Arrhythmia detection using an implantable loop recorder after a negative electrophysiology study in Brugada syndrome: Observations from a multicenter international registry.

BACKGROUND: Risk stratification in Brugada syndrome (BrS) remains controversial. In this respect, the role of the electrophysiology study (EPS) has been a subject of debate. In some centers, it is common practice to use an implantable loop recorder (ILR) after a negative EPS to help in risk stratification. However, the diagnostic value of this approach has never been specifically addressed. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to describe the baseline characteristics and the main findings of a diagnostic workup strategy with an ILR after a negative EPS in BrS. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective international registry including patients with BrS and negative EPS (ie, noninducible ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation) before ILR monitoring. RESULTS: The study included 65 patients from 8 referral hospitals in The Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom (mean age, 39 ± 16 years; 72% male). The main indication for ILR monitoring was unexplained syncope/presyncope (66.2%). During a median follow-up of 39.0 months (Q1 25.0-Q3 47.6 months), 18 patients (27.7%) experienced 21 arrhythmic events (AEs). None of the patients died during follow-up. Bradyarrhythmias were the most common finding (47.6%), followed by atrial tachyarrhythmias (38.1%). Only 3 patients presented with ventricular arrhythmias. AEs were considered incidental in 12 patients (66.7%). In 11 patients (61.1%), AEs led to specific changes in treatment. CONCLUSION: The use of ILR after a negative EPS in BrS is a safe strategy that reflected the high negative predictive value of EPS for ventricular arrhythmia in this syndrome. In addition, it allowed the detection of AEs in a significant proportion of patients, with therapeutic implications in most of them.

Feasibility and safety of left bundle branch area pacing in cardiac amyloidosis. A single center experience.

BACKGROUND: Conventional right ventricle (RV) pacemaker stimulation has been associated with worse clinical outcomes in patients with cardiac amyloidosis (CA). Left bundle branch area pacing (LABPP) has been suggested as a promising alternative. We sought to assess the safety, feasibility, and outcomes of LABPP in patients with CA. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed echocardiography and pacing parameters and clinical outcomes in 23 consecutive patients with CA and LBBAP implanted from June 2020 to October 2022. RESULTS: LBBAP was successfully performed in 22 over 23 patients (19 male, 78.6 ± 11.7 years, 20 ATTR, mean LVEF 45.5 ± 16.2%). After the procedure, 9 patients showed Qr pattern and 11 a qR pattern in V1 on ECG. Average procedure time was 67 ± 28 min. After 7.7 ± 5.2 months follow-up, no procedure-related complications had occurred. Although, a significant reduction in QRS width (p = .001) was achieved, we did not observe significant changes in LVEF and Nt ProBNP at 6 months of follow-up. Pacing parameters were stable during follow-up: LBB capture threshold and R wave amplitude were 1.0 ±  0.5 V and 10.6 ± 6.0 mV versus 0.8 ±  0.1 V, p = .21 and 10.6 ± 5.1 mV (p = .985) at follow up. CONCLUSION: LBBAP is safe and feasible pacing technique for patients with CA. LBBAP is associated with significant narrowing of QRSd without worsening in LVEF and Nt-proBNP.

Experience and insights from a prolonged electrocardiographic monitorization with a wearable system after an embolic stroke of unknown source.

BACKGROUND: Embolic cerebrovascular events that remain of unknown etiology after a thorough diagnostic evaluation, are known as Embolic Strokes of Undetermined Source (ESUS). Subclinical atrial fibrillation (AF) represents a significant underlying cause of ESUS. Our aims were to examine the overall diagnostic yield of a prolonged cardiac monitoring wearable system (PCMw) after an ESUS to detect AF and factors associated with it, including the time frame from the ESUS event to PCMw initiation. Additionally, to evaluate the frequency of unexpected arrhythmic events (UAE) and their prognostic implications. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 200 ECG recordings (3-leads, 30 days duration) by means of a PCMw in patients with an ESUS to detect AF lasting longer than 30 s, between 2017 and 2021. UAE were defined as arrhythmia events that were not correlated to the main reason of prolonged cardiac monitoring. RESULTS: AF was detected in 21 patients (10.5%). Patients with AF had more left atrial enlargement (OR = 4.22 [1.59-6.85]; p = .01) and atrial arrythmias in the initial 24-h Holter during hospitalization (OR = 5.73 [2.03-16.49]; p = .001). The detection of AF was significatively higher if the PCMw was worn within the first 30 days after the ESUS compared to beyond 30 days (17% vs. 10.3%; p = .002). Fifty three patients (26.5%) had UAE during PCMw. In six of them these findings led to targeted treatment. CONCLUSION: PCMw represents a feasible non-invasive device that could reliably detect subclinical AF episodes after an ESUS. Diagnostic yield was significatively higher when used within the first 30 days after the event, especially in selected patients. UAE were common, but did not impact prognosis.

Predictors and outcomes of pacemaker implantation in patients with cardiac amyloidosis.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to investigate prevalence, incidence and prognostic implications of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation in patients with cardiac amyloidosis (CA), thereby identifying the predictors of time to PPM implantation. METHODS: Seven hundred eighty-seven patients with CA (602 men, median age 74 years, 571 transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR), 216 light-chain amyloidosis (AL)) evaluated at two European referral centres were retrospectively included. Clinical, laboratory and instrumental data were analysed. The associations between PPM implantation and mortality, heart failure (HF) or a composite endpoint of mortality, cardiac transplantation and HF were analysed. RESULTS: 81 (10.3%) patients had a PPM before initial evaluation. Over a median follow-up time of 21.7 months (IQR 9.6-45.2), 81 (10.3%) additional patients (18 with AL (22.2%) and 63 with ATTR (77.8%)) underwent PPM implantation with a median time to implantation of 15.6 months (IQR 4.2-40), complete atrioventricular block was the most common indication (49.4%). Independent predictors of PPM implantation were QRS duration (HR 1.03, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.03, p<0.001) and interventricular septum (IVS) thickness (HR 1.1, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.17, p=0.003). The model to estimate the probability of PPM at 12 months and containing both factors showed a C-statistic of 0.71 and a calibration of slope of 0.98. CONCLUSIONS: Conduction system disease requiring PPM is a common complication in CA that affects up to 20.6% of patients. QRS duration and IVS thickness are independently associated with PPM implantation. A PPM implantation at 12 months model was devised and validated to identify patients with CA at higher risk of requiring a PPM and who require closer follow-up.

Efficacy and safety of Proglide use and early discharge after atrial fibrillation ablation compared to standard approach. PROFA trial.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The common practice after atrial fibrillation ablation is to admit patients for an overnight stay. The aim of this study was to compare a strategy of vascular suture mediated closure system utilization and early discharge (strategy A) compared to traditional closure and overnight hospitalization (strategy B) regarding feasibility, safety, quality of life and health care cost effectiveness. METHODS AND RESULTS: Hundred patients were randomized to compare both strategies. No clinical differences were reported except diabetes mellitus. Six patients (6%) had and emergency visit or were admitted in the first 30 days after procedure. Three occurred in strategy A versus three in strategy B (p = 1) (p < .005 for non-inferiority). Forty out of 50 patients (80%) were safely discharged in a time frame of 3 h and 42 patients (84%) were discharged in the same day of the procedure in strategy A. Time to discharge was shorter in strategy A compared to strategy B. (5.89 ± 7.47 h vs. 27.09 ± 2.29 p < .005). No differences were obtained in quality-of-life outcomes. Mean (95% CI) euros cost saving per patient in strategy A was 379.16 ± 93.55 p < .001. Ten acute complications (10% patients CI 95% 4.02%-15.98%) were reported during the trial. Seven (14% CI 95% 4.04%-23.96%) occurred in strategy A patients versus 3 (6% CI 95% 0.8%-12.8%) in strategy B. (p = .182) CONCLUSION: A strategy of vascular suture mediated closure system utilization and early discharge was feasible, reduced time to discharge, saved costs and was not associated with more complications or admissions/emergency visits in a 30-day time frame after procedure compared to a strategy of regular admission and discharge after overnight stay. There were no differences regarding quality-of-life parameters between both strategies.

Estimation of the QTc interval in the presence of right bundle branch block: A comparative study using validated formulae for left bundle branch block.

BACKGROUND: Adequate measurement of the QT interval is of clinical importance in order to identify patients at higher risk for ventricular arrhythmias. Previous studies have described different methods to estimate baseline QT in patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB). However, the evidence regarding the assessment of the QT in patients with right bundle branch block (RBBB) is scarce. AIM: To analyze the feasibility and reliability of the different formulae described for LBBB in the estimation of the baseline QT in the presence of RBBB. METHODS: We performed an observational study including patients who underwent electrophysiology study and/or ablation. Two types of RBBB were considered: 1) pacing-induced and 2) transient true RBBB. QRS, JT and QT intervals were measured during baseline and RBBB. Estimated QTc was calculated using LBBB formulae: Bogossian, Rautaharju, Tabatabaei, Tang-Rabkin, Yankelson, Wang. Linear correlation and intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were used to assess the reliability of these formulae for the estimation of baseline QTc. RESULTS: We finally included a total of 100 patients. Correlations between baseline and estimated QTc were strong (R > 0.7) for all the formulae except for Tabatabaei. Yankelson and Wang showed the highest reliability (ICC = 0.775 and 0.727, respectively). Yankelson appeared to be the most accurate formula, with a mean estimated QTc closest to baseline values. CONCLUSION: Previously described formulae for LBBB exhibited marked differences regarding reliability in the estimation of the QTc interval in the presence of RBBB. According to our results, Yankelson showed the most consistent and accurate agreement in this setting.

Trapped p waves causing loss of physiological left bundle branch pacing.

We present the case of a 75-year-old woman with severe aortic stenosis and moderate left ventricular dysfunction, who underwent elective transcatheter aortic valve replacement. After the procedure, the patient developed a left bundle branch block and a long PR interval. For this reason, a dual chamber pacemaker with pacing in the left bundle branch area was implanted. On device interrogation, we confirmed the presence of functional atrial undersensing causing loss of ventricular electric resynchronization. This case highlights the importance of recognizing this problem and, by means of device reprogramming and pharmacological intervention, suggests a stepwise approach to solve it.

Benefits of cardiac pacing in ICD recipients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

PURPOSE: Implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) is the only definitive therapy for prevention of sudden cardiac death in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Conventional transvenous ICDs can provide cardiac pacing unlike new subcutaneous ICD, but the usefulness of cardiac pacing in HCM patients is not well defined. We sought to assess the usefulness of ICD pacing in HCM. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 93 HCM patients who had undergone ICD implantation at our center. Usefulness of pacing was defined as follows: 1) need of pacing due to bradycardia or AV conduction disturbances, 2) improvement of LV outflow tract obstruction by sequential AV pacing, 3) need for CRT pacing, or 4) successful antitachycardia pacing without a subsequent shock. Independent predictors of useful pacing were investigated by multivariable analysis. RESULTS: During a mean follow-up of 91.3 ± 5.5 months, 43 patients (46.2%) reached the composite endpoint. Independent predictors of pacing usefulness were older age (HR 1.36; 95%CI: 1.088-1.709; p=0.007) and NYHA functional class ≥ II (HR 2.15; 95%CI: 1.083-4.301; p=0.029). Twenty-eight (30.1%) patients had appropriate ICD interventions, triggered by a monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (MVT) in 22 of them (78.5%). In 17 individuals with MVT (77%), antitachycardia pacing successfully treated MVT. CONCLUSIONS: In our HCM series of patients with ICD, 46% of individuals benefitted from cardiac pacing. MVT were documented in nearly 80% of the patients with ventricular arrhythmias and antitachycardia pacing successfully treated them in 77% of cases.

An unexpected cause of sudden cardiac arrest in a young swimmer.

Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is an uncommon but devastating event among young adults. While inherited cardiomyopathies and channelopathies represent an important proportion of sudden deaths, coronary artery disease remains a significant contributor in this age group. ECG findings are essential to guide the first steps of diagnostic work-up of SCA, but sometimes can overlap between different etiologies. In this article we present a 16-year-old female who experienced SCA during vigorous swimming whose ECG was compatible with long QT syndrome. However, evaluation of the coronary anatomy provided the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease.

Right ventricular function and dyssynchrony in Brugada syndrome: Highlighting the importance of the mechanical substrate in the right ventricular outflow tract.

BACKGROUND: Current evidence suggests that Brugada syndrome (BrS), far from being a purely electrical condition, is associated with subtle mechanical abnormalities primarily affecting the right ventricle (RV). We aimed to characterize RV function in BrS and investigate the echocardiographic profile of patients with arrhythmic events, with a special focus on parameters of RV dyssynchrony using speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE). METHODS: An echocardiogram was performed in 71 BrS patients and 25 healthy controls. STE was performed to assess regional and global RV mechanics, including RV outflow tract shortening (RVOTS). RVOT contraction time was considered to calculate the modified RV mechanical dispersion (RVMDm). Arrhythmic events were prospectively evaluated in the BrS cohort. RESULTS: Compared to controls, BrS patients showed subtle contractile abnormalities, including impaired RV longitudinal strain, higher RV index of myocardial performance (RIMP) and lower RVOTS. BrS patients also exhibited a greater contraction delay between the lateral and the septal aspect of the RV. After a median follow-up of 7.3 year (IQR 5.2-10.8), 6 patients presented malignant arrhythmic events. RIMP >0.50, RVOTS <16.2% and RVMDm > 42 ms showed high sensitivity for the identification of BrS patients with arrhythmic events during follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Subtle RV mechanical abnormalities were present in BrS patients. RIMP and RVOTS, a novel STE-derived parameter, were found to be sensitive markers of arrhythmic events. Adding the RVOT contraction time to the analysis of RVMD may help identify patients at higher risk, reflecting the importance of the RVOT mechanical substrate in the assessment of the arrhythmic risk in BrS.

PET/TC con 18F-FDG en la sospecha de infección asociada a dispositivos intracardiacos: rendimiento y utilidad diagnóstica / PET/CT with 18F-FDG in suspected intracardiac device-related infections: analysis of performance and diagnostic usefulness

Introducción y objetivos Las infecciones relacionadas con dispositivos intracardiacos (i-DIC) son potencialmente graves y requieren un diagnóstico precoz y certero. Los objetivos del estudio son analizar el rendimiento de la tomografía por emisión de positrones con tomografía computarizada (PET/TC) ante sospecha de i-DIC y los cambios que induce sobre el diagnóstico inicial e identificar el escenario con mayor beneficio de uso. Métodos Estudio retrospectivo de pacientes valorados mediante PET/TC por sospecha de i-DIC desde 2011 a 2018. Se calcularon valores de rendimiento diagnóstico de la PET/TC y la concordancia entre diagnóstico inicial y post-PET y el diagnóstico definitivo. Se analizaron los cambios diagnósticos considerando la sospecha clínica inicial para identificar a los pacientes con mayor beneficio. Resultados Se incluyó a 44 pacientes. La prevalencia de endocarditis fue del 57%. La sensibilidad y la especificidad de la 18F-FDG-PET/TC para el diagnóstico de endocarditis fueron 0,84 y 0,95. El diagnóstico tras la PET mejoró el inicial un 45%. De los pacientes con sospecha de infección local, la PET/TC reclasificó adecuadamente al 57% por detección de infección profunda. Conclusiones La PET/TC muestra elevado rendimiento diagnóstico ante la sospecha de i-DIC y mejora significativamente el diagnóstico convencional, sobre todo en el grupo de pacientes con sospecha de infección limitada al bolsillo. (AU)

Introduction and objectives Cardiac device-related infections (CDRI) may be life-threatening and require early and accurate diagnosis. The aims of this study were to analyze the performance of positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) in suspected CDRI, to assess changes to the initial diagnosis, and to identify a clinical subgroup deriving the greatest benefit from this imaging modality. Methods Retrospective study including patients evaluated by PET/CT for suspected CDRI from 2011 to 2018. We assessed PET/CT performance and the agreement between the initial, post-PET and definitive diagnoses. We also assessed changes in the diagnosis, depending on initial clinical suspicion, to identify patients deriving the greatest benefit from PET/CT. Results We included 44 patients. The prevalence of endocarditis was 57%. The sensitivity and specificity of PET/CT for the diagnosis of infective endocarditis were 0.84 and 0.95, respectively. Post-PET diagnosis improved the initial diagnosis by 45%. PET/CT correctly reclassified 57% of patients with initial suspicion of generator pocket infection by detecting lead infection. Conclusions PET/CT showed high diagnostic performance in suspected of CDRI and significantly improved the conventional diagnostic approach, especially in patients with initial suspicion of focal infection. (AU)

PET/CT with 18F-FDG in suspected intracardiac device-related infections: analysis of performance and diagnostic usefulness.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Cardiac device-related infections (CDRI) may be life-threatening and require early and accurate diagnosis. The aims of this study were to analyze the performance of positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) in suspected CDRI, to assess changes to the initial diagnosis, and to identify a clinical subgroup deriving the greatest benefit from this imaging modality. METHODS: Retrospective study including patients evaluated by PET/CT for suspected CDRI from 2011 to 2018. We assessed PET/CT performance and the agreement between the initial, post-PET and definitive diagnoses. We also assessed changes in the diagnosis, depending on initial clinical suspicion, to identify patients deriving the greatest benefit from PET/CT. RESULTS: We included 44 patients. The prevalence of endocarditis was 57%. The sensitivity and specificity of PET/CT for the diagnosis of infective endocarditis were 0.84 and 0.95, respectively. Post-PET diagnosis improved the initial diagnosis by 45%. PET/CT correctly reclassified 57% of patients with initial suspicion of generator pocket infection by detecting lead infection. CONCLUSIONS: PET/CT showed high diagnostic performance in suspected of CDRI and significantly improved the conventional diagnostic approach, especially in patients with initial suspicion of focal infection.

Incidencia, tasa de éxito, complicaciones y factores predictores de empleo de la vía femoral en procedimientos percutáneos de extracción de electrodos / Incidence, success rate, complications and predictive factors of the use of the femoral route for the removal of the electrodes after percutaneous procedures

Resumen Introducción: en los procedimientos de extracción de electrodos, la vía femoral se usa cuando la vía superior ha fracasado. Objetivo: describir la incidencia, el éxito, las complicaciones y los predictores de uso de la vía femoral. Métodos: se realizó un análisis de la incidencia del uso de la vía femoral y los factores predictores en pacientes a quienes se les realizó extracción de electrodos entre noviembre de 2011 y noviembre de 2017. Resultados: se incluyeron 85 pacientes, con edad media de 62,36 ± 11,15 años. El 38,9% de los dispositivos eran marcapasos. Se extrajeron 135 electrodos, 59,3% de fijación pasiva. La mediana de tiempo desde el implante fue de 102 (60-174) meses. Se empleó la ruta femoral en el 25,9% de los procedimientos. Se obtuvo éxito clínico en el 92,9% de los pacientes. La extracción no fue exitosa en el 22,7% de los procedimientos cuando se usó la vía femoral, en comparación con el 1,6% cuando se usó la vía superior (p 0,004). La extracción no fue completa en el 36,4% de los procedimientos cuando se empleó la vía femoral en comparación con el 9,5% por vía superior (p 0,007). Los factores que predijeron el empleo de la ruta femoral fueron la presencia de electrodos de fijación pasiva [OR IC 95% 13,69 (3,06-62,5) p 0,001] y el tiempo desde el implante del electrodo [OR IC 95% por cada 10 meses 1,04 (1,00-1,09) p 0,044]. Conclusiones: se empleó la ruta femoral en el 25,9% de los procedimientos. No fue eficaz en el 22,7% de las intervenciones. Los factores que predijeron su utilización fueron la presencia de electrodos de fijación pasiva y el tiempo desde el implante del electrodo.

Abstract Introduction: The femoral route is used in electrode removal procedures when the upper route has failed. Objective: To describe the incidence, success rate, complications and predictive factors for the use of the femoral route. Methods: An analysis was performed on the incidence of use of the femoral route and the predictive factors in patients in whom electrode removal was carried out between November 2011 and November 2017. Results: The study included 85 patients with a mean age of 62.36 ± 11.5 years. Pacemakers made up 38.9% of the devices. A total of 135 electrodes, 59.3% of passive fixation, were removed. The median time since the implant was 102 (60-174) months. The femoral route was used in 25.9% of the procedures. Clinical success was achieved in 92.9% of the patients. The removal was not successful in 22.7% of the procedures when the femoral route was used, compared to 1.6% when the upper route was used (P = .004). The removal was not completed in 36.4% of the procedures when the femoral route was used, compared to 9.5% with the upper route (P = .007). The factors that predicted the use of the femoral route were the presence of passive-fixation electrodes (OR = 13.69: 95% CI; 3.06 - 62.5, P = .001), and the time since the electrodes were implanted (OR = 1.04, 95% CI; 1.00 - 1.09, P = .044, for every 10 months). Conclusions: The femoral route was employed in 25.9% of the procedures. It was not effective in 22.7% of the interventions. The factors that predicted its use were the presence of passive-fixation electrodes and the time since the electrode implant.

The Role of Anxiety in Patients With Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Elective Cardioversion: An Observational Study.

OBJECTIVE: Anxiety is often present among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). This condition has been associated with greater symptom severity and worse quality of life in these patients. However, the influence of anxiety on the risk of AF recurrence is not well known. We aimed to define the level of anxiety in patients with persistent AF undergoing elective cardioversion (EC) and determine whether there is an association between anxiety and the risk of early AF recurrence after EC. METHODS: Anxiety was measured before EC using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Early AF recurrence was assessed with a control electrocardiogram at 30-day follow-up. RESULTS: We included 107 patients undergoing effective EC. Early AF recurrence was diagnosed in 40 patients (37.4%). Compared with those who remained in sinus rhythm, individuals with early AF recurrence had significantly higher levels of trait anxiety (23.1 [10.4] versus 17.9 [9.5]; p = .013) and larger left atrial volume index (45.8 [12.3] versus 37.9 [13.3] ml/m; p = .004). Both variables remained independently associated with early AF recurrence after multivariate analysis. A predictive model including trait anxiety score >20 and left atrial volume index >41 ml/m showed acceptable accuracy for the diagnosis of early AF recurrence (area under the curve = 0.733; 95% confidence interval = 0.634-0.832; p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows that trait anxiety is an independent risk factor for early AF recurrence after EC. Further studies are warranted to assess the beneficial role of anxiety-reducing strategies on the outcomes of patients with AF.

Prolongación del intervalo QT por fármacos en la neumonía por COVID-19: influencia en la supervivencia durante el ingreso / Drug-induced QT prolongation in COVID-19 pneumonia: influence on in-hospital survival

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Propuesta de una nueva calificación para determinar el riesgo de infección de dispositivos cardiacos implantables / Proposal for a novel score to determine the risk of cardiac implantable electronic device infection

Introducción y objetivos: El uso de dispositivos cardiacos implantables (DCI) se ha expandido en los últimos años. La infección relacionada con estos dispositivos es una de las principales complicaciones y se asocia con grandes morbilidad, mortalidad y costes. El objetivo del estudio es construir una puntuación predictiva del riesgo de infección del DCI. Métodos: Se diseñó un estudio retrospectivo de casos y controles anidado. Tanto los casos como los controles pertenecían a una cohorte que incluía a todos los pacientes sometidos a un procedimiento relacionado con un DCI entre enero de 2009 y diciembre de 2015. Los casos se definieron como pacientes con infección, y se seleccionó aleatoriamente a 3 controles de la cohorte por cada caso incluido. Resultados: Durante el periodo de estudio, se realizaron 2.323 procedimientos. Se identificaron en total 33 infecciones relacionadas con el DCI. Se seleccionó como controles a 99 pacientes. Se identificaron como factores de riesgo independientes el índice de Charlson (OR=1,33; IC95%, 1,07-1,67), la anticoagulación oral (OR=3,51; IC95%, 1,44-8,54), la revisión o el reemplazo de un dispositivo anterior (OR=2,75; IC95%, 1,12-6,71) y la presencia de más de 2 cables (OR=3,42; IC95%, 1,25-9,37). Se generó una escala de riesgo predictivo y se denominó CIED-AI (índice de Charlson, más de 2 cables/electrodos, revisión/reemplazo del dispositivo, anticoagulación oral, infección previa). Esta puntuación presentó un área bajo la curva receiver operating characteristic de 0,79 (IC95%, 0,71-0,88). Conclusiones: La puntuación CIED-AI puede ayudar a identificar a los pacientes con mayor riesgo de infección que serían candidatos a medidas de prevención intensivas

Introduction and objectives: The use of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) has expanded in recent years. Infection related to these devices constitutes one of the main complications and is associated with high morbidity, mortality, and financial cost. The aim of this study was to construct a predictive risk score of acquiring CIED infection. Methods: We designed a retrospective, nested case-control study. Both cases and controls belonged to a cohort that included all patients who underwent a CIED-related procedure between January 2009 and December 2015. Cases were defined as patients with infection, and 3 infection-free controls were randomly selected from the cohort for each case included. Results: During the study period, 2323 procedures were performed. A total of 33 CIED-related infections were identified. Ninety-nine patients were selected as controls. Independent risk factors were the Charlson index (OR, 1.33; 95%CI, 1.07-1.67), oral anticoagulation (OR, 3.51; 95%CI, 1.44-8.54), revision or replacement of a previous device (OR, 2.75; 95%CI, 1.12-6.71) and the presence of more than 2 leads (OR, 3.42; 95%CI, 1.25-9.37). A predictive risk score was generated and denominated CIED-AI (Charlson Index, more than 2 leads/Electrodes, Device revision/replacement, oral Anticoagulation, previous Infection). This score had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.79 (95%CI, 0.71-0.88). Conclusions: The CIED-AI score may help to identify patients at higher risk of infection, who could be candidates for intensive preventive measures

Proposal for a Novel Score to Determine the Risk of Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Infection.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: The use of cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) has expanded in recent years. Infection related to these devices constitutes one of the main complications and is associated with high morbidity, mortality, and financial cost. The aim of this study was to construct a predictive risk score of acquiring CIED infection. METHODS: We designed a retrospective, nested case-control study. Both cases and controls belonged to a cohort that included all patients who underwent a CIED-related procedure between January 2009 and December 2015. Cases were defined as patients with infection, and 3 infection-free controls were randomly selected from the cohort for each case included. RESULTS: During the study period, 2323 procedures were performed. A total of 33 CIED-related infections were identified. Ninety-nine patients were selected as controls. Independent risk factors were the Charlson index (OR, 1.33; 95%CI, 1.07-1.67), oral anticoagulation (OR, 3.51; 95%CI, 1.44-8.54), revision or replacement of a previous device (OR, 2.75; 95%CI, 1.12-6.71) and the presence of more than 2 leads (OR, 3.42; 95%CI, 1.25-9.37). A predictive risk score was generated and denominated CIED-AI (Charlson Index, more than 2 leads/Electrodes, Device revision/replacement, oral Anticoagulation, previous Infection). This score had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.79 (95%CI, 0.71-0.88). CONCLUSIONS: The CIED-AI score may help to identify patients at higher risk of infection, who could be candidates for intensive preventive measures.

[Bayes' syndrome in cardiac surgery: prevalence of interatrial block in patients younger than 65 years undergoing cardiac surgery and association with postoperative atrial fibrillation]. / Síndrome de Bayés en cirugía cardiaca: prevalencia de bloqueo interauricular en menores de 65 años sometidos a cirugía cardiaca y su asociación con fibrilación auricular en el postoperatorio.

OBJECTIVE: Interatrial block (IAB) is a well-known entity that is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). This association is called Bayes' syndrome. The aim of our study was to define the prevalence of IAB among patients younger than 65 years undergoing cardiac surgery and determine whether there is an association between the presence of interatrial conduction delay and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). METHOD: A total of 207 patients were enrolled. Partial IAB was defined as P-wave>120ms. Advanced IAB was defined as P-wave>120ms+biphasic morphology in the inferior leads. Ocurrence of POAF was assessed and a comparative analysis was conducted between patients that did and did not develop AF. RESULTS: IAB prevalence was 78.3% (partial 66.2%, advanced 12.1%). POAF occurred in 28.5% of all patients, and was more frequent among patients with advanced IAB (44%) compared to 27.7% and 24.4% of POAF among patients with partial IAB and without IAB, respectively. Patients who developed POAF were significantly older, had significantly higher NTproBNP, higher prevalence of atrial enlargement and thyroid disease. After multivariate analysis, advanced IAB was found to be independently associated with POAF. CONCLUSIONS: IAB is a frequent finding among patients undergoing cardiac surgery. According to our results, advanced IAB is independently associated with POAF in younger patients (<65 years) undergoing cardiac surgery.

Síndrome de Bayés en cirugía cardiaca: prevalencia de bloqueo interauricular en menores de 65 años sometidos a cirugía cardiaca y su asociación con fibrilación auricular en el postoperatorio / Bayes' syndrome in cardiac surgery: prevalence of interatrial block in patients younger than 65 years undergoing cardiac surgery and association with postoperative atrial fibrillation

Resumen Objetivo: El bloqueo interauricular (BIA) es una entidad asociada con un mayor riesgo de presentar fibrilación auricular (FA), constituyendo el denominado síndrome de Bayés. El objetivo de nuestro estudio fue definir la prevalencia de BIA en pacientes menores de 65 años sometidos a cirugía cardiaca y determinar si existe una asociación entre la presencia de BIA y la aparición de FA postoperatoria. Método: Se incluyeron un total de 207 pacientes. Se definió BIA parcial como onda P > 120 ms. Se definió BIA avanzado como onda P > 120 ms con morfología bifásica en derivaciones inferiores. Se determinó la frecuencia de aparición de FA postoperatoria y se realizó un análisis comparativo entre los pacientes que presentaron y los que no presentaron esta arritmia. Resultados: La prevalencia de BIA fue del 78.3% (parcial, 66.2%; avanzado, 12.1%). La frecuencia de aparición de FA fue del 28.5% de forma global, siendo mayor en los pacientes con BIA avanzado (44%) comparado con pacientes con BIA parcial (27.7%) y sin BIA (24.4%). Los pacientes que presentaron FA fueron significativamente mayores, con niveles más elevados de NTproBNP y presentaron mayor prevalencia de dilatación auricular y de patología tiroidea. El análisis multivariable demostró una asociación independiente entre BIA avanzado y FA postoperatoria. Conclusiones: El BIA es una entidad frecuente en pacientes sometidos a cirugía cardiaca. En nuestro estudio, el BIA avanzado se asocia de forma independiente con una mayor frecuencia de FA postoperatoria en pacientes menores de 65 años sometidos a cirugía cardiaca.

Abstract Objective: Interatrial block (IAB) is a well-known entity that is associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). This association is called Bayes' syndrome. The aim of our study was to define the prevalence of IAB among patients younger than 65 years undergoing cardiac surgery and determine whether there is an association between the presence of interatrial conduction delay and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF). Method: A total of 207 patients were enrolled. Partial IAB was defined as P-wave > 120 ms. Advanced IAB was defined as P-wave > 120 ms + biphasic morphology in the inferior leads. Ocurrence of POAF was assessed and a comparative analysis was conducted between patients that did and did not develop AF. Results: IAB prevalence was 78.3% (partial 66.2%, advanced 12.1%). POAF occurred in 28.5% of all patients, and was more frequent among patients with advanced IAB (44%) compared to 27.7% and 24.4% of POAF among patients with partial IAB and without IAB, respectively. Patients who developed POAF were significantly older, had significantly higher NTproBNP, higher prevalence of atrial enlargement and thyroid disease. After multivariate analysis, advanced IAB was found to be independently associated with POAF. Conclusions: IAB is a frequent finding among patients undergoing cardiac surgery. According to our results, advanced IAB is independently associated with POAF in younger patients (< 65 years) undergoing cardiac surgery.

Estimulación multipunto mediante captura anódica del ventrículo izquierdo a través de un electrodo cuadripolar: evaluación hemodinámica no invasiva / Multipoint stimulation by means of anodal capture of left ventricle using a quadripolar lead: non-invasive hemodynamic evaluation

Introducción: Un elevado porcentaje de pacientes no responde a la resincronización. La captura anódica izquierda mediante estimulación a alto voltaje, permite una estimulación multipunto que podría aumentar la tasa de respondedores. Objetivo: Evaluar la viabilidad y eficacia hemodinámica aguda de estimulación a alto voltaje mediante el uso del electrodo cuadripolar Quartet 1458Q®. Métodos: Se incluyeron 18 pacientes consecutivos, con electrodo cuadripolar, en quienes se confirmó captura en el modo deseado mediante monitorización electrocardiográfica. Se compararon las diferencias hemodinámicas agudas de captura anódica (electrodos 1-cátodo- y 4-ánodo, máximo voltaje y anchura), biventricular y ventricular derecha. Mediante el Task Force Monitor, se hizo análisis hemodinámico agudo de presión arterial sistólica, diastólica y media, volumen latido e índice, gasto cardiaco e índice. Para cada variable se analizó el valor máximo, mínimo y promedio, durante fases estables de diez minutos. Resultados: Se analizaron 18 pacientes (5 mujeres-27,8%), con edad media de 67,2 anos ˜ (37-81); 33% con fibrilación auricular permanente y 39% con cardiopatía isquémica (sólo 5,6% ambas). La estimulación anódica aumentó significativamente el volumen latido e índice, así como el gasto cardiaco e índice en comparación con el modo biventricular [76,21 vs. 71,04 ml (p = 0,014); 40,67 vs. 37,88 ml/m2 (p = 0,018); 5,29 vs. 4,89 l/min (p = 0,007); 2,86 vs. 2,65 l/min/m2 (p = 0,007), respectivamente]. En el análisis por subgrupos, se concentró el beneficio en los pacientes en ritmo sinusal. Conclusión: La estimulación multipunto mediante captura anódica a través de un electrodo cuadripolar es factible, demostrándose así diferencias significativas en el volumen latido y gasto cardiaco, aunque limitado a la población en ritmo sinusal. © 2015 Sociedad Colombiana de Cardiolog´ia y Cirug´ia Cardiovascular. Publicado por Elsevier Espana, ˜ S.L.U. Este es un art´iculo Open Access bajo la CC BY-NC-ND licencia (http:// creativecommons.org/licencias/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Introduction: A high percentage of patients does not respond to resynchronization. Left anodal capture by means of high-voltage stimulation allows a multipoint stimulation that could increase the responders rate. Objetive: To assess viability and acute hemodynamic effectiveness of high voltage stimulation using the quadripolar lead Quartet 1458Q®. Methods: 18 consecutive patients with quadripolar lead were included. The capture was con- firmed by means of electrocardiographic monitoring. Acute hemodynamic differences of anodal capture were compared (lead 1-cathode and 4-anode, maximum voltage and width), biventricular and right ventricular. Using the Task Force Monitor an acute hemodynamic analysis of systolic, diastolic and average blood pressure, stroke volume and index, cardiac output and index was conducted. For each variable the maximum, minimum and average values were reached during ten minute stable phases. Results: 18 patients (5 women - 27.8%) were analyzed, with an average age of 67.2 years (37- 81); 33% with permanent atrial fibrillation and 39% with ischemic cardiopathology (only 5.6% with both). Anodal stimulation significantly raised the stroke volume and index, as well as the cardiac output and index compared to the biventricular mode [76.21 vs. 71.04 ml (p = 0.014); 40.67 vs. 37.88 ml/m2 (p = 0.018); 5.29 vs. 4.89 l/min (p = 0.007); 2.86 vs. 2.65 l/min/m2 (p = 0.007), respectively]. Subgroup analysis focused on the benefit for patients in sinus rhythm. Conclusion: Multipoint stimulation by means of anodal capture using a quadripolar lead is possible. This further proves significant improvement in the stroke volume and cardiac output, though limited to the population in sinus rhythm. © 2015 Sociedad Colombiana de Cardiolog´ia y Cirug´ia Cardiovascular. Published by Elsevier Espana, ˜ S.L.U. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)..