Multiparametric assessment of right ventricular function in heart transplant recipients by echocardiography and relations with pulmonary hemodynamics.

OBJECTIVE: Right ventricular (RV) dilatation and dysfunction are usually present in heart transplant (HTx) patients and worsened with residual pulmonary hypertension (PH). We aimed to determine the ability of different echocardiographic modalities to evaluate RV function in comparison with cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) and their relations with pulmonary hemodynamics in HTx patients. METHODS: A total of 62 data sets [echocardiographic, hemodynamic, and CMR] were acquired from 35 HTx patients. Comprehensive echocardiography, including two-dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography, speckle tracking echocardiography, and three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography, was performed. Mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) was obtained invasively from right heart catheterization. The correlations between all echocardiographic parameters and CMR imaging data and the differences between patients with and without residual PH were evaluated. RESULTS: Diastolic and systolic RV volumes and RV ejection fraction (RVEF) by 3D echocardiography correlated strongly with CMR-derived volumes and RVEF (r = .91, r = .79, r = .64; p < .0001 for each, respectively). Among other parameters, RV fractional area change (r = .439; p < .001) and RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVFW-LS) (r = -.34; p < .05) correlated moderately with CMR-RVEF, whereas tricuspid annulus S' velocity (r = .29; p < .05) and tricuspid annular systolic plane excursion (r = .27; p < .05) correlated weakly with CMR-RVEF. Additionally, 3D-RVEF and RVFW-LS were significantly decreased in studies with mPAP ≥ 20 mm Hg in comparison to those with mPAP < 20 mm Hg (47.7 ± 3.7 vs. 50.9 ± 5.3, p = .04 and -15.5 ± 3.1 vs. -17.5 ± 3, p = .03, respectively). CONCLUSION: The best method for the evaluation of RV function in HTx recipients is 3D echocardiography. Besides, the subclinical impact of residual PH on RV function can be best determined by RVFW-LS and 3D-RVEF in these patients.

Direct aortic transcatheter aortic valve implantation.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a safe and effective alternative to surgical valve replacement in intermediate and even in low-risk patient cohorts. Direct aortic (DAo) route may be used in patients with severe peripheral vascular disease. Here, we present an 88-year old patient hospitalized with cardiogenic shock. Echocardiography revealed severe aortic valve stenosis with aortic valve area 0.5 cm², mean gradient of 55 mmHg, and peak gradient 92 mmHg. TAVI was considered by the Institutional Heart Team. Multislice computed tomography (MSCT) revealed severe peripheral vascular disease, decreased calibration of abdominal aorta, and multiple large vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. The patient was scheduled for a DAo TAVI. A 26-mm Medtronic CoreValve Evolut R valve was implanted after predilatation with median sternotomy. The patient was discharged after 96 hours. Although transfemoral (TF) access is used as the default approach for TAVI, it was contraindicated in our patient owing to severe peripheral vascular disease and decreased calibration of the abdominal aorta at its narrowest point (4.5 mm) with multiple large vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. Careful preprocedural MSCT evaluation is essential and directly affects the success of the procedure. MSCT is also mandatory to confirm the best cannulation zone that must be met for a successful DAo TAVI.

Longitudinal Strain and Strain Rate for Estimating Left Ventricular Filling Pressure in Heart Transplant Recipients.

Traditional parameters have limited value to estimate left ventricular filling pressure (LVFP) in orthotropic heart transplant (OHT) recipients. We hypothesized that global longitudinal strain (GLS), diastolic, and systolic strain rate (SR) would be depressed in OHT recipients with elevated LVFP and could overcome the limitations of traditional parameters. We studied consecutively OHT patients at the time of endomyocardial biopsies and retrospectively pretransplantation studies conforming to the same protocol. Comprehensive echocardiography with strain measurements was performed. Results were compared with pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) obtained from right heart catheterization that was performed just after the echocardiography study. In all, 74 studies were performed in 50 OHT recipients. Mean PWCP was 11.8 ± 4.3 mm Hg (range: 4 to 25 mm Hg). Several parameters, but not left atrial volume index, mitral inflow velocities, annular velocities, and their ratio (E/e'), were different between studies with normal (n = 47) and elevated PCWP (n = 27). Area Under Curve for GLS (0.932*), E/e'SR (0.849*), and systolic SR (0.848*) (*p <0.0001) were more accurate than traditional parameters for predicting PCWP>12 mm Hg. GLS, systolic SR and E/e'SR remained accurate regardless of LV ejection fraction and allograft vasculopathy. Meanwhile, E/e' was accurate to predict PWCP in native failing hearts before transplantation. Changes in GLS and E/e'SR tracked accurately changes in PCWP. In conclusion, traditional indices of diastolic function perform poorly in OHT recipients, whereas GLS and E/e'SR provide reliable means of LVFP, irrespective of ejection fraction and allograft vasculopathy. These parameters also track reasonably well the changes in LVFP.

Evaluation of hs-CRP and sLOX-1 Levels in Moderate-to-High Risk Acute Coronary Syndromes.

OBJECTIVE: Risk stratification and prompt treatment are essential for the management of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and prediction of future prognosis. Subclinical vascular inflammation and novel biomarkers play an important role in the clinical evaluation of ACS patients. METHODS: We enrolled patients who were admitted to emergency service with unstable angina or non- ST segment elevated ACS (NSTE-ACS) in the study population. Coronary artery disease (CAD) complexity was determined via evaluation of angiographical views and peripheral venous blood samples were collected to measure highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and soluble form of Lectin-like OxLDL receptor-1 (sLOX-1) levels. RESULTS: A total of 40 patients were enrolled in the study population, mean age was 65.1±13.8 years and male gender percentage was 52.5%. Twenty-nine of patients had NSTE-ACS and 11 patients had unstable angina presentation. The modified Gensini scores were higher for patients with elevated hs- CRP and sLOX-1 levels. CONCLUSION: Vascular inflammation displays the onset of ACS and it is related to more complex CAD in these patients. An increase in sLOX-1 expression is closely related to anatomical complexity of CAD in ACS.

Value of cardiopulmonary exercise testing in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease.

INTRODUCTION: Respiratory and cardiac functions in association with skeletal and neurophysiologic systems can be evaluated with cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET). Compared to treadmill exercise test, CPET provides more comprehensive data about the hemodynamic response to exercise. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We aimed to evaluate the relationship with CPET findings and coronary lesions identified on angiography in patients with angina pectoris who underwent teradmill exercise, CPET and coronary angiography (CAG). By this way we sought to examine the CPET parameters that might be predictive for coronary artery disease (CAD) before diagnostic exercise test results and ischemia symptoms develop. Thirty patients in whom CAG was planned because of symptoms and exercise test results were enrolled in the study. Oxygen consumption (VO2), carbondioxide production (VCO2), minute ventilation (VE), maximum work rate (WR), DVO2/DWR and O2 pulse (VO2/HR) values were calculated. Significant CAD was defined as ≥ 50% narrowing in at least one of the coronary arteries. RESULT: The mean age was 60.4 ± 8.9 years ve 21 (65.6%) of subjects were male. On CAG, CAD was detected in 19 (59.4%) patients. Maximum heart rate, heart rate reserve (HRR), VE/VCO2 measured at anaerobic threshold (AT) and VO2(mL/kg/min) were significantly differed in patients with CAD than those without (p= 0.031; p= 0.041; p= 0.028; p= 0.03 respectively). Peak VO2, VO2/WR and O2 pulse values were higher in patients with normal angiographic results than those with CAD but the difference did not reach to statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of our study indicate that among CPET parameters AT VE/VCO2, ATVO2 (mL/kg/dk) and HRR can have predictive value in the diagnosis of CAD. We think that these parameters might be used in the evaluation of patients with angina and dyspnea suspected of CAD. In conclusion parameters obtained during the test that are not influenced by patient's effort might increase the value of CPET in the diagnosis CAD.

Relationship Between Preoperative Diastolic Transpulmonary Gradient With Pulmonary Vascular Resistance and 1-Year and Overall Mortality Rates Among Patients Undergoing Cardiac Transplant.

OBJECTIVES: Cardiac transplant is a life-saving procedure for patients with end-stage heart failure. Preoperative pulmonary vascular resistance is indicative of intrinsic pulmonary vascular disease and correlates with posttransplant survival. However, its measurement is costly and time consuming. Therefore, simpler techniques are required. Diastolic transpulmonary gradient reportedly indicates intrinsic pulmonary vascular disease. Here, we investigated the relationship between preoperative diastolic transpulmonary gradient with preoperative pulmonary vascular resistance and 1-year and overall mortality among cardiac transplant patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Fifty-one patients who underwent cardiac transplant between 2006 and 2017 were included. All patients underwent preoperative right and left heart catheterization and oxygen study. Among these, diastolic transpulmonary gradient, mean transpulmonary gradient, and pulmonary vascular resistance were correlated with one another and 1st-year and overall mortality rates. Patients were grouped according to whether they received diastolic transpulmonary gradient or not, and both groups were compared with respect to 1-year and overall mortality. Binary logistic regression analysis was done to test whether diastolic transpulmonary gradient was a significant predictor of 1-year and overall mortality. RESULTS: Mean patient age was 45.5 ± 9.8 years. The 1-year and overall mortality rates were 21.6% (11/51) and 37.3% (19/51), respectively. Diastolic transpulmonary gradient was significantly correlated with pulmonary vascular resistance, 1-year mortality, and overall mortality (P < .05) and was a significant predictor of 1-year and overall mortality (odds ratio 6.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.4-25.3; P < .05 and odds ratio 4.8; 95% CI, 1.4-17.5; P < .05, respectively). Patients with a diastolic transpulmonary gradient of ≥ 7 mm Hg had significantly higher 1-year and overall mortality (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Diastolic transpulmonary gradient can be used as a promising easy-to-use parameter of intrinsic pulmonary vascular disease and a predictor of 1-year and overall mortality among patients undergoing cardiac transplant.

Successful Treatment of a Rare Complication in a Heart Transplant Recipient: Spontaneous Axillary Artery Bleeding.

Spontaneous atraumatic axillary artery bleeding is an unusual clinical entity. Axillary artery bleeding is associated with a high mortality rate. Vascular fragility is defined as a decrease in blood vessel resistance, and increased vascular fragility is one of the reasons for arterial bleeding. In this report, we present a case of spontaneous axillary artery bleeding in a heart transplant recipient.

Is there a relationship between resistin levels and left ventricular end-diastolic pressure?

OBJECTIVE: Resistin, a cysteine-rich peptide, is associated with atherosclerosis and diabetes. Resistin levels increase corresponding to coronary artery disease (CAD) and heart failure severity. Since resistin level tends to elevate with symptomatic heart failure, it is expected to be associated with left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP). However, there is no relevant literature on the relationship between resistin levels and LVEDP. We aimed to evaluate the association between resistin levels and LVEDP, severity of CAD, carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), and echocardiographic diastolic dysfunction parameters. METHODS: For this study, 128 euvolemic patients with creatinine clearance >50 mg/dL and without acute coronary syndrome, who had typical chest pain or were stress test positive, were enrolled. Resistin level was measured by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) method. Severe CAD is defined as ≥50% stenosis in one of the major coronary arteries. LVEDP was measured during left heart catheterization. RESULTS: After coronary angiography, 60 patients (46.9%) had severe CAD. The mean LVEDPs were similar for patients with and without severe CAD (p=0.480). The resistin levels did not differ between the groups (p=0.154). The resistin levels did not correlate with LVEDP (r=-0.045, p=0.627), ejection fraction (EF; r=0.110, p=0.228), the Gensini score (r=-0.091, p=0.328), and CIMT (r=0.082, p=0.457). No significant correlation was found between the echocardiographic diastolic dysfunction parameters and resistin levels. CONCLUSION: There was no significant correlation between resistin level and LVEDP, CAD severity, echocardiographic diastolic dysfunction parameters, and CIMT. Further studies are warranted to determine the efficacy of resistin in clinical use.

Posttransplant Pulmonary Hypertension Is Correlated With Acute Rejection and Death Among Cardiac Transplant Recipients: A Single Center Study.

OBJECTIVES: Endomyocardial biopsy sampling is used to check acute rejection after cardiac transplant. However, it may lead to tricuspid valve injury and cardiac perforation; therefore, less invasive tools may be useful. Right heart catheterization provides valuable information about cardiac hemodynamics. Herein, we aimed to determine the correlation of right heart catheterization parameters with acute rejection and death during cardiac transplant follow-up. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated follow-up right heart catheterization and endomyocardial biopsy results from 47 adult patients who underwent cardiac transplant at Baskent University Faculty of Medicine between 2004 and 2016. Right heart catheterization parameters were compared between deceased and surviving patients and were correlated with acute cellular and humoral rejection. Averaged right heart catheterization parameters were correlated with death. We used Cox regression analysis to determine risk of death and acute cellular rejection and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to determine any survival differences associated with pulmonary hypertension. RESULTS: There were 47 patients (38 males, 9 females) with a mean age of 44 ± 10 years at transplant. In our patient group, 18 patients (38.3%) died at a median time of 11.2 months. Ninety endomyocardial biopsy samples (22.1%) showed cellular rejection, and 61 samples (4.5%) showed humoral rejection. The deceased patients had significantly greater mean and systolic pulmonary artery pressures, which were significantly correlated with acute cellular rejection. Death was significantly correlated with averaged values of mean and systolic pulmonary artery pressures. Our Cox regression analysis revealed that pulmonary hypertension was significantly associated with risk of death and acute cellular rejection. A Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that pulmonary hypertension was associated with a significantly lower median survival. CONCLUSIONS: Pulmonary artery pressures are significantly correlated with acute cellular rejection and death after cardiac transplant. Pulmonary hypertension significantly increases the risk of death and shortens survival after cardiac transplant.

Prevalence and Angiographic Characteristics of Coronary Vasospasm Detected at Surveillance Coronary Angiograms Among Patients With Heart Transplants.

OBJECTIVES: Coronary vasospasm in heart transplant recipients occurs through various mechanisms. It has been linked to allograft rejection and coronary vasculopathy, which can result in mortality during follow-up. Here, we investigated the prevalence of coronary vasospasm among heart transplant recipients undergoing surveillance coronary angiography procedures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study was prospectively performed at Baskent University Faculty of Medicine by retrospectively analyzing medical information of patients who underwent bicaval heart transplant between 2003 and 2016 and subsequently had coronary angiography to rule out allograft vasculopathy. We analyzed prevalence of coronary vasospasm, affected vessels, underlying vessel properties, and treatment modalities. Coronary vasospasm was defined as transient diffuse or localized luminal narrowing, either spontaneously or catheter-induced, relieved spontaneously or with nitroglycerine. RESULTS: Forty-one coronary angiography procedures were performed using the standard Judkins technique. Among these, 5 patients showed coronary vasospasm a mean of 2 years after cardiac transplant. All vasospasm episodes involved the left anterior descending artery, with 2 also involving the circumflex artery and 1 involving the right coronary artery. The degree of luminal narrowing ranged from mild to severe. Episodes that involved the left anterior descending artery more often diffusely involved most of the vessel. In 3 patients, vasospasms were recurrent. Three patients had underlying coronary artery disease, which was relieved in 2 patients who progressed by stent implant. Neither ischemic events nor reduction of ejection fraction was observed during follow-up. There were also no occurrences of cellular or humoral rejection or death in any of the patients with vasospasm. CONCLUSIONS: Coronary vasospasm is common in heart transplant recipients. It may be diffuse or localized and occur spontaneously or because of underlying coronary artery disease. Factors, including allograft vasculopathy, associated with coronary vasospasm remain to be determined, and further related research is needed.

Plasma osteopontin concentration is elevated in patients with coronary bare metal stent restenosis.

OBJECTIVE: Osteopontin is a component of atherosclerotic lesions, secreted by monocytes, macrophages and endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells, which together are responsible for neointimal proliferation. We examined whether elevated plasma osteopontin concentration was associated with in-stent restenosis in patients with coronary artery disease. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: We enrolled 91 patients who underwent coronary artery stenting, and 60 control patients with normal findings on coronary angiography, between June 2012 and September 2013. For patients with stents, we measured plasma osteopontin concentration at the first follow-up coronary angiogram. For controls, plasma osteopontin concentration was measured at the time of angiography. RESULTS: Of the 91 patients who had undergone coronary artery stenting, 31 (34.1%) had developed in-stent restenosis and the mean time passed to control coronary angiography was 36.7 months (±SD 35.1 months). Mean plasma osteopontin concentration in this group was 2721.4 ± 1787.8 pg/ml, significantly higher than the 60 patients (65.9%) with no in-stent restenosis (1770.4 ± 1208.2 pg/ml, p = .011) and the 60 patients with a normal coronary angiogram (1572.4 ± 904.8 pg/ml, p = .002). There was no significant difference in mean osteopontin concentration between the patients with no in-stent restenosis and the control group (p = .312). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated plasma osteopontin concentration is associated with in-stent stenosis in patients with coronary artery disease. Further studies will be needed to establish whether osteopontin can predict in-stent restenosis and guide clinical management strategies.

Three-Dimensional Right Ventricular Strain Versus Volume Quantification in Heart Transplant Recipients in Relation to Pulmonary Artery Pressure.

OBJECTIVES: Residual pulmonary hypertension challenges the right ventricular function and worsens the prognosis in heart transplant recipients. The complex geometry of the right ventricle complicates estimation of its function with conventional transthoracic echocardiography. We evaluated right ventricular function in heart transplant recipients with the use of 3-dimensional echocardiography in relation to systolic pulmonary artery pressure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We performed 32 studies in 26 heart transplant patients, with 6 patients having 2 studies at different time points with different pressures and thus included. Right atrial volume, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, peak systolic annular velocity, fractional area change, and 2-dimensional speckle tracking longitudinal strain were obtained by 2-dimensional and tissue Doppler imaging. Three-dimensional right ventricular volumes, ejection fraction, and 3-dimensional right ventricular strain were obtained from the 3-dimensional data set by echocardiographers. Systolic pulmonary artery pressure was obtained during right heart catheterization. RESULTS: Overall mean systolic pulmonary artery pressure was 26 ± 7 mm Hg (range, 14-44 mmHg). Three-dimensional end-diastolic (r = 0.75; P < .001) and end-systolic volumes (r = 0.55; P = .001)correlated well with systolic pulmonary artery pressure. Right ventricular ejection fraction and right atrium volume also significantly correlated with systolic pulmonary artery pressure (r = 0.49 and P = .01 for both). However, right ventricular 2- and 3-dimensional strain, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, and tricuspid annular velocity did not. CONCLUSIONS: The effects of pulmonary hemodynamic burden on right ventricular function are better estimated by a 3-dimensional volume evaluation than with 3-dimensional longitudinal strain and other 2-dimensional and tissue Doppler measurements. These results suggest that the peculiar anatomy of the right ventricle necessitates 3-dimensional volume quantification in heart transplant recipients in relation to residual pulmonary hypertension.

Preoperative Cardiac Risk Assessment in Patients Undergoing Liver Transplant Due to Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Should It Be Different?

OBJECTIVES: Liver transplant is a high-risk surgery for cardiac events. The risk of 30-day major cardiac adverse events is estimated at more than 5%. In this retrospective study, we evaluated our preoperative cardiac risk assessment approach. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We evaluated 58 adult patients who underwent liver transplant between May 2011 and May 2015. Preoperative cardiac risk factors and results of diagnostic tests were noted. Patients were divided into 2 groups: patients with or without hepatocellular carcinoma. Electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and treadmill tests were performed for preoperative cardiac evaluation in all candidates for liver transplant. Results of these tests showed our preference for myocardial perfusion scintigraphy and/or coronary angiography and heart catheterization. RESULTS: Mean age of patients was 46.5 ± 14.5 years. The most common cardiovascular risk factor was family history of coronary artery disease (24.1%) in all patients. Diabetes mellitus (15.5%) was the most common risk factor in the patient group without hepatocellular carcinoma. Three patients had already known coronary artery disease (5.2%). Of 16 patients (27.6%) who underwent coronary angiography, 4 were in the hepatocellular carcinoma group. Coronary revascularization by stent implantation was necessary for 1 patient in the hepatocellular carcinoma group; 1 patient in the group without hepatocellular carcinoma underwent preoperative coronary bypass surgery. CONCLUSIONS: No consensus exists for cardiovascular risk stratification and preoperative cardiovascular evaluation of liver transplant candidates. Noninvasive stress tests are not always feasible for all liver transplant candidates because of poor mobility and poor exercise capacity. With early diagnoses of cardiovascular conditions and preventive recommendations, liver transplant can be performed safely before spread of the disease, which is essential for carcinoma patients. Angiographic evaluation of liver transplant candidates for hepatocellular carcinoma is strongly recommended.

Serum cystatin C and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin in predicting the severity of coronary artery disease in diabetic patients.

OBJECTIVE: Cystatin C and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) are biomarkers of renal functions. We evaluated their roles in predicting the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS: Fifty-two consecutive type 2 diabetic patients (32 males, 65.7±8.6 years) who underwent coronary angiography (CAG) for stable CAD were included in this single-center, prospective, cross-sectional study. Patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and with a history of by-pass surgery and/or coronary stent implantation were excluded. The vessel score and Gensini score were calculated to assess the presence and severity of CAD. Mann-Whitney U test, Spearman test, and multiple linear regression analysis were used for the main statistical analyses. RESULTS: Serum cystatin C levels were higher in patients with multivessel disease than in those with single vessel disease [1260 ng/mL (953-1640) vs. 977 ng/mL (599-1114), p=0.017]. According to the median Gensini score, the higher score group also had higher cystatin C levels than the lower score group [1114 ng/mL (948-1567) vs. 929 ng/mL (569-1156), p=0.009]. However, serum NGAL levels were similar between these subgroups. There was a positive correlation between cystatin C and Gensini score (r=0.334, p=0.016). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed serum cystatin C as an independent predictor of the Gensini score (ß=0.360, t=2.311, p=0.026). These results may aid in defining cystatin C as a surrogate marker of the extent of CAD in further clinical trials. CONCLUSION: Serum Cystatin C, but not NGAL levels, could predict the severity of CAD in diabetic patients.

Predictive Value of Hematologic Parameters for Detecting Asymptomatic Graft Rejection After Heart Transplant: Preliminary Results.

OBJECTIVES: Hematologic parameters, such as mean platelet volume, red-cell distribution width, and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, have prognostic value in multiple cardiac conditions such as stable angina pectoris, acute coronary syndromes, and heart failure. However, no previous studies have evaluated the association between hematologic parameters and asymptomatic graft rejection after heart transplant. We evaluated the role of hematologic parameters for detecting asymptomatic graft rejection after heart transplant. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated medical records of 47 adult patients who underwent orthotopic heart transplant between February 25, 2005, and July 6, 2014, in our hospital, noting their hematologic parameters before each biopsy. Two groups were created according to biopsy results: rejection and no-rejection. RESULTS: We excluded 4 patients who died during the first month posttransplant owing to early complications. We evaluated 422 endomyocardial biopsy results of 43 adult patients (mean age, 43.4 ± 11.4 y; 14 women). Mean follow-up was 33 months. A total of 109 biopsies performed because of clinical suspicion of rejection were excluded. Red-cell distribution width levels were similar between groups (17.2% ± 2.6% in the rejection group and 17.1% ± 2.5% in the no-rejection group; P = .856). Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was similar between groups (7.8 ± 9.9 in the rejection group and 8.2 ± 9.7 in the no-rejection group; P = .791). Mean platelet volume levels were significantly lower in the rejection group (8.3 ± 1.3 fL) than in the no-rejection group (8.8 ± 1.8 fL) (P = .037) (Table 1). CONCLUSIONS: According to our results, only lower mean platelet volume levels were significantly associated with asymptomatic graft rejection in patients with a transplanted heart. More detailed analyses are needed to exclude the effects of immunosuppressant drugs, and further studies are needed to clarify the exact role of hematologic parameters for detecting asymptomatic rejection after heart transplant.

Hematological parameters can predict the extent of coronary artery disease in patients with end-stage renal disease.

PURPOSE: Aside from traditional factors (e.g., diabetes, age, and hypertension), some hematological parameters, such as neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), red blood cell distribution width (RDW), and mean platelet volume (MPV), have increasingly been reported as measures of systemic inflammation and atherosclerosis in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This study aimed to determine whether there is an association between these hematological parameters and the extent of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with ESRD. METHODS: A total of 149 consecutive ESRD patients (66 % males) without established CAD were studied. NLR, RDW, and MPV values in all patients were calculated from the complete blood count before coronary angiography. Angiographic views were assessed by an experienced interventional cardiologist, and the extent of CAD was evaluated by the Gensini score. The patients were divided into quartiles of the Gensini score. RESULTS: Age, time on dialysis, calcium-phosphorus product, C-reactive protein levels, NLR, and MPV were significantly different among the groups (all p < 0.05). The Gensini score was correlated with age, time on dialysis (both p < 0.001), NLR (p = 0.004), and C-reactive protein levels (p = 0.034) and inversely correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (p = 0.023). Multivariate regression analysis showed that age (p = 0.001), time on dialysis (p < 0.001), NLR (p = 0.001), and MPV (p = 0.005) were independent predictors of the extent of CAD. CONCLUSIONS: Aside from the well-known traditional factors, NLR and MPV are independent predictors of the extent of CAD in patients with ESRD.

Comparison of Carvedilol and Metoprolol for Preventing Contrast-Induced Nephropathy after Coronary Angiography.

AIMS: Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the most common causes of hospital-acquired acute renal failure. Oxidative stress and vasoconstriction might play key roles in its pathogenesis. In a few experimental models, antioxidant properties of carvedilol have been documented. The aim of this study was to analyze and compare the effects of carvedilol and metoprolol on the development of CIN in patients undergoing coronary angiography. METHODS: One hundred patients currently taking metoprolol and 100 patients currently taking carvedilol were enrolled into the study. Venous blood samples were obtained before and 48 h after contrast administration. Cystatin C and malondialdehyde values were examined and compared. CIN was defined as a creatinine increase of at least 25% or 0.5 mg/dl from the baseline value. RESULTS: Seven patients in the carvedilol group (7%) and 22 patients in the metoprolol group (22%) developed CIN (p = 0.003). In the metoprolol group, the median cystatin C concentration increased significantly from 978 to 1,086 ng/ml (p = 0.001) 48 h after radiocontrast administration. In the carvedilol group, the median cystatin C concentration did not change significantly (1,143 vs. 1,068 ng/ml; p = 0.94). In the metoprolol group, the mean malondialdehyde concentration increased significantly from 7.09 ± 1.48 to 8.38 ± 2.6 nmol/l (p < 0.001). In the carvedilol group, the mean serum malondialdehyde concentration did not change significantly (7.44 ± 1.21 vs. 7.56 ± 1.11 nmol/l; p = 0.59). CONCLUSION: When compared to metoprolol, carvedilol might decrease oxidative stress and subsequent development of CIN.

Coronary anatomy, anatomic variations and anomalies: a retrospective coronary angiography study.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of coronary artery anomalies (CAAs) varies from 0.2% to 8.4%. Knowledge of such anatomical variations is important as coronary procedures are regularly performed these days. We aimed to find the coronary dominance pattern, intermediate artery (IMA) frequency and CAA incidence in our clinic, and compare them to those in the literature. METHODS: The medical reports of 5,548 patients who had undergone coronary angiography (CAG) between 2005 and 2009 were retrospectively investigated. Dominance pattern and presence of IMA and CAA were recorded. CAAs were described using two different classifications: Angelini and Khatami's classification, and a new modified classification that was derived from Angelini and Khatami's classification. Some procedural details and clinical features of the patients with CAA were also investigated. RESULTS: Coronary dominance pattern was: 81.6% right coronary artery, 12.2% circumflex artery and 6.2% co-dominant. IMA was present in 613 (11.0%) patients. The incidences of overall anomaly were 2.7% and 1.4%, according to the different classifications. Absent left main coronary artery, which was the most common anomaly in the present study, was found in 51 (0.9%) patients. Incidences of myocardial bridge, coronary arteriovenous fistulae and aneurysms were 1.1%, 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively. CONCLUSION: CAAs are generally asymptomatic, isolated lesions. Some may lead to anginal symptoms, myocardial infarction or sudden death. We found that CAA was associated with increased radiation and contrast exposure in patients who underwent CAG. This risk could be reduced if appropriate catheters were designed and training programmes on ostial cannulation were developed.

Could plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine level be a novel predictor beyond the classic predictors of stent restenosis?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the factors associated with coronary stent restenosis and if there is an association between plasma asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) levels and stent restenosis. METHODS: Ninety-one patients, who had a history of coronary bare metal stent implantation due to any cause in the last one year period, were admitted to this observational cross-sectional study. Coronary angiography was performed to all patients and quantitative angiography was used to determine the presence of stent restenosis. Laboratory parameters and angiographic features that contribute to stent restenosis were evaluated. Plasma ADMA levels were measured by using high performance liquid chromatography. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the independent factors of stent restenosis. RESULTS: Angiographic restenosis was found in 35 patients (38.5%). Stent diameter (p=0.038) and left ventricular ejection fraction (p=0.023) were lower and stent implantation history due to acute coronary syndrome (p=0.029), plasma ADMA level (5.0±1.8x10-4 mmol/L vs. 3.9±1.0x10-4 mmol/L, p=0.001), C-reactive protein concentration (p=0.016), white blood cell count (p=0.044) and stent length (p=0.005) were higher in patients with restenosis. Plasma ADMA level (ß=0.536; OR: 1.710; CI: 1.022-2.861; p=0.041), C-reactive protein concentration (ß=0.062; OR: 1.064; CI: 1.003-1.129; p=0.041), stent diameter (ß=-3.047; OR: 0.048; CI: 0.007-0.313; p=0.002) and length (ß=0.165; OR: 1.179; CI: 1.036-1.343; p=0.013) were found to be the independent predictors of stent restenosis in logistic regression analysis. CONCLUSION: We conclude that plasma ADMA levels may be used as a novel marker for stent restenosis beyond the classic stent restenosis markers.

The effects of a low international normalized ratio on thromboembolic and bleeding complications in patients with mechanical mitral valve replacement.

BACKGROUND: Mechanical heart valve replacement has an inherent risk of thromboembolic events (TEs). Current guidelines recommend an international normalized ratio (INR) of at least 2.5 after mechanical mitral valve replacement (MVR). This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a low INR (2.0-2.5) on thromboembolic and bleeding complications in patients with mechanical MVR on warfarin therapy. METHODS: One hundred and thirty-five patients who underwent mechanical MVR were enrolled in this study. The end points of this study were defined as TEs (valve thrombosis, transient ischemic attack, stroke) and bleeding (all minor and major bleeding) complications. Patients were followed up for a mean of 39.6 months and the mean INR of the patients was calculated. After data collection, patients were divided into 3 groups according to their mean INR, as follows: group 1 (n = 34), INR <2.0; group 2 (n = 49), INR 2.0-2.5; and group 3 (n = 52), INR >2.5. RESULTS: A total of 22 events (10 [7.4%] thromboembolic and 12 [8.8%] bleeding events) occurred in the follow-up period. The mean INR was an independent risk factor for the development of TEs. Mean INR and neurological dysfunction were independent risk factors for the development of bleeding events. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between the log mean INR and all bleeding events, and a negative correlation was found between the log mean INR and all TEs. The total number of events was significantly lower in group 2 than in groups 1 and 3 (P = 0.036). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that a target INRs of 2.0-2.5 are acceptable for preventing TEs and safe in terms of bleeding complications in patients with mechanical MVR.