Could We Predict POAF With a Simple Ambulatory Oscillometry Evaluating Aortic Stiffness?

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the relationship between aortic stiffness and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). METHODS: This study included 110 patients undergoing elective isolated CABG. Aortic stiffness was measured using a noninvasive oscillometric sphygmomanometer before surgery. Characteristics of patients with and without POAF were compared. RESULTS: POAF developed in 32 (29.1%) patients. Patients with POAF were older (63.7±8.6 vs. 58.3±8.4; P=0.014). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was more common in patients with POAF (11.5% vs. 37.5%; P=0.024), whereas the frequency of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and previous coronary artery disease did not differ. C-reactive protein and cholesterol levels were similar between patients with and without POAF. Left atrial diameter was greater in patients with POAF (35.9±1.6 vs. 36.7±1.7; P<0.039). Peripheral (p) and central (c) systolic and diastolic blood pressures were also similar between the groups, whereas both p and c pulse pressures (PP) were greater in patients with POAF (pPP: 44.3±11.9 vs. 50.3±11.6; P=0.018, cPP: 31.4±8.1 vs. 36.2±8.9; P=0.008). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was significantly higher in POAF (8.6+1.3 vs. 9.4+1.3; P=0.006). PWV, pPR and COPD were independent predictors of POAF in multivariate regression analysis. In receiver operating characteristic analysis, PWV and pPP have similar accuracy for predicting POAF (PWV, area under the curve [AUC]: 0.661, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.547-0.775], P=0.009) (pPP, AUC: 0.656, 95% CI [0.542-0.769], P=0.012). CONCLUSION: COPD, PWV, and PP are predictors of POAF. PP and PWV, easily measured in office conditions, might be useful for detecting patients with a higher risk of POAF.

Could We Predict POAF With a Simple Ambulatory Oscillometry Evaluating Aortic Stiffness?

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the relationship between aortic stiffness and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: This study included 110 patients undergoing elective isolated CABG. Aortic stiffness was measured using a noninvasive oscillometric sphygmomanometer before surgery. Characteristics of patients with and without POAF were compared. Results: POAF developed in 32 (29.1%) patients. Patients with POAF were older (63.7±8.6 vs. 58.3±8.4; P=0.014). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was more common in patients with POAF (11.5% vs. 37.5%; P=0.024), whereas the frequency of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and previous coronary artery disease did not differ. C-reactive protein and cholesterol levels were similar between patients with and without POAF. Left atrial diameter was greater in patients with POAF (35.9±1.6 vs. 36.7±1.7; P<0.039). Peripheral (p) and central (c) systolic and diastolic blood pressures were also similar between the groups, whereas both p and c pulse pressures (PP) were greater in patients with POAF (pPP: 44.3±11.9 vs. 50.3±11.6; P=0.018, cPP: 31.4±8.1 vs. 36.2±8.9; P=0.008). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was significantly higher in POAF (8.6+1.3 vs. 9.4+1.3; P=0.006). PWV, pPR and COPD were independent predictors of POAF in multivariate regression analysis. In receiver operating characteristic analysis, PWV and pPP have similar accuracy for predicting POAF (PWV, area under the curve [AUC]: 0.661, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.547-0.775], P=0.009) (pPP, AUC: 0.656, 95% CI [0.542-0.769], P=0.012). Conclusion: COPD, PWV, and PP are predictors of POAF. PP and PWV, easily measured in office conditions, might be useful for detecting patients with a higher risk of POAF.

Breastfeeding does not protect against the development of carditis in children with acute rheumatic fever.

INTRODUCTION: Acute rheumatic fever is an autoimmune disease that develops due to streptococcal infection. The positive effect of breastfeeding on the development of the child's immune system is well documented. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of breast milk intake period on the development of carditis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Patients (n: 182) who were diagnosed with acute rheumatic fever between 2010 and 2019 were enrolled in the study. The patients were divided into groups according to carditis development. The demographic, socio-economic, and breastfeeding data were compared between groups. RESULTS: The mean age of the patients was 10.5 ± 3.4, and 43.4 % (n: 79) of them were female. Independent predictors of the development of carditis in the first acute rheumatic fever episode were the number of children at home (OR: 1.773, CI 95%: 1.105, 2.845; p: 0.018) and breast milk intake less than 6 months (OR: 0.404, CI 95%: 0.174, 0.934; p: 0.034). Independent predictors of the development of carditis in any of the acute rheumatic fever episodes were the number of children at home (OR: 1.858, CI 95%: 1.100, 3.137; p: 0.021) and female gender (OR: 3.504, CI 95%: 1.227, 10.008; p: 0.019). The only independently predictor of the development of chorea during acute rheumatic fever was female gender (OR: 3.801, CI 95%: 1.463, 9.874; p: 0.006). CONCLUSION: Although the occurrence of carditis is less common during the first acute rheumatic fever attack in patients with breast milk intake less than six months, this advantage is lost in recurrent attacks. This study showed that breast milk does not have a negative effect on acute rheumatic fever carditis.

Index of cardiac-electrophysiological balance and the effects of thrombolytic therapy on the electrocardiogram of patients with pulmonary embolism.

OBJECTIVE: Different parameters on electrocardiograms (ECG) have been investigated to predict arrhythmia and mortality in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (APE). The acute effect of thrombolytic therapy (TT) on these parameters has not been investigated yet. METHODS: We examined the data of 83 patients who were evaluated as high-risk APE and discharged from the hospital after TT. First, the high-risk APE patients' ECGs were compared with healthy control subjects (n = 55). After their admission and 24 hours later, the ECGs of patients with APE were compared. Heart rate, P-wave morphology, QRS duration, QT distance, Tp-e, and the index of cardiac electrophysiological balance (iCEB) were analyzed. RESULTS: Although P maximum was not different between the groups' ECGs, heart rate, QT, QTc (corrected QT) interval, Tp-e intervals, Tp-e/QT ratio, and P wave dispersion were significantly higher in the APE group ( P values < 0.031). iCEB or iCEBc (corrected iCEB) values were lower in APE group ( P < 0.001). After TT, we determined a decrease in heart rate, Tp-e interval, and Tp-e/QT ratio ( P < 0.001). Although we detected a decrease in the QT and QTc interval and QT dispersion (QTd), QTd had no statistical significance (respectively P -value 0.013, 0.029, and 0.096). The iCEB and iCEBc levels were lower after TT ( P -value was 0.035 and 0.044 respectively). CONCLUSION: The QT, QTc, Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QTc ratio, iCEB, and iCEBc values significantly decreased after TT. It may be thought that effective TT causes partial improvement in ventricular repolarization in an early period.

Index of cardiac-electrophysiological balance and the effects of thrombolytic therapy on the electrocardiogram of patients with pulmonary embolism

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: Different parameters on electrocardiograms (ECG) have been investigated to predict arrhythmia and mortality in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (APE). The acute effect of thrombolytic therapy (TT) on these parameters has not been investigated yet. METHODS: We examined the data of 83 patients who were evaluated as high-risk APE and discharged from the hospital after TT. First, the high-risk APE patients' ECGs were compared with healthy control subjects (n = 55). After their admission and 24 hours later, the ECGs of patients with APE were compared. Heart rate, P-wave morphology, QRS duration, QT distance, Tp-e, and the index of cardiac electrophysiological balance (iCEB) were analyzed. RESULTS: Although P maximum was not different between the groups' ECGs, heart rate, QT, QTc (corrected QT) interval, Tp-e intervals, Tp-e/QT ratio, and P wave dispersion were significantly higher in the APE group ( P values < 0.031). iCEB or iCEBc (corrected iCEB) values were lower in APE group ( P < 0.001). After TT, we determined a decrease in heart rate, Tp-e interval, and Tp-e/QT ratio ( P < 0.001). Although we detected a decrease in the QT and QTc interval and QT dispersion (QTd), QTd had no statistical significance (respectively P -value 0.013, 0.029, and 0.096). The iCEB and iCEBc levels were lower after TT ( P -value was 0.035 and 0.044 respectively). CONCLUSION: The QT, QTc, Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QTc ratio, iCEB, and iCEBc values significantly decreased after TT. It may be thought that effective TT causes partial improvement in ventricular repolarization in an early period.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Diferentes parâmetros de eletrocardiograma (ECG) têm sido investigados para predizer mortalidade e arritmia em pacientes com embolia pulmonar aguda (EPA). O efeito agudo da terapia trombolítica (TT) nesses parâmetros ainda não foi investigado. MÉTODOS: Examinamos os dados de 83 pacientes avaliados com EPA de alto risco e que receberam alta hospitalar após TT. Primeiramente, comparamos os ECGs dos pacientes com EPA de alto risco com os de indivíduos saudáveis (n = 55). Os ECGs dos pacientes com EPA foram comparados logo após a internação e 24 horas mais tarde. A frequência cardíaca, a morfologia da onda P, a duração do QRS, o intervalo QT, Tp-e e o índice de equilíbrio eletrofisiológico cardíaco (iCEB) foram analisados. RESULTADOS: Embora o valor máximo de P não tenha sido diferente entre os grupos no ECG, a frequência cardíaca, QT, intervalo QTc (QT corrigido), intervalos Tpe, razão TP-e/QT e dispersão da onda P foram significativamente mais elevados no grupo de EPA (valores de P < 0,031). Os valores do iCEB ou iCEBc (iCEB corrigido) foram inferiores no grupo de APE (P < 0,001). Após a TT, observamos uma diminuição da frequência cardíaca, do intervalo TP-e e da razão TP-e/QT ( P < 0,001). Apesar de termos observado uma diminuição do intervalo QT e QTc e da dispersão do QT (QTd), o valor de QTd não apresentou uma diferença estatisticamente significativa (respectivamente, valor de P 0,013, 0,029 e 0,096). Os níveis do iCEB e iCEBc foram menores após a TT (valor de P 0,035 e 0,044, respectivamente). CONCLUSÃO: Os valores de QT, QTc, intervalo Tp-e, razão Tp-e/QTc, iCEB e iCEBc diminuíram significativamente após TT. Pode-se concluir que a TT eficaz causa uma melhora parcial da repolarização ventricular no período inicial.

Relationship between fragmented QRS complexes and ejection fraction recovery in anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing thrombolytic treatment.

BACKGROUND: Acute anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a life-threatening disease. Adverse cardiac events of acute anterior STEMI include cardiovascular death or worsening congestive heart failure. This study investigated the role of fragmented QRS complex (fQRS) in predicting insufficient ejection fraction (EF) recovery in acute anterior STEMI. METHODS: Patients with acute anterior STEMI who received thrombolytic therapy were prospectively enrolled in this study. Twelve-lead electrocardiography (ECG) was obtained from all patients during admission and 24 and 48 h after admission. We divided the patients into two groups according to the presence of fQRS appearance within 48 h: absence of fQRS in any lead (fQRS-), and its presence in two or more contiguous leads (fQRS+). All patients were evaluated with transthoracic echocardiography at admission, and at follow-up 6 and 12 months later. RESULTS: A total of 138 consecutive patients were included in the study. Seventy-three patients (52.9%) had fQRS in the ECG. EF recovery in the fQRS(+) group was significantly lower than that of the fQRS(-) group (39% vs. 43.9%, P < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the fQRS (odds ratio: 4.147, 95% confidence interval: 1.607-10.697, P = 0.003) were an independent predictor of poor EF recovery. CONCLUSION: The presence of fQRS is an independent predictor for inadequate EF recovery in acute anterior STEMI patients undergoing thrombolytic treatment. Assessment of fQRS on surface ECG may be used in determining high-risk patients for poor EF recovery after acute anterior STEMI.

Serum Heparanase Level Is Decreased in Stable Coronary Artery Disease.

OBJECTIVE: Heparanase (HPA), mammalian endo-ß-D-glu-cu-ronidase, separates heparan sulfate chains of proteoglycans and changes the structure of the extracellular matrix. We investigated whether serum levels of HPA differ in patients with stable coronary artery disease (SCAD) and subjects with normal coronary arteries. METHODS: This study enrolled 92 patients with SCAD and 34 controls with normal coronary arteries. Levels of HPA were measured by a commercially available human HPA enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. RESULTS: Serum HPA levels were significantly lower in the SCAD group (137.5 [104.1-178.9] vs. 198.8 [178.2-244.9] pg/mL; p < 0.001). Serum HPA levels were significantly higher in subjects with diabetes mellitus (DM) compared to those without DM (p = 0.008). Levels of HPA were lower in the SCAD group, both in the diabetic and nondiabetic subgroups, as compared to controls (p < 0.001 for both subgroups). Levels of HPA positively correlated with fasting blood glucose (FBG) (r: 0.42; p < 0.001). In multiple logistic regression analysis, serum HPA level (odds ratio [OR]: 0.975; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.966, 0.985; p < 0.001) and FBG (OR: 1.028; 95% CI: 1.010, 1.047; p = 0.002) were independently associated with SCAD. The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that HPA levels less than 160.6 pg/mL predicted SCAD with 65% sensitivity and 97% specificity (AUC: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.728, 0.878; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Diabetes and FBG levels were closely associated with serum levels of HPA. Low serum levels of HPA may predict SCAD in both diabetic and nondiabetic populations.

Predictive value of transmitral A-wave acceleration time for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.

BACKGROUND: It has been shown that transmitral A-wave (TMAW) is affected in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), and decreased left atrial contractions cause a decrease in the TMAW velocity. The relationship between TMAW acceleration time (TMAW-AccT) and PAF is unknown. In this study, the predictive value of TMAW-AccT for PAF was investigated. METHODS: Seventy PAF patients (mean age: 57.8 ± 11.0 years) and 70 control patients (mean age: 58.1 ± 10.5 years) were included in the study. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed in sinus rhythm in all patients. For TMAW-AccT, the time between the basal point of the A-wave and the highest point reached was measured. RESULTS: Transmitral A-wave -AccT was significantly longer in the PAF group than the control group (TMAW-AccT; 88.5 ± 18.1 vs 77.2 ± 16.4 ms, P = .000, respectively). The left atrial diameter and the left atrial volume index were similar between the groups (P = .07, P = .18, respectively). According to a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the TMAW-AccT (OR: 1.02, 95% confidence interval 1.02-1.07, P < .001) was a predictor of PAF. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed a cutoff value of TMAW-AccT of >82 ms (sensitivity: 65.7%, specificity: 64.3%, positive predictive value: 64.8%, negative predictive value: 65.2%). CONCLUSION: Transmitral A-wave-AccT can be used as an early marker in detecting PAF without dilated left atrium.

Association between depression and anxiety scores and inflammation in patients with isolated coronary artery ectasia.

OBJECTIVE: Depression and anxiety disorders are frequently found in combination with obstructive coronary artery disease. Coronary artery ectasia (CAE) is an atypical form of coronary artery disease, the etiology of which has not yet been clearly defined. The aim of this study was to assess the existence of a relationship between anxiety/depression and CAE. METHODS: A CAE group (n=41; mean age: 58.9±9.0 years) and a control group (n=42; mean age: 58.0±9.6 years) were compared. The anxiety and depression status of patients was evaluated using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) questionnaire. RESULTS: Age, sex, ejection fraction, and cardiovascular risk factor data were similar in both groups. The serum Creactive protein (CRP) and uric acid levels as well as the leukocyte count were significantly higher in the CAE group (p<0.05). The HADS anxiety score was higher in the CAE group, but without statistical significance (p=0.23). The HADS depression score and total HADS score was significantly higher in the CAE group (p<0.001 and p<0.001). The total HADS score and the HADS depression score were correlated with the serum CRP level (r=0.489; p<0.001 and r=0.543; p<0.001, respectively), whereas the anxiety score was not correlated with CRP (r=0.85; p=0.23). CONCLUSION: The depression score, CRP, and uric acid levels were greater in patients with isolated CAE compared with those of patients with normal coronaries. The anxiety score did not demonstrate a relationship to CAE; however, there was an association between the depression score and CRP, which is an inflammatory marker.

Relationship between SYNTAX score and myocardial viability in ischemic cardiomyopathy.

OBJECTIVE: The SYNTAX score (SS) is not just a measure of the severity of coronary artery disease, but also complexity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the SS and myocardial viability/non-viability assessed by positron emission tomography (PET) in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (IC). METHODS: A total of 107 IC patients who had undergone PET were enrolled in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of viable myocardium. SS was analyzed from recorded conventional coronary angiographies. RESULTS: Patients with a non-viable myocardium (n=21; 19.6%) had a significantly higher SS compared to those with a viable myocardium (17.6±3.7 vs. 14.1±5.2, respectively; p=0.004). Point-biserial correlation coefficient analysis indicated that the presence of myocardial non-viability was mildly correlated with a higher SS (rpb=-0.28, p=0.004). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the SS was identified as the sole independent predictor of myocardial non-viability (odds ratio [OR]: 1.164, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.044-1.297; p =0.006]. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed a cutoff point of 16 for predicting a non-viable myocardium (area under curve: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.61-0.82) with a sensitivity of 76.2% and a specificity of 61.6%. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study indicates that a high SS is associated with the presence of a non-viable myocardium in IC patients.

Heparanase is a predictive marker for high thrombus burden in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Objective: Heparanase (HPA) is an endo-ß-D-glucuronidase capable of degrading heparin sulphate (HS) and heparin side chains. HPA plays a role in tumour growth, angiogenesis, cell invasion and in activation of the coagulation system. We aimed to investigate the relationship between HPA and thrombus burden (TB) in patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI). Methods: This prospective study enrolled 187 patients with STEMI who were treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). Blood samples were taken to determine serum HPA levels prior to coronary angiography and heparin administration. Serum HPA analysis was performed with a commercially available Human Elisa kit. Results: Patients were divided into two groups: high TB (n:58) and low TB (n:129) group. Serum HPA levels were significantly higher in patients with high TB than low TB [250.1 (188.5-338.1) vs. 173.6 (134.3-219.8) pg/mL] (p < 0.001). Serum HPA levels were higher in patients with no-reflow phenomenon compared with others [(409.3 (375.6-512.5) pg/mL vs. 186.2 (144.2-247.4) pg/mL, p < 0.001]. In multiple logistic regression analysis HPA was a predictor of high TB. Conclusion: Elevated HPA level in patients with STEMI is related to high TB. Furthermore, increased HPA level may be associated with thrombotic complications such as no-reflow phenomenon in patients with STEMI.

Hematological indices in renovascular hypertension: A propensity score matching analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Various hematological blood count parameters, including the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and mean platelet volume (MPV), were analyzed to assess differences in patients with renovascular (RVH) and essential hypertension (EH). METHODS: A propensity score analysis was performed to match 51 patients with RVH and 173 patients with EH. After matching, 49 pairs of patients were compared. RESULTS: Before matching, patients with RVH had significantly higher NLR values [1.35 (range: 1.14-1.76) vs. 1.05 (range: 0.81-1.3); p<0.001] and MPV [8.7 fL (range: 8.3-9.5 fL) vs. 8.4 fL (range: 7.3-9.2 fL; p=0.002]. After propensity score matching was performed (49 vs 49 patients), age, sex, atherosclerosis risk factors, frequency of atherosclerosis, and the medications used were similar between groups. The NLR was significantly greater in patients with RVH [1.00 (range: 0.76-1.40) vs 1.35 (range: 1.15-1.75; p<0.001]. The MPV did not differ significantly between groups. The NLR was the only parameter independently associated with RVH in a multivariate logistic regression [odds ratio: 5.563, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.089-14.814; p≤0.001]. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis results indicated that NLR >1.16 predicted RVH with a sensitivity of 72% and a specificity of 60% [area under curve: 0.724, 95% CI: 0.624-0.823; p≤0.001]. CONCLUSION: The results of the present study demonstrated that NLR, which is a simple, clinical parameter of inflammation, was elevated in patients with RVH.

Effects of atrial electromechanical delay and ventriculoatrial conduction over the atrial functions in patients with frequent extrasystole and preserved ejection fraction.

BACKGROUND: The deterioration of left atrial and ventricular functions was demonstrated in patients with frequent ventricular extrasystole (fVES). The exact pathophysiology of left atrial dysfunction in patients with fVES is unclear. Retrograde ventriculoatrial conduction (VAC) often accompanies fVES, which may contribute to atrial dysfunction. We investigated whether atrial electromechanical delay and VAC are related to these atrial functions in patients with frequent right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) VES and preserved ejection fraction (pEF). METHODS: This study included 21 patients with pEF (eight males, 48 ± 11 years), who had experienced more than 10 000 RVOT-VES during 24-h Holter monitoring and had undergone electrophysiological study/ablation. The study also included 20 healthy age- and sex-matched control subjects. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed on all of the subjects. Atrial conduction time was obtained by using tissue Doppler imaging. Strain analysis was performed with two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography. RESULTS: The peak atrial longitudinal strain was significantly impaired in patients with fVES (P = 0.01). In addition, although the interatrial and left atrial conduction delay times were significantly different between each group (P < 0.001, P < 0.001), the right atrial conduction delay times were similar. When patients with fVES were divided into groups depending on the existence of retrograde VAC, atrial deformation parameters and conduction delay time did not significantly differ between either group. CONCLUSION: Frequent RVOT-VES causes left atrial dysfunction. This information is obtained through strain analyses and recordings of left atrial conduction times in patients with pEF. Regardless, retrograde VAC is not related to atrial dysfunction.

The relationship between heparanase levels, thrombus burden and thromboembolism in patients receiving unfractionated heparin treatment for prosthetic valve thrombosis.

INTRODUCTION: Procoagulant activity of heparanase has been recently described in several arterial and venous thrombotic disorders. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of heparanase with regard to thrombus burden, thromboembolism, and treatment success with unfractionated heparin (UFH) in patients with prosthetic valve thrombosis (PVT). METHODS: This study enrolled 79 PVT patients who received UFH for PVT and 82 controls. Plasma samples which were collected from patients both at baseline and after the UFH treatment and from controls at baseline only, were tested for heparanase levels by heparanase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS: The PVT group included 18 obstructive and 61 non-obstructive PVT patients who received UFH infusions for a median duration of 15 (7-20) days. The UFH treatment was successful in 37 (46.8%) patients. Baseline heparanase levels were significantly higher in the patient group than in the controls [0.29 (0.21-0.71) vs. 0.25 (0.17-0.33) ng/mL; p = 0.002]. Baseline heparanase levels were significantly higher in obstructive PVT patients. There was a significant increase in heparanase levels after UFH treatment. Post-UFH heparanase levels were higher in patients who experienced treatment failure compared to successfully treated group. Baseline and post-UFH heparanase levels were significantly higher in patients with a thrombus area ≥1 cm2 and with a recent history of thromboembolism. CONCLUSIONS: Increased heparanase levels may be one of the esoteric causes for PVT. UFH treatment may trigger an increase in heparanase levels which may affect the treatment success. Increased heparanase levels may be associated with high risk of thromboembolism and increased thrombus burden in PVT patients.

A rare echocardiographic image of aortic prosthetic valve endocarditis complicated with paravalvular abscess, pseudoaneurysm and aorto-right atrial fistula.

Early infectious endocarditis (IE) occurs in 3% of prosthesis in the first 12 months. Early IE is more aggressive than late prosthetic valve endocarditis. Mortality remains high, despite combined medical and surgical treatment. We present a case of early IE in aortic prosthetic valve complicated with paravalvular abscess, pseudoaneurysm and aorto- right atrial fistula.

Red Cell Distribution Width with CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc score is associated with Post-operative Atrial Fibrillation after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

BACKGROUND: The use of the CHA2DS2-VASc scoring system and red cell distribution width (RDW) as post-op Atrial Fibrillation (POAF) predictors may be promising for the identification of patients that are at a higher risk of POAF. METHODS: A total of 358 patients (57 patients with POAF, and 301 patients with non-POAF ) with sinus rhythm undergoing a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) operation were included in the study retrospectively. Preoperative RDW levels and electrocardiograms with sinus rhythm were recorded. Patients with at least one 12-lead electrocardiogram with atrial fibrillation in the postoperative period, with or without medical or electrical cardioversion, were considered to have postoperative atrial fibrillation. A CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc score was calculated for all of the patients. RESULTS: RDW levels were significantly higher in POAF group. RDW levels were significantly correlated with CHADS2 ( r = 0.15, P = .007) and CHA2DS2-VASc (r = 0.19 P = .0001) scores. CHA2DS2-VASc scores were significantly higher in patients with POAF, whereas CHADS2 scores did not differ between groups. In multivariate analysis, left atrial diameter (LAD) (OR:2.44 [95% CI 1.16 - 5.1], P = .018), age (OR:1.04 [95% CI 1.01 - 1.08], P = .01), and RDW (OR:1.16 [95% CI 1.0 - 1.36], P = .05) were found to be predictive for POAF. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve of RDW was 0.65 (0.57 - 0.72, P = .0001) with 68.4% sensitivity and 51.2 % specificity to predict POAF. CONCLUSION: Our study showed that age, LAD, and the reduced probability of RDW are predictors of POAF, and that RDW is strongly associated with the thromboembolic risk as determined by CHADS2 and CHA2DS2-VASc scores.

QTc interval is prolonged in Wilson's disease with neurologic involvement.

Background Neurologic and liver involvement in Wilson's disease (WD) is well-documented, however, few reports demonstrated cardiac involvement. Tpe and Tpe/QT are new measures of ventricular repolarization which were recently suggested as predictor of arrythmogenesis. We aimed to evaluate ventricular depolarization and repolarization parameters including QT, QTc, Tpe intervals, Tpe/QT, Tpe/QTc ratios, and QT dispersion (QTd) in patients with WD. Materials and methods Thirty-five patients with WD and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. Patients were evaluated by a neurologist in addition to MR imaging. Twenty-one of 35 patients were diagnosed as neuroWilson (NW), whereas 14 patients as non-NW. ECG recordings were obtained using a 12-lead commercial device (Cardiac Science, Burdick s500,USA). All patients underwent standard echocardiographic evaluation. These two groups of patients and healthy controls were compared. Results There were no difference between patients with WD and healthy controls in terms of age sex, BMI, liver, and kidney functions where as patients with WD were anemic and thrombocytopenic. Left atrial, ventricular dimensions, left ventricular systolic, and diastolic functions were similar between patients and healthy control. QT interval was prolonged in patient group, however, QTc, Tpe intervals, Tpe/QT, and Tpe/QTc ratios and QTd did not differ between groups. When patients with NW and non-NW were compared, both QT and QTc intervals were significantly longer in patients with NW, however, Tpe interval, Tpe/QT and Tpe/QTc ratios, and QTd did not differ. Conclusion QT and QTc intervals are prolonged in patients with Wilson's disease and neurologic involvement.

Papillary Muscle Free Strain in Patients with Severe Degenerative and Functional Mitral Regurgitation.

FUNDAMENTO:: The role of papillary muscle function in severe mitral regurgitation with preserved and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and the method of choice to evaluate PM have still been the subjects of controversy. OBJECTIVES:: To evaluate and compare papillary muscle function in and between patients with severe degenerative and functional mitral regurgitation by using the free strain method. METHODS:: 64 patients with severe mitral regurgitation - 39 patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR group) and 25 patients with severe functional mitral regurgitation (FMR group) - and 30 control subjects (control group) were included in the study. Papillary muscle function was evaluated through the free strain method from apical four chamber images of the anterolateral papillary muscle (APM) and from apical three chamber images of the posteromedial papillary muscle (PPM). Global left ventricular longitudinal and circumferential strains were evaluated by applying 2D speckle tracking imaging. RESULTS:: Global left ventricular longitudinal strain (DMR group, -17 [-14.2/-20]; FMR group, -9 [-7/-10.7]; control group, -20 [-18/-21] p < 0.001), global left ventricular circumferential strain (DMR group, -20 [-14.5/-22.7]; FMR group, -10 [-7/-12]; control group, -23 [-21/-27.5] p < 0.001) and papillary musle strains (PPMS; DMR group, -30.5 [-24/-46.7]; FMR group, -18 [-12/-30]; control group; -43 [-34.5/-39.5] p < 0.001; APMS; DMR group, (-35 [-23.5/-43]; FMR group, -20 [-13.5/-26]; control group, -40 [-32.5/-48] p < 0.001) were significantly different among all groups. APMS and PPMS were highly correlated with LVEF (p < 0.001, p < 0.001; respectively), GLS (p < 0.001, p < 0.001; respectively) and GCS (p < 0.001, p < 0.00; respectively) of LV among all groups. No correlation was found between papillary muscle strains and effective orifice area (EOA) in both groups of severe mitral regurgitation. CONCLUSIONS:: Measuring papillary muscle longitudinal strain by the free strain method is practical and applicable. Papillary muscle dysfunction plays a small role in severe MR due to degenerative or functional causes and papillary muscle functions in general seems to follow left ventricular function. PPM is the most affected PM in severe mitral regurgitation in both groups of DMR and FMR. FUNDAMENTO:: O papel da função do músculo papilar na regurgitação mitral grave com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo preservada e reduzida e o método de escolha para avaliar PM ainda são objetos de controvérsia. OBJETIVOS:: Avaliar e comparar a função dos músculos papilares entre pacientes com insuficiência mitral funcional e degenerativa pelo método free strain. MÉTODOS:: 64 pacientes com insuficiência mitral grave - 39 pacientes com insuficiência mitral degenerativa grave (grupo IMD) e 25 com insuficiência mitral funcional grave (grupo IMF) - e 30 indivíduos controle (grupo controle) foram incluídos no estudo. A função dos músculos papilares foi avaliada pelo método free strain a partir de imagens apicais quatro-câmaras do músculo papilar anterolateral (MPA) e imagens apicais três-câmaras do músculo papilar posteromedial (MPP). Strains circunferenciais e longitudinais globais do ventrículo esquerdo foram avaliados por meio de imagens bidimensionais a partir do rastreamento de conjunto de pontos de cinza (speckle tracking). RESULTADOS:: O strain longitudinal global do ventrículo esquerdo (grupo IMD, -17 [-14,2/-20]; grupo IMF, -9 [-7/-10,7]; grupo controle, -20 [-18/-21] p < 0,001); strain circunferencial global do ventrículo esquerdo (grupo IMD, -20 [-14,5/-22,7]; grupo IMF, -10 [-7/-12]; grupo controle, -23 [-21/-27,5] p < 0,001) e strains de músculos papilares (MPP; grupo IMD, -30,5 [-24/-46,7]; grupo IMF, -18 [-12/-30]; grupo controle; -43 [-34,5/-39,5] p < 0,001; MPA; grupo IMD, (-35 [-23,5/-43]; grupo IMF, -20 [-13,5/-26]; grupo controle, -40 [-32,5/-48] p < 0,001) mostraram-se significativamente diferentes nos grupos. MPA e MPP mostraram-se altamente correlacionados com a FEVE (p < 0,001, p < 0,00; respectivamente), SLG (p < 0,001, p < 0,001; respectivamente) e SCG (p < 0,001, p < 0,001; respectivamente) do VE entre todos os grupos. Não foi encontrada correlação entre os strains de músculos papilares e área eficaz do orifício (AEO) nos grupos de insuficiência mitral grave. CONCLUSÕES:: A medição do strain longitudinal de músculos papilares pelo método free strain é prática e aplicável. A disfunção dos músculos papilares tem um papel pequeno em IM grave devido a causas degenerativas e funcionais, e a função dos músculos papilares, em general, parece seguir a função ventricular esquerda. O MPP é o MP mais afetado na insuficiência mitral em ambos os grupos, IMD e IMF.

Papillary Muscle Free Strain in Patients with Severe Degenerative and Functional Mitral Regurgitation / Free Strains de Músculos Papilares em Pacientes com Insuficiência Mitral Funcional e Degenerativa Grave

Abstract Fundamento: The role of papillary muscle function in severe mitral regurgitation with preserved and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and the method of choice to evaluate PM have still been the subjects of controversy. Objectives: To evaluate and compare papillary muscle function in and between patients with severe degenerative and functional mitral regurgitation by using the free strain method. Methods: 64 patients with severe mitral regurgitation - 39 patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR group) and 25 patients with severe functional mitral regurgitation (FMR group) - and 30 control subjects (control group) were included in the study. Papillary muscle function was evaluated through the free strain method from apical four chamber images of the anterolateral papillary muscle (APM) and from apical three chamber images of the posteromedial papillary muscle (PPM). Global left ventricular longitudinal and circumferential strains were evaluated by applying 2D speckle tracking imaging. Results: Global left ventricular longitudinal strain (DMR group, -17 [-14.2/-20]; FMR group, -9 [-7/-10.7]; control group, -20 [-18/-21] p < 0.001), global left ventricular circumferential strain (DMR group, -20 [-14.5/-22.7]; FMR group, -10 [-7/-12]; control group, -23 [-21/-27.5] p < 0.001) and papillary musle strains (PPMS; DMR group, -30.5 [-24/-46.7]; FMR group, -18 [-12/-30]; control group; -43 [-34.5/-39.5] p < 0.001; APMS; DMR group, (-35 [-23.5/-43]; FMR group, -20 [-13.5/-26]; control group, -40 [-32.5/-48] p < 0.001) were significantly different among all groups. APMS and PPMS were highly correlated with LVEF (p < 0.001, p < 0.001; respectively), GLS (p < 0.001, p < 0.001; respectively) and GCS (p < 0.001, p < 0.00; respectively) of LV among all groups. No correlation was found between papillary muscle strains and effective orifice area (EOA) in both groups of severe mitral regurgitation. Conclusions: Measuring papillary muscle longitudinal strain by the free strain method is practical and applicable. Papillary muscle dysfunction plays a small role in severe MR due to degenerative or functional causes and papillary muscle functions in general seems to follow left ventricular function. PPM is the most affected PM in severe mitral regurgitation in both groups of DMR and FMR.

Resumo Fundamento: O papel da função do músculo papilar na regurgitação mitral grave com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo preservada e reduzida e o método de escolha para avaliar PM ainda são objetos de controvérsia. Objetivos: Avaliar e comparar a função dos músculos papilares entre pacientes com insuficiência mitral funcional e degenerativa pelo método free strain. Métodos: 64 pacientes com insuficiência mitral grave - 39 pacientes com insuficiência mitral degenerativa grave (grupo IMD) e 25 com insuficiência mitral funcional grave (grupo IMF) - e 30 indivíduos controle (grupo controle) foram incluídos no estudo. A função dos músculos papilares foi avaliada pelo método free strain a partir de imagens apicais quatro-câmaras do músculo papilar anterolateral (MPA) e imagens apicais três-câmaras do músculo papilar posteromedial (MPP). Strains circunferenciais e longitudinais globais do ventrículo esquerdo foram avaliados por meio de imagens bidimensionais a partir do rastreamento de conjunto de pontos de cinza (speckle tracking). Resultados: O strain longitudinal global do ventrículo esquerdo (grupo IMD, -17 [-14,2/-20]; grupo IMF, -9 [-7/-10,7]; grupo controle, -20 [-18/-21] p < 0,001); strain circunferencial global do ventrículo esquerdo (grupo IMD, -20 [-14,5/-22,7]; grupo IMF, -10 [-7/-12]; grupo controle, -23 [-21/-27,5] p < 0,001) e strains de músculos papilares (MPP; grupo IMD, -30,5 [-24/-46,7]; grupo IMF, -18 [-12/-30]; grupo controle; -43 [-34,5/-39,5] p < 0,001; MPA; grupo IMD, (-35 [-23,5/-43]; grupo IMF, -20 [-13,5/-26]; grupo controle, -40 [-32,5/-48] p < 0,001) mostraram-se significativamente diferentes nos grupos. MPA e MPP mostraram-se altamente correlacionados com a FEVE (p < 0,001, p < 0,00; respectivamente), SLG (p < 0,001, p < 0,001; respectivamente) e SCG (p < 0,001, p < 0,001; respectivamente) do VE entre todos os grupos. Não foi encontrada correlação entre os strains de músculos papilares e área eficaz do orifício (AEO) nos grupos de insuficiência mitral grave. Conclusões: A medição do strain longitudinal de músculos papilares pelo método free strain é prática e aplicável. A disfunção dos músculos papilares tem um papel pequeno em IM grave devido a causas degenerativas e funcionais, e a função dos músculos papilares, em general, parece seguir a função ventricular esquerda. O MPP é o MP mais afetado na insuficiência mitral em ambos os grupos, IMD e IMF.