Pericardial fat,insulin resistance,and left ventricular structure and function in morbid obesity

Background and aimMorbid obesity is often accompanied by insulin resistance and increased ectopic fat surrounding the heart. We evaluated the relation of epicardial and pericardial fat with insulin resistance and left ventricular (LV) structure and function.Methods and resultsEpicardial and pericardial fat thicknesses were determined at 2-dimensional echocardiography in 80 morbid obese subjects [age 42 ± 12 years, 31% men, body mass index (BMI) 44.4 ± 7 kg/m²]. LV hypertrophy (LV mass ≥51 g/m^2.7), inappropriately high LV mass for a given cardiac workload (observed vs predicted LV mass >128%), and stress-adjusted LV mid-wall fractional shortening were determined. Pericardial and epicardial fat thicknesses had direct associations with BMI (r = 0.40 and 0.45, both p < 0.01) and waist circumference (r = 0.37 and 0.45, both p < 0.01). Pericardial (partial r = 0.35, p < 0.01), but not epicardial fat thickness (partial r = 0.05, p = n.s.), was correlated with homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance after adjustment for BMI. Pericardial fat also had a strong negative correlation with mid-wall fractional shortening (p = 0.01) and a positive one with inappropriately high LV mass (p < 0.01), while no such relation was found for epicardial fat (both p = n.s.). Independently of age, male sex, BMI, and anti-hypertensive treatment, pericardial fat thickness had an independent positive association with inappropriately high LV mass (β = 0.29, p = 0.02), and a negative one with stress-adjusted mid-wall fractional shortening (β = −0.26, p = 0.04).ConclusionsPericardial fat thickness is associated with insulin resistance, inappropriately high LV mass, and LV systolic dysfunction in obese individuals. Findings from this study confirm the existence of a connection between insulin resistance, cardiac ectopic fat deposition and cardiac dysfunction in morbid obesity.     

Middle-term stability of epicardial left ventricular electrodes for cardiac resynchronization therapy

IntroductionCardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is currently considered an effective and safe way to treat patients with severe heart failure. Unsuccessful attempts at endovascular insertion of the left ventricular (LV) electrode should prompt a consideration of having the electrode implanted by a cardiac surgeon.AimsThe aims of our work were to evaluate the electric parameters of CS-implanted LV electrodes and to compare them with transvenous implanted electrodes, identify the causes of endovascular implantation failure, compare the clinical and echocardiographic resynchronization effects, and compare the safety of both approaches.Methods and resultsPatients indicated for CRT had the LV electrode implanted either endovascularly (“endo” group) or epicardially (“epi” group; in cases of endovascular approach failure or as a part of another CS procedure). The trial was planned as a case–control study. Each group comprised 92 patients (26 females, 66 males) with an average age of 69 (epi) and 68 (endo) years, respectively. LV stimulation was effective at the 3-year follow-up in 98.1% of patients in the epi group and in 96.6% of patients in the endo group (p = NS). The groups were comparable with respect to the stimulation threshold both before discharge and at the 3-year follow-up. At the 1-month follow-up, this threshold was significantly higher in the epi group (1.62 V vs. 1.06 V, p < 0.001) and the same was true for the 1-year and 2-year follow-ups (1.57 V vs. 1.09 V and 1.54 V vs. 1.21 V, respectively; p < 0.001). Energetic output during LV stimulation was significantly higher in the epi group at all time points. The overall procedural effectiveness of endovascular implantation was 94.6%. Clinical response to CRT was noted in 71.4% of epi group patients and in 68.1% of endo group patients (p = NS). The average absolute increase in LV ejection fraction was comparable in both groups (6.0% vs. 7.2%, p = NS). Significantly higher 1- and 3-year mortality was noted in the epi group (19.0% vs. 5.5% and 21.7% vs. 6.5%, respectively; p < 0.001).ConclusionEpicardial electrodes are capable of effective LV stimulation, as shown during middle-term follow-up. Epicardial LV stimulation is more demanding energetically. Resynchronization effects are similar in patients with epicardial and endocardial LV electrodes; however, the mortality of patients with epicardial LV electrodes seems to be significantly higher.     

Prognostic difference between paroxysmal and non-paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

BackgroundThe association of atrial fibrillation (AF) with sudden death and the difference in prognostic significance between paroxysmal and non-paroxysmal AF remains unclear in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Our aim was to investigate the clinical significance of AF, and to assess the prognostic difference between paroxysmal and non-paroxysmal AF in HCM patients.MethodsThe study included 430 HCM patients. Documentation of AF was based on electrocardiograms obtained either after the acute onset of symptoms or fortuitously during routine examination of asymptomatic patients.ResultsAF was detected in 120 patients (27.9%). In the patients with AF, syncope and non-sustained ventricular tachycardia were more frequent and the left atrial dimension was larger. Multivariate analysis showed that AF was an independent determinant of the outcome, including the risk of HCM-related death (adjusted hazard ratio 3.57, p < 0.001) and sudden death (adjusted hazard ratio 2.61, p = 0.038). When patients with AF were divided into subgroups with paroxysmal AF (n = 75) or non-paroxysmal AF (n = 45), only paroxysmal AF was identified as an independent determinant of the outcome, including the risk of HCM-related death (adjusted hazard ratio 5.24, p < 0.001) and sudden death (adjusted hazard ratio 4.67, p = 0.002).ConclusionsAF is a common supraventricular arrhythmia in HCM and has an adverse influence on the prognosis. In addition, each type of AF had a different clinical impact, with paroxysmal AF being a significant independent determinant of an adverse outcome, including sudden death.     

The worrisome liaison between left ventricular systolic dysfunction and mitral annulus calcification in type 2 diabetes without coronary artery disease: Data from the SHORTWAVE study

Background and AimMitral annulus calcification (MAC) is a marker for coronary artery disease (CAD) and predicts poor outcome in the general population. No data are available on MAC in patients with type 2 diabetes. In these patients we assessed prevalence of MAC and the relation between MAC and left ventricular (LV) systolic function.Methods and ResultsAs many as 386 patients with type 2 diabetes without CAD were studied with Doppler echocardiography. LV systolic dysfunction was defined by analyzing 120 healthy subjects. Stress-corrected midwall shortening (sc-MS) and mitral annular peak systolic velocity (peak S′) were considered as indexes of LV circumferential and longitudinal shortening and classified low if <89% and <8.5 cm/s, respectively (10th percentiles of controls). Patients who had MAC (107 = 28%) were older with longer duration of DM and were receiving more anti-hypertension medications than those who had not. At echocardiographic evaluation patients with MAC showed higher LV mass, larger left atrial volume (LAV), reduced sc-MS (88.4 ± 14.9 vs 92.6 ± 14.3%; p = 0.01) and peak S′ (8.9 ± 2.2 vs 10.0 ± 2.0 cm/s; p < 0.001) than patients without MAC. Multiple logistic regression demonstrated older age (OR 1.03 [IC 1.01–1.06], p = 0.009), larger LAV (OR 1.19 [IC 1.11–1.28], p < 0.001) and combined reduction in sc-MS and peak S′ (OR 3.00 [IC 1.57–5.72], p = 0.001) as independent factors associated with MAC.ConclusionsMAC is detectable in one fourth of patients with type 2 diabetes without CAD and is mostly related to LV systolic dysfunction expressed as combined impairment of LV circumferential and longitudinal fibers, independent of age and LAV.     

Impact of dronedarone on patients with atrial fibrillation and diabetes: A sub-analysis of the ATHENA and EURIDIS/ADONIS studies

AimThis post hoc analysis evaluated efficacy and safety of dronedarone in atrial fibrillation (AF) and atrial flutter (AFL) patients with/without diabetes.MethodsPatients were categorized according to baseline diabetes status. Time-to-event analyses were performed using Kaplan-Meier method. Hazard-ratios were assessed using Cox models.Results945/4628 (dronedarone = 482; placebo = 463) patients in ATHENA and 215/1237 (dronedarone = 148; placebo = 67) patients in EURIDIS/ADONIS studies had diabetes. In ATHENA, there were higher rates of CV hospitalization/death in patients with diabetes (39.5%) than without diabetes (34.7%). Incidence of first CV hospitalization/death was lower in patients with diabetes treated with dronedarone (35.1%) than placebo (44.1%), and time to this event was longer in those treated with dronedarone than placebo (log-rank p = 0.005). Median AF/AFL recurrence time was longer in patients treated with dronedarone than placebo in patients with diabetes (ATHENA: 722 vs 527 days, log-rank p = 0.004; EURIDIS/ADONIS: 100 vs 23 days, log-rank p = 0.15) or without diabetes (ATHENA: 741 vs 492 days, log-rank p < 0.0001; EURIDIS/ADONIS: 120 vs 59 days, log-rank p = 0.0002). Occurrence of any treatment-related adverse events with dronedarone was similar for patients with/without diabetes and was comparable to placebo.ConclusionsDronedarone reduced incidence of CV hospitalization/death, AF/AFL recurrence and increased time to these events in AF/AFL patients with/without diabetes.Trial registrationNot applicable, as it was a post hoc analysis. This article is based on previously conducted studies (ATHENA: NCT00174785, EURIDIS: NCT00259428, and ADONIS: NCT00259376).     

Cardiac fibrosis detected by magnetic resonance imaging on predicting time course diversity of left ventricular reverse remodeling in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

This study aimed to identify the association between the time course of left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR) and late gadolinium enhancement in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (LGE-cMRI) in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM). We identified 214 IDCM patients treated by optimal pharmacotherapies. LVRR was defined as ≥10 % increment in LV ejection fraction along with ≥10 % reduction in LV end-diastolic dimension. Findings of LGE-cMRI focusing on presence and extent of LGE were evaluated at baseline. Echocardiographic evaluation for detecting LVRR was performed in all patients for 3 years. The primary endpoint was defined as composite events (CEs) including readmission for heart failure, detection of major ventricular arrhythmia, and all-cause mortality. LVRR was found at <1 year in 59 patients (28 %, early responder), ≥1 year in 56 patients (26 %, late responder), and was absent in 99 patients (46 %, non-responder). Multivariate Cox-proportional hazards analysis revealed that both early responders (P = 0.02) and late responders (P < 0.001) had lower incidence of CEs than non-responders. Among 66 subjects (23 %) with complete cMRI evaluation, LGE was detected more often in late and non- than early responders (65, 83 vs. 23 % P < 0.001, respectively), whereas the LGE area was smaller in both early and late than non-responders (2 ± 3, 4 ± 3 vs. 12 ± 10 %, P < 0.001, respectively). In conclusion, evaluating the presence and the extent of LGE is useful for predicting the clinical differences of LVRR time course and subsequent long-term outcomes.     

Absence of an independent association between serum uric acid and left ventricular mass in Caucasian hypertensive women and men

Background and aimExperimentally uric acid may induce cardiomyocyte growth and interstitial fibrosis of the heart. However, clinical studies exploring the relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) and left ventricular (LV) mass yielded conflicting results.The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationships between SUA and LV mass in a large group of Caucasian essential hypertensive subjects.Methods and resultsWe enrolled 534 hypertensive patients free of cardiovascular complications and without severe renal insufficiency. In all subjects routine blood chemistry, including SUA determination, echocardiographic examination and 24 h ambulatory blood pressure (BP) monitoring were obtained.In the overall population we observed no significant correlation of SUA with LV mass indexed for height^2.7 (LVMH^2.7) (r = 0.074). When the same relationship was analysed separately in men and women, we found a statistically significant correlation in female gender (r = 0.27; p < 0.001), but not in males (r = ?0.042; p = NS). When we grouped the study population in sex-specific tertiles of SUA, an increase in LVMH^2.7 was observed in the highest tertiles in women (44.5 ± 15.6 vs 47.5 ± 16 vs 55.9 ± 22.2 g/m^2.7; p < 0.001), but not in men.The association between SUA and LVMH^2.7 in women lost statistical significance in multiple regression analyses, after adjustment for age, 24 h systolic BP, body mass index, serum creatinine and other potential confounders.ConclusionsOur findings do not support an independent association between SUA and LV mass in Caucasian men and women with arterial hypertension.     

Left ventricular diastolic performance at rest is essential for exercise capacity in patients with non-complicated myocardial infarction

IntroductionIn patients with recent myocardial infarction (MI) limited exercise capacity during physical activity is an important symptom and the base for future treatment. The myocardial injury after MI leads to both systolic and diastolic left ventricular (LV) dysfunction.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the relevance of systolic and diastolic LV function for cardiopulmonary exercise capacity in patients with prior MI.MethodsSixty-five consecutive patients after first MI without signs and symptoms of heart failure, aged 52 ± 6 years, were included in the study. The following echo parameters were evaluated: LV ejection fraction (LVEF), peak early and late diastolic velocities (E, A), deceleration time of E wave (dec t E), ratio of early trans-mitral to early annular diastolic velocities (E/e′), velocity propagation of early filling (Vp), and diameters and volumes of LV and left atrium (LA). CPET variables included: oxygen uptake at peak exercise (peak VO₂), oxygen pulse (VO₂ HR), VE/VCO₂ slope, circulatory power (CP) and recovery half time (T1/2).ResultsSignificant correlations were demonstrated between peak VO₂ and E/e’ (p < 0.001), peak VO₂ and dec t E (p < 0.001), VO₂ HR and E/e′ (p = 0.002) and between VE/VCO₂ and E/e′ (p < 0.001). Twenty patients with elevated LV filling pressure achieved significantly lower peak VO₂ (1624 vs. 1932 ml, p = 0.027) VO₂ HR (11.70 vs. 14.05, p = 0.011) and CP (287,073 vs. 361,719, p = 0.014). By using multivariate regression model we found that only E/e′ (p = 0.001) and dec t E (p = 0.008) significantly contributed to peak VO₂.ConclusionsDiastolic dysfunction, particularly LV filling pressure, determine exercise capacity, despite differences in LV ejection fraction in patients with prior MI.     

Clinical significance of endomyocardial biopsy in conjunction with cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to predict left ventricular reverse remodeling in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) are useful modalities to study the characteristics of myocardial tissue. However, the prognostic impact of both diagnostic tools to predict subsequent left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR) has not been well elucidated. A total of 187 consecutive patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM) who were treated by optimal pharmacotherapy (OPT) and underwent EMB of the LV wall were investigated. The myocardial specimens were semiquantitatively evaluated measuring cardiomyocyte degeneration (CD), interstitial fibrosis (IF), and hypertrophy. In addition, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE)-CMR was performed in 78 (48 %) patients. Seventy-eight (48 %) patients developed LVRR, defined as a ≥10 % increase in LV ejection fraction with a ≥10 % decrease in indexed LV end-diastolic dimension at 12 months after OPT. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that CD (P = 0.003), but not IF (P = 0.320), was an independent predictor of LVRR. In the patients with not only EMB but also CMR, the CD score and LGE area were independent predictors of LVRR (odds ratios/P values 0.268/0.010, 0.855/<0.001, respectively). The patients with mild CD and negative LGE had a better achievement rate of LVRR than those with severe CD and positive LGE (74 vs. 19 %). A combination of CD score on EMB and LGE-CMR is useful to predict subsequent LVRR in IDCM patients.     

Increased hemoglobin A1c level associates with low left atrial appendage flow velocity in patients of atrial fibrillation

Background and aimsHigh hemoglobin A1c (HbAlc) level is associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk and thromboembolic events [1]. The study sought to explored the association between HbAlc and left atrial appendage flow velocity (LAAV) among non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) patients.Methods and resultsA total of 249 consecutive non-valvular AF patients who underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were divided into two subgroups according to the median of LAAV level (<45 cm/s, ≥45 cm/s). Blood samples and other baseline clinical data of all patients were collected and analyzed. The low LAAV group included 126 patients and the high LAAV group included 123 patients. Patients in the low LAAV group were older and had a higher percentage of persistent AF, chronic heart failure, and higher CHA2DS2-VASc score (P < 0.05). HbAlc level in the low LAAV group was significantly higher than the high LAAV group [6.1 (5.7–6.5)% vs 5.9 (5.6–6.2)%, P = 0.010]. The low LAAV group had larger left atrial diameter (LAD), left atrial area (LAA), higher left atrial pressure (LAP), and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P < 0.05). Spearman rank correlation analysis showed that the HbAlc level was negatively correlated with LAAV (r = −0.211, P = 0.001). Multivariate analysis indicated that female gender (OR = 2.233, 95% CI 1.110–4.492, P = 0.024), persistent AF (OR = 6.610, 95% CI 3.109–14.052, P < 0.001), and HbAlc (OR = 1.903, 95% CI 1.092–3.317, P = 0.023) were independent factors that associated with low LAAV in AF patients.ConclusionIncreased HbAlc level is associated with decreased LAAV and may reflect a low contractile function of the left atrial appendage.     

Elevation of hemoglobin A1c increases the risk of decline in left ventricular systolic function among patients with coronary artery disease

AimsThe aim of this study was to investigate the association of HbA1c and left ventricular (LV) systolic function among patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).MethodsCAD patients from the Cardiorenal ImprovemeNt II (CIN-II, NCT05050877) registry were included in the study. They were separated into four groups based on HbA1c levels (Q1: HbA1c<5.7%; Q2: 5.7% ≤ HbA1c < 6.1%; Q3: 6.1% ≤ HbA1c < 6.9%; Q4: HbA1c ≥ 6.9%). The endpoint was decline in LV systolic function, defined as an absolute decrease in LV ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥10% from baseline to follow-up with 3–12 months. The association of HbA1c and LVEF was assessed by logistics regression models.ResultsCAD patients (n = 3,994) (age 62.9 ± 10.6 years; 22.2% female) were included in the final analysis. A decline in LV systolic function was recorded in 429 (11%) patients during follow-up. After fully adjusting for confounders, HbA1c was significantly associated with the high risk of decline in LV systolic function (OR 1.12 [95%CI 1.05-1.20] P = 0.001). By stratifying HbA1c as four groups, there is a significantly increased risk of decline in LV systolic function when HbA1c ≥6.1% (Q2, Q3 and Q4 vs Q1, with OR 1.22 [0.88–1.68] P = 0.235; OR 1.48 [1.07–2.05] P = 0.019; OR 1.60 [1.160–2.22] P = 0.004, respectively). Meanwhile, patients with decline in LV systolic function had a higher risk of cardiovascular death.ConclusionsElevated HbA1c is a predictor of decline in LV systolic function in CAD patients. Clinicians should be aware of the risk of decline in LV systolic function in CAD patients with elevated HbA1c, and take measures as soon as possible.     

Associations between adipokines and atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AimsAlthough overweight and obesity are associated with increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF), the underlying mechanisms are not well characterised. Recent data suggest that this link may be partly due to abnormal adipose tissue-derived cytokines or adipokines. However, this relationship is not well clarified. To evaluate the association between adipokines and AF in a systematic review and meta-analysis.Data synthesisPubMed, Embase, and Web of Science Core Collection were searched from inception through 1^st March 2021. Studies were included if they reported any adipokine and AF, with their quality assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Data were independently abstracted, with unadjusted and multivariable adjusted estimates pooled in a random-effects meta-analysis. Data are presented for overall prevalent or incident AF and AF subtypes (paroxysmal, persistent, or non-paroxysmal AF). A total of 34 studies, with 31,479 patients, were included. The following adipokines were significantly associated with AF in the pooled univariate data — apelin (risk ratio for prevalent AF: 0.05 [0.00–0.50], p = 0.01; recurrent AF: 0.21 [0.11–0.42], p < 0.01) and resistin (incident AF: 2.05 [1.02–4.1], p = 0.04; prevalent AF: 2.62 [1.78–3.85], p < 0.01). Pooled analysis of multivariable adjusted effect size estimates showed adiponectin as the sole independent predictor of AF incidence (1.14 [1.02–1.27], p = 0.02). Moreover, adiponectin was associated with non-paroxysmal AF (persistent AF: 1.45 [1.08–1.94, p = 0.01; non-paroxysmal versus paroxysmal AF: 3.14 [1.87–5.27, p < 0.01).ConclusionsAdipokines, principally adiponectin, apelin, and resistin, are associated with the risk of atrial fibrillation. However, the association is not seen after multivariate adjustment, likely reflecting the lack of statistical power. Future research should investigate these relationships in larger prospective cohorts and how they can refine AF monitoring strategies.PROSPERO IDCRD42020208879.     

Time course of left ventricular reverse remodeling in response to pharmacotherapy: clinical implication for heart failure prognosis in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy

The present study aimed to identify the clinical significance of differences in detection timings of left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR) on heart failure (HF) prognosis in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM). We investigated 207 patients with IDCM who underwent pharmacotherapeutic treatment. LVRR was defined as improvements in both LV ejection fraction ≥10 % and indexed LV end-diastolic dimension (LVEDDi) ≥10 %. Patients were stratified into 3 groups by LVRR timing: patients with LVRR <24 months (Early LVRR), those with LVRR ≥24 months (Delayed LVRR), and those without LVRR during the entire follow-up period (No LVRR). The major endpoint was first detection of composite event including readmission for decompensated HF, major ventricular arrhythmias, or all-cause mortality. LVRR was recognized in 108 patients (52 %): Early LVRR in 83 (40 %), Delayed LVRR in 25 (12 %), and No LVRR in 99 (48 %). The survival rate for the major endpoint was significantly higher for Delayed LVRR than for No LVRR (P = 0.001); there was no significant difference between Early and Delayed LVRR. Among patients without LVRR <24 months (Delayed + No LVRR), receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that the area under the curve for improvement in LVEDDi during the first 6 months for predicting subsequent LVRR (Delayed LVRR) [0.822 (95 % confidence interval, 0.740–0.916; P = 0.038)] was greater than that for improvement in LVEF. In conclusion, LVRR was a favorable prognostic indicator in patients with IDCM irrespective of its detection timing. Reduced LVEDDi during the first 6 months was predictive for subsequent LVRR in the later phase.     

Impact of left ventricular dysfunction and fluid balance on the outcomes of patients with sepsis

ObjectiveLeft ventricular (LV) dysfunction is a predictor of mortality in patients with sepsis. However, whether the adverse impact of LV dysfunction depends on fluid balance remains unclear. We retrospectively investigated the impact of LV dysfunction and fluid balance on various outcomes of patients with sepsis.MethodsCritically ill patients with sepsis were classified according to their LV function: normal LV function, diastolic dysfunction (septal e′ of <10 and E/e′ of ≥15 with ejection fraction of ≥50%), and systolic dysfunction (ejection fraction of <50%).ResultsThere were 83 (51.2%) patients with normal LV function, 39 (24.1%) with diastolic dysfunction, and 40 (24.7%) with systolic dysfunction. The cumulative and daily fluid balances after intensive care unit admission did not differ. However, acute kidney injury was more prevalent in the patients with diastolic and systolic dysfunction than in those with normal LV function (82.1%, 87.5%, and 69.9%, respectively; P = 0.065). LV dysfunction lengthened the duration of renal replacement therapy, independent of baseline renal dysfunction and the daily fluid balance (P = 0.008). Moreover, both diastolic and systolic dysfunction were associated with mortality (hazard ratio: 2.7 and 3.0; P = 0.047 and P = 0.028, respectively), regardless of the daily fluid balance, which was also a significant predictor of mortality (P < 0.001).ConclusionsLV dysfunction has an adverse impact on renal outcomes and mortality in patients with sepsis and seems to be independent of fluid balance. Additional therapeutic options to restore organ perfusion are needed for patients with sepsis who have LV dysfunction, in addition to intravenous fluid restriction.     

Hypocalcemia is related to left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease

BackgroundLeft ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is of a complex nature and is the predominant cause of congestive heart failure in this group of patients. This work aimed to evaluate the potential effect of disturbances in calcium-phosphorus (Ca-P) metabolism in patients with CKD on LV diastolic function as assessed by echocardiography.Materials and methodsThe study group consisted of 81 ambulatory patients with CKD, stages 2–5, with preserved LV systolic function–LV ejection fraction >50% and with sinus rhythm. Standard echocardiography was performed in all patients with tissue Doppler echocardiography for the evaluation of the systolic velocity and both diastolic velocities of LV (EmLV and AmLV). The following laboratory parameters were measured: serum creatinine concentration, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and the levels of urea, P, Ca, parathormone, platelet count, hemoglobin level, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels. Patients were divided into two groups according to the results of EmLV: group with LV diastolic dysfunction (EmLV < 8 cm/s) DF (+) and group with normal LV diastolic function DF (−), when EmLV was ≥8 cm/s.ResultsPatients in DF (+) group, as compared to DF (−) patients, manifested a lower serum Ca level and an elevated NT-proBNP level [9.03 ± 0.76 mg/dL vs 9.44 ± 0.78 mg/dL, p = 0.02, and 257.9 (32.6–12,633) pg/ml vs 149 (11.7–966) pg/ml, p = 0.035, respectively]. The area under the receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve of Ca for diastolic dysfunction was 0.627, 95% CI (0.511–0.734), p = 0.04, whereas ROC derived Ca value of ≤9.82 mg/dL was characterized by a sensitivity of 91.8% and specificity of 38.1% for diagnosing LV diastolic dysfunction. The only independent variable predicting LV diastolic dysfunction as measured by a multivariate logistic regression analysis was Ca level ≤ 9.82 mg/dL with odds ratio = 8.81 (95% CI 1.49–51.82), p = 0.014.ConclusionsHypocalcemia is an independent predictive factor for LV diastolic dysfunction in patients with CKD.     

Longitudinal changes of left and right cardiac structure and function in patients with end-stage renal disease on replacement therapy

BackgroundFew data are available regarding longitudinal changes of cardiac structure and function in end-stage chronic kidney disease (CKD). Aim of the present study is to describe serial echocardiographic findings in a cohort of dialyzed CKD patients.MethodsIn this retrospective longitudinal study, we included n = 120 dialyzed CKD patients who underwent at least 2 echocardiograms either 1, 2 or 3 years apart. After baseline echocardiogram, n = 112 had a further examination at year 1, n = 76 at year 2 and n = 45 at year 3. Echocardiographic examination included Tissue Doppler Imaging of both left (LV) and right (RV) ventricle.ResultsLV geometry and LV mass index did not significantly change over time. RV progressively dilated (mean change +1.3 mm, +1.1 mm and +3.1 mm at year 1, 2 and 3 respectively, p = 0.002, adjusted p = 0.003). Tissue Doppler parameters showed significant changes with regard to both LV (mean change of E/E’ +0.7, +1.3, +1.7 at year 1, 2 and 3 respectively p<0.001, adjusted p = 0.079) and RV (mean change of S wave (cm/sec) -1, -1.7, -2 at year 1, 2 and 3 respectively, p <0.001, adjusted p = 0.041). Decrease of RV S wave negatively correlated with E/E’ changes (r=-0.303, p = 0.002; r=-0.246, p = 0.049; r=-0.265, p = 0.089; at year 1, 2 and 3 respectively). LV ejection fraction (LVEF) progressively declined (p = 0.034, adjusted p = 0.140), albeit being significant lower against baseline only at year 3 (mean change -4.3%, p<0.05).ConclusionsIn dialyzed CKD patients we observed parallel worsening of LV diastolic and RV systolic function accompanied by RV dilation. LVEF decreased less sharply.     

Identifying high risk patients post myocardial infarction with reduced left ventricular function using loop recorders INSPIRE-ELR clinical study

AimsSudden cardiac death (SCD) continues to be a devastating complication amongst survivors of myocardial infarction (MI). Mortality is high in the initial months after MI. The aims of the INSPIRE-ELR study were to assess the proportion of patients with significant arrhythmias early after MI and the association with mortality during 12 months of follow-up.MethodsThe study included 249 patients within 14 days after MI with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤35% at discharge in 11 hospitals in India. Patients received a wearable external loop recorder (ELR) 5 ± 3 days after MI to monitor arrhythmias for 7 days.ResultsPatients were predominantly male (86%) with a mean age of 56 ± 12 years. In 82%, reperfusion had been done and all received standard of care cardiovascular medications at discharge. LVEF was 32.2 ± 3.9%, measured 5.1 ± 3.0 days after MI. Of the 233 patients who completed monitoring (7.1 ± 1.5 days), 81 (35%) experienced significant arrhythmias, including Ventricular Tachycardia/Fibrillation (VT/VF): 10 (4.3%); frequent Premature Ventricular Contractions (PVCs): 65 (28%); Atrial Fibrillation (AF): 8 (3.4%); chronic atrial flutter: 4 (1.7%); 2nd or 3rd degree Atrioventricular (AV) block: 4 (1.7%); and symptomatic bradycardia: 8 (3.4%). In total, 26 patients died. Mortality was higher in patients with clinically significant arrhythmia (at 12 months: 23.6% vs 4.8% with 19 vs 7 deaths, hazard ratio (HR) = 5.5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.3 to 13.0, p < 0.0001). Excluding 7 deaths during ELR monitoring, HR = 4.5, p < 0.001.ConclusionELR applied in patients with acute MI and LV dysfunction at the time of discharge identifies patients with high mortality risk.     

Assessment of ventricular dysfunction in Egyptian children with Beta-thalassemia major

Objective/BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to evaluate serum cardiac troponin I and serum N-terminal (NT) pro-brain natriuretic peptide (pro-BNP) levels and the utility of tissue Doppler imaging in assessing cardiovascular changes following left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in children with beta-thalassemia major (β-TM). In children with β-TM who depend on regular blood transfusion, cardiac iron toxicity is a common serious complication. The most common cause of death among these patients is congestive heart failure.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study which included 50 patients with β-TM and 50 healthy controls. Tissue Doppler imaging was performed and levels of serum ferritin, cardiac troponin I, and NT pro-BNP were estimated for all included patients.ResultsSerum NT pro-BNP and cardiac troponin (cTnI) showed a significant increase in patients with β-TM (p < .001). In patients with β-TM, LV dimensions (LV end systolic diameter) and (LV end diastolic diameter) were large (p < .01); LV mass (p < .01), E wave, and E/A ratio (p < .01) were high (p < .05); and deceleration time was short (p < .05). Besides, transmitral ratio (E/E_m) (p < .05) and tricuspid valve velocity were higher (p < .05), and early diastolic velocity (E_m) (p < .05) and systolic wave velocity (S_m) were lower in patients with β-TM (p < .05). A significant positive correlation was detected between the pro-BNP and E wave (r = 0.558, p < .001), E/A ratio (r = 0.403, p < .001), E/E_m ratio (r = 0.576, p < .001), and ferritin (r = 0.545, p < .001).ConclusionPulsed wave tissue Doppler imaging and NT pro-BNP had a significant role in the estimation of ventricular dysfunction in children with β-TM.     

Ventricular twist in isolated left ventricular noncompaction

The study aimed at assessing the rotational motion of the left ventricle around the long axis in patients affected by isolated left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) and comparing their results with those of healthy volunteers.Patients and methodsThe study comprised eight patients with LVNC confirmed by echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging (mean age 41 ± 19 years; four males; left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] 45 ± 25%). The patients were divided into Group A with an LVEF above 50% (four patients; one male) and Group B with an LVEF below 50% (four patients; three males). For both groups, age- and sex-matched volunteers were found. The focus was on myocardial twist, rotation of the LV apex and base, times to reach maximal apical and maximal basal rotation and myocardial twist, as well as correlations between systolic function, rotation of individual planes and LV twist.ResultsWhen comparing LVNC patients with healthy volunteers, there were statistically significantly decreased systolic function (p = 0.004), larger diastolic dimension (p = 0.045) and decreased apical rotation (p = 0.01). Left ventricular twist was significantly decreased in the group of patients with LVNC and systolic dysfunction (p = 0.04). A statistically significant correlation was found between systolic function and LV apical rotation.ConclusionThe study showed a significant decrease in apical rotation and twist mechanism of the LV as measured using two-dimensional speckle tracking in patients with LVNC and decreased LV systolic function. Measuring these parameters could contribute to more accurate diagnosis and risk stratification of patients affected by this condition.     

El fracaso de la ablación por catéter de la fibrilación auricular se asocia con mayor remodelado y menos eficacia de una posterior ablación toracoscópica

Introduction and objectivesRecent observations suggest that patients with a previous failed catheter ablation have an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after subsequent thoracoscopic AF ablation. We assessed the risk of AF recurrence in patients with a previous failed catheter ablation undergoing thoracoscopic ablation.MethodsWe included patients from 3 medical centers. To correct for potential heterogeneity, we performed propensity matching to compare AF freedom (freedom from any atrial tachyarrhythmia > 30 s during 1-year follow-up). Left atrial appendage tissue was analyzed for collagen distribution.ResultsA total of 705 patients were included, and 183 had a previous failed catheter ablation. These patients had fewer risk factors for AF recurrence than ablation naïve controls: smaller indexed left atrial volume (40.9 ± 12.5 vs 43.0 ± 12.5 mL/m², P = .048), less congestive heart failure (1.5% vs 8.9%, P = .001), and less persistent AF (52.2% vs 60.3%, P = .067). However, AF history duration was longer in patients with a previous failed catheter ablation (6.5 [4-10.5] vs 4 [2-8] years; P < .001). In propensity matched analysis, patients with a failed catheter ablation were at a 68% higher AF recurrence risk (OR, 1.68; 95%CI, 1.20-2.15; P = .034). AF freedom was 61.1% in patients with a previous failed catheter ablation vs 72.5% in ablation naïve matched controls. On histology of the left atrial appendage (n = 198), patients with a failed catheter ablation had a higher density of collagen fibers.ConclusionsPatients with a prior failed catheter ablation had fewer risk factors for AF recurrence but more frequently had AF recurrence after thoracoscopic AF ablation than ablation naïve patients. This may in part be explained by more progressed, subclinical, atrial fibrosis formation.