Changes In Ventricular Function Research Articles

Effects of Home-based Remote Cardiac Rehabilitation on Left Ventricular Function and Fear of Exercise in Patients after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI): A Retrospective Cohort Study

Aim: This study aims to explore the effects of home-based remote cardiac rehabilitation on left ventricular function and exercise fear in patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: A total of 232 patients with coronary heart disease after PCI treated in Tianshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital from January 2020 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into the remote rehabilitation group (169 cases) and the routine group (63 cases) according to the exposure factor (home-based remote cardiac rehabilitation). Changes in left ventricular function and sports phobia Tampa Scale in patients with coronary heart disease after PCI were compared using propensity score matching to reduce selection bias and confounding factors. Results: After the intervention, the scores of patients in the tele-rehabilitation group were significantly higher than those in the conventional group in terms of fear of movement, perception of danger, fear of movement, avoidance of movement, and dysfunction (p-value < 0.05). Left heart function was compared between the tele-rehabilitation group and the conventional group. Patients in the tele-rehabilitation group had significantly higher peak mitral valve blood flow in the early diastolic period (E), peak mitral valve blood flow in the late diastolic period (A), six-minute walk test (6MWT), and ratio of the peak mitral valve blood flow in the early diastolic period to the peak mitral valve blood flow in the late diastolic period (E/A) than those in the conventional group (p-value < 0.05). However, the peak deceleration time and isovolumic diastolic time in the early mitral valve diastolic period were significantly higher in the tele-rehabilitation group than in the conventional group (p-value < 0.05). Conclusions: Home-based remote cardiac rehabilitation instruction can improve the heart function and exercise fear state of patients after PCI.

Effect of flow reduction surgery in a patient with high flow arteriovenous fistula with aortic dissection using 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging: A case report.

This study aimed to investigate cardiovascular function in a patient with high-flow arteriovenous fistula (AVF) who underwent aortic dissection (AD) using four-dimensional (4D) flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as well as analyze the effect of flow reduction surgery on AD. On March 12, 2017, a 60-year-old woman underwent emergency surgery for AD. After that, she experienced acute kidney injury, and hemodialysis was initiated. On April 24, 2017, a left brachiocephalic arteriovenous fistula (AVF) was created to facilitate her dialysis. However, after 5 years, the patient presented with a high-flow AVF, and a flow reduction surgery was performed on March 11, 2022. To evaluate the procedure's effectiveness, we measured the changes in left ventricular (LV) function and blood flow in the aorta and vascular access before and after surgery using 4D flow MRI. Notable changes were observed in LV function, blood flow in the aorta before and after the surgery, and maximum velocity and flow volume after surgery. During the 6-month follow-up after the surgery, the maximum velocity and flow volume in the aorta and vascular access were reduced; also, indicators such as LV volume, cardiac output, cardiac index, and LV mass were improved. In patients with high-flow AVF, flow reduction surgery should be considered as it may improve LV function and reduce the risk of AD recurrence by lowering the flow volume of the aorta.

The alterations of cardiac function during venovenous artificial placenta support in fetal goats.

Venovenous artificial placenta (VVAP) may mimic the intrauterine environment for maintaining fetal circulation. However, changes in ventricular function in fetal goats undergoing VVAP support remain unclear. Pump-assisted VVAPs were established in five fetal goats for 9 h. The myocardial performance index (Tei index), cardiac output (CO), and blood biochemical parameters were measured during VVAP support. An increasing trend of the right ventricular (RV) Tei index was seen during VVAP support (p for trend < 0.01). The right ventricular cardiac output (RVCO) increased after the initiation of VVAP, while a significant trend of reduction was observed after 3 h (p for trend = 0.03). During VVAP support, we observed remarkable elevations of plasma cTnI and arterial lactic acid, which were positively correlated with the RV Tei index, but not the left ventricular (LV) Tei index, LVCO, and RVCO. The RVCO increases initially while a tendency of decrease could be observed during VVAP support. Special attention should be paid to right ventricular dysfunction during VVAP support.

Impact of maternal age and body mass index on the structure and function of the heart in newborns: a Copenhagen Baby Heart Study

BackgroundMaternal obesity and advanced age have been associated with an increased risk of structural congenital heart defects in the offspring. Whether these factors may also cause abnormalities in infant cardiac dimension and function is unknown. This study investigates whether maternal body mass index (BMI) and maternal age are associated with changes in left ventricular (LV) dimensions and function in the newborn.MethodsInfants enrolled in the Copenhagen Baby Heart Study (CBHS), who were born at term, and contributed with a transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) within 60 days of birth were included. The exposure variables were prepregnancy maternal BMI (kg/m2) < 18.5; 18.5–24.9 (reference); 25–29.9; 30–34.9 and ≥ 35 and maternal age (years) < 25; 25–29; 30–34 (reference); 35–39 and ≥ 40. Outcomes were LV parameters ascertained by 2D-echocardiography. Associations between each maternal factor and infant LV parameters were analysed with either a linear model adjusted for the child’s weight and length at birth, gestational age, sex, age at TTE, and maternal smoking, or a linear mixed model, further adjusted for random effects of analyst and month of analysis. Analyses investigating impact of maternal BMI were adjusted for maternal age, and vice versa.ResultsThe study cohort included 24,294 infants. Compared with infants in the BMI reference group, infants born to women with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 generally had smaller measures of LV internal diameters in end-diastole, reaching statistical significance for BMI 30–34.9 kg/m2 [-0.11 ± 0.04 mm, p = 0.01]. All groups of infants born to women with a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 had significantly smaller LV internal diameters in end-systole: BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2 [-0.04 ± 0.02 mm, p = 0.04], BMI 30–34.9 kg/m2 [-0.12 ± 0.03 mm, p = 0.001] and BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 [-0.11 ± 0.05 mm, p = 0.03].Compared with infants in the age reference group, infants born to women ≥ 40 years had significantly smaller LV internal diameters in end-diastole [-0.15 ± 0.04 mm, p = 0.001] and end-systole [-0.09 ± 0.04 mm, p = 0.009].ConclusionsSystematic population-based echocardiography of infants showed that a maternal prepregnancy BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and maternal age ≥ 40 years were associated with smaller systolic and diastolic LV diameters. The long-term effects are unknown.Clinical trial registrationApril 2016, Copenhagen Baby Heart, NCT02753348.

Correlation of ventricular pacing burden and left ventricular function in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

Pacemaker-induced cardiomyopathy is a well described phenomenon in patients with preserved ejection fraction at the time of permanent pacemaker implant. One of the identified risk factors for pacemaker-induced cardiomyopathy is the degree of ventricular pacing burden. However, it is unclear how a high right ventricular pacing burden affects patients with depressed left ventricular function at the time of pacemaker implantation. We sought to assess the relationship between right ventricular pacing and change in left ventricular function over time. We conducted an analysis of all patients who had received either a single or dual lead cardiac implantable electronic devices, excluding biventricular devices, and had a prior transthoracic echocardiogram demonstrating an ejection fraction of less than 50%. The primary end-point was the correlation between the percentage of ventricular pacing and the change in LV ejection fraction. Fifty eight patients with preceding heart failure had pacemakers implanted and had follow up echocardiograms. There was no correlation between the degree of ventricular pacing and the absolute change in LV function (r = .04, p = .979). None of the previously identified risk factors for pacemaker induced cardiomyopathy were predictive of a significant fall in ejection fraction. The degree of RV pacing and other established risk factors for pacemaker-induced cardiomyopathy in patients with normal left ventricular function at the time of implantation do not appear to carry the same risk in patients with pre-existing heart failure who receive either single or dual lead pacemakers.

An inflammation resolution-promoting intervention prevents atrial fibrillation caused by left ventricular dysfunction.

Recent studies suggest that bioactive mediators called resolvins promote an active resolution of inflammation. Inflammatory signalling is involved in the development of the substrate for atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of resolvin-D1 on atrial arrhythmogenic remodelling resulting from left ventricular (LV) dysfunction induced by myocardial infarction (MI) in rats. MI was produced by left anterior descending coronary artery ligation. Intervention groups received daily intraperitoneal resolvin-D1, beginning before MI surgery (early-RvD1) or Day 7 post-MI (late-RvD1) and continued until Day 21 post-MI. AF vulnerability was evaluated by performing an electrophysiological study. Atrial conduction was analysed by using optical mapping. Fibrosis was quantified by Masson's trichrome staining and gene expression by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and RNA sequencing. Investigators were blinded to group identity. Early-RvD1 significantly reduced MI size (17 ± 6%, vs. 39 ± 6% in vehicle-MI) and preserved LV ejection fraction; these were unaffected by late-RvD1. Transoesophageal pacing induced atrial tachyarrhythmia in 2/18 (11%) sham-operated rats, vs. 18/18 (100%) MI-only rats, in 5/18 (28%, P < 0.001 vs. MI) early-RvD1 MI rats, and in 7/12 (58%, P < 0.01) late-RvD1 MI rats. Atrial conduction velocity significantly decreased post-MI, an effect suppressed by RvD1 treatment. Both early-RvD1 and late-RvD1 limited MI-induced atrial fibrosis and prevented MI-induced increases in the atrial expression of inflammation-related and fibrosis-related biomarkers and pathways. RvD1 suppressed MI-related atrial arrhythmogenic remodelling. Early-RvD1 had MI sparing and atrial remodelling suppressant effects, whereas late-RvD1 attenuated atrial remodelling and AF promotion without ventricular protection, revealing atrial-protective actions unrelated to ventricular function changes. These results point to inflammation resolution-promoting compounds as novel cardio-protective interventions with a particular interest in attenuating AF substrate development.

Assessment of left ventricular systolic function in patients with chronic coronary syndrome and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction after percutaneous coronary intervention

Objective: Describe the characteristic and change of left ventricular systolic function after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with chronic coronary syndrome and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction after percutaneous coronary intervention. Methods: This prospective study involved the monitoring of 40 patients who had an ejection fraction of 40% or less and were diagnosed with chronic coronary artery disease. These patients underwent a successful percutaneous coronary intervention at the Vietnam National Heart Institute and Hanoi Medical University Hospital between September 2022 and August 2023. The main objective is to evaluate the left ventricular systolic function following the intervention using 2D echocardiography. Results: A total of 40 patients (34 male and 6 females) with a mean age of 68.3 ± 10.2, were assessed for left ventricular systolic function using 2D echocardiography before and after the intervention. In paired assessment at 90-day follow-up, baseline LVEF improved significantly (before intervention: 32.8 ± 7.2% and after: 38,7 ± 7,3%, p &lt; 0.01). Left ventricular longitudinal strain improved significantly on all cross-sections such as: 4-chamber GLS (before: -10.4 ± 3.97%, after: -13.6 ± 4.3%, p &lt; 0.01), 2-chamber GLS (before: -10.6 ± 3.8%, after: -13.1 ± 4.2%, p &lt; 0.01), 3-chamber GLS (before: -9.8 ± 3.7%, after: -12.3 ± 4.6%, p &lt; 0.01), GLS Avg (before: -10.3 ± 3.6%, after: -13 ± 4.1%, p&lt; 0.01), basal GLS (before: -11.2 ± 3.8%, after: -14 ± 4.5%, p &lt; 0.01), middle GLS (before: -9.3 ± 4.4%, after: -11.8 ± 3.9%, p &lt; 0.01), apical GLS (before: -11.5 ± 5.1%, after: -14.3 ± 5.9%, p &lt; 0.01). In comparison with the incomplete-revascularization group, there was a significant improvement in left ventricular systolic function in the complete-revascularization group (OR= 22.17, p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: In patients with chronic coronary syndrome and a reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, the systolic function of the left ventricle was enhanced following percutaneous coronary intervention, particularly in the group that underwent complete revascularization.

Early left ventricular systolic function is a more sensitive predictor of adverse events after heart transplant

BackgroundFirst-phase ejection fraction (EF1) is a novel measure of early changes in left ventricular systolic function. This study was to investigate the prognostic value of EF1 in heart transplant recipients. MethodsHeart transplant recipients were prospectively recruited at the Union Hospital, Wuhan, China between January 2015 and December 2019. All patients underwent clinical examination, biochemistry measures [brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and creatinine] and transthoracic echocardiography. The primary endpoint was a combined event of all-cause mortality and graft rejection. ResultsIn 277 patients (aged 48.6 ± 12.5 years) followed for a median of 38.7 [26.8–45.0] months, there were 35 (12.6%) patients had adverse events including 20 deaths and 15 rejections. EF1 was negatively associated with BNP (β = −0.220, p < 0.001) and was significantly lower in patients with events compared to those without. EF1 had the largest area under the curve in ROC analysis compared to other measures. An optimal cut-off value of 25.8% for EF1 had a sensitivity of 96.3% and a specificity of 97.1% for prediction of events. EF1 was the most powerful predictor of events with hazard ratio per 1% change in EF1: 0.628 (95%CI: 0.555–0.710, p < 0.001) after adjustment for left ventricular ejection fraction and global longitudinal strain. ConclusionsEarly left ventricular systolic function as measured by EF1 is a powerful predictor of adverse outcomes after heart transplant. EF1 may be useful in risk stratification and management of heart transplant recipients.

In Situ Transesophageal Echocardiography During Electrical Cardioversion in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation—Safety and Echocardiographic Findings

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) can reliably detect left atrial (LA) and LA appendage (LAA) thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) before electrical cardioversion (ECV). However, evaluating cardiac and valve function pre-ECV can be challenging due to the increased and irregular heart rate. Additionally, post-ECV atrial stunning increases the risk of LAA thrombosis. Therefore, post-ECV TEE may allow for useful appendage, ventricular, and valve function assessment. However, the safety and usefulness of leaving the TEE probe in situ during ECV for post-ECV cardiac evaluation in clinical practice have not been previously evaluated. We analyzed 37 out of 86 consecutive patients who had the TEE probe left in situ, for clinical reasons, during ECV by a single operator between February 20, 2019, and January 3, 2023. We examined changes in left ventricular (LV) function, dynamic changes in valvular regurgitation, electromechanical coupling of the left atrium, and qualitative spontaneous echo contrast. We also assessed the presence of any complications related to the periprocedural TEE exam. The mean age of the patients was 74±9.65years, and 29 (78%) were male. The periprocedural TEE time ranged from 7 to 55minutes, with an average of 20.78minutes. Immediately after ECV and restoration of normal sinus rhythm, there was an improvement in LV ejection fraction (47%±11.9% vs 40%±15.8%; P=.035). There was also a reduction in baseline mitral regurgitation of greater than moderate degree. However, spontaneous echo contrast worsened in the LAA in 11 (31.4%) patients. Additionally, 1 patient developed a new LAA thrombus, and 24 patients (72%) had evidence of electromechanical coupling with Doppler evidence of LA contraction. Clinically significant degenerative aortic and mitral stenosis were identified in 8% and mild or greater aortic regurgitation in 8% of patients post-ECV. No procedural complications were observed. In situ TEE before, during, and after ECV is safe and provides useful clinical information regarding immediate cardiac changes after ECV, with diagnostic and therapeutic implications.

Left ventricular strain and myocardial work in short-term peritoneal dialysis patients

Background Initiation of dialysis encompasses new cardiovascular challenges on patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This study used two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) to investigate the change of left ventricular (LV) myocardial function undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD) within 1–3 months. Methods A total of 56 patients with ESRD and 27 healthy controls were enrolled in this prospective study. Mean duration of PD was 44.41 ± 16.44 days. We evaluated LV myocardial function of patients with ESRD in baseline and within 1–3 months after PD by 2D-STE with global longitudinal strains (GLS) and myocardial work (MW). Based on the level of serum phosphate before PD, patients were divided into two groups: the group with normal serum phosphate or hyperphosphatemia. Results Compared with healthy controls, patients with ESRD had impaired GLS (p < .001) and increased global work index (GWI) (p = .034), global constructive work (GCW) (p < .001), global wasted work (GWW) (p < .001), and lower global work efficiency (GWE) (p = .002). After PD therapy, GWI (p = .001), GCW (p < .001), and GWW (p = .023) decreased and closed to healthy subjects (p > .05) and no significant improvement was observed in GLS (p = .387). GLS of basal segments worsened in the hyperphosphatemia group (p = .005) and GWW reduced remarkably in the group with normal serum phosphate after PD treatment (p = .008). The change of left ventricular internal diameter in diastole (LVIDd) was the only parameter influenced GWI in post-dialysis patients (β = 0.324, p = .013). Conclusions Short-term PD treatment improved LV MW in ESRD patients. They benefited more when receiving treatment before the increase of serum phosphorus.

Impact of Gore Cardioform Atrial Septal Defect Occluder on Atrial and Ventricular Electromechanics in a Pediatric Population

Transcatheter closure is the first-line treatment for ostium secundum atrial septal defect (ASD). The GORE Cardioform ASD Occluder (GCA) is potentially innovative compared with other self-centering devices. This study aimed to compare the mechanic changes in atrial and ventricular properties before and after GCA implantation. All consecutive patients aged <18years who underwent isolated ASD closure with a single GCA device were enrolled from 2 centers. Echocardiography and electrocardiogram were performed the day before, 24hours, and 6months after ASD closure. Between January 2020 and February 2021, 70 pediatric patients with ASD were enrolled. The mean age was 7.9 ± 3.9years, and the mean defect diameter was 17.1 ± 4.5mm. Global longitudinal strain analysis showed no change in left ventricular longitudinal function (T0 -23.2 ± 2.8%, 24 hours -23.0 ± 2.8%, and 6months -23.5 ± 2.7%). An early and transient reduction in longitudinal strain was detected in the basal septal segments (T0 -19.8 ± 3.3%, 24 hours -18.7 ± 3.6%, and 6months -19.2 ± 3.4%), left atrium (T0 41.4 ± 15.3%, 29.2 ± 1.4%, and 39.0 ± 12.9%), and right ventricle (-27.6 ± 5.4%, -23.6 ± 5.0%, and -27.3 ± 4.6) 24hours after closure, secondary to hemodynamic changes because of flow redirection after ASD closure. Six months after the procedure, only the left atrium showed a mild global longitudinal strain reduction because of the presence of the device within the septum. GCA device had no impact on global and regional ventricular function. Atrial mechanics were preserved, except for the segments covered by the device. This is the first device demonstrating no impact on the left and right ventricular mechanics, irrespective of the device size.

Progression of definite and non-definite Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC) and risk of major adverse cardiac events

Abstract Background In patients with Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC, also called"Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy"), it is a challenge to predict those at greatest risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Our hypothesis is that risk of arrhythmia may be preceded by change in ventricular structure and function. Purpose To assess the association between change in ventricular structure and function over time and risk of (MACE) in ARVC. Methods 101 definite and non-definite ARVC patients (defined as per Revised Task Force criteria (TFC)) were included with at least two sequential echocardiography and ECGs between 2010 and 2022. Structural progression was defined as development of new 2010 TFC on echocardiography during follow-up. MACE were defined as ventricular fibrillation (VF), sustained ventricular tachycardia (Sus VT), appropriate implantable cardio-defibrillator (ICD) therapy (shock/anti-tachycardia pacing (ATP)), heart failure, cardiac transplantation and death. Results Of the 101 patients, 51 had a definite diagnosis of ARVC, and 50 had a non-definite ‘early’ diagnosis, of whom a total of 66 (68%) carried a pathogenic variant associated with ARVC. Most were male 58 (57%), and the median age at presentation was 39 years (IQR: 27 - 53). Palpitations 41 (41%) and syncope 25 (25%) were the most common symptoms at baseline. 21 (23%) of the entire population were engaged in competitive exercise. At baseline, 22/101 (22%) patients presented with MACE, in which 20 (91%) definite patients met either minor or major imaging criteria at inclusion. During 4 years follow up (IQR: 2 – 6), 22 patients experienced MACE, in which 11 with history of MACE and 11 without, of those (15 (68%)) had structural progression. Additionally, 9 patients had structural progression of which 5 patients had history of MACE and no second event during follow up and 4 patients had no MACE at baseline or during follow up. Results showed that the odds of structural progression were significantly higher in patients with MACE than without (Table 1). Conclusion Structural progression was strongly associated with MACE events. This finding raises the possibility that tracking change over time identifies those patients at greatest risk of arrhythmia, with significant changes in right ventricular measurements.

Changes in physical performance after Fontan operation: a follow-up study

Abstract Background Maximal oxygen consumption (peak VO2) is markedly compromised in patients with Fontan circulation compared to healthy subjects. In addition to the natural aging process, adaptive mechanisms inherent to univentricular physiology may further contribute to a decline in peak VO2 over time. These patients may have limitations in their ability to engage in physical activity, which may exacerbate the decline in peak VO2. This study aims to quantify the impairment of functional capacity over time in patients in the late postoperative period of Fontan operation and the relationship with a sedentary lifestyle. Method We studied 46 patients, 57% female, with a median age of 28 (24 - 35) years and 17 (15 - 21) years after Fontan surgery. Maximum and submaximal variables were analyzed from two standardized cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET) on a treadmill and performed with a range of five (4 - 9) years between them. All patients' physical activity levels were ranked using the short version of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), comparing the functional capacity between active and sedentary patients. Clinical and surgical data were extracted from medical records. We performed a descriptive analysis of the demographic, clinical, and surgical data and a comparative analysis between the variables of the first and second CPET. The annual change was calculated by dividing the differences between the last and first tests by the time interval between them. Maximal variables were analyzed only for patients who achieved a maximum test (respiratory exchange ratio was equal to or greater than ≥ 1.1, heart rate &amp;gt; 85% of the predicted, and signs of intense effort. Results Among the 46 patients in the study, 40 performed maximum CPET. The characteristics of patients are shown in Table 1. There was an annual decrease in peak VO2 of 0.42 (1.17- -0.71) mL/kg/min and 0.72 (-2.14 - 0.71) % of predicted VO2. Impaired submaximal parameters occurred in all patients. There was an increased number of sedentary subjects on the second test compared with the first (p=0.009) (Table 2). Comparing the functional capacity of inactive patients with active, we found lower values in peak VO2: 23.1 (20.8-25.1) vs. 35.1 (32.0-35.4) mL/kg/min (p&amp;lt;0.001) and in a percentage of predicted 62 (59-67) vs. 84 (76-97) % (p=0.012). When analyzing the ejection fraction of the systemic ventricle by most recent echocardiogram and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) plasmatic level, these variables were not significantly changed. Conclusion Functional capacity decreased over time in the studied population, represented mainly by a significant annual loss in peak VO2 and the predicted age values. Reduced functional capacity was observed in the inactive patients compared with active. No change in ventricular function was identified, as well as in BNP plasmatic level over time.Table_1Table_2

Tricuspid regurgitation and heart failure: the faith of treated vs untreated cohort in the percutaneous era

Abstract Background/Introduction Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is associated with heart failure and reduced survival.Within a short-time period, transcatheter tricuspid valve repair or replacement (TTVR)(TTVr) for TR has evolved from innovation to clinical reality. Still, most patients arrive in an advanced state of heart failure (HF), as well as most cohorts remained untreated for various reasons. The faith of these two therapeutic approaches gives differences in results among survival and clinical status at distance. Purpose The present study’s aim is to provide 1 year results between TR patients treated with TTVR and TTVr compared to untreated patients, in terms of cardiac survival, rehospitalization, right-side heart failure symptoms development, and NYHA improvement. The secondary endpoint is to analyze gender disparities as well as echocardiographic and medical therapy changes between groups. Methods 78 patients (pts) have been prospectively inserted into a dedicated database from January 2020 till January 2023. 26 pts (36%) have been treated with TTVR/r (Treated Group-TG) and 51 pts (65%) have been left untreated with medical therapy (MT) optimization (UN-Treated Group-UNTG). In TG, 9 (34%) underwent TEER (Transcatheter Edge-To-Edge Repair), 13 (50%) annuloplasty and 4(15%) TTVr. Tri-Score was used to define right-side pathology in both groups; the Tri-Score mean of 3.9 (8-1 +/- SD 1.68) was in TG, while 6,17 (10-2+/- SD 1.9) in UNTG. In UNTG 52% were female gender while 76%in TG. Most of the patients in UNTG were in TR stage 5 (47%) while in stage 4 in TG (42%). For 1 year follow-up (FUP), Kaplan-Meier weighted survival curves related to cardiac death and HF rehospitalization have been computed as well as Chi-squared test to evaluate right-side HF symptoms progression, echocardiographic changes in right ventricular function, NYHA progression and medical therapy changes, between the 2 groups. Results Analyzing the cardiac death between the 2 groups, there was a significant statistical difference since TG has a less incidence of exitus in the general population (p-value =0,05), Figure 1. Concerning gender, in female gender, the treated pts have lower cardiac death incidence (p-value =0,03).Concerning HF hospitalization, TG has a lower incidence with p-value =0,005, Figure 2. No difference according to gender. In TG there was a significant improvement in NYHA class at FUP (p-value =0,001) as well as an improvement of right-side HF symptoms (p-value =0,001). In UNTG there was a significant increase in the dosage of HF drugs compared to TG, (p-value =0,001) as well as an increase in right ventricular function and dimension at echocardiogram (p-value =0,001). Conclusion(s) this study shows that treatment in case of TR with right side HF has a positive impact upon cardiac death,HF hospitalisation at 1 year. As well as there is a significant improvement in clinical and ecocardiographic status at FUP in treated group.figure 1figure 2

Impact of atrial fibrillation burden on longitudinal changes in left ventricular structure and function: a post-hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a well-established risk factor for heart failure (HF), stroke, and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. However, only limited longitudinal data exist regarding the impact of AF burden on left ventricular (LV) structure and function. Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate the association between AF burden and longitudinal changes in LV structure and function in an older patient population with cardiac risk factors. Methods This study was a post-hoc analysis of a randomized clinical trial, which investigated whether AF screening with implantable loop recorders (ILRs) and subsequent initiation of anticoagulation could prevent stroke in high-risk individuals. As a substudy, a group of participants had extensive transthoracic echocardiography performed at baseline and a re-examination after ILR end-of-life. We included participants with available ILR data and echocardiographic data from both baseline and follow-up. We excluded participants with ongoing AF during the baseline echocardiogram. AF episodes were adjudicated by two cardiologists and AF burden was calculated as the percentage of time spent in AF during the total ILR monitoring period. Univariable and multivariable linear regression models were used to investigate the association between AF burden and changes in echocardiographic measures. The multivariable model was adjusted for age, sex, systolic blood pressure, diabetes, smoking status, previously acute myocardial infarction, previous coronary artery bypass grafting, prevalent HF, body mass index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, number of days monitored by ILR, and the number of days between the two echocardiographic examinations. Both models included adjustment for the baseline value of the echocardiographic measure. Results The study population consisted of 640 participants with available baseline and follow-up echocardiograms. Mean age was 73.6 years (±3.4 years) and 278 (43.4%) were women. AF was documented in 188 (29.4%) participants during a median ILR monitoring period of 3.2 years (IQR 2.9-3.4 years). The mean timespan between the echocardiographic examinations was median 5.0 (IQR 4.6-5.2) years. Among participants with AF, the median AF burden was 0.098% (IQR 0.026-0.758%). Over the course of echocardiographic follow-up, mean ∆GLS was -0.59% (±3.49%), mean ∆LVEF was -1.44% (±8.5%), and mean ∆E/e’ was -1.12(±3.23) in those with AF. Increasing AF burden was significantly associated with an accelerated decline in absolute global longitudinal strain in both univariable (ß= -0.12, p=0.002) and multivariable (ß= -0.11, p=0.003) models (Table 1/Figure 1). Conclusions In an older at-risk population, AF was frequent, and increasing AF burden was found to be independently associated with an accelerated decline in LV function. These findings support AF as an independent risk factor in the development of HF.

Maternal hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and electrocardiographic findings in newborns

Abstract Background Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) - preeclampsia in particular - are important causes of pregnancy complications and death for both the mother and her offspring. Preeclampsia is also associated with both congenital heart defects (CHDs) in the offspring and subtle changes in left ventricular structure and function in the offspring. However, whether preeclampsia also affects the newborn’s cardiac conduction system is unknown. Purpose To assess whether newborns born after pregnancies complicated by HDP exhibit changes in their electrocardiogram (ECG) compared with newborns born after pregnancies without HDP. Methods This population-based cohort study included newborns, who had ECG data obtained within 30 days of birth. Information on maternal preeclampsia (ICD-10 codes DO14-14.2 and DO15-15.9) and maternal gestational hypertension (ICD-10 codes DO13-13.9) was retrieved from an obstetric database. ECG parameters of interest included heart rate, PR interval, QRS axis, QRS duration, uncorrected and corrected QT intervals, maximum R- and S-wave amplitudes in V1 and V6, respectively. ECG parameters of exposed and non-exposed newborns were compared using summary statistics and linear regression, adjusting for sex, gestational age at delivery and length, weight and age at examination. Sensitivity analyses were conducted with adjustments for maternal smoking, parity, age, and multiple pregnancies and the analyses were repeated after excluding neonates and mothers with CHD, newborns exposed to pre-gestational diabetes and children born preterm (&amp;lt;37 weeks’ gestation). Results Our study cohort included 11,826 newborns; 441 were exposed to maternal preeclampsia and 320 were exposed to maternal gestational hypertension (table). Newborns born to mothers with preeclampsia had significantly prolonged QRS duration compared to neonates born after pregnancies without HDP (adjusted mean difference of 0.6 ms, 95% CI [0.04 – 1.16], p=0.04). The maximum amplitude of the R-wave in the V1-recording was significantly lower in newborns born to mothers with preeclampsia by 5% (linear scale: 0.95, 95% CI [0.9 – 0.996], p=0.03). These associations persisted after adjustment for additional covariates and restrictions on the study population. Gestational hypertension was not associated with significant differences in any of the investigated ECG parameters. Conclusion The cardiac conduction was affected in children born to mothers with preeclampsia compared with newborns born after pregnancies without HDP, including prolonged QRS duration and lower amplitude of the R-wave in V1 in the ECG. These findings could be an indicator of thickening of the left ventricular myocardium in newborns of mothers with preeclampsia. The potential clinical implications of these changes – short or long-term – are unknown and require further investigation.Table

Impact of early stages of CKD with and without proteinuria on cardiac remodelling in UK Biobank cohort

Abstract Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is an established predictor of left atrial (LA) and left ventricular (LV) morphological and functional changes, which translate into excessive cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. However, a focussed study exploring the impact of early stages of CKD defined as stage 1 (eGFR &amp;gt; 90 mL/min per 1.73 m2 + albuminuria) and stage 2 (eGFR 60–89 mL/min per 1.73 m2) with and without proteinuria on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) parameters is lacking. Purpose In this study, we analysed CMR structural and functional changes in participants with early stages of CKD in the UK Biobank population. Methods 41,095 participants from the UK Biobank imaging study were categorised into CKD stages. We calculated eGFR using the CKD-EPI 2021 equation and proteinuria was ascertained by the urinary protein creatinine ratio (defined as &amp;gt;30mg/mmol). We sought associations between CKD stages (exposure) and CMR parameters: LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), LV end-systolic volume (LVESV), LV stroke volume (LVSV), LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV global functional index (LVGFI), LV myocardial contractile function (LVMCF), LV mass (LVM), LV mass-to-volume ratio (LVMVR), LV global longitudinal strain (GLS), LV global radial strain (GRS), LV global circumferential strain (GCS), LA maximum volume and left atrial emptying fraction. In the multivariable regression model, we adjusted for covariates including age, sex, ethnicity, height, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, smoking status, and hyperlipidaemia Results Among the participants, 26,779 (65.1%) had normal kidney function, 2,787 (6.8%) stage 1 CKD, 10,534 (25.6%) stage 2 CKD without proteinuria, 689 (1.7%) stage 2 CKD with proteinuria, 241 (0.6%) CKD stage 3A (eGFR 59-45mL/min per 1.73 m2) without proteinuria, 28 (0.1%) stage 3A with proteinuria and 37 (0.1%) with more advanced CKD defined as stages 3B and above. Approximately 8 years after characterisation of CKD stages these participants underwent CMR. Using adjusted multivariable regression models setting normal kidney function as the reference group, the presence of proteinuria in stage 3 CKD was associated with smaller LV volume, lower LVM and more impaired LV function (LVSV beta=-11ml, 95% confidence interval (CI): -5 to -16ml and GLS beta=0.9%, 95% CI: 0.2 to 1.7%). Conclusions This study highlights the relationship between proteinuria in the early stages of CKD and cardiac remodelling patterns using CMR. CKD sub-characterisation with presence or absence of proteinuria should be considered for risk stratification.Figure 1

Abstract 13576: Long-Term Serial Changes in Echocardiographic Parameters in Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction After Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation

Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is frequently complicated by atrial fibrillation (AF). Catheter ablation for AF is an effective method for restoring and maintaining sinus rhythm (SR). However, there is limited data on the serial changes in echocardiographic parameters in patients with HFpEF after ablation. Hypothesis: The serial changes in echocardiographic parameters after ablation for AF depend not only on baseline rhythm but also on the presence of HFpEF. Methods: A retrospectively review was conducted on 1109 out of 2123 patients who had serial echocardiographic data available before the ablation procedure and at 1-year, 2-year, and 3-year follow-ups. The changes in echocardiographic parameters were assessed using repeated measures ANOVA with a Greenhouse-Geisser correction and Bonferroni tests in four groups, which were divided according to baseline rhythm and HFpEF. HFpEF was defined as an HFA-PEFF score ≥ 5 or 2-4 and left atrial pressure ≥ 15 mmHg at the time of catheter ablation. Results: The prevalence of HFpEF was 51.9%, and paroxysmal AF was present in 65%. Left atrial volume index (LAVI) was larger at baseline in patients with AF and significant decreased after ablation in all groups. The trend of left atrial emptying fraction (LAEF) increased in patients with baseline AF until 1year later, while in patients with baseline SR and HFpEF, LAEF gradually declined even after catheter ablation. The trend of left ventricular ejection fraction increased in patients with baseline AF. The trend of mean E/E’ mildly increased after ablation in all groups. There were significant differences between HFpEF and non-HFpEF. (Figure) Conclusions: Catheter ablation was associated with changes of LA size, function and left ventricular function. Baseline rhythm and the presence of HFpEF play a complex role in the course of cardiac function after ablation.

Abstract 14093: Effects of Continuous Accelerated Pacing on Cardiac Structure and Function in Patients With Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction: Insights From the MyPACE Randomized Clinical Trial

Introduction: Heart failure with a preserved ejection fraction of 50% or higher (HFpEF) is prevalent and has few evidence-based therapies. In a trial of HFpEF patients with specialized pacemakers, treatment with an accelerated personalized pacing rate averaging 75 bpm (myPACE) markedly improved quality of life, NT-proBNP, physical activity, and atrial fibrillation burden compared with the standard lower rate setting of 60bpm (usual care). Methods: Provider-initiated echocardiographic studies obtained before and after the trial were assessed for changes in left ventricular (LV) structure and function amongst participants who continued their pacing assignment. The analytic approach aimed to detect differences in standard and advanced echocardiographic parameters within and between study arms. Results: Of the 100 trial participants, 16 patients in the myPACE arm and 20 in the usual care arm had a qualifying set of echocardiograms with a mean±SD time of 3.7±2.0 years apart. Heart rates were expectedly higher among myPACE patients after the trial (in bpm: myPACE 75±6 vs. usual care 65±7, p&lt;0.001). Sustained exposure to moderately accelerated pacing resulted in a reduced septal wall thickness (myPACE 1.07±0.05mm vs usual care 1.23±0.04, p=0.008) and a lower LV mass to systolic volume ratio (myPACE 1.52±0.09 vs. usual care 1.84±0.05, p=0.038) accompanied by a small reduction in LV ejection fraction (in %: myPACE 55±1 vs usual care 60±1, p=0.015). These changes were paralleled by marked improvements in heart failure-related quality of life (MLHFQ points: myPACE 17±21 vs usual care 28±22, p&lt;0.001). Markers of diastolic function and LV performance were not affected. Conclusions: Exposure to continuous accelerated pacing in HFpEF is associated with a reduced LV wall thickness and a lower mass to systolic volume ratio and ejection fraction that remained within normal limits.

Abstract 16721: Concentrations of Troponin I but Not Cardiac Troponin T Are Associated With 7-year Changes in Left Ventricular Structure and Function in Older Adults: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Community (ARIC) Study

Introduction: High-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) and I (hs-cTnI) are strongly associated with incident heart failure (HF) and left ventricular (LV) remodeling. Their associations with longitudinal changes in cardiac structure and function are less clear. Methods: Among 1,908 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study who were free of coronary disease, HF, or atrial fibrillation and had echocardiography at study Visits 5 (2011-2013) and 7 (2017-2019), we assessed the associations of log-transformed hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI at Visit 5 with absolute changes in LV structure and function between Visit 5 and 7 (median of 6.6 [IQR 6.1-7.0] years) using multivariable linear regression with the exposures modeled as restricted cubic spline models. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race, BMI, diabetes, hypertension and eGFR at Visit 5, blood pressure and heart rate at both visits. Results: At Visit 5, the mean age (years) was 74 (SD 4), 60% were female, 24% reported Black race and the median (p25-p75) concentrations of hs-cTnT and hs-cTnI were 9 (6-13) ng/L and 2.7 (1.9-4.0) ng/L respectively. In adjusted models, higher hs-cTnI concentration was associated with 7-year decline in LV systolic function (ejection fraction, global longitudinal and circumferential strain; Figure ). In contrast, hs-cTnT was not consistently associated with changes in cardiac function. Changes in hs-cTnI, but not hs-cTnT, were also associated with greater increases in left atrial volume. Neither were associated with changes in LV mass or volume. Conclusions: Higher hs-cTnI, but not hs-cTnT, concentrations are associated with greater declines in LV function over ~7 years in late life independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors. These findings support previous findings of cTnI to be more cardiac specific than cTnT.