The Promise of Cilnidipine in Hypertension with Comorbidities: National Consensus Statement: National Consensus Group Comprises Cardiologists, Nephrologists, and Diabetologists from India in a National Meet at New Delhi held on 22nd May 2022.

The rapidly increasing burden of hypertension is responsible for premature deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD), renal disease, and stroke, with a tremendous public health and financial burden. Hypertension detection, treatment, and control vary worldwide; it is still low, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). High blood pressure (BP) and CVD risk have a strong, linear, and independent association. They contribute to alarming numbers of all-cause and CVD deaths. A major culprit for increased hypertension is sympathetic activity, and further complications of hypertension are heart failure, ischemic heart disease (IHD), stroke, and renal failure. Now, antihypertensive interventions have emerged as a global public health priority to reduce BP-related morbidity and mortality. Calcium channel blockers (CCB) are highly effective vasodilators. and the most common drugs used for managing hypertension and CVD. Cilnidipine, with both L- and N-type calcium channel blocking activity, is a promising 4th generation CCB. It causes vasodilation via L-type calcium channel blockade and inhibits the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) via N-type calcium channel blockade. Cilnidipine, which acts as a dual L/N-type CCB, is linked to a reduced occurrence of pedal edema compared to amlodipine, which solely blocks L-type calcium channels. The antihypertensive properties of cilnidipine are very substantial, with low BP variability and long-acting properties. It is beneficial for hypertensive patients to deal with morning hypertension and for patients with abnormal nocturnal BP due to exaggerated sympathetic nerve activation. Besides its BP-lowering effect, it also exhibits organ protection via sympathetic nerve inhibition and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibition; it controls heart rate and proteinuria. Reno-protective, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective effects of cilnidipine have been well-documented and demonstrated.

Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor Therapy and Cardiac Remodeling in Heart Failure: Consensus Statement from India.

Adverse cardiac remodeling refers to progressive structural and functional modifications in the heart because of increased wall stress in the myocardium, loss of viable myocardium, and neurohormonal stimulation. The guideline-directed medical therapy for Heart failure (HF) includes Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) (sacubitril/valsartan), ß-blockers, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA). ARNI is under-prescribed in India despite its attractive safety and efficacy profile. Therefore, the consensus discusses objectives and topics related to ARNI in the management of cardiac remodeling, and experts shared their views on the early timely intervention of effective dosage of ARNI to improve the diagnosis and enhance mortality and morbidity benefits in cardiac reverse remodeling (CRR).

The Power and Promise of Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitor (ARNI) in Heart Failure Management: National Consensus Statement.

;Heart failure (HF) is a huge global public health task due to morbidity, mortality, disturbed quality of life, and major economic burden. It is an area of active research and newer treatment strategies are evolving. Recently angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), a class of drugs (the first agent in this class, Sacubitril-Valsartan), reduces cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in chronic HF patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Positive therapeutic effects have led to a decrease in cardiovascular mortality and HF hospitalizations (HFH), with a favorable safety profile, and have been documented in several clinical studies with an unquestionable survival benefit with ARNI, Sacubitril-Valsartan. This consensus statement of the Indian group of experts in cardiology, nephrology, and diabetes provides a comprehensive review of the power and promise of ARNI in HF management and an evidence-based appraisal of the use of ARNI as an essential treatment strategy for HF patients in clinical practice. Consensus in this review favors an early utility of Sacubitril-Valsartan in patients with HF with reduced EF (HFrEF), regardless of the previous therapy being given. A lower rate of hospitalizations for HF with Sacubitril-Valsartan in HF patients with preserved EF who are phenotypically heterogeneous suggests possible benefits of ARNI in patients having 40-50% of LVEF, frequent subtle systolic dysfunction, and higher hospitalization risk.

Role of Iron Therapy in Heart Failure: A Consensus Statement from India.

Iron deficiency (ID) with or without anemia is frequently observed in patients with heart failure (HF). Uncorrected ID is associated with higher hospitalization and mortality in patients with acute HF (AHF) and chronic HF (CHF). Hence, in addition to chronic renal insufficiency, anemia, and diabetes, ID appears as a novel comorbidity and a treatment target of CHF. Intravenous (IV) ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) reduces the hospitalization risk due to HF worsening and improves functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) in HF patients. The current consensus document provides criteria, an expert opinion on the diagnosis of ID in HF, patient profiles for IV FCM, and correct administration and monitoring of such patients.

Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Congenital Left Ventricular Outflow Obstruction.

Congenital left ventricular outflow obstruction represents a multilevel obstruction with several morphological forms. It can involve the subvalvular, valvar, or supravalvular portion of the aortic valve complex, and may coexist. Computed tomography (CT) plays an important supplementary role in the evaluation of patients with congenital LVOT obstruction. Unlike transthoracic echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, it is not bounded by a small acoustic window, needs for anaesthesia or sedation, and metallic devices. Current generations of CT scanners with excellent spatial and temporal resolution, high pitch scanning, wide detector system, dose reduction algorithms, and advanced 3-dimensional postprocessing techniques provide a high-quality alternative to CMR or diagnostic cardiac catheterization. Radiologists performing CT in young children should be familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of CT and with the typical morphological imaging features of congenital left ventricular outflow obstruction.

Coronary Artery Calcium Data and Reporting System (CAC-DRS): A Primer.

The Coronary Artery Calcium Data and Reporting System (CAC-DRS) is a standardized reporting method for calcium scoring on computed tomography. CAC-DRS is applied on a per-patient basis and represents the total calcium score with the number of vessels involved. There are 4 risk categories ranging from CAC-DRS 0 to CAC-DRS 3. CAC-DRS also provides risk prediction and treatment recommendations for each category. The main strengths of CAC-DRS include a detailed and meaningful representation of CAC, improved communication between physicians, risk stratification, appropriate treatment recommendations, and uniform data collection, which provides a framework for education and research. The major limitations of CAC-DRS include a few missing components, an overly simple visual approach without any standard reference, and treatment recommendations lacking a basis in clinical trials. This consistent yet straightforward method has the potential to systemize CAC scoring in both gated and non-gated scans.

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance in Rheumatology to Detect Cardiac Involvement Since Early and Pre-clinical Stages of the Autoimmune Diseases: A Narrative Review.

Autoimmune diseases (ADs) encompass multisystem disorders, and cardiovascular involvement is a well-known feature of autoimmune and inflammatory rheumatic conditions. Unfortunately, subclinical and early cardiovascular involvement remains clinically silent and often undetected, despite its well-documented impact on patient management and prognostication with an even more significant effect on severe and future MACE events as the disease progresses. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), today, commands a unique position of supremacy versus its competition in cardiac assessment and is the gold standard for the non-invasive evaluation of cardiac function, structure, morphology, tissue characterization, and flow with the capability of evaluating biventricular function; myocardium for edema, ischemia, fibrosis, infarction; valves for thickening, large masses; pericardial inflammation, pericardial effusions, and tamponade; cardiac cavities for thrombosis; conduction related abnormalities and features of microvascular and large vessel involvement. As precise and early detection of cardiovascular involvement plays a critical role in improving the outcome of rheumatic and autoimmune conditions, our review aims to highlight the evolving role of CMR in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic sclerosis (SSc), limited sclerosis (LSc), adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD), polymyositis (PM), dermatomyositis (DM), eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) (formerly Churg-Strauss syndrome), and DRESS syndrome (DS). It draws attention to the need for concerted, systematic global interdisciplinary research to improve future outcomes in autoimmune-related rheumatic conditions with multiorgan, multisystem, and cardiovascular involvement.

Role of CT in the Pre- and Postoperative Assessment of Conotruncal Anomalies.

Conotruncal anomalies, also referred to as outflow tract anomalies, are congenital heart defects that result from abnormal septation of the great vessels' outflow tracts. The major conotruncal anomalies include tetralogy of Fallot, double-outlet right ventricle, transposition of the great arteries, truncus arteriosus, and interrupted aortic arch. Other defects, which are often components of the major anomalies, include pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect, pulmonary valve agenesis, aortopulmonary window, and double-outlet left ventricle. CT has emerged as a robust diagnostic tool in preoperative and postoperative assessment of various congenital heart diseases, including conotruncal anomalies. The data provided with multidetector CT imaging are useful for treatment planning and follow-up monitoring after surgery or intervention. Unlike echocardiography and MRI, CT is not limited by a small acoustic window, metallic devices, and need for sedation or anesthesia. Major advances in CT equipment, including dual-source scanners, wide-detector scanners, high-efficiency detectors, higher x-ray tube power, automatic tube current modulation, and advanced three-dimensional postprocessing, provide a low-risk, high-quality alternative to diagnostic cardiac catheterization and MRI. This review explores the various conotruncal anomalies and elucidates the role of CT imaging in their pre- and postoperative assessment. Keywords: CT, CT Angiography, Stents, Pediatrics © RSNA, 2022.

Worldwide Disparities in Recovery of Cardiac Testing 1 Year Into COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: The extent to which health care systems have adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic to provide necessary cardiac diagnostic services is unknown. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the impact of the pandemic on cardiac testing practices, volumes and types of diagnostic services, and perceived psychological stress to health care providers worldwide. METHODS: The International Atomic Energy Agency conducted a worldwide survey assessing alterations from baseline in cardiovascular diagnostic care at the pandemic's onset and 1 year later. Multivariable regression was used to determine factors associated with procedure volume recovery. RESULTS: Surveys were submitted from 669 centers in 107 countries. Worldwide reduction in cardiac procedure volumes of 64% from March 2019 to April 2020 recovered by April 2021 in high- and upper middle-income countries (recovery rates of 108% and 99%) but remained depressed in lower middle- and low-income countries (46% and 30% recovery). Although stress testing was used 12% less frequently in 2021 than in 2019, coronary computed tomographic angiography was used 14% more, a trend also seen for other advanced cardiac imaging modalities (positron emission tomography and magnetic resonance; 22%-25% increases). Pandemic-related psychological stress was estimated to have affected nearly 40% of staff, impacting patient care at 78% of sites. In multivariable regression, only lower-income status and physicians' psychological stress were significant in predicting recovery of cardiac testing. CONCLUSIONS: Cardiac diagnostic testing has yet to recover to prepandemic levels in lower-income countries. Worldwide, the decrease in standard stress testing is offset by greater use of advanced cardiac imaging modalities. Pandemic-related psychological stress among providers is widespread and associated with poor recovery of cardiac testing.

Evidence-based cardiovascular magnetic resonance cost-effectiveness calculator for the detection of significant coronary artery disease.

BACKGROUND: Although prior reports have evaluated the clinical and cost impacts of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) for low-to-intermediate-risk patients with suspected significant coronary artery disease (CAD), the cost-effectiveness of CMR compared to relevant comparators remains poorly understood. We aimed to summarize the cost-effectiveness literature on CMR for CAD and create a cost-effectiveness calculator, useable worldwide, to approximate the cost-per-quality-adjusted-life-year (QALY) of CMR and relevant comparators with context-specific patient-level and system-level inputs. METHODS: We searched the Tufts Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Registry and PubMed for cost-per-QALY or cost-per-life-year-saved studies of CMR to detect significant CAD. We also developed a linear regression meta-model (CMR Cost-Effectiveness Calculator) based on a larger CMR cost-effectiveness simulation model that can approximate CMR lifetime discount cost, QALY, and cost effectiveness compared to relevant comparators [such as single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA)] or invasive coronary angiography. RESULTS: CMR was cost-effective for evaluation of significant CAD (either health-improving and cost saving or having a cost-per-QALY or cost-per-life-year result lower than the cost-effectiveness threshold) versus its relevant comparator in 10 out of 15 studies, with 3 studies reporting uncertain cost effectiveness, and 2 studies showing CCTA was optimal. Our cost-effectiveness calculator showed that CCTA was not cost-effective in the US compared to CMR when the most recent publications on imaging performance were included in the model. CONCLUSIONS: Based on current world-wide evidence in the literature, CMR usually represents a cost-effective option compared to relevant comparators to assess for significant CAD.

Coronary Artery Disease Reporting and Data System: A Comprehensive Review.

The Coronary Artery Disease Reporting and Data System (CAD-RADS) is a standardized reporting method for coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). It summarizes the findings of CCTA in 6 categories ranging from CAD-RADS 0 (complete absence of coronary artery disease) to CAD-RADS 5 (total occlusion of at least one vessel). It is applied on per patient basis for the highest grade of the stenotic lesion. The CAD-RADS also provides category-specific treatment recommendations, helping patient management. The main objectives of the CAD-RADS are to improve the consistency in reporting, facilitate the communication between interpreting and referring clinicians, recommend the best course of patient management, and produce consistent data for quality improvement, research and education. However, CAD-RADS has many limitations, resulting into the misclassification of the observed findings, misinterpretation of the final category, and misguidance for the treatment based upon the single score. In this review, the authors discuss the CAD-RADS categories and modifiers, along with the strengths and limitations of this new classification system.

Abernethy malformation: A comprehensive review.

Abernethy malformation is a rare condition in which portomesenteric blood bypasses the liver and drains into the systemic vein through a partial or complete shunt. It is categorised into two types on the basis of the shunt pattern between the portal vein and systemic vein. Abernethy malformation is associated with multiple congenital anomalies and acquired complications. A detailed understanding of anatomy and embryology is a prerequisite to interpret the imaging findings. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance angiography can delineate the shunt anatomy and evaluate the concomitant malformations. It is essential to differentiate Abernethy malformation from intrahepatic portosystemic shunts and acquired extrahepatic portosystemic shunts. Mild metabolic abnormalities are treated with dietary modifications and medical therapy. Definitive treatment is done in symptomatic patients. Generally, type I Abernethy patients undergo liver transplantation, and type II undergo shunt occlusion by surgery or transcatheter coiling.

Solitary Fibrous Tumor of Internal Jugular Vein: An Extremely Rare Entity with Review of Literature.

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is an unusual spindle cell neoplasm that commonly arises from pleura. In the last decade, multiple case reports have described its diverse occurrence in extrapleural locations involving almost every anatomic site. Intravascular SFT is extremely rare and has been reported in inferior vena cava and renal vein only, to the best of our knowledge. SFT of the internal jugular vein has never been reported. We present a case of a SFT arising from internal jugular vein with extraluminal exophytic component extending into supraclavicular fossa. It should also be considered as a differential diagnosis for neoplasm arising from the internal jugular vein.

Isolated right subclavian artery with interrupted aortic arch, ventricular septal defect and bilateral patent ductus arteriosus: a rare congenital anomaly.

Isolation of the left subclavian artery or its anomalous origin from the pulmonary artery has been documented in several cases, especially in association with a right-sided aortic arch. However, similar anomaly involving the right subclavian artery has been less frequently reported. Isolated right subclavian artery in association with interrupted aortic arch (IAA) is extremely rare, and only three cases have been reported so far. Here, we have presented yet another case of isolated right subclavian artery associated with ventricular septal defect, type B IAA and bilateral patent ductus arteriosus.

Role of Computed Tomography in Pre- and Postoperative Evaluation of a Double-Outlet Right Ventricle.

Double-outlet right ventricle (DORV) is a type of ventriculoarterial connection in which both great arteries arise entirely or predominantly from the right ventricle. The morphology of DORV is characterized by a ventricular septal defect (location and relationship with the semilunar valve); bilateral coni and aortomitral continuity; the presence or absence of outflow tract obstruction; tricuspid-pulmonary annular distance; and associated cardiac anomalies. The surgical approach varies with the type of DORV and is based on multiple variables. Computed tomography (CT) is a robust diagnostic tool for the preoperative and postoperative assessment of DORV. Unlike echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CT imaging is not limited by small acoustic window, need for anaesthesia and can be used in patients with metallic implants. Current generations CT scanners with high spatial and temporal resolution, wide detectors, high-pitch scanning mode, dose-reduction algorithms, and advanced three-dimensional post-processing tools provide a low-risk, high-quality alternative to diagnostic cardiac catheterization or MRI, and have been increasingly utilized in nearly every type of congenital heart defect, including DORV.

Computed Tomography in the Evaluation of Fontan Circulation.

The Fontan procedure is a well-established surgical technique to improve survival in patients with univentricular heart disease. The procedure reroutes the systemic venous flow to the lungs, bypassing the right ventricle. The originally proposed method involved direct anastomosis of the right atrium to the pulmonary artery. Since then, several modifications have been made in the original technique leading to the modern Fontan, or total cavopulmonary connection. The modern Fontan technique has shown improved surgical outcomes and increased life expectancy in patients with univentricular disease. Due to the increased survival of these patients, long-term complications are becoming more prevalent. Common complications of Fontan procedure include right atrial dilatation and thrombosis; conduit stenosis and thrombosis; right-to-left and left-to-right shunts; hepatic congestion and cirrhosis; and lymphovascular. Computed tomography (CT) can reliably depict the normal Fontan anatomy and various postoperative complications. A fundamental understanding of the techniques of CT, including imaging protocols and common interpretive pitfalls, allows targeted imaging and precise reporting of clinically significant findings. Radiologists should be familiar with the multiple stages of single-ventricle palliation, normal Fontan anatomy, pathophysiology, and imaging features of common Fontan-related complications.

Role of Computed Tomography in Postoperative Follow-up of Arterial Switch Operation.

An arterial switch operation (ASO) is the standard treatment for infants and children born with D-loop transposition of the great arteries. During the ASO, the great vessels are transected from the native roots, switched and anastomosed with the opposite roots. This is accompanied by the relocation of the pulmonary artery anterior to the aorta by using the LeCompte maneuver and the translocation of coronary arteries to the neo-aorta. ASO has led to improved overall survival, and postoperative mortality is rare. Despite the improved outcomes, several postoperative sequelae may occur, and therefore patients require long-term follow-up. Computed tomography (CT) has emerged as a robust imaging modality in pre and postoperative evaluation of a variety of congenital heart disorders including ASO. Unlike echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance, CT is not hindered by a poor acoustic window, metallic devices or the need for sedation or general anesthesia. CT with advanced three-dimensional postprocessing techniques, high pitch scanning, wider detector system, electrocardiogram-dependent modulation and dose-reduction strategies is invaluable in assessing the postoperative complications after ASO.

International Impact of COVID-19 on the Diagnosis of Heart Disease.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has adversely affected diagnosis and treatment of noncommunicable diseases. Its effects on delivery of diagnostic care for cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of death worldwide, have not been quantified. OBJECTIVES: The study sought to assess COVID-19's impact on global cardiovascular diagnostic procedural volumes and safety practices. METHODS: The International Atomic Energy Agency conducted a worldwide survey assessing alterations in cardiovascular procedure volumes and safety practices resulting from COVID-19. Noninvasive and invasive cardiac testing volumes were obtained from participating sites for March and April 2020 and compared with those from March 2019. Availability of personal protective equipment and pandemic-related testing practice changes were ascertained. RESULTS: Surveys were submitted from 909 inpatient and outpatient centers performing cardiac diagnostic procedures, in 108 countries. Procedure volumes decreased 42% from March 2019 to March 2020, and 64% from March 2019 to April 2020. Transthoracic echocardiography decreased by 59%, transesophageal echocardiography 76%, and stress tests 78%, which varied between stress modalities. Coronary angiography (invasive or computed tomography) decreased 55% (p < 0.001 for each procedure). In multivariable regression, significantly greater reduction in procedures occurred for centers in countries with lower gross domestic product. Location in a low-income and lower-middle-income country was associated with an additional 22% reduction in cardiac procedures and less availability of personal protective equipment and telehealth. CONCLUSIONS: COVID-19 was associated with a significant and abrupt reduction in cardiovascular diagnostic testing across the globe, especially affecting the world's economically challenged. Further study of cardiovascular outcomes and COVID-19-related changes in care delivery is warranted.

Role of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Hypocalcemia-Induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Pediatric Population.

Background Hypocalcemia is a rare reversible cause of dilated cardiomyopathy in pediatric population. Myocarditis is another more frequent cause of cardiomyopathy with overlapping presenting features. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) is a vital modality capable of tissue characterization for the evaluation of cardiomyopathy. The present study is the first attempt to determine if any specific characteristics on CMR exist in patients with hypocalcemic dilated cardiomyopathy. Methods A retrospective analysis of 10 cases of hypocalcemic dilated cardiomyopathy (August 2012-August 2019), among which CMRI of nine patients were analyzed. Patients were categorized in to three categories; category 1 defined as absence of edema and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), category 2 having edema only, and category 3 with presence of both edema and LGE. A diagnosis of myocarditis was considered if both edema and LGE were present. Results The mean age of the cohort was 5.5 ± 3.3 months. The mean ejection fraction of the cohort was 20.5 ± 6.85% that improved significantly to 35.22 ± 9.3% at the time of discharge. Five of nine patients had no edema or LGE (category 1), whereas two patients each were categorized into category 2 and 3. All cases in category 1 had normalized ventricular function on follow-up. One patient in category 2 had normal ejection fraction and one was lost to follow-up. Out of the two patients in category 3, there was one mortality and another was lost to follow-up. Of the six patients at follow-up (19 ± 11.0 months), the mean left ventricle ejection fraction improved to 56.5 ± 6.1%. Conclusion Hypocalcemic dilated cardiomyopathy has a favorable outcome on rapid initiation of treatment. CMR can be utilized for further prognostication of these patients. Absence of edema and LGE predicts a good outcome, whereas presence of LGE and/or edema either indicates a worse prognosis or an underlying coexistent myocarditis warranting an early myocardial biopsy.

Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Cardiovascular Testing in Asia: The IAEA INCAPS-COVID Study.

Background: The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly affected management of cardiovascular disease around the world. The effect of the pandemic on volume of cardiovascular diagnostic procedures is not known. Objectives: This study sought to evaluate the effects of the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic on cardiovascular diagnostic procedures and safety practices in Asia. Methods: The International Atomic Energy Agency conducted a worldwide survey to assess changes in cardiovascular procedure volume and safety practices caused by COVID-19. Testing volumes were reported for March 2020 and April 2020 and were compared to those from March 2019. Data from 180 centers across 33 Asian countries were grouped into 4 subregions for comparison. Results: Procedure volumes decreased by 47% from March 2019 to March 2020, showing recovery from March 2020 to April 2020 in Eastern Asia, particularly in China. The majority of centers cancelled outpatient activities and increased time per study. Practice changes included implementing physical distancing and restricting visitors. Although COVID testing was not commonly performed, it was conducted in one-third of facilities in Eastern Asia. The most severe reductions in procedure volumes were observed in lower-income countries, where volumes decreased 81% from March 2019 to April 2020. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic in Asia caused significant reductions in cardiovascular diagnostic procedures, particularly in low-income countries. Further studies on effects of COVID-19 on cardiovascular outcomes and changes in care delivery are warranted.