Catheter navigation by intracardiac echocardiography enables zero-fluoroscopy linear lesion formation and bidirectional cavotricuspid isthmus block in patients with typical atrial flutter.

INTRODUCTION: One of the most helpful aspects of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) implementation in electrophysiological studies (EPS) is the real-time visualisation of catheters and cardiac structures. In this prospective study, we investigated ICE-guided zero-fluoroscopy catheter navigation during radiofrequency (RF) ablation of the cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI) in patients with typical atrial flutter (AFL). METHODS AND RESULTS: Thirty consecutive patients (mean age 72.9 ± 11.4 years, 23 male) with ongoing (n = 23) or recent CTI-dependent AFL underwent an EPS, solely utilizing ICE for catheter navigation. Zero-fluoroscopy EPS could be successfully accomplished in all patients. Mean EPS duration was 41.4 ± 19.9 min, and mean ablation procedure duration was 20.8 ± 17.1 min. RF ablation was applied for 6.0 ± 3.1 min (50W, irrigated RF ablation). Echocardiographic parameters, such as CTI length, prominence of the Eustachian ridge (ER), and depth of the CTI pouch on the ablation plane, were assessed to analyse their correlation with EPS- or ablation procedure duration. The CTI pouch was shallower in patients with an ablation procedure duration above the median (4.8 ± 1.1 mm vs. 6.4 ± 0.9 mm, p = 0.04), suggesting a more lateral ablation plane in these patients, where the CTI musculature is stronger. CTI length or ER prominence above the respective median did not correlate with longer EPS duration. CONCLUSIONS: Zero-fluoroscopy CTI ablation guided solely by intracardiac echocardiography in patients with CTI-dependent AFL is feasible and safe. ICE visualisation may help to localise the optimal ablation plane, detect and correct poor tissue contact of the catheter tip, and recognise early potential complications during the ablation procedure.

An evidence map of systematic reviews on models of outpatient care for patients with chronic heart diseases.

BACKGROUND: Chronic heart disease affects millions of people worldwide and the prevalence is increasing. By now, there is an extensive literature on outpatient care of people with chronic heart disease. We aimed to systematically identify and map models of outpatient care for people with chronic heart disease in terms of the interventions included and the outcomes measured and reported to determine areas in need of further research. METHODS: We created an evidence map of published systematic reviews. PubMed, Cochrane Library (Wiley), Web of Science, and Scopus were searched to identify all relevant articles from January 2000 to June 2021 published in English or German language. From each included systematic review, we abstracted search dates, number and type of included studies, objectives, populations, interventions, and outcomes. Models of care were categorised into six approaches: cardiac rehabilitation, chronic disease management, home-based care, outpatient clinic, telemedicine, and transitional care. Intervention categories were developed inductively. Outcomes were mapped onto the taxonomy developed by the COMET initiative. RESULTS: The systematic literature search identified 8043 potentially relevant publications on models of outpatient care for patients with chronic heart diseases. Finally, 47 systematic reviews met the inclusion criteria, covering 1206 primary studies (including double counting). We identified six different models of care and described which interventions were used and what outcomes were included to measure their effectiveness. Education-related and telemedicine interventions were described in more than 50% of the models of outpatient care. The most frequently used outcome domains were death and life impact. CONCLUSION: Evidence on outpatient care for people with chronic heart diseases is broad. However, comparability is limited due to differences in interventions and outcome measures. Outpatient care for people with coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation is a less well-studied area compared to heart failure. Our evidence mapping demonstrates the need for a core outcome set and further studies to examine the effects of models of outpatient care or different interventions with adjusted outcome parameters. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42020166330).

REACT DX registry: Real world REACTion to atrial high rate episodes detected in implantable cardioverter-defibrillator recipients with a DX lead.

BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with significant morbidity and is predicted by atrial high rate events. The early detection of AF is paramount to timely interventions to reduce the morbidity of AF. The DX ICD system combined with Home Monitoring® allows for continuous atrial rhythm monitoring without the need for a dedicated atrial lead. OBJECTIVE: To establish the reaction to and timing of reactions to the detection of atrial high rate episodes (AHRE). METHODS: A prospective cohort of DX ICD systems was followed up and the response to AHREs was collected and evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 234 patients were enrolled; an AHRE ⩾ 6 min was detected in 13.7% of patients (n= 32) within a mean follow-up duration of 16 months. A high rate of oral anticoagulation (OAC) prescription was seen with the detection of AHREs in patients with a not-low risk CHA2DS2-VASc score. There was a delay in this prescription highlighting the potential to improve the timeliness of patient care in this group of patients. CONCLUSIONS: The DX ICD system provides rapid and ongoing atrial rhythm monitoring such that physicians are rapidly aware of AHRE without the need for a dedicated atrial lead, but local protocols are needed to improve the response time of anti-coagulation prescription.

An Intra-Cycle Optimal Control Framework for Ventricular Assist Devices Based on Atrioventricular Plane Displacement Modeling.

A promising treatment for congestive heart failure is the implementation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) that works as a mechanical pump. Modern LVADs work with adjustable constant rotor speed and provide therefore continuous blood flow; however, recently undertaken efforts try to mimic pulsatile blood flow by oscillating the pump speed. This work proposes an algorithmic framework to construct and evaluate optimal pump speed policies with respect to generic objectives. We use a model that captures the atrioventricular plane displacement, which is a physiological indicator for heart failure. We employ mathematical optimization to adapt this model to patient specific data and to find optimal pump speed policies with respect to ventricular unloading and aortic valve opening. To this end, we reformulate the cardiovascular dynamics into a switched system and thereby reduce nonlinearities. We consider system switches that stem from varying the constant pump speed and that are state dependent such as valve opening or closing. As a proof of concept study, we personalize the model to a selected patient with respect to ventricular pressure. The model fitting results in a root-mean-square deviation of about 6 mmHg. The optimization that considers aortic valve opening and ventricular unloading results in speed modulation akin to counterpulsation. These in silico findings demonstrate the potential of personalized hemodynamical optimization for the LVAD therapy.

Predictors and prognosis of right ventricular function in pulmonary hypertension due to heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

AIMS: Failure of right ventricular (RV) function worsens outcome in pulmonary hypertension (PH). The adaptation of RV contractility to afterload, the RV-pulmonary artery (PA) coupling, is defined by the ratio of RV end-systolic to PA elastances (Ees/Ea). Using pressure-volume loop (PV-L) technique we aimed to identify an Ees/Ea cut-off predictive for overall survival and to assess hemodynamic and morphologic conditions for adapted RV function in secondary PH due to heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFREF). METHODS AND RESULTS: This post hoc analysis is based on 112 patients of the prospective Magdeburger Resynchronization Responder Trial. All patients underwent right and left heart echocardiography and a baseline PV-L and RV catheter measurement. A subgroup of patients (n = 50) without a pre-implanted cardiac device underwent magnetic resonance imaging at baseline. The analysis revealed that 0.68 is an optimal Ees/Ea cut-off (area under the curve: 0.697, P < 0.001) predictive for overall survival (median follow up = 4.7 years, Ees/Ea ≥ 0.68 vs. <0.68, log-rank 8.9, P = 0.003). In patients with PH (n = 76, 68%) multivariate Cox regression demonstrated the independent prognostic value of RV-Ees/Ea in PH patients (hazard ratio 0.2, P < 0.038). Patients without PH (n = 36, 32%) and those with PH but RV-Ees/Ea ≥ 0.68 showed comparable RV-Ees/Ea ratios (0.88 vs. 0.9, P = 0.39), RV size/function, and survival. In contrast, secondary PH with RV-PA coupling ratio Ees/Ea < 0.68 corresponded extremely close to cut-off values that define RV dilatation/remodelling (RV end-diastolic volume >160 mL, RV-mass/volume-ratio ≤0.37 g/mL) and dysfunction (right ventricular ejection fraction <38%, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion <16 mm, fractional area change <42%, and stroke-volume/end-systolic volume ratio <0.59) and is associated with a dramatically increased short and medium-term all-cause mortality. Independent predictors of prognostically unfavourable RV-PA coupling (Ees/Ea < 0.68) in secondary PH were a pre-existent dilated RV [end-diastolic volume >171 mL, odds ratio (OR) 0.96, P = 0.021], high pulsatile load (PA compliance <2.3 mL/mmHg, OR 8.6, P = 0.003), and advanced systolic left heart failure (left ventricular ejection fraction <30%, OR 1.23, P = 0.028). CONCLUSIONS: The RV-PA coupling ratio Ees/Ea predicts overall survival in PH due to HFREF and is mainly affected by pulsatile load, RV remodelling, and left ventricular dysfunction. Prognostically favourable coupling (RV-Ees/Ea ≥ 0.68) in PH was associated with preserved RV size/function and mid-term survival, comparable with HFREF without PH.

Pressure-volume loop validation of TAPSE/PASP for right ventricular arterial coupling in heart failure with pulmonary hypertension.

AIMS: The aim of this study was to validate the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion/systolic pulmonary artery (PA) pressure (TAPSE/PASP) ratio with the invasive pressure-volume (PV) loop-derived end-systolic right ventricular (RV) elastance/PA elastance (Ees/Ea) ratio in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFREF) and secondary pulmonary hypertension (PH). METHODS AND RESULTS: The relationship of TAPSE and TAPSE/PASP with RV-PV loop (single-beat)-derived contractility Ees, afterload Ea, and Ees/Ea was assessed in 110 patients with HFREF with and without secondary PH. The results were compared with other surrogate parameters such as the fractional area change/PASP ratio. The association of the surrogates with all-cause mortality was evaluated. In patients with PH (n = 74, 67%), TAPSE significantly correlated with Ees (r = 0.356), inverse with Ea (r = -0.514) but was most closely associated with Ees/Ea (r = 0.77). Placing TAPSE in a ratio with PASP slightly reduced the relationship to Ees/Ea (r = 0.71) but was more closely related to the parameters of PA vascular load, diastolic RV function, and RV energetics. The area under the curve of TAPSE/PASP and TAPSE for discriminating overall survival in receiver operating characteristic analysis was not different (P = 0.78. Prognostic relevant cut-offs were 17 mm for TAPSE and 0.38 mm/mmHg for TAPSE/PASP. Both parameters in multivariate cox regression remained independently prognostically relevant. CONCLUSION: TAPSE is an easily and reliably obtainable and valid surrogate parameter for RV-PA coupling in PH due to HFREF. Putting TAPSE into a ratio with PASP did not further improve the coupling information or prognostic assessment. TRIAL IDENTIFIER: DRKS-German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00011133; https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00011133).

Intracardiac echocardiography versus fluoroscopy for endovascular and endocardial catheter navigation during cryo-ablation of the slow pathway in AVNRT patients.

BACKGROUND: A new zero-fluoroscopy technique for electrophysiology catheter navigation relying on intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has been recently reported (Ice&ICE trial). We investigated potential differences in efficacy, safety or procedural performance between conventional fluoroscopy- and ICE-guided cryothermal ablation (CA) in symptomatic AVNRT patients. METHODS: Clinical and electrophysiological data of AVNRT patients included in the Ice&ICE trial (22 patients, 16 females; =zero-fluoroscopy group) were compared to those of consecutive AVNRT patients, who underwent fluoroscopy-guided CA (25 patients, 17 females; = fluoroscopy group) during the last 2 years in our institution. RESULTS: Slow pathway ablation or modulation was successful in all patients. Fluoroscopy time and radiation dose in the fluoroscopy group were 11.2 ± 9.0 min and 20.3 ± 16.2Gycm2, whereas no fluoroscopy was used in the opposite group (p <  0.001, respectively). EPS duration was not different between the groups (zero-fluoroscopy:101.6 ± 40.2 min, fluoroscopy:99.4 ± 37.2 min, p = n.s.). Catheter placement time was significantly shorter in the fluoroscopy group (2.2 ± 1.6 min vs. 12.0 ± 7.5 min, p <  0.05), whereas cryo-application duration (from the first cryo-mapping to the last CA) was significantly shorter in the zero-fluoroscopy group (27.5 ± 37.0 min vs. 38.1 ± 33.9 min, p <  0.05). Mean cryo-mapping and CA applications were numerically lower in the zero-fluoroscopy group (CM:7.5 ± 5.7 vs. 8.8 ± 6.2; CA:3.1 ± 1.7 vs. 3.2 ± 2.0, p = n.s.). No major adverse events occurred in both groups. After 15.0 ± 4.2 months, arrhythmia recurrence was not different between the groups (4.5% vs. 8.0%, p = n.s.). CONCLUSIONS: Zero-fluoroscopy ICE-guided EP catheter navigation shows comparable efficacy and safety to fluoroscopic guidance during CA in AVNRT patients. ICE visualization of catheters and endocardial structures within the triangle of Koch shortens the cryo-application duration, though time needed for catheter placement is longer, when compared with conventional fluoroscopic guidance, which results in similar mean EPS duration with both navigation techniques. TRIAL REGISTRATION: (German Clinical Trials Register ID: DRKS00011360 ; Registration Date 14.12.2016).

Effect of remote monitoring on patient-reported outcomes in European heart failure patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator: primary results of the REMOTE-CIED randomized trial.

AIMS: The European REMOTE-CIED study is the first randomized trial primarily designed to evaluate the effect of remote patient monitoring (RPM) on patient-reported outcomes in the first 2 years after implantation of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). METHODS AND RESULTS: The sample consisted of 595 European heart failure patients implanted with an ICD compatible with the Boston Scientific LATITUDE® RPM system. Patients were randomized to RPM plus a yearly in-clinic ICD check-up vs. 3-6-month in-clinic check-ups alone. At five points during the 2-year follow-up, patients completed questionnaires including the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire and Florida Patient Acceptance Survey (FPAS) to assess their heart failure-specific health status and ICD acceptance, respectively. Information on clinical status was obtained from patients' medical records. Linear regression models were used to compare scores between groups over time. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses showed no significant group differences in patients' health status and ICD acceptance (subscale) scores (all Ps > 0.05). Exploratory subgroup analyses indicated a temporary improvement in device acceptance (FPAS total score) at 6-month follow-up for secondary prophylactic in-clinic patients only (P < 0.001). No other significant subgroup differences were observed. CONCLUSION: Large clinical trials have indicated that RPM can safely and effectively replace most in-clinic check-ups of ICD patients. The REMOTE-CIED trial results show that patient-reported health status and ICD acceptance do not differ between patients on RPM and patients receiving in-clinic check-ups alone in the first 2 years after ICD implantation.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01691586.

Cerebrovascular events, bleeding complications and device related thrombi in atrial fibrillation patients with chronic kidney disease and left atrial appendage closure with the WATCHMAN™ device.

BACKGROUND: Impaired renal function increases the bleeding risk, leading to a conservative prescription and frequent discontinuation of oral anticoagulation in atrial fibrillation patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Interventional left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) might be an alternative therapeutic strategy for these patients. METHODS: We aimed to prospectively assess cerebrovascular (CE) and bleeding events, as well as peri-procedural and long-term complications in a cohort of consecutive patients undergoing interventional LAAC using the WATCHMAN™ device, with focus on CKD patients. RESULTS: One hundred and eighty-nine consecutive patients undergoing interventional LAAC were included in this analysis; 171 (90.5%) patients had a reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; patients for each CKD stage: II = 66; IIIa = 32; IIIb = 43; IV = 18; V = 12). During a follow-up of 310 patient years three (1.0%) patients suffered a CE (two strokes, one transitory ischemic attack) and five (1.6%) other ones a bleeding complication. The observed stroke rate was more than two-thirds and the bleeding risk more than half lower than expected. Device related thrombi (DRT) were detected in twelve (6.5%) patients; women had significantly more DRT than men (12.5% vs. 2.6%; p = 0.009). Patients with an eGFR< 30 ml/min/1.73m2 showed a trend to a higher DRT rate as compared to the opposite group (13.3% vs. 5.1%; p = 0.10). Thrombus resolved with temporary oral anticoagulation therapy in ten patients without sequelae; thrombus consolidation was confirmed by serial TEE controls in the remaining two patients. CONCLUSIONS: Atrial fibrillation patients with CKD have low CE and bleeding rates after LAAC with the WATCHMAN™ device. DRT risk is higher in female and patients with severe CKD. More frequent post-interventional TEE controls might be justified for early DRT detection and safe management of patients at high DRT risk. TRIAL REGISTRATION: (German Clinical Trials Register ID: DRKS00 010768 ; Registration Date 07.07.2016).

Effect of lead design and pacing vector on electrical parameters of quadripolar coronary sinus leads: The RALLY-X4 study.

BACKGROUND: Various lead designs have been developed to accommodate different coronary sinus anatomies. Our objectives were to compare electrical parameters of straight and spiral left ventricular leads, to evaluate capture thresholds and impedances using different pacing vectors, and to study evolution of thresholds over time. METHODS: The RALLY-X4 study enrolled patients implanted with a lead from the Acuity X4 family (straight, spiral short, or spiral long). Electrical parameters (including capture thresholds from all 17 vectors) were measured at baseline and follow-up. RESULTS: Data from 795 patients who were successfully implanted were analyzed. Straight and spiral leads had similar proportions of patients with thresholds <2.5 V/0.4 ms using the distal electrode (61-65% of patients) or from at least one of the proximal (E2-E4) electrodes (81-83% of patients). Unipolar vectors had significantly lower thresholds and impedances than bipolar vectors, with similar measurements compared to extended bipolar configurations. Capture thresholds increased with more proximal electrodes for all leads. Over a mean follow-up of 1 year, a slight decrease in capture thresholds was observed. CONCLUSION: Straight and spiral quadripolar leads allow to obtain clinically acceptable capture thresholds from at least one of the proximal electrodes in >80% of patients. Pacing vectors significantly affect electrical parameters, with higher thresholds in more proximal electrodes and lower thresholds with unipolar and extended bipolar configurations. Capture thresholds slightly decreased over a mean follow-up of 1 year.

Right heart function interacts with left ventricular remodeling after CRT: A pressure volume loop study.

BACKGROUND: Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is recognized as a cardinal prognostic marker in systolic heart failure patients. Conflicting data exist on the interaction of RV function and left ventricular (LV) reverse remodeling after cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). This prospective monocentric trial was set up to assess the predictive value of baseline RV function and corresponding RV-pulmonary artery (PA) coupling on LV reverse remodeling after CRT. METHODS: 110 patients with a CRT indication were prospectively enrolled. RV function and RV-PA interaction were analyzed at baseline using echocardiographic and invasive pressure-volume loop catheter approach. The primary endpoint was reverse LV remodeling (CRT-responder) defined as a reduction in LV end-systolic volume of ≥15% at 6 months. RESULTS: Responders had higher RV-PA coupling ratios (single-beat end-systolic elastance/PA elastance: Ees/Ea) at baseline, which corresponded to smaller RVs with better ejection fraction and lower afterload. After multivariate adjustment, the baseline Ees/Ea remained an independent predictor for LV response (OR 14.0 [1.5-130.8], p = 0.021). Normal coupling (Ees/Ea ≥ 1) was associated with higher responder rates (RR) (86%). Progressive uncoupling was associated with lower LV-RR (Ees/Ea ≤ 1-0.5: 57%, and Ees/Ea < 0.5: 32%, p < 0.001), corresponded with higher degrees of LV impairment and severity of mitral regurgitation, and was independently associated with an adverse outcome. CONCLUSIONS: A higher baseline RV-PA coupling, reflecting a lower degree of LV-induced pulmonary hypertension and secondary RV-dysfunction, is associated with an improved LV-reverse remodeling and is independently associated with better prognosis. The value of RV-PA ratio as potential guide for CRT patient selection warrants further investigation. Clinical Trial Registration - URL: http://www.drks.de. Unique Identifier: DRKS00011133.

Impact of internal and external electrical cardioversion on cardiac specific enzymes and inflammation in patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure.

BACKGROUND: Implantable cardioverter/defibrillator (ICD) shocks can cause myocardial injury, contributing to the progression of the underlying heart disease. The aim was to evaluate whether internal electrical cardioversion (int-CV) via the ICD or conventional external CV (ext-CV) of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) in heart failure (HF) patients induces myocardial injury and initiates inflammation. METHODS AND RESULTS: A total of 115 HF patients with an ejection fraction between 20% and 45% were prospectively enrolled. Fifty-one patients were excluded due to failure of electrical CV at the first attempt as well as early relapse of AF within 8h after CV. The int-CV group consisted of 22 and the ext-CV group of 42 patients. Baseline values of high sensitive troponin T (hsTnT), interleukin (IL)-6, and C-reactive protein (CRP) did not differ significantly in both groups, whereas baseline N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-pro BNP) was significantly lower in the ext-CV group. Eight hours after CV, the level of hsTnT increased significantly in the int-CV group, whereas no significant change was observed in the ext-CV group. Furthermore, CV significantly increased IL-6 and CRP in the int-CV group, whereas an insignificant increase could be documented in the ext-CV group. Due to electrical CV in both groups, the NT-pro BNP levels significantly declined in approximately the same content (int-CV 29% vs. ext-CV 36%). CONCLUSIONS: The significant increase in hsTnT, IL-6, and CRP in patients who underwent int-CV compared to those undergoing ext-CV may suggest that int-CV causes significant myocardial damage and induces systemic inflammation.

Serial Assessment of Natriuretic Peptides in Patients Undergoing Interventional Closure of the Left Atrial Appendage.

BACKGROUND: Closure of the left atrial appendage (LAA) to prevent cardioembolic events is an alternative therapy to oral anticoagulation in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. The LAA is an important source of natriuretic peptides and its exclusion from the circulation may alter the blood level of these hormones, thereby influencing their diagnostic value and clinical effects. METHODS: We aimed to prospectively assess potential changes in mid-regional pro A-type natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP) and N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels 6 weeks and 6 months after interventional LAA closure using the WATCHMAN device. RESULTS: In 29 consecutive patients with successful LAA closure baseline MR-proANP level was 274±208pmol/l and decreased by -24.5±68 (p=0.07) and -15.0±44pmol/l (p=0.10) after 6 weeks and 6 months, respectively. The drop in the MR-proANP level after 6 weeks and 6 months was significant in patients with elevated (≥214pmol/l) baseline MR-proANP level (n=15: -54.3±78.0, p<0.01 and -31.8±45.4pmol/l, p=0.03, respectively) and those with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF<45%, n=7: -87.4±97.3, p=0.02 and -60.3±42.6pmol/l, p=0.01, respectively). Baseline NT-proBNP level (median 1054pg/ml; IQR 621-1977pg/ml), sodium, potassium, mean systolic or diastolic blood pressure did not change significantly in the mentioned patient groups. CONCLUSIONS: After LAA closure, MR-proANP level decreased significantly in patients with elevated baseline MR-proANP level or reduced LVEF, whereas NT-proBNP level remained unchanged, thereby altering the correlation coefficient between the two biomarkers. Our findings should be considered when using these biomarkers for diagnostic or prognostic evaluation in patients with interventional LAA closure.

Zero-fluoroscopy cryothermal ablation of atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia guided by endovascular and endocardial catheter visualization using intracardiac echocardiography (Ice&ICE Trial).

INTRODUCTION: Stochastic damage of the ionizing radiation to both patients and medical staff is a drawback of fluoroscopic guidance during catheter ablation of cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, emerging zero-fluoroscopy catheter-guidance techniques are of great interest. METHODS AND RESULTS: We investigated, in a prospective pilot study, the feasibility and safety of the cryothermal (CA) slow-pathway ablation in patients with symptomatic atrioventricular-nodal-re-entry-tachycardia (AVNRT) using solely intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) for endovascular and endocardial catheter visualization. Twenty-five consecutive patients (mean age 55.6 ± 12.0 years, 17 female) with ECG-documentation or symptoms suggesting AVNRT underwent an electrophysiology study (EPS) in our laboratory utilizing ICE for catheter navigation. Supraventricular tachycardia was inducible in 23 (92%) patients; AVNRT was confirmed by appropriate stimulation maneuvers in 20 (80%) patients. All EPS in the AVNRT subgroup could be accomplished without need for fluoroscopy, relying solely on ICE-guidance. CA guided by anatomical location and slow-pathway potentials was successful in all patients, median cryo-mappings = 6 (IQR:3-10), median cryo-ablations = 2 (IQR:1-3). Fluoroscopy was used to facilitate the trans-septal puncture and localization of the ablation substrate in the remaining 3 patients (one focal atrial tachycardia and two atrioventricular-re-entry-tachycardias). Mean EPS duration in the AVNRT subgroup was 99.8 ± 39.6 minutes, ICE guided catheter placement 11.9 ± 5.8 minutes, time needed for diagnostic evaluation 27.1 ± 10.8 minutes, and cryo-application duration 26.3 ± 30.8 minutes. CONCLUSIONS: ICE-guided zero-fluoroscopy CA in AVNRT patients is feasible and safe. Real-time visualization of the true endovascular borders and cardiac structures allow for safe catheter navigation during the ICE-guided EPS and might be an alternative to visualization technologies using geometry reconstructions.

Left atrial enlargement and clinical considerations in patients with or without a residual interatrial shunt after closure of the left atrial appendage with the WATCHMAN™-device.

BACKGROUND: Interventional closure of the left atrial appendage (LAA) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, high thromboembolic and bleeding risk or bleeding history is an alternative therapeutic strategy to oral anticoagulation. It is not known if the exclusion of the LAA from the blood circulation affects the left atrial volume (LAV) and consequently its prognostic value or the circulatory performance of the heart in humans. METHODS: We aimed to prospectively assess potential changes in baseline LAV, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), NT-proBNP-level and the covered distance in the 6-min walk-test 6 weeks and 6 months after LAA closure with the WATCHMAN™ device. We used serial 3-dimensional transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography to assess LAV, residual interatrial shunt and device performance in 58 consecutive patients with successful LAA closure. RESULTS: Accurate 3D-echocardiographic data for LAV measurements were evaluable for 51 (91%) patients. Maximum LAV (LAVmax) at baseline was 102.8 ± 30.8 ml and increased significantly to 107.7 ± 32.8 ml after 6 weeks (p < 0.01) and 113.5 ± 34.2 ml after 6 months (p < 0.01). Minimal LAV (LAVmin) increased from 76.9 ± 29.5 ml at baseline to 81.8 ± 30.2 ml after 45 days (p < 0.01) and 82.1 ± 33.3 ml after 6 months (p < 0.01). Similarly, their indexes to BSA (LAVImax and LAVImin) increased significantly, as well. Patients without a residual left-to-right interatrial shunt showed a significantly higher increase in LAVmax or LAVmin. Baseline LVEF, NT-proBNP-level or the distance covered at the 6-min walk test did not significantly change 6 weeks or 6 months after LAA closure. CONCLUSIONS: LAVmax and LAVmin increase significantly after interventional LAA closure. LA enlargement does not correlate with clinical progression of heart failure. Persistent left-to-right interatrial shunt counteracts the LA enlargement. A reduced LA compliance after exclusion of the LAA from the blood circulation with consecutive increase in LA pressure may be a potential cause of LA enlargement and warrants further investigation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register ID: DRKS00010768 ; Registration Date 07.07.2016.

The patient perspective on remote monitoring of patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator: Narrative review and future directions.

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that remote patient monitoring (RPM) of implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) is at least comparable to in-clinic follow-up with regard to clinical outcomes and might be cost-effective, yet RPM is not standard clinical practice within Europe. Better insight into the patient perspective on RPM may aid in its acceptance, implementation, and reimbursement. This narrative review (1) summarizes existing evidence on the impact of RPM on patient-reported outcomes and (2) discusses future directions in examining the patient perspective. METHODS AND RESULTS: Literature review indicated that only five randomized trials on RPM in ICD patients included patient-reported outcomes, with inconclusive results. Observational studies show a trend toward good patient satisfaction and acceptation of RPM. Yet, results should be interpreted with caution due to a number of limitations including a potential selection bias, use of generic/nonvalidated questionnaires, relatively short follow-up durations, and a lack of subgroup identification. CONCLUSION: Although RPM seems to be safe, effective, timely, and efficient, the patient perspective has received little attention so far. The scarce evidence on patient-reported outcomes in RPM studies seems to be positive, but future trials with a follow-up of ≥12 months and validated patient-reported outcome measures are needed. The REMOTE-CIED study from our group is the first prospective randomized controlled trial primarily designed to examine the patient perspective on RPM, and is powered to identify characteristics associated with RPM satisfaction and benefit. Results are expected in 2018 and will add valuable information to the current evidence.

Effects of the Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ Agonist Pioglitazone on Peripheral Vessel Function and Clinical Parameters in Nondiabetic Patients: A Double-Center, Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial.

OBJECTIVE: Despite the advanced therapy with statins, antithrombotics, and antihypertensive agents, the medical treatment of atherosclerotic disease is less than optimal. Therefore, additional therapeutic antiatherosclerotic options are desirable. This pilot study was performed to assess the potential antiatherogenic effect of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist pioglitazone in nondiabetic patients. METHODS: A total of 54 nondiabetic patients were observed in a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Patients were randomized to pioglitazone or placebo. The following efficacy parameters were determined by serial analyses: artery pulse wave analysis and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV), static and dynamic retinal vessel function, and the common carotid intima-media thickness (IMT). The main secondary endpoint was the change in different biochemical markers. RESULTS: After 9 months, no relevant differences could be determined in the two treatment groups in PWV (pioglitazone 14.3 ± 4.4 m/s vs. placebo 14.2 ± 4.2 m/s), retinal arterial diameter (pioglitazone 112.1 ± 23.3 µm vs. placebo 117.9 ± 21.5 µm) or IMT (pioglitazone 0.85 ± 0.30 mm vs. placebo 0.79 ± 0.15 mm). Additionally, there were no differences in the change in biochemical markers like cholesteryl ester transfer protein, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein or white blood cell count. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ agonist in nondiabetic patients did not improve the function of large and small peripheral vessels (PPP Trial, clinicaltrialsregister.eu: 2006-000186-11).

Effects of the PPARγ agonist pioglitazone on coronary atherosclerotic plaque composition and plaque progression in non-diabetic patients: a double-center, randomized controlled VH-IVUS pilot-trial.

Despite the advanced therapy with statins, antithrombotics and antihypertensive agents, the medical treatment of coronary artery disease is less than optimal. Therefore, additional therapeutic anti-atherosclerotic options are desirable. This VH-IVUS study (intravascular ultrasonography with virtual histology) was performed to assess the potential anti-atherogenic effect of the PPARγ agonist pioglitazone in non-diabetic patients. A total of 86 non-culprit atherosclerotic lesions in 54 patients with acute coronary syndrome were observed in a 9-month prospective, double-blind, and placebo-controlled IVUS study. Patients were randomized to receive either 30 mg pioglitazone (Pio) or placebo (Plac). As primary efficacy parameter, the change of relative plaque content of necrotic core was determined by serial VH-IVUS analyses. Main secondary endpoint was the change of total plaque volume. In contrast to placebo, in the pioglitazone-treated group, the relative plaque content of necrotic core decreased significantly (Pio -1.3 ± 6.9% vs. Plac +2.6 ± 6.5%, p < 0.01). In comparison to the placebo group, the plaques in pioglitazone-treated patients showed significantly greater reduction of the total plaque volume (Pio -16.1 ± 26.4 mm3 vs. Plac -1.8 ± 30.9 mm3, p = 0.02). Treatment with a PPARγ agonist in non-diabetic patients results in a coronary artery plaque stabilization on top of usual medical care.

Which patient is most likely to benefit from dronedarone? Analysis from the Magdeburg Dronedarone Registry (MADRE study).

Based on an analysis of the Magdeburg Dronedarone Registry data we sought to determine which patients could benefit from dronedarone therapy regarding rhythm control. The study included 191 patients (85 women) aged 63 ± 10 years with a history of paroxysmal or persistent AF and a follow-up of 14 ± 5 months. The total AF recurrence rate was 67% and lone AF was significantly more often associated with AF recurrences than non-lone AF (84% vs. 62%, P = .01). Arterial hypertension, treated coronary artery disease, and diabetes mellitus were not significantly related to AF recurrences (64%, 67%, 58% resp. P = .3). Response rate to dronedarone in patients with slightly increased left atrial size was significantly greater than in patients with normal or markedly increased left atrial size (47%, 16%, 27% resp., P = .001). The rate of adverse effects was 32% in the study sample, and was significantly lower in patients with lone AF as compared to those with non-lone AF (11% vs. 37%, P = .002). The body mass index was a predictor neither of response rate nor adverse effects. The results suggest that dronedarone is more effective in patients with non-lone AF and slightly increased left atrial size.

Influence of oral antiplatelet therapy on hemorrhagic complications of pacemaker implantation.

OBJECTIVE: We retrospectively assessed the incidence of hemorrhagic complications associated with pacemaker implantation in patients receiving one or more antiplatelet agents. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective multicenter case-control study. Data were collected from three cardiac units in Germany from 2006 to 2010. METHODS: A total of 495 pacemaker patients were enrolled. 99 patients received dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin and clopidogrel), 198 were given only aspirin and 198 had no antiplatelet therapy (control). Patients were matched for age and sex. Implant-related bleeding complications were defined as major bleeding, if surgical pocket exploration or blood transfusion were needed. Minor bleeding complications were defined as one or more of the following conditions: fall of hemoglobin content >1.5 g/dl not requiring blood transfusion; pocket hematoma; pocket effusion not requiring surgical revision. MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS: Hemorrhagic complications were seen in 4/198 control patients and 6/198 aspirin-only patients [2 vs. 3 %, p = 0.5, OR = 1.52 (0.42-5.46)]. Patients undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy had significantly more bleeding complications than patients in the aspirin-only group [11/99: 11.1 vs. 3 %, p = 0.005, OR = 3.95 (1.43-11.16)]. Major complications occurred in 1/198 control patients and 2/198 aspirin-only patients [0.5 vs. 1 %, p = 0.6, OR = 2.01 (0.18-22.35)]. In contrast, 7/99 patients undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy exhibited major complications [7.1 vs. 1 %, p = 0.004, OR = 7.46 (1.52-36.50)]. CONCLUSIONS: Although in patients undergoing pacemaker implantation dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel caused a significant increase of bleeding complications, the use of aspirin alone was not associated with a significant increase in bleeding complications.