Left Atrial Volume Determinants in Patients with Non-Ischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy.

BACKGROUND: Left atrial volume (LAV) is a predictor of prognosis in patients with heart failure. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the determinants of LAV in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). METHODS: Ninety patients with DCM and left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction ≤ 0.50 were included. LAV was measured with real-time three-dimensional echocardiography (eco3D). The variables evaluated were heart rate, systolic blood pressure, LV end-diastolic volume and end-systolic volume and ejection fraction (eco3D), mitral inflow E wave, tissue Doppler e' wave, E/e' ratio, intraventricular dyssynchrony, 3D dyssynchrony index and mitral regurgitation vena contracta. Pearson's coefficient was used to identify the correlation of the LAV with the assessed variables. A multiple linear regression model was developed that included LAV as the dependent variable and the variables correlated with it as the predictive variables. RESULTS: Mean age was 52 ± 11 years-old, LV ejection fraction: 31.5 ± 8.0% (16-50%) and LAV: 39.2±15.7 ml/m2. The variables that correlated with the LAV were LV end-diastolic volume (r = 0.38; p < 0.01), LV end-systolic volume (r = 0.43; p < 0.001), LV ejection fraction (r = -0.36; p < 0.01), E wave (r = 0.50; p < 0.01), E/e' ratio (r = 0.51; p < 0.01) and mitral regurgitation (r = 0.53; p < 0.01). A multivariate analysis identified the E/e' ratio (p = 0.02) and mitral regurgitation (p = 0.02) as the only independent variables associated with LAV increase. CONCLUSION: The LAV is independently determined by LV filling pressures (E/e' ratio) and mitral regurgitation in DCM.

Criteria for mitral regurgitation classification were inadequate for dilated cardiomyopathy.

BACKGROUND: Mitral regurgitation (MR) is common in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). It is unknown whether the criteria for MR classification are inadequate for patients with DCM. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the agreement among the four most common echocardiographic methods for MR classification. METHODS: Ninety patients with DCM were included. Functional MR was classified using four echocardiographic methods: color flow jet area (JA), vena contracta (VC), effective regurgitant orifice area (ERO) and regurgitant volume (RV). MR was classified as mild, moderate or important according to the American Society of Echocardiography criteria and by dividing the values into terciles. The Kappa test was used to evaluate whether the methods agreed, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between the absolute values of each method. RESULTS: MR classification according to each method was as follows: JA: 26 mild, 44 moderate, 20 important; VC: 12 mild, 72 moderate, 6 important; ERO: 70 mild, 15 moderate, 5 important; RV: 70 mild, 16 moderate, 4 important. The agreement was poor among methods (kappa=0.11; p<0.001). It was observed a strong correlation between the absolute values of each method, ranging from 0.70 to 0.95 (p<0.01) and the agreement was higher when values were divided into terciles (kappa = 0.44; p < 0.01) CONCLUSION: The use of conventional echocardiographic criteria for MR classification seems inadequate in patients with DCM. It is necessary to establish new cutoff values for MR classification in these patients.

3D Echo pilot study of geometric left ventricular changes after acute myocardial infarction.

BACKGROUND: Left ventricular remodeling (LVR) after AMI characterizes a factor of poor prognosis. There is little information in the literature on the LVR analyzed with three-dimensional echocardiography (3D ECHO). OBJECTIVE: To analyze, with 3D ECHO, the geometric and volumetric modifications of the left ventricle (VE) six months after AMI in patients subjected to percutaneous primary treatment. METHODS: Prospective study with 3D ECHO of 21 subjects (16 men, 56 ± 12 years-old), affected by AMI with ST segment elevation. The morphological and functional analysis (LV) with 3D ECHO (volumes, LVEF, 3D sphericity index) was carried out up to seven days and six months after the AMI. The LVR was considered for increase > 15% of the end diastolic volume of the LV (LVEDV) six months after the AMI, compared to the LVEDV up to seven days from the event. RESULTS: Eight (38%) patients have presented LVR. Echocardiographic measurements (n = 21 patients): I- up to seven days after the AMI: 1- LVEDV: 92.3 ± 22.3 mL; 2- LVEF: 0.51 ± 0.01; 3- sphericity index: 0.38 ± 0.05; II- after six months: 1- LVEDV: 107.3 ± 26.8 mL; 2- LVEF: 0.59 ± 0.01; 3- sphericity index: 0.31 ± 0.05. Correlation coefficient (r) between the sphericity index up to seven days after the AMI and the LVEDV at six months (n = 8) after the AMI: r: 0.74, p = 0.0007; (r) between the sphericity index six months after the AMI and the LVEDV at six months after the AMI: r: 0.85, p < 0.0001. CONCLUSION: In this series, LVR has been observed in 38% of the patients six months after the AMI. The three-dimensional sphericity index has been associated to the occurrence of LVR.

Assessing prognosis of pulmonary embolism using tissue-Doppler echocardiography and brain natriuretic peptide.

OBJECTIVE: To assess prognosis of pulmonary thromboembolism using tissue Doppler echocardiography and brain natriuretic peptide. METHODS: Patients aged over 18 years were evaluated within 24 hours of confirmed diagnosis (chest tomography/pulmonary scintigraphy) of pulmonary embolism using two-dimensional echocardiography and tissue Doppler for right ventricular systolic (s') velocities, strain, tissue tracking and myocardial performance index. Plasma brain natriuretic peptide was also obtained within 24 hour. The influence of echocardiographic and clinical variables on mortality was examined (up to 12 months) using Cox regression analysis. RESULTS: Out of 118 patients, 100 patients were included in the study (60 males, aged 55±17 years). Right ventricular dysfunction was observed in 28% using two-dimensional echocardiography. Tissue Doppler right ventricular variables (s' velocities, tissue tracking and strain) were decreased only for patients with right ventricular dysfunction, whereas myocardial performance index and systolic pulmonary artery pressure were increased. Mean brain natriuretic peptide value was 66±111pg/mL, also increased in patients with right ventricular dysfunction (136±146pg/mL). Mortality was 11% and related to age, malignancy and brain natriuretic peptide levels. The only echocardiographic variables capable of predicting events by univariate analysis were pulmonary pressure and right ventricular s' velocity. However, multivariate analysis showed only malignancy to predict mortality in this group. CONCLUSION: Lower tissue Doppler systolic velocities and elevated brain natriuretic peptide levels are associated with poorer prognosis in patients with pulmonary thromboembolism; but only malignancy emerged as an independent predictor of mortality.

Caseous calcification of the mitral annulus: case report.

We present a rare case of probable caseous calcification of the mitral. This pathology is more frequently detected in asymptomatic women older than 70 years. To recognize this image is important because echocardiography is the easiest way to elucidate this diagnosis, and more importantly because this structure could be easily misdiagnosed as tumors, thrombus and vegetations, which are much more common. Normally, it has a benign evolution, and the correct diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions.

Avaliação dos Parâmetros de Deformação Miocárdica pelo Ecocardiograma Tridimensional e Speckle Tracking em Atletas Competitivos / Evaluation of Strain Parameters by Three Dimensional Speckle Tracking Echocardiography in Competitive Athletes

Introdução: A ecocardiografia é fundamental na distinção entre adaptações fisiológicas promovidas pela atividade física e alterações patológicas. O ecocardiograma tridimensional com speckle tracking (3DSTeco) poderia mostrar-se acurado para a detecção de alterações subclínicas da função cardíaca. Objetivos: Determinar o efeito do exercício nos parâmetros da deformação miocárdica em atletas, por meio do 3DSTeco. Método: Realizado ecocardiograma convencional, ecocardiograma tridimensional (3Deco) e 3DSTeco em boxeadores de elite, para análise dos volumes do ventrículo esquerdo (VE), índice de massa indexada à superfície corpórea (IMISC), fração de ejeção (FE), strain global longitudinal (GLS), strain global circunferencial (GCS), strain global radial (GRS), twist, torção e área tracking. Estes dados foram comparados com medidas efetuadas em indivíduos controle não treinados. Resultados: Analisados 16 atletas e 14 controles, com idade (23 ± 4 vs 21 ± 4 anos; p = NS) e sexo (14 vs 12 homens) similares. A FE do VE foi normal e semelhante nos 2 grupos. O IMISC foi maior nos atletas (83 ± 21 vs 65 ± 15 g/m²; p < 0,05), assim como o GRS (24,7 ± 5.2 vs 16.3 ± 7.2; p = 0.007). Não houve diferença significativa para os demais parâmetros como GCS (-26 ± 2 vs -28 ± 6), GLS (-16 ± 2 vs -17 ± 3), twist (3.1 ± 1.3 vs 3.7 ± 1.9), torção (2.0 ± 0.8 vs 1.4 ± 0.4) e área tracking (37 ± 4 vs 41 ± 6). Conclusão: Atletas e indivíduos não treinados apresentam parâmetros de deformação miocárdica comparáveis pelo 3DSTeco, contudo, um incremento do GRS foi observado apenas nos atletas. O 3DSTeco poderia auxiliar na detecção precoce de alterações cardíacas subclínicas em atletas

Introduction: Echocardiography is fundamental in the distinction between physiological adaptations promoted by physical activity and pathological abnormalities. Three-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (3D-STE) could prove accurate in detecting subclinical abnormalities in cardiac function. Objectives: To determine the effect of exercise on the parameters of myocardial strain in athletes through 3D STE. Method: Elite boxers underwent conventional three-dimensional echocardiography (3D-echo) and 3D-STE to analyze left ventricular (LV) volumes, left ventricular mass indexed to body surface area (LVMIBSA), ejection fraction (EF), longitudinal global strain (LGS), circumferential global strain (CGS), radial global strain (RGS), twist, torsion and tracking area. These data were compared with measurements performed on untrained control individuals. Results: The analyses included 16 athletes and 14 controls with similar age (23 ± 4 vs. 21 ± 4 years; p = NS) and gender (14 vs. 12 males). LVEF was normal and similar in the 2 groups. LVMIBSA was higher in the athletes (83 ± 21 vs. 65 ± 15 g/m², p < 0.05), as well as RGS (24.7 ± 5.2 vs. 16.3 ± 7.2; p = 0.007). There was no significant difference for the other parameters, such as CGS (-26 ± 2 vs. -28 ± 6), LGS (-16 ± 2 vs. -17 ± 3), twist (3.1 ± 1.3 vs. 3.7 ± 1.9), torsion (2.0 ± 0.8 vs. 1.4 ± 0.4) and tracking area (37 ± 4 vs. 41 ± 6). Conclusion: Athletes and untrained individuals have comparable myocardial strain parameters on 3D-STE. However, an increase in RGS was observed only in the athletes. 3D-STE could help in the early detection of subclinical cardiac issues in athletes

Influência do posicionamento do paciente sobre a qualidade das imagens ecocardiográficas em exames realizados no leito / Influence of patient’s positioning on the quality of bedside echocardiography images

Fundamento: O ecocardiograma é particularmente importante para a avaliação de pacientes instáveis hemodinamicamente. Apesar de sua realização à beira do leito eliminar o risco resultante do transporte, a obtenção de imagens pode ficar prejudicada; o posicionamento adequado poderia contribuir para uma melhor qualidade de imagem e consequentemente análise do exame. Objetivo: Avaliar se o posicionamento do paciente pela enfermagem poderia influenciar a qualidade das imagens ecocardiográficas obtidas no leito. Métodos: Foram estudados de maneira consecutiva os pacientes com solicitação de exame no leito. Durante a realização de ecocardiograma transtorácico foram adquiridos vídeos dos planos para esternal longitudinal (PEL) e apical 4-câmaras(Apical-4C) e a imagem estática do fluxo aórtico (FAo) em decúbito lateral esquerdo (DLE) e em decúbito dorsal (DD). As imagens digitalizadas foram analisadas cegamente por dois observadores em relação ao tipo de decúbito utilizado. A qualidade das imagens foi graduada como 1:boa/ótima; 2:inadequada/ruim; e comparadas com o teste de Kappa e correlação de Pearson. Resultados: Foram estudados 68 pacientes, com idade de 69 ± 24 anos, sendo 37 do sexo masculino e superfície corpórea 1,85 ± 0,09 m2. Em relação aos cortes, as imagens em DLE apresentam melhor qualidade (p < 0,001) quando comparadas ao DD tanto para os vídeos Apical-4C (Kappa 0,19) e PEL (Kappa 0,25) e FAo (Kappa 0,13); a concordância entre os avaliadores para a qualidade das imagens foi de 95%. Conclusão: O posicionamento adequado do paciente no leito em decúbito lateral esquerdo contribui significativamente para a aquisição de imagens de melhor qualidade.

Background: Echocardiography is particularly important for assessing hemodynamically unstable patients. Despite being carried out at the bedside to eliminate the risk resulting from patient’s transportation, the imaging maybe impaired. Proper patient’s positioning could contribute to enhancing both the image quality and analysis of the exam. Objective: To evaluate whether patient’s positioning by nurses could influence the quality of the echocardiographic images obtained at the bedside. Methods: Patients whose examinations were requested to be carried out at the bedside were studied in a consecutive manner. During transthoracic echocardiography, videos of the parasternal longitudinal view (PLV) and 4-chamber apical view (Apical-4C) were obtained, as well as the still image of the aortic flow (FAo), in the left lateral decubitus (LLD) and supine decubitus (SD). The scanned images were blindly analyzed by two observers comparing the type of decubitus used. The image quality was rated as 1: good/excellent quality; 2: inadequate/poor, and then submitted to Kappa agreement test and Pearson correlation. Results: 68 patients were studied, aged 69 ± 24 years, 37 males and body surface 1.85 ± 0.09 m2. When the distinct views were compared, LLD images showed better quality (p < 0.001) when compared to SD for both the Apical-4C videos (Kappa 0.19) and PLV (Kappa 0.25) and FAo (Kappa 0.13); interobserver agreement of the quality of the images was 95%. Conclusion: Patient’s proper positioning in bed in left lateral decubitus contributes significantly to the acquisition of better quality images.

Exercise-induced ventricular arrhythmias: analysis of predictive factors in a population with sleep disorders.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the prevalence of ventricular arrhythmias induced by exercise in a population with sleep disorders and to analyze the triggering factors. METHODS: Patients were consecutively selected from the database of the Sleep Clinic of Universidade Federal de São Paulo. All subjects were submitted to basal polysomnography, blood sample collection, physical examination, 12-lead ECG, spirometry, cardiorespiratory exercise study on a treadmill, and echocardiogram. The Control Group was matched for age and gender. RESULTS: A total of 312 patients were analyzed. Exercise-induced ventricular arrhythmia was observed in 7%. The aortic diameter was larger (3.44 ± 0.30, 3.16 ± 0.36, p = 0.04) and the minimal saturation was lower (92.75 ± 3.05, 95.50 ± 1.73, p=0.01) in the ventricular arrhythmia group when compared to controls, respectively. After correction of the aortic root to body surface, there was only a trend to a larger diameter being associated with the emergence of arrhythmia. CONCLUSIONS: Exercise-induced ventricular arrhythmia was observed in 7% of sample and it was associated with lower oxygen saturation during exercise.

Left Atrial Volume Determinants in Patients with Non-Ischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy / Determinantes do Volume do Átrio Esquerdo em Pacientes com Cardiomiopatia Dilatada Não Isquêmica

Left atrial volume (LAV) is a predictor of prognosis in patients with heart failure.

O Volume do Átrio Esquerdo (VAE) é preditor prognóstico em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca.

Relation between three-dimensional and two-dimensional echocardiography and biochemical analysis in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction percutaneously treated.

OBJECTIVE: The prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction depends on multiple features that can demonstrate myocardial injury degree (such as serum markers of cardiac necrosis), and also on adaptive mechanisms relative to the acute event. The aim of the study was to assess the relation between biochemical and echocardiographic findings from three-dimensional echocardiographic (3D Echo) analysis and echocardiographic two-dimensional (2D Echo) left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction, submitted to primary percutaneous treatment. METHODS: A prospective study with 2D Echo and 3D Echo of 23 patients (17 males, mean age of 57 ± 13 years) with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction, primarily percutaneously treated (stent). Serum cardiac markers (creatine kinase MB, Troponin I and Myoglobin) and serum brain natriuretic peptide were compared to echocardiographic parameters (volumes, left ventricular ejection fraction and ventricular dyssynchrony index). The statistical analysis was performed using Pearson's correlation coefficient, 95% CI, p < 0.05, linear regression equation and Bland & Altman test. RESULTS: Pearson's correlation coefficient (r)relative to 3D left ventricular ejection fraction: 1- brain natriuretic peptide: r: - 0.7427, p < 0.0001; 2- creatine kinase MB: r: - 0.660, p = 0.001. Left ventricular ejection fraction 2D (r) : 1- brain natriuretic peptide: r: - 0.5478, p = 0.001; 2- creatine kinase MB: r: - 0.4800, p < 0.0277. Other associations were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: In this series, it was observed better correlation in regard to serum creatine kinase MB, brain natriuretic peptide and 3D Echo left ventricular ejection fraction, when compared to 2D Echo left ventricular ejection fraction.

Limitações do Doppler tecidual na avaliação da função diastólica em idosos / Tissue doppler imaging limitations for evaluating the diastolic function in elderly people / Limitaciones del doppler tisular en la evaluación de la función diastólica en añosos

Fundamento: O Doppler tecidual é uma técnica que complementa a análise da função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo. No entanto, alguns fatores podem influenciar suas medidas, entre estes a idade, cuja contribuição não está adequadamente esclarecida.Objetivo: Comparar o comportamento dos índices de função diastólica derivados do Doppler tecidual em indivíduos idosos hipertensos e não hipertensos.Métodos: Indivíduos com idade acima de 60 anos foram divididos em um grupo controle (GC), sem comorbidades cardiovasculares, e um grupo de hipertensos (HAS). Foram avaliadas as funções sistólica e diastólica (Doppler convencional e tecidual) do ventrículo esquerdo e obtidos os volumes do átrio esquerdo e massa ventricular. Resultados: Foram analisados 56 indivíduos (idade de 70,1 ± 6,6 anos), sendo 23 (41,1%) do GC e 33 (58,9%) do HAS. Os achados ecocardiográficos estruturais foram semelhantes entre os grupos, exceto para hipertrofia ventricular esquerda, mais frequente no HAS (34,4% versus 4,8%; p=0,017). A análise do Doppler tecidual não revelou diferenças entre os grupos (e’ septal: 8,0 ± 1,5 versus 7,2 ± 1,9cm/s; p=0,08 e e’ lateral: 9,8 ± 2,2 versus 8,7 ± 2,0cm/s; p=0,07, respectivamente para o GC e HAS). No HAS observou-se tempo de desaceleração da onda E (TD) mais prolongado (253 ± 62 versus 208 ± 36 ms no GC; p=0,003). Conclusão: Na análise da função diastólica em idosos, o Doppler tecidual não foi capaz de discriminar de forma acurada, indivíduos hipertensos, com maior potencial para a ocorrência de disfunção diastólica, de indivíduos não hipertensos. O TD revelou-se um parâmetro a ser valorizado nesta população.

Background: Tissue Doppler imaging is a technique that complements the analysis of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function. Some factors may influence these parameters, however the true influence of age on Tissue Doppler velocities remains unclear. Objective: To compare the indices of diastolic function derived from tissue Doppler imaging in hypertensive and non-hypertensive elderly individuals. Methods: Subjects aged over 60 years, divided into two groups were studied: a control group (GC) without cardiovascular comorbidities and a hypertensive group (HAS). Left ventricular systolic and diastolic function (conventional and tissue Doppler) was assessed, and measurements of left atrial volumes and LV mass were obtained. Results: The group consisted of 56 subjects (70.1 ± 6.6 years), 23 (41.1%) in the GC and 33 (58.9%) in the HAS. Except for LV hypertrophy, more frequent in the HAS group compared to HG (34.4% versus 4.8% respectively; p=0.017), all structural echocardiographic findings were similar. Tissue Doppler analysis revealed no differences between the groups (septal e’: 8.0 ± 1.5 vs. 7.2 ± 1.9 cm/s; p=0.083 and lateral e’: 9.8 ± 2.2 versus 8.7 ± 2.0 cm/s; p=0.074, respectively, for GC and HAS). A longer E-wave deceleration time was observed for HAS group (253 ± 62 versus 208 ± 36 ms in GC; p=0.003).Conclusion: In the analysis of diastolic function in elderly, tissue Doppler imaging was not able to discriminate hypertensive individuals, with the greatest potential for the occurrence of diastolic dysfunction, to the non-hypertensive individuals.The E-wave deceleration time proved to be a valuable parameter in this population.

Fundamento: El Doppler tisular es una técnica que complementa el análisis de la función diastólica del ventrículo izquierdo. Mientras tanto, algunos factores pueden influenciar sus medidas, entre estos la edad, cuya contribución no está adecuadamente aclarada. Objetivo: Comparar el comportamiento de los índices de función diastólica derivados del Doppler tisular en individuos añosos hipertensos y no hipertensos. Métodos: Individuos con edad encima de 60 años fueron divididos en un grupo control (GC), sin comorbilidades cardiovasculares, y un grupo de hipertensos (HAS). Fueron evaluadas las funciones sistólica y diastólica (Doppler convencional y tisular) del ventrículo izquierdo y obtenidos los volúmenes del atrio izquierdo y de la masa ventricular. Resultados: Fueron analizados 56 individuos (edad de 70,1 ± 6,6 años), siendo 23 (41,1%) del GC y 33 (58,9%) del HAS. Los hallazgos ecocardiográficos estructurales fueron semejantes entre los grupos, excepto para hipertrofia ventricular izquierda, más frecuente en el HAS (34,4% versus 4,8%; p = 0,017). El análisis del Doppler tisular no reveló diferencias entre los grupos (e' septal: 8,0 ± 1,5 versus 7,2 ± 1,9 cm/s; p = 0,08 y e' lateral: 9,8 ± 2,2 versus 8,7 ± 2,0 cm/s; p = 0,07, respectivamente para el GC y HAS). En la HAS, se observó tiempo de desaceleración de la onda E (TD) más prolongado (253 ± 62 versus 208 ± 36 ms en el GC; p = 0,003). Conclusión: En el análisis de la función diastólica en añosos, el Doppler tisular no fue capaz de discriminar, de forma precisa, individuos hipertensos, con mayor potencial para la ocurrencia de disfunción diastólica, de individuos no hipertensos. El TD se reveló un parámetro a ser valorizado en esta población. (Arq Bras Cardiol: Imagem cardiovasc. 2014;27(3):184-190)

Os critérios para classificação da insuficiência mitral não foram adequados na cardiomiopatia dilatada / Criteria for mitral regurgitation classification were inadequate for dilated cardiomyopathy

FUNDAMENTO: A insuficiência mitral (IM) é frequente nos pacientes com cardiomiopatia dilatada. Não se sabe se os critérios para classificação da IM são adequados para pacientes com cardiomiopatia dilatada OBJETIVO: Avaliar a concordância entre os quatro métodos ecocardiográficos mais utilizados para classificação da IM. MÉTODOS: Noventa pacientes com cardiomiopatia dilatada foram incluídos. A IM foi classificada por quatro métodos ecocardiográficos: área do jato regurgitante (AJ), vena contracta (VC), área do orifício regurgitante (AOR) e volume regurgitante (VR). A IM foi classificada em leve, moderada ou importante segundo os critérios da American Society of Echocardiography e também foi dividida em tercis conforme os valores absolutos. O teste de Kappa foi utilizado para avaliar a concordância entre os métodos. O coeficiente de Pearson foi utilizado para avaliar a correlação entre os valores absolutos por cada método. RESULTADOS: A classificação da IM, de acordo com cada método, foi a seguinte: AJ: 26 leve, 44 moderada, 20 importante; VC: 12 leve, 72 moderada, 6 importante; AOR: 70 leve, 15 moderada, 5 importante; VR: 70 leve, 16 moderada, 4 importante. A concordância entre os métodos foi ruim (kappa = 0,11; p < 0,001), porém foi observada uma forte correlação entre os valores absolutos de cada método (0,70 a 0,95; p < 0,01). A concordância foi melhor com a divisão dos valores em tercis (kappa = 0,44; p < 0,01). CONCLUSÃO: Os critérios para classificação da IM não são adequados para os pacientes com cardiomiopatia dilatada. É necessário estabelecer novos valores de corte para classificar a IM nestes pacientes.

BACKGROUND: Mitral regurgitation (MR) is common in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). It is unknown whether the criteria for MR classification are inadequate for patients with DCM. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the agreement among the four most common echocardiographic methods for MR classification. METHODS: Ninety patients with DCM were included. Functional MR was classified using four echocardiographic methods: color flow jet area (JA), vena contracta (VC), effective regurgitant orifice area (ERO) and regurgitant volume (RV). MR was classified as mild, moderate or important according to the American Society of Echocardiography criteria and by dividing the values into terciles. The Kappa test was used to evaluate whether the methods agreed, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was used to evaluate the correlation between the absolute values of each method. RESULTS: MR classification according to each method was as follows: JA: 26 mild, 44 moderate, 20 important; VC: 12 mild, 72 moderate, 6 important; ERO: 70 mild, 15 moderate, 5 important; RV: 70 mild, 16 moderate, 4 important. The agreement was poor among methods (kappa=0.11; p<0.001). It was observed a strong correlation between the absolute values of each method, ranging from 0.70 to 0.95 (p<0.01) and the agreement was higher when values were divided into terciles (kappa = 0.44; p < 0.01) CONCLUSION: The use of conventional echocardiographic criteria for MR classification seems inadequate in patients with DCM. It is necessary to establish new cutoff values for MR classification in these patients.

Estudo piloto com Eco 3D das modificações geométricas do VE após infarto do miocárdio / 3D Echo pilot study of geometric Left Ventricular changes after acute myocardial infarction

FUNDAMENTO: Remodelamento ventricular esquerdo (RVE) após IAM caracteriza fator de mau prognóstico. Há pouca informação na literatura sobre o RVE analisado com ecocardiografia tridimensional (ECO 3D) OBJETIVO: Analisar com ECO 3D as modificações geométricas e volumétricas do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) seis meses após IAM em pacientes submetidos a tratamento primário percutâneo. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo com ECO 3D de 21 indivíduos (16 homens, 56 ± 12 anos), acometidos por IAM com elevação do segmento ST. Foi feita a análise morfofuncional (VE) com ECO 3D (volumes, FEVE, índice de esfericidade 3D) até sete dias e seis meses após o IAM. RVE foi considerado para aumento > 15% do volume diastólico final do VE (VDFVE) após seis meses do IAM, comparado ao VDFVE até sete dias do evento. RESULTADOS: Oito (38%) pacientes apresentaram RVE. Medidas ecocardiográficas (n = 21 pacientes): I- até sete dias do IAM: 1- VDFVE: 92,3 ± 22,3 mL; 2- FEVE: 0,51 ± 0,01; 3- índice de esfericidade: 0,38 ± 0,05; II- após seis meses: 1- VDFVE: 107,3 ± 26,8 mL; 2- FEVE: 0,59 ± 0,01; 3- índice de esfericidade: 0,31 ± 0,05. Coeficiente de correlação (r) entre índice de esfericidade até sete dias do IAM e VDFVE aos seis meses (n = 8) após o IAM: r: 0,74, p = 0,0007; (r) entre índice de esfericidade após seis meses do IAM e VDFVE aos seis meses do IAM: r: 0,85, p < 0,0001. CONCLUSÃO: Nesta série, foi observado RVE em 38% dos pacientes seis meses após IAM. O índice de esfericidade tridimensional foi associado à ocorrência de RVE.

BACKGROUND: Left ventricular remodeling (LVR) after AMI characterizes a factor of poor prognosis. There is little information in the literature on the LVR analyzed with three-dimensional echocardiography (3D ECHO). OBJECTIVE: To analyze, with 3D ECHO, the geometric and volumetric modifications of the left ventricle (VE) six months after AMI in patients subjected to percutaneous primary treatment. METHODS: Prospective study with 3D ECHO of 21 subjects (16 men, 56 ± 12 years-old), affected by AMI with ST segment elevation. The morphological and functional analysis (LV) with 3D ECHO (volumes, LVEF, 3D sphericity index) was carried out up to seven days and six months after the AMI. The LVR was considered for increase > 15% of the end diastolic volume of the LV (LVEDV) six months after the AMI, compared to the LVEDV up to seven days from the event. RESULTS: Eight (38%) patients have presented LVR. Echocardiographic measurements (n = 21 patients): I- up to seven days after the AMI: 1- LVEDV: 92.3 ± 22.3 mL; 2- LVEF: 0.51 ± 0.01; 3- sphericity index: 0.38 ± 0.05; II- after six months: 1- LVEDV: 107.3 ± 26.8 mL; 2- LVEF: 0.59 ± 0.01; 3- sphericity index: 0.31 ± 0.05. Correlation coefficient (r) between the sphericity index up to seven days after the AMI and the LVEDV at six months (n = 8) after the AMI: r: 0.74, p = 0.0007; (r) between the sphericity index six months after the AMI and the LVEDV at six months after the AMI: r: 0.85, p < 0.0001. CONCLUSION: In this series, LVR has been observed in 38% of the patients six months after the AMI. The three-dimensional sphericity index has been associated to the occurrence of LVR.

Avaliação prognóstica do tromboembolismo pulmonar por ecocardiograma com Doppler tecidual e peptídeo atrial natriurético tipo B / Assessing prognosis of pulmonary embolism using tissue-Doppler echocardiography and brain natriuretic peptide

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o prognóstico do tromboembolismo pulmonar usando o ecocardiograma com Doppler tecidual e o peptídeo atrial natriurético. MÉTODOS: Pacientes com idade acima de 18 anos foram avaliados pelo ecocardiograma bidimensional e Doppler tecidual para medidas das velocidades miocárdicas (s'), strain e índice de performance miocárdica do ventrículo direito até 24 horas da confirmação diagnóstica do tromboembolismo pulmonar (tomografia/ cintilografia), sendo também o peptídeo atrial natriurético obtido até 24 horas. A influência das variáveis na mortalidade até 1 ano foi testada pela regressão de Cox. RESULTADOS: Dos 118 pacientes estudados, 100 foram incluídos, sendo 60 homens, com idade de 55±17 anos. Pelo ecocardiograma bidimensional, 28% dos pacientes apresentavam disfunção do ventrículo direito. As medidas da onda s', strain e deslocamento estiveram diminuídas para tais pacientes, que apresentavam, ainda, índice de performance miocárdica e pressão sistólica pulmonar aumentados. O peptídeo atrial natriurético médio foi de 66±111pg/mL, sendo 136±146pg/mL para pacientes com disfunção do ventrículo direito. A mortalidade foi 11% e pela análise univariada, relacionada à idade, neoplasia e peptídeo atrial natriurético. Entre as variáveis ecocardiográficas, somente a onda s' do Doppler tecidual e a pressão pulmonar associaram-se à maior mortalidade. Pela análise multivariada, entretanto, a presença de neoplasia foi o único preditor de óbito. CONCLUSÃO: Velocidades miocárdicas diminuídas e peptídeo atrial natriurético elevado estão associados a pior prognóstico em pacientes com tromboembolismo pulmonar, mas, nessa população, somente a presença de neoplasia foi capaz de predizer a mortalidade de maneira independente.

OBJECTIVE: To assess prognosis of pulmonary thromboembolism using tissue Doppler echocardiography and brain natriuretic peptide. METHODS: Patients aged over 18 years were evaluated within 24 hours of confirmed diagnosis (chest tomography/pulmonary scintigraphy) of pulmonary embolism using two-dimensional echocardiography and tissue Doppler for right ventricular systolic (s') velocities, strain, tissue tracking and myocardial performance index. Plasma brain natriuretic peptide was also obtained within 24 hour. The influence of echocardiographic and clinical variables on mortality was examined (up to 12 months) using Cox regression analysis. RESULTS: Out of 118 patients, 100 patients were included in the study (60 males, aged 55±17 years). Right ventricular dysfunction was observed in 28% using two-dimensional echocardiography. Tissue Doppler right ventricular variables (s' velocities, tissue tracking and strain) were decreased only for patients with right ventricular dysfunction, whereas myocardial performance index and systolic pulmonary artery pressure were increased. Mean brain natriuretic peptide value was 66±111pg/mL, also increased in patients with right ventricular dysfunction (136±146pg/mL). Mortality was 11% and related to age, malignancy and brain natriuretic peptide levels. The only echocardiographic variables capable of predicting events by univariate analysis were pulmonary pressure and right ventricular s' velocity. However, multivariate analysis showed only malignancy to predict mortality in this group. CONCLUSION: Lower tissue Doppler systolic velocities and elevated brain natriuretic peptide levels are associated with poorer prognosis in patients with pulmonary thromboembolism; but only malignancy emerged as an independent predictor of mortality.

Calcificação caseosa do anel mitral: relato de caso / Caseous calcification of the mitral annulus: case report

Relatamos um caso raro de provável calcificação caseosa do anel mitral. Essa patologia é mais frequentemente encontrada em mulheres assintomáticas e com idade acima de 70 anos. O reconhecimento dessa imagem é importante, primeiramente devido à ecocardiografia ser a forma mais fácil para elucidação diagnóstica e também por ela ser comumente confundida com outras massas, como tumores, trombos e vegetações, entidades mais comuns. Habitualmente, apresenta evolução benigna e seu correto diagnóstico é fundamental para evitar intervenções cirúrgicas desnecessárias.

We present a rare case of probable caseous calcification of the mitral. This pathology is more frequently detected in asymptomatic women older than 70 years. To recognize this image is important because echocardiography is the easiest way to elucidate this diagnosis, and more importantly because this structure could be easily misdiagnosed as tumors, thrombus and vegetations, which are much more common. Normally, it has a benign evolution, and the correct diagnosis is crucial to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions.

Exercise-induced ventricular arrhythmias: analysis of predictive factors in a population with sleep disorders / Arritmia ventricular esforço-induzida: análise dos fatores preditores em uma população com queixas de sono

Objective: To assess the prevalence of ventricular arrhythmias induced by exercise in a population with sleep disorders and to analyze the triggering factors. Methods: Patients were consecutively selected from the database of the Sleep Clinic of Universidade Federal de São Paulo. All subjects were submitted to basal polysomnography, blood sample collection, physical examination, 12-lead ECG, spirometry, cardiorespiratory exercise study on a treadmill, and echocardiogram. The Control Group was matched for age and gender. Results: A total of 312 patients were analyzed. Exercise-induced ventricular arrhythmia was observed in 7%. The aortic diameter was larger (3.44 ± 0.30, 3.16 ± 0.36, p = 0.04) and the minimal saturation was lower (92.75 ± 3.05, 95.50 ± 1.73, p=0.01) in the ventricular arrhythmia group when compared to controls, respectively. After correction of the aortic root to body surface, there was only a trend to a larger diameter being associated with the emergence of arrhythmia. Conclusions: Exercise-induced ventricular arrhythmia was observed in 7% of sample and it was associated with lower oxygen saturation during exercise.

Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência de arritmias ventriculares esforço-induzidas em uma população com distúrbios do sono e determinar seus fatores desencadeantes. Métodos: Foram selecionados consecutivamente pacientes do banco de dados da Clínica de Sono que foram submetidos à polissonografia basal por queixas de sono. Foi realizada coleta de sangue, seguida de avaliação clínica, eletrocardiograma de 12 derivações, espirometria, teste cardiopulmonar e ecocardiograma. O Grupo Controle foi formado por pacientes que não desenvolveram arritmias durante o esforço, pareados por sexo e idade. Resultados: Foram selecionados 320 e analisados 312 pacientes. Um total de 7% deles desenvolveram arritmia ventricular durante o teste cardiopulmonar. O diâmetro da aorta foi maior (3.44 ± 0.30, 3.16 ± 0.36, p = 0.04) e a saturação mínima observada durante o esforço foi menor (92.75 ± 3.05, 95.50 ± 1.73, p = 0.01) no grupo com arritmia quando comparado ao controle, respectivamente. Após correção do diâmetro de raiz da aorta para a superfície corpórea, houve apenas tendência de associação entre maior diâmetro e aparecimento de arritmia. Conclusões: O aparecimento de arritmia ventricular induzida pelo esforço foi observado em 7% da amostra e associado à menor saturação de oxigênio durante o exercício. Houve tendência de maior diâmetro da raiz de aorta nesse grupo.

Relation between three-dimensional and two-dimensional echocardiography and biochemical analysis in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction percutaneously treated / Relação entre a análise bioquímica e ecocardiográfica tridimensional e bidimensional em pacientes com infarto do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST tratados por via percutânea

Objective: The prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction depends on multiple features that can demonstrate myocardial injury degree (such as serum markers of cardiac necrosis), and also on adaptive mechanisms relative to the acute event. The aim of the study was to assess the relation between biochemical and echocardiographic findings from three-dimensional echocardiographic (3D Echo) analysis and echocardiographic two-dimensional (2D Echo) left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction , submitted to primary percutaneous treatment. Methods: A prospective study with 2D Echo and 3D Echo of 23 patients (17 males, mean age of 57 ± 13 years) with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction, primarily percutaneously treated (stent). Serum cardiac markers (creatine kinase MB, Troponin I and Myoglobin) and serum brain natriuretic peptide were compared to echocardiographic parameters (volumes, left ventricular ejection fraction and ventricular dyssynchrony index). The statistical analysis was performed using Pearson?s correlation coefficient, 95% CI, p < 0.05, linear regression equation and Bland & Altman test. Results: Pearsons correlation coefficient (r)relative to 3D left ventricular ejection fraction: 1- brain natriuretic peptide: r: - 0.7427, p < 0.0001; 2- creatine kinase MB: r: - 0.660, p = 0.001. Left ventricular ejection fraction 2D (r) : 1- brain natriuretic peptide: r: - 0.5478, p = 0.001; 2- creatine kinase MB: r: - 0.4800, p < 0.0277. Other associations were not significant. Conclusions: In this series, it was observed better correlation in regard to serum creatine kinase MB , brain natriuretic peptide and 3D Echo left ventricular ejection fraction, when compared to 2D Echo left ventricular ejection fraction.

Objetivo: O prognóstico dos pacientes portadores de infarto agudo do miocárdico depende de múltiplos aspectos que espelhem o grau de agressão ao miocárdio (como marcadores enzimáticos de necrose miocárdica), assim como dos mecanismos de adaptação ao evento agudo. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a associação entre os achados bioquímicos e ecocardiográficos derivados da análise ecocardiográfica transtorácica tridimensional (ECO 3D) com a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (ECO 2D) em pacientes acometidos por infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST, que tenham sido submetidos a tratamento primário percutâneo. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo com Eco 3D e 2D de 23 indivíduos (17 homens, 57 ± 13 anos), acometidos por infarto agudo do miocárdio com elevação do segmento ST, primariamente tratados com implante de stent coronariano. Foi feita a dosagem sérica de creatina cinase fração MB, Troponina I, Mioglobina e peptídeo atrial natriurético e comparada com os parâmetros ecocardiográficos (volumes, fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo e índice de dissincronia ventricular). A análise estatística foi feita com a determinação do coeficiente de correlação (Pearson), IC = 95%, p < 0,05, com teste de regressão linear e teste de Bland & Altman. Resultados: Coeficiente de correlação (r) entre fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo 3D: 1- peptídeo atrial natriurético: r: - 0,7427, p < 0,0001; 2- creatina cinase fração MB: r: -0,660, p = 0,001. fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo 2D (r) : 1- peptídeo atrial natriurético: r: - 0,5478, p = 0,001; 2- creatina cinase fração MB: r: -0,4800, p < 0,0277. As demais associações entre os parâmetros ecocardiográficos e as dosagens séricas não foram significativas. Conclusões: Nesta série, foi observada correlação melhor entre a dosagem sérica de peptídeo atrial natriurético, de creatina cinase fração MB e a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo aferida por Eco 3D do que a correlação com a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo aferida por Eco 2D.

Sincronia eletromecânica ecocardiográfica tridimensional: comparação com a fração de ejeção tridimensional e bidimensional para a análise da performance sistólica ventricular esquerda / Three-dimensional echocardiographic analysis of electromechanical synchrony: comparison with three threedimensional and two-dimensional ejection fraction for evaluation of left ventricular systolic performance

Objetivo: Comparar a análise da sincronia do ventrículo esquerdo (VE)aferida com a ecocardiografia (ECO) tridimensional com as medidasde fração de ejeção do VE (FEVE) obtidas com ECO bidimensional(2D) e tridimensional (3D). Métodos: Estudo prospectivo de 71indivíduos (41 homens, 49 ± 11 anos), 40 apresentando anatomiacardíaca (ECO) e eletrocardiografia (ECG) normais (Grupo N), 31pacientes portadores de cardiomiopatia dilatada (Grupo CMD). Forammedidos com a ECO 3D: FEVE, volumes e o índice de dissincronia(ID) % para 16 segmentos do VE; com o ECO 2D foram aferidos: FEVE (método de Simpson) e volumes. As informações foram analisadascom a aferição do coeficiente de correlação (Pearson), intervalo deconfiança (IC) de 95%, teste de regressão linear, teste de Bland-Altman, p < 0,05. Resultados: O ID% variou de 0,32 a 21,7% (5,94± 6,46), a FEVE 3D variou de 0,16 a 0,73 (0,51 ± 0,15); a FEVE 2Dvariou de 0,2 a 0,7 (0,47 ± 0,17). A correlação entre ID% e FEVE3D foi (r): -0,8203, p < 0,0001, IC = -0,8844 a -0,7259; a relaçãolinear entre ID% (x) e FEVE 3D (y) foi y = 63,4515 + (-2,0233)x, p < 0,0001. A correlação entre ID% e FEVE 2D foi (r): -0,7046,p < 0,0001, IC = -0,7675 a -0,5824. Conclusões: Neste estudo foiobservada boa correlação negativa entre a sincronia VE (ECO 3D) e aFEVE medida ao ecocardiograma (3D e 2D).