Severe Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction Research Articles

Significance of mitral L wave to predict late recurrence of atrial fibrillation after radiofrequency catheter ablation

Abstract Background Mitral L wave, prominent mid-diastolic filling wave in echocardiographic examinations, is associated with severe left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, and that has been reported to predict recurrent atrial fibrillation (AF) after cardioversion. However, association between mitral L wave and the outcome of AF after radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) has not been established. Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the predictive value of mitral L wave on AF recurrence after RFCA. Methods 250 patients including 164 paroxysmal AF (65.6%) and 86 non-paroxysmal AF (34.4%) who received RFCA in single center from January 2015 to December 2016 were enrolled consecutively. Echocardiographic examinations before RFCA were recorded, and the mitral L wave was defined as a distinct mid-diastolic flow velocity with a peak velocity ≥20 cm/s following the E wave. Systematic follow-up was conducted after RFCA. Univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to determine the factors predicting late recurrence of AF (LRAF) which means AF recurrence after 3 months. Enrolled patients were divided into groups with the L wave (L-group; n=57) or without the L wave (NL-group; n=193) based on the findings of echocardiographic examinations. Results During a follow-up of 35.0±17.6 months, the ratio of LRAF in the L-group was significantly higher than that in the NL-group (32 (56.1%) vs. 41 (21.2%), Hazard ratio [HR]: 3.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.33 - 5.42, p<0.001). Among the clinical factors, presence of mitral L wave, BNP value, non-paroxysmal AF and moderate-severe mitral regurgitation were related to LRAF. A multivariate analysis using a Cox proportional hazard model found that presence of mitral L wave (HR: 2.67, 95% CI: 1.30 - 5.48, p=0.007) was significantly associated with LRAF. Conclusion This study revealed that mitral L wave predicts late recurrence of AF after RFCA. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Effect of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors on left ventricular mass and left atrial volume indices assessed either by cardiovascular magnetic resonance or transthoracic echocardiography

Abstract Background Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors are a novel class of antidiabetic regimens linked with a significant reduction in the risk for surrogate cardiovascular and renal outcomes. Specific patient populations, for example subjects with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), also benefit from this drug class, regardless the presence of T2DM. Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy is a strong, independent predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality; left atrial volume index (LAVI), an indicator of severity of LV diastolic dysfunction and filling properties, has been shown to predict “hard” cardiovascular outcomes among patients with T2DM, while it might predict the recovery of left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with HFrEF. Purpose We sought to determine the effect of SGLT-2 inhibitors on the above indices, in order to evaluate additional cardioprotective mechanisms of this drug class. Methods We searched 2 major electronic databases (PubMed and Cochrane/CENTRAL) along with grey literature sources for parallel-group RCTs investigating the effect of SGLT-2 inhibitors compared to placebo or active control on LV mass, LV mass index (LVMI) and LAVI, evaluated either by TTE or CMR, on adult patients regardless the presence of T2DM or HF. Results After screening the potentially eligible records, 9 studies were included in our analysis with a total of 843 patients. Treatment with SGLT-2 inhibitors compared to placebo or active control leads to a statistically significant decrease in LV mass by 6.01 g (95% CI −11.33 to −0.69, I2=76%) (Figure 1a). A significant decrease in LVMI by 2.61 g/m2 was observed (MD=−2.61, 95% CI −4.94 to −0.29, I2=65%) (Figure 1b). Of note, the effect on LAVI was marginally non-significant (MD=−1.51 ml/m2, 95% CI −3.05 to 0.03, I2=0%) (Figure 1c). Subgroup analysis for patients with HFrEF demonstrated a non-significant reduction in LV mass (MD=−11.72 g, 95% CI −30.61 to 7.16, I2=90%) and in LVMI (MD=−6.28 g/m2, 95% CI −30.61 to 0.25, I2=80%) (Figure 2a and 2b). Conclusions SGLT-2 inhibitors demonstrate a clear benefit on LV mass and LVMI, regardless of diabetes status, while a marginally non-significant effect is observed on LAVI. These results provide further insights into the cardioprotective mechanisms mediated by this drug class, besides those already established. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1Figure 2

Cardiac magnetic resonance parametric mapping can detect early cardiac involvement of patients with systemic sclerosis

Abstract Background Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is divided into two subtypes, diffuse and limited cutaneous SSc (dcSSc and lcSSc). The dcSSc subtype has more severe internal organ fibrosis than lcSSc. It is unclear whether cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) parametric mapping can detect early cardiac involvement in these two subtypes. Purpose To detect cardiac involvement and evaluate differences between the two subtypes, we examined CMR parametric mapping. Methods 57 consecutive SSc patients (27 dcSSc and 30 lcSSc) who visited our hospital from July 2018 to February 2021 and underwent CMR at 3.0T (Philips) were included. We analyzed myocardial damage using CMR parametric mapping and compared it with clinical data. Results Mean disease durations of dcSSc and lcSSc were 4.0±6.5 years and 4.4±8.3 years, respectively. Although there were no significant differences in LVEF (56.8±8.8 vs 59.6±7.2), the left and right atrial volume index were significantly larger in dcSSc compared with lcSSc (all p<0.05). Focal fibrosis as evaluated by late gadolinium enhancement was found in 9 SSc patients (15.7%) and 4 patients had pulmonary hypertension. DcSSc patients had significantly higher mid-ventricular native T1 (1350.8±73.2 vs 1312.9±52.1, p=0.029) and postcontrast T1 values (640.4±59.4 vs 604.6±42.5, p=0.015) as compared to lcSSc, although there were no significant differences in ECV and T2 values. Native T1 values in mid-ventricular septum were positively correlated with E/e' ratio of echocardiography in overall SSc patients and dcSSc patients but not in lcSSc patients (r=0.320, p=0.021; r=0.505, p=0.010; r=0.195, p=0.329). Native T1 values in mid-ventricular septum were also positively correlated with plasma levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in overall SSc patients and dcSSc patients but not in lcSSc patients (r=0.353, p=0.008; r=0.484, p=0.011; r=0.113, p=0.559).The multiple regression analysis considering age and sex revealed that mid-ventricular septum native T1 was the independent predictor of E/e' in SSc patients (β=0.306, p=0.026), and dcSSc patients (β=0.553, p=0.007) but not in lcSSc patients (β=−0.282, p=0.105). The ROC curve for predicting E/e'≥14, cut-off value of native T1 in mid-ventricular septum was ≥1348.5msec (AUC 0.762; 95% CI 0.571–0.953; sensitivity 80.0%; specificity 68.1%). BNP was significantly higher in patients with native T1≥1348.5 msec compared with native T1<1348.5 (102.8±112.8 vs 45.7±55.7; p=0.014). The interobserver variability of CMR parametric mapping values was excellent in this study. Conclusion DcSSc patients showed higher native T1 and larger left and right atrial volume index of CMR than lcSSc patients, suggesting that DcSSc patients had more severe myocardial involvement and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction than lcSSc patients. Early detection of the high native T1 may predict the occurrence of cardiovascular events in the future. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Correlation between native T1 and BNPCorrelation between native T1 and E/e'

Determination of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction using machine learning methods

Abstract Introduction Nowadays, more than 50% of new cases of heart failure (HF) are due to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Diastolic dysfunction of left ventricular underlies the development of HFpEF. Determination of diastolic function can be determinated using echocardiographic examination but not as a method of screening. Purpose Create a Machine Learning model to determinate severe (2nd or 3rd degrees) left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LV DD) using single channel ECG. Methods The study prospectively included 375 patients aged between 18 and 88 years. Each of them underwent an assessment of left ventricular diastolic function using echocardiography based on ASE/EACVI guidelines and standard 2016. ECG was registered in I standard lead for 3 minutes. Then a spectral analysis of the ECG was performed using a wavelet transform based on the Fourier transform. Prediction of LV DD was implemented based on different machine learning methods. Results Based on the time intervals between the waves, the energy of the ECG signal in the target zones of the complexes, the amplitude at different points of the ECG complexes and the asymmetry indicators, different mathematical models were created to determine the severe (2nd or 3rd degree) LV DD. Lasso regression predicted the presence of severe LV DD with sensitivity 90% and specificity 80,6% (AUC- 0.856). The most significant for this method were the following variables: TA, SDNN, RonsF, ASEPMAX, B1, TpTe, ADP, SEPMAX, Sbeta, SEPF, RR, SRP-B0, Pan.1, QT/TQ, PpeakN, SA, SRP-B1. Random Forest also showed high sensitivity 80% and specificity 89, 3% (AUC- 0.860). For Random Forest model the most dignificant were: TpTe, VAT, QTc, QT/TQ, J80A, TA, Tenergy, Tpenergy, Beta, QRS11energy, Pan, Pan.1, RA, Pfi, QRSst, QRSfi, PpeakP, PpeakN, Rpeak, Speak, RonsF, B0-B1, SEP, SEP-B1, SEP-B0, SRP, SRP-B1, SRP-B0, ASEP. LV DD 1 degree did not have markers in our study. Conclusion Several machine learning methods have shown high sensitivity and specificity in identifying severe LV DD. Potentially ECG can be used as a screening method for determination of the LV DD. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): This work was financed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation within the framework of state support for the creation and development of World-Class Research Centers “Digital biodesign and personalized healthcare” No. 075-15-2020-926

Prognostic implications of left heart diastolic dysfunction in adults with coarctation of aorta

Abstract Background Left atrial dysfunction (LAD) and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) has been described in patients with coarctation of aorta (COA). However, it is unknown whether LA function and LV diastolic function indices can be used for prognostication in this population. The purpose of this study was to determine whether LAD and LVDD were associated with mortality in adults with COA. We hypothesized that LA and LV diastolic function indices will predict transplant-free survival in COA patients. Methods Retrospective study of COA patients (age ≥18) at Mayo Clinic (2000–2018). LVDD was determined using the 2016 guidelines for LVDD assessment, and LAD was assessed using LA reservoir strain. Results Of 721 patients, LV diastolic function could be determined in 635 (88%), while 86 (12%) were classified as indeterminate diastolic function. Of 635 patients, 414 (65%) had no LVDD, while 146 (23%), 53 (8%), and 22 (4%) had grade I/II/III LVDD respectively. The mean LA reservoir strain was −39±11%, and patients were divided into quartiles: top quartile (reference group), mild LAD, moderate LAD, and severe LAD. Of 635 patients, 49 died and 4 underwent heart transplant. On multivariate analysis, Grade III diastolic dysfunction (but not Grade I and II) was associated with mortality as compared to normal diastolic function. On the other hand, there was an incremental risk of mortality across LA strain quartiles: mild LAD (HR 1.16, 1.04–2.06), moderate LAD (HR 1.75, 1.27–3.58), and severe LAD (HR 3.49, 1.88–7.16). Of the 86 patients with indeterminate diastolic function, LAD was associated with a lower 5-year transplant-free survival as compared to normal LA function (83% vs 91%, p=0.06). Conclusions LAD (but not LVDD) was associated with incremental risk of mortality, and thus can be used for prognostication in all patients including those with indeterminate diastolic function. Although the current study did not identify a consistent relationship between LVDD severity classifications and mortality among COA patients, it does not imply that LVDD is benign. Rather it suggests that the conventional criteria for LVDD severity classifications may not be generalizable to every disease subgroup Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Effects of canagliflozin on NT-proBNP stratified by left ventricular diastolic function in patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic heart failure: a sub analysis of the CANDLE trial

BackgroundIdentification of the effective subtypes of treatment for heart failure (HF) is an essential topic for optimizing treatment of the disorder. We hypothesized that the beneficial effect of SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) on the levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) might depend on baseline diastolic function. To elucidate the effects of SGLT2i in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and chronic HF we investigated, as a post-hoc sub-study of the CANDLE trial, the effects of canagliflozin on NT-proBNP levels from baseline to 24 weeks, with the data stratified by left ventricular (LV) diastolic function at baseline.MethodsPatients (n = 233) in the CANDLE trial were assigned randomly to either an add-on canagliflozin (n = 113) or glimepiride treatment groups (n = 120). The primary endpoint was a comparison between the two groups of the changes from baseline to 24 weeks in NT-pro BNP levels, stratified according to baseline ventricular diastolic function.ResultsThe change in the geometric mean of NT-proBNP level from baseline to 24 weeks was 0.98 (95% CI 0.89–1.08) in the canagliflozin group and 1.07 (95% CI 0.97–1.18) in the glimepiride group. The ratio of change with canagliflozin/glimepiride was 0.93 (95% CI 0.82–1.05). Responder analyses were used to investigate the response of an improvement in NT-proBNP levels. Although the subgroup analyses for septal annular velocity (SEP-e′) showed no marked heterogeneity in treatment effect, the subgroup with an SEP-e′ < 4.7 cm/s indicated there was an association with lower NT-proBNP levels in the canagliflozin group compared with that in the glimepiride group (ratio of change with canagliflozin/glimepiride (0.83, 95% CI 0.66–1.04).ConclusionsIn the subgroup with a lower LV diastolic function, canagliflozin showed a trend of reduced NT-pro BNP levels compared to that observed with glimepiride. This study suggests that the beneficial effects of canagliflozin treatment may be different in subgroups classified by the severity of LV diastolic dysfunction.

Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction and Pulmonary Hypertension: Outcomes in SAVR.

Severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) are independently associated with poor outcomes in cardiac surgery. We evaluated the relationship of several measures of LVDD, PH, and hemodynamic subtypes of PH including precapillary pulmonary hypertension(pcPH) and isolated post-capillary pulmonary hypertension(ipcPH) and combined pre and post capillary pulmonary hypertension(cpcPH) capillary PH to postoperative outcomes in a cohort of patients who underwent elective isolated-AVR. We evaluated (n = 206) patients in our local STS database who underwent elective isolated-AVR between 2014 and 2018, with transthoracic echocardiogram (n = 177) or right heart catheterization (n = 183) within 1 year of operation (or both, n = 161). The primary outcome was a composite end point of death, prolonged ventilation, ICU readmission, and hospital stay >14 days. Severe PH was associated with worse outcomes (moderate: OR, 1.1, p = 0.09; severe: OR, 1.28, p = 0.01), but degree of LVDD was not associated with worse outcomes. Across hemodynamic subtypes of PH, odds of composite outcome were similar (p = 0.89), however, patients with cpcPH had more postoperative complications (67 vs. 36%, p = 0.06) and patients with ipcPH had greater all-cause mortality at 1 (8 vs. 1%, p = 0.03) and 3 years (27 vs. 4%, p = 0.008). Severe PH conferred modestly greater risk of adverse events, and both LVDD grade and the combination of severe PH and LVDD were not associated with worse outcomes. However, hemodynamic stratification of PH revealed higher postoperative complications and worse long-term outcomes for those with cpcPH and ipcPH. Preoperative stratification of PH by hemodynamic subtype in valve replacement surgery may improve our risk stratification in this heterogenous condition. Further evaluation of the significance of LVDD and PH in other cardiac operations is warranted.

Relationship between plasma aldosterone and left ventricular structure and function in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Aim. To study the relationship between plasma aldosterone level and left ventricular (LV) structure and function in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).Material and methods. This prospective study included 158 patients (58 men and 100 women, mean age, 62,3±7,4 years) with compensated HFpEF. Patients had no history of primary aldosteronism and did not use the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists during the last 6 weeks. The plasma aldosterone was determined by enzyme immunoassay in all patients and the severity of structural and functional cardiac changes was assessed. The concentration of 40160 pg/ml was considered the reference values. Assessment of cardiac structure and function was carried out using transthoracic echocardiography.Results. According to the laboratory results, all patients were divided into two groups: group 1 — 99 (62,7%) patients (95% confidence interval (CI), 55,0-70,0%) with normal aldosterone levels; group 2 — 59 (37,3%) patients (95% Cl, 30,0-45,0%) with hyperaldosteronism. End-diastolic volume, left atrial volume, LV mass index, severity of LV diastolic dysfunction and the prevalence of concentric hypertrophy were significantly higher in group 2 patients compared with group 1 (p&lt;0,05 for all). Blood aldosterone levels positively correlated with E/e’ (r=0,63, p&lt;0,001). Regression analysis, adjusted for age and comorbidity, demonstrated that plasma aldosterone levels were closely associated with E/e’ (odds ratio, 3,42; 95% CI, 1,65-9,64, p=0,001) and LV concentric hypertrophy (odds ratio, 1,12; 95% CI, 1,08-3,16, p=0,042).Conclusion. The development of secondary hyperaldosteronism in patients with HFpEF is an independent predictor of LV diastolic dysfunction and unfavorable prognostic types of LV remodeling.

Association Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Pulmonary Hypertension: A Clinical Investigation

Assessment of pulmonary hypertension (PAH) frequency and its association with interstitial lung disease (ILD), left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD), and valvular heart diseases (VHD) in adult patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Cross-sectional study. Cardiology and Rheumatology Departments, Ghaem Medical Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. A total of 40 patients with RA without history or clinical features of cardiac diseases underwent cardiopulmonary and rheumatological assessment, including history taking, physical examination, chest X-ray, chest High-Resolution Computed Tomography (HRCT), and echocardiography. Echocardiographic variables of patients with RA were measured and analyzed. The relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and pulmonary hypertension. The prevalence of PAH was 60% in RA. The tests showed no significant differences in PAH between age and gender groups. The most common valve involvement among patients was tricuspid insufficiency, followed by mitral insufficiency. Grades I and II LVDD were present in 27.5% and 2.5% of patients, respectively. There were significant correlations between systolic velocity (Sm) and ejection fraction, early diastolic velocity and diastolic velocity, as well as Sm and systolic wave velocity. This study revealed a high prevalence of severe LVDD in RA patients with PAH. Early diagnosis and management of cardiovascular risk factors may prevent the development and progression of PAH in RA patients.

Relationship of left ventricular and atrial dimensions with moderate to severe left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (grade II and above).

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (DD) is an entity in which the ventricle fails to fill up properly due to impaired ventricular relaxation and/or decreased compliance. The diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction is based on a variety of parameters in doppler echocardiograpy. However, some parameters like interventricular septal thickness in diastole (IVSd), posterior wall thickness in diastole (PWd), left ventricular internal end diastolic and systolic diameters (LVIDD and LVISD) along with left atrial diameters (LAD) have yet to be evaluated for the diagnostic workup of DD. A case control study was done in the cardiology department from patient records from 2016 to 2018. Patients were diagnosed as diastolic dysfunction grade II and above by doppler echocardiography. IVSd, PWd, LVIDD, LAD, LVISD were obtained through 2-D echocardiography. Patients with DD had greater LAD, IVSd and PWd and decreased LVIDD and LVISD as compared to control group. Overall, IVSD was the most significant predictor (OR 1.52 95%CI 1.35-1.71) of DD followed by PWd and LAD. Similarly, LAD, IVSd and PWd had higher sensitivity and specificity than LVIDD and LVIDS. IVSd, LAD and PWd showed significant performance in the diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction and hence can be used as a screening and diagnostic tool in diastolic dysfunction of grade ll and above.

P1274THE CHARACTER OF CARDIAC REMODELING AND VALVE CALCIFICATION IN TYPE 2 DIABETIC PATIENTS WITH END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE

Abstract Background and Aims Systematic analysis of cardiac remodeling features in type 2 diabetic patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) is important both in stratification of cardiovascular risk and in choice of adequate treatment strategies. The lack of number and fragmentation of studies, the ambiguity of their data regarding the problem of myocardial reconstruction and cardiac valve calcification (CVC) under these conditions have substantiated the need for this study, its relevance and purpose. Method 136 ESRD patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD) were included in this observational cross-sectional study (men, 78; age, 53.9±1.0 years; HD duration, 47.6±4.2 months). The study was performed in accordance with the provisions of the Declaration of Helsinki last revision. Depending on the presence/absence of diabetic nephropathy (DN) all patients were divided into two groups: the 1st one – without DN (n=88); the 2nd one – with DN (n=48). A complete ultrasound examination of the cardiac structure and function including CVC analysis was performed. Data are presented as means±SEM. Mann-Whitney U-test was used for comparison of the quantitative variables, χ2-test – qualitative ones. Results Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy (93.8 vs. 78.4%, р=0.020) and eccentric hypertrophy (47.9 vs. 28.4%, р=0.023) were diagnosed more often in patients with DN than those without diabetes. Prevalence of pseudonormal and restrictive types of LV diastolic dysfunction (62.5 vs. 28.4%, p&amp;lt;0.001), systolic dysfunction (27.1 vs. 9.1%, p=0.006) and pulmonary hypertension (PH) (64.6 vs. 35.2%, p=0.001) were significant in the 2nd group. CVC (66.6 vs. 38.6%, р=0.002), combined calcification of mitral (MV) and aortal (AV) valves (35.4 vs. 13.6%, p=0.003), stenoses of MV (16.7 vs. 3.4%, p=0.007) and AV (39.6 vs. 15.9%, p=0.004), and insufficiency of MV (66.7 vs. 44.3%, p=0.013) and AV (35.4 vs. 14.8%, p=0.006) were recorded more often in HD patients with DN. LV myocardial mass index (181.0±7.2 vs. 155.0±5.3 g/m2, p=0.001) as well as right ventricle (RV) diameter (2.80±0.09 vs. 2.47±0.04 cm, p=0.003) were also greater in the 2nd group. Conclusion In type 2 diabetic patients with ESRD occurs maladaptive cardiac remodeling with predominance of unfavourable (especially eccentric) types of LV hypertrophy, RV dilatation, PH, severe LV diastolic and systolic dysfunction, and widespread combined calcification of MV and AV with the valve defects. The identification of risk factors for the progression of the pathological reconstruction of myocardium and CVC in HD patients with DN will be the subject of our further research.

Risk factors for acute decompensated heart failure in type 2 diabetes patients

Aim. To identify risk factors for acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).Material and methods. In the cardiology department, 129 patients with ADHF were registered within 8 months, 59 (45,7%) of them had T2D. The study included 117 ADHF patients who were divided into two groups depending on the presence of T2D: group 1 (n=49; 41,9%) — patients with T2D, group 2 (n=67; 55,9%) without T2D. The ADHF was verified by rapid progress of hypoperfusion and congestion, which required emergency hospitalization and inotropic and/or intravenous diuretic therapy. In the first 48 hours of hospitalization, echocardiography was performed, levels of N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and creatinine were determined; the glomerular filtration rate was estimated.Results. The incidence of T2D among patients with ADHF was 45,7%. There were following risk factors for ADHF in T2D patients: diabetic ketoacidosis (p=0,002), hypertensive crisis (p=0,017), history of acute coronary syndrome (p=0,048), atrial fibrillation (p=0,030), chronic kidney disease (p=0,003), pneumonia (p=0,035), progression of anemia (p=0,049), low prevalence of beta-blockers use (p=0,001), use of inappropriate antidiabetic drugs for HF patients (sulfonylureas, insulin). ADHF, assessed by NT-proBNP level, was significantly more severe in T2D patients (p=0,001) with pronounced congestion symptoms (p=0,001), which led to an increase in the need for diuretic therapy (p=0,002). Cardiac remodeling in T2D patients with ADHF is characterized mainly by the preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), severe LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) and LV hypertrophy (LVH).Conclusion. The development of ADHF in T2D patients is associated with various risk factors and is characterized by severe congestion symptoms, high need for diuretic therapy, mainly preserved LVEF in combination with severe LVDD and LVH.

Impact of epicardial adipose tissue volume upon left ventricular dysfunction in patients with mild-to-moderate aortic stenosis: A post-hoc analysis.

BackgroundAortic stenosis (AS) may lead to diastolic dysfunction and later on heart failure (HF) with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (HFpEF) via increased afterload and left-ventricular (LV) hypertrophy. Since epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is a metabolically active fat depot that is adjacent to the myocardium and can influence cardiomyocytes and LV function via secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, we hypothesized that high amounts of EAT, as assessed by computed tomography (CT), may aggravate the development and severity of LV hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction in the context of AS.MethodsWe studied 50 patients (mean age 71 ± 9 years; 9 women) in this preliminary study with mild or moderate AS and mild to severe LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), diagnosed by echocardiography, who underwent non-contrast cardiac CT and echocardiography. EAT parameters were measured on 2nd generation dual source CT. Conventional two-dimensional echocardiography and Tissue Doppler Imaging (TDI) was performed to assess LV function and to derive myocardial straining parameter. All patients had a preserved LV ejection fraction > 50%. Data was analysed using Pearson’s correlation.ResultsOnly weak correlation was found between EAT volume or density and E/é ratio as LVDD marker (r = -.113 p = .433 and r = .260, p = .068 respectively). Also, EAT volume or density were independent from Global Strain Parameters (r = 0.058 p = .688 and r = -0.207 p = .239). E/é ratio was strongly associated with LVDD (r = .761 p≤0.0001) and Strain Parameters were moderately associated with LV Ejection Fraction (r = -.669 p≤0.001 and r = -.454 P≤0.005).ConclusionsIn this preliminary study in patients with AS, the EAT volume and density as assessed by CT correlated only weakly with LVDD, as expressed by the commonly used E/é ratio, and with LV strain function. Hence, measuring EAT volume and density may neither contribute to the prediction nor upon the severity of LVDD, respectively.

Baseline left ventricular diastolic dysfunction affects midterm mortality after transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

To determine whether preprocedural left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction impairs midterm mortality after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS), we performed a meta-analysis of currently available evidence. We identified all studies investigating impact of preprocedural severity of LV diastolic dysfunction on midterm (≥1-year) all-cause mortality after TAVI for patients with AS through a search of databases (MEDLINE and EMBASE) until September 2019. From each study, we extracted an adjusted (if unavailable, unadjusted) hazard ratio (HR) of midterm mortality. We pooled study-specific estimates in the random-effects model. Ten eligible studies with a total of 2380 patients with AS undergoing TAVI were identified. In accordance with pooled analyses, higher-grade preprocedural LV diastolic dysfunction was associated with significantly worse midterm all-cause mortality after TAVI compared to lower-grade dysfunction (HR for grade II vs I, 1.15; P = .002; HR for grade III vs I, 1.35; P = .001; HR for grade III vs II; 1.16, P = .002; HR for grade II-III vs I, II-III vs 0-I, or III vs I-II, 1.34; P < .00001 [primary meta-analysis]; HR per grade, 1.16; P = .003). No funnel plot asymmetry for the primary meta-analysis (for grade II-III vs I, II-III vs 0-I, or III vs I-II) was identified, which probably indicated no publication bias (P = .381 by the linear-regression test). Higher-grade preprocedural LV diastolic dysfunction was associated with worse midterm all-cause mortality after TAVI for patients with AS compared to lower-grade dysfunction.

Diagnostic Accuracy of NT-proBNP and ST2 in Detection of Moderate to Severe Asymptomatic Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction: Evaluation of The Role of Biomarkers in Screening of Diabetic Patients at Primary Healthcare Settings

Background: Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction, including asymptomatic LV dysfunction, has been shown to be more prevalent in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), and once progress to overt heart failure, carry worse clinical outcomes, compared to those without DM. The use of NT-proBNP and ST2 is well established in heart failure diagnosis and prognosis, but their inclusion in screening in asymptomatic DM patients has limited data.

Association of the low e′ and high E/e′ with long-term outcomes in patients with normal ejection fraction: a hospital population-based observational cohort study

ObjectiveWe aimed to evaluate the association of the severity of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction with long-term outcomes in patients with normal ejection fraction.DesignRetrospective study.SettingA single centre in Japan.ParticipantsWe included...

The Relationship Between Rhythm Variability and the Structural and Functional State of the Heart in Patients with Cerebral Atherosclerosis

The objective: to identify the presence of relationships between indicators of HRV and the structural and functional state of the heart in patients with cerebral atherosclerosis (CA) stage 1–3, depending on the hemispheric localization of the ischemic focus.Materials and methods. In a comprehensive study, 229 patients with CA 1–3 rd degree took part. The patients were divided into 4 groups: І - those who had ischemic stroke (IS) in the right hemisphere (RH); II – transferred IS in the left hemisphere (LH); ІІІ – with CA of 1st – 2nd degree (without IS – comparison group); IV – a general group of patients who have undergone ischemic atherothrombotic stroke. The age of patients of the examined groups ranged from 55 to 75 years. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography and an ECG with an assessment of heart rate variability (HRV). Statistical analysis was performed using non-parametric methods (Mann – Whitney test, Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient). Results are presented as medians and 25%, 75% quartiles. To identify the relationship between the indicators of the structural and functional state of the heart and HRV, a correlation analysis was carried out with the calculation of the Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.Results. In the general group of patients undergoing IS, one inverse correlation was established between the indices of the left ventricular myocardial mass index (MMI) and LF/HF% (r=–0,298), and in the group of patients without IS with CA 1–2 stages were established to relate the index of the relative wall thickness of the LV with the HRV and LF/HF indices (r=–0,196 and r=0,183 respectively) and 2 links of the LV diastolic myocardial function index with HRV and the triangular index (r=0,202 and r=0,217 respectively). When comparing groups of patients with different localization of IS, it was found that for patients with IS in the L, there is a characteristic of 3 MMLV connections with PNN50% and LF/HF% (0,322, –0,304 and –0,373 respectively), whereas for patients with the localization of IS in RH links no links were established.Conclusions. In patients with cerebral atherosclerosis without ischemic stroke, a decrease in HRV with activation of the sympathetic nervous system is associated with concentric LV remodeling and more severe left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. The presence of an ischemic focus in the left hemisphere of the brain, in contrast to the right hemisphere, determines more pronounced changes in HRV in patients as the degree of LV hypertrophy increases, which determines the high risk of repeated vascular events.

Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Outcomes: A Review.

Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common valvular disease that can lead to increased afterload, left ventricular (LV) remodeling, and myocardial fibrosis. We reviewed the literature addressing the impact of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) on LV remodeling and patients’ outcomes by elimination of AS-related high afterload. TAVR reduces afterload and improves LV remodeling recovery. However, myocardial fibrosis may not completely reverse after the TAVR. The LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) induced by AS is an independent predictor of post-TAVR mortality, and mortality increases with severity of LVDD. The impact of diastolic dysfunction on patient outcomes emerges at 30 days but continues to persist during mid-term follow-up. Based on severity of the baseline LVDD, some patients may tolerate post-TAVR aortic regurgitation (AR), but even minimal post-TAVR AR in patients with severe baseline LVDD can have an additive negative impact on survival. It is crucial to consider TAVR prior to development of advanced LVDD. Appropriate device selection and deployment technique are important in improvement of TAVR outcomes via elimination of AR.

Sex-related differences in left ventricular diastolic function and arterial elastance during admission in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: The PURSUIT HFpEF study.

We previously reported that an index of afterload-related left ventricular diastolic function, operant diastolic elastance (Ed)/effective arterial elastance (Ea) = E/e'/(0.9 × systolic blood pressure), was significantly higher in elderly hypertensive women. We aimed to determine sex-related differences in the E/e'-related indices for left ventricular diastolic function and their related factors during admission in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Elderly HFpEF women exhibit severe left ventricular diastolic dysfunction associated with different left atrioventricular volume ratio. We divided 267 patients with HFpEF (men/women, 116/151) into two groups by age (≥75 years, n = 212; <75 years, n = 55). We examined the alterations of E/e', E/e'/stroke volume index = Ed, and Ed/Ea, and cardiac structure during admission. Ed and Ea were significantly higher in women than in men, at admission, especially in patients ≥75 years. Before discharge, not only Ed and Ea but also Ed/Ea was significantly higher in women than in men, especially in patients ≥75 years. Elderly female patients had larger left atrial than left ventricular volume. Higher afterload-related left ventricular diastolic elastance, Ed/Ea, in association with higher arterial elastance, Ea, accompanied by left atrioventricular volume mismatch was observed in elderly HFpEF women.

Workup and Management of Patients With Paradoxical Low-Flow, Low-Gradient Aortic Stenosis.

About 60% of patients with paradoxical low-flow, low-gradient (PLF-LG) aortic stenosis (AS) have a severe disease that justifies aortic valve replacement (AVR). The first step in patients with symptomatic PLF AS should be to rule out measurement errors and treat hypertension. The second step is to distinguish pseudo-severe from true severe AS (TSAS). The third step is to select the optimal treatment modality at the right time. Regarding the second step, projected aortic valve area calculated using stress echocardiography is superior to traditional severity criteria (AVA < 1.0cm2 and mean gradient ≥ 40mmHg) to unmask TSAS and predict outcomes. Aortic valve calcification score quantitated by computed tomography is helpful to identify TSAS by applying thresholds of 2000 and 1200AU, respectively, for men and women. This modality should be considered, particularly if stress echocardiography is either not feasible or inconclusive. Once AS severity is confirmed, a risk stratification based on symptomatic status and the importance of left ventricular (LV) systolic impairment will guide therapeutic decision. Symptomatic assessment should not solely rely on patient-reported symptom status, but rather include an objective exercise test. The presence of symptomatic PLF-LG TSAS is a class IIa indication for AVR in the guidelines. In asymptomatic patients, a markedly reduced stroke volume, the presence of myocardial fibrosis by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, a poor longitudinal LV function as assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography, and/or a moderate to severe LV diastolic dysfunction are predictors of poor outcome in PLF-LG patients and may indicate the need of early AVR. The type of AVR should be discussed within a multidisciplinary team, bearing in mind that transcatheter AVR (TAVR) is superior to medical treatment in inoperable patients. Furthermore, TAVR may be a useful alternative to surgical AVR (SAVR) in high-risk patients. Nevertheless, the potential benefits of TAVR, including the lower risk of severe patient-prosthesis mismatch, should be weighed against the risk of paravalvular regurgitation, which is likely poorly tolerated by patients with PLF-LG who often harbor a small and non-compliant LV cavity.