High-resolution, real-time, and nonfluoroscopic 3-dimensional cardiac imaging and catheter navigation in humans using a novel dielectric-based system.

BACKGROUND: Catheter navigation and 3-dimensional (3D) cardiac mapping are essential components of minimally invasive electrophysiological procedures. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to develop a novel 3D mapping system (KODEX - EPD, EPD Solutions, Best, The Netherlands) that measures changing electric field gradients induced on intracardiac electrodes to enable catheter localization and real-time 3D cardiac mapping. METHODS: We first validated the accuracy of the system's measurement and localization capabilities by comparing known and KODEX - EPD-measured distances and locations at 12 anatomical landmarks in both the atria and ventricles of 4 swine. Next, in vivo images of 3D porcine cardiac anatomy generated by KODEX - EPD and widely used CARTO 3 system (Biosense Webster, Inc., Diamond Bar, CA) were compared with gold standard computed tomography images acquired from the same animals. Finally, 3D maps of atrial anatomy were created for 22 patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (Dielectric Unravelling of Radiofrequency ABLation Effectiveness trial). RESULTS: First, the mean error between known and measured distances was 1.08 ± 0.11 mm (P < .01) and the overall standard deviation between known and measured locations in 12 areas of the porcine heart was 0.35 mm (P < .01). Second, an expert comparison of 3D image quality revealed that KODEX - EPD is noninferior to CARTO 3. Third, the system enabled 3D imaging of atrial anatomy in humans, provided real-time images of atrioventricular valves, and detected important anatomical variations in a subset of patients. CONCLUSION: The KODEX - EPD system is a novel 3D mapping system that accurately detects catheter location and can generate high-resolution images without the need for preacquired imaging, specialty catheters, or a point-by-point mapping procedure.

Fully objective hearing threshold estimation in cochlear implant users using phase-locking value growth functions.

Cochlear implant users require fitting of electrical threshold and comfort levels for optimal access to sound. In this study, we used single-channel cortical auditory evoked responses (CAEPs) obtained from 20 participants using a Nucleus device. A fully objective method to estimate threshold levels was developed, using growth function fitting and the peak phase-locking value feature. Results demonstrated that growth function fitting is a viable method for estimating threshold levels in cochlear implant users, with a strong correlation (r = 0.979, p < 0.001) with behavioral thresholds. Additionally, we compared the threshold estimates using CAEPs acquired from a standard montage (Cz to mastoid) against using a montage of recording channels near the cochlear implant, simulating recording from the device itself. The correlation between estimated and behavioural thresholds remained strong (r = 0.966, p < 0.001), however the recording time needed to be increased to produce a similar estimate accuracy. Finally, a method for estimating comfort levels was investigated, and showed that the comfort level estimates were mildly correlated with behavioral comfort levels (r = 0.50, p = 0.024).

Development and validation of a method to record electrophysiological responses in direct acoustic cochlear implant subjects.

Acoustic hearing implants, such as direct acoustic cochlear implants (DACIs), can be used to treat profound mixed hearing loss. Electrophysiological responses in DACI subjects are of interest to confirm auditory processing intra-operatively, and to assist DACI fitting postoperatively. We present two related studies, focusing on DACI artifacts and electrophysiological measurements in DACI subjects, respectively. In the first study we aimed to characterize DACI artifacts, to study the feasibility of measuring frequency-specific electrophysiological responses in DACI subjects. Measurements of DACI artifacts were collected in a cadaveric head to disentangle possible DACI artifact sources and compared to a constructed DACI artifact template. It is shown that for moderate stimulation levels, DACI artifacts are mainly dominated by the artifact from the radio frequency (RF) communication signal, that can be modeled if the RF encoding protocol is known. In a second study, the feasibility of measuring intra-operative responses, without applying the RF artifact models, in DACI subjects is investigated. Auditory steady-state and brainstem responses were measured intra-operatively in three DACI subjects, immediately after implantation, to confirm proper DACI functioning and coupling to the inner ear. Intra-operative responses could be measured in two of the three tested subjects. Absence of intra-operative responses in the third subject can possibly be explained by the hearing loss, attenuation of intra-operative responses, the difference between electrophysiological and behavioral threshold, and a temporary threshold shift due to the DACI surgery. In conclusion, RF artifacts can be modeled, such that electrophysiological responses to frequency-specific stimuli could possibly be measured in DACI subjects, and intra-operative responses in DACI subjects can be obtained.

On the Cost of Introducing Speech-Like Properties to a Stimulus for Auditory Steady-State Response Measurements.

Validating hearing-aid fittings in prelingual infants is challenging because typical measures (aided audiometry, etc.) are impossible with infants. One objective alternative uses an aided auditory steady-state response (ASSR) measurement. To make an appropriate measurement, the hearing aid's signal-processing features must be activated (or deactivated) as if the ASSR stimulus was real speech. Rather than manipulating the hearing-aid settings to achieve this, an ASSR stimulus with speech-like properties was developed. This promotes clinical simplicity and face validity of the validation. The stimulus consists of narrow-band CE-Chirps®, modified to mimic the International Speech Test Signal (ISTS). This study examines the cost of introducing the speech-like features into the ASSR stimulus. Thus, 90 to 100 Hz ASSRs were recorded to the ISTS-modified stimulus as well as an equivalent stimulus without the ISTS modification, presented through insert phones to 10 young normal-hearing subjects. Noise-corrected ASSR magnitudes and clinically relevant detection times were estimated and analyzed with mixed-model analyses of variance. As a supplement, the observed changes to the ASSR magnitudes were compared with an objective characterization of the stimuli based on modulation power. The main findings were a reduction in ASSR magnitude of 4 dB and an increase in detection time by a factor of 1.5 for the ISTS-modified stimulus compared with the standard. Detection rates were unaffected given sufficient recording time. For clinical use of the hearing-aid validation procedure, the key metric is the detection time. While this varied considerably across subjects, the observed 50% mean increase corresponds to less than 1 min of additional recording time.

The Value of Electrically Evoked Stapedius Reflex in Determining the Maximum Comfort Level of a Cochlear Implant.

BACKGROUND: One of the most important steps for good user performance with a cochlear implant (CI) is activation and programming, aimed at determining the dynamic range. In adults, current levels are determined by psychophysical measures. In babies, small children, or individuals with multiple disorders, this procedure requires techniques that may provide inconsistent responses because of auditory inexperience or the age of the child, making it a very difficult process that demands the collaboration of both the patient and the family. PURPOSE: To study the relationship between the electrically evoked stapedius reflex threshold (ESRT) and maximum comfort level for stimulating electrodes (C-level) in postoperative CI users. RESEARCH DESIGN: Cross-sectional analytical observational case series study. STUDY SAMPLE: We assessed 24 patients of both sexes, aged between 18 and 68 yr, submitted to CI surgery. INTERVENTION: Otoscopy and immittance. Next, an implant speech processor connected to an Itautec® computer containing the manufacturer's software (custom sound Ep 3-2) was used, as well as an AT 235h probe inserted into the ear contralateral to the CI to capture the stapedius reflex, obtaining electrically evoked stapedius reflex thresholds. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Data from the last programming, defining C-levels for each electrode studied, were extracted from the databank of each patient. The manual decay function of the AT 235h middle ear analyzer was used to observe ESRT response in a same window for a longer response capture time. Electrodes 22, 16, 11, 6, and 1 were tested when active, with the aim of using electrodes over the entire length of the CI, and ESRT was considered present when compliance was ≥0.05 ml. Stimuli, in current units, were always initiated at 20 cu above the C-level. The analysis of variance parametric test, Tukey's honest significant difference test, the t-test, Wilcoxon nonparametric test, and the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test examined whether significant relationships existed between these other factors. RESULTS: The results demonstrate that all the electrodes selected for the study exhibited higher mean reflex threshold values than their mean C-level counterparts. However, there was no significant difference between them, for electrodes 1, 6, 11, and 16. The data provided allow the use of ESRT to define C-level values and make it possible to stipulate a correction factor ranging between 6 and 25.6 electrical units. CONCLUSION: The use of electrically evoked stapedius reflex thresholds can help the team in charge of programming CIs, making the process faster and safer, mainly for infants, small children, or individuals with multiple disorders.

Effectiveness of mirror therapy, motor imagery, and virtual feedback on phantom limb pain following amputation: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Phantom limb pain is reported in 50%-85% of people with amputation. Clinical interventions in treating central pain, such as mirror therapy, motor imagery, or virtual visual feedback, could redound in benefits to amputee patients with phantom limb pain. OBJECTIVES: To provide an overview of the effectiveness of different techniques for treating phantom limb pain in amputee patients. STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review. METHODS: A computerized literature search up to April 2017 was performed using the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE, ProQuest, PEDro, EBSCOhost, and Cochrane Plus. Methodological quality and internal validity score of each study were assessed using PEDro scale. For data synthesis, qualitative methods from the Cochrane Back Review Group were applied. RESULTS: In all, 12 studies met our inclusion criteria, where 9 were rated as low methodological quality and 3 rated moderate quality. All studies showed a significant reduction in pain, but there was heterogeneity among subjects and methodologies and any high-quality clinical trial (PEDro score ≤8; internal validity score ≤5) was not found. CONCLUSION: Mirror therapy, motor imaginary, and virtual visual feedback reduce phantom limb pain; however, there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. Future studies should include designs with more solid research methods, exploring short- and long-term benefits of these therapies. Clinical relevance This systematic review investigates the effectiveness of mirror therapy, motor imagery, and virtual visual feedback on phantom limb pain, summarizing the currently published trials and evaluating the research quality. Although these interventions have positive benefits in phantom limb pain, there is still a lack of evidence for supporting their effectiveness.

An overview of cochlear implant electrode array designs.

Cochlear implant electrode arrays are designed with specific characteristics that allow for the preservation of intra-cochlear structures during the insertion process, as well as during explantation. Straight lateral wall (LW) electrode arrays and pre-curved modiolar hugging (MH) electrode arrays are the two types that are commercially available. Although there is a third type of electrode array called the mid-scala (MS), which is positioned in the middle of the scala tympani (ST), and is usually considered as an MH type of electrode. Different lengths of straight LW electrode arrays are currently available which allow for insertion across a range of different sized cochleae; however, due to manufacturing limitations, pre-curved MH electrodes are generally only available to cover the basal turn of the cochlea, while the spiral ganglion cells are distributed in the Rosenthal's canal that extends into 1.75 turns of the cochlea. Both straight LW and pre-curved MH electrodes can cause a certain degree of intra-cochlear trauma, but pre-curved MH electrodes tend to deviate into the scala vestibuli from the scala tympani more often than the straight LW electrodes, resulting in damage to the osseous spiral lamina/spiral ligament which could initiate new bone formation and eventually affect the cochlear implant users' hearing performance. Structural damage to the cochlea could also affect the vestibular function. With pre-curved MH electrodes, higher degrees of trauma are related to the fixed curling geometry of the electrode in relation to the variable coiling pattern of individual cochleae, the orientation of the electrode contacts in relation to the modiolus wall, and how effectively the stylet was handled by the surgeon during the procedure. Wire management, metal density, and the shore hardness of the silicone elastomer all contribute to the stiffness/flexibility of the electrode. It is important to acknowledge the impact of bringing the stimulating contacts closer to the modiolus wall with an MH electrode type in terms of the resultant damage to intra-cochlear structures. The presence of malformed cochleae should be identified and appropriate electrodes should be chosen for each specific cochlea, irrespective of the cochlear implant brand. In order to utilize drug therapy, the cochlea should be free from any trauma.

Dimensional changes from the sintering process and fit of Y-TZP copings: Micro-CT analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the dimensional changes from the sintering process of Y-TZP and relate them to the fit of zirconia copings. METHODS: The sintering shrinkage rate (SSR) was obtained from the measurement of geometric specimens (4×4×2mm). Thirty-six zirconia copings made using CAD/CAM were equally divided into three groups (n=12): ZMAX - IPS e.max ZirCAD (Ivoclar Vivadent, Liechtenstein); ZYZ - InCeram YZ (Vita Zahnfabrik, Germany); and ZK - Zirklein (Zirklein, Brazil). The copings were scanned in micro-CT before and after sintering so that SSR was obtained. The SSR of geometrical specimens and copings was compared to each other and those the manufacturers reported (ANOVA-2 and Tukey, p≤.05). The copings were settled on an abutment and taken to the micro-CT to evaluate their marginal and internal fit. The data enabled the statistical comparison (ANOVA-2 and Tukey, p≤.05) between groups and measurement sites and between the fit obtained with that stipulated by the CAD/CAM software (80µm) (Dunnett test, p≤.05). RESULTS: All groups showed statistical differences between the SSR the manufacturer reported and those obtained experimentally and between the SSR of the geometric specimens and copings. In general, the SSR of the copings showed no uniformity. There was no statistical difference among the groups for marginal fit, with differences only for internal fit and between the different regions measured. The fit obtained experimentally differed from the internal space determined in the CAD/CAM software. SIGNIFICANCE: The lack of uniformity of sintering shrinkage might lead to a non-uniform internal fit of Y-TZP copings.

Computer-assisted CI fitting: Is the learning capacity of the intelligent agent FOX beneficial for speech understanding?

OBJECTIVE: The software application FOX ('Fitting to Outcome eXpert') is an intelligent agent to assist in the programing of cochlear implant (CI) processors. The current version utilizes a mixture of deterministic and probabilistic logic which is able to improve over time through a learning effect. This study aimed at assessing whether this learning capacity yields measurable improvements in speech understanding. METHODS: A retrospective study was performed on 25 consecutive CI recipients with a median CI use experience of 10 years who came for their annual CI follow-up fitting session. All subjects were assessed by means of speech audiometry with open set monosyllables at 40, 55, 70, and 85 dB SPL in quiet with their home MAP. Other psychoacoustic tests were executed depending on the audiologist's clinical judgment. The home MAP and the corresponding test results were entered into FOX. If FOX suggested to make MAP changes, they were implemented and another speech audiometry was performed with the new MAP. RESULTS: FOX suggested MAP changes in 21 subjects (84%). The within-subject comparison showed a significant median improvement of 10, 3, 1, and 7% at 40, 55, 70, and 85 dB SPL, respectively. All but two subjects showed an instantaneous improvement in their mean speech audiometric score. DISCUSSION: Persons with long-term CI use, who received a FOX-assisted CI fitting at least 6 months ago, display improved speech understanding after MAP modifications, as recommended by the current version of FOX. This can be explained only by intrinsic improvements in FOX's algorithms, as they have resulted from learning. This learning is an inherent feature of artificial intelligence and it may yield measurable benefit in speech understanding even in long-term CI recipients.

Fitting prelingually deafened adult cochlear implant users based on electrode discrimination performance.

OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the hypotheses that (1) prelingually deafened CI users do not have perfect electrode discrimination ability and (2) the deactivation of non-discriminable electrodes can improve auditory performance. DESIGN: Electrode discrimination difference limens were determined for all electrodes of the array. The subjects' basic map was subsequently compared to an experimental map, which contained only discriminable electrodes, with respect to speech understanding in quiet and in noise, listening effort, spectral ripple discrimination and subjective appreciation. STUDY SAMPLE: Subjects were six prelingually deafened, late implanted adults using the Nucleus cochlear implant. RESULTS: Electrode discrimination difference limens across all subjects and electrodes ranged from 0.5 to 7.125, with significantly larger limens for basal electrodes. No significant differences were found between the basic map and the experimental map on auditory tests. Subjective appreciation was found to be significantly poorer for the experimental map. CONCLUSIONS: Prelingually deafened CI users were unable to discriminate between all adjacent electrodes. There was no difference in auditory performance between the basic and experimental map. Potential factors contributing to the absence of improvement with the experimental map include the reduced number of maxima, incomplete adaptation to the new frequency allocation, and the mainly basal location of deactivated electrodes.

Differences in the onset mode of ventricular tachyarrhythmia between patients with J wave in anterior leads and those with J wave in inferolateral leads.

BACKGROUND: The pathophysiological mechanism of J wave in anterior leads (A-leads) and inferolateral leads (L-leads) remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: We investigated the onset mode and circadian distribution of ventricular tachyarrhythmia (VTA) episodes between patients with early repolarization syndrome (ERS) and Brugada syndrome (BrS). METHODS: The study enrolled 35 patients with ERS and 52 patients with type 1 BrS with spontaneous ventricular fibrillation who were divided into 4 groups: ERS(A+L) (n = 15), patients with ERS who had a non-type 1 Brugada pattern electrocardiogram in any A-leads (second to fourth intercostal spaces) in control and/or after drug provocation tests; ERS(L) (n = 20), patients with ERS with J wave only in L-leads; BrS(A) (n = 24), patients with BrS without J wave in L-leads; and BrS(A+L) (n = 28), patients with BrS with J wave in L-leads. The onset mode of 206 VTAs obtained from electrocardiograms or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and the circadian distribution of 352 VTAs were investigated in the 4 groups. RESULTS: Three groups with J wave in A-leads, ERS(A+L), BrS(A), and BrS(A+L), had higher incidences of nocturnal (63%, 43%, and 47%, respectively) and sudden onset VTAs (67%, 97%, and 86%, respectively) with longer coupling intervals of premature ventricular contractions (388.8, 397.3, and 385.6 ms, respectively) than the ERS(L) group with J wave only in L-leads (25%, P = .0019; 19%, P < .0001; and 330.6 ms, P = .0004, respectively), the last of which mainly displayed VTAs with a short-long-short sequence. CONCLUSION: The onset mode of VTAs was different between patients with J wave in A-leads and patients with J wave in only L-leads. The underlying mechanism of J wave may differ between A-leads and L-leads.

Speech perception and quality of life of open-fit hearing aid users.

OBJECTIVE: To relate the performance of individuals with hearing loss at high frequencies in speech perception with the quality of life before and after the fitting of an open-fit hearing aid (HA). METHODS: The WHOQOL-BREF had been used before the fitting and 90 days after the use of HA. The Hearing in Noise Test (HINT) had been conducted in two phases: (1) at the time of fitting without an HA (situation A) and with an HA (situation B); (2) with an HA 90 days after fitting (situation C). STUDY SAMPLE: Thirty subjects with sensorineural hearing loss at high frequencies. RESULTS: By using an analysis of variance and the Tukey's test comparing the three HINT situations in quiet and noisy environments, an improvement has been observed after the HA fitting. The results of the WHOQOL-BREF have showed an improvement in the quality of life after the HA fitting (paired t-test). The relationship between speech perception and quality of life before the HA fitting indicated a significant relationship between speech recognition in noisy environments and in the domain of social relations after the HA fitting (Pearson's correlation coefficient). CONCLUSIONS: The auditory stimulation has improved speech perception and the quality of life of individuals.

Speech perception and quality of life of open-fit hearing aid users

ABSTRACT Objective To relate the performance of individuals with hearing loss at high frequencies in speech perception with the quality of life before and after the fitting of an open-fit hearing aid (HA). Methods The WHOQOL-BREF had been used before the fitting and 90 days after the use of HA. The Hearing in Noise Test (HINT) had been conducted in two phases: (1) at the time of fitting without an HA (situation A) and with an HA (situation B); (2) with an HA 90 days after fitting (situation C). Study Sample Thirty subjects with sensorineural hearing loss at high frequencies. Results By using an analysis of variance and the Tukey’s test comparing the three HINT situations in quiet and noisy environments, an improvement has been observed after the HA fitting. The results of the WHOQOL-BREF have showed an improvement in the quality of life after the HA fitting (paired t-test). The relationship between speech perception and quality of life before the HA fitting indicated a significant relationship between speech recognition in noisy environments and in the domain of social relations after the HA fitting (Pearson’s correlation coefficient). Conclusions The auditory stimulation has improved speech perception and the quality of life of individuals.

INFLUENCE OF PERMANENT PACING OF THE ATRIA FROM UPPER ANTERIOR AREA OF INTERCARDIAC SEPTA (AREA OF BAKHMAN'S FASCICLES) ON THE PART OF AMOTIVATIONAL VENTRICLE STIMULATION.

This research includes 74 patients with syndrome of the sinus node asthenia. The application of permanent bilocular pacing was indicated for these patients. An atrial electrode was located in the right atrial auricle in 37 patients and it was in the area of Bakhman's fascicles in other 37 patients. All the patients had a stimulated atrio-ventricular delay on 250 ms, but sensing delay was shorter on 20 ms. Given data were analyzed after operation in the periods of 6 and 12 months. Cumulative percent of ventricular stimulation was significantly less in the group with electrode in the area of Bakhman's fascicles (6%) as compared with the group where electrode installed in the right atrial auricle (41%) after 6 months. There were 4% in comparison with 43% after 12 months. The localization of atrial electrode in the area of Bakhman's fascicles led to reduction of cumulative percent of ventricular stimulation on 35% after 6 months and on 39% after 12 months. Permanent pacing in the area of Bakhman's fascicles could be an effective mode to decrease the part of amotivational stimulation of the right ventricle.

Hyperbaric oxygen for patients with above-knee amputations, persistent ischemia, and nonreconstructable vascular disease.

We describe four patients with above-knee amputations whose stump wounds failed to heal. After numerous revascularization attempts, these patients were diagnosed with nonreconstructable pelvic and groin vascular disease and were facing hip disarticulation. With the addition of hyperbaric oxygen treatment to vigilant wound care and negative pressure therapy, these patients healed their amputation stumps and were fit with prostheses. At their most recent follow-up, all patients were ambulating and using their prostheses.

Open fitting: performance verification of receiver in the ear and receiver in the aid / Adaptação aberta: verificação do desempenho RITE e RITA

OBJECTIVE: To verify the receiver in the ear and receiver in the aid adaptations by measuring in situ the speech perception and users' level of satisfaction. METHODS: The study was approved by the research ethics committee (Process: 027/2011). Twenty subjects older than 18 years with audiological diagnosis of mild and moderate bilateral descending sensorineural hearing loss were evaluated. The subjects were divided into two groups, where G1 (group 1) was fitted with open-fit hearing aids with the built-in receiver unit (receiver in the ear) and G2 (group 2) was fitted with open-fit hearing aids with RITE. A probe microphone measurement was performed to check the gain and output provided by the amplification and for assessment of speech perception with Hearing in Noise Test with and without hearing aids. After a period of six weeks of use without interruption, the subjects returned for follow-up and answered the Satisfaction with Amplification in Daily Life questionnaire, and were again subjected to Hearing in Noise Test. RESULTS: Both groups presented better test results for speech recognition in the presence of noise. CONCLUSION: Groups 1 and 2 were satisfied with the use of hearing aids and improved speech recognition in silent and noisy situations with hearing aids. .

OBJETIVO: Estudo clínico prospectivo para verificar as adaptações RITE e RITA por meio da mensuração in situ da percepção da fala e satisfação dos usuários. MÉTODO: Estudo aprovado pelo CEP (Processo no 027/2011). Foram avaliados 20 indivíduos maiores de 18 anos com diagnóstico audiológico de perda auditiva sensorioneural descendente bilateral de graus leve e moderado. Os indivíduos foram divididos em dois grupos, onde o G1 (grupo 1) foi adaptado com AASI open-fit com receptor no próprio aparelho (RITA) e o G2 (grupo 2) foi adaptado com AASI open-fit com receptor no canal (RITE). Foi realizada a medida com microfone-sonda para verificação do ganho e saída do AASI e avaliação da percepção da fala com Hearing in Noise Test (HINT), sem e com AASI. Após um período de seis semanas de uso sem interrupções, o individuo retornou para acompanhamento e respondeu ao questionário SADL (Satisfaction with Amplification in Daily Life Scale) e realizou o HINT. RESULTADOS: Os grupos apresentaram melhores resultados no teste de reconhecimento da fala com presença de ruído. CONCLUSÃO: Os grupos 1 e 2 apresentaram satisfação com o uso do AASI e melhora no reconhecimento de fala nas situações de silêncio e ruído com o uso de AASI. .

[Bone defect adjusted strategy in revision arthroplasty of the hip : Wich implant in wich situation? Innovations and approved methods]. / Defektadaptierte Rekonstruktionsstrategien in der Hüftrevisionsendoprothetik : Welches Implantat in welcher Situation? Innovationen und Bewährtes.

BACKGROUND: Revision total hip arthroplasty is of rising importance, with 35,000 procedures a year in Germany. OBJECTIVES: Primary stability of the revision implant, reconstruction of the anatomical hip center, reconstruction of bone stock, and permanent secondary integration are the main priorities. METHODS: Current literature and examples from our own experience are presented. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Novel developments from basic research and industrial partners extend the possibilities for treating affected patients. For an integrated therapy concept in implant selection criteria, such as situation and structure of the defect, combination with any remaining implants, causes of loosening and failure, implant allergy, and patient-specific parameters should be taken into consideration.

Multipoint pacing by a left ventricular quadripolar lead improves the acute hemodynamic response to CRT compared with conventional biventricular pacing at any site.

BACKGROUND: Response to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) remains challenging. Pacing from multiple sites of the left ventricle (LV) has shown promising results. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to systematically compare the acute hemodynamic effects of multipoint pacing (MPP) by means of a quadripolar lead with conventional biventricular (BiV) pacing. METHODS: Twenty-nine patients (23 men; mean age 72 ± 12 years; LV ejection fraction 29% ± 7%; 15 with ischemic cardiomyopathy, 17 with left bundle branch block; mean QRS 183 ± 23 ms) underwent CRT implantation. Per patient, 3.2 ± 1.2 different veins and 6.3 ± 2.4 pacing sites were tested. LV electrical delay (Q-LV) was measured at each location, along with the increase in LV dP/dtmax (maximum rate of rise of LV pressure) obtained by BiV and MPP. The effect of MPP, by means of simultaneous pacing from distal and proximal dipoles, was investigated at all available sites. RESULTS: Overall, 3.2 ± 1.2 different MPP measurements were collected per patient. When all sites were considered, LV dP/dtmax increased from 951 ± 193 mm Hg/s at baseline to 1144 ± 255 and 1178 ± 259 mm Hg/s on BiV and MPP, respectively. When the best site was considered, LV dP/dtmax increased from a baseline value of 942 ± 202 mm Hg/s to 1200 ± 267 mm Hg/s (BiV) and 1231 ± 267 mm Hg/s (MPP). The mean QRS duration at any site during MPP and conventional CRT was 171 ± 18 and 175 ± 16 ms (P = .003), respectively. CONCLUSION: Compared with BiV pacing at any LV site, MPP yielded a small but consistent increase in hemodynamic response. A correlation between the increase in hemodynamics and Q-LV on MPP was observed for all measurements, including those taken at the best and worst sites. The MPP-induced improvement in contractility was associated with significantly greater narrowing of the QRS complex than conventional BiV pacing.

Open fitting: performance verification of receiver in the ear and receiver in the aid.

OBJECTIVE: To verify the receiver in the ear and receiver in the aid adaptations by measuring in situ the speech perception and users' level of satisfaction. METHODS: The study was approved by the research ethics committee (Process: 027/2011). Twenty subjects older than 18 years with audiological diagnosis of mild and moderate bilateral descending sensorineural hearing loss were evaluated. The subjects were divided into two groups, where G1 (group 1) was fitted with open-fit hearing aids with the built-in receiver unit (receiver in the ear) and G2 (group 2) was fitted with open-fit hearing aids with RITE. A probe microphone measurement was performed to check the gain and output provided by the amplification and for assessment of speech perception with Hearing in Noise Test with and without hearing aids. After a period of six weeks of use without interruption, the subjects returned for follow-up and answered the Satisfaction with Amplification in Daily Life questionnaire, and were again subjected to Hearing in Noise Test. RESULTS: Both groups presented better test results for speech recognition in the presence of noise. CONCLUSION: Groups 1 and 2 were satisfied with the use of hearing aids and improved speech recognition in silent and noisy situations with hearing aids.