Symptoms Of Syncope Research Articles

Atrial rates during treated ventricular tachycardia in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators: clinical implications of a vagal sinus node response

Abstract Introduction Autonomic tone plays an important role in the genesis and sustenance of ventricular tachycardia (VT). Whilst sympathetic hyperactivity is an established driver of ventricular arrhythmias, sinus node response during VT varies broadly between patients, and can be paradoxical. Purpose We hypothesized that device-detected changes in sinus node rate could be an important surrogate of the autonomic response to VT, and may exert significant – and potentially modifiable – haemodynamic consequences independent of ventricular activity. Methods Device electrograms were analysed from consecutive patients with dual chamber implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) requiring anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP) or defibrillation for sustained monomorphic VT. Atrial rates were measured before VT onset (‘baseline’) and again at the point of detection by the device. Sinus node response was characterized as ‘stable’ (atrial rate remained within 10% of baseline), ‘sympathetic’ (atrial rate increased >10%) or ‘vagal’ (atrial rate decreased >10%). Patients who did not maintain ventriculoatrial dissociation or who presented in atrial tachyarrhythmia were excluded. Symptoms and electrical response to ICD therapies were recorded. Results 172 treated episodes of VT were included from 97 patients (median age: 69 years, 65% male, 31% ischaemic cardiomyopathy, median ventricular rate: 205bpm, median ejection fraction: 30%). Sinus node response was stable in 55%, sympathetic in 24% and vagal in 21%. A vagal response was associated with ATP-refractory VT (OR: 2.2 (1.1-4.8) p=0.03) and, when adjusting for ventricular rate, was independently associated with symptoms of presyncope or syncope (adjusted OR: 6 (2.7-13.7), p<0.0001). Conclusions This preliminary analysis suggests that a vagal sinus node response during VT is associated with adverse outcomes in ICD patients. Vagolytic therapy has recently been demonstrated to improve haemodynamic tolerance during VT ablation; whether supportive atrial pacing during VT could mitigate symptoms and potentiate arrhythmia termination in ICD patients warrants further exploration. Figure 1: Change in sinus node rate during sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia in patients with dual chamber ICDs, stratified by the occurrence of presyncopal symptoms or syncopeFigure 1

Impact of surgical technique on postoperative ventricular arrhythmias in arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse

Abstract Background Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is associated with progressive mitral regurgitation (MR) requiring surgical correction. A subset of patients with MVP may also constitute an "arrhythmic" phenotype suffering from malignant ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Purpose To assess the impact of surgical technique for correction of degenerative MR including repair using artificial chords, repair with resection and mitral valve replacement (MVR) on longitudinal risk of VAs in patients with arrhythmic MVP. Methods Patients who had undergone mitral valve surgery for MVP with moderate to severe degenerative MR between 2010-2022 at a university hospital in Sweden were retrospectively included. Patients with ischemic heart disease, primary cardiomyopathy, channelopathy, or endocarditis were excluded. To examine changes in VAs (defined as sustained- or non-sustained ventricular tachycardias) as assessed by continuous Holter monitoring before and after surgery, generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were performed to account for the correlations between repeated monitoring in each patient and for differences in the time of measurement. Results Of 599 patients undergoing mitral valve surgery, 423 (71%) underwent repair using artificial chords, 62 (10%) repair with resection and 114 (19%) MVR. For those presenting with symptoms such as palpitations, presyncope, and/or syncope, Holter monitoring was conducted before (n=171; 29%) and/or after mitral valve surgery (n=184; 31%) (Figure 1). The distribution of VAs before and after surgery, stratified by surgical technique, is illustrated in Figure 2. In GEE models, repair using artificial chords was associated with increased postoperative VAs compared with the other surgical techniques (OR 2.14; 95% CI 1.19-3.83; p=0.01), repair with resection with reduced postoperative VAs compared with the other surgical techniques (OR 0.15; 95% CI 0.04-0.61; p=0.01), and no change in postoperative VAs was observed for MVR compared with the other surgical techniques (OR 0.724; 95% CI 0.39-1.35; p=0.31). The results remained similar after adjustment for age, sex, myxomatous disease/fibroelastic deficiency or bileaflet prolapse. Conclusion In patients with symptoms of palpitations, presyncope and/or syncope before or after mitral valve surgery, repair using artificial chords was associated with an increased risk of postoperative VAs. Prospective studies including continuous monitoring before and after surgery are needed to confirm these findings.

Clinical characteristics and prognostic analysis of adult patients hospitalized with acute myocarditis

Objective: To analyze the clinical characteristics of patients hospitalized with acute myocarditis and explore the relevant factors affecting the prognosis. Methods: This study was a retrospective cohort study. Patients with acute myocarditis hospitalized in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University from March 2010 to October 2022 were included and divided into severe myocarditis group and non-severe myocarditis group according to clinical diagnosis results, retrospectively. Basic clinical features were collected and followed up in both groups. The primary endpoint was cardiac death and the secondary endpoint was cardiac re-hospitalization. According to the clinical outcome, Kaplan-Meier survival curve was drawn and assessed via log-rank P test. Cox proportional risk model was established to analyze the related factors affecting the prognosis of patients with acute myocarditis. Results: A total of 235 patients with acute myocarditis were included, including 138 males (58.7%), aged (34±16) years, 102 patients (43.4%) in the severe myocarditis group and 133 patients (56.6%) in the non-severe myocarditis group. Compared with the non-severe myocarditis group, the severe myocarditis group was older and had more clinical symptoms of dyspnea, edema, and syncope. At a follow-up of 3.8 (2.8, 4.8) years, cumulative cardiac mortality and cardiac readmissions in patients with acute myocarditis were 4.2% and 9.6%, respectively. Among them, patients with severe myocarditis had a higher risk of cardiac death and cardiac readmission than those without severe myocarditis (9.3% vs. 1.0%, log-rank P=0.004; 13.4% vs. 4.2%, log-rank P=0.021). Multivariate Cox analysis showed that the independent risk factor for cardiac death in patients with acute myocarditis was elevated serum creatinine level at baseline (HR=1.016, 95%CI: 1.003-1.028, P=0.013). Independent risk factors for cardiogenic readmission were increased left ventricular end-diastolic diameter on admission (HR=1.108, 95%CI: 1.035-1.187, P=0.003) and ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation during hospitalization (HR=6.563, 95%CI: 2.138-20.142, P=0.001). Conclusions: The patients with acute myocarditis had more clinical symptoms of dyspnea, edema, and syncope. Elevated serum creatinine level on admission was an independent risk factor for cardiac death in patients with acute myocarditis; increased end-left ventricular diameter on admission and ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation during hospitalization were independently associated with cardiac rehospitalization.

A higher peak heart rate during head-up tilt test predicts the therapeutic efficacy of metoprolol in vasovagal syncope

BackgroundAlthough beta blockers, such as metoprolol, have been widely used in the management of vasovagal syncope (VVS), their efficacy remains debated, with larger studies showing limited benefit. Identifying patient-specific characteristics that predict a positive response to metoprolol could optimize its use. This study aims to investigate the key factors that may determine which VVS patients are suitable candidates for metoprolol treatment.MethodsThis retrospective study was conducted at a single center. Patients diagnosed with VVS and treated with metoprolol for a minimum of three months were included. A 50% reduction in syncope symptom score (SS) after three months of metoprolol treatment was used to define metoprolol responders, while those who did not achieve this reduction were classified as non-responders. After a three-month follow-up, patients were divided into two groups: responders and non-responders. Baseline data—including age, gender, comorbidities, laboratory tests, and the type of VVS—were analyzed for each patient. Changes in heart rate (HR) and blood pressure during the head-up tilt test (HUTT) were also evaluated between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify potential predictors of metoprolol response, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the value of these predictors in selecting potential responders.ResultsA total of 168 VVS patients were enrolled between January 2016 and December 2020. Of these, 100 patients responded positively to metoprolol, while 68 did not. No significant differences in baseline characteristics or HUTT results were observed between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, responders exhibited a significantly higher peak HR compared to non-responders during the HUTT (120.13 ± 19.33 vs. 106.60 ± 22.32, p < 0.001). The increase in HR was also more pronounced in responders (0.60 ± 0.23 vs. 0.41 ± 0.25, p < 0.001). Additionally, HR variability was significantly greater in responders than in non-responders (16.18 ± 5.51 vs. 12.61 ± 5.50, p < 0.001).ConclusionHigher peak HR, larger increases in HR, and greater HR variability during the HUTT may serve as reliable predictors of a positive response to metoprolol in patients with VVS.

Effect of long-term use of antipsychotics on the ventricular repolarization index

BackgroundThe risk of arrhythmia is usually assessed by the length of the corrected QT interval (QTc) when patients use antipsychotics. Prolonged QTc intervals are thought to increase the probability of malignant ventricular arrhythmias, and if we focus only on the QTc interval, we may be influenced by a single factor and make decisions that are not conducive to effective treatment. The index of cardiac electrophysiological balance (iCEB) is considered more valuable than the QTc for predicting drug-induced arrhythmias. It has been used in clinical practice, but no studies have observed changes in this index after the use of antipsychotics.ObjectiveTo investigate the changes in ventricular repolarization indices and the occurrence of arrhythmias in patients who have been using antipsychotic drugs for a long time, to compare the changes in iCEBc and QTc and to predict abnormal iCEBc values.MethodsPatients with schizophrenia who had been hospitalized for more than 4 years and who were receiving atypical antipsychotics underwent a 12-lead synchronized electrocardiogram (ECG) every 2–4 weeks. The baseline data were measured at admission, defined as the baseline (time0), and the most obvious abnormal changes in ventricular depolarization and repolarization measured every 12 months were one-year follow-up (time1), two-year follow-up (time2), three-year follow-up (time3), and four-year follow-up (time4). Repeated measures analysis of variance was used for comparisons. The types and doses of drugs taken at 5 time points were recorded and converted into chlorpromazine equivalents for comparison. The incidence of arrhythmia during the observation cycle was recorded.ResultsThe patients had been treated with antipsychotic medication for 4 years, and the duration of the QRS wave was longer in males than in females. TpTe, TpTe/QRS, TpTe/QT, TpTe/QTc, iCEB, and iCEBc increased significantly with hospital stay, while TpTe, TpTe/QRS, TpTe/QT, and TpTe/QTc exhibited more obvious changes in these indicators in female patients (P < 0.01). The changes in iCEB and iCEBc were more significant in males (P < 0.01). The incidences of arrhythmia (arrhythmic events included premature ventricular beats and premature atrial beats) within 5 time points were 2.5%, 6.25%, 6.25%, 6.25% and 5%, respectively. More than 90% of patients treated with antipsychotics did not have any arrhythmias. No TdP syncope or other cardiovascular symptoms were found in any of the patients.ConclusionAfter long-term use of antipsychotics, the ventricular repolarization index gradually increased with time. The new ventricular repolarization indices iCEB and iCEBc were more sensitive than the QTc at predicting arrhythmia. According to the abnormal QTc values in men and women, we predict that the abnormal value of the iCEBc in males is 4.528 and that in females is 5.315.

Clinical Impact of Preoperative Symptoms of Aortic Stenosis on Prognosis After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement.

Background: The prognostic significance of different presentations of aortic stenosis (AS) remains unclear. Our aim was to analyze outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) according to preoperative AS symptoms. Methods and Results: We retrospectively enrolled 369 consecutive patients (age 84.3±5.0 years, and 64% females) who underwent TAVR from 2014 to 2021. We divided them into 4 groups by the main preoperative symptom: asymptomatic (n=50), chest pain (n=46), heart failure (HF; n=240), and syncope (n=33). Post-TAVR rates of HF readmission, all-cause death and cardiac death were compared among the 4 groups. The 4 groups showed no significant trends in age, sex, stroke volume index, or echocardiography indices of AS severity. During a follow-up, the overall survival rate at 1 and 5 years after TAVR was 97% and 90% in the asymptomatic group, 96% and 69% in the chest pain group, 93% and 69% in the HF group, and 90% and 72% in the syncope group, respectively. HF and syncope symptom had significantly lower HF readmission or cardiac death-free survival at 5 years after TAVR (log-rank test P=0.038). In the Cox hazard multivariate analysis, preoperative syncope was an independent predictor of future HF readmission or cardiac death after TAVR (HR=9.87; 95% CI 1.67-97.2; P=0.035). Conclusions: AS patients with preoperative syncope or HF had worse outcomes after TAVR than those with angina or no symptoms.

Syncope and Brugada-like ECG pattern in a patient with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH)

Syncope is a brief loss of consciousness caused by reduced blood flow to the brain, characterised by sudden onset, short duration and full recovery without intervention. Anamnesis, physical examination and other diagnostic tests such as laboratory analysis and electrocardiogram (ECG) can be conducted to identify the underlying cause of syncope. A Brugada pattern on an ECG in individuals with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) who have syncope symptoms may indicate cardiac issues. A 69-year-old man with hypertension and a history of smoking presented with syncope. His vital signs were within normal limits, with no signs of a neurological deficit. The patient met the diagnostic criteria for SIADH, as evidenced by the presence of hyponatraemia (Na 118 mmol/l), a hyperosmolar condition and euvolemia. Upon arrival, a twelve-lead ECG showed ST-segment anomalies that reflected a Brugada ECG pattern. No ventricular arrhythmias were detected during the 24-hour Holter monitoring. Coronary angiography revealed no abnormalities in the coronary arteries. The ECG demonstrated the normalisation of ST elevations and the disappearance of the Brugada ECG pattern after the correction of hyponatraemia. After three months of follow-up the patient, with a normal sodium level, had no episodes of syncope.

Efficacy of catheter ablation in ganglionated plexus for malignant vasovagal syncope children.

Malignant vasovagal syncope in children seriously affects their physical and mental health. Our study aimed to explore the efficacy of catheter ablation in ganglionated plexus with malignant vasovagal syncope children. Catheter ablation of ganglionated plexus was safe and effective in children with malignant vasovagal syncope and can be used as a treatment option for these children. A total of 20 children diagnosed with malignant vasovagal syncope were enrolled in Beijing Children's Hospital, affiliated with Capital Medical University. All underwent catheter ablation treatment of ganglionated plexus. Ganglionated plexuses of the left atrium were identified by high-frequency stimulation and/or anatomic landmarks being targeted by radiofrequency catheter ablation. The efficacy of the treatment was evaluated by comparing the remission rate of post-operative syncopal symptoms and the rate of negative head-up tilt results. Safety and adverse events were evaluated. After follow-up for 2.5 (0.6-5) years, the syncope symptom scores were decreased significantly compared with before treatment [3 (2-4) versus 5 (3-8) scores, P < 0.01]. Eighty-five per cent (17/20) children no longer experienced syncope, whilst 80% (16/20) children showed negative head-up tilt test after treatment. No adverse effects such as cardiac arrhythmia occurred in the children.

Permanent Pacemaker Implantation in a Patient with Congenitally Corrected Transposition of Great Arteries and Mesocardia: An Infrequent Happenstance

We present a compelling case of a 37-year-old male who, after three decades of asymptomatic living, was diagnosed with congenitally corrected transposition of great arteries (CCTGA). Initially presenting with troubling symptoms of dizziness and syncope, further evaluation revealed complete heart block, a significant finding necessitating intervention. Despite the rarity of symptomatic presentation in CCTGA, the severity of the heart block prompted the implantation of a DDD pacemaker to ensure adequate management. With meticulous care and precision, the implantation procedure was successfully executed, offering hope for improved cardiac function and symptom relief. Remarkably, the patient remained asymptomatic during subsequent follow-up visits, highlighting the effectiveness of the intervention in mitigating the risks associated with high atrioventricular block in CCTGA. This case serves as a testament to the importance of vigilant monitoring and timely intervention in managing complex cardiac anomalies, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and quality of life.

P-27 Sweet moves - Hemichorea associated with non-ketotic hyperglycemia

Abstract Introduction Hemichorea is a movement disorder characterized by involuntary, irregular, and often violent movements of one hemibody, typically caused by dysfunction in the basal ganglia. There are several potential causes of hemichorea, namely vascular lesions, autoimmune conditions, structural lesions, drugs, or metabolic disturbances, among others. Hemichorea associated with non-ketotic hyperglycemia is a rare condition with a reported prevalence of 1 in 100.000. Although its exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it is believed to be linked to metabolic changes and vascular abnormalities associated with diabetes and its management involves optimizing blood sugar levels. Clinical Case This is the case of a female patient, 76 years old, caucasian with known medical history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia. The woman, admitted to the Neurology department, presented with involuntary movements of the left hemibody and face, with sudden onset, one day before admission. There was no history of visual changes, headache, dizziness, syncope, or other symptoms and there were no recent changes in her usual medication. The neurological examination didn't show any defects other than the choreic movements of the left hemiface and hemibody. Blood tests revealed an HbA1c level of 9.3% and a glucose level of 254 mg/dL. A brain CT scan revealed a possible hypodensity of the right insula, besides signs of microangiopathic leukoencephalopathy. A brain MRI was ordered and showed, on the right putamen, hyperintensity on T1, mild hyperintensity on Flair (Fig.1), and mild hypointensity on T2, without areas of diffusion restriction suggesting ischaemic vascular damage - radiologic findings consistent with hemichorea associated with non-ketotic hyperglycemia. Strict glycemic control was achieved in cooperation with the Endocrinology department, with complete resolution of symptoms. Conclusion Although rare, hyperglycemia should be considered as a potential cause of hemichorea, as correction of the underlying condition will lead to rapid improvement of the movements and is the most important feature for diagnosis. This case shows the myriad of clinical presentations that a person living with Diabetes can have.Figure 1.Brain MRI scan.Brain MRI scan showing, on the right putamen, mild hyperintensity on Flair.

Acute orthostatic responses during early mobilisation of patients with acquired brain injury - Innowalk pro versus standing frame.

Early mobilisation is paramount in the rehabilitation of patients with acquired brain injuries. However, the effectiveness of mobilisation to standing combined with passive leg movement in mitigating orthostatic intolerance remains uncertain. Hence, we investigated whether participants exhibited better tolerance standing in a motorized standing device with passive leg movements, Innowalk Pro, compared to a traditional standing frame. 17 patients with acquired brain injury (<1year post-injury) performed two sessions in each standing device on four separate days. Maximum standing time was 30 min, less when symptoms of syncope or volitional exhaustion occurred. Besides total standing time, electromyography of thigh muscles, and changes in mean arterial pressure and heart rate were monitored at rest and during standing. No significant differences were found in standing time, changes in mean arterial pressure or heart rate between standing in Innowalk Pro and the standing frame. However, participants had significantly more thigh muscle activation (p = 0.006) when standing in Innowalk Pro. Mobilising participants with a subacute acquired brain injury in a standing frame with motorised passive movements of the lower limbs did, despite higher thigh muscle activation, not lead to better orthostatic tolerance or prolonged standing time compared to a traditional standing frame.

What happens to your brainwaves when the heart stops? ASYSTOLE AND THE EEG - a case series and review

Introduction-aim and scope: This article highlights a rare observation in 2 patients admitted to the hospital who were evaluated with simultaneous EEG and EKG monitoring due to having episodic clinical spells suspected as being consistent with seizure activity. What however was noted were episodes of asystole causing syncope and brain wave activity persisted for approximately 24 seconds with other clinical features noted in the case histories including an incipient actual seizure in one case. We believe that these patients were fortunate to have such diagnosis made as risks of sudden cardiac death with asystole are high and may be associated with catastrophic neurologic injury and outcomes, and these patients were able to be referred for subsequent cardiac electrophysiologic evaluation and further management1-4. Rationale: This report highlights 2 clinical patients with asystole while being monitored with Video EEG (Electroencephalogram) with EKG (Electrocardiogram) that have a complete dataset available for study. One patient exhibited clinical symptoms of syncope and hypoperfusion and one patient after asystole exhibited subsequent electrographic seizure activity. This article descriptively and retrospectively reviews these rarely noted cases and the clinicopathologic details. Methods: In a hospital system with currently a level 4 epilepsy center that is a member of the US NAEC-National Association of Epilepsy Centers, two patients with asystole were identified as above. This publication provides a retrospective descriptive analysis of two cases that had a complete clinical data set. Results: Asystole is associated with clinical cerebral hypo perfusion in one case, and in another case, hypo perfusion with the EEG features of hypo perfusion similar to the first case however such is followed by actual electrographic seizure activity. We postulate that these findings may be rarely-recorded manifestations during asystole and deserve further study. Successful clinical management of these cases along with the EEG manifestations are described in the article. Electrocerebral rhythms in both cases persist for approximately 24 seconds after asystole although the exact delineation of the cerebral flow dynamics are not completely understood in this retrospective observational study. Conclusions: The cases delineate that the pathophysiology and the concomitant use of EEG and EKG monitoring with video during asystole deserve further study as clinical manifestations may not be identified otherwise without such recordings. Monitoring patients with simultaneous Video EEG and EKG recordings may be necessary for optimal diagnostic assessment and therapeutic outcome where clinical decision making by multidisciplinary subspecialty care teams can ensue in real time as noted in this article.

Development and validation of a scoring system to predict vasovagal reaction upon whole-blood donation.

Risk factors for vasovagal reaction (VVR) have been extensively studied. With knowledge of the relative importance of these risk factors for VVR, collection staff could take care of blood donors from the same standpoint, leading to improved donor safety. We therefore developed a scoring system to predict VVR, which incorporates registration information. Pre-syncopal and syncopal symptoms, as well as on- and off-site reactions, are included in this analysis as VVR. We defined the donor status as follows: first-time donors, repeat donors with no history of reaction and repeat donors with a history of reaction. We prepared two datasets: whole-blood donations at a blood donation site in Tokyo between January 2019 and December 2019 were included in training data (n = 361,114), and whole-blood donations between January 2020 and August 2020 were included in testing data (n = 216,211). The most important variable was the donor status, followed by age, estimated blood volume and height. We integrated them into a scoring system. Training and testing datasets were combined (n = 577,325), and VVR rates in groups with scores of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 or more were 0.09% (95% CI: 0.081%-0.10%), 0.33% (95% CI: 0.31%-0.36%), 0.87% (95% CI: 0.78%-0.96%), 1.17% (95% CI: 1.05%-1.30%), 2.15% (95% CI: 1.98%-2.32%) and 3.11% (95% CI: 2.90%-3.34%), respectively. The scoring system enables staff to significantly predict VVR and may help them to identify donors at increased risk of experiencing syncope, thereby mitigating the negative impact of VVR on donor safety and return by paying close attention to high-risk donors.

The Polish adaptation of the blood donation fears inventory

Background and objectivesGiven the decline in the number of voluntary blood donors in Poland and the lack of psychological research on blood donors and the donation system in the country, there is a need to develop a tool to measure barriers to recruiting new donors and retaining active donors. One significant barrier is the presence of specific fears associated with the blood donation process. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to perform the Polish adaptation of the Blood Donation Fears Inventory (the BDFI). Materials and methodsThe Polish adaptation of the BDFI was developed and tested on a sample of 409 individuals, consisting of 194 (47.5%) voluntary blood donors and 214 (52.5%) non-donors. The original tool comprises an 18-item scale that measures four different types of fears related to the blood donation process: (1) Fear of Syncopal Symptoms, (2) Fear of Blood and Needles, (3) Fear of Social Evaluation, and (4) Fear of Health Screen Results. ResultsTo determine the psychometric properties of the scale, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (RMSEA =.098; CFI =.958; TLI =.935; SRMR =.035), second-order factor analysis (RMSEA =.097; CFI =.958; TLI =.936; SRMR =.036; NNFI =.936; NFI =.938), and bifactor analysis (RMSEA =.093; CFI =.969; TLI =.942; SRMR =.036; NNFI =.942; NFI =.952) were conducted. The reliability of the tool was assessed using Cronbach's Alpha and McDonald's Omega, resulting in high coefficients (ranging from.92 to.97) for each scale. Internal consistency was examined using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), while external consistency was examined using the Scale of Positive and Negative Experience (SPANE) and the Self-esteem Scale (SES). ConclusionSatisfactory results were obtained, establishing the Polish adaptation of the BDFI. This tool represents a novel contribution to the research on the blood donation system in Poland

Gastrointestinal: Unusual cause of recurrent bradycardia and syncopal symptoms.

Gastrointestinal: Unusual cause of recurrent bradycardia and syncopal symptoms.

VALVULAR HEART DISEASE MANAGED WITH AYURVEDA TREATMENT - A CASE STUDY

Aortic stenosis (AS) is one of the heart's most common and severe valve diseases. Narrowing of the valve more commonly develops during aging. It influences genetic factors, hormones, lipid infiltration, inflammation, and calcification on valves, resulting in a restricted amount of blood flow through the valve. Patients of AS become prostrated and suffer from breathlessness, angina, syncope, palpitations, heart murmur, and other symptoms de-pending on their severity grade. It is a burning health issue, with more than one million new cases per year in India. Yet, there is no solace for AS in the contemporary medicinal system, and surgery has many more limita-tions in older adults. Time-trusted Ayurveda treatment modalities are merited in senior management by trimming down degenerative processes and enhancing the quality of health. Presenting a geriatric, severe AS case report, who otherwise was suggested to undergo valve replacement surgery, was treated with oral medications of Hrudroga chikitsa, which significantly improved the functional ability of the heart and quality of life.

Cardioneuroablation for pediatric patients with functional sinus node dysfunction and paroxysmal atrioventricular block.

Severe transitory episodes of bradycardia with subsequent syncope in children are common, and generally portend a benign prognosis. Rarely, patients may experience prolonged asystolic episodes secondary to significant sinus pauses (SP)or paroxysmal atrioventricular block (AVB).Cardioneuroablation (CNA)is a catheter-based intervention, used to identify and ablate the epicardial ganglionated plexi (GP),which results in disruption of the vagal-mediated parasympathetic input to the sinus and atrioventricular node. Describe the methodology and role of CNA for treatment of pediatric patients with functional AVB or SP. This is a single-center, case series study. Patients with SP or AVB, 21 years of age or younger, who underwent CNA between 2015 and 2021 were included. CNA was performed via anatomically guided and high-frequency stimulation methods. Six patients were included. The median age was 18.9 years (range 12.3-20.9 years), 33% female. Two patients had prolonged SP, two had paroxysmal AVB, and two had both SP and AVB. Four patients had prior syncope. The median longest pause was 8.9 s (range 3.9-16.8) with 11 total documented pauses (range 2-231) during the 6 months pre-CNA. Post-CNA,the median longest pause was 1.3 s (range 0.8-2.2) with one documented SP after termination of atrial tachycardia at the 3-month follow-up. At 6 months, the median longest pause was 1.1 s (0.8-1.3) with 0 documented pauses. No patients had syncope post-CNA. CNAmay be an effective alternative to pacemaker implantation in pediatric patients with syncope or significant symptoms secondary to functional SP or AVB.

Cardioneuroablation for successful treatment of symptomatic bradycardia in a 12-year-old child after a 6-month follow-up

BackgroundCardioneuroablation (CNA) is recognized as a promising therapeutic option for adults with severe symptomatic bradycardia caused by excessive vagal tone. However, no pediatric cases have been reported to date. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of CNA in children.MethodsA 12-year-old male patient was hospitalized with symptoms of fatigue, palpitations, and syncope for more than 2 months, and was definitively diagnosed with functional sinoatrial node dysfunction by using a 12-lead electrocardiogram, 24-h Holter monitoring, loading dose of atropine test (0.04 mg/kg), and treadmill exercise test. Simultaneously, whole-exome sequencing was performed on the child and his core family members. After completing the preoperative examination and signing the informed consent form, the child underwent CNA therapy.ResultsFirst, the electroanatomic structures of both atria were mapped out by using the Carto 3 system, according to the protocol of purely anatomy-guided and local fractionated intracardiac electrogram–guided CNA methods. Then, the local fractionated intracardiac electrograms of each cardiac ganglionated plexus (GP), including the GP between the aortic root and the medial wall of the superior vena cava, the GP between the posterior wall of the coronary sinus ostium and the left atrium, the GP between the anterior antrum of the right superior pulmonary vein and the superior vena cava, the GP in the superolateral area around the root of the left superior pulmonary vein, the GP around the root of the right inferior pulmonary vein, and the GP around the root of the left inferior pulmonary vein, were used as targets for ablation at a power of 30 W with an ablation index of 350–400. At a 6-month follow-up, the child's heart rhythm saw a complete restoration to sinus rhythm and clinical symptoms disappeared.ConclusionThe first application of CNA in a child with symptomatic sinus bradycardia was achieved with better clinical outcomes. CNA can be carried out cautiously in children under suitable indications.

Patient-reported functional and symptomatic outcomes in patients with mild cognitive disorder undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation - A secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background The impact of pre-existing mild cognitive disorder (MCD) on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) remains unclear. Purpose To investigate functional and symptomatic outcomes after TAVI in patients with or without MCD at two German tertiary care centers as part of a randomised controlled trial (TAVI-COMIC study). Methods Adult patients undergoing elective TAVI were enrolled. MCD was defined by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) &amp;lt;26 points. PROMs were assessed at 90 days after TAVI. Results Of 199 patients, 109 (54.8%) showed MCD. Female patients had significantly more often MCD (49.5% vs. 34.4%, p=0.046). Prior to TAVI, 21.6% reported dyspnea (NYHA class III-IV), 35.1% angina (CCS class II-IV), 41.2% dizziness and 12.6% syncope. Both patient groups reported similar improvements in general health status after TAVI: "marginally or significantly better" health status in 73.5% with MCD vs. 68.9% without MCD (p=n.s.). In multivariable logistic regression models, the number of patients reporting a "good, very good or excellent" general health status after TAVI was similar in both patient groups (p=n.s.) (Table). Similarly, post-TAVI symptoms of dyspnea, angina, dizziness or syncope were similar between both groups (each p=n.s.). Procuration and walking ability without difficulties as well as functional independence were 54% [95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.23-0.92] (p=0.028), 55% [95% CI 0.22-0.89] (p=0.023) and 52% [95% CI 0.24-0.94] (p=0.035) less frequently reported by patients with MCD compared to patients without MCD, respectively. Of note, delirium was more frequently observed in patients with MCD within 3 days after TAVI (8.3% vs. 1.1%, p=0.049). Conclusions TAVI appeared to result in similar improvements in general health status and symptomatic PROMs in patients with and without MCD. Though, patients with MCD reported impaired functional PROMs after TAVI. More careful post-procedural care should be taken for patients with MCD to enhance functional independence in this vulnerable patient group.

Prevalence and awareness of vasovagal syncope in a large cohort study

Abstract Background Despite the important nature of vasovagal syncope, the true prevalence of this disorder is not fully determined. Based on the limited data available in the literature, among young medical students less than 21 years, the prevalence of vasovagal syncope has been estimated to be 39%, increasing to 50% in life time for all subjects. There are no robust studies with adequately powered sample size to assess the prevalence of this disorder in the general population. Purpose In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of vasovagal syncope in a large general population by conducting a cross-sectional survey. Methods A systematic sampling method was used to enroll a representative sample of adults from all metropolitan areas. A total of 4,215 households including 9,170 adults over 35 years were invited for interviews and 8,296 individuals (90.5%) participated in the study. The participants were interviewed using comprehensive questionnaire, detailed history, 12 leads electrocardiogram and physical examination. Participants with a history of transient loss of consciousness were asked to complete detailed assessments based on the Calgary Syncope Symptom Score. Results Of the 8,296 subjects, 447 (5.4%) reported transient loss of consciousness and 406 (4.9%) had a score greater than -2 on the Calgary Syncope Symptom Score in favor of vasovagal syncope. The overall prevalence of vasovagal syncope was 4.9% (73.7% were female). The percentage was 2.9 and 6.5 in men and women respectively. Although 53% of the patients had 2 or more syncopal attacks in their lifetime and 23% of all attacks were traumatic, only 26 percent of patients were aware of the diagnosis and consulted a physician. The age distribution of vasovagal syncope in women after 25 years follows a decreasing pattern. In men, the prevalence of syncope increases until the age of 50 and decreases thereafter (Figure). There were no differences between patients with vasovagal syncope and other participants in terms of ECG findings and cardiovascular risk factors (Table). Conclusions Vasovagal syncope has a notable prevalence in the general population and women are mostly affected. Recurrences (even traumatic ones) happen but only a few of patients know their diagnosis and basic treatments such as life style modifications. This is the first study to report the prevalence of vasovagal syncope in the general population and population-based educational programs are strongly recommended given the high recurrence rate, risk of trauma and decreased quality of life.