Two-dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography Research Articles

Multimodal echocardiography for assessing whether left ventricular geometry affects right atrial phasic function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: A cross-sectional observational study.

Recent studies have shown that right atrial (RA) function are important predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, the study data about RA phasic function in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) patients are scarce, especially based on the left ventricular geometry. So, we aimed to assess the influence of left ventricular geometry on RA phasic function in OSAS patients via a multimodal echocardiographic approach. Total of 235 OSAS patients were enrolled in this cross-section study and underwent complete clinical, polysomnography, and echocardiography examinations. The OSAS patients were divided into four groups based on left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and relative wall thickness (RWT): normal geometry (NG), concentric remodeling (CR), concentric hypertrophy (CH), and eccentric hypertrophy (EH). RA phasic function was evaluated via multimodal echocardiography approach (two-dimensional echocardiography biplane method [2DE]; two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography [2D-STE]; and three-dimensional echocardiography [3DE]). The multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between left ventricular geometry and RA phasic function. The RA volume and indices increased from NG to CR to EH to CH. RA total emptying fraction and RA strain during systole decreased from NG to CR to EH to CH. RA passive emptying fraction and RA strain during early diastole similarly decreased. RA active emptying fraction and RA strain during late diastole also gradually increased similarly. In analyses that adjusted for gender, age, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, apnea-hypopnea index, LVMI, systolic pulmonary artery pressure, and right ventricular free wall thickness, CH was associated with RA reservoir and conduit function via 2DE area-length method, whereas CH and EH were associated with RA reservoir and conduit function via 2D-STE and 3DE method. Further, CH was associated with RA booster pump function via 2DE area-length method, 2D-STE, and 3DE method. The RA volumes and phasic function varied with left ventricular geometry via multimodal echocardiography approach. CH had the apparent negative effect on RA phasic function.

Left atrial strain defines functional and structural remodeling in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation

Abstract Background Left atrial (LA) strain is an echocardiographic method to detect atrial dysfunction as a process of structural and functional remodeling of the atria. In patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), functional changes and an enlargement of the LA due to structural remodeling has been described. The aim of our study was 1) the echocardiographic assessment of LA function using LA strain and 2) to investigate the correlation between LA strain and left atrial size index (LAVI) using 3D reconstruction of the LA from multi-detector computed tomography (CT). Methods This study includes patients with persistent AF who underwent LA catheter ablation without prior treatment. All subjects underwent measurement of reservoir (LASr), conduit (LAScd) and contraction (LASct) LA strain using imaging using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) and cardiac CT. A 3D reconstruction of the LA from the CT was done using EnSite Verismo (Abbott, USA). The LA volume obtained at the end-systole included LA appendage reconstruction and excluded the pulmonary veins. LAVI was calculated by dividing LA volume by body surface area. Results The study included 36 patients (mean age 69 yrs [49 to 80 yrs], 27 male, mean LV-EF 56% [40 to 78%). We found the following LA strain measurement: mean LASr 21% [6 to 52%], mean LAScd -12% [-32 to -0,25%] and mean LASct -9% [-32 to -1%]. LAVI: mean 82 ml/m² [38 to 127 ml/m²]. There is a statistically significant negative correlation between LASr (p = 0.002, r = -0.503) and a statistically positive correlation between LASct (p = 0.003, r = 0.482) compared to the LA volume, whereas there is no statistically significant correlation between LAScd and the LA volume (p = 0.088, r = 0.288). Discussion LA strain in patients with persistent AF as an expression of functional remodeling is reduced compared to normal values in literature. Correlation of LA strain and LAVI are statistically significant for LASr as well as LASct. The correlation between LAScd and LAVI did not reach statistical significance but shows a trend towards a positive correlation. Whether early treatment of AF could prevent further fibrotic remodeling with reducing LA volume and improving LA strain needs further research.

Left atrial strain measurement in patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation compared to a control group

Abstract Background Left atrial (LA)-strain measurement is a non-invasive and widely available echocardiographic method to detect atrial cardiomyopathy as a process of structural and functional remodeling. The aim of this study is to measure LA-strain in patients with heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF), compared to patients without structural heart disease and to evaluate whether or not LA-Strain could be part of a multi-modality assessment that influences therapy strategies and prognosis in patients suffering AF. Methods This study includes 18 patients with HF in sinus rhythm who underwent CRT implantation (HF group), 25 patients with persistent AF and preserved ejection fraction (EF) who underwent left atrial catheter ablation (AF group) and 22 patients without structural heart disease or AF who underwent electrophysiological study (control group). All subjects received measurement of reservoir (LASr), conduit (LAScd) and contraction (LASct) LA strain imaging using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). Results Patient characteristics in the HF-group showed mean age 68y (SD 10,6), mean EF 29% (SD 6,8), 66% male compared to the AF-group with mean age 66y (SD 8.0), mean EF 60% (SD 5.1), 68% male. The control-group showed mean age 55y (SD 13.8), mean EF 60% (SD 5.4), 55% male. For LASr we found normal values in the control groups and reduced values in the HF und AF group (HF: mean 20% [9 – 45%], AF: mean 24% [7 – 52%], control: mean 42% [30 – 67%]). In LASr, LAScd and LASct there was a statistically significant difference between the HF and the control group (p < 0.001) as well as the AF and control group (p < 0.001), whereas there was no difference between AF and HF group (p = 0.444). Discussion Patients with persistent AF show similar LA-strain compared to patients with HF and patients without structural heart disease present significant better LA strains. The findings of this study suggest, that LA strain analysis might contribute to comprehensive assessment of patients with AF especially as a simple imaging method. A limitation of our results could be the significant younger age of our control group (p = 0.004) as fibrotic remodeling increases in advanced age. It remains to be analyzed whether early AF treatment could prevent further fibrotic remodeling and whether measuring LA strain could provide further information for risk stratification and the definition of therapeutic intervention strategies.

Assessment of cardiac adverse events following COVID-19 vaccination by speckle tracking echocardiography

Cardiac discomfort has been reported periodically in COVID-19-vaccinated individuals. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the role of myocardial strains in the early assessment of the clinical presentations after COVID-19 vaccination. Totally, 121 subjects who received at least one dose of vaccine within 6 weeks underwent laboratory tests, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echocardiogram. Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) was implemented to analyze changes in the left ventricular myocardium. After vaccination, 66 individuals (55.4 ± 17.4 years) developed cardiac discomforts, such as chest tightness, palpitations, dyspnea, and chest pain. The ECG readings exhibited both premature ventricular contractions and premature atrial contractions (n = 24, 36.4%), while none of the individuals in the control group manifested signs of cardiac arrhythmia. All had normal serum levels of creatine phosphokinase, creatine kinase myocardial band, troponin, N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide, platelets, and D-dimer. Left ventricular ejection fraction in the symptomatic group (71.41% ± 7.12%) and the control group (72.18% ± 5.11%) (p = 0.492) were normal. Use of 2D-STE presented global longitudinal strain (GLS) and global circumferential strain (GCS) was reduced in the symptomatic group (17.86% ± 3.22% and 18.37% ± 5.22%) compared to the control group (19.54% ± 2.18% and 20.73% ± 4.09%) (p = 0.001 and p = 0.028). COVID-19 vaccine-related cardiac adverse effects can be assessed early by 2D-STE. The prognostic implications of GLS and GCS enable the evaluation of subtle changes in myocardial function after vaccination.

Improvement in Left Ventricular Function of the Resected Myocardium after Septal Myectomy in Patients with Aortic Valve Replacement

Background: Some surgeons have previously advocated for a more aggressive concomitant septal myectomy to address left ventricular outflow tract obstruction; however, concerns about the surgical complications of post-septal myectomy remain. Here, we aimed to assess the clinical, echocardiographic, and pathological findings following concomitant septal myectomy with surgical aortic valve replacement. Methods: We reviewed 21 patients who underwent surgical aortic valve replacement and concomitant septal myectomy from April 2014 to September 2019. The global and regional left ventricular ejection fraction changes between the perioperative periods were analyzed using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. The resected myocardium was pathologically assessed. Results: No operative mortality was observed during the study period. Transthoracic echocardiography showed no significant differences in preoperative and postoperative left ventricular ejection fraction (68.1 ± 9.9% vs. 68.6 ± 6.0%, p = 0.82) or interventricular septum thickness (11.9 ± 1.4 mm vs. 11.5 ± 1.5 mm, p = 0.23). Interventricular septum thickness at the end-systolic phase, which is the maximum septal wall thickness, was significantly reduced postoperatively (27.7 ± 9.3 mm vs. 22.6 ± 5.5 mm, p < 0.05). The basal, mid, and apical septal areas improved with septal myectomy by 80%, 230%, and 27%, respectively, compared to perioperative echocardiography (basal septal, 80 ± 23%; mid septal, 230 ± 830%; apical septal, 27 ± 350%). Pathological examination of the resected myocardium revealed marked endocardial thickness (mean, 914 µm) with focal fibrosis. Conclusions: In aortic valve stenosis patients with septal hypertrophy, concomitant septal myectomy with surgical aortic valve replacement improved regional myocardial function and eliminated left ventricular outflow tract obstruction by removing thickened endocardium and prominent fibrosis.

Epicardial Adipose Tissue and Left Ventricular Systolic Function in Rheumatoid Arthritis Assessed by Two-Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography.

Introduction Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is an emerging cardiovascular biomarker. Subclinical left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction is common in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The aim of this study was to assess LV systolic function using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) and investigate its association with EAT in RA patients without clinical cardiovascular disease (CVD). Methods 60 RA patients without manifestations of CVD and 60 age- and gender-matched healthy controls have been recruited for the study. We assessed LV systolic function and EAT in all subjects using conventional echocardiography and 2D-STE. EAT was measured as the relative echo-free region between the free wall of the right ventricle and the visceral layer of the pericardium at end-systole. Results Global longitudinal strain (GLS) was decreased and EAT was increased in the RA group compared to the control group. GLS was reduced as EAT increased in RA patients (r=-0.273, P=0.035). After adjusting for confounders, multivariate linear regression analysis revealed a weakened correlation between EAT and GLS.Age and disease activity scores28 were independent factors influencing GLS in RA. Conclusion RA patients have significantly thickened EAT compared with controls. 2D-STE can detect early LV myocardial systolic dysfunction in RA, as shown by lower GLS.Accumulation of EAT is associated with lower GLS, but older age and higher disease activity may play a greater role in LV myocardial systolic dysfunction in RA.

Comparison between left bundle branch area pacing and right ventricular pacing: ventricular electromechanical synchrony and risk of atrial high-rate episodes.

The electromechanical dyssynchrony associated with right ventricular pacing (RVP) has been found to have adverse impact on clinical outcomes. Several studies have shown that left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) has superior pacing parameters compared with RVP. We aimed to assess the difference in ventricular electromechanical synchrony and investigate the risk of atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) in patients with LBBAP and RVP. We consecutively identified 40 patients with atrioventricular block and no prior atrial fibrillation. They were divided according to the ventricular pacing sites: the LBBAP group and the RVP group (including the right ventricular apical pacing (RVA) group and the right side ventricular septal pacing (RVS) group). Evaluation of ventricular electromechanical synchrony was implemented using electrocardiogram and two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). AHRE was defined as event with an atrial frequency of ≥176 bpm lasting for ≥6 min recorded by pacemakers during follow-up. The paced QRS duration of the LBBAP group was significantly shorter than that of the other two groups: LBBAP 113.56 ± 9.66 ms vs. RVA 164.73 ± 14.49 ms, p < 0.001; LBBAP 113.56 ± 9.66 ms vs. RVS 148.23 ± 17.3 ms, p < 0.001. The LBBAP group showed shorter maximum difference (TDmax), and standard deviation (SD) of the time to peak systolic strain among the 18 left ventricular segments, and time of septal-to-posterior wall motion delay (SPWMD) compared with the RVA group (TDmax, 87.56 ± 56.01 ms vs. 189.85 ± 91.88 ms, p = 0.001; SD, 25.40 ± 14.61 ms vs. 67.13 ± 27.40 ms, p < 0.001; SPWMD, 28.75 ± 21.89 ms vs. 99.09 ± 46.56 ms, p < 0.001) and the RVS group (TDmax, 87.56 ± 56.01 ms vs. 156.46 ± 55.54 ms, p = 0.003; SD, 25.40 ± 14.61 ms vs. 49.02 ± 17.85 ms, p = 0.001; SPWMD, 28.75 ± 21.89 ms vs. 91.54 ± 26.67 ms, p < 0.001). The interventricular mechanical delay (IVMD) was shorter in the LBBAP group compared with the RVA group (-5.38 ± 9.31 ms vs. 44.82 ± 16.42 ms, p < 0.001) and the RVS group (-5.38 ± 9.31 ms vs. 25.31 ± 21.36 ms, p < 0.001). Comparing the RVA group and the RVS group, the paced QRS duration and IVMD were significantly shorter in the RVS group (QRS duration, 164.73 ± 14.49 ms vs. 148.23 ± 17.3 ms, p = 0.02; IVMD, 44.82 ± 16.42 ms vs. 25.31 ± 21.36 ms, p = 0.022). During follow-up, 2/16 (12.5%) LBBAP patients, 4/11 (36.4%) RVA patients, and 8/13 (61.5%) RVS patients had recorded novel AHREs. LBBAP was proven to be independently associated with decreased risk of AHREs than RVP (log-rank p = 0.043). LBBAP generates narrower paced QRS and better intro-left ventricular and biventricular contraction synchronization compared with traditional RVP. LBBAP was associated with a decreased risk of AHREs compared with RVP.

Two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography in left ventricular systolic function in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus.

To investigate whether two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) can be considered a criterion for early left ventricular (LV) systolic impairment in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and to further explore the association with each other. We included 38 patients with SLE and assessed the degree of disease activity according to the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) 2000 scoring criteria, together with 38 healthy controls who were matched by sex and age. Routine LV systolic function evaluation parameters were obtained by echocardiography as well as 2DSTE measurement of LV strain parameters to obtain global longitudinal strain (GLS) values, respectively. (I) On routine LV function parameters such as ejection fractions (EF) and left ventricular end-diastolic internal diameter (LVIDd), the SLE group and the control group did not reflect differences. In contrast, on the LV strain parameter obtained from 2DSTE measurements, the GLS values in all cardiac planes were lower in the SLE group than in the control group and showed statistically significant differences. (II) Correlation analysis showed that there was a correlation between SLEDAI and GLS, especially a meaningful correlation with GLS Avg and GLS A4C, with correlation coefficients of 0.35 and 0.47, respectively. The use of 2DSTE can detect early impaired LV systolic function in SLE patients, and GLS is progressively gaining attention as an indicator of subclinical myocardial injury and LV function in SLE patients. The correlation that exists between GLS and SLEDAI might contribute to a better assessment of cardiac involvement in SLE patients. Key Points • Cardiac involvement has become one of the major factors in the poor prognosis of SLE patients, which directly affects the mortality of SLE patients. Traditional echocardiography is difficult to detect early left ventricular function impairment, thus affecting clinicians' judgment and diagnosis. • 2DSTE can recognize subclinical myocardial injury in SLE patients at an early stage, and its derived strain parameters may be used as an indicator to evaluate myocardial involvement and reflect disease activity in SLE patients.

L-carnitine decreases myocardial injury in children undergoing open-heart surgery: A randomized controlled trial

Myocardial injury in open-heart surgery is related to several factors including ischemia–reperfusion injury, generation of reactive oxygen species, increased production of inflammatory mediators, and enhancement of apoptosis of cardiomyocytes. The aim of this study was to study the effect of L-carnitine on myocardial injury in children undergoing open-heart surgery. This clinical trial was performed on 60 children with congenital heart disease (CHD) who underwent open-heart surgery. They were randomized into two groups: L-carnitine group who received L-carnitine 50 mg\\kg\\day once daily for 1 month before cardiac surgery and control group who received placebo for 1 month before cardiac surgery. Left ventricular cardiac function was assessed by conventional echocardiography to measure left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) to determine left ventricular global longitudinal strain (2D-LV GLS). Blood samples were obtained pre-operatively at baseline before the administration of L-carnitine or placebo and 12 h post-operatively to measure the level of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), fas, caspase-3, creatinine kinase-MB (CK-MB), and troponin I. L-carnitine group had significantly lower post-operative level of oxidative stress marker (MDA), apoptosis markers (fas and caspase-3), and myocardial injury markers (CK-MB and troponin I), but they had significantly higher SOD post-operative level compared to the control group. In addition, post-operative LVEF and 2D-LVGLS were significantly lower in the control group compared to L-carnitine group. Conclusion: L-carnitine can reduce myocardial injury, improve post-operative left ventricular cardiac function, and may provide myocardium protection in children with CHD who underwent open-heart surgery. Trial registration: The clinical trial was registered at www.pactr.org with registration number PACTR202010570607420 at 29/10/2020 before recruiting the patients.What is Known:• Myocardial injury in open-heart surgery is related to several factors including ischemia–reperfusion injury, generation of reactive oxygen species, increased production of inflammatory mediators, and enhancement of apoptosis of cardiomyocytes.• L-carnitine was reported to have myocardial protective effects in rheumatic valvular surgery and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) in adults; however, there is no evidence on its effectiveness in children undergoing open-heart surgery.What is New:• L-carnitine significantly lowered the post-operative level of oxidative stress marker (MDA), apoptosis markers (fas and caspase-3), and myocardial injury markers (CK-MB and troponin I) in the treatment group.• L-carnitine can reduce myocardial injury, improve post-operative left ventricular cardiac function, and may provide myocardium protection in children with CHD who underwent open-heart surgery.

Assessment of left atrial function by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease

BackgroundMetabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) and cardiovascular diseases have mutual risk factors that contribute to pathogenic processes, increasing mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate variations in left ventricular (LV) structure and diastolic function among different subtypes and severity degrees of MAFLD patients, allowing early identification, intervention, and prevention of severe cardiac outcomes in high-risk populations.ResultsThe cross-sectional study included 142 MAFLD patients and 142 non-MAFLD participants as a control group. All participants underwent abdominal ultrasound, transient elastography, transthoracic echocardiography, tissue Doppler, and strain imaging. The results showed a significant impairment in the diastolic left ventricular function, as assessed with tissue Doppler, and the left atrial (LA) function, as evaluated with strain imaging, in the MAFLD group. Additionally, the left atrial stiffness was significantly higher in the MAFLD group.ConclusionThe use of strain imaging facilitated the detection of subtle impairments of the left atrial reservoir, contraction, conduit function, and left ventricular diastolic function in MAFLD patients.

Unveiling Cardiac Involvement in Juvenile Dermatomyositis Through Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography.

Early detection of cardiac involvement in Juvenile Dermatomyositis (JDM) is difficult due to the absence of clinical signs and symptoms, with systolic dysfunction often emerging in late stages and associated with a poor prognosis. This study aimed to employ two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) for subclinical assessment of left ventricular (LV) systolic failure in JDM and explore potential associations between impaired LV systolic function (LV-GLS) and disease activity. A prospective study enrolled 20 healthy volunteers and 26 JDM patients (< 18years old) without cardiac symptoms. Clinical data were collected from medical records, and echocardiograms were conducted by a pediatric cardiologist. Our study cohort demonstrated similar age to controls (13.5 ± .6 vs. 13.8 ± 4.7; p = 0.465). Median illness duration at echocardiography was 5 (1.5-17.5) years, and conventional echocardiography indicated normal LV ejection fraction (> 55%) in all participants. However, STE revealed lowered LV GLS in JDM patients (-22.2 ± 4.1% vs. -26.5 ± 5.3% p = 0.022). Pulse steroid users displayed lower GLS average values compared to non-users (β = 4.99, 95% CI 1.34-8.64, p = 0.009). Negative correlations existed between LV-GLS and age at diagnosis (r = -0.499; p = 0.011), diastolic parameters (E/E' ratio) and age at diagnosis (r = -0.469; p = 0.018), as well as RV global strain and age at diagnosis (r = -0.443; p = 0.024). Employing STE in JDM patients facilitated the identification of preclinical cardiac dysfunction. Given JDM patients' younger age, early myocardial damage detection through STE may impact treatment decisions and long-term cardiovascular prognosis.

Right ventricular dyssynchrony for the prediction of prognosis in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus-aaociated pulmonary arterial hypertension: a study with two-dimensional speckle tracking.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a common complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and PAH can cause right ventricle (RV) remodel and dyssynchrony. The aim of this study was to explore the value of RV dyssynchrony in predicting adverse clinical events in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus-aaociated pulmonary arterial hypertension (SLE-PAH) using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). A total of 53 patients with SLE-PAH were enrolled in this study. The dyssynchrony of the RV (RV-SD6) was evaluated by 2D-STE. The clinical data of all participants were collected, and routine cardiac function parameters were measured by two-dimensional echocardiography, and analyzed for their correlation with RV-SD6. The predictive value of RV-SD6 in clinical adverse event was evaluated. RV-SD6 was negatively correlated with RV-FLS, RV-FAC, and TAPSE (r = -0.788, r = -0.363 and r = -0.325, respectively, all P < 0.01), while the correlation with RV-FLS was the strongest. linear regression analysis showed that RV-FLS was an independent risk factor for RV-SD6 (β = -1.40, 95% CI -1.65 ~ -1.14, P < 0.001). Cox regression analysis showed that RV-SD6 was a predictor with clinical adverse events (HR = 1.03, 95% CI 1 ~ 1.06, P < 0.05). RV-SD6 was highly discriminative in predicting clinical adverse events (AUC = 0.764), at a cutoff of 51.10ms with a sensitivity of 83.3% and specificity of 68.3%. RV-FLS was negatively correlated with RV-SD6 and was an independent risk factor for it. RV-SD6 can serve as an indicator for predicting the occurrence of adverse clinical events in SLE-PAH patients, with high sensitivity and specificity.

Fetal Left Ventricle Function Evaluated by Two-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography across Clinical Stages of Severity in Growth-Restricted Fetuses.

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) can result in adverse perinatal outcomes due to cardiac dysfunction. This study used 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography to assess left ventricle (LV) longitudinal strain across FGR severity stages. A prospective longitudinal cohort study measured global (GLS) and segmental LV longitudinal strain in FGR fetuses, with evaluations conducted at various time points. FGR was classified into subtypes based on published criteria using fetal weight centile and Doppler parameters. A linear mixed model was employed to analyze repeated measures and compare Z-score measurements between groups throughout gestational age. The study included 40 FGR fetuses and a total of 107 evaluations were performed: 21 from small for gestational age (SGA), 74 from the FGR stage I, and 12 from the FGR stage ≥ II. The results indicate that SGA and stage I FGR fetuses exhibit higher LV GLS than stages ≥ II. Throughout gestation, SGA and FGR stage I fetuses showed similar behavior with consistently better LV GLS values when compared to FGR stages ≥ II. No significant differences were observed in LV GLS strain behavior between SGA and FGR stage I. In conclusion, all FGRs show signs of early cardiac dysfunction, with severe cases demonstrating significantly a lower LV GLS when compared to mild cases, suggesting deterioration of cardiac dysfunction with progression of fetal compromise.

Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity in females with breast cancer

BackgroundCancer and cardiovascular diseases are the main causes of mortality worldwide. Although the incidence of cancer is rising, modern comprehensive management including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy led to decreased mortality, but also different cardiovascular complications. Conventional EF measurement fails to detect subtle changes in LV function, so a more sensitive tool is needed.MethodsThe study included 101 asymptomatic female patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer who received anthracycline ± trastuzumab-based chemotherapy regimen. A comprehensive echocardiographic examination was performed before receiving the chemotherapy (T0), at 3 months (T1), and at 6 months after (T2). All patients had pre-treatment normal LV EF. Asymptomatic CTRCD is defined as: severe if new LVEF reduction to < 40%, moderate if new LVEF reduction by ≥ 10 percentage points to an LVEF of 40–49% or new LVEF reduction by, 10 percentage points to an LVEF of 40– 49% and either new relative decline in GLS by .15% from baseline or new rise in cardiac biomarkers and mild if LVEF ≥ 50% and new relative decline in GLS by .15% from baseline and/or new rise in cardiac biomarkers. Symptomatic CTRCD is defined as: very severe if HF requiring inotropic support, mechanical circulatory support, or consideration of transplantation, severe if required hospitalization, moderate if required outpatient intensification of diuretic and HF therapy and mild if there are mild HF symptoms and no intensification of therapy required according to the latest ESC cardio oncology guidelines. The Lower reference value set for RV S’ was less than 10cm/s to define RV systolic dysfunction according to ASE guidelines.ResultsCTRCD occurred in 24 patients (25.5%) while RV systolic dysfunction was more common occurring in 37 patients (39.4%). LV GLS at (T1) (cut-off value < -15% with relative 12.5% reduction from the baseline value) was a strong predictor of CTRCD, but combining LV GLS with RV GLS & RV FWLS was the strongest (AUC = 0.947, sensitivity = 91.67%, specificity = 90%).ConclusionChemotherapy induces biventricular changes with more prevalent deterioration in RV values. Low LV & RV strain values at baseline together with reduction of these values after chemotherapy treatment can predict later CTRCD development. Combining LV GLS with RV GLS & FWLS values at (T1) is the strongest predictor of subsequent CTRCD.

The usefulness of speckle tracking echocardiography for the prediction of cardiac involvement in patients with biopsy-proven sarcoidosis.

Cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) is commonly diagnosed based on clinical criteria and abnormalities in noninvasive imaging reported in patients with biopsy-proven extracardiac sarcoidosis. Electrocardiogram and two-dimensional echocardiography have a low sensitivity for CS detection. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and positron emission tomography (PET) have limitations in terms of cost and availability. This study aimed to assess the usefulness of left ventricular longitudinal strain, measured using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), for the prediction of late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) presence in CMR in patients with biopsy-proven sarcoidosis. A total of 119 patients with biopsy-proven extracardiac sarcoidosis were divided, according to the clinical criteria proposed by the 2014 Heart Rhythm Society expert consensus statement (HRS 2014), into two groups: 43 individuals with "probable cardiac sarcoidosis", CS(+) and 76 individuals without cardiac sarcoidosis, CS (-). Data from echocardiography, CMR, 12-lead ECG and 24h Holter monitoring were analyzed. Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV-GLS) was slightly reduced in the entire sarcoidosis group (-18.61±2.96), no difference between the CS (+) and CS (-) subgroups was found (-18.0%±3.2% and -18.9%±2.8%, respectively; p=.223). No cut-off value for LV-GLS was identified that could predict the presence of LGE. Segmental longitudinal strain impairment partially correlated with the presence of LGE on CMR. In our cohort of sarcoidosis patients, segmental longitudinal strain proved more helpful in the diagnostic process than LV-GLS. The ultimate role of STE in the diagnosis of CS remains to be established.

Effects evaluation of different exercises on subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in obese rats by speckle-tracking echocardiography

ObjectiveTo identify subclinical left ventricle dysfunction (LVD) in obese rats by speckle-tracking echocardiography, and to evaluate the effects of 12-week Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training (MICT) or High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) on LV geometry, histology and function in obese rats. MethodsEighteen male standard or obese Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into the Control group, the MICT group, and the HIIT group. Exercise interventions were conducted for 12 weeks, with equal total load and increased intensity gradient. Using dual-energy X-ray, two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography, pulse Doppler, and HE staining to evalucate body shape, LV morphology, structure, and myocardial mechanics function. Results(1) Both MICT and HIIT have good weight loss shaping effect. (2) The LV of obese rats underwent pathological remodeling, with decreased longitudinal contractility and synchrony, and increased circumferential contractility and synchrony. (3) Exercise can inhibit LV pathological remodeling, improve myocardial mechanical function. HIIT is superior to MICT. (4) The global longitudinal strain of obese rats in the HIIT group showed a significant correlation with Fat% and Lean%. ConclusionObesity can induce LV pathological remodeling and subclinical dysfunction. Compared with MICT, 12-week HIIT can effectively inhibit the pathological remodeling of LV and promote the benign development of myocardial mechanical function in obese rats.

Left ventricular systolic function assessed by standard and advanced echocardiographic techniques in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: A systemic review and meta-analysis.

Aim of the study was to perform a systemic review and meta-analysis of the current case-control studies based on the assessment of the left ventricular (LV) systolic function with standard and advanced echocardiographic methods. Objectives of the study, methods of statisticalanalysis, literature search strategy, inclusion andexclusion criteria, and outcome measurementswere defined according to Cochrane Collaborationsteps, 13 including recommendations for metaanalysisof observational studies in epidemiology (MOOSE). A total of 850 papers were collected. Of those, eight papers (10 groups) including 174,442 SLE patients and 45,608,723 controls with heart failure (HF), 20 papers including 1,121 SLE patients and 1,010 controls with an evaluated LV ejection fraction (LVEF), and eight studies (nine groups) including 462 SLE patients and 356 controls with a measured LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) met the predefined inclusion criteria. HF rate in SLE patients was 2.39% (4,176 of 174,442 patients with HF), and SLE patients showed a 3.4 times higher risk for HF compared to controls. SLE patients had a lower LVEF compared to controls. LVGLS was more impaired in SLE patients compared to controls, irrespective of two-dimensional or three-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography. Heart failure rate in SLE patients is high, and SLE patients showed a 3.4 times higher risk in patients with SLE compared to controls. LV systolic function, as measured by LVEF and LVGLS, is significantly affected in SLE patients, and LVGLS potentially represents a new tool for the early assessment of LV function.

Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography in fetuses with critical aortic stenosis before and after fetal aortic valvuloplasty.

Critical aortic stenosis (AS) in fetuses may progress to hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) with need for postnatal single ventricular (SV) palliation. Fetal aortic valvuloplasty (FAV) is performed to achieve postnatal biventricular (BV) circulation. However, the impact of FAV on fetal myocardial function is difficult to measure. Prediction of postnatal circulatory status and, therefore, counseling is challenging. Retrospective study of fetuses with critical AS who underwent FAV. Global Longitudinal Peak Systolic Strain (GLPSS) of the left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) were retrospectively analyzed before and after intervention. Fisher's Exact Test and Mann-Whitney-U Test were used for univariant statistical analysis. 23 fetuses with critical AS were included. After intervention fetuses demonstrated more negative LV-GLPSS mean values post- vs. pre-intervention (-5.36% vs. -1.57%; p < 0.05). RV-GLPSS was decreased in all fetuses, there was no peri-interventional change. 20 fetuses were born alive. Postnatally, 10 had BV and 10 SV circulation. Improved post-interventional LV-GLPSS strain values correlated with BV outcome (p < 0.05). Pre-interventional continuous LV-GLPSS values correlated with postnatal SV vs. BV outcome (p < 0.05). In some fetuses, LV myocardial function assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) improves after FAV. Improved post-interventional LV-GLPSS correlates with biventricular postnatal outcome. Furthermore, pre-interventional LV- and RV-GLPSS correlate with postnatal outcome. Further studies are needed to asses, if pre-interventional STE parameters might predict which fetuses will benefit from FAV with postnatal BV circulation.

Echocardiographic two-dimensional strain evaluation of right ventricular function in healthy adults

Objective: To explore the feasibility of using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography for measuring right ventricular strain and function in healthy adults, and to analyze the impact of age and gender. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study. Healthy adults who underwent physical examination in the Physical Examination Center of Beijing Hospital from January 1, 2020 to January 1, 2021 were included. Two researchers independently measured various right ventricular longitudinal strain indices using the Echopac software, including (global longitudinal strain (GLS), apical longitudinal strain (ALS), midventricle longitudinal strain (MLS), basal longitudinal strain (BLS), free wall GLS (FWGLS), free wall ALS (FWALS), free wall MLS (FWMLS) and free wall BLS (FWBLS)) as well as tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and right ventricle-fraction of area change (RVFAC). The above indicators were taken as the average of two physicians. The consistency of the measurements by two physicians was evaluated by the within-group correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: A total of 233 subjects were included, including 137 males, aged (58.5±14.2) years. ICC values was all above 0.8 with excellent agreement. The values of FWGLS and GLS in healthy adults were -26.63% and -21.89%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in TAPSE ((2.06±0.41)cm vs. (2.10±0.39)cm, P=0.510) and RVFAC ((51.17±9.91)% vs. (50.89±8.65)%, P=0.826) between males and females. The values of various right ventricular long axis strain indicators (GLS, ALS, MLS, BLS, FWGLS, FWMLS, FWMLS, FWBLS) in females aged 18 to 40 and 41 to 65 years were higher than those in males of the same age (all P<0.05), while there was no statistically significant difference in the values of various right ventricular long axis strain indicators between the sexes in subjects aged 65 years and above (all P>0.05). In females, the right ventricular GLS, ALS, MLS, FWGLS, FWALS, FWMLS, and FWBLS values in the groups aged 18 to 40 and 41 to 65 years were significantly higher than those in the group aged 65 years and above (all P<0.05). In contrast, no significant differences were found in these indices among different age groups in males (all P>0.05). Conclusions: Using two-dimensional speckle tracking technology in echocardiography to measure right ventricular strain indicators is feasible and highly reproducible. Gender and age have an impact on right ventricular strain indicators.

Biventricular interaction and aortic function in adult patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot: a two-dimensional–three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiographic study

Abstract Aims In patients late after correction of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF), the combined effects of pre-operative hypertrophy and hypoxia, ventricular interdependence, acquired post-operative lesions such as pulmonary or aortic regurgitation, and congenital vasculopathy may result in impaired right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) function. The aim of the present study was to investigate the interventricular interactions in repaired TOF (rTOF) and the impact of aortic function on biventricular performance using two-dimensional (2D-STE) and three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (3D-STE). Methods and results Twenty-five adult patients with rTOF and 25 age- and gender-matched healthy controls were studied. LV and RV volumes were determined by 3D-STE and cardiac magnetic resonance. LV and RV longitudinal strains (LVLS and RVLS) and LV and RV area strains (LVAS and RVAS) and LV twist/rotation were calculated by 3D-STE. Ascending aorta circumferential strain (AAo-CS) was obtained using 2D-STE. LV 3D-STE parameters were decreased in rTOF patients compared with controls even in patients with normal ejection fraction. AAo-CS was decreased (6.7 ± 1.9 vs. 10.1 ± 2.6, P = 0.003) in rTOF patients compared with controls even in the presence of normal aortic dimensions and correlated with AAo diameter (r = −0.69, P = 0.0001), LV twist (r = 0.54, P = 0.004), LVAS (r = −0.56, P = 0.003), and RVLS (r = −0.39, P = 0.036). LVAS and AAo-CS were associated with disease severity (peak oxygen consumption and arrhythmia occurrence). Significant improvement in global χ2 value was noted with RV 3D-STE parameters + LVAS + AAo-CS compared with RV dysfunction alone for detecting exercise capacity impairment (from 77.1 to 84.4 to 91.2, P = 0.003). Conclusion Speckle-tracking echocardiography revealed subtle LV and AAo dysfunction in adults with rTOF. A correlation was observed between LV and RV strain changes and between AAo strain impairment and LV/RV dysfunction. LV and AAo changes had an incremental value in evaluating disease severity.