Therapy with high-dose statins reduces soluble P-selectin: The impact on plasma fibrin clot properties.

OBJECTIVE: Studies on the effect of statins on platelets in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) yielded inconsistent results. We sought to investigate whether high-dose statin therapy reduces plasma concentrations of soluble P-selectin (sP-selectin), a well-established platelet activation marker and if such changes can affect fibrin clot properties, which are unfavorably altered in CAD patients. METHODS: We studied 130 consecutive patients with advanced CAD who did not achieve the target LDL cholesterol on statins. At baseline and after 6-12 months of treatment with atorvastatin 80 mg/day or rosuvastatin 40 mg/day, soluble plasma sP-selectin, along with plasma fibrin clot permeability (Ks), clot lysis time (CLT), thrombin generation and fibrinolysis proteins were determined. RESULTS: Before high-intensity statin treatment, lower Ks and longer CLT values were associated with increased sP-selectin (ß -0.27 [95% CI -0.44 to -0.10] and ß 0.21 [95% CI 0.01 to 0.41]; both p < 0.05, respectively) also after adjustment for potential confounders. sP-selectin, alongside fibrin features and other variables at baseline showed no association with lipid profile. On high-dose statin therapy, there was 32% reduction in sP-selectin levels (p < 0.001). On-treatment change (Δ) in sP-selectin correlated with ΔKs and ΔCLT (r = -0.32, p < 0.001 and r = 0.22, p = 0.011, respectively), but not with cholesterol and C-reactive protein lowering. We did not observe any associations between post-treatment sP-selectin levels and lipids, fibrin clot properties or thrombin generation. CONCLUSIONS: High-dose statin therapy reduces markedly sP-selectin levels in association with improved fibrin clot phenotype, which highlights the contribution of platelet-derived proteins to a prothrombotic state in hypercholesterolemia and statin-induced antithrombotic effects.

Thromboprophylaxis in hospitalized COVID-19 patients: the efficacy and safety of the approved hospital protocol.

Introduction: Prothrombotic coagulopathy in COVID-19 has led to a strong recommendation for thromboprophylaxis in all hospitalized patients, although there are large differences in the dosage regimens among hospitals and their outcomes remain uncertain. Objectives: We aimed to determine the incidence of thrombotic events and bleeding in patients with COVID-19 using the approved local thromboprophylaxis protocol. Patients and methods: We adapted a self-developed pharmacological thromboprophylaxis protocol based on clinical and laboratory risk assessment of thrombosis in 350 consecutive patients (median age, 67 years) with confirmed COVID-19, treated in designated wards at a single center in Kraków, Poland from October 10, 2020, to April 30, 2021. We recorded in-hospital venous and arterial thromboembolic events, major or clinically relevant bleeding, and deaths along with other complications related to heparin administration. Results: Thromboprophylaxis with low-molecular-weight heparin was administered in 99.7% of patients, 57 (16%) were treated in the intensive care unit. As many as 92% of patients followed the protocol for more than 85% of hospitalization time. Thromboembolic events occurred in 16 patients (4.4%): venous thromboembolism (n = 4; 1.1%), ischemic stroke (n = 4; 1.1%), and myocardial infarction (n = 8; 2.2%). Hemorrhagic complications were observed in 31 patients (9%), including fatal bleeds (n = 3; 0.9%). The overall mortality was 13.4%. The prophylactic, intermediate, and therapeutic anticoagulation preventive strategies with heparin were not related to any of the outcomes. Conclusions: The thromboprophylaxis protocol approved in our institution was associated with a relatively low risk of thromboembolism and bleeding, which provides additional evidence supporting the adoption of institutional strategies to improve outcomes in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.

[Predictive parameters of occurrence of adequate interventions in patients with implanted cardioverter-defibrillators with or without resynchronisation therapy in primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in dilated cardiomyopathy]. / Parametry predykcyjne wystepowania adekwatnych interwencji u pacjentów z implantowanymi kardiowerterterami-defibrylatorami z lub bez funkcji resynchronizacji w prewencji pierwotnej naglego zgonu sercowego w kardiomiopatii rozstrzeniowej.

The task of the ICD is to detect ventricular arrhythmias and treatment of its adequate intervention. The task of the CRTD in addition to the above tasks is the treatment of heart failure. AIM: The aim of the study was to assess the predictive parameters of adequate interventions in patients with an ICD and CRTD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study consisted of 273 patients (230 M, mean age 65±11 years) with ICD and/or CRTD. The inclusion criteria were: left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 35%, NYHA class ≥ II, implantation in primary SCD prevention and in case of CRTD additionally LBBB with wide QRS ≥ 120ms. The following data were assessed: age, gender, presence of dilated cardiomyopathy, diabetes, chronic kidney failure, atrial fibrillation (AF), LVEF, NYHA class, device interventions, number of arrhythmias, changes in pharmacotherapy, device parameters and mortality. RESULTS: During observation, which lasted the mean of 770±490 days, 102 patients had adequate device interventions. In the ICD group, adequate interventions appear mainly in the initial observation period (HR 2,01), in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy (HR 2,98) and ventricular arrhythmias (HR 6,78) and not treated with amiodarone (HR 4,31). In the CRTD group, adequate interventions appear mainly in younger patients (HR 1,06), in diabetes (HR 1,68), in NYHA class II, in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (HR 1,09) and ventricular arrhythmias (HR 2,54) and not treated with amiodarone (HR 1,09). CONCLUSIONS: In the ICD group, left ventricular hypertrophy, ventricular arrhythmias is not treated with amiodarone in a significant influence on the risk of adequate intervention. In the Group of CRTD younger age, diabetes, NYHA class II, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmias is not treated with amiodarone in a significant influence on the risk of adequate intervention. In the ICD group, adequate interventions particularly often in the first year of follow-up. Patients with CRTD require special medical care.

[The evaluation of the ventricular arrhythmias and interventions of cardiac implantable electronic devices in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in ambulatory and telemetric follow-up]. / Ocena wystapienia arytmii komorowych i interwencji wszczepialnych urzadzen do elektroterapii serca u chorych na kardiomiopatie rozstrzeniowa w zapobieganiu pierwotnej naglego zgonu sercowego w obserwacji ambulatoryjnej i w kontroli metoda telemonitoringu.

Telemetric follow-up (RM) after cardiac devices implantation is not inferior to classic follow-up and enables earlier clinical complications detection. AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluation of the ventricular arrhythmias and interventions of ICD/CRTD in ambulatory and telemetric follow-up in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Group A (CRT-D+ICD) - retrospective, patients followed-up in outpatient clinic - was consisted with 273 patients (mean age 65±11 years, 230M). In group A 128 patients after CRT-D implantation and 145 patients with ICD were selected. Group B (RM group) - prospective, RM Medtronic Carelink followup - was consisted with 177 patients (mean age 61±13 years, 141M). 35 patients had CRT-D and 142 had ICD implanted. Follow-up of patients from group A was performed in outpatient clinic. Follow-up of patients from group B was monitored daily follow-up using RM system (Medtronic Carelink). Frequency/type of ventricular arrhythmias, device interventions, patient's clinical status, medications, were assessed in both groups. To assess presence of ventricular arrhythmias, device interventions, ICD and CRT-D programming changes, pharmacotherapy changes, patients were randomly chosen from group A, according to age, gender, LVEF value, NYHA class, comorbidities, time of follow-up as a control group to group B (RM group). RESULTS: In multivariate analysis, it was found that a low ejection fraction <25% (HR 0,929; p<0,001), and diabetes mellitus (HR 7,038; p<0,009) predispose to ventricular arrhythmias. In the RM group, compared to control group, there were significantly less programming changes (5,9 vs 47,1%, p<0,001), time to first events (ventricular arrhythmias - 258 vs 487 d, p<0,001; interventions - 295 vs 775 d, p<0,01) was shorter, while time to first necessary programming (364 vs 304 d, p<0,001) or pharmacotherapy (330 vs 244 days, p<0,001) change was longer. General mortality did not differ significantly between the groups (p=0,130). CONCLUSIONS: Low ejection fraction <25%, and diabetes mellitus predispose to ventricular arrhythmias. Telemetric follow-up of cardiac implantable devices enables quick information transmission in cases of clinical complications (arrhythmias, interventions) and reduces number of ambulatory visits to only necessary ones. Telemetric followup of cardiac implantable devices is a safe. Key words: ventricular arrhythmias, interventions.

[The assessment of factors influencing occurrence of adequate interventions of cardiac resynchronization therapy with cardioverter-defibrillator implanted in primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in dilative cardiomyopathy and percentage of biventricular pacing].

The assessment of factors influencing occurrence of adequate interventions of cardiac resynchronization therapy with cardioverter-defibrillator implanted in primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in dilative cardiomyopathy and percentage of biventricular pacing. Introduction: The function of cardiac resynchronization therapy with cardioverter-defibrillator (CRT-D) is to treat heart failure (HF) and to treat ventricular arrhythmia, if it occurs, with adequate intervention. Aim: The aim of the study was to find predictors of adequate interventions and in how many patients biventricular pacing percentage decreases during the follow-up. Material and methods: The study comprised of 228 patients (178 M, mean age 66±10, 31-89 years) with implanted CRTD. The following data were analyzed: age, sex, presence of dilative cardiomyopathy, diabetes mellitus, lowered creatinine clearance, atrial fibrillation (AF), LVEF, NYHA class, adequate interventions, number of arrhythmias, pharmacotherapy modifications, device parameters and mortality. Results: Mean ejection fraction of the left ventricle was 20.9±6.4, (10.0- 35%). During the mean follow up of 770±490 days in 84 (37%) patients adequate interventions of the device occurred. The adequate interventions concerned mainly patients with diabetes mellitus (HR 2.95), in NYHA class II, with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (HR 2.15). In 39 patients (17%) the mean percentage of biventricular pacing was below 90%, and in 18 (8%) below 85%. Conclusions: Diabetes mellitus, NYHA class II, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation have significantly increased the risk of adequate intervention. The most common causes of loss of biventricular pacing were: inappropriate AV delay, supraventricular arrhythmias and premature ventricular complexes. A significant correlation between low biventricular pacing percentage and the occurrence of supraventricular arrhythmias and adequate interventions was observed.

Patients with diabetes mellitus have better lipid profile results compared to the controls - a retrospective study on a group of patients hospitalized due to pulmonary embolism.

Background: Pulmonary embolism is a clinical manifestation of venous thromboembolism (VTE), also comprising deep vein thrombosis. It is considered to be a consequence of environmental and genetic factors. The number of predisposing risk factors is high. Some authors view VTE as a part of the cardiovascular disease continuum and suggest that cardiovascular disease risk factors such as the metabolic syndrome or diabetes mellitus may predispose to VTE. Aim: The analysis of patients hospitalized in the department of cardiology due to pulmonary embolism and a multifactorial comparison of 2 groups of patients i.e. with and without diabetes mellitus. Patients and Methods: A retrospective analysis of 11435 patient medical records from a 7-year period was performed. Patients with confirmed pulmonary embolism were enrolled for further evaluation. Sixty seven patients (36 women and 31 men), aged 70.3±13.3 (age range: 30- 93) were divided into two groups i.e. patients with and without diabetes. The statistical analysis of the obtained results was performed using SPSS 21 Software. Results: Statistically significantly higher total, LDL, and HDL cholesterol concentrations were observed in patients without diagnosed diabetes. Similar significant differences were not observed for other cardiovascular risk factors except for hypertension and obesity which was more frequent in diabetic patients. Conclusions: In patients with pulmonary embolism the prevalence of diabetes was related to lower total, LDL and HDL cholesterol concentrations. The differences between the groups may be explained by more intensive medical surveillance in patients with previously diagnosed diabetes.

[Arrhythmia, device interventions and mortality analysis in patients with implanted cardioverter-defibrillator with/without resynchronisation therapy in dilative cardiomyopathy in primary prevention of sudden cardiac death]. / Analiza arytmii, interwencji urzadzenia oraz umieralnosci w populacji chorych z implantowanym kardiowerterem-defibrylatorem i/lub z funkcja resynchronizacji z powodu kardiomiopatii rozstrzeniowej w prewencji pierwotnej naglego zgonu sercowego.

UNLABELLED: Ambulatory follow-up of patients with implanted cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) with/without resynchronisation therapy (CRTD) requires regular visits to assess arrhythmias, device interventions and mortality. AIM: The aim of the study was to examine arrhythmia prevalence, device interventions and mortality in patients with dilative cardiomyopathy with ICD/CRTD implanted in primary sudden cardiac death (SCD) prevention. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study consisted of patients with ICD and/or CRTD implanted between 2010-2011. The inclusion criteria were: left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 35%, NYHA class ≥ II, implantation in primary SCD prevention and in case of CRTD additionally LBBB with wide QRS ≥ 120ms. All of patients' visits in outpatient clinic were analysed. The following data were assessed: age, gender, presence of coronary artery disease (CAD), diabetes, thyroid gland diseases, chronic kidney failure, atrial fibrillation (AF), LVEF, NYHA class, device interventions, number of arrhythmias, changes in pharmacotherapy, device parameters and mortality. RESULTS: The study analysed 360 patients (302 M, mean age 64±12 years) with cardiac implantable devices (127 with CRTD, 233 with ICD). During observation, which lasted the mean of 768±491 days, 258 patients had ventricular arrhythmias and 118 patients had adequate device interventions. 10 patients died because of the progression of heart failure. Ventricular arrhythmia was more frequent in patients with CRTD, who died, with low cholesterol level, high NYHA class, low LVEF, diabetes and kidney failure. Device interventions occurred in the above described groups and additionally in patients with AF. After step exclusion of characteristics with highest p value in Wald test, it was confirmed that the factors influencing ventricular arrhythmia and death were low LVEF (HR=0,944, p<0,002 and HR=0,813, p<0,013) and diabetes (HR=7,043, p<0,009 and HR=29,931, p<0,002). CONCLUSIONS: Ventricular arrhythmia is more often in patients with CRTD, who died, with low cholesterol level, high NYHA class, low LVEF, diabetes and kidney failure. Adequate interventions are more often in patients who died, with low cholesterol level, high NYHA class, low LVEF, diabetes, kidney failure and AF. Patients who died, compared to those who survived, had significantly more often lipid level anomalies, high NYHA class, low LVEF, advanced age, diabetes, kidney failure, atrial fibrillation, arterial hypertension, device interventions and pharmacotherapy changes. Diabetes and low LVEF are predictors of ventricular arrhythmias and death.

[Safety and efficacy of classic ambulatory implantable cardioverter-defibrillator and resynchronisation systems follow-up compared to telemetric follow-up]. / Porównanie bezpieczenstwa i skutecznosci tradycyjnej kontroli ambulatoryjnej z kontrola metoda telemonitoringu wszczepialnych kardiowerterów-defibrylatorów oraz urzadzen resynchronizujacych serca.

UNLABELLED: Telemetric follow-up (RM) after cardiac devices implantation is not only not inferior to classic follow-up, but also enables earlier clinical complications detection and stricter patient monitoring. THE AIM: of the study was to confirm safety and efficacy of RM in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) or cardioverterdefibrillator with resynchronisation therapy (CRT-D), compared to traditional follow-up in outpatient clinic. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Group A (CRT-D+ICD) (retrospective, patients followed-up in outpatient clinic) was consisted with 273 patients (mean age 65±11 years, 230M). Group A included 128 patients after CRT-D implantation and 145 patients with ICD. Group B (RM group) (prospective, RM Medtronic CareLink follow-up) involved 89 patients (mean age 61±14 years, 73M). 11 patients had CRT-D and 78 had ICD implanted. Only patients with Medtronic equipment were included to group B. Follow-up of patients from group A - ambulatory visit in outpatient clinic: 1-3 months after implantation, then every 6 months. Follow-up of patients from group B - daily follow-up using RM system (Medtronic CareLink). Patient's clinical status, medications, frequency/ type of arrhythmias, device interventions were assessed in both groups. RESULTS: To assess presence of ventricular arrhythmia, device interventions, ICD and CRT-D programming changes, pharmacotherapy changes, a number of patients were randomly chosen from group A. They were similar in age, gender, LVEF value, NYHA class, comorbidities, time of follow-up (control group) to Group B (RM group). In the RM group, compared to control group, there were significantly less programming changes (3,4 vs 28,6%, p<0,001), time to first event was shorter (ventricular arrhythmia - 39 days, p<0,001; intervention - 102 days, p<0,001), time to first necessary programming change was longer (201 days, p<0,001). RM system proved to be save, more accurate (22% visits were performed personally by the physician operating Medtronic CareLink system, 71,4% consultations were performed via internet, phone), and general mortality did not differ significantly between the groups (p=0,147). CONCLUSIONS: Telemetric follow-up of cardiac implantable devices is a safe and more accurate method in comparison to classic ambulatory follow-up. Telemetric follow-up of cardiac implantable devices enables quick information transmission in case of clinical complications (arrhythmia, intervention). Telemetric follow-up allows to reduce number of ambulatory visits to only necessary ones.

[Ventricular arrhythmia and device intervention analysis in patients with implanted cardioverter-defibrillator with/without resynchronisation therapy in dilative cardiomyopathy in primary prevention of sudden cardiac death in telemetric follow-up].

Introduction: Remote monitoring of ICD/CRTD is safe, during which evaluates the type of arrhythmia, intervention. Aim: The aim of the study was the assessment of ventricular arrhythmia and ICD/CRTD intervention. Material and methods: The study included 177 patients (mean age 61,1±13; 23-88 y; Men 141) with an ICD/CRTD implanted. Patients were controlled telemonitoring system, Medtronic Carelink. The following variables were analyzed: age, gender, comorbidities, LVEF value, NYHA class, type of ventricular arrhythmias, device interventions, reprogramming and pharmacotherapy changes. Results: In multivariate analysis, it was found that, diabetes mellitus (HR 3,49), a low ejection fraction <25% (HR 2,51) predispose to ventricular arrhythmias; and a low ejection fraction <25% (HR 1,88), ischemic DCM (HR 1,92), II NYHA class, the lack of Amiodarone (HR 5,01) predispose to device intervention. Conclusions: 1. A low ejection fraction, ischemic dilative cardiomyopathy, II NYHA class, the lack treatment of Amiodarone predispose to ventricular arrhythmias. 2. A low ejection fraction, diabetes mellitus predispose to device intervention. 3. A significant correlation between interventions and ventricular arrhythmias, renal failure, diabetes mellitus, abnormal lipidogram were observed. 4. Telemetric follow-up of cardiac implantable devices is a safe and enables quick information transmission in cases of clinical complications (arrhythmias, interventions).

[Factors predisposing to the reprogramming of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and the causes of changes in pharmacotherapy in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death]. / Czynniki wplywajace na przeprogramowanie implantowanych kardiowerterów-defibrylatorów oraz powody zmian farmakoterapii u chorych z kardiomiopatia rozstrzeniowa w prewencji pierwotnej naglego zgonu sercowego.

UNLABELLED: Ambulatory care of patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) involves regular follow-up visit, where a decision on reprogramming of the device and modification of pharmacotherapy is made. AIM: The aim of the study was the assessment of frequency and reasons of reprogramming and pharmacotherapy changes in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy with an ICD implanted due to primary prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 143 consecutive patients with an ICD implanted in 2010-2011. The inclusion criteria were: left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF)≤35%, New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class≥II, implantation due to primary prevention of SCD. All ambulatory visits in outpatient department were investigated retrospectively. The following variables were analyzed: age, gender, presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and atrial fibrillation (AF), LVEF, NYHA class, presence of interventions, reprogramming and pharmacotherapy changes. RESULTS: The most common changes in ICD parameters were modification of detection and therapy of ventricular arrhythmias. Modification of pharmacotherapy were most often referred to B-blocker and cardiac glycosides. Patients with AF had more often parameters of bradycardia pacing changed (p=0,016). There was a significant correlation between number of interventions and total number of reprogramming (r=0,3 p<0,05). A negative correlation was found between LVEF and number of reprogramming of detection of ventricular tachyarrhythmia (r=-0,18 p<0,05) and between LVEF and number of interventions (r=-0,2, p<0,05). Patients with interventions and patients AF had more pharmacotherapy changes (82 vs 29, p<0,001 and 59 vs 52, p<0,01 respectively). A significant correlation was found between number of interventions and total number of pharmacotherapy changes (r=0,5 p<0,05) and between number of interventions and modification of pharmacotherapy with B-blocker, cardiac glycosides and introduction of amiodarone therapy (r=0,47; r=0,30; r=0,32 respectively, p<0,05). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with AF had more changes in ICD parameters, pacing parameters and pharmacotherapy. Patients with lower LVEF had more interventions and more changes in detection of ventricular tachyarrhythmia.

[Analysis of RF ablation treatment on quality of life in patients with cardiac arrhythmias]. / Analiza wplywu leczenia metoda ablacji RF na poziom jakosci zycia u pacjentów z zaburzeniami rytmu serca.

BACKGROUND: RF ablation is an acknowledged method of treatment for many arrhythmias. During the ablation procedure the cause of the arrhythmia is eliminated, which results in resolution of cardiac arrhythmia and related clinical manifestations and therefore removes restrictions in the functioning of the patient, which were associated with the presence of arrhythmias. AIM OF THE STUDY: Was to assess quality of life in patients undergoing RF ablation due to atrioventricular nodal reciprocating tachycardia--VNRT, atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia -AVRT and ventricular ectopic beats --EB's using the SF-36 questionnaire, DASI and Manolis. MMATERIAL AND METHODS The study included 81 patients (56 women and 25 men), who had undergone the RF abla-ion due to AVRT (24 patients), AVNRT (30 patients) or VEB (27 patients). Qual-ty of life was assessed using three questionnaires: the SF-36, DASI and Manolis that patient completed twice: on admission to hospital and after 6 months after ablation. RRESULTS The study showed im-rovement in all scales in the total study population. Subgroup analysis revealed that for each of the group score increased after ablation. The greatest improvement in scores (the biggest difference after-before) in the SF-36 was observed in patients with VEB. Our study found that the greatest improvement in quality of life after ab-ation in patients with a baseline larg-st number of additional ventricular beats (high negative correlation coef-icient -0.77; p <0 .0001 between point difference (after-before ablation) in the SF-36 questionnaire and the reduction of the amount of VEB's). There was no differences observed in improve-ent between patients with AVRT and AVNRT for the SF-36. CoONCLUSIONS Treatment of arrhyth-ias using RF ablation significantly improves the quality of life in patients with cardiac arrhythmias: AVNRT, AVRT, VEB. The largest improvement in quality of life refers to patients with VEBs. Among patients with VEB the greatest benefit had patients with baseline highest amount of ventricle extrasystoles.

[Electrocardiologic opportunities for the treatment of recurrent ventricular tachycardia on the example of a patient with arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia]. / Elektrokardiologiczne mozliwosci leczenia nawracajacych czestoskurczów komorowych na przykladzie pacjenta z arytmogenna dysplazja prawej komory.

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia is a genetic disease, in which pathologic fibrofatty tissue occurs mainly in the right ventricle of the heart. Changes in heart muscle predispose to arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation, so these patients are candidates for implantation of implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Furthermore, depending on the indication, RF-ablation is performed, which, due to changes in morphology of the heart muscle, are often difficult and of uncertain efficacy. In this paper we present a case of a patient with implanted cardioverter-defibrillator for primary prevention of sudden cardiac death. Initially, the patient experienced only complications related to the possession of the device, but due to the significant progression of the disease and symptoms, the device turned out to be necessary. In addition, the patient underwent complex electrophysiology procedures to control recurrent episodes of ventricular tachycardia. Treatment of cardiac arrhythmias in arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia is problematic both because of the inability to predict the course of disease in asymptomatic patients, as well as due to the difficulty of carrying out effective ablation of arrhythmia foci in morphologically altered myocardium.

[Quality of life in patients after anti-arrhythmic devices implantation]. / Jakosc zycia chorych po implantacji wszczepialnych urzadzén antyarytmicznych.

THE AIM OF STUDY: To assess changes in quality of life in patients with advanced heart failure before ICD or CRTD implantation and after 6 months follow-up period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The quality of life study was performed in group consisting of 98 patients (69 male, mean age 70.4 +/- 8.60 years), who underwent CRTD implantation (48 patients, 33 male, mean age 70.6 +/- 9.12 years) or ICD implantation (50 patients, 36 male, mean age 70.3 +/- 8.16 years) before the procedure and after 6 months of follow-up. Inclusion criteria were as follows: patients with indications to ICD or CRTD implantation, complete quality of life questionnaires before the procedure and after 6 months follow-up, lack of diagnosed dementia. The quality of life assessment was performed using patient's self-assessment with SF-36 and DASI questionnaires. Patients' self-assessment, NYHA class and ejection fraction was compared before the implantation and after 6 months. Additionally, co-morbidities and experiencing of high voltage therapy were analyzed. RESULTS: In the whole group after 6 months NYHA class improved from mean 2.9 +/- 0.5 to 2.3 +/- 0.84, p < 0.001; in CRTD group from mean 3.0 +/- 0.62 to 2.3 +/- 0.95, p < 0.001; in ICD group from mean 2.9 +/- 0.35 to 2.2 +/- 0.74, p < 0.001. In the whole group after 6 months ejection fraction improved from mean 27.7 +/- 6.92 to 31.0 +/- 7.23%, p < 0.001; in CRTD group from mean 25.3 +/- 7.85 to 32.4 +/- 8.98%, p < 0.001; in ICD group there was no significant improvement of ejection fraction. After CRTD implantation improvement of quality of life was achieved in SF36 and DASI questionnaires. There was no significant improvement in ICD group. DASI index is deteriorated by device's interventions (cardioversions) (regression index=3.45, odds ratio OR = 31.5, 95% confidence interval OR = 8.2-121, p < 0.001) and presence of permanent atrial fibrillation (regression index = 1,243, odds ratio OR = 3.45, 95% confidence interval OR = 1.03-11.7, p < 0.042). SF36 index is deteriorated by presence of kidney failure (regression index = 1.91, odds ratio OR = 6.74, 95% confidence interval OR = 1.75-26, p < 0.005) and permanent atrial fibrillation (regression index = 2.27, odds ratio OR = 9.7, 95% confidence interval OR = 3.1-29.6, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRTD) improves quality of life, NYHA class and left ventricle ejection fraction. Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) does not significantly improve quality of life, NYHA class or left ventricle ejection fraction. Only in the CRTD group a significant positive correlation between changes in DASI and SF36 indexes and left ventricle ejection fraction was achieved. Experiencing cardioversion/defibrillation from implantable device and co morbidities (diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, kidney failure, permanent atrial fibrillation) significantly deteriorate patients' self assessment of quality of life.

[Electrocardiogram in the cardiovascular rare diseases]. / Elektrokardiogram w rzadkich chorobach ukladu krazenia.

Electrocardiography is a method which can not be replaced by any other examination in arrhythmias. It also plays a crucial role in the diagnosis of arrhythmic rare diseases by providing not only diagnostic data, but also paving the way for treatment. This article presents some characteristic examples of ECG in arrhythmic rare diseases (i.e., polimorphic ventricular tachycardia, Brugada syndrome, Coumela syndrome, nonreentrant supraventricular tachycardia with double ventricular response).

[Analysis of P wave duration and dispersion in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation]. / Analiza szerokosci zalamka P i jego dyspersji w napadowym migotaniu przedsionków.

UNLABELLED: Some findings in standard electrocardiogram (ECG) may be associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of the study was to evaluate P wave duration and P wave dispersion (Pdysp) derived from 12-lead standard surface ECG in sinus rhythm in patients with history of AF in comparison to control subjects without AF and with premature ventricular ectopic beats (PVEB). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study group consisted of 20 patients (pts), 9M. 11F, mean age 47.6 +/- 5.5 years with paroxysmal AF. The control group consisted of 19 pts, 9M, 10F, mean age 46.7 +/- 4.7 years without history of AF with PVEB. All patients in both groups were treated with antiarrhythmic drugs. Left atrium dimensions (LA) in the transthoracic echocardiographic examinations (TTE) and maximal (P(max)), minimal (P(min)) wave duration and P(dysp) in a ECG recordings were analyzed. Pdysp was calculated as the difference between P(max) and P(min). RESULTS: ECG analysis showed statistically significant differences, study group vs control group in P wave duration and P(dysp). We found that in AF group P(max) and P(dysp) were significantly greater (125.5 vs. 114.5 ms, p < 0.005 and 59.5 vs 45.4 ms, p < 0.01, respectively). LA were significantly greater in AF group (43.7 vs 41.8 mm, p < 0.05). P(dysp) correlated significantly with P(mex) and LA. CONCLUSIONS: In AF patients, P wave duration and P wave dispersion, in other words atrial depolarization/repolarization inhomogeneity, were increased. A significant positive correlation between P wave dispersion and both Pmax and left atrium size were found.

[Effectiveness of RF ablation of ventricular ectopic beats from the right and (or) left ventricle]. / Ocena skutecznosci ablacji RF ekstrasystolii komorowej pochodzacej z prawej i (lub) lewej komory serca.

UNLABELLED: There are few studies on the immediate and long term efficacy of ablation of ventricular ectopic beat (VEB) using different mapping systems arrhythmia. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of intraoperative, immediate and late outcome of RF ablation ventricular arrhythmias and a comparison of methods for identification and ablation of arrhythmia substrate. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In 88 patients, average age 50,8+/-17,8 years old (16 to 90) with performed RF ablation of VEB from the left ventricular and (or) right ventricular. We retrospectively evaluated surgical reports and clinical records. The number of applications, energy, temperature, duration of application, impedance, radiation exposure to X-ray and the presence of obesity, myocardial infarction were evaluated. RF ablation was performed using the method of Carto or Carto and Pace mapping stimulation or Pace mapping stimulation alone. Patients were divided into 3 groups: group A - long result was positive after ablation, group B - treatment was ineffective, group C - ad hoc and postoperative result were positive but long result was negative. RESULTS: The observation time was 30+/-11 months (3-48). An ad hoc positive end point of VEB ablation was 86%, postoperative 74%, and a distant 60%, respectively. There was 13% ineffective treatments. Carto system was used in 53 patients. In 6 (11%, group B) treatment was ineffective, the remaining 47 patients achieved complete success in 31 (58%, group A) cases, while temporary success in 16 (30%, group C) cases. The relationship between the average temperature of 57 Celcius degree during ablation (HR = 1.148, regression = 0.138, p < 0.039) and the effectiveness of treatment was found. No statistical significance between the assessment of the effectiveness of ablation of arrhythmias and the location of the substrate were found but there was no statistical difference between the analyzed parameters and the technical and clinical effectiveness of ablation in the method of localization of arrythmia. The highest percentage of ablation failures in follow-up concerned the technique Carto alone (34%), the most effective was combined techniques adding Pace mapping plus Carto (76% succes rate long after ablation). CONCLUSIONS: To find substrate of arrhythmia to ablate operator should be guided by stimulation mapping and electroanatomical map in order to achieve distant effect of operation. The only significant parameter correlating with the distant ablation efficacy was the mean temperature of the ablation. While using Carto to ablate arrythmia most important role is played by the precise location of the arrhythmia substrate rather than increasing the temperature during ablation.

[The comparison of 4th, 5th and 6th year medical students knowledge of rules and practical skills in the interpretation of electrocardiograms at Jagiellonian University]. / Porównanie znajomosci zasad i umiejetnosci praktycznych interpretacji EKG studentów IV, V i VI roku kierunku lekarskiego Wydzialu Lekarskiego Uniwersytetu Jagiellonskiego Collegium Medicum.

INTRODUCTION: The electrocardiogram (ECG) examination is one of the most frequent administered diagnostic tests. It is commonly ordered by General Practitioners, and it has became a routinely administered examination during admission to the hospital. During their studies, medical students has numerous opportunities to review and interpret the results of these tests. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of our research was to statistically compare and contrast the knowledge of the rules and practical skills in the interpretation of ECGs in 4th, 5th and 6th year medical students at Jagiellonian University. We wanted to better define in which year the students acquire the most of their clinical skills and determine if 6th year students have sufficient knowledge and skills to adequately perform in their future career. We additionally wanted to understand from which source students draw their knowledge of the ECG. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The population of 249- 4th, 5th and 6th year medical students of Jagiellonian University were asked to reply to an anonymous questionnaire. The questionnaire was comprised of three parts. The fist part contains four simple ECGs (STEMI, RBBB, PVC, normogram--sinus rhythm). The second part contained six questions regarding their theoretical knowledge. The third part contained seven questions which evaluated the students' background and approach to the problem. Students filled the questionnaire without prior preparation to avoid the short-term "examination knowledge". RESULTS: The question that was most frequent answered correctly was question regarding the proper time (in milliseconds) of QRS complex (24.1%). Differences in the percentage of correct answers to questionnaire amongst 4th and 5th year students were statistically uncharacteristic. The percentage of correct answers of 6th year students increased by about 16% (p < 0.0001). The comparison of answers between 6th year students - who in prior semester completed a cardiology course (group A 6th year) and 6th year students who did not yet complete cardiology course (group B 6th year) showed significant improvement in group A in the percentage of correct answers for all questions about ECG. The percentage of correct answers in group A was an average 62% and in group B 45.5% (p < 0.00025). In case of 4th and 5th year students, the picture was uncharacteristic. Self study of ECG had a significant, positive influence in the percentage of correct answers amongst respondents, especially in the 6th year student population. Improvement was also seen in 4th and 5th students, but to a lesser degree. Among the 6th year students who benefited from self study, their percentage of correct answers was nearly two times then that of their fellow of 6th year students who did not self study (p < 0.0001). Only 3 of questioned students stated that they felt that their present knowledge of ECG is sufficient. CONCLUSIONS: 4th and 5th year students have comparable knowledge of ECG. 6th year students showed a significantly improved ability to interpret the ECG, especially those who had already completed cardiology course in present term. The increase in skills of interpretation of ECG is gained primarily by self study.

[Influence of increased mean heart rate at rest on mortality and ventricular tachycardia resulting in adequate intervention in patients after implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation]. / Wplyw zwiekszonej spoczynkowej sredniej czestosci serca na smiertelnosc i wystqpienie tachyarytmii komorowej wyzwalajacej adekwatna interwencje u chorych po zabiegu wszczepienia kardiowertera-defibrylatora.

INTRODUCTION: Increased heart rate at rest (HR) is a risk factor of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and cardiovascular mortality. AIM: Retrospective assessment of increased HR influence on mortality and ventricular tachycardia followed by adequate ICD intervention. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 350 patients (52 female, 298 male), mean age 65.1+/-10.1 years (22-89 years) with ICD without resynchronization function implanted between 2008 and 2010 were examined. ECGs at rest were used to determine HR. In case of atrial fibrillation, mean value of 2 shortest and longest RR intervals was calculated to determine HR. RESULTS: During the mean observation period of 387+/-300 days, 73 patients (66 male, 7 female), mean age 63.7+/-12.2 years (22-89) had an arrhythmial/intervention, and 46 patients (9 male, 37 feamle), mean age 68.8+/-10.3 years (43-86) died. To optimize sensitivity and specificity of HR, cut off point was established using ROC curve (79/min). Number of patients with HR>79/min was significantly higher (64.7% vs 19,1%, p<0.022) in the group of patients with arrhyth-mialintervention vs no arrhythmial/intervention, and in dead vs alive patients (73.9% vs 19.5%, p<0,001). Kaplan-Meier univariate analysis proved, that HR79/ min particularly predisposed to fast ventricular arrhythmias and interventions - CV (p<0.092). In Cox multivariate analysis, HR< or =79/min was a protective factor only in death risk (HR=0.2362, 95%CI=0.1094-0.5099, p<0.0002). CONCLUSIONS: An important factor increasing probability of survival without ventricular arrhythmia or death was a mean heart rate below 79/min. The cycle length of the baseline rhythm determine the arrhythmia cycle length.