Significant Improvement In LVEF Research Articles

Deep septal pacing for pacemaker-induced cardiomyopathy

Abstract Background Conventional right ventricular pacing can impair left ventricular function and cause heart failure, known as pacing induced cardiomyopathy (PICM). Upgrade to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is the most common treatment for PICM. Recently, left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has emerged as a potential alternative both to conventional RV pacing and to CRT. In Deep septal pacing (DSP), a simplified alternative to LBBAP, the lead is inserted deep in the septum, does not reach the subendocardial area, but is still able to achieve narrower paced QRS than during conventional pacing. Purpose The aim of this study was to assess the effect of DSP in a cohort of patients with PICM. Methods We included consecutive patients diagnosed with PICM who were referred to our unit between January 2020 and January 2022 for a device upgrade. The aim was to upgrade patients to DSP. In the absence of terminal R wave in V1, the procedure was considered successful if a paced QRS duration ≤140 ms was obtained. Clinical and device follow-up were performed one and 6 months after the procedure, and echocardiography at 6 months. The study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee and all patients signed informed consent. Results Fifteen patients were recruited during the study period. One patient was excluded because a QRS ≤ 140 ms could not be achieved, and 2 other patients because a terminal R wave in paced QRS in V1 was obtained. The characteristics of the 12 included cases are detailed in Table 1. The mean LVEF was 33% (SD 4%) and the mean percentage of RV pacing was 99% (SD 1%). All patients had symptomatic heart failure. Non stylet-driven electrodes were used in 8 of the 12 patients. Acute threshold was < 1V - 0’4 ms in all, and remained stable during follow-up. No procedure-related complications or lead dislodgements were detected. The mean paced QRS duration with RV pacing was 172 ms (SD 14 ms) whereas after the upgrade it was 130 ms (SD 7 ms). As compared to RV pacing, DSP was associated with a significant reduction in paced QRS duration (mean difference 41 ms, p<0.001). As shown in Table 1, after DSP all patients except one (11/12, 92%) experienced an increase in LVEF of at least 10%; five patients (42%) achieved an LVEF>50%. The mean LVEF after the upgrade was 46% (SD 9%). The mean improvement in LVEF with DSP was 13% (SD 10%). Conclusions In patients with PICM, deep septal pacing achieves narrower QRS as compared to RV pacing and is associated with a significant improvement in LVEF. Deep septal pacing might be an effective and simpler alternative to biventricular or left bundle branch pacing in patients with PICM.Table 1

Echocardiographic follow-up after AV node ablation combined with left bundle branch area pacing for patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background AV node ablation combined with permanent pacing is an established therapy for rate control in patients with symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) refractory or intolerant to pharmacological rate or rhythm control and not eligible for rhythm control by left atrial catheter ablation. The threshold for performing this so-called "pace-and-ablate" strategy has decreased since the introduction of conduction system pacing, and especially left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP). Purpose To investigate the change of the left-ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) and left-atrial volume index (LAVI) in patients with symptomatic AF, twelve months after LBBAP and AV-node ablation. Methods Consecutive patients with symptomatic AF intolerant or refractory to pharmacological rate and symptom control and deemed not eligible for left atrial catheter ablation were included. At baseline, the EHRA score was noted and the LVEF and LAVI were measured echocardiographically. Patients were subdivided in a normal baseline LV ejection fraction (LVEF >50%) or diminished baseline LVEF (LVEF <50%) group. After LBBAP, patients underwent AV node ablation in the same procedure or four weeks later. After twelve months, the LVEF and LAVI were reassessed in the entire cohort and the two subgroups. Results Twenty-two patients (68% female, mean age 79±4 years) scheduled for pace-and-ablate therapy were prospectively included. Three (14%) had paroxysmal, sixteen patients (72%) had persistent AF and three patients (14%) long-standing persistent AF. An EHRA class IIb or higher was found in eighteen patients (82%). At baseline, the mean LVEF was 51 ± 7%, the mean LVEDD 47 ± 6 mm and LAVI 54 ± 18 ml/m2. Twelve patients (55%) had a preserved LVEF, whereas ten patients (45%) had an LVEF <50%, fig. 1. After twelve months, the overall ejection fraction increased to 54 ± 5% (p=0.016), fig. 2A. This was mostly attributed to the increase in LVEF to 51 ± 5% in the subgroup with a reduced baseline LVEF (p=0.009 compared to baseline 44 ± 5%), fig. 2A. The LVEF was unaffected in the other group (57 ± 3% vs. 57 ± 4%, p=0.63), fig. 2A. The LAVI was not significantly reduced in the overall cohort or the subgroups (54 ± 18 ml/m2 to 51 ± 19 ml/m2, p=0.16), fig 2B. Conclusion AV node ablation combined with LBBAP results in a significant improvement in LVEF at twelve months follow-up. This is mainly driven by an improvement in LVEF in those patients with a diminished LVEF at baseline. The data suggests that the therapy can reverse a tachycardiomyopathy without inducing a pacing-induced cardiomyopathy. No significant reduction in LAVI was found.Baseline characteristicsChanges in LVEF (A) and LAVI (B)

Catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction patients: A meta-analysis

BackgroundThe optimal treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) remains unsettled. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of catheter ablation (CA) and medical therapy compared to medical therapy alone in patients with AF and HFrEF. MethodsWe performed a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing CA with guideline-directed medical therapy for AF in patients with HFrEF (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] ≤ 40%). We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane for eligible trials. A random effects model was used to calculate the risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences (MDs), with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). ResultsSix RCTs comprising 1055 patients were included, of whom 530 (50.2%) were randomized to CA. Compared with medical therapy, CA was associated with a significant reduction in heart failure (HF) hospitalization (RR 0.57; 95% CI 0.45–0.72; P < .01), cardiovascular mortality (RR 0.46; 95% CI 0.31–0.70; P < .01), all-cause mortality (RR 0.53; 95% CI 0.36–0.78; P < .01), and AF burden (MD –29.8%; 95% CI –43.73% to –15.90%; P < .01). Also, there was a significant improvement in LVEF (MD 3.8%; 95% CI 1.6%–6.0%; P < .01) and quality of life (Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire; MD –4.92 points; 95% CI –8.61 to –1.22 points; P < .01) in the ablation group. ConclusionIn this meta-analysis of RCTs of patients with AF and HFrEF, CA was associated with a reduction in HF hospitalization, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality as well as a significant improvement in LVEF and quality of life.

Long-term results following off-pump coronary-artery bypass grafting in left ventricular dysfunction.

Severe left ventricular (LV) dysfunction is an independent risk factor for early and long-term mortality after coronary-artery bypass grafting (CABG). Off-pump CABG (OPCAB) significantly reduces the early incidence of major complications in high-risk patients. Moreover, bilateral internal thoracic artery (BITA) grafting after CABG is associated with improved long-term outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the impact of multivessel OPCAB with BITA grafting for complete revascularization on postoperative and long-term outcomes in patients with low LV ejection fraction (EF). We included 121 patients with EF ≤ 30.0% who underwent isolated multivessel OPCAB (average LVEF, 24.8%) between April 2007 and December 2019. Sixty-six patients received BITA grafts, while 55 had single internal thoracic artery (SITA) grafts. We conducted multivariate analyses to examine the correlation between perioperative data and late mortality rate. The early mortality rate was 1.65%. After excluding in-hospital mortality cases, we performed long-term follow-up of 119 patients. Early postoperative echocardiography showed significant LVEF improvement in 89 (75.2%) patients. However, LVEF remained ≤ 30.0% in 30 (24.8%) patients. We recorded 15 and 30 cases of cardiac death and cardiac events, respectively, during the long-term follow-up period. Postoperative LVEF ≤ 30.0% (P < 0.01) and no use of BITA grafting (P = 0.03) were significant predictors of cardiac death and events; moreover, hemodialysis was a significant predictor of all-cause mortality rather than cardiac death. Multivessel OPCAB in patients with severe LV dysfunction was associated with acceptable in-hospital mortality and early postoperative improvement in LV function. Additionally, OPCAB with BITA grafting may provide long-term benefits with respect to cardiac death and events. However, the long-term benefits were significantly limited in patients without early postoperative improvement in LV function and patients with chronic hemodialysis.Clinical registration number: 5590 (14/5/2020 Tokyo Women's Medical University).

High fat diet rewires cardiac metabolism and restores cardiac function experimental heart failure

Abstract Introduction Heart failure is characterized by a metabolic reprogramming changing from fatty acids to glucose as the preferential fuel of the failing myocardium. Whether metabolic reprograming is a therapeutic target remains controversial. Purpose To evaluate whether a nutritional intervention rewiring cardiac metabolism towards a fatty acids has a beneficial effect on cardiac function in a large animal model of hibernated myocardium. Methods Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF ) was induced in pigs by generating a hibernated myocardium secondary to progressive stenosis of the proximal left anterior descending (LAD) after surgical insertion of an ameroid. Pigs underwent a serial multimodality imaging study including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), PET/CT with 18FDG. Once hibernated myocardium with metabolic reprogramming was documented (complete occlusion of LAD on invasive angiography, LVEF &amp;lt;50% on MRI, animals were randomized to HFD (20% of fat) or control diet (3% of fat) for 2 months. At 2 months, a second imaging session were performed and tissue was evaluated. Results Both groups presented the same LV systolic dysfunction at basal (54.0% [47.0, 62.5] vs 41.0% [38.0, 43.3], p=0.94). Two months after diet, animals receiving HFD displayed significantly better LVEF than controls (54.0% [47.0, 62.5] vs 41.0% [38.0, 43.3], p=0.012). At baseline, hibernated myocardium presented a small degree of LGE (mostly endocardial) on CMR (4.58%LV [2.03, 9.39] for both pooled groups). After nutritional intervention, the extent of LGE was significantly smaller (0.558%LV [0.213, 1.78] vs 6.24%LV [4.95, 9.18], p=0.0043). 18FDG PET scan showed a metabolic rewiring in the hibernated area of pigs receiving HFD (anterior region FDG uptake normalized to remote was 0.465 counts [0.214, 0.646] vs 1.80 [1.53, 2.83], p=0.016). On transmission electron microscopy, cardiomyocytes´ lipid droplets in cardiomyocytes from HFD-fed pigs were significantly less that those from controls (38.5 per 10 um3 [34.3, 50.3] vs 96.0 [78.5, 124], p=0.022). Protein expression of MMFN2, a protein involved in lipid droplet formation, was significantly downregulated in HFD pigs(0.696- fold/Vinculin [0.532, 0.916] vs 1.72 [1.48, 2.45], p=0.041). Expression of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism was significantly upregulated: ACOX1 (1.46 [1.37, 1.67] vs 1.09 [0.943, 1.19], p=0.0043), and CRAT (1.85 [1.55, 2.14] vs 1.19 [0.926, 1.50], p=0.041) .Conversely, expression of genes involved in glucose mobilization were downregulated: GLUT1 (0.645 [0.611, 0.678] vs 0.993 [0.946, 1.19], p=0.041) and HK2 (0.192 [0.148, 0.400] vs 1.46 [0.680, 2.00], p=0.015). Conclusions In a large animal model of HFrEF secondary to hibernated myocardium with a metabolic switch, a nutritional intervention based on high fat diet was associated with a cardiac metabolic rewiring (normalization of fatty acid substrate utilization) and a significant improvement of LVEF.

Abstract 16974: Sudden Cardiac Death With Heart Failure Despite Improvement in LV Ejection Fraction: A Population-Based Study

Introduction: Individuals with heart failure (HF) and severely reduced LVEF (≤35%) have increased risk of SCD and qualify for primary prevention ICD implantation. Guideline-directed medical therapy can improve LVEF in ICD patients but influence on SCD risk remains controversial. Hypothesis: In a subgroup of HF patients, improvements in LVEF may not eliminate risk of SCD.Aim: To identify and characterize a subgroup of HF patients who suffer SCD despite improvements in LVEF. Methods: From a large, prospective population-based study of SCD in the Northwest US (population ~1 million, 2002-2018), we identified all consecutive patients with an established diagnosis of HF and LVEF≤35%. In the sub-group of patients with at least 2 prior LVEF evaluations (earliest and latest in relation to SCD), individuals with significant improvement in LVEF over time (latest LVEF &gt;35%) were compared to those without improvement in LVEF (latest LVEF ≤35%). Results: A total of 1622 individuals suffered SCD with a known diagnosis of HF (65% male, age 72±14) of which 434 had at least 2 LVEF evaluations over time prior to their SCD. Of these 100 (23%) had LVEF ≤35% at their earliest evaluation (mean LVEF 27±6). A subgroup of 46% (n=46) had significant improvement in LVEF between earliest vs latest evaluation (28±6 vs. 49+9, by 20±10, p&lt;0.001) with no improvement observed in the remainder (54%, 25±6 vs. 24±7, by -1±7, p = 0.23). Comparisons of the clinical profile (demographic, coronary disease, comorbidities and medications) did not yield any identifiable differences between the subgroups with and without improvement in LVEF (Table; p&gt;0.05 for all). Conclusions: Approximately half of individuals with SCD and a history of HF and LVEF ≤35% had significant improvements in LVEF, but this group could not be distinguished from those without improvements in LVEF by readily available clinical variables. These findings highlight the need for novel markers of SCD risk beyond the LVEF for this subset of HF patients.

Abstract 12947: Restoration of Sinus Rhythm Significantly Improves Left Ventricular Function in Patients With Very Low Ejection Fraction

Introduction: Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction is a common sequelae of supraventricular tachycardia, especially atrial fibrillation (AF). We evaluated the impact of restoration of sinus rhythm following successful catheter ablation on LV function in AF patients with ejection fraction of ≤20%. Methods: Consecutive AF patients with LVEF ≤20% undergoing their first catheter ablation were included in the study. All received isolation of pulmonary veins, left atrial posterior wall and superior vena cava. Additionally, non-PV triggers were ablated at the operator’s discretion. Echocardiogram was performed at baseline and 6 months post-ablation to measure the LVEF. Arrhythmia-monitoring was performed at 1, 3 and 6 months with event recorders, 12-lead ECG and 7-day Holter monitoring. Results: A total of 63 patients undergoing catheter ablation for AF were included (age: 62.5 ± 9.9 years, male: 82.5%). Majority of the patients had LVEF of ≤15% (n=48, 76%); remaining 15 patients had LVEF of 16-20%. Mean LA diameter was 4.94 ± 0.57 cm and 82.5% of patients had non-paroxysmal type of AF. Median duration of AF was 27 months. Follow-up echocardiogram at 6 months of follow-up detected significant improvement in LVEF [Mean difference: 15.2 ± 11.7% (p &lt; 0.001)]. All patients were arrhythmia-free at that time point: 47 (74.6%) off-drugs and 16 (25.4%) patients on previously ineffective anti-arrhythmic drugs. Conclusion: Restoration of sinus rhythm following successful catheter ablation was associated with significant improvement in LVEF in patients with severe LV dysfunction

Abstract 13917: Predictors of Ventricular Arrhythmias in Patients With Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Improvement to &gt;35% Following Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy

Introduction: Patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy with a defibrillator (CRT-D) show significant improvement in LVEF. We designed this study to identify predictors of ventricular arrhythmic (VA) events among patient with LVEF improvement &gt; 35% after one year of treatment with CRT-D. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that LVEF improvement &gt; 35% is associated with a decreased risk of VA events. Methods: Patients randomized to CRT-defibrillator from the Multicenter Automatic Defibrillator Implantation Trial with Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy (MADIT-CRT) trial with LVEF &gt; 35% at 12 months were included in this analysis (N=651). Predictors of an appropriate ICD therapy for VA subsequent to one year were evaluated by cox regression model. Cumulative probability of first event was analyzed by Kaplan Meier Method with time for follow-up beginning at 1 year after device implantation. Results: The average follow-up was 2.04 ± 0.83 years. We identified 3 independent predictors of VA among patients treated with CRT-D subsequent to LVEF improvement to &gt; 35%: (1) baseline non-LBBB morphology (HR=1.93; 95% CI,1.23-3.04; p= 0.004); (2) the occurrence of VA during first year post CRT-D implant (HR=4.91 [95% CI, 2.99-8.07]; p&lt;0.001); and (3) lower range improvement in LVEF (36-40% vs. &gt;40%; HR =1.97 [95% CI 1.21-3.20]; p= 0.006). When compared with patients with 0 risk factors, having one and 2 or more risk factors had significantly higher risk of VTA (2-year rate of VT/VF = 4%, 11% and 32% respectively; HRs = 2.9 [p=0.002]and 7.9 [p=&lt;0.001], respectively [Figure]). Conclusions: We identify a sub-group of patients who remain at high risk of VTA despite improvement in LVEF &gt; 35% with CRT-D. Having a baseline non-LBBB morphology, experiencing VA during the first year post CRT-D, and lower-range LVEF improvement are associated with high risk of future arrhythmias, with a cumulative effect.

Effect of Cardiac Rehabilitation on Post Exercise Systolic Blood Pressure Recovery in Patients with Impaired Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction after Recent Myocardial Infarction

Abstract Background Ischemic Heart diseases (IHD) are significant causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide with an estimated 9 million deaths each year. Exercise-based Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) is one of the most important and cost-effective aspects of secondary prevention in patients with IHD. Post-exercise Systolic Blood Pressure Recovery (SBPR) represents an important hemodynamic parameter that is associated with the risk and severity of ischemic artery disease and future cardiovascular events. Aim of the Work The aim of this study is to assess the effect of CR on post-exercise SBPR in patients with Left Ventricular Ejection fraction less than 45% following a recent Myocardial Infarction. Patients and Methods this study included patients with Left Ventricular Ejection fraction less than 45% following a recent Myocardial Infarction, presenting to Cardiac Rehabilitation Units. the study included two groups of patients. Study group included Patients on optimal medical treatment who are attending CR sessions, and control group included patients on optimal medical treatment who refused or failed to attend more than 50% of cardiac rehabilitation sessions. SBPR was assessed in each patient before and after the CR program. Results When compared to baseline findings, both groups had statistically significant improvement in LVEF, resting SBP, recovery SBP value and HRR. However, CR group had better improvement in LVEF, lower Resting SBP, lower Peak SBP, Better SBP recovery ratio and better HRR outcomes when compared to the changes in the control group. Conclusions Cardiac Rehabilitation after recent Ischemic coronary artery event can provide significant improvement in Systolic blood pressure recovery and heart rate recovery which are important haemodynamic parameters that are associated with the significance and severity of future cardiovascular events. Abbreviations IHD: Ischemic Heart Disease; CR: Cardiac Rehabilitation; LVEF: Left Ventricular Ejection fraction; SBP: Systolic Blood Pressure

Prognostic impact of new permanent pacemaker implantation following transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

Conduction disturbances requiring permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) are common following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). There were conflicting data regarding the impact of new PPI on clinical outcomes after TAVR. The study sought to evaluate the impact of new PPI on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing TAVR. This study was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. Data were from 210 consecutive patients without prior PPI who underwent TAVR due to severe symptomatic aortic stenosis at our center between June 2018 and July 2020. Clinical, echocardiographic, and pacing data were assessed at 30-day, 1- and 2-year follow-up. New PPI was required in 35 (16.7%) patients within 30 days after TAVR. The median time from TAVR to PPI was 3 days. The most common indication for PPI was high-degree or complete atrioventricular block. The median follow-up was 798.0 (interquartile range, 669.0-1115.0) days. There were no differences in all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.18; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85-2.36; p = 0.415) and cardiovascular mortality (adjusted HR: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.57-1.89; p = 0.609) between groups. However, PPI group had a higher risk of heart failure (HF) rehospitalization (adjusted HR: 1.53; 95% CI: 1.26-2.28; p = 0.027). Echocardiography showed no significant improvement of LVEF over time in patients with PPI. At the latest follow-up, 31.3% of patients exhibited low (≤10%) pacing burdens, whereas 28.1% of patients had near constant (>90%) right ventricular pacing. New PPI within 30 days following TAVR was not associated with an increased risk of all-cause or cardiovascular mortality. However, patients with PPI had a higher risk of HF rehospitalization and lack of LVEF improvement.

MP-453086-7 ATRIOVENTRICULAR JUNCTION ABLATION AND CARDIAC RESYNCHRONIZATION THERAPY IN PATIENTS WITH NONOBSTRUCTIVE HYPERTROPHIC CARDIOMYOPATHY AND PERMANENT ATRIAL FIBRILLATION

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia encountered with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes. The outcomes of ablate-and-pace strategy for the management of refractory AF in HCM patients are unclear. The objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the incremental benefit and safety of atrioventricular junction (AVJ) ablation and biventricular pacing (CRT) in patients with nonobstructive (NO) HCM and symptomatic permanent AF. Between January 2016 and December 2021, 20 patients with NO-HCM underwent AVJ ablation + CRT for uncontrolled permanent AF. The control group included 86 NO-HCM patients with permanent AF treated by the best medical rate-control therapy. A 1:1 propensity score (PS) matching analysis weighted on clinical (age, gender, hypertension, diabetes, recent hospitalization for heart failure [HF], cerebrovascular accident, chronic kidney disease, NYHA class) and imaging characteristics (left ventricle [LV] ejection fraction [EF], left atrial dimension, estimated pulmonary hypertension, maximal wall thickness, late gadolinium enhancement extension) was performed to compare outcomes between groups. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality and hospitalization due to HF during follow-up. PS matching yielded 40 patients, 20 patients with AVN ablation + CRT (Group 1), and 20 patients in best medical rate-control therapy (Group 2). CRT was achieved in all patients (100% CRT-D). No acute procedure-related complications were noted. The mean paced QRS duration was 119±12 ms. Within the matched cohort, mean age was 64±7 years, the median time since AF diagnosis was 2 years (IQR 0.8-2.3 years), the mean LV EF was 53%±5%. During a median follow-up period of 23 months (IQR 19-27 months), patients in Group 1 had a lower risk of primary outcomes (HR 0.7; 95% CI 0.47-0.92; p=0.04), mainly driven by a significantly lower risk of HF hospitalization (HR 0.4; 95% CI 0.23–0.75; p=0.02). Compared to Group 2, Group 1 experienced a significant improvement in LV EF (55%±5% [Group 1] vs 48%±6% [Group 2], p=0.03) and improvement in NYHA class. No long-term device-related complications were noted. Ablation of AVJ + CRT was safe and superior to medical therapy in reducing HF hospitalization in patients with NO-HCM and permanent AF.

Corticosteroid in anti-inflammatory treatment of pediatric acute myocarditis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundTo evaluate the efficacy of corticosteroids in anti-inflammatory treatment of pediatric acute myocarditis.MethodsWe searched PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library and included studies before October 2022 for clinical trials, observational studies and retrospective studies which reported on children with acute myocarditis treated with corticosteroid anti-inflammatory therapy. The quality of the clinical trials was assessed by Jadad score as an exclusion criterion.ResultsThis systematic review included 6 studies involving 604 pediatric patients with acute myocarditis. Corticosteroid therapy was not associated with reduced risk of mortality due to acute myocarditis (P = 0.53; RR = 0.87; 95% CI = 0.58 to 1.33) compared to anti-failure treatment. There was a significant improvement in pediatric patients’ left ventricular function measured by left ventricular ejection fraction in the group on corticosteroid anti-inflammatory treatment (P = 0.0009; MD = 11.93%; 95% CI = 4.87% to 18.99%). No conclusion can be drawn due to the high heterogeneity in meta-analyses of risk of getting to a clinical endpoint (death or heart transplantation) and changes in left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD).ConclusionsCorticosteroid anti-inflammatory therapy in pediatric acute myocarditis patients showed no significant improvement in reducing the risk of mortality, but showed significant improvement in LVEF.

Prognostic role of pulmonary hemodynamics before transcatheter aortic valve replacement among patients with severe aortic stenosis.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) frequently co-exists in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). In this study, we sought to identify the implications of invasive pulmonary hemodynamics on major adverse cardiac events (MACE), biventricular function and NYHA functional class after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Invasive hemodynamics via right heart catheterization (RHC) were performed pre-TAVR. Patients were stratified per mean PA pressure (mPAP), diastolic pulmonary gradient (DPG) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), and followed at 1-month and 1-year intervals up to 6 years. MACE outcomes included cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalizations post-TAVR. Among 215 patients, Kaplan-Meir estimates demonstrated an increased 1-year risk of MACE from 8% among those without pre-TAVR PH to 27% among patients with pre-existing PH. Specifically, the MACE risk was 32% among PH patients with PVR ≥ 3WU (p=.04) and 53% among PH patients with DPG ≥ 7 mm Hg (p < .01). On univariate Cox regression, RV stroke work index (RVSWI) (HR,1.02; p=.02), and pulmonary hemodynamic index (PHI) (HR,1.27; p=.047) were identified as additional predictors of MACE post-TAVR. On multivariable Cox regression analysis, SvO2 (HR, 0.95; p=.01) and PVR (HR, 1.2; p=.04) were demonstrated as predictive of MACE post-TAVR. A significant improvement in LVEF (2-Factor ANOVA, p < .01) and RV fractional area change (RVFAC%) (p < .01) was noted as assessed at baseline, 1-month and 1-year follow up post-TAVR. There was a significant interaction between pre-TAVR PH status and time post procedure with respect to NYHA functional class (p=.03), that is, the manner and degree of change in NYHA class over time depended on pre-TAVR PH status. Defining invasive pulmonary hemodynamics, such as mPAP, PVR, and DPG among patients with severe AS undergoing TAVR has significant prognostic implications. Routine risk stratification by utilizing invasive hemodynamics can better identify patients who will have functional improvement and improved outcomes post-TAVR.

Comparison of his bundle pacing versus biventricular pacing in heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Despite optimal medical treatment, the 5-years mortality and HF readmission rate was 75.3% and 48.5%, respectively. The current guidelines recommended cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) by implanting biventricular pacing (BVP) for specific group of patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in order to reduce the mortality and the risk of HF events by 34%. However, 20% to 40% patients might not respond or even get clinical deterioration after receiving such device. To overcome the non-responders, His bundle pacing (HBP) emerges recently as one of the therapeutic options. His bundle pacing implantation potentially results in the narrower QRS duration as well as more improvement in left ventricle (LV) function compared with BVP in patients with LBBB. On top of that, HBP might become a more cost-effective solution, compared to CRT, particularly for the majority of developing countries in Asia. Purpose We aim to elaborate the clinical efficacy of HBP in specific patients with HF, compared to BVP. This HBP was implanted either as a primary therapeutic strategy for CRT candidates or as a rescue strategy for BVP non-responders. Methods This study is registered. A structured search was conducted in Pubmed, Embase, and Clinicaltrial.gov. Inclusion criteria were: Age &amp;gt;18 years old, NYHA II-IV, QRS duration ≥120 milliseconds, and left (LBBB) or right bundle branch block (RBBB) morphology. The primary endpoints were change in QRS duration, improvement in LVEF, improvement in NYHA class, and cardiovascular (CV) event. Results A total of 8 final articles involving 361 HF patients were included for analysis, with a male preponderance. The QRS duration was significantly narrower in HBP (MD: -23.44; 95%CI -34.92 to -11.97; P&amp;lt;0.001) compared to BVP. There was no statistically significant LVEF improvement between HBP group and BVP group in HF patients who were CRT candidates (MD: 4.63; 95%CI -4.47 to 13.74; P=0.32). The improvement in NYHA class varied between studies. One study reported comparable improvement between HBP and BVP, while another study reported better improvement in HBP compared to BVP. In terms of CV outcome, there was no significant difference in CV hospitalization and mortality rate. Heart failure hospitalization occurred both in HBP and BVP group, but the difference was not significant between groups. Improvement in QRS duration, LVEF, and NYHA class occurred in both LBBB and RBBB. Conclusion(s) HBP provides better electrical resynchronization compared to BVP. Additionally, some degree of reverse LV remodelling was also observed in HBP group of patients with either LBBB and RBBB patterns. However, the benefits of HBP in reducing HF hospitalization and CV mortality remain indeterminate. Further RCTs with large samples are still required to evaluate the superiority of HBP, compared to BVP for CRT, in reducing mortality and HF hospitalization.

941 SARCOIDOSIS: THE IMPORTANCE OF MULTIMODALITY IMAGING

Abstract A 55-years old sporty man, without any cardiovascular risk factors nor previously known cardiological history, presented for a cardiological evaluation due to extra-systolic palpitations and dyspnea. The ECG documented a new onset of right bundle branch block, left anterior fascicular block and first degree of atrio-ventricular block. Echocardiography revealed severe left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction (LV ejection fraction -EF- 34%), showing also right ventricular (RV) dilatation and disfunction. A 24-hour Holter monitoring did not show any significant arrhythmias and maximal stress test did not reveal any ECG changes nor arrhythmias. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) confirmed the presence of severe biventricular dysfunction; multiple areas of edema and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were observed, with ischemic and nonischemic pattern and extensive involvement of the RV and the interventricular septum. In the suspicion of cardiac sarcoidosis a 18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) was performed, confirming the presence of an inflammatory cardiomyopathy in an active phase. A subsequent endomyocardial biopsy was performed, which demonstrated the presence of non-caseating granulomas, signs of inflammation and fibrosis, consistent with the diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis. No signs of extra-cardiac involvement were present. The patient started anti-inflammatory therapy with Prednisone and Metotrexate, along with anti-neurohormonal therapy. However, due to a significant increase in ventricular arrhythmic burden, an implantable cardioverter defibrillator was placed during early follow-up, and Amiodarone therapy was started. After 5 months of medical therapy, PET scan showed a marked reduction of cardiac inflammation and echocardiography showed a significant LVEF improvement (from 34% to 43%). After slow tapering of steroid therapy Prednisone was stopped, whereas Metotrexate, Amiodarone and anti-neurohormonal therapy were maintained. Follow-up is still ongoing without clinical events. Sarcoidosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by the presence of non-caseating granulomas in multiple organs. Cardiac involvement is associated with higher incidence of heart failure, ventricular arrhythmias and all-cause mortality. Isolated cardiac involvement is rare but associated with worse prognosis. Multimodality imaging is of paramount importance for the diagnosis and monitoring therapy.

Acute hemodynamic effects of biventricular pacing studied during cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging: the PICARIA Trial

Abstract Background Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is hampered by a relative high rate of non-response whereby device optimization could aid in improving benefit from CRT. Nonetheless, a non-invasive and reproducible clinical tool for device optimization is currently lacking. Recently introduced cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) compatible CRT devices may allow for patient follow-up and device optimization as biventricular (BIV) pacing can be performed during the CMR exam. However, to date, CMR evaluation of acute pump function changes during CRT is limited. Purpose To assess the effects of BIV-pacing on change in left ventricular (LV) function and contraction patterns using CMR. Methods Ten patients were included in this prospective pilot study. All patients underwent CMR imaging (1.5T system) prior to device implantation (baseline), and 6 weeks after device implantation (CRT-on and CRT-off). LV end systolic volume (ESV), end diastolic volume (EDV), ejection fraction (LVEF), and measures of LV dyssynchrony and dyscoordination (septal systolic rebound stretch (SRSseptal)) were assessed on cine images. Results LV function and contraction patterns before and after device implantation are compared and displayed in the figure. LV ESV and EDV decreased in all patients during BIV-pacing as compared to intrinsic rhythm (CRT-off) (ESV; 161.4±36.3ml vs. 194.9±37.1ml, p&amp;lt;0.01 and EDV; 236.2±31.8ml vs. 268.1±42.3ml, p&amp;lt;0.01). A significant improvement in LVEF was observed during BIV-pacing (32.2±8.7% vs. 27.4±5.9%, p&amp;lt;0.01). Both, regional dyssynchrony and regional dyscoordination significantly improved during CRT-on compared to CRT-off (peakseptal-peaklateral; 57±46ms vs. 183±86ms, p&amp;lt;0.01 and SRSseptal; 2.1±2.6% vs. 6.0±3.0%, p&amp;lt;0.01). Conclusions Post-CRT implantation CMR assessing acute pump function changes to different CRT pacing settings is feasible and provides important insights in the effects of BIV-pacing on cardiac function and contraction patterns. LV assessment using CMR, potentially in combination with non-invasive pressure measurements, may constitute a future CRT optimization strategy. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Biotronik (Berlin, Germany)

A systematic review and meta-analysis of upgrade to biventricular or conduction system pacing approaches

Abstract Introduction Chronic RV pacing has been recognised as being harmful to cardiac function. Patients undergoing a de novo pacemaker implant with even mild LV impairment are recommended to instead receive a physiological pacing strategy (biventricular or conduction system pacing [CSP]). No corresponding guideline recommendation exists for patients who already have a pacemaker. Methods We undertook a random-effects meta-analysis of all RCTs and observational studies covering device upgrade to biventricular pacing or conduction system pacing. Results 6 RCTs assessing effect of upgrade to BiV pacing randomising 161 patients were eligible for analysis. Eligible observational studies included 46 of BiV upgrade and 7 of CSP upgrade totalling 2795 patients. Mean LVEF improved by +8.3% from 34.4% in BiV upgrade RCTs (p=0.001) and +8.3% from 25.7% in BiV upgrade observational studies (p&amp;lt;0.001). In observational studies of upgrade to CSP, LVEF increased by +10.1% from 38.4% (p=0.001) despite less severe LV impairment at baseline (p=0.004 vs mean EF in BiV RCTs and p&amp;lt;0.0001 vs mean EF in BiV observational studies). LVESV decreased significantly by −25.4 ml, −23.7 ml, and −19.8 ml in BiV RCTs, BiV observational studies and CSP observational studies. Significant changes were also seen in NYHA class (decreased by −0.4, −0.8 and −1.0 respectively). Minnesota Heart Failure Score (−6.9 points) and peak oxygen uptake (+1.1 ml/kg/min) increased significantly in RCTs of BiV upgrade. This was also seen in observational studies of BiV upgrade (−21.0 points and +2.63 ml/kg/min respectively). Conclusions RCTs and observational studies of upgrade to BiV pacing show significant physiological and symptomatic benefit. Observational studies of CSP upgrade show similar benefit with significant improvements in LVEF, LVESV and NYHA class in patients with an even milder degree of baseline LV impairment. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

The Outcome of LM PCI: A Single Center Experience of First 50 Cases without In-site IVUS Facility

Introduction: Left main disease (LMD) is related to significant morbidity and mortality. This study was done to evaluate the clinical major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), including unstable angina, myocardial infarction, heart failure, target vessel revascularization, stroke and death in patients undergoing left main stem stenting without availability of in-site intravascular imaging (IVUS). Methods &amp; Materials: It was a prospective observational study done in National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases &amp; Hospital (NICVD) from March 2014 to June 2019. Our study included 50 patients who underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for left main disease without use of IVUS. All the patients were followed up for 1 year &amp; 2 years, one patient was lost to follow-up. Outcomes included in MACE were death, myocardial infarction, unstable angina, heart failure, stroke and target vessel revascularization (TVR). Results: Fifty patients (mean age 58.4 ± 4.1 years, 44 male, 06 female) were treated with a mean SYNTAX score of 24.8 ± 2.6. Thirty two (64%) patients had stable angina, 17 (34%) had unstable angina/non ST-elevation myocardial infarction, and 1 (02%) had ST-elevation Myocardial infarction. Among the risk factors, 21(42%) had DM, 33 (66%) were hypertensive, 22 (44%) were smoker, 19 (38%) had dyslipidemia, 09 (18%) had previous h/o MI, 11 (22%) had family h/o CAD &amp; 01 (02%) had previous h/o CVD. Preprocedural LVEF was 49.92± 6.60 % and post procedural 54.84 ± 4.55% which showed significant improvement of LVEF after PCI (p=0.003). Most of the patients presented with LM with SVD (82%). Among all patients, 39 (78%) underwent complete revascularization in compare to 11 (22%) had incomplete revascularization. Thirty eight (76%) patients received a single-stent DES and 12 (24%) received two-stents DES. Among double stent strategy, majority underwent TAP (50%). All access was femoral &amp; No reflow phenomena were found in any of the patients during the procedure. No perioperative mortalities were noted and no urgent coronary bypass graft surgery was required. One patient was lost to follow-up. After 1-year follow-up period, 1 (02%) patients had non-fatal myocardial infarction, 7 (14%) had episodes of unstable angina (UA) and 3 (06%) had heart failure (HF). After 2-years there was no new MI but 09 (18%) had UA &amp; 4 (08%) patients had HF episode in total. TLR was 2 (04%) in first year and 3 (06%) in 2nd year. Total mortality was 1(02%) in first year &amp; 3(06%) in 2nd year. The multivariable analysis showed a good prognosis in patients receiving LM PCI with a total event rate of 28% &amp; mortality 6%. A multivariate regression analysis with risk factors for coronary artery disease as predictive variables showed that high SYNTAX score (p = 0.013), incomplete revascularization (p=0.002) &amp; low post procedural LVEF (p= 0.001) was an independent predictor of MACE. Conclusion: Percutaneous coronary intervention of left main coronary disease without use of IVUS showed good prognosis after 1-year &amp; 2-years follow-up. It would not only save a procedure time for physicians but also prevent a financial burden on patients if they cannot afford intravascular imaging. Bangladesh Heart Journal 2022; 37(1): 1-9

Shorter cardiac rehabilitation programs: taking time is taking effectiveness?

Funding AcknowledgementsType of funding sources: None.IntroductionDue to the covid-19 outbreak, cardiac rehabilitation programs (CRP) underwent most needed adaptions to stay operative. To face all the requests and guarantee sanitary measures, we reduced the duration of the program from about 12 weeks to about 8 weeks, so we could have smaller groups but still respond to all patients who had been referred. However, it is still unclear whether less hours of contact and exercise sessions can achieve the same results as traditional CRP.ObjectiveTo analyse the effectiveness of shorter duration CRP on risk factor control and exercise tolerance after concluding the program.MethodsObservational single center study including two groups of patients who underwent CRP: one group who had been in 12 weeks-CRP before the pandemic sprout and another group enrolled in an 8-week program after April 2021. Albeit differences in their duration, both CRP had the same structure: observation by cardiologist, physiatrist, specialist nurse, exercise (aerobic and strength exercises) and educational sessions, as well as nutrition and psychologist consultation.ResultsA total of 114 pts were analysed (mean age 62,4±11,6 years, 85.1% men, 86% with ischemic heart disease). Main comorbidities were hypertension (68,4%), dyslipidaemia (70%) and diabetes (30,7%). 78 pts completed a longer programme with 12 weeks duration while 36 underwent a shorter CRP with 8 weeks. There were no statistically significant differences between both groups regarding population demographics, aetiology, LVEF and co-morbidities.After CRP, there was significant improvement in risk factor control (mainly lipidic profile and weight) and echocardiographic parameters in both groups. We noted an important reduction in LDL levels (85±42.6mg/dL before CRP and 67.68±28.45mg/dL after), approaching the guideline recommended levels (<55mg/dL): 29.8% before vs 42.6% after (p=0.079), with no difference between the two groups (p=0,65). Significant improvement of LVEF was also observed (53% to 57%, p <0.001) without difference between the two groups (p=0.112).Exercise tolerance improved similarly in both groups, assessed by the time of exercise stress test: we registered a global increase of 65 ± 1.38s after CRP, with no difference between the two groups (p = 0.157).ConclusionShorter duration CRP showed similar results concerning risk factor control, echocardiographic LVEF and exercise tolerance improvement, suggesting that they can be an effective alternative when needed.

Betablockers and Ivabradine Titration According to Exercise Test in LV Only Fusion CRT Pacing.

Background: Betablockers (BB)/ivabradine titration in fusion CRT pacing (CRTP) is understudied. Aim: To assess drug optimization using systematic exercise tests (ET) in fusion CRTP with preserved atrioventricular conduction (AVc). Methods: Changes in drug management were assessed during systematic follow-ups in CRTP patients without right ventricle lead. Shorter AVc (PR interval) allowed BB up-titration, while longer AVc needed BB down-titration, favoring ivabradine. Constant fusion pacing was the goal to improve outcomes. Results: 64 patients, 62.5 ± 9.5 y.o divided into three groups: shorter PR (<160 ms), normal (160–200 ms), longer (200–240 ms); follow-up 59 ± 26 months. Drugs were titrated in case of: capture loss due to AVc shortening (14%), AVc lengthening (5%), chronotropic incompetence (11%), maximum tracking rate issues (9%), brady/tachyarrhythmias (8%). Interventions: BB up-titration (78% shorter PR, 19% normal PR, 5% longer PR), BB down-titration (22% shorter PR, 14% normal PR), BB exclusion (16% longer PR), adding/up-titration ivabradine (22% shorter PR, 19% normal PR, 5% longer PR), ivabradine down-titration (22% shorter PR, 3% normal PR), ivabradine exclusion (11% normal PR, 5% longer PR). Drug strategy was changed in 165 follow-ups from 371 recorded (42% patients). Conclusions: BBs/ivabradine titration and routine ET during follow-ups in patients with fusion CRTP should be a standard approach to maximize resynchronization response. Fusion CRTP showed a positive outcome with important LV reverse remodeling and significant LVEF improvement in carefully selected patients.