Sincronia Ventricular na Estimulação Cardíaca Parahissiana: Alternativa por Ativação Cardíaca Fisiológica (Estimulação Indireta do Feixe de His)? / Ventricular Synchrony in Para-Hisian Cardiac Pacing as an Alternative for Physiological Cardiac Activation (Indirect Recruitment of the His Bundle?)

Resumo Fundamento A estimulação cardíaca artificial (ECA) por captura direta ou indireta do feixe de His resulta em contração ventricular sincrônica (ECA fisiológica). Objetivos Comparar sincronia cardíaca, características técnicas e resultados de parâmetros eletrônicos entre duas técnicas de ECA indireta do feixe de His: a não seletiva e a parahissiana. Métodos Intervenção experimental (novembro de 2019 a abril de 2020) com implante de marca-passo definitivo (MPd) DDD em pacientes com fração de ejeção ventricular esquerda > 35%. Foram comparadas a sincronia cardíaca resultante mediante algoritmo de análise eletrocardiográfica da variância espacial do QRS e as características técnicas associadas a cada método entre ECA hissiana não seletiva (DDD-His) e parahissiana (DDD-Var). Resultados De 51 pacientes (28 homens), 34 (66,7%) foram alocados no grupo DDD-Var e 17 (33,3%), no grupo DDD-His, com idade média de 74 e 79 anos, respectivamente. No grupo DDD-Var, a análise da variância espacial do QRS (índice de sincronia ventricular) mostrou melhora após o implante de MPd (p < 0,001). Ao ECG pós-implante, 91,2% dos pacientes do grupo DDD-Var mostraram padrão fisiológico de ECA, comprovando ativação similar à do DDD-His (88,2%; p = 0,999). O eixo do QRS estimulado também foi similar (fisiológico) para ambos os grupos. A mediana do tempo de fluoroscopia do implante foi de 7 minutos no grupo DDD-Var e de 21 minutos no DDD-His (p < 0,001), favorecendo a técnica parahissiana. A duração média do QRS aumentou nos pacientes do DDD-Var (114,7 ms pré-MPd e 128,2 ms pós-implante, p = 0,044). A detecção da onda R foi de 11,2 mV no grupo DDD-Var e de 6,0 mV no DDD-His (p = 0,001). Conclusão A ECA parahissiana comprova recrutamento indireto do feixe de His, mostrando-se uma estratégia eficaz e comparável à ECA fisiológica ao resultar em contração ventricular sincrônica similar à obtida por captura hissiana não seletiva.

Abstract Background Artificial cardiac pacing by direct or indirect His bundle capture results in synchronous ventricular contraction (physiological pacing). Objectives To compare cardiac synchronization, technical characteristics, and electronic parameters between two techniques of indirect His-bundle pacing: non-selective (NS-HBP) vs para-Hisian pacing (PHP). Methods The experimental intervention (between November 2019 and April 2020) consisted of implanting a DDD pacemaker in patients who had left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 35%. The resulting cardiac synchronization was compared using an electrocardiographic algorithm that analyzed QRS variation and the technical characteristics of non-selective Hisian pacing (DDD-His) and para-Hisian pacing (DDD-Var). Results Of 51 total patients (men: 28), 66.7% (34) were allocated to the DDD-Var group and 33.3% (17) to the DDD-His group. The mean ages in each group were 74 and 79 years, respectively. In the DDD-Var group, QRS variation (ventricular synchrony) improved after implantation (p < 0.001). In post-implantation ECG, 91.2% of the DDD-Var group presented a physiological pacing pattern, which was similar to the DDD-His group (88.2%; p = 0.999). The paced QRS axis was also similar (physiological) for both groups. Intraoperative fluoroscopy time (XRay) during implantation was lower for the para-Hisian technique (median 7 min in the DDD-Var group vs 21 min in the DDD-His group, p < 0.001). The mean QRS duration increased in the DDD-Var group (114.7 ms pre-implantation vs 128.2 ms post-implantation, p = 0.044). The mean post-implantation R-wave amplitude was 11.2 mV in the DDD-Var group vs 6.0 mV in the DDD-His group, p = 0.001. Conclusion Para-Hisian pacing appears to indirectly recruit the His bundle, which would make this an effective and comparable strategy for physiological pacing, resulting in synchronous ventricular contraction similar to that of non-selective Hisian pacing.

Echocardiographic prognostication of new onset heart failure in a cohort of ischemic heart disease patients / Pronóstico Ecocardiográfico de un nuevo evento de insuficiencia cardíaca en una cohorte de pacientes con Cardiopatía Isquémica

Background: Echocardiographic predictors for new onset heart failure in patients with ischemic heart disease with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF) or with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (HFpEF) in Ethiopian and Sub-Saharan African is not well-known.Methods: Two hundred twenty-eight patients with ischemic heart disease were retrospectively recruited and followed. Analysis on baseline clinical and echocardiographic characteristics of patients, and risk factors for new onset HFpEF and new onset HFrEF were done. The exclusion criteria were known heart failure at baseline and those who did not have echocardiography data.Results: During the follow up period, heart failure developed in 62.2% (61/98) of ischemic heart disease patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction and in 70.1% (92/130) of ischemic heart disease patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. We did not find significant difference between HFrEF and HFpEF in time to new onset heart failure. Systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, diabetes, left atrium and diastolic left ventricular dimension had significant association with new onset HFrEF on univariate regression analysis. Whereas new onset HFpEF was significantly associated with age, sex, presence of hypertension, Systolic blood pressure and diastolic left ventricular dimension. On cox regression analysis diastolic left ventricular dimension was associated with both new onset HFpEF and HFrEF. Age, diabetes, and dimension of left atrium were also associated with HFrEF.Conclusion: This cohort study in ischemic heart disease patients suggests a key role for the diastolic left ventricular dimension, left atrium size, diabetes, sex and age as predictors of new onset HFrEF and HFpEF. Strategies directed to prevention and early treatment of diabetes, dilatation of left ventricle and left atrium may prevent a considerable proportion of HFrEF or HFpEF.

Antecedentes: Los predictores ecocardiográficos de nuevos eventos de insuficiencia cardiaca en pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica con fracción de eyección ventricular preservada (HFpEF) o con fracción de eyección ventricular reducida (HFrEF) no son bien conocidos en la Africa etíope y subsahariana.Métodos: Doscientos veintiocho pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica fueron reclutados y seguidos retrospectivamente. Se realizaron análisis sobre las características clínicas y ecocardiográficas basales de los pacientes, así como los factores de riesgo para un nuevo evento de HFpEF y un nuevo evento de HFrEF. Los criterios de exclusión fueron insuficiencia cardíaca conocida al inicio del estudio y aquellos que no tenían datos de ecocardiografía.Resultados: Durante el período de seguimiento, la insuficiencia cardíaca se desarrolló en el 62,2% (61/98) de pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica con fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda preservada y en el 70,1% (92/130) de pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica con fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda reducida. No encontramos diferencias significativas entre HFrEF y HFpEF en el tiempo hasta la nueva aparición de insuficiencia cardíaca. La presión arterial sistólica, la presión arterial diastólica, la diabetes y las dimensiones de la aurícula iquierda y del ventrículo izquierdo en diástole tuvieron una asociación significativa con nuevos eventos de HFrEF en el análisis de regresión univariada. Mientras que un nuevo evento de HFpEF se asoció significativamente con la edad, el sexo, la presencia de hipertensión, la presión arterial sistólica y la dimensión ventricular izquierda diastólica. En el análisis de regresión de cox, la dimensión ventricular izquierda diastólica se asoció con HFpEF de nuevo inicio y HFrEF. La edad, la diabetes y la dimensión de la aurícula izquierda también se asociaron con HFrEF. Conclusión: Este estudio de cohorte en pacientes con cardiopatía isquémica sugiere un papel clave para la dimensión ventricular izquierda diastólica, el tamaño de la aurícula izquierda, la diabetes, el sexo y la edad como predictores de un nuevo evento de HFrEF y HFpEF. Las estrategias dirigidas a la prevención y el tratamiento temprano de la diabetes, la dilatación del ventrículo izquierdo y la aurícula izquierda pueden prevenir una proporción considerable de HFrEF o HFpEF.

Caracterización sociodemográfica, clínica y terapéutica de pacientes con falla cardiaca con fracción de eyección intermedia: cohorte MED-ICAi / Sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic characteristics of patients with heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction: MED-ICAi cohort

Resumen Antecedentes: Clásicamente, la falla cardiaca se ha clasificado en dos grupos, según tengan fracción de eyección preservada o reducida; no obstante, en fecha reciente se ha añadido el grupo de fracción intermedia, y aún existe gran desconocimiento sobre sus características fisiopatológicas y clínicas. Objetivo: Caracterizar el grupo de pacientes con fracción intermedia en cuanto a sus variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y de tratamiento. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, en el que se analizaron historias clínicas de pacientes con falla cardiaca hospitalizados por agudización en el periodo comprendido entre enero de 2015 y diciembre de 2017. Resultados: Se revisaron 1536 historias clínicas, de las cuales 864 cumplían los criterios de inclusión. El grupo con fracción intermedia correspondió a 83 (9.6%) pacientes, en quienes se encontró predominio del sexo femenino (53%) y una edad mediana de 77 años. La coronariopatía fue la etiología más frecuente (26.5%), mientras que la falta de adherencia a los medicamentos fue la causa principal de descompensación (14.5%). Los medicamentos más usados fueron los betabloqueadores y la furosemida, tanto al ingreso como al egreso. El grupo con mayor mortalidad fue el de fracción de eyección reducida (4.1%). La estancia hospitalaria, el ingreso y la estancia en la unidad de cuidados intensivos fueron similares en todos los grupos, independientemente de la fracción de eyección. Conclusiones: Los hallazgos son similares a los descritos en otras poblaciones internacionales y en algunas nacionales, y avalan la hipótesis de un fenotipo intermedio con un comportamiento etiológico semejante al de la fracción de eyección reducida.

Abstract Background: Classically, heart failure has been classified in two groups, depending on a preserved or reduced ejection fraction, but a mid-range ejection fraction group has been introduced recently, and there is still great ignorance about its physiopathological and clinical characteristics. Objective: To characterize this group of patients as for their sociodemographic, clinical and treatment variables. Method: We carried out a descriptive, retrospective study, by analyzing medical records from patients hospitalized with acute heart failure between January 2015 and December 2017. Results: We reviewed 1536 medical records of which 864 met the inclusion criteria. The mid-range ejection fraction group corresponded to 83 (9.6%) of patients, of which the majority were women (53%), with a median age of 77 years, coronary heart disease as the most frequent etiology (26.5%) and lack of adherence to medications as the main cause of decompensation (14.5%). The most frequently used drugs were betablockers and furosemide, both upon admission and discharge. Mortality was higher between patients with reduced ejection fraction (4.1%). Hospital stay, admission to and length of stay in an ICU, were similar between all groups regardless of ejection fraction. Conclusions: Our findings are similar to those described in previous international and national cohorts, and support the hypothesis of an intermediate phenotype with an etiology similar to that seen with a reduced ejection fraction.

Valor Prognóstico dos Níveis Plasmáticos de NT-proBNP em Pacientes Hospitalizados com Mais de 80 Anos de Idade em um Hospital em Pequim, China / Prognostic Value of Plasma NT-proBNP levels in Hospitalized Patients Older than 80 Years of Age in a Hospital in Beijing, China

Resumo Fundamento Apesar das evidências crescentes de que o peptídeo natriurético N-terminal pró-cérebro (NT-proBNP) tem um valor prognóstico importante em adultos mais velhos, há dados limitados sobre seu valor preditivo prognóstico. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar o significado clínico do NT-proBNP em pacientes hospitalizados com mais de 80 anos de idade em Pequim, China. Métodos Este estudo prospectivo e observacional foi conduzido em 724 pacientes muito idosos em uma enfermaria geriátrica (idade ≥80 anos, variação, 80-100 anos, média, 86,6±3,0 anos). A análise de regressão linear multivariada foi utilizada para rastrear os fatores independentemente associados ao NT-proBNP, e o modelo de regressão de risco proporcional de Cox foi utilizado para rastrear as associações entre os níveis de NT-proBNP e os principais endpoints . Os principais endpoints avaliados foram mortes por todas as causas e ECAM. Valores de p <0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significativos. Resultados As taxas de prevalência de doença cardíaca coronariana, hipertensão e diabetes mellitus foram 81,4%, 75,1% e 41,2%, respectivamente. O nível médio de NT-proBNP foi 770±818 pg/mL. Utilizando análises de regressão linear multivariada, foram encontradas correlações entre o NT-proBNP plasmático e índice de massa corporal, fibrilação atrial, taxa de filtração glomerular estimada, diâmetro do átrio esquerdo, fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo, uso de betabloqueador, níveis de hemoglobina, albumina plasmática, triglicérides, creatinina sérica, e nitrogênio uréico no sangue. O risco de morte por todas as causas (HR, 1,63; IC 95%, 1,005-2,642; p = 0,04) e eventos cardiovasculares adversos maiores (ECAM; HR, 1,77; IC 95%, 1,289-3,531; p = 0,04) no grupo com o nível mais alto NT-proBNP foi significativamente maior do que no grupo com NT-proBNP mais baixo, de acordo com os modelos de regressão de Cox após o ajuste para vários fatores. Como esperado, os parâmetros da ecocardiografia ajustaram o valor prognóstico do NT-proBNP no modelo. Conclusões O NT-proBNP foi identificado como um preditor independente de morte por todas as causas e ECAM em pacientes hospitalizados com mais de 80 anos de idade.

Abstract Background Despite growing evidence that N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) has an important prognostic value in older adults, there is limited data on its prognostic predictive value. Objectives The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical significance of NT-proBNP in hospitalized patients older than 80 years of age in Beijing, China. Methods This prospective, observational study was conducted in 724 very elderly patients in a geriatric ward (age ≥80 years, range, 80100 years, mean, 86.6 3.0 years). Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to screen for factors independently associated with NT-proBNP, and the Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to screen for relationships between NT-proBNP levels and major endpoints. The major endpoints assessed were all-cause death and MACEs. P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results The prevalence rates of coronary heart disease, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus were 81.4%, 75.1%, and 41.2%, respectively. The mean NT-proBNP level was 770 ± 818 pg/mL. Using multivariate linear regression analyses, correlations were found between plasma NT-proBNP and body mass index, atrial fibrillation, estimated glomerular filtration rate, left atrial diameter, left ventricular ejection fraction, use of betablocker, levels of hemoglobin, plasma albumin, triglycerides, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen. The risk of all-cause death (HR, 1.63; 95% CI, 1.0052.642; P = 0.04) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; HR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.2893.531; P = 0.04) in the group with the highest NT-proBNP level was significantly higher than that in the group with the lowest level, according to Cox regression models after adjusting for multiple factors. As expected, echocardiography parameters adjusted the prognostic value of NT-proBNP in the model. Conclusions NT-proBNP was identified as an independent predictor of all-cause death and MACE in hospitalized patients older than 80 years of age.

O Papel da Ecocardiografia sob Estresse na Detecção Precoce de Disfunção Diastólica em Pacientes com Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica Não Grave / The Role of Stress Echocardiography in the Early Detection of Diastolic Dysfunction in Non-Severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients

Resumo Fundamento A dispneia por esforço é uma queixa comum de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca com fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEP) e doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC). A ICFEP é comum na DPOC e é um fator de risco independente para a progressão e exacerbação da doença. A detecção precoce, portanto, tem grande relevância clínica. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo foi detectar a frequência de ICFEP mascarada em pacientes com DPOC não grave com dispneia aos esforços, sem doença cardiovascular manifesta, e analisar a correlação entre ICFEP mascarada e os parâmetros do teste cardiopulmonar de exercício (TCPE). Métodos Aplicamos o TCPE em 104 pacientes com DPOC não grave com dispneia aos esforços, sem doença cardiovascular evidente. A ecocardiografia foi realizada antes e no pico do TCPE. Os valores de corte para disfunção diastólica ventricular esquerda e direita induzida por estresse (DDVE/DDVD) foram E/e' >15; E/e' >6, respectivamente. A análise de correlação foi feita entre os parâmetros do TCPE e o estresse E/d'. Valor de p<0,05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados 64% dos pacientes tinham DDVE induzida por estresse; 78% tinham DDVD induzida por estresse. Ambos os grupos com estresse DDVE e DDVD obtiveram carga menor, V'O2 e pulso de O2 mais baixos, além de apresentarem redução na eficiência ventilatória (maiores inclinações de VE/VCO2). Nenhum dos parâmetros do TCPE foram correlacionados com E/e' DDVE/DDVD induzida por estresse. Conclusão Há uma alta prevalência de disfunção diastólica induzida por estresse em pacientes com DPOC não grave com dispneia aos esforços, sem doença cardiovascular evidente. Nenhum dos parâmetros do TCPE se correlaciona com E/e' induzida por estresse. Isso demanda a realização de Ecocardiografia sob estresse por exercício (EES) e TCPE para detecção precoce e manejo adequado da ICFEP mascarada nesta população. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(2):259-265)

Abstract Background Exertional dyspnea is a common complaint of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). HFpEF is common in COPD and is an independent risk factor for disease progression and exacerbation. Early detection, therefore, has great clinical relevance. Objectives The aim of the study is to detect the frequency of masked HFpEF in non-severe COPD patients with exertional dyspnea, free of overt cardiovascular disease, and to analyze the correlation between masked HFpEF and the cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameters. Methods We applied the CPET in 104 non-severe COPD patients with exertional dyspnea, free of overt cardiovascular disease. Echocardiography was performed before and at peak CPET. Cut-off values for stress-induced left and right ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD/ RVDD) were E/e'>15; E/e'>6, respectively. Correlation analysis was done between CPET parameters and stress E/e'. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results 64% of the patients had stress-induced LVDD; 78% had stress-induced RVDD. Both groups with stress LVDD and RVDD achieved lower load, lower V'O2 and O2-pulse, besides showing reduced ventilatory efficiency (higher VE/VCO2 slopes). None of the CPET parameters were correlated to stress-induced left or right E/e'. Conclusion There is a high prevalence of stress-induced diastolic dysfunction in non-severe COPD patients with exertional dyspnea, free of overt cardiovascular disease. None of the CPET parameters correlates to stress-induced E/e'. This demands the performance of Exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) and CPET for the early detection and proper management of masked HFpEF in this population. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(2):259-265)

Reliability and validity of six-minute step test in patients with heart failure

Exercise intolerance is the hallmark consequence of advanced chronic heart failure (HF). The six-minute step test (6MST) has been considered an option for the six-minute walk test because it is safe, inexpensive, and can be applied in small places. However, its reliability and concurrent validity has still not been investigated in participants with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Clinically stable HFrEF participants were included. Reliability and error measurement were calculated by comparing the first with the second 6MST result. Forty-eight hours after participants underwent the 6MST, they were invited to perform a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) on a cycle ergometer. Concurrent validity was assessed by correlation between number of steps and peak oxygen uptake (V̇O2 peak) at CPET. Twenty-seven participants with HFrEF (60±8 years old and left ventricle ejection fraction of 41±6%) undertook a mean of 94±30 steps in the 6MST. Intra-rater reliability was excellent for 6MST (ICC=0.9), with mean error of 4.85 steps and superior and inferior limits of agreement of 30.6 and -20.9 steps, respectively. In addition, strong correlations between number of steps and CPET workload (r=0.76, P<0.01) and peak V̇O2 (r=0.71, P<0.01) were observed. From simple linear regression the following predictive equations were obtained with 6MST results: V̇O2 peak (mL/min) = 350.22 + (7.333 × number of steps), with R2=0.51, and peak workload (W) = 4.044 + (0.772 × number of steps), with R2=0.58. The 6MST was a reliable and valid tool to assess functional capacity in HFrEF participants and may moderately predict peak workload and oxygen uptake of a CPET.

Deformação miocárdica (strain) e fibrose miocárdica na forma cardíaca leve da Doença de Chagas / Myocardial deformation (strain) and myocardial fibrosis in mild cardiac Chagas Disease

Fundamento: A identificação precoce do dano miocárdico parece ser importante na abordagem do paciente com doença de Chagas. A ecocardiografia com strain obtida por speckle tracking e a avaliação da fibrose miocárdica por meio da ressonância magnética cardíaca podem ser métodos diagnósticos promissores nesse sentido. Objetivo: Avaliar o acometimento miocárdico especificamente na forma crônica cardíaca leve da doença de Chagas por meio do strain por speckle tracking e da fibrose miocárdica pela ressonância magnética cardíaca, além de suas correlações. Método: Estudo de corte transversal que analisou portadores da forma cardíaca crônica leve da doença de Chagas (fração de ejeção preservada) submetidos à ecocardiografia com strain por speckle tracking e à ressonância magnética cardíaca. Resultados: Foram incluídos 21 participantes (mulheres: 62%; idade: 54 ± 5 anos). A prevalência de fibrose miocárdica por meio do realce tardio miocárdico foi de 50%. O strain longitudinal global encontrava-se diminuído em 17 pacientes (81%), com mediana de 14,1% (intervalo interquartil de 12,1 a 16,3). Os valores do mapa T1 encontravam-se, em média, elevados nos portadores de doença de Chagas (993 ± 163 ms). O mapa T1 foi significativamente correlacionado com o strain longitudinal global (r= 0,634; p = 0,015). Além disso, o índice de dispersão mecânica, obtido por strain, estava aumentado (> 55 ms) em 84%, com a maior área sob a curva Característica de Operação do Receptor (área sob a curva de 0,696; intervalo de confiança de 95% de 0,412-0,981) para discriminação de fibrose pelo realce tardio miocárdico. Conclusão: O strain miocárdico e o mapa T1 se comportam como marcadores precoces do dano miocárdico na cardiopatia chagásica crônica leve. O índice de dispersão mecânica estava elevado e foi o parâmetro que melhor se correlacionou com o realce tardio miocárdico. (AU)

Background: The early identification of myocardial damage seems important in the management of patients with Chagas disease. However, it is unknown whether speckle tracking echocardiography strain and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging are promising methods for assessing myocardial involvement and fibrosis, respectively. Objective: To evaluate myocardial involvement in the mild chronic cardiac form of Chagas disease using speckle tracking strain and myocardial fibrosis by cardiac magnetic resonance and assess their correlations. Method: This cross-sectional study analyzed patients with the mild chronic cardiac form of Chagas disease (preserved ejection fraction) using speckle tracking echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance. Results: The study included 21 participants (women: 62%; age: 54 ± 5 years). The prevalence of myocardial fibrosis was 50% on delayed myocardial enhancement. The median global longitudinal strain was decreased (14.1%; interquartile range, 12.1­16.3%) in 17 patients (81%). The mean T1 mapping value was high in patients with Chagas disease (993 ± 163 ms). The T1 map was significantly correlated with the global longitudinal strain (r = 0.634; p = 0.015). In addition, the mechanical dispersion index obtained by strain was increased (>55 ms) by 84%, with the largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (area under the curve, 0.696; 95% confidence interval, 0.412­0.981) for fibrosis discrimination by delayed myocardial enhancement. Conclusion: Myocardial strain and T1 mapping are early markers of myocardial damage in mild chronic Chagas heart disease. The mechanical dispersion index was high and the most closely correlated with delayed myocardial enhancement. (AU)

Impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease on linear and nonlinear dynamics of heart rate variability in patients with heart failure

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)-heart failure (HF) coexistence on linear and nonlinear dynamics of heart rate variability (HRV). Forty-one patients (14 with COPD-HF and 27 HF) were enrolled and underwent pulmonary function and echocardiography evaluation to confirm the clinical diagnosis. Heart rate (HR) and R-R intervals (iRR) were collected during active postural maneuver (APM) [supine (10 min) to orthostasis (10 min)], respiratory sinus arrhythmia maneuver (RSA-M) (4 min), and analysis of frequency domain, time domain, and nonlinear HRV. We found expected autonomic response during orthostatic changes with reduction of mean iRR, root mean square of successive differences between heart beats (RMSSD), RR tri index, and high-frequency [HF (nu)] and an increased mean HR, low-frequency [LF (nu)], and LF/HF (nu) compared with supine only in HF patients (P<0.05). Patients with COPD-HF coexistence did not respond to postural change. In addition, in the orthostatic position, higher HF nu and lower LF nu and LF/HF (nu) were observed in COPD-HF compared with HF patients. HF patients showed an opposite response during RSA-M, with increased sympathetic modulation (LF nu) and reduced parasympathetic modulation (HF nu) (P<0.05) compared with COPD-HF patients. COPD-HF directly influenced cardiac autonomic modulation during active postural change and controlled breathing, demonstrating an autonomic imbalance during sympathetic and parasympathetic maneuvers compared with isolated HF.

Estudo Comparativo da Doença Coronariana Microvascular Causada por Doença de Chagas e por Outras Etiologias / Chagas Cardiomyopathy as the Etiology of Suspected Coronary Microvascular Disease. A Comparison Study with Suspected Coronary Microvascular Disease of Other Etiologies

Resumo Fundamento A doença de Chagas (DC) constitui uma causa potencial negligenciada de doença microvascular coronariana (DMC). Objetivos Comparar pacientes com DMC relacionada à DC (DMC-DC) com pacientes com DMC ligada a outras etiologias (DMC-OE). Métodos De 1292 pacientes estáveis, encaminhados para angiografia coronária invasiva para elucidar o padrão hemodinâmico e a causa de angina, 247 apresentaram coronárias subepicárdicas normais, e 101 foram incluídos após aplicação dos critérios de exclusão. Desses, 15 compuseram o grupo de DMC-DC e suas características clínicas, hemodinâmicas, angiográficas, e cintilográficas foram comparadas às do grupo de 86 pacientes com DMC-OE. O nível de significância estatística para todas as comparações adotado foi de 0,05. Resultados Pacientes com suspeita de DMC-DC apresentaram características antropométricas, clínicas e angiográficas, além de alterações hemodinâmicas e de perfusão miocárdica estatisticamente comparáveis às detectadas nos 86 pacientes com DMC-OE. Disfunção ventricular diastólica, expressa por elevada pressão telediastólica do ventrículo esquerdo, foi igualmente encontrada nos dois grupos. Entretanto, em comparação a esse grupo com DMC-OE, o grupo com DMC-DC exibiu fração de ejeção ventricular esquerda mais baixa (61,1 ± 11,9 vs 54,8 ± 15,9; p= 0,049) e mais elevado escore de mobilidade da parede ventricular (1,77 ± 0,35 vs 1,18 ± 0,26; p= 0,02). Conclusão A cardiomiopatia crônica da doença de Chagas esteve associada à etiologia de possível doença microvascular coronariana em 15% de amostra de 101 pacientes estáveis, cujo sintoma principal era angina requerendo elucidação por angiografia invasiva. Embora os grupos DMC-DC e DMC-OE apresentassem características clínicas, hemodinâmicas, e de perfusão miocárdica em comum, a disfunção global e segmentar do ventrículo esquerdo foi mais grave nos pacientes com DMC associada à DC em comparação à DMC por outras etiologias. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(6):1094-1101)

Abstract Background Chagas disease (CD) as neglected secondary form of suspected coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD). Objectives Comparison of patients with CMD related to CD (CMD-CE) versus patients with CMD caused by other etiologies (CMD-OE). Methods Of 1292 stable patients referred for invasive coronary angiography to elucidate the hemodynamic pattern and the cause of angina as a cardinal symptom in their medical history, 247 presented normal epicardial coronary arteries and 101 were included after strict exclusion criteria. Of those, 15 had suspected CMD-CE, and their clinical, hemodynamic, angiographic and scintigraphic characteristics were compared to those of the other 86 patients with suspected CDM-OE. Level of significance for all comparisons was p < 0.05. Results Patients with suspected CMD-CE showed most anthropometric, clinical, angiographic hemodynamic and myocardial perfusion abnormalities that were statistically similar to those detected in the remaining 86 patients with suspected CMD-OE. LV diastolic dysfunction, expressed by elevated LV end-diastolic pressure was equally found in both groups. However, as compared to the group of CMD-OE the group with CMD-CE exhibited lower left ventricular ejection fraction (54.8 ± 15.9 vs 61.1 ± 11.9, p= 0.049) and a more severely impaired index of regional wall motion abnormalities (1.77 ± 0.35 vs 1.18 ± 0.26, p= 0.02) respectively for the CMD-OE and CMD-CE groups. Conclusion Chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy was a secondary cause of suspected coronary microvascular disease in 15% of 101 stable patients whose cardinal symptom was anginal pain warranting coronary angiography. Although sharing several clinical, hemodynamic, and myocardial perfusion characteristics with patients whose suspected CMD was due to other etiologies, impairment of LV segmental and global systolic function was significantly more severe in the patients with suspected CMD related to Chagas cardiomyopathy. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(6):1094-1101)

O Tratamento Medicamentoso Habitual é Suficiente para Manter o Controle da Frequência Cardíaca nos Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca? / Is Current Drug Therapy for Heart Failure Sufficient to Control Heart Rate of Patients?

Resumo Fundamento Estudos revelam que pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) e frequência cardíaca (FC) <70 batimentos por minuto (bpm) evoluem melhor e têm menor morbimortalidade em comparação com FC >70. Entretanto, muitos pacientes com IC mantêm FC elevada. Objetivo Avaliar se os pacientes acompanhados em ambulatório de cardiologia têm sua FC controlada e como estava a prescrição dos medicamentos que reduzem a mortalidade na IC. Métodos Foram analisados de forma consecutiva pacientes que passaram em consulta e que já acompanhavam em ambulatório de cardiologia, idade > 18 anos e com diagnóstico de IC e fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) <45%. Os pacientes em ritmo sinusal foram divididos em dois grupos: FC ≤70 bpm (G1) e FC >70 bpm (G2). Na análise estatística, foram utilizados os testes t de Student, Qui-quadrado. Foi considerado significante p <0,05. Utilizamos o programa Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) para análise. Resultados Foram avaliados 212 pacientes de forma consecutiva. Destes, 41 (19,3%) apresentavam fibrilação atrial ou eram portadores de marca-passo e foram excluídos desta análise; assim, 171 pacientes foram analisados. Os pacientes em ritmo sinusal tinham idade média de 63,80 anos (±11,77), sendo 59,6% homens e FEVE média de 36,64% (±7,79). Com relação à etiologia, a isquêmica estava presente em 102 pacientes (59,65%), enquanto a cardiopatia chagásica em 17 pacientes (9,9%); 131 pacientes eram hipertensos (76,6%), enquanto 63 pacientes (36,84%) eram diabéticos. Quanto à FC, 101 pacientes apresentaram FC ≤70 bpm (59,06%) G1 e 70 pacientes (40,93%) FC >70 bpm (G2). A FC média no G1 foi de 61,53 bpm (±5,26) e no G2, 81,76 bpm (±9,52), p <0,001. A quase totalidade dos pacientes (98,8%) estava sendo tratada com carvedilol prescrito na dose média de 42,14 mg/dia (±18,55) no G1 versus 42,48 mg/dia (±21,14) no G2, p=0,911. A digoxina foi utilizada em 5,9% dos pacientes no G1 versus 8,5% no G2, p=0,510. A dose média de digoxina no G1 foi de 0,19 mg/dia (±0,06) e no G2 foi de 0,19 mg/dia (±0,06), p=0,999. A maioria dos pacientes (87,72%) utilizou o inibidor da enzima de conversão da angiotensina (IECA) ou bloqueador do receptor da angiotensina (BRA), e 56,72% utilizaram espironolactona. A dose média de enalapril foi de 28,86 mg/dia (±12,68) e de BRA foi de 87,80 mg/dia (±29,80). A maioria dos pacientes utilizou IECA ou BRA e com doses adequadas. Conclusão O estudo revelou que 40,93% dos pacientes estavam com FC acima de 70 bpm, apesar de o betabloqueador ter sido prescrito para praticamente todos os pacientes e em doses elevadas. Outras medidas precisam ser adotadas para manter a FC mais controlada nesse grupo de frequência mais elevada. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(6):1063-1069)

Abstract Background Studies have shown that heart failure (HF) patients with heart rate (HR) < 70 bpm have had a better clinical outcome and lower morbidity and mortality compared with those with HR > 70 bpm. However, many HF patients maintain an elevated HR. Objective To evaluate HR and the prescription of medications known to reduce mortality in HF patients attending an outpatient cardiology clinic. Methods We consecutively evaluated patients seen in an outpatient cardiology clinic, aged older than 18 years, with diagnosis of HF and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 45%. Patients with sinus rhythm were divided into two groups - HR ≤ 70 bpm (G1) and HR > 70 bpm (G2). The Student's t-test and the chi-square test were used in the statistical analysis, and a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The SPSS software was used for the analyses. Results A total of 212 consecutive patients were studied; 41 (19.3%) had atrial fibrillation or had a pacemaker implanted and were excluded from the analysis, yielding 171 patients. Mean age of patients was 63.80 ± 11.77 years, 59.6% were men, and mean LVEF 36.64±7.79%. The most prevalent HF etiology was ischemic (n=102; 59.6%), followed by Chagasic (n=17; 9.9%). One-hundred thirty-one patients (76.6%) were hypertensive and 63 (36.8%) diabetic. Regarding HR, 101 patients had a HR ≤70 bpm (59.1%) and 70 patients (40.93%) had a HR >70 bpm (G2). Mean HR of G1 and G2 was 61.5±5.3 bpm and 81.8±9.5 bpm, respectively (p<0.001). Almost all patients (98.8%) were receiving carvedilol, prescribed at a mean dose of 42.1±18.5 mg/day in G1 and 42.5±21.1mg/day in G2 (p=0.911). Digoxin was used in 5.9% of patients of G1 and 8.5% of G2 (p=0.510). Mean dose of digoxin in G1 and G2 was 0.19±0.1 mg/day and 0.19±0.06 mg/day, respectively (p=0,999). Most patients (87.7%) used angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB), and 56.7% used spironolactone. Mean dose of enalapril was 28.9±12.7 mg/day and mean dose of ARB was 87.8±29.8 mg/day. The doses of ACEI and ARB were adequate in most of patients. Conclusion The study revealed that HR of 40.9% of patients with HF was above 70 bpm, despite treatment with high doses of beta blockers. Further measures should be applied for HR control in HF patients who maintain an elevated rate despite adequate treatment with beta blocker. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(6):1063-1069)

Diastolic dysfunction for nephrologists: diagnosis at the point of care

SUMMARY Cardiovascular diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality in the course of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Diastolic dysfunction (DD) may progress with the clinical manifestation of heart failure, known as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, a condition that precedes systolic dysfunction. The early identification of DD by echocardiography at the point-of-care before the appearance of symptoms and signs of pulmonary congestion and the implementation of appropriate treatment can improve the prognosis of CKD. This review article briefly addresses DD in kidney disease and presents a practical approach to the echocardiographic diagnosis of DD at the point of care.

SUMÁRIO As doenças cardiovasculares são causa importante de morbidade e mortalidade no curso da doença renal crônica (DRC). A disfunção diastólica (DD) pode evoluir com insuficiência cardíaca manifesta clinicamente, denominada insuficiência cardíaca com fração de ejeção preservada, e precede a disfunção sistólica. A identificação precoce da DD pela ecocardiografia "point of care", antes do aparecimento dos sintomas e sinais de congestão pulmonar, e a implementação de tratamento adequado podem melhorar o prognóstico da DRC. Este artigo de revisão aborda brevemente a DD na doença renal e apresenta uma abordagem prática para o diagnóstico ecocardiográfico da DD à beira do leito

Quantificação Semiautomática da Fração de Ejeção e Volumes do Ventrículo Esquerdo ao Ecocardiograma Bidimensional: Comparação com o Ecocardiograma Tridimensional Automático / Semiautomatic Quantification of Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and Volumes by Two-Dimensional Echocardiography: Comparison with Automatic Three-Dimensional Echocardiography

Fundamento: A fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo é um dos parâmetros ecocardiográficos mais utilizados na prática clínica. Sua estimativa pelo método bidimensional manual (método de Simpson) tem reprodutibilidade e acurácia limitadas, e métodos semiautomáticos têm sido propostos. Torna-se necessário comparar o método bidimensional semiautomático com métodos mais acurados de avaliação da fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo, como a medida pela ecocardiografia tridimensional automática. Objetivo: Comparar as estimativas da fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo e dos volumes diastólico final e sistólico final do ventrículo esquerdo pelo método bidimensional semiautomático com as obtidas pelo método tridimensional automático. Método: Estudo observacional transversal, com pacientes em ritmo sinusal, fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo >50% e sem cardiopatia estrutural significativa, submetidos ao ecocardiograma transtorácico. Teste t de Student, coeficiente de Pearson e análise de Bland-Altman foram usados na análise estatística. Resultados: Foram incluídos 40 pacientes, sendo: 53% mulheres, 35% hipertensos, 25% dislipidêmicos, 10% diabéticos, 10% tabagistas e 13% com angioplastia prévia. Os valores médios da fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo aos métodos tri e bidimensionais foram 62,1 ± 5,8% e 61,7 ± 5,9% (p = 0,50), respectivamente. Houve forte correlação da fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo determinada melos métodos bi e tridimensional (r = 0,74; p<0,001), assim como com o volume diastólico final (r = 0,75; p<0,001) e o sistólico final (r = 0,76; p<0,001). Houve boa concordância entre a fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo bi e tridimensional (diferença média: -0,39; intervalo de confiança 95% -1,7-0,9). Conclusão: A fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo estimada pelo método bidimensional semiautomático mostrou boa concordância com o método tridimensional automático. Os achados sugerem que o método bidimensional semiautomático represente uma alternativa confiável para avaliação dos volumes e fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo.

Background: Left ventricular ejection fraction is one of the most used echocardiographic parameters in clinical practice. Its estimation by twodimensional manual method (Simpson method) has limited reproducibility and accuracy, and semi-automatic methods have been proposed. It becomes necessary to compare the semiautomatic two-dimensional method with more accurate methods of assessing left ventricular ejection fraction, such as measurement by automatic three-dimensional echocardiography. Objective: To compare the left ventricular ejection fraction, and left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes estimates by the semiautomatic two-dimensional method with those obtained using the automatic three-dimensional method. Method: Observational cross-sectional study, including patients in sinus rhythm, left ventricular ejection fraction > 50% and without significant structural heart disease, submitted to transthoracic echocardiography. Student's t test, Pearson's coefficient and Bland-Altman analysis wer

Melhora no Consumo Máximo de Oxigênio e na Ventilação após Tratamento com Sacubitril-Valsartana / Maximal Oxygen Uptake and Ventilation Improvement Following Sacubitril-Valsartan Therapy

Resumo Fundamento O tratamento com sacubitril-valsartana teve seu benefício prognóstico confirmado no ensaio PARADIGM-HF. No entanto, dados sobre alterações no teste de esforço cardiopulmonar (TECP) com o uso de sacubitril-valsartana são escassos. Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar os parâmetros do TECP antes e depois do tratamento com sacubitril-valsartana. Métodos Avaliação prospectiva de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) crônica e fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo ≤40%, mesmo sob terapia padrão otimizada, que iniciaram tratamento com sacubitril-valsartana, sem expectativa de tratamentos adicionais para a IC. Os dados do TECP foram coletados na semana anterior e 6 meses depois do tratamento com sacubitril-valsartana. Diferenças estatísticas com valor p <0,05 foram consideradas significativas. Resultados De 42 pacientes, 35 (83,3%) completaram o seguimento de 6 meses, uma vez que 2 (4,8%) morreram e 5 (11,9%) interromperam o tratamento devido a eventos adversos. A média de idade foi de 58,6±11,1 anos. A classe NYHA (classificação da New York Heart Association) melhorou em 26 (74,3%) pacientes. O consumo máximo de oxigênio (VO2max) (14,4 vs. 18,3 ml/kg/min, p<0,001), a inclinação VE/VCO2 (36,7 vs. 31,1, p<0,001) e a duração do exercício (487,8 vs. 640,3 s, p<0,001) também melhoraram com o uso de sacubitril-valsartana. O benefício foi mantido mesmo com a dose de 24/26 mg (13,5 vs. 19,2 ml/kg/min, p=0,018) de sacubitril-valsartana, desde que esta tenha sido a maior dose tolerada. Conclusões O tratamento com sacubitril-valsartana está associado a uma melhora acentuada do VO2max, da inclinação VE/VCO2 e da duração do exercício no TECP. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Abstract Background Sacubitril/valsartan had its prognosis benefit confirmed in the PARADIGM-HF trial. However, data on cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) changes with sacubitril-valsartan therapy are scarce. Objective This study aimed to compare CPET parameters before and after sacubitril-valsartan therapy. Methods Prospective evaluation of chronic heart failure (HF) patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40% despite optimized standard of care therapy, who started sacubitril-valsartan therapy, expecting no additional HF treatment. CPET data were gathered in the week before and 6 months after sacubitril-valsartan therapy. Statistical differences with a p-value <0.05 were considered significant. Results Out of 42 patients, 35 (83.3%) completed the 6-month follow-up, since 2 (4.8%) patients died and 5 (11.9%) discontinued treatment for adverse events. Mean age was 58.6±11.1 years. New York Heart Association class improved in 26 (74.3%) patients. Maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) (14.4 vs. 18.3 ml/kg/min, p<0.001), VE/VCO2slope (36.7 vs. 31.1, p<0.001), and exercise duration (487.8 vs. 640.3 sec, p<0.001) also improved with sacubitril-valsartan. Benefit was maintained even with the 24/26 mg dose (13.5 vs. 19.2 ml/kg/min, p=0.018) of sacubitril-valsartan, as long as this was the highest tolerated dose. Conclusions Sacubitril-valsartan therapy is associated with marked CPET improvement in VO2max, VE/VCO2slope, and exercise duration. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Peripheral vs. central cannulation in cardiac reoperations: technical considerations and outcomes

Abstract Objective: To compare peripheral and central cannulation techniques in cardiac reoperation. Methods: This retrospective study included 258 patients undergoing cardiac reoperation between January 2013 and July 2018. Patients were divided into two groups according to the cannulation type. The first group included 145 (56.2%) patients operated with standard central cannulation through aorta and right atrium or bicaval cannulation. In this group, cardiopulmonary bypass was instituted after sternotomy. The second group consisted of 113 (43.8%) patients operated with peripheral cannulation through femoral artery, vein, and internal jugular vein. In this group, cardiopulmonary bypass was started before sternotomy and after systemic heparinisation. The two groups' operative complications and postoperative outcomes were compared. Results: Procedure-related injury was higher in the central cannulation group than in the peripheral cannulation group (8.3% vs. 1.8%, respectively, P=0.038). Cardiopulmonary bypass time was shorter in the central cannulation group (P=0.008) and total operation time was similar between the groups (P=0.115). Postoperative red blood cell requirement was higher with central cannulation (P=0.004). Operative mortality (2.8% vs. 0, P=0.186), hospital mortality (4.3% vs. 2.7%, P=0.523), and one-year survival rate (90.3% vs. 94.7%, P=0.202) were similar between the groups. Conclusion: Peripheral cannulation reduces cardiac injury and blood transfusion in cardiac reoperation. The cannulation type does not affect postoperative complication, mortality, and one-year survival.

Cardiotoxicidad en una Cohorte de pacientes con Diagnóstico de Cáncer de Mama que Recibieron Quimioterapia con Antraciclinas. Seguimiento a 12 años / Cardiotoxicity in a Cohort of Patients Diagnosed with Breast Cancer Who Received Anthracycline Chemotherapy. 12-year follow-up

Introducción: Los esquemas de quimioterapia en el tratamiento de cáncer de mama incluyen Antraciclinas con una efectividad de respuesta alta, sin embargo en algunos casos el potencial efecto terapéutico se ve limitado por la Cardiomiopatía Inducida por Antraciclinas (CIPA).El objetivo del estudio fue establecer la prevalencia longitudinal de esta entidad. Métodos:Este estudiolongitudinalfue realizado en el Instituto Oncológico Nacional "Dr.Juan Tanca Marengo" -SOLCA-Guayaquil. El período de exposición fue abril a diciembredel 2008,laobservación terminó enjunio 2020.Seincluyó mujeres con cáncer de mama, en tratamiento con antraciclinas, clasificadas por riesgo Cardiovascular de Framingham Bajo (A), moderado (B) y alto (C).Se midió lasalteraciones electrocardiográficas (AEKG) basales, a las 6 y 24 horas.Desarrollo de CIPA en seguimiento a 12 años.La muestra fue no probabilística tipo censo. Se utiliza estadística descriptivacon Intervalo de confianza para proporciones. Resultados: Ingresaron al estudio 50 casos son AEKG. El desarrollo de AEKG a 6 horas en 18/50 casos (36% IC95% 34.1-37.9%), estas AEKG persistieron hasta las 24 horas. Las AEKG se presentaron en un 18.5% en mujeres con Riesgo A, 52.4% enRiesgo B y 100%en Riesgo C. El desarrollo de CIPA a12 años fue de 3.6% (2.3-4.9%) en CIPA-Subaguda y de 7.1% (5.3-9.0%)en CIPA crónica. CIPA Subaguda+ crónica 10.7% (8.6-12.9%). Conclusiones: los eventos de cardiotoxicidad aguda fueron detectados por AEKG,en el seguimiento a largo plazo laCIPAsedesarrollóen un porcentaje un poco mayor a la literatura reportada.

Introduction:Chemotherapy regimens in the treatment of breast cancer include Anthracyclines with a high response effectiveness, however in some cases the potential therapeutic effect is limited by Anthracycline Induced Cardiomyopathy (CIPA). The objective of the study was to establish the longitudinal prevalence of this entity. Methods: This longitudinal, observational study was conducted at the National Oncological Institute "Dr. Juan Tanca Marengo "-SOLCA-Guayaquil. The exposure period was April to December 2008. The observation period ended on June 30, 2020. It included women> 18 years with breast cancer, treated with anthracyclines, classified by Framingham Cardiovascular Risk as Low Risk (A) , moderate risk (B) and high risk (C). Electrocardiographic abnormalities (AEKG) were measured at baseline, at 6 hours and at 24 hours and development of CIPA at 12-yearfollow-up. The sample was non-probabilistic, census type. Descriptive statistics with confidence interval for proportions are used. Results: Fifty cases entered the study are AEKG. The development of AEKG at 6 hours in 18/50 cases (36% 95% CI 34.1-37.9%),these AEKG persisted until 24 hours. AEKG were presented in 18.52% in women with Risk A, 52.38% in Risk B and 100% in Risk C. The development of CIPA at 12 years was 3.57% (2.27-4.87%) in CIPA-Subacute and 7.14 % (5.34-8.95% in chronic CIPA. Subacute + chronic CIPA 10.71% (8.55-12.88%). Conclusions: In this study it is concluded that acute cardiotoxicity events were detected by electrocardiographic changes and that in the long-term follow-up they were evident in a slightly higher percentage than that reported in the international literature.

Prognostic Prediction of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test Parameters in Heart Failure Patients with Atrial Fibrillation / Previsão Prognóstica dos Parâmetros do Teste de Esforço Cardiopulmonar em Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca e Fibrilação Atrial

Abstract Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased mortality in heart failure (HF) patients. Objective: To evaluate whether the risk of AF patients can be precisely stratified by relation with cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) cut-offs for heart transplantation (HT) selection. Methods: Prospective evaluation of 274 consecutive HF patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤ 40%. The primary endpoint was a composite of cardiac death or urgent HT in 1-year follow-up. The primary endpoint was analysed by several CPET parameters for the highest area under the curve and for positive (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) in AF and sinus rhythm (SR) patients to detect if the current cut-offs for HT selection can precisely stratify the AF group. Statistical differences with a p-value <0.05 were considered significant. Results: There were 51 patients in the AF group and 223 in the SR group. The primary outcome was higher in the AF group (17.6% vs 8.1%, p = 0.038). The cut-off value of pVO2 for HT selection showed a PPV of 100% and an NPV of 95.5% for the primary outcome in the AF group, with a PPV of 38.5% and an NPV of 94.3% in the SR group. The cut-off value of VE/VCO2 slope showed lower values of PPV (33.3%) and similar NPV (92.3%) to pVO2 results in the AF group. Conclusion: Despite the fact that AF carries a worse prognosis for HF patients, the current cut-off of pVO2 for HT selection can precisely stratify this high-risk group.

Resumo Fundamento: A fibrilação atrial (FA) está associada ao aumento da mortalidade em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC). Objetivo: Avaliar se o risco de pacientes com FA pode ser estratificado com precisão em relação aos pontos de corte do teste de esforço cardiopulmonar (TECP) para seleção do transplante cardíaco (TC). Métodos: Avaliação prospectiva de 274 pacientes consecutivos com IC com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo ≤ 40%. O endpoint primário foi um composto de morte cardíaca ou TC urgente no seguimento de 1 ano. O endpoint primário foi analisado através de vários parâmetros do TECP para a maior área sob a curva e para o valor preditivo positivo (VPP) e negativo (VPN) em pacientes com FA e ritmo sinusal (RS) para detectar se os atuais pontos de corte para a seleção de TC podem estratificar com precisão o grupo com FA. Diferenças estatísticas com valor de p < 0,05 foram consideradas significativas. Resultados: Havia 51 pacientes no grupo de FA e 223 no grupo RS. O endpoint primário foi maior no grupo FA (17,6% vs. 8,1%, p = 0,038). O valor de corte de pVO2 para a seleção do TC mostrou um VPP de 100% e um VPN de 95,5% para o endpoint primário no grupo FA, com um VPP de 38,5% e um VPN de 94,3% no grupo RS. O valor de corte da inclinação VE/VCO2 apresentou valores mais baixos de VPP (33,3%) e valor semelhante de VPN (92,3%) aos resultados de pVO2 no grupo FA. Conclusões: Apesar do fato de a FA apresentar um pior prognóstico para os pacientes com IC, o atual ponto de corte de pVO2 para a seleção de TC pode estratificar com precisão esse grupo de alto risco.

Influence of bentall procedure on left ventricular function

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the influence of Bentall procedure on left ventricular function and condition on long-term follow-up. Methods: Seventy-three consecutive patients who underwent an aortic root and ascending aorta replacement with composite valve button Bentall or flanged Bentall technique, from January 2007 to November 2018, were included in this retrospective study. Results: Postoperative left ventricular ejection fraction significantly increased (52.14±11.38 vs. 56.79±11.36; P=0.041), left ventricular end-systolic diameter significantly reduced (38.25±9.31 mm vs. 34.17±9.15 mm; P=0.027), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter significantly reduced (56.42±9.72 mm vs. 51.58±9.03 mm; P=0.01), and left atrial diameter significantly reduced (45.33±12.77 mm vs. 39.25±12.41 mm; P=0.01), compared to preoperative values. Our long-term survival results are comparable with previous studies in which survival rates in 5 years and 10 years were 83.5% and 69.8%, respectively. In comparing patients according to their New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, it was shown that their postoperative functional capacity was improved during the follow-up period (2.1±0.56 vs. 1.2±0.42; P=0.001). Conclusion: The Bentall procedure significantly improved the left ventricular systolic function and condition and decreased the left ventricular end-systolic and end-diastolic diameters and the left atrial diameter on long-term follow-up, based on the transthoracic echocardiography. Bentall procedure can be performed with acceptable mortality and morbidity rates on long-term follow-up.

Thoracoscopic pulmonary vein and left atrial posterior wall isolation combined with left atrial appendage resection in patients with long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a modified technique for totally thoracoscopic left atrial posterior wall and pulmonary vein isolation in patients with long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation. Methods: From April 2017 to December 2018, we included in this study 28 consecutive patients who underwent thoracoscopic left atrial posterior wall and pulmonary vein radiofrequency isolation combined with left atrial appendage resection. We used a device with irrigated electrodes (Medtronic Cardioblate Gemini-s). The original surgical technique "GALAXY" proposed by Doty in 2012 was modified. The number of ablations was significantly increased, and frequent position changing of the ablation device and change of device angulation were added. Results: Sinus rhythm was restored in all patients. There was no operative mortality, no myocardial infarction, and no stroke or transient ischemic attack. One patient required sternotomy and another survived left anterolateral thoracotomy due to bleeding. A 180-day follow-up (24-hour Holter monitoring) revealed no sign of recurrence of atrial fibrillation or other supraventricular arrhythmia in any patient. Mean follow-up was nine months (range: 6-16 months). At the last follow-up, 26 patients (92,9%) were in sinus rhythm (24-hour Holter monitoring). Conclusion: A frequent ablation device position changing during the surgery makes it possible to achieve complete left atrial posterior wall and pulmonary veins isolation. An increased number of applications allows to avoid a false positive transmural damage assessment showed by impedance drop. Also, frequent position changing of the ablation device and increased number of applications do not affect the number of postoperative complications.

Hemodynamic and imaging assessment of transcatheter aortic valve replacement with the inovare® proseal using multislice computed tomography

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the hemodynamic performance (i.e., gradients and paravalvular leakage [PVL]) of the new and experimental Braile Inovare® Proseal. Additionally, we aimed to assess pre and postoperatively the aortic annulus and the transcatheter prosthesis using multislice computed tomography (MSCT). Methods: Patients were selected by a multidisciplinary heart team and referred for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). MSCT was performed before and after surgery. Measurements of the aortic valve and prosthesis were conducted and correlated with the valve gradient and residual PVL. Results: Twenty-one patients were selected for the protocol. Patients had a mean age of 79 years and 38% of them were of female sex. The mean EuroSCORE II value was 12.5%±10.8. Mean gradient was reduced from 45.8±11.04 mmHg to 5.59±2.61 mmHg and there were no instances of PVL worse than mild. There were no cases of coronary obstruction or procedural death. Circularity was present in all prostheses evaluated. Circularity indexes for the prostheses were: inflow 0.05±0.03, middle third 0.04±0.02, and outflow 0.04±0.02 (P=0.08). The mean distance between the prosthesis and the left and right coronary ostia were 14.8 mm±3.3 and 17.3 mm±3, respectively. Oversizing was appropriate with a mean of 22.14%±6%. Conclusion: Braile Inovare® Proseal transcatheter device has demonstrated low gradients with low rates of PVL. Oversizing by annular measurements was adequate. MSCT was adequate to evaluate device sizing and has demonstrated preserved expansibility and circularity in the evaluated cases.

Is the newly defined r2cha2ds2-vasc score a predictor for late mortality in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement?

Abstract Objective: To assess the performance of the modified R2CHA2DS2-VASc score for predicting mid-to-long-term mortality (> 30 days) in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Methods: Data of 78 patients who underwent TAVR were retrospectively reviewed. R2CHA2DS2-VASc score was compared with the European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation II (EuroSCORE II or ES II) and the transcatheter valve therapytranscatheter aortic valve replacement (TVT-TAVR) risk score. Results: The mean follow-up period was 17.4±9.9 months (maximum 37 months). Early mortality (first 30 days) was observed in 10 (12.8%) patients, whereas mid-to-long-term mortality (> 30 days) was observed in 26 (33.3%) patients. Non-survivors had higher values of R2CHA2DS2-VASc, ES II, and TAVR scores than survivors (P<0.001, P<0.001, and P=0.001, respectively). Analysis of Pearson's correlation revealed that R2CHA2DS2-VASc score was moderately correlated with ES II and TAVR scores (r=0.51, P<0.001; r=0.44, P=0.001, respectively). Pairwise comparisons of R2CHA2DS2-VASc (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.870, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.776-0.964; P<0.001), ES II (AUC: 0.801, 95% CI: 0.703-0.899; P<0.001), and TAVR scores (AUC: 0.730, 95% CI: 0.610-852; P=0.002) showed similar accuracy for predicting mortality. R2CHA2DS2-VASc score is an independent predictor of mortality in multivariable Cox regression analysis. A cutoff value of six for R2CHA2DS2-VASc score showed a sensitivity of 74% and a specificity of 89% for predicting mid-to-long-term mortality. Conclusion: R2CHA2DS2-VASc score, easily calculated from clinical parameters, is associated with prediction of mid-to-longterm mortality in patients undergoing TAVR.