Enhanced left atrial reservoir, increased conduit, and weakened booster pump function in hypertensive patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) has an impact on left atrial (LA) function in hypertensive patients and, if so, to select clinical factors influencing this relationship. Sixty-four essential hypertensive patients with PAF (group EHf) and fifty-five patients without PAF (group EH) were enrolled. Using acoustic quantification, the maximal and minimum LA volume (LAVmax, LAVmin), the LA volume at the end of rapid emptying (EREV), and the LA volume at the onset of atrial emptying (OAEV) were measured. The LA total emptying volume (TE; TE=LAVmax-LAVmin), LA rapid emptying volume (RE; RE=LAVmax-EREV), and left atrial ejection fraction (LAEF)=(OAEV-LAVmin)/OAEVx100% were calculated. LAVmax, LAVmax indexed to body surface area (LAVmaxI), TE and RE were significantly increased in group EHf. LAEF was clearly lower in group EHf than in group EH. The linear regression analysis showed that the frequency and total number of PAF episodes were the factors with the greatest influence on LAVmaxI (r=0.787, p<0.05). TE and frequency of PAF episodes were the most influential factors on RE (r=0.902, p<0.01). These results suggest that the occurrence of PAF in hypertensive patients is associated with enhanced LA reservoir and conduit function and worse booster pump function. The enhancement of LA reservoir function may be related to the frequency and total number of PAF episodes, and the increased LA conduit function may be related to the LA total emptying volume and frequency of PAF episodes.     

左心房追踪技术评价高血压心房颤动和孤立性心房颤动患者左心房功能

目的应用左心房追踪技术(LAVT)评价高血压心房颤动(房颤)和孤立性房颤患者左心房功能。方法实验组为50例房颤患者,分为孤立性房颤组24例,高血压房颤组26例,对照组为25例健康成人,用M型超声测量左心室舒张末期内径(LVEDD)、左心室收缩末期内径(LVESD)、舒张末期室间隔厚度(IVSTd)、舒张末期左心室后壁厚度(LVPWTd),用校正立方体积法(Teich)计算左心室射血分数(LVEF);二维超声测量患者收缩末期左心房前后径(LAD1)、上下径(LAD2)、横径(LAD3),收缩末期右心房上下径(RAD1)、横径(RAD2),应用LAVT测量左心房最大面积(LAAmax)、左心房最大容积(LAVmax)、最小容积(LAVmin)、收缩期左心房充盈速率峰值(dv/dtS)、舒张早期左心房排空速率峰值(dv/dtE)及舒张晚期左心房排空速率峰值(dv/dtA),并计算左心房排空分数(LAEF)。比较左心房的收缩及舒张功能。结果孤立性房颤组LAD1:(42.43±4.24)mm、LAD2:(60.22±5.79)mm、LAD3:(47.90±4.86)mm、RAD1:(55.04±5.06)mm、RAD2:(43.25±2.56)mm、LAAmax、LAVmax、LAVmin、dv/dtE与正常对照组LAD1:(33.81±2.96)mm、LAD2:(47.29±6.79)mm、LAD3:(39.04±3.53)mm、RAD1:(44.34±4.12)mm、RAD2:(36.06±3.16)mm、LAAmax、LAVmax、LAVmin、dv/dtE比较均明显升高(均为P<0.05),孤立性房颤组LAEF、dv/dtS、dv/dtA与正常对照组比较均明显减低(均为P<0.05),LVEDD、LVESD、IVSTd、LVPWTd、LVEF与正常对照组比较差异均无统计学意义(均为P>0.05)。与正常对照组比较,高血压房颤组的LAD1:(45.47±7.33)mm、LAD2:(61.35±7.39)mm、LAD3:(49.27±5.25)mm、RAD1:(56.18±4.36)mm、RAD2:(45.13±3.21)mm、LAAmax、LAVmax、LAVmin、dv/dtE均明显升高,LAEF、dv/dtS、dv/dtA均明显减低(均为P<0.05),LVEDD、LVESD、IVSTd、LVPWTd、LVEF差异均无统计学意义(均为P>0.05)。与孤立性房颤组相比,高血压房颤组LAAmax、LAVmax、LAVmin均明显升高(均为P<0.05),LAEF、dv/dtS、dv/dtE、dv/dtA均明显减低(均为P<0.05),LVEDD、LVESD、IVSTd、LVPWTd、LVEF、LAD1、LAD2、LAD3、RAD1、RAD2差异均无统计学意义(均为P>0.05)。结论 AF患者左心房功能明显下降高血压房颤患者左心房功能损害较孤立性房颤患者明显。LAVT能准确、快速的反映房颤患者左心房大小及功能的变化,在评价左心房功能方面有较高的重复性。     

The impact of hypertension on the electromechanical properties and outcome of catheter ablation in atrial fibrillation patients

Background

Although hypertension is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF), the impact of hypertension on the electromechanical properties and outcome of catheter ablation in AF patients is unclear.

Methods

AF patients [n=213, 136 paroxysmal AF (PAF) patients and 77 persistent AF patients] undergoing circumferential pulmonary vein (PV) isolation guided by CARTO mapping were enrolled, and then were divided into normotension group and hypertension group. Several left atrial (LA) electroanatomical parameters determined by the CARTO system were compared between groups.

Results

The LA bipolar voltage was lower in PAF patients with than without hypertension (1.44±1.09 vs. 1.92±0.76 mV, P=0.048); a significant difference was also observed in persistent AF patients. Hypertension significantly increased the size of the LA scar and low-voltage zones (LVZs) in both PAF and persistent AF patients. However, hypertension did not significantly affect recurrence in either PAF or persistent AF patients. The LA bipolar voltage was higher in PAF patients without recurrence than in those with recurrence (1.77±1.01 vs. 1.29±0.93 mV, P=0.048); a significant difference was also observed in persistent AF patients. PAF and persistent AF patients with AF recurrence had significantly larger LA scar and LVZs than patients without recurrence.

Conclusions

Hypertension has a significant impact on the LA electromechanical properties in AF patients, and the LA substrate has an important influence on the outcome of catheter ablation.     

Impact of pulmonary vein antrum isolation on left atrial size and function in patients with atrial fibrillation

Purpose

The success of PVAI in eliminating AF has been proven; however, its impact on the LA remains uncertain. This study aimed to determine the impact of pulmonary vein antrum isolation (PVAI) on left atrial (LA) size and function in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Consecutive patients with AF were included (n?=?206). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed before and after PVAI in all patients. A subgroup (n?=?52) underwent delayed enhancement MRI. Maximal LA volume (LAVmax) and minimal LA volume (LAVmin) were assessed by Simpson’s rule. LA function was determined by calculating LA ejection fraction (LA EF). LA fibrosis was manually encircled and summed in the region of interest.

Results

Single procedure success rate was 64 %. LAVmax decreased post-ablation in all patients (125.1 to 111.9 ml, p?<?0.001). LAVmin only decreased in patients with a successful outcome post-ablation (65.6 to 58.8 ml, p?<?0.001). As a result, LA EF only showed a marked reduction in patients with AF recurrences (42.7 % to 37.9 %, p?<?0.001). Post-ablation LA fibrosis could be visualized in 77 % of patients who underwent delayed enhancement MRI (mean amount 1.4 cm³). LA fibrosis showed no correlation with the decrease in LAVmax or LA EF.

Conclusions

PVAI resulted in a reduction of LAVmax in all patients, indicating an effect of ablation induced fibrosis. LAVmin only decreased in patients with a successful outcome, indicating an effect of reverse atrial remodeling. As a result, LA function post-ablation was preserved in patients with a successful outcome and decreased in patients with AF recurrence.     

Left atrial Frank-Starling law assessed by real-time, three-dimensional echocardiographic left atrial volume changes

Background

The Frank–Starling law describes the relation between left ventricular volume and function. However, only a few studies have described the relation between left atrial volume (LAV) and function.

Objective

To describe an LA Frank–Starling law by studying changes in LAV measured by real‐time, three‐dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE).

Methods

LAV was calculated by RT3DE in 70 patients at end‐systole (LAV_max), end‐diastole (LAV_min) and pre‐atrial contraction (LAV_pre‐A). According to LAV_max, patients were classified into three groups: LAV_max <50 ml (group I), LAV_max 50–70 ml (group II) and LAV_max >70 ml (group III). Calculated indices of LA pump function were active atrial stroke volume (SV), defined as LAV_pre‐A – LAV_min, and active atrial emptying fraction (EF), defined as active atrial SV/LAV_pre‐A ×100%

Results

Active atrial SV was significantly higher in group II than in group I (mean (SD) 19.0 (9.2) vs 8.2 (4.9) ml, p<0.0001), in group III it was non‐significantly lower than in group II (16.7 (12.5) vs 19.0 (9.2) ml). Active atrial SV correlated well with LAV_pre‐A (r = 0.56, p<0.001), but decreased with larger LAV_pre‐A. Active atrial EF tended to be higher in group II than in group I (43.1 (18.2) vs 33.2 (17.5), p<0.10), in group III it was significantly lower than in group II (26.2 (18.5) vs 43.1 (18.2), p<0.01).

Conclusion

A Frank–Starling mechanism in the left atrium could be described by RT3DE, shown by an increase in LA contractility in response to an increase in LA preload up to a point, beyond which LA contractility decreased.     

Effects of levosimendan versus dobutamine on left atrial function in decompensated heart failure

BACKGROUND:

Although the effects of levosimendan on the left ventricle (LV) have been studied, its effect on left atrial (LA) function is poorly understood, despite its key role in optimizing LV function.

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the effects of levosimendan and dobutamine on LA and LV function in patients with decompensated heart failure (DHF).

METHODS:

Seventy-four patients (mean [± SD] age 64±10 years) with DHF and an LV ejection fraction of 35% or lower were randomly assigned to receive levosimendan (n=37) or dobutamine (n=37). LA active emptying fraction, LA passive emptying fraction (PEF) and the ratio of mitral inflow early diastolic velocity to annulus velocity (E/e) were evaluated with pulsed wave and tissue Doppler imaging along with plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) level measurements before and after drug infusion.

RESULTS:

The ejection fraction was significantly increased in both groups. The levosimendan group had a greater decrease in BNP and a greater increase in active emptying fraction at 24 h compared with the dobutamine group. The PEF, E/e and deceleration time of the E wave were significantly improved in the levosimendan group, but not in the dobutamine group. Levosimendan-induced percentage change of BNP was significantly correlated with the percentage change of E/e and PEF (r=0.48 [P<0.005] and r=−0.38 [P<0.05], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS:

In patients with DHF, levosimendan and dobutamine both improve LV systolic function. However, levosimendan also improves LV diastolic function and LA performance in parallel with a greater improvement in neurohormonal activation compared with dobutamine.     

Atrial Fibrillation in Decompensated Heart Failure: Associated Factors and In-Hospital Outcome

Background

Studies on atrial fibrillation (AF) in decompensated heart failure (DHF) are scarce in Brazil.

Objectives

To determine AF prevalence, its types and associated factors in patients hospitalized due to DHF; to assess their thromboembolic risk profile and anticoagulation rate; and to assess the impact of AF on in-hospital mortality and hospital length of stay.

Methods

Retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study of incident cases including 659 consecutive hospitalizations due to DHF, from 01/01/2006 to 12/31/2011. The thromboembolic risk was assessed by using CHADSVASc score. On univariate analysis, the chi-square, Student t and Mann Whitney tests were used. On multivariate analysis, logistic regression was used.

Results

The prevalence of AF was 40%, and the permanent type predominated (73.5%). On multivariate model, AF associated with advanced age (p < 0.0001), non-ischemic etiology (p = 0.02), right ventricular dysfunction (p = 0.03), lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) (p = 0.02), higher ejection fraction (EF) (p < 0.0001) and enlarged left atrium (LA) (p < 0.0001). The median CHADSVASc score was 4, and 90% of the cases had it ≥ 2. The anticoagulation rate was 52.8% on admission and 66.8% on discharge, being lower for higher scores. The group with AF had higher in-hospital mortality (11.0% versus 8.1%, p = 0.21) and longer hospital length of stay (20.5 ± 16 versus 16.3 ± 12, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Atrial fibrillation is frequent in DHF, the most prevalent type being permanent AF. Atrial fibrillation is associated with more advanced age, non-ischemic etiology, right ventricular dysfunction, lower SBP, higher EF and enlarged LA. Despite the high thromboembolic risk profile, anticoagulation is underutilized. The presence of AF is associated with longer hospital length of stay and high mortality.     

Effect of the stellate ganglion on atrial fibrillation and atrial electrophysiological properties and its left-right asymmetry in a canine model

OBJECTIVE:

To investigate the effect of the stellate ganglion (SG) and its left-right asymmetry on atrial fibrillation (AF) inducibility, AF duration and atrial electrophysiological properties.

METHODS:

Sixteen adult mongrel dogs were randomly assigned to three groups. The control group (n=4) underwent 6 h rapid atrial pacing (RAP) only; the right SG (RSG) group (n=6) underwent 6 h RSG stimulation plus RAP; and the left SG (LSG) group (n=6) underwent 6 h LSG stimulation plus RAP. AF induction rate, AF duration, effective refractory period (ERP) and dispersion of ERP (dERP) were measured.

RESULTS:

In the RSG group, the induction rate of AF was significantly increased in sites in the right atrium (RA) compared with baseline (P<0.05). In the LSG group, the induction rate of AF was significantly increased (P<0.05) compared with baseline in the left atrium (LA), left superior pulmonary vein and left inferior pulmonary vein, respectively. Compared with RSG stimulation, right stellate ganglionectomy markedly decreased the AF induction rate of the RA (P<0.05). Compared with LSG stimulation, left stellate ganglionectomy markedly decreased the AF induction rate of the LA, the left superior pulmonary vein and the left inferior pulmonary vein (P<0.05). In the RSG group, the ERP was significantly shortened (P<0.05) and the dERP was significantly increased (P<0.05) in RA sites (P<0.05). The ERP was significantly shortened in the LSG group (P<0.05). The dERP was significantly increased (P<0.05) in LA and pulmonary vein sites (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Unilateral electrical stimulation of the SG in combination with RAP can successfully establish a canine model of acute AF mediated by excessive sympathetic activity. SG stimulation facilitates AF induction and aggravates electrical remodelling in sites in the atrium and pulmonary vein. Inhibiting sympathetic nerve activation through unilateral stellate ganglionectomy can reduce AF initiation.     

三维超声心动图及斑点追踪成像评价左心房不同构型阵发性房颤患者左心房功能的临床研究

目的应用实时三维超声心动图(3D-RTE)及二维斑点追踪成像(2D-STI)评价左心房不同构型的阵发性房颤患者(PAF)左心房结构和功能。方法入选2017年1月至2018年12月于解放军总医院第七医学中心收治的阵发性房颤患者98例。根据二维超声左心房容积指数(LAVI-2D)将房颤患者分为左心房容积正常组(LAN组,LAVI<34 ml/m^2,50例)和左心房容积扩大组(LAE组,LAVI≥34 ml/m^2,48例)。选择同期38例临床资料匹配者为对照组。实时三维超声心动图测定左心房最大容积(LAVmax),左心房最小容积(LAVmin),左心房容积指数(LAVI-3D)和左心房总排空分数(LATEF)。斑点追踪显像获取左心房纵向时间-应变曲线,记录收缩期平均应变(SSL)和各时相平均应变率(mSRs、mSRe、mSRa)。结果PAF患者LAVI平均水平高于对照组,且LAE组LAVI水平高于LAN组,LAVI-3D测量值较LAVI-2D测量值高(P均<0.05)。PAF患者LATEF平均水平低于对照组,且LAE组LATEF水平小于LAN组(P均<0.05)。与对照组比较,PAF患者mSSL、mSRs、mSRe和mSRa水平均降低,LAE组mSSL、mSRs、mSRe和mSRa水平小于LAN组,差异有统计学意义(P均<0.05)。结论三维超声心动图较二维测量左心房容积大,能更准确评估左心房容积。左心房容积无明显增大房颤患者,已出现左心房功能减低。左心房扩大者应变指标进一步下降,左心房功能减低明显。三维超声心动图及斑点追踪成像能早期评价房颤患者左心房功能异常。     

Quantitative evaluation of left atrial volumes and ejection fraction by 320-slice computed-tomography in comparison with three- and two-dimensional echocardiography: A single-center retrospective-study in 22 subjects

Purpose

To evaluate efficacy and reproducibility of 320-slice computed tomography (CT) for measuring left atrial (LA) maximum (LAVmax) and minimum volume (LAVmin) during the cardiac cycle, we compared CT with three- and two-dimensional (3D and 2D) transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE).

Materials and methods

LAVmax and LAVmin (ml), and LA ejection fraction (LAEF) (%) were assessed in 22 consecutive subjects (15 males, 59.5 ± 15.1 years) using retrospective electrocardiogram gated 320-slice CT (Aquilion One, Toshiba Medical) and 3D-TTE (IE-33, Phillips). LAVmax and LAVmin were selected from the time volume curve. LAEF was calculated as (LAVmax − LAVmin)/LAVmax × 100(%).

Results

Mean ± standard deviation (SD) of LAVmax and LAV min were significantly larger by CT than 3D-TTE or 2D-TTE (both P < 0.01). LAEF was 25.3 ± 13.1% by CT, 30.2 ± 6.8% by 3D-TTE (P = NS) and 33.9 ± 8.9% by 2D-TTE (P < 0.05). The correlation coefficients (CCs) between CT and 3D-TTE in LAVmax, LAmin, and LAEF were 0.64, 0.68 and 0.57, respectively. Mean difference ± 1.96SD of LAVmax, LAVmin and LAEF by Bland and Altman analysis calculated from CT minus 3D-TTE were 48.8 ± 59.1 ml, 41.1 ± 63.2 ml, and −4.9 ± 21.1%, respectively. The CCs and mean difference ± 1.96SD between CT and 2D-TTE had similar tendencies. The CCs of interobserver variation were (for CT, 3D-TTE, 2D-TTE, respectively): 0.90, 0.95 and 0.94 (LAVmax), 0.97 and 0.97 and 0.93 (LAVmin), and 0.64, 0.77 and 0.34 (LAEF).

Conclusions

320-slice CT enables direct LAV measurements and has high reproducibility and positive correlation with 3D and 2D TTE. Absolute value of LAV by CT was larger than that by 3D and 2D TTE.     

Atrial Fibrillation Ablation in Systolic Dysfunction: Clinical and Echocardiographic Outcomes

Background

Heart failure and atrial fibrillation (AF) often coexist in a deleterious cycle.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical and echocardiographic outcomes of patients with ventricular systolic dysfunction and AF treated with radiofrequency (RF) ablation.

Methods

Patients with ventricular systolic dysfunction [ejection fraction (EF) <50%] and AF refractory to drug therapy underwent stepwise RF ablation in the same session with pulmonary vein isolation, ablation of AF nests and of residual atrial tachycardia, named "background tachycardia". Clinical (NYHA functional class) and echocardiographic (EF, left atrial diameter) data were compared (McNemar test and t test) before and after ablation.

Results

31 patients (6 women, 25 men), aged 37 to 77 years (mean, 59.8±10.6), underwent RF ablation. The etiology was mainly idiopathic (19 p, 61%). During a mean follow-up of 20.3±17 months, 24 patients (77%) were in sinus rhythm, 11 (35%) being on amiodarone. Eight patients (26%) underwent more than one procedure (6 underwent 2 procedures, and 2 underwent 3 procedures). Significant NYHA functional class improvement was observed (pre-ablation: 2.23±0.56; postablation: 1.13±0.35; p<0.0001). The echocardiographic outcome also showed significant ventricular function improvement (EF pre: 44.68%±6.02%, post: 59%±13.2%, p=0.0005) and a significant left atrial diameter reduction (pre: 46.61±7.3 mm; post: 43.59±6.6 mm; p=0.026). No major complications occurred.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that AF ablation in patients with ventricular systolic dysfunction is a safe and highly effective procedure. Arrhythmia control has a great impact on ventricular function recovery and functional class improvement.     

A novel association of adenosine deaminase with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation: a propensity score analysis from a case-control study

Background

Prior work has identified age, body mass index, underlying heart disease, and other comorbidities as risk factors for atrial fibrillation. To date, studies have examined single baseline measures of traditional risk factors, and data on biomarker associations are lacking.

Objective

We sought to explore novel biochemical measures possibly associated with incident PAF after balancing the traditional risk factors.

Methods

Men or women aged ≥18 years that were hospitalized between 1^st Jan. 2010 and 31^st Dec. 2013 for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) and for health checkup (non-PAF) were included. We used propensity score methods to mitigate the influence of the nonrandom selection of PAF and non-PAF patients. Logistic regression was applied for analysis of risk factors for PAF.

Results

A total of 1,802 eligible patients were identified, in whom, 895 patients had at least one exclusion criterion. After excluding these patients, the total analytic cohort numbered 907 patients. Of these, 779 patients were for control group and 128 patients were for PAF group. Propensity score matching was used to obtain a balanced cohort of 124 patients per group. The PAF and non-PAF groups were well matched on demographic and clinical characteristics after propensity matching. Risk factors for PAF on multivariate stepwise logistic regression model included adenosine deaminase (ADA) [odds ratio (OR) =0.9160, P=0.015, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.8536-0.9829], mitral valvular regurgitation (OR =3.4611, P=0.001, 95% CI: 1.7000-7.0467) and left atrial diameter (OR =1.0913, P=0.001, 95% CI: 1.0387-1.1465). Only the ADA was a protective factor for the occurrence of PAF.

Conclusions

The ADA seems to be associated with PAF. The current study provides new insights into the prevention and treatment of PAF.     

Impact of Atrial Fibrillation Ablation on Left Ventricular Filling Pressure and Left Atrial Remodeling

Background

Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is associated with new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF), and the estimation of elevated LV filling pressures by E/e'' ratio is related to worse outcomes in patients with AF. However, it is unknown if restoring sinus rhythm reverses this process.

Objective

To evaluate the impact of AF ablation on estimated LV filling pressure.

Methods

A total of 141 patients underwent radiofrequency (RF) ablation to treat drug-refractory AF. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed 30 days before and 12 months after ablation. LV functional parameters, left atrial volume index (LAVind), and transmitral pulsed and mitral annulus tissue Doppler (e'' and E/e'') were assessed. Paroxysmal AF was present in 18 patients, persistent AF was present in 102 patients, and long-standing persistent AF in 21 patients. Follow-up included electrocardiographic examination and 24-h Holter monitoring at 3, 6, and 12 months after ablation.

Results

One hundred seventeen patients (82.9%) were free of AF during the follow-up (average, 18 ± 5 months). LAVind reduced in the successful group (30.2 mL/m² ± 10.6 mL/m² to 22.6 mL/m² ± 1.1 mL/m², p < 0.001) compared to the non-successful group (37.7 mL/m² ± 14.3 mL/m² to 37.5 mL/m² ± 14.5 mL/m², p = ns). Improvement of LV filling pressure assessed by a reduction in the E/e'' ratio was observed only after successful ablation (11.5 ± 4.5 vs. 7.1 ± 3.7, p < 0.001) but not in patients with recurrent AF (12.7 ± 4.4 vs. 12 ± 3.3, p = ns). The success rate was lower in the long-standing persistent AF patient group (57% vs. 87%, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Successful AF ablation is associated with LA reverse remodeling and an improvement in LV filling pressure.     

Inferior Vena Cava Diameter and Left Atrial Diameter Measure Volume but Not Dry Weight

Summary

Background and objectives

Hypervolemia is an important and modifiable cause of hypertension. Hypertension improves with probing dry weight, but its effect on echocardiographic measures of volume is unknown.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Shortly after dialysis, echocardiograms were obtained at baseline and longitudinally every 4 weeks on two occasions. Among 100 patients in the additional ultrafiltration group, 198 echocardiograms were performed; among 50 patients in the control group, 104 echocardiograms were performed.

Results

Baseline inferior vena cava (IVC)_insp diameter was approximately 5.1 mm/m²; with ultrafiltration, change in IVC_insp diameter was −0.95 mm/m² more compared with the control group at 4 weeks and −1.18 mm/m² more compared with the control group at 8 weeks. From baseline IVC_exp diameter of approximately 8.2 mm/m², ultrafiltration-induced change at 4 weeks was −1.06 mm/m² more and at 8 weeks was −1.07 mm/m² more (P = 0.044). From a baseline left atrial diameter of 2.1 cm/m², ultrafiltration-induced change at 4 weeks was −0.14 cm/m² more and at 8 weeks was −0.15 cm/m² more. At baseline, there was no relationship between interdialytic ambulatory BP and echocardiographic parameters of volume. The reduction in interdialytic ambulatory BP was also independent of change in the echocardiographic volume parameters.

Conclusions

The inferior vena cava and left atrial diameters are echocardiographic parameters that are responsive to probing dry weight; thus, they reflect excess volume. However, echocardiographic volume parameters are poor determinants of interdialytic BP, and their change does not predict the BP response to probing dry weight.     

Serum Potassium Levels Inversely Correlate with D-Dimer In Patients with Acute-Onset Atrial Fibrillation

Background

D-dimer values are frequently increased in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) compared to subjects in sinus rhythm. Hypokalemia plays a role in several cardiovascular diseases, but little is known about the association with AF.

Objective

D-dimer values are frequently increased in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) compared with subjects in sinus rhythm. Hypokalemia plays a role in several cardiovascular diseases, but little is known about the association with AF. The aim of this study was to investigate correlations between D-dimer and serum potassium in acute-onset AF (AAF).

Methods

To investigate the potential correlation between the values of serum potassium and D-dimer in patients with AAF, we retrospectively reviewed clinical and laboratory data of all emergency department visits for AAF in 2013.

Results

Among 271 consecutive AAF patients with D-dimer assessments, those with hypokalemia (n = 98) had significantly higher D-dimer values than normokalemic patients (139 versus 114 ng/mL, p = 0.004). The rate of patients with D-dimer values exceeding the diagnostic cut-off was higher in the group of patients with hypokalemia than in those with normal serum potassium (26.5% versus 16.2%; p = 0.029). An inverse and highly significant correlation was found between serum potassium and D-dimer (r = −0.21; p < 0.001), even after adjustments for age and sex (beta coefficient −94.8; p = 0.001). The relative risk for a positive D-dimer value attributed to hypokalemia was 1.64 (95% CI, 1.02 to 2.63; p = 0.040). The correlation remained statistically significant in patients free from antihypertensive drugs (r = −0.25; p = 0.018), but not in those taking angiotensin-receptor blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or diuretics.

Conclusions

The inverse correlation between values of potassium and D-dimer in patients with AAF provides important and complementary information about the thromboembolic risk of these patients.     

Autonomic neuropathy tests correlate with left ventricular mass and cardiac diastolic function in normotensive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and without left ventricular hypertrophy

BACKGROUND:

Hypertensive diabetic patients, when compared with essential hypertensive patients, have a higher left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and an impaired cardiac diastolic function (CDF). Autonomic neuropathy (AN) could contribute to this finding.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the relationship between AN tests, and LVMI and CDF in normotensive patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and without AN symptoms or left ventricular hypertrophy.

METHODS:

In 21 normotensive patients with DM2 (group 1) and 16 control subjects (group 2), LVMI and CDF were evaluated using atrial deceleration time, isovolumic relaxation time, E wave, A wave and E/A wave ratio. AN tests performed included a deep breathing test, Valsalva manoeuvre and lying-to-standing test.

RESULTS:

Groups did not differ in clinical and echocardiographic characteristics. None of the patients in either group presented with left ventricular hypertrophy. In group 1, there were correlations between the deep breathing test and LVMI (r=−0.6; P<0.01) and between the deep breathing test and E/A wave ratio (r=0.4; P<0.05). No correlations were found in the control group.

CONCLUSION:

In DM2 patients, AN tests correlated with LVMI and CDF before left ventricular hypertrophy, hypertension, impaired CDF and diabetic AN symptoms were present. The present study suggests that AN tests could be regularly performed in DM2 patients. Any abnormalities in tests should be followed by a cardiac evaluation.     

Left Atrial Longitudinal Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Healthy Aging Heart

Background:

Left atrial volume (LAV) and function are connected to the left ventricular (LV) haemodynamic patterns. To define the changes of LAV and functions to counterbalance age-related LV diastolic impairment, this study was undertaken.

Methods:

2D-Left Atrial Speckle Tracking Echocardiography (2D-LASTE) was used to define both LAV and functions in an aged healthy population (group II) respect to adult healthy controls (group I).

Results:

Results showed an increasing of left atrial volume indices (LAVI) (maximum, minimum, pre-a) in old subjects in comparison with those obtained in adult healthy controls. On the contrary, LAVI passive emptying unchanged and LAVI passive fraction reduced with advanced age. Finally, LAVI active emptying increased with advancing age to compensate the age-dependent left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. The values of global systolic strain (S); systolic strain rate (SrS); early diastolic strain rate (SrE), and late diastolic strain rate (SrA) were also calculated. With reference to the function, our study confirmed that LA conduit function deteriorates with age while booster pump increases respect to adult controls and reservoir phase is maintained.

Conclusions:

The echocardiographic findings obtained with conventional and tissue Doppler confirmed the connection between LA functions and volumes and age-related LV dysfunction. Conclusively, 2D-LASTE appears to be a reliable tool to evaluate the role of LA to compensate the derangement of left ventricle happening with ageing.     

Mechanical Dyssynchrony is Similar in Different Patterns of Left Bundle-Branch Block

Background

Left bundle-branch block (LBBB) and the presence of systolic dysfunction are the major indications for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Mechanical ventricular dyssynchrony on echocardiography can help identify patients responsive to CRT. Left bundle-branch block can have different morphologic patterns.

Objective

To compare the prevalence of mechanical dyssynchrony in different patterns of LBBB in patients with left systolic dysfunction.

Methods

This study assessed 48 patients with ejection fraction (EF) < 40% and LBBB consecutively referred for dyssynchrony analysis. Conventional echocardiography and mechanical dyssynchrony analysis were performed, interventricular and intraventricular, with ten known methods, using M mode, Doppler and tissue Doppler imaging, isolated or combined. The LBBB morphology was categorized according to left electrical axis deviation in the frontal plane and QRS duration > 150 ms.

Results

The patients'' mean age was 60 ± 11 years, 24 were males, and mean EF was 29% ± 7%. Thirty-two had QRS > 150 ms, and 22, an electrical axis between −30° and +90°. Interventricular dyssynchrony was identified in 73% of the patients, while intraventricular dyssynchrony, in 37%-98%. Patients with QRS > 150 ms had larger left atrium and ventricle, and lower EF (p < 0.05). Left electrical axis deviation associated with worse diastolic function and greater atrial diameter. Interventricular and intraventricular mechanical dyssynchrony (ten methods) was similar in the different LBBB patterns (p = ns).

Conclusion

In the two different electrocardiographic patterns of LBBB analyzed, no difference regarding the presence of mechanical dyssynchrony was observed.     

环肺静脉电隔离对阵发性心房颤动患者左房功能的影响

目的应用超声心动图技术评价环肺静脉电隔离术(CPVA)对阵发性心房颤动(PAF)患者左房功能的影响。方法 PAF患者81例,择期行CPVA,据术后PAF有无复发分为成功组及复发组;应用超声心动图测定术前及术后3天、3个月、12个月时静息状态下左房主动排空容积(LAAEV)、左房主动排空分数(LAAEF)、左房最大容积(LAVmax)、左房总排空容积(LATEV)、左房总排空分数(LATEF)、二尖瓣血流频谱A峰峰值流速(VA)、A峰速度时间积分(A-VTI)及左房射血力(LAEF)。结果成功组,术后3个月与术前比较,反应左房辅助泵功能的指标LAAEV、VA、A-VTI及LAEF均减少(P0.05);术后12个月与术前比较,LAAEV、VA、A-VTI及LAEF均增加(P0.05),反映左房储存功能的指标LAVmax、LATEV及LATEF均增加(P0.05)。复发组,术后12个月与术前比较,LAAEV、VA、A-VTI及LAEF均减少(P0.05)。结论 CPVA对PAF患者术后近期左房功能有不利影响,而术后远期功能得到明显改善。     

Echocardiographic Parameters and Survival in Chagas Heart Disease with Severe Systolic Dysfunction

Background

Echocardiography provides important information on the cardiac evaluation of patients with heart failure. The identification of echocardiographic parameters in severe Chagas heart disease would help implement treatment and assess prognosis.

Objective

To correlate echocardiographic parameters with the endpoint cardiovascular mortality in patients with ejection fraction < 35%.

Methods

Study with retrospective analysis of pre-specified echocardiographic parameters prospectively collected from 60 patients included in the Multicenter Randomized Trial of Cell Therapy in Patients with Heart Diseases (Estudo Multicêntrico Randomizado de Terapia Celular em Cardiopatias) - Chagas heart disease arm. The following parameters were collected: left ventricular systolic and diastolic diameters and volumes; ejection fraction; left atrial diameter; left atrial volume; indexed left atrial volume; systolic pulmonary artery pressure; integral of the aortic flow velocity; myocardial performance index; rate of increase of left ventricular pressure; isovolumic relaxation time; E, A, Em, Am and Sm wave velocities; E wave deceleration time; E/A and E/Em ratios; and mitral regurgitation.

Results

In the mean 24.18-month follow-up, 27 patients died. The mean ejection fraction was 26.6 ± 5.34%. In the multivariate analysis, the parameters ejection fraction (HR = 1.114; p = 0.3704), indexed left atrial volume (HR = 1.033; p < 0.0001) and E/Em ratio (HR = 0.95; p = 0.1261) were excluded. The indexed left atrial volume was an independent predictor in relation to the endpoint, and values > 70.71 mL/m² were associated with a significant increase in mortality (log rank p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The indexed left atrial volume was the only independent predictor of mortality in this population of Chagasic patients with severe systolic dysfunction.