Previous History Of Atrial Fibrillation Research Articles

Investigating the relationship between the leukocyte telomere length and the incidence of atrial fibrillation: a study utilizing data from the UK Biobank

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia linked to a higher risk of stroke, heart failure, and death. Telomeres are DNA-protein complexes located at the end of chromosomes, and telomere length is known to be associated with biological aging and age-related disease. However, the relationship between leukocyte telomere length (LTL) and AF has been inconsistent in the literature. This study aims to clarify the relationship between LTL and AF risk using UK Biobank data and to examine the link between AF and both biological and chronological aging. Methods The UK Biobank cohort of 502,421 participants aged 40-70 was recruited across 22 UK centers from 2006-2010. After excluding i) missing values (n=32,219), ii) previous AF history (n=6,746) and iii) valvular heart disease (n=3,204), a total of 460,252 participants without AF (median age, 58.0 [interquartile range (IQR), 50.0–64.0] years; 208,543 [45.3%] male) were included. Participants were categorized into four groups based on the LTL, as determined by the adjusted T/S ratio from whole blood test. To investigate the intermediate phenotype prior to the onset of atrial fibrillation, we compared each group with LA maximum volume, LA minimum volume, LA stroke volume, and LA ejection fraction. Throughout the follow-up period, new-onset atrial fibrillation was documented. Survival analysis was conducted using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional regression analysis. Results Among 460,252 participants without AF, the new-onset AF group had more comorbidities and lower mean LTL. Groups with shorter LTL tend to be older, and new-onset AF is more prevalent in these groups. Additionally, the incidence of comorbidities is generally higher in the groups with shorter LTL. It was observed that as the LTL shortens, the LA stroke volume decreases. The Kaplan-Meier curve demonstrated that shorter LTL correlated with increased new-onset AF risk. (Log-rank P < 0.001) However, upon examination through a multivariable univariate Cox proportional regression analysis, telomere length did not show as an independent risk factor for new-onset AF. (aHR 1.00, 95% CI 1.00-1.00, P=0.099, Adjusted T/S ratio). Conclusion Even though the incidence of AF increased as LTL shortened, there was no relationship between LTL and new-onset AF when the covariate was adjusted.

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<0.0001), showed a normal left ventricular function more often (47.9% vs 40.2%, p<0.0001) and had fewer histories of coronary artery disease (CAD) (30.2% vs 48.0%, p<0.0001) and fewer histories of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) (9.0% vs 14.0%, p<0.0001). In contrast they had higher heart rates (113 bpm vs 84 bpm, p<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<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.

Impact of an expanded reimbursement policy on utilization of implantable loop recorders in patients with cryptogenic stroke in Korea.

The reimbursement policy for cryptogenic stroke (CS) was expanded in November 2018 from recurrent strokes to the first stroke episode. No reports have demonstrated whether this policy change has affected trends in implantable loop recorder (ILR) utilization. We identified patients who received an ILR implant using the Korea Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database between July 2016 and October 2021. Patients meeting all the following criteria were considered to have CS indication: 1) prior stroke history, 2) no previous history of atrial fibrillation or flutter (AF/AFL), and 3) no maintenance of oral anticoagulant for ≥4 weeks within a year before ILR implant. AF/AFL diagnosed within 3 years after ILR implant or before ILR removal was considered ILR-driven. Among 3,056 patients, 1,001 (32.8%) had CS indications. The total ILR implant number gradually increased for both CS and non-CS indications and the number of CS indication significantly increased after implementing the expanded reimbursement policy. The detection rate for AF/AFL was 26.3% in CS patients over 3 years, which was significantly higher in patients implanted with an ILR within 2 months after stroke than those implanted later. The expanded coverage policy for CS had a significant impact on the number of ILR implantation for CS indication. The diagnostic yield of ILR for AF/AFL detection seems better when ILR is implanted within 2 months than later. Further investigation is needed to demonstrate other clinical benefits and the optimal ILR implantation timing.

The association between low serum calcium level and new-onset atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting.

This study aims to investigate the relationship between serum calcium (SC) levels and the incidence of postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery. This retrospective, observational cohort study consecutively enrolled patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting in Beijing Anzhen Hospital from January 2018 to December 2021. Patients with a previous history of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter or requiring concomitant cardiac surgery were excluded. A logistic regression model was used to determine predictors of POAF. Multivariable adjustment, inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity score matching were used to adjust for confounders. Moreover, we conducted univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses on preoperative and postoperative SC and ionized SC levels. The analysis encompassed 12 293 patients. The POAF rate was significantly higher in patients with low SC level than those without (1379 [33.9%] vs 2375 [28.9%], P < 0.001). Low SC level was associated with an increased odds ratio of POAF (odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.27 [1.18-1.37], P < 0.001). Inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity score matching analyses confirmed the results. The increased POAF rate in low SC level group still existed among subgroup analysis based on different age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, CHA2DS2-VASc and magnesium. Low SC level indicates elevated POAF risk in patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery even after the adjustment for age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, echocardiographic parameters and laboratory markers.

Nurse-driven protocol for the management and follow-up of subclinical atrial fibrillation episodes in pacemaker patients

Abstract Background Atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) compatible with atrial fibrillation (AF) detected in pacemakers are associated with an increased risk of stroke. Nurses trained in pacemaker (PM) follow-up can detect theses AHREs during patient’ scheduled visits and provide the best care option to the patients. Purpose To evaluate a nurse protocol applied in these patients focused on a) identifying those with AHREs and taking into account the timing of these events and their duration, and b) provide the best care and follow-up then after. Methods and Results To create our protocol, we evaluated PM patients without a previous history of AF and classified the incidence of AHREs into 3 groups: &amp;gt;5 minutes to 24 hours; &amp;gt;24 hours and patients who are in clinical AF (documented on ECG) at the time of the visit. We also evaluate the time elapsed since PM implantation (£ 3 months vs &amp;gt; 3 months) and the type of atrial electrode fixation (active vs passive). In a prior study we analyzed 110 patients with AHREs &amp;gt;5 minutes and &amp;lt;24 hours (56% male, age 75 ± 9 years, mean CHA2DS2VACS scores of 3.5 ± 1.5). After 24 ± 9 months, 40 patients (36.4%) presented AHREs, and CT images showed ischemic brain lesions in 26 of them (23.6%). The presence of AHREs at 3 months was more frequent in patients with a recent MP implantation (17% vs 4.5%) and with a significant relationship with the type of active fixation of the electrode. The presence of ischemic lesions on CT was related to the detection of AHREs during follow-up, but not with AHREs in the first 3 months. Therefore, we designed a dedicated protocol for follow-up in these patients (AHREs &amp;gt;5 minutes and &amp;lt;24 hours) after PM implantation with repetitive follow-up visits assessing the evolution of AHREs. In cases of &amp;gt;24 hours and those with ECG documented AF, Guidelines recommendations were followed. Conclusions In PM patients, the presence of AHREs might be related to serious clinical complications. On the other hand, AHREs occur regularly during the first 3 months after PM implantation, maybe related to the procedure itself and the use of active fixation for the atrial lead. AHREs in this period may not be related to major complications and individual risk should be carefully assessed before starting anticoagulation. A dedicated protocol for closer follow-up visits in these patients might help to identify those at risk and prevent clinical events.

The importance of active rhythm monitoring in patients with renal infarction: Korean national health insurance registry

Abstract Background/Introduction Several studies reported that approximately 50% of renal infraction (RI) is caused by cardioembolic disease, particularly associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, in the Korean national health insurance database (NHIS), from 2013 to 2019, the prevalence of AF in patients with RI was only 15%. So, we aimed to analyze the incidence of newly developed AF in RI patients. Method This nationwide population-based retrospective cohort study included 5,200 patients with RI using the NHIS database from 2002 to 2012. We analyzed the incidence rate of AF during 12 months among the patients without previous history of AF. We selected clinical events after three months of RI diagnosis to exclude cases diagnosed by initial screening or with previously missed diagnosis of AF. The definition of RI, AF, and comorbidities use the ICD-10-CM codes. Result During the total follow-up period (median 2.5 years, interquartile range 1.04-4.25), AF occurred in 19.1% of RI patients (n=993). Most cases (n=837, 16.1%) occurred within a year, and the incidence of AF was 3.965 per 10,000 person-year. Patients with newly developed AF had a higher proportion of older age than those without AF (64.1 vs. 57.3 years, P&amp;lt;0.001). The prevalence of comorbidities, including hypertension (HTN), ischemic heart disease (IHD), and heart failure (HF), was higher in those with AF. The independent predictors of AF were age (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.05, 95% CI 1.04-1.05, P&amp;lt;0.001), male (aHR 1.26, 95% CI 1.09-1.45, P=0.002), body mass index (BMI) (aHR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.06, P &amp;lt;0.001), current smoker (aHR 1.20, 95% CI 1.03-1.40, P =0.023), IHD (aHR 1.20, 95% CI 1.00-1.45, P =0.050) and HF (aHR 1.70, 95% CI 1.25-2.33, P =0.001). Additionally, the incidence of all-cause death was 14.264 per 10,000 person-year during the follow-up period. Conclusion Even if AF is not diagnosed in the initial screening after diagnosis of RI, the physician should consider active rhythm monitoring to detect subclinical AF for optimal management in these patients. Especially it might be helpful to reduce the burden of recurrent embolic events in those with risk factors, such as older age, male, higher BMI, current smoker, IHD, or HF.Cox regression analysisAtrial fibrillation cumulative incidence

Abstract 14789: Atrial Anatomical Variations Between Atrial Fibrillation Patients Compared to Other Subjects Without Atrial Fibrillation

Introduction: In this study, we evaluated the anatomical atrial variations using gated cardiac computed tomography (CCT) between patients with and without atrial fibrillation (AF). Hypothesis: The aim of the study is to evaluate if there are specific anatomical characteristics that are associated with poor clinical outcomes following ablation in patients with AF. Methods: We retrospectively included 502 CCT scans of patients with AF prior to their pulmonary vein isolation procedure, and 1058 CCT scans of patients without AF performed to evaluate pulmonary vein anatomy and to rule out coronary artery disease between 2014 to 2017. Anatomical variations of the atria and interatrial septum included the Bachman bundle shunt (BBS - defined as a vascular channel crossing between the atria through the Bachman bundle), and atrial diverticulae. Results: Five-hundred and two patients with AF were older (67±14 vs. 63±13 years, P = 0.039), had a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus (24.4% vs 14.7%, p = 0.006), and cerebrovascular disease (3.8% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.044) compared to patients without AF. Furthermore, CCTs analysis of AF patients demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence of BBS: (11% vs 4.1%, p &lt;0.0001, left atrial diverticula (19% vs 7.7%), p &lt;0.0001, and right atrial diverticula (9.8% vs 2.1%), P &lt;0.0001 compared to patients without AF. Conclusions: This study is the first to analyze BBS and atrial diverticular prevalence in patients using CCT. We found that patients with AF are associated with a higher prevalence of structural atrial abnormalities including BBS, left and right atrial diverticula in comparison to individuals with no previous history of AF. Whether these anatomical variations influence AF incidence or AF recurrence after catheter ablation is yet to be determined.

Abstract 15292: The Association Between High Serum Uric Acid Level and New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Introduction: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is a common complication of cardiac surgery, increasing stroke risk, morbidity, and mortality. At present, the specific pathogenesis of POAF remains to be fully elucidated. Though the potential impact of uric acid on atrial fibrillation has been suggested, the relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) levels and POAF in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) remains unclear. Hypothesis: This study investigates the potential association between SUA levels and the incidence of POAF in patients who have undergone CABG. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational cohort study (NCT05888168) that included 16,682 patients who underwent CABG at Beijing Anzhen Hospital from January 2018 to December 2021. Patients with a previous history of atrial fibrillation or requiring concomitant cardiac surgery were excluded. A cox regression model was used to determine predictors of POAF, with confounding variables adjusted via multivariable adjustment, inverse probability of treatment weighting, and propensity score matching. Results: The analysis encompassed 12,293 patients. SUA level values were 328 [273.6, 389.9] μmol/L and high SUA level (≥370μmol/L) were found in 3919 (31.88%) patients. The incidence of POAF was significantly higher in patients with high SUA level compared to those without (32.69% versus 29.53%, P&lt;0.001). High SUA level was associated with an increased hazard ratio (HR) of POAF (HR [95%CI]: 1.21 [1.13-1.30]). These results were confirmed through inverse probability of treatment weighting and propensity score matching analyses. Conclusions: High SUA level is predictive of POAF in CABG patients, even after adjusting for age, sex, cardiovascular risk factors, medical therapy, echocardiographic parameters, and laboratory markers.

Abstract 16215: Reduced Left Atrial Strain and Risk of Ischemic Stroke in Patients With Normal Sinus Rhythm: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: Abnormalities in the left atrium have been linked to a higher risk of ischemic cerebrovascular events. Left atrial (LA) strain analysis can identify LA dysfunction, even in patients with normal LA volumes. However, the precise association between LA strain and the occurrence of ischemic stroke in individuals who are in normal sinus rhythm (NSR) is not well established. Hypothesis: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the relationship between reduced LA strain and the risk of ischemic stroke in patients with NSR. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central for studies that examined our clinical question. Two reviewers independently performed study selection, data extraction, and assessment of bias. Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.4.1. Heterogeneity was assessed with I2 statistics. We calculated pooled multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) under a random effects model. Results: We included 8,632 patients from 4 cohort studies, of which 3 were prospective. The mean follow-up ranged from 2.5 years to 10.9 years. The mean age ranged from 68.8 to 75.2 years. All results were obtained through multivariable-adjusted analysis, which includes adjusting for LA size and occurrence of new-onset atrial fibrillation during follow-up. The incidence of ischemic stroke was significantly increased in patients with reduced reservoir strain (HR 1.53; 95% CI 1.09-2.15; p=0.01; Figure 1) and conduit strain (HR 1.39; 95% CI 1.16-1.59; p &lt; 0.001). Reduced contractile strain was not predictive of stroke incidence (HR 1.94; 95% CI 0.96-3.93; p=0.07). Conclusions: Our findings indicate an independent association of reduced LA strain with an increased incidence of ischemic stroke in patients without a previous history of atrial fibrillation. Future studies are warranted to evaluate the role of LA strain as part of a comprehensive risk stratification for stroke.

Correlation between Serum Myosin Light Chain 4 Levels and Recurrence after Radiofrequency Ablation in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia that is harmful to human health. This study aims to explore the relationship between myosin light chain 4 (MYL4) and AF recurrence after radiofrequency ablation (RFA). Patients with AF (n = 85) were enrolled, and healthy subjects (n = 90) with normal sinus rhythm and no previous history of AF were selected as controls. The serum levels of MYL4, transforming growth factor (TGF) -β1, and procollagen type-I C-terminal propeptide (PICP) were determined. The correlation between MYL4 and atrial fibrosis remodeling indicators (TGF-β1/PICP) and left atrial diameter (LAD) was analyzed. The influence of MYL4 on AF recurrence after RFA was evaluated, and the independent correlation between them was assessed. Patients with AF and the controls showed no significant differences in age, gender, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, left ventricular ejection fraction, triglycerides, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, white blood cell count, neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio, brain natriuretic peptide, and history of smoking, drinking, hypertension, and diabetes (P > 0.05), but with increased LAD in patients with AF (P < 0.01). Serum MYL4 level was reduced in patients with AF (0.6 ± 0.2) compared with that of controls (0.1 ± 0.6) (P < 0.01), and it was negatively correlated with TGF-β1, PICP, and LAD (r = -0.2389, P < 0.05; r = -0.5174, P < 0.01; r = -0.3191; P < 0.01). Low levels of MYL4 increased the risk of AF recurrence after RFA (χ2 = 16.64; P < 0.0001). A low MYL4 level in patients with AF showed a poorer prognosis. Serum MYL4 level and AF type were independent risk factors affecting AF recurrence after RFA.

Impact of pulmonary vein anatomy and left atrial size on postoperative atrial fibrillation after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) after esophagectomy and pre-existing cardiac substrate. We retrospectively analyzed 212 consecutive patients from between July 2010 and December 2022 who were scheduled to undergo esophagectomy for esophageal cancer without previous history of atrial fibrillation. All the patients underwent both echocardiography and contrast-enhanced multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT). POAF occurred in 49 patients (23.1%). Multivariable logistic analysis demonstrated that independent predictors for POAF were age [OR; 1.06 (1.01-1.10), P < 0.01), three-field lymph node dissection [OR; 2.55 (1.25-5.23), P < 0.01), left atrial dilatation (> 35mm) assessment by echocardiography [OR; 3.05 (1.49-6.25), P < 0.01) and common left pulmonary vein [OR; 3.03 (1.44-6.39), P < 0.01). The correlation coefficient was high for left atrial dimensions assessed by echocardiography and MDCT (r = 0.91, P < 0.01). Combination of left atrial dilatation by echocardiography and common left pulmonary vein had high odds ratio [OR; 8.10 (2.62-25.96), P < 0.01). Instead of echocardiographic assessment, combination of left atrial enlargement (> 35mm) assessed by MDCT and common left pulmonary vein also showed high odds ratio for POAF [OR; 11.23 [2.19-57.63], P < 0.01). Incidence of POAF after esophagectomy was related to both left atrial enlargement and common left pulmonary vein assessed by preoperative MDCT. Additional analysis of atrial size and pulmonary vein variation would facilitate preoperative assessment of the risk of POAF, but future studies must ascertain therapeutic strategy.

The completeness of the left atrial appendage amputation during routine cardiac surgery

BackgroundLeft atrial appendage (LAA) is the origin of most heart thrombi which can lead to stroke or other cerebrovascular event in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). This study aimed to prove safety and low complication rate of surgical LAA amputation using cut and sew technique with control of its effectiveness.Methods303 patients who have undergone selective LAA amputation were enrolled in the study in a period from 10/17 to 08/20. The LAA amputation was performed concomitant to routine cardiac surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass with cardiac arrest with or without previous history of AF. The operative and clinical data were evaluated. Extent of LAA amputation was examined intraoperatively by transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Six months in follow up, the patients were controlled regarding clinical status and episodes of strokes.ResultsAverage age of study population was 69.9 ± 19.2 and 81.9% of patients were male. In only three patients was residual stump after LAA amputation larger than 1 cm with average stump size 0.28 ± 0.34 cm. 3 patients (1%) developed postoperative bleeding. Postoperatively 77 (25.4%) patients developed postoperative AF (POAF), of which 29 (9.6%) still had AF at discharge. On 6 months follow up only 5 patients had NYHA class III and 1 NYHA class IV. Seven patients reported with leg oedema and no patient experienced any cerebrovascular event in early postoperative follow up.ConclusionLAA amputation can be performed safely and completely leaving minimal to no LAA residual stump.

Outcomes of ischemic stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) have higher risk of ischemic stroke. Purpose We investigated whether AF patients experiencing an ischemic stroke have worse outcomes. Methods AF patients admitted to the stroke unit from 2018 to 2021 were included. The NIHSS and the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score were calculated at the admission and at discharge. The neurological improvement was calculated as delta NIHSS (NIHSS at admission - NIHSS at discharge =Δdis). Results Six-hundred patients (45% men), mean age 69±13 years. Of these 75 had previous history of atrial fibrillation (AF) and 86 had AF during the hospitalization (46 both). Overall 115 had one of the two. Patients with AF had higher NIHSSad (14.5±7 vs 9.6±7; p&amp;lt;0.001) and NIHSS24 (10.4±8 vs 7.2±7; p&amp;lt;0.001) than patients without, however the neurological improvement was greater (Δdis -8.4±8 vs -5.1±6; p=0.004), indeed the NIHSSdis was similar (5.6±7 vs 4.1±6; p=0.1). Patients with AF also had a more impaired mRS before the ischemic event and at discharge (1.34±1.3 vs 0.58±1.1, p&amp;lt;0.001; 2.6±1.7 vs 1.8±1.9, p=0.005). Amongst AF patients with CHADVASC³2 in men and ³3 in women, 36% of them were taking antiplatelet therapy, 35% anticoagulants and 29% didn’t take any therapy. Of interest, no differences in the NIHSSad nor in the NIHSSdis were found between them and neither in the Δdis. As for the treatment of AF patients, patients who underwent to mechanical thrombectomy (MT) had higher NIHSSad (17± 5) compared to patients receiving intravenous thrombolysis (IV) or nothing (11± 7 and 12± 8) (p&amp;lt;0.001). The NIHSSdis was similar between the three groups however the Δdis was significantly higher in patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy (-12.5±6 vs 3.6±4; vs 3.1±8; p=0.003 and p&amp;lt;0.001 respectively). Conclusions Patients with AF experience more severe stroke, however the neurological recovery is greater than in patients without the arrhythmia. The treatment with antiplatelets or anticoagulants before the event does not reduce the severity of the stroke and does not influence the improvement of the NIHSS at discharge. The mechanical thrombectomy is more effective in reducing the neurological impairment.

Post-thrombolysis early neurological deterioration occurs with or without hemorrhagic transformation in acute cerebral infarction: risk factors, prediction model and prognosis

ObjectivesEarly neurological deterioration (END) after ischemic stroke is a severe clinical event and can be caused by hemorrhagic and ischemic injury. We studied the difference between the risk factors of END occurs with or without hemorrhagic transformation after intravenous thrombolysis. Materials and methodsConsecutive cerebral infarction patients who underwent intravenous thrombolysis from 2017 to 2020 in our hospital were retrospectively recruited. END was defined as a ≥2 points increase on 24-h National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score after therapy compared with the best neurological status after thrombolysis and divided into two types based on the computed tomography (CT): symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (ENDh) and non-hemorrhagic factors (ENDn). Potential risk factors of ENDh and ENDn were assessed by multiple logistic regression and applied to establish the prediction model. ResultsA total of 195 patients were included. In multivariate analysis, the previous history of cerebral infarction (odds ratio [OR],15.19; 95% confidence interval [CI],1.43–161.17; P = 0.025), previous history of atrial fibrillation (OR,8.43; 95%CI,1.09–65.44; P = 0.043), higher baseline NIHSS score (OR,1.19; 95%CI,1.03–1.39; P = 0.022) and higher alanine transferase level (OR,1.05; 95%CI, 1.01–1.10; P = 0.016) were independently associated with ENDh. While higher systolic blood pressure (OR,1.03; 95%CI,1.01–1.05; P = 0.004), higher baseline NIHSS score (OR,1.13; 95%CI,2.86–27.43; P < 0.000) and large artery occlusion (OR,8.85, 95%CI,2.86–27.43; P < 0.000) were independent risk factors of ENDn. The prediction model showed good specificity and sensitivity in predicting the risk of ENDn. ConclusionsThere are differences between the major contributors to ENDh and ENDn, while a severe stroke can increase the occurrence of both sides.

Left atrial size predicts outcome in severe but asymptomatic mitral regurgitation

Patients with severe asymptomatic primary mitral regurgitation (MR) can be safely managed with an active surveillance strategy. Left atrial (LA) size is affected by MR severity, left ventricular function and is also associated with the risk of atrial fibrillation and may be an integrative parameter for risk stratification. The present study sought to determine the predictive value of LA size in a large series of asymptomatic patients with severe MR. 280 consecutive patients (88 female, median age 58 years) with severe primary MR and no guideline-based indications for surgery were included in a follow-up program until criteria for mitral surgery were reached. Event-free survival was determined and potential predictors of outcome were assessed. Survival free of any indication for surgery was 78% at 2 years, 52% at 6 years, 35% at 10 years and 19% at 15 years, respectively. Left atrial (LA) diameter was the strongest independent echocardiographic predictor of event-free survival with incremental predictive value for the thresholds of 50, 60 and 70 mm, respectively. In a multivariable analysis that encompassed age at baseline, previous history of atrial fibrillation, left ventricular end systolic diameter), LA diameter, sPAP > 50 mmHg and year of inclusion, LA diameter was the strongest independent echocardiographic predictor of event-free survival (adjusted HR = 1.039, p < 0.001). LA size is a simple and reproducible predictor of outcome in asymptomatic severe primary MR. In particular, it may help to identify patients who may benefit from early elective valve surgery in heart valve centers of excellence.

Multiparametric identification of subclinical atrial fibrillation after an embolic stroke of undetermined source.

Subclinical atrial fibrillation (SCAF) may represent a cause of embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) and its detection has important implications for secondary prevention with anticoagulation. Indications to implantable cardiac monitors (ICM) include SCAF detection. The aims of this study were to (1) evaluate the frequency of ICM-detected SCAF; (2) determine predictors of SCAF; and (3) identify patients who would benefit most from ICM implantation. Between February 2017 and November 2020, all consecutive patients referred for ICM implantation after a diagnosis of ESUS and without previous history of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter were included in this study. SCAF was diagnosed if the ICM electrogram demonstrated an episode of irregularly irregular rhythm without distinct P waves lasting > 2min. We enrolled 109 patients (age 66, SD = 13years; 36% females). During a median follow-up of 19.2 (IQR 11.0-27.5) months, SCAF episodes were detected in 36 (33%) patients. Only abnormal P wave terminal force in lead V1, left atrial end-systolic indexed volume > 34ml/m2, and BMI > 25kg/m2 were independently associated with an increased risk of SCAF (HR 2.44, 95% CI 1.14-5.21, p = 0.021; HR 2.39, 95% CI 1.11-5.13, p = 0.026; and HR 2.64, 95% CI 1.06-6.49, p = 0.036 respectively). The ROC curve showed that the presence of all three parameters had the best accuracy (74%) to predict SCAF detection (sensitivity 39%, specificity 91%). A multiparametric evaluation has the best accuracy to predict SCAF in ESUS patients and may help identifying those who would benefit most from ICM.

Abstract 11477: Assessing New Onset of Atrial Arrhythmia in Patients Undergoing Alcohol Septal Ablation for Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy

Introduction: Alcohol septal ablation (ASA) is an effective percutaneous procedure used to treat refractory hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM). ASA relieves left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction by creating a targeted infarction in the septal muscle. Diastolic dysfunction and mitral regurgitation are responsible for increased left atrial pressure which contributes to left atrial ectopy. We seek to assess the incidence of atrial arrhythmias post-ASA and identify predictors to risk stratify these patients. Methods: Using a patient database maintained internally, 144 consecutive patients who underwent ASA for HOCM between March 2017 and February of 2022 at MUSC were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were selected based on the need for cardiac event monitoring after ASA. Patients were retrospectively analyzed for a previous history of atrial fibrillation (AF) as well as a new onset of AF after ASA. SPSS statistics was used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 31 patients met final inclusion criteria. During the monitored time, seven patients (22.58%) developed a new onset of AF after ASA. Patients who developed AF post-ASA were found to have a statistically higher left atrial end-systolic volume index (LAESVi, mL/m 2 ) and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP, mmHg) (59.96 ± 8.93, 34.33 ± 11.54) when compared to those who did not develop AF (41.13 ± 13.93, 23.33 ± 9.06 (p=0.0003, p=0.0331)). Conclusions: In this high-risk proportion of patients who required cardiac monitoring post-ASA, there is a higher-than-expected risk for new onset of AF. The left atrial size and left ventricular filling pressures before ablation were the only significant predictors for development of atrial arrhythmias after ASA. Longer-term evaluation will be able to address if the expected reduction in atrial size and LVOT gradient after ASA will reduce the overall long-term burden of atrial arrhythmias.

Risk Factors for Chronic Atrial Fibrillation Development After Esophagectomy for Esophageal Cancer

BackgroundThis study investigates the prognosis of patients with postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF), aiming to elucidate predictors of occurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the chronic phase after esophagectomy. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 415 consecutive patients between July 2010 and December 2021 who were scheduled to undergo esophagectomy for esophageal cancer and had no previous history of AF. ResultsPOAF occurred in 73 patients (18%). Their ages were higher than those without POAF (72 [66–77] vs 68 [62–75], P < 0.01). Three-field lymph node dissection was more frequent in patients with POAF (63% vs 50%, P = 0.04). Overall survival rates were not significantly different between those with and without POAF in patients with stage III/IV cancer (P = 0.37), but overall survival rate of patients with POAF was lower than in those without POAF in stage I/II cancer (P = 0.03). Seventeen patients (4.1%) had recurrence of AF or new onset 31 days after esophagectomy. POAF was the only independent predictor of AF development in the chronic phase (HR: 4.09, 95%CI: [1.42–11.74], P = 0.01). AF development in the chronic phase was observed in 8 patients (11.0%) with and 9 patients (2.6%) without POAF (P < 0.01). AF development rates were not significantly different in patients with stage III/IV cancer (P = 0.05), but there was significant difference in patients with stage I/II cancer (P < 0.01). ConclusionThe occurrence of POAF after esophagectomy is related with future development of AF and overall survival prognosis. Future studies must ascertain optimal therapeutic strategy.

Type III collagen formation is significantly associated with risk of outcome in HFpEF patients but loses its significant association with underlying AF

Abstract Introduction Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is the most common type of heart failure, associated with high morbidity and mortality. Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been associated with structural remodelling and fibrosis and can coexist with HFpEF. Type III collagen is the second most abundant collagen in the heart wall and has been associated with cardiac fibrosis. It has been previously shown that type III collagen formation, measured by PRO-C3, is prognostic for all-cause mortality in HFpEF. Purpose In this study, we aimed at investigating if the prognostic power of PRO-C3 in relation to all-cause mortality would be affected by underlying AF in HFpEF patients. Methods The analysis included 166 individuals with hypertensive HFpEF. The patients were classified in three groups according to NYHA classification, 43.2% in NYHA Class II, 52.5% NYHA Class III and 2.5% NYHA Class IV. A previous history of AF was present in 53.4% of the patients. Cardiac function was assessed by echocardiography and standard clinical measures. Type III collagen formation was evaluated by means of ELISA with the biomarker PRO-C3, which targets the released N-terminal pro-peptide of type III collagen. Results Levels of PRO-C3 were significantly elevated in HFpEF patients with AF (p=0.0063). PRO-C3 was significantly predictive of all-cause mortality in HFpEF patients (AUC=0.643, p=0.0053), but lost its significant association when factoring in AF (AUC=0.581, p=0.235). There was an increased risk of all-cause mortality (p=0.0089) but not statistically significant differences in HFpEF patients with AF (p=0.178) with increasing tertiles of PRO-C3. Conclusions Type III collagen formation as measured by PRO-C3, was increased in patients with HFpEF and previously diagnosed AF. However, while PRO-C3 can be predictive of all-cause mortality in HFpEF patients, it lacks predicting ability when AF is considered. The presented data suggest a potential role of increased type III collagen formation in HFpEF patients with adverse outcomes, which is consistent with the presence of increased fibrosis, and can potentially be used as a tool of risk stratification. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Nordic Bioscience A/S

Impact of surgical left atrial appendage closure during coronary bypass on clinical outcomes and readmissions

Abstract Background Whether surgical left atrial appendage closure (sLAAC) during coronary artery bypass (CABG)surgery improves post-operative outcome including stroke and atrial fibrillation (AF) occurrence is largely unknown. Objective To analyze the impact of concomitant sLAAC during CABG in terms of outcomes and readmissions over the following year. Methods We analyzed the Nationwide Readmissions Database (2016–2019) using ICD-10 codes to identify hospitalizations for CABG. Patients were subcategorized based on whether sLAAC was performed or not. Among patients who survived their index admission, we employed propensity matching (1:3) to adjust for age, sex, comorbidities, CHA2DS2-VASc scores, previous AF history, heart failure and hospital characteristics. Primary outcomes included unplanned AF and stroke-related readmissions at 1 year. Results A total of 58,311 patients with CABG and sLAAC were identified with 175,940 propensity matched controls. Patients undergoing sLAAC were older with higher CHA2DS2-VASc scores and comorbidity burdens. Confounders were well balanced following propensity matching. Over a mean follow-up of 152 days, sLAAC was associated with higher risk of readmission due to AF at one year (HR 1.71 [1.49–1.96] p&amp;lt;0.001). This association is independent of previous AF history. Lower rates of stroke-related readmission was associated with perfomance of sLAAC (HR 0.80 (0.65–0.97) p=0.026), however the association was not observed when accounting for AF history. Conclusion CABG with concomitant sLAAC is maybe associated with lower stroke risk at the cost of higher risk of AF readmissions. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.