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.

The relationship between mitral annular calcification, metabolic syndrome and thromboembolic risk

Abstract Introduction: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is defined as an association between diabetes, hypertension, obesity and dyslipidemia and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Mitral annular calcification (MAC) is associated with several cardiovascular disorders, including coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation (AF), heart failure, ischemic stroke and increased mortality. The CHA2DS2-VASc score is used to estimate thromboembolic risk in AF. However, the association among MAC, MetS and thromboembolic risk is unknown and was evaluated in the current study. Methods: The study group consisted of 94 patients with MAC and 86 patients with MetS. Patients were divided into two groups: those with and those without MAC. Results: Patients with MAC had a higher MetS rate (P<0.001). In patients with MAC, the CHA2DS2-VASc scores and the rate of cerebrovascular accident and AF were significantly higher compared to those without MAC (P<0.001, for both parameters). The results of the multivariate regression analysis showed that history of smoking, presence of MetS and high CHA2DS2-VASc scores were associated with the development of MAC. ROC curve analyses showed that CHA2DS2-VASc scores were significant predictors for MAC (C-statistic: 0.78; 95% CI: 0.706-0.855, P<0.001). Correlation analysis indicated that MAC was positively correlated with the presence of MetS and CHA2DS2-VASc score (P=0.001, r=0.264; P<0.001, r=0.490). Conclusion: We have shown that CHA2DS2-VASc score and presence of MetS rates were significantly higher in patients with MAC compared without MAC. Presence of MAC was correlated with CHA2DS2-VASc score, presence of MetS, AF and left atrial diameter and negatively correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction.

Presystolic Wave is Associated with Subclinical Left Ventricular Dysfunction Assessed by Myocardial Performance Index in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus / Onda Pressistólica Associada à Disfunção Ventricular Esquerda Subclínica e Avaliada com Base no Índice de Performance Miocárdica em Pacientes com Diabetes Mellitus Tipo 2

Abstract Background: Myocardial performance index (MPI), demonstrates both systolic and diastolic functions of the left ventricle. Presystolic wave (PSW) is frequently detected on Doppler examination of the left ventricular outflow tract and possible mechanism of PSW is impaired LV compliance and left ventricular stiffness. Objective: To investigate the relationship between PSW and MPI in type 2 diabetic patients. Method: A total of 129 type 2 diabetic patients were included in this study. Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence of PSW on Doppler echocardiography. There were 90 patients (38 male, mean age 57.77 ± 10.91 years) in the PSW-positive group and 39 patients (13 male; mean age: 55.31 ± 11.29 years) in the PSW-negative group. The p values of < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: MPI was higher in PSW- positive group (0.63 ± 0.17vs 0.52 ± 0.13, p < 0.001). In addition, subclinical left ventricle dysfunction (LVD) was higher in the PSW- positive group (p = 0.029). Univariate analysis showed that the presence of PSW associated with abnormal MPI (p = 0.031). Pearson correlation analysis showed that PSW velocity correlated with MPI (r: 0.286, p = 0.006). Conclusion: Presence of the PSW on Doppler examination was associated with subclinical LV dysfunction in patients with DM type 2. This easy-to-perform echocardiographic parameter may be related to subclinical LVD among patients with type 2 DM.

Resumo Fundamento: O índice de performance miocárdica (IPM) avalia as funções sistólica e diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo. A onda pressistólica (OPS) é geralmente detectada no exame Doppler da via de saída do ventrículo esquerdo e seus possíveis mecanismos são complacência prejudicada e rigidez do ventrículo esquerdo. Objetivo: Investigar a relação entre OPS e IPM em pacientes com diabetes tipo 2. Método: 129 pacientes com diabetes tipo 2 foram incluídos no estudo. Os sujeitos foram alocados em dois grupos, com base na presença de OPS no exame ecocardiográfico com Doppler. Foram incluídos 90 pacientes (38 homens, idade média 57,77 ± 10,91 anos) no grupo OPS-positiva e 39 pacientes (13 homens; idade média 55,31 ± 11,29 anos) no grupo OPS-negativa. Valor de p < 0,05 foi considerado para significância estatística. Resultados: O IPM foi mais alto no grupo OPS-positiva (0,63 ± 0,17 vs 0,52 ± 0,13, p < 0,001). Além disso, a disfunção ventricular esquerda subclínica (DVE) foi maior no grupo OPS-positiva (p = 0,029). Análise univariada mostrou associação de OPS com IPM anormal (p = 0,031), assim como o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson mostrou correlação entre velocidade de OPS e IPM (r: 0,286, p = 0,006). Conclusão: Presença de OPS na ecocardiografia com Doppler foi associada à DVE subclínica em pacientes com diabetes tipo 2. Esse exame ecocardiográfico de fácil execução pode ser relacionado à DVE subclínica entre pacientes com diabetes tipo 2.

Study of Myocardial Perfusion in Obese Individuals without Known Ischemic Heart Disease / Estudo de Perfusão Miocárdica em Obesos sem Doença Cardíaca Isquêmica Conhecida

Abstract Background: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), ischemic heart disease (IHD) and cardiovascular mortality. Several studies have demonstrated the diagnostic and prognostic value of single photon computed tomography-myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (SPECT-MPI) in the evaluation of patients with suspected IHD, including in obese population. Data on clinical risk factors and their association with abnormal myocardial perfusion in obese patients are scarce in the Brazilian population. Objective: To determine the factors associated with abnormal myocardial perfusion in obese individuals without known IHD. Methods: We studied obese patients without known IHD who were referred for evaluation through SPECT-MPI between January 2011 and December 2016. Clinical variables and results of SPECT-MPI were obtained systematically. The distribution of continuous variables was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk and Shapiro-Francia tests. We used the unpaired Student t test to compare the means of continuous variables with normal distribution and the Chi Square test for binomial variables analysis. A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The association of the clinical variables for the presence of factors associated with abnormal myocardial perfusion was determined by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis, and respective odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: The study sample consisted of 5,526 obese patients. Mean body mass index (BMI) of our patients was 33.9 ± 3.7 kg/m2, 31% had DM, and myocardial perfusion abnormalities was observed in 23% of the total sample. The factors associated with abnormal myocardial perfusion on multivariate analysis were: age (OR: 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.03, p < 0.001), DM (OR: 1.57, 95% CI 1.31-1.88, p < 0.001), typical angina before the test (OR: 2.45, 95% CI: 1.82-3.31, p < 0.001), need for pharmacologic stress test (OR: 1.61, 95% CI: 1.26-2.07, p < 0.001), less physical effort evaluated in metabolic equivalents (METs) during the exercise treadmill test (OR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85-0.94, p < 0.001) and a lower post-stress left ventricular ejection fraction after stress (LVEF; OR: 0.989, 95% CI: 0.984-0.994, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The factors associated with abnormal myocardial perfusion in obese patients without known IHD were age, DM, presence of typical angina, ventricular dysfunction, and inability to undergo physical stress as clinical variables, in addition to functional capacity during physical stress.

Resumo Fundamento: A obesidade associa-se a um risco aumentado de diabetes mellitus do tipo 2 (DM), doença cardíaca isquêmica (DCI) e mortalidade cardiovascular. Vários estudos demonstraram o valor diagnóstico e prognóstico da cintilografia de perfusão miocárdica com tomografia computadorizada por fóton único (CPM-SPECT) na avaliação de pacientes com suspeita de DCI, inclusive na população de obesos. Dados sobre fatores de risco clínicos, e sua associação com perfusão miocárdica anormal em obesos, são escassos na população brasileira. Objetivo: Determinar quais são os fatores associados à anormalidade de perfusão miocárdica em obesos sem DCI conhecida. Métodos: Estudamos pacientes obesos sem DCI conhecida que foram encaminhados para avaliação por CPM-SPECT entre janeiro de 2011 até dezembro de 2016. Variáveis clínicas e resultados da CPM-SPECT foram obtidos de forma sistematizada. A distribuição das variáveis contínuas foi avaliada utilizando-se os testes de Shapiro-Wilk e Shapiro-Francia. Utilizou-se o teste t de Student não pareado para comparar as médias das variáveis contínuas com distribuição normal, e o teste do Chi quadrado para análise das variáveis binomiais. Considerou-se o valor de p < 0,05 como estatisticamente significativo. A associação das variáveis clínicas para a presença de anormalidade de perfusão miocárdica foi determinada por análise de regressão logística univariada e multivariada, calculando-se e apresentando-se os respectivos odds ratios (OR) e intervalos de confiança (IC) de 95. Resultados: A amostra do estudo foi de 5.526 pacientes obesos. O índice de massa corporal médio dos nossos pacientes foi de 33,9 ± 3,7 kg/m2, 31% eram portadores de DM, e anormalidades de perfusão foram observadas em 23% do total da amostra. Os fatores associados à anormalidade de perfusão miocárdica, após análise multivariada, foram: idade (OR: 1,02, IC 95%: 1,01-1,03, p < 0,001), DM (OR: 1,57, IC 95%: 1,31-1,88, p < 0,001), presença de angina típica antes do exame (OR: 2,45, IC 95%: 1,82-3,31, p < 0,001), necessidade de utilização de protocolo com estresse farmacológico (OR: 1,61, IC 95%: 1,26-2,07, p < 0,001), menor esforço físico avaliado em equivalentes metabólicos durante o teste ergométrico (OR: 0,89, IC 95%: 0,85-0,94, p < 0,001) e menor fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo após estresse (OR: 0,989, IC 95%: 0,984-0,994, p < 0,001). Conclusão: Os fatores associados à anormalidade de perfusão miocárdica em pacientes obesos sem DCI conhecida foram idade, DM, presença de angina típica, disfunção ventricular e incapacidade para o estresse físico como variáveis clínicas, além da capacidade funcional durante o estresse físico.

Clinical significance of cys-c and hs-crp in coronary heart disease patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

Abstract Objective: To investigate the clinical significance of serum cystatin C (Cys-C) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in coronary heart disease (CHD) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: One hundred and twenty-eight CHD patients were divided into drug treatment (56 cases) and PCI treatment (72 cases) groups, receiving conventional drug treatment and PCI plus conventional drug treatment, respectively. At admission time and 4 weeks after treatment, the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular end diastolic diameter, and left ventricular end systolic diameter were measured. At admission time and 24h, 72h, 1 week, and 4 weeks after treatment, the serum levels of Cys-C and hs-CRP were determined. Results: After 4 weeks of treatment, LVEF in the PCI treatment group was significantly higher than that before treatment (P<0.01) and it was significantly higher than in the drug treatment group at the same time (P<0.01). Cys-C and hs-CRP level in the PCI treatment group were significantly higher than in the drug treatment group 72h and 1 week after treatment (P<0.05 or P<0.01), respectively, but they were significantly lower than in the drug treatment group 4 weeks after treatment (P<0.01). There were obvious interaction effects between grouping factor and time factor in Cys-C (F=3.62, P<0.05) and hs-CRP (F=17.85, P<0.01). Conclusion: Serum levels of Cys-C and hs-CRP are closely related to the heart function in CHD patients undergoing PCI, and they may be used for predicting the outcome of PCI.

Correlation between myocardial velocity measured using tissue doppler imaging in the left ventricular lead-implanted segment and response to cardiac resynchronization therapy

OBJECTIVES: This study investigated whether tissue Doppler imaging parameters, especially the peak systolic velocity of the left ventricular lead-implanted segment (Ss), affect cardiac resynchronization therapy response. METHODS: In this case-control study, 110 enrolled patients were divided into cases (responder group, n=65) and controls (nonresponder group, n=45) based on whether their left ventricular end-systolic volume was reduced by ≥15% at 6 months after surgery. Preoperative clinical and echocardiographic data were collected. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to analyze the factors affecting the response to cardiac resynchronization therapy, and receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted to evaluate their diagnostic values. RESULTS: The proportion of patients with left bundle branch block in the case group was higher than that in the control group. The control group showed a higher left atrial volume index, E/A ratio and E/Em ratio but lower Ss than that of the case group. A multivariate regression analysis showed that left bundle branch block, Ss, and an E/Em ratio>14 were independent risk factors affecting the response to cardiac resynchronization therapy. Ss=4.1 cm/s was the best diagnostic threshold according to the receiver operating characteristic curve. CONCLUSIONS: Ss is an important factor affecting the response to cardiac resynchronization therapy. Patients with heart failure associated with Ss<4.1 cm/s have a higher risk of nonresponse.

Prevalence of peripheral arterial disease in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

OBJECTIVES: To describe the prevalence of the reduced ankle-brachial index (ABI) in patients with heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) attended at a HF clinic in the metropolitan region of Porto Alegre, and to compar the patients to those with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). METHODS: A descriptive observational study, included patients referred to the heart failure clinic in HU-Ulbra with HFpEF or HFrEF and diastolic dysfunction, and measurements of ABIs using vascular Doppler equipment were performed in both groups. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 106 patients with HF, 53.9% of the patients had HFpEF, and 19.4% had a diagnosis of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) (ABI less than 0.9). PAD was identified in 24.1% of the patients with HFpEF, while15.8% of patients in the HFrEF group were diagnosed with PAD. CONCLUSION: Our results did not identify a significantly different prevalence of altered and compatible PAD values in patients with HFpEF. However, we showed a prevalence of 19.4%, a high value if we consider similar populations.

The importance of intra-aortic pulse pressure after anterior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the association of pulse pressure (PP) with mortality and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in one-year period after anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction (A-STEMI). Methods: A total of 261 consecutive patients whose blood pressure was measured with the aid of a catheter before primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) between August 2016 and February 2017 were included in the study. The patients were divided into three groups according to pulse pressure (PP) (Group 1, PP<35 mmHg; Group 2, 35≤PP≤50 mmHg; Group 3, PP>50 mmHg). Results: The mean age of the patients was 63.4±14.1 years, and 206 of them were male. The groups were similar in terms of age and diastolic blood pressure (DBP). The ratio of female patients in Group 1 was higher, and their systolic blood pressure (SBP) was lower than those from the other groups (P=0.005 vs. P=0.042). The rates of MACE and mortality were higher in Group 1. The predictive PP values were calculated to be 42.5 mmHg for development of MACE and 41.5 mmHg for mortality. One-year survival ratio was worse in Group 1 than in the others according to Kaplan-Meier analysis (P<0.001). Conclusion: The values of PP which was measured intra-aortically in patients with A-STEMI were associated with mortality and MACE in the one-year follow-up period.

Vasodilation and Reduction of Systolic Blood Pressure after One Session of High-Intensity Interval Training in Patients With Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction / Vasodilatação e Redução da Pressão Arterial Sistólica após uma Sessão de Treinamento Intervalado de Alta Intensidade em Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca com Fração de Ejeção Preservada

Abstract Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a multifactorial syndrome characterized by a limited exercising capacity. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is an emerging strategy for exercise rehabilitation in different settings. In patients with HFpEF, HIIT subacute effects on endothelial function and blood pressure are still unknown. Objective: To evaluate the subacute effect of one HIIT session on endothelial function and blood pressure in patients with HFpEF. Methods: Sixteen patients with HFpEF underwent a 36-minute session of HIIT on a treadmill, alternating four minutes of high-intensity intervals with three minutes of active recovery. Brachial artery diameter, flow-mediated dilation, and blood pressure were assessed immediately before and 30 minutes after the HIIT session. In all analyses, p <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: There was an increase in brachial artery diameter (pre-exercise: 3.96 ± 0.57 mm; post-exercise: 4.33 ± 0.69 mm; p < 0.01) and a decrease in systolic blood pressure (pre-exercise: 138 ± 21 mmHg; post-exercise: 125 ± 20 mmHg; p < 0.01). Flow-mediated dilation (pre-exercise: 5.91 ± 5.20%; post-exercise: 3.55 ± 6.59%; p = 0.162) and diastolic blood pressure (pre-exercise: 81 ± 11 mmHg; post-exercise: 77 ± 8 mmHg; p = 1.000) did not change significantly. There were no adverse events throughout the experiment. Conclusions: One single HIIT session promoted an increase in brachial artery diameter and reduction in systolic blood pressure, but it did not change flow-mediated dilation and diastolic blood pressure.

Resumo Fundamento: Insuficiência cardíaca com fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEP) é uma síndrome multifatorial caracterizada por limitação ao exercício. O treinamento intervalado de alta intensidade (HIIT) é uma estratégia emergente para a reabilitação do exercício em diferentes contextos. Em pacientes com ICFEP, os efeitos subagudos do HIIT sobre a função endotelial e a pressão arterial ainda são desconhecidos. Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito subagudo de uma única sessão do HIIT sobre a função endotelial e a pressão arterial em pacientes com ICFEP. Métodos: Dezesseis pacientes com ICFEP foram submetidos a uma sessão de 36 minutos de HIIT em esteira rolante, alternando quatro minutos de intervalos de alta intensidade com três minutos de recuperação ativa. O diâmetro da artéria braquial, a dilatação mediada pelo fluxo e a pressão arterial foram avaliados imediatamente antes e 30 minutos após a sessão de HIIT. Em todas as análises, p <0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados: Houve aumento do diâmetro da artéria braquial (pré-exercício: 3,96 ± 0,57 mm; pós-exercício: 4,33 ± 0,69 mm; p < 0,01), e diminuição da pressão arterial sistólica (pré-exercício: 138 ± 21 mmHg; pós-exercício: 125 ± 20 mmHg; p < 0,01). A dilatação mediada por fluxo (pré-exercício: 5,91 ± 5,20%; pós-exercício: 3,55 ± 6,59%; p = 0,162) e pressão arterial diastólica (pré-exercício: 81 ± 11 mmHg; pós-exercício: 77 ± 8 mmHg; p = 1,000) não se alteraram significativamente. Não houve eventos adversos durante o experimento. Conclusões: Uma única sessão do HIIT promoveu aumento do diâmetro da artéria braquial e redução da pressão arterial sistólica, mas não alterou a dilatação mediada pelo fluxo e a pressão arterial diastólica.

Infection in Patients with Decompensated Heart Failure: In-Hospital Mortality and Outcome / Infecção em Pacientes com Insuficiência Cardíaca Descompensada: Mortalidade Hospitalar e Evolução

Abstract Background: Heart failure (HF) is a syndrome, whose advanced forms have a poor prognosis, which is aggravated by the presence of comorbidities. Objective: We assessed the impact of infection in patients with decompensated HF admitted to a tertiary university-affiliated hospital in the city of São Paulo. Methods: This study assessed 260 patients consecutively admitted to our unit because of decompensated HF. The presence of infection and other morbidities was assessed, as were in-hospital mortality and outcome after discharge. The chance of death was estimated by univariate logistic regression analysis of the variables studied. The significance level adopted was P < 0.05. Results: Of the patients studied, 54.2% were of the male sex, and the mean age ± SD was 66.1 ± 12.7 years. During hospitalization, 119 patients (45.8%) had infection: 88 (33.8%) being diagnosed with pulmonary infection and 39 patients (15.0%), with urinary infection. During hospitalization, 56 patients (21.5%) died, and, after discharge, 36 patients (17.6%). During hospitalization, 26.9% of the patients with infection died vs 17% of those without infection (p = 0.05). However, after discharge, mortality was lower in the group that had infection: 11.5% vs 22.2% (p = 0.046). Conclusions: Infection is a frequent morbidity among patients with HF admitted for compensation of the condition, and those with infection show higher in-hospital mortality. However, those patients who initially had infection and survived had a better outcome after discharge.

Resumo Fundamento: A insuficiência cardíaca (IC) é uma síndrome cujas formas avançadas têm mau prognóstico, que é mais agravado pela presença de comorbidades. Objetivo: Avaliamos o impacto da infecção em pacientes com IC descompensada que internaram em hospital universitário terciário de São Paulo. Métodos: Estudamos 260 pacientes consecutivos que internaram em nossa unidade com IC descompensada. Avaliamos a presença de infecção e de outras morbidades. Avaliaram-se mortalidade hospitalar e evolução após a alta. A chance de óbito foi estimada pela análise de regressão logística univariada para as variáveis estudadas. Considerou-se P < 0,05 significativo. Resultados: Dos pacientes estudados, 54,2% eram homens, sendo a idade média ± DP de 66,1 ± 12,7 anos. Durante a internação, 119 pacientes (45,8%) apresentaram infecção: 88 (33,8%) tiveram diagnóstico de infecção pulmonar e 39 (15%), de infecção urinária. A mortalidade hospitalar ocorreu em 56 pacientes (21,5%) e, após a alta, 36 pacientes (17,6%) morreram no seguimento. Durante a internação, 26,9% do grupo com infecção morreu vs 17% do grupo sem infecção (p = 0,05). Entretanto, após a alta, a mortalidade foi menor no grupo com infecção: 11,5% vs 22,2% (p = 0,046). Conclusões: Infecção é uma comorbidade frequente entre os pacientes com IC internados para compensação, causando um aumento da mortalidade durante a hospitalização. Entretanto, após a alta, os pacientes inicialmente com infecção apresentaram melhor evolução.

Applicability of Longitudinal Strain of Left Ventricle in Unstable Angina / Aplicabilidade do Strain Longitudinal do Ventrículo Esquerdo na Angina Instável

Abstract Background: Unstable angina (UA) is a common cause of hospital admission; risk stratification helps determine strategies for treatment. Objective: To determine the applicability of two-dimensional longitudinal strain (SL2D) for the identification of myocardial ischemia in patients with UA. Methods: Cross-sectional, descriptive, observational study lasting 60 days. The sample consisted of 78 patients, of which fifteen (19.2%) were eligible for longitudinal strain analysis. The value of p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The group of ineligible patients presented: a lower proportion of women, a higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), use of ASA, statins and beta-blockers and larger cavity diameters. The main causes of non-applicability were: presence of previous infarction (56.4%), previous CTA (22.1%), previous MRI (11.5%) or both (16.7%) and the presence of specific electrocardiographic abnormalities (12.8%). SL2D assessment revealed a lower global strain value in those with stenosis greater than 70% in some epicardial coronary arteries (17.1 [3.1] versus 20.2 [6.7], with p = 0.014). Segmental strain assessment showed an association between severe CX and RD lesions with longitudinal strain reduction of lateral and inferior walls basal segments; (14 [5] versus 21 [10], with p = 0.04) and (12.5 [6] versus 19 [8], respectively). Conclusion: There was very low SL2D applicability to assess ischemia in the studied population. However, the global strain showed a correlation with the presence of significant coronary lesion, which could be included in the UA diagnostic arsenal in the future.

Resumo Fundamento: A angina instável (AI) é uma causa comum de internação hospitalar, a estratificação de risco ajuda a determinar estratégias para o tratamento. Objetivo: Determinar a aplicabilidade do strain longitudinal bidimensional (SL2D) para identificação de isquemia miocárdica, em pacientes com AI. Métodos: Estudo observacional transversal, descritivo, com duração de 60 dias. A amostra foi composta por 78 pacientes, sendo quinze (19,2%) elegíveis para análise do strain longitudinal. O valor de p < 0.05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados: O grupo dos não elegíveis apresentou: menor proporção de mulheres, maior prevalência de diabetes mellitus (DM), do uso de AAS, estatinas e betabloqueadores e maiores diâmetros cavitários. As principais causas da não aplicabilidade foram: presença de infarto prévio (56,4%), ATC prévia (22,1%), RM prévia (11,5%) ou ambos (16,7%) e presença de alterações eletrocardiográficas específicas (12,8%). A avaliação do SL2D revelou um valor de strain global inferior naqueles com estenose maior que 70% em alguma coronária epicárdica (17,1 [3,1] versus 20,2 [6,7], com p = 0,014). A avaliação do strain segmentar demonstrou associação entre lesão grave nas coronárias CX e CD com redução do strain longitudinal dos segmentos basais das paredes lateral e inferior; (14 [5] versus 21 [10], com p = 0,04) e (12,5 [6] versus 19 [8], com p = 0,026), respectivamente. Conclusão: Houve aplicabilidade muito baixa do SL2D para avaliar isquemia na população estudada. Entretanto, o strain global apresentou correlação com presença de lesão coronária significativa, podendo, futuramente, ser incluído no arsenal diagnóstico da AI.

Association of Monocyte Count on Admission with the Angiographic Thrombus Burden in Patients with ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention / Associação da Contagem de Monócitos na Internação com a Carga Trombótica Angiográfica em Pacientes com Infarto com Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST Submetidos à Intervenção Coronária Percutânea Primária

Abstract Background: The intracoronary high-thrombus burden during the primary percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) can lead to poor outcomes. Monocytes have been described to play an important role in thrombotic disorders. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between admission monocyte count and angiographic intracoronary thrombus burden in patients receiving primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). Methods: A total of 273 patients with acute STEMI who underwent PPCI were enrolled. The patients were divided into two groups according to the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) thrombus grade: low-thrombus burden group with a grade of 0-2 and high-thrombus burden group with a grade of 3-4. The monocyte count and other laboratory parameters were measured on admission before PPCI. P-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: There were 95 patients (34.8%) in the high-thrombus burden group, and 178 patients (65.2%) in the low-thrombus burden group. Patients with high-thrombus burden had significantly higher admission monocyte count (0.61 ± 0.29×109/L vs. 0.53 ± 0.24×109/L, p = 0.021). In multivariate analysis, monocyte count was the independent predictor of angiographic high-thrombus burden (odds ratio 3.107, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.199-7.052, p = 0.020). For the prediction of angiographic high-thrombus burden, admission monocyte count at a cut-off value of 0.48×109/L yielded 0.59 ROC-AUC (71.9% sensitivity, 46.9% specificity). Conclusions: Monocyte count on admission was an independent clinical predictor of high-thrombus burden in patients with STEMI undergoing PPCI. Our findings suggest that admission monocyte count may be available for early risk stratification of high-thrombus burden in acute STEMI patients and might allow the optimization of antithrombotic therapy to improve the outcomes of PPCI.

Resumo Fundamento: A carga trombótica intracoronária durante a intervenção coronária percutânea primária em pacientes com Infarto com Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST (STEMI) pode levar a resultados negativos.Os monócitos foram descritos para desempenhar um papel importante nos distúrbios trombóticos. Objetivos: Este estudo investigou a relação entre a contagem de monócitos no momento da internação e a carga trombótica angiográfica intracoronária em pacientes submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea primária (ICPP). Métodos: Um total de 273 pacientes com STEMI agudo submetidos à ICPP participaram. Os pacientes se dividiram em dois grupos de acordo com o grau trombótico na trombólise do infarto do miocárdio (TIMI): grupo baixa carga trombótica, com graus de 0-2, e grupo alta carga trombótica, com graus de 3-4. A contagem de monócitos e outros parâmetros laboratoriais foram medidos na internação antes da ICPP. Consideramos o valor de p < 0,05 significativo. Resultados: Havia 95 pacientes (34,8%) no grupo alta carga trombótica, e 178 pacientes (65,2%) no grupo baixa carga trombótica. Pacientes com alta carga trombótica apresentaram contagem de monócitos no momento da internação mais alta (0,61 ± 0,29×109/L vs. 0,53 ± 0,24×109/L, p = 0,021). Na análise multivariada, a contagem de monócitos foi o indicador independente da alta carga trombótica angiográfica (odds ratio 3,107, intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC] 1,199-7,052, p = 0,020). Para a previsão da alta carga trombótica angiográfica, a contagem de monócitos na internação tinha ponto de corte de 0,48×109/L, chegou a 0.59 ROC-AUC (71,9% sensibilidade, 46,9% especificidade). Conclusões: a contagem de monócitos na internação foi um indicador clínico independente da alta carga trombótica em pacientes com STEMI submetidos à ICPP. Nossos achados sugerem que a contagem de monócitos na internação pode estar disponível para a estratificação de risco precoce da alta carga trombótica em pacientes com STEMI agudo, e podem levar à otimização da terapia antitrombótica para melhorar os resultados da ICPP.

Association of oscillatory ventilation during cardiopulmonary test to clinical and functional variables of chronic heart failure patients

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study is to characterize the presence of exercise oscillatory ventilation (EOV) and to relate it with other cardiopulmonary exercise test (CET) responses and clinical variables. Methods: Forty-six male patients (age: 53.1±13.6 years old; left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF]: 30±8%) with heart failure were recruited to perform a maximal CET and to correlate the CET responses with clinical variables. The EOV was obtained according to Leite et al. criteria and VE/VCO2 > 34 and peak VO2 < 14 ml/kg/min were used to assess patients' severity. Results: The EOV was observed in 16 of 24 patients who performed the CET, as well as VE/VCO2 > 34 and peak VO2 < 14 ml/kg/min in 14 and 10 patients, respectively. There was no difference in clinical and CET variables of the patients who presented EOV in CET when compared to non-EOV patients. Also, there was no difference in CET and clinical variables when comparing patients who presented EOV and had a VE/VCO2 slope > 34 to patients who just had one of these responses either. Conclusion: The present study showed that there was an incidence of patients with EOV and lower peak VO2 and higher VE/VCO2 slope values, but they showed no difference on other prognostic variables. As well, there was no influence of the presence of EOV on other parameters of CET in this population, suggesting that this variable may be an independent marker of worst prognosis in HF patients.

Subclinical Anthracycline-Induced Cardiotoxicity in the Long - Term Follow-Up of Lymphoma Survivors: A Multi-Layer Speckle Tracking Analysis / Cardiotoxicidade Subclínica Induzida por Antraciclina no Seguimento a Longo Prazo de Sobreviventes de Linfoma: Uma Análise Speckle Tracking Multi-Layer

Abstract Background: Anthracycline generates progressive left ventricular dysfunction associated with a poor prognosis. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether layer-specific strain analysis could assess the subclinical left ventricular dysfunction after exposure to anthracycline. Methods: Forty-two anthracycline-treated survivors of large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, aged 55.83 ± 17.92 years (chemotherapy group) and 27 healthy volunteers, aged 51.39 ± 13.40 years (control group) were enrolled. The cumulative dose of epirubicin in chemotherapy group was 319.67 ± 71.71mg/m2. The time from last dose of epirubicin to the echocardiographic examination was 52.92 ± 22.32 months. Global longitudinal (GLS), circumferential (GCS) and radial strain (GRS), subendocardial, mid and subepicardial layer of longitudinal (LS-ENDO, LS-MID, LS-EPI) and circumferential strain (CS-ENDO, CS-MID, CS-EPI) values were analyzed. Transmural strain gradient was calculated as differences in peak systolic strain between the subendocardial and subepicardial layers. A value of p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Conventional parameters of systolic and diastolic function showed no significant difference between two groups. Compared with controls, patients had significantly lower GCS and GLS. Multi-layer speckle tracking analysis showed significant reduction of circumferential strain of subendocardial layer, transmural CS gradient and longitudinal strain of all three layers. In contrast, the two groups did not differ in transmural longitudinal strain gradient and radial strains. Conclusions: It proved the preferential impairment of subendocardial deformation in long-term survivors after exposure to anthracycline. Multi-layer speckle tracking echocardiography might facilitate the longitudinal follow-up of this at-risk patient cohort.

Resumo Fundamentos: A antraciclina gera uma disfunção ventricular esquerda progressiva associada a um prognóstico ruim. Objetivos: O propósito deste estudo foi avaliar se a análise layer específico de strain poderia avaliar disfunção ventricular esquerda subclínica após exposição a antraciclina. Métodos: Foram inscritos quarenta e dois sobreviventes tratados com antraciclina por linfoma não Hodgkin de células B grandes, de 55,83 ± 17,92 anos (grupo de quimioterapia) e 27 voluntários saudáveis, de 51,39 ± 13,40 anos (grupo controle). A dose cumulativa de epirrubicina no grupo de quimioterapia foi de 319,67 ± 71,71 mg/m2. O tempo desde a última dose de epirrubicina até o exame ecocardiográfico foi de 52,92 ± 22,32 meses. Analisaram-se o strain longitudinal global (GLS), o circunferencial (GCS) e o strain radial (GRS), os valores das camadas subendocárdica, média e subepicárdica so strain longitudinal (LS-ENDO, LS-MID, LS-EPI) e do strain circunferencial (CS-ENDO, CS-MID, CS-EPI). O gradiente de strain transmural foi calculado como a diferença no strain sistólico pico entre as camadas subendocárdicas e subepicárdicas. Um valor de p < 0,05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados: Os parâmetros convencionais da função sistólica e diastólica não mostraram diferenças significativas entre dois grupos. Comparados aos controles, os pacientes apresentaram GCS e GLS significativamente menores. A análise de speckle tracking multi-layer mostrou uma redução significativa no strain circunferencial da camada subendocárdica, o gradiente transmural CS e o strain longitudinal das três camadas. Em contraste, os dois grupos não diferiram no gradiente de strain longitudinal transmural e de strain radiais. Conclusões: Provou-se a deterioração preferencial do strain subendocárdico em sobreviventes de longa duração após exposição à antraciclina. O ecocardiograma de speckle tracking multi-layer pode facilitar o acompanhamento longitudinal dessa coorte de pacientes em risco. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2018; 110(3):219-228)

Effect of prophylactic non-invasive mechanical ventilation on functional capacity after heart valve replacement: a clinical trial

OBJECTIVE: During cardiac surgery, several factors contribute to the development of postoperative pulmonary complications. Non-invasive ventilation is a promising therapeutic tool for improving the functionality of this type of patient. The aim of this study is to evaluate the functional capacity and length of stay of patients in a nosocomial intensive care unit who underwent prophylactic non-invasive ventilation after heart valve replacement. METHOD: The study was a controlled clinical trial, comprising 50 individuals of both sexes who were allocated by randomization into two groups with 25 patients in each group: the control group and experimental group. After surgery, the patients were transferred to the intensive care unit and then participated in standard physical therapy, which was provided to the experimental group after 3 applications of non-invasive ventilation within the first 26 hours after extubation. For non-invasive ventilation, the positive pressure was 10 cm H2O, with a duration of 1 hour. The evaluation was performed on the 7th postoperative day/discharge and included a 6-minute walk test. The intensive care unit and hospitalization times were monitored in both groups. Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (REBeC): RBR number 8bxdd3. RESULTS: Analysis of the 6-minute walk test showed that the control group walked an average distance of 264.34±76 meters and the experimental group walked an average distance of 334.07±71 meters (p=0.002). The intensive care unit and hospitalization times did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSION: Non-invasive ventilation as a therapeutic resource was effective toward improving functionality; however, non-invasive ventilation did not influence the intensive care unit or hospitalization times of the studied cardiac patients.

Validation of age, creatinine and ejection fraction (ACEF) and Cockcroft-Gault ACEF scores in elective cardiac surgery

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of age, creatinine and ejection fraction (ACEF) score and the modified ACEFCG model, incorporating creatinine clearance, to predict immediate operative mortality risk of patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery. A retrospective analysis was performed of prospectively collected data between 2012 and 2015, from a series of 1190 adult patients who underwent elective cardiac surgery. Operative risk mortality was assessed with ACEF, ACEFCG and EuroSCORE II. Overall mortality rate was 4.0% (48 cases), while mean mortality rates predicted by ACEF, ACEFCG, and EuroSCORE II were 2.3% (p = 0.014), 6.4% (p = 0.010) and 2.5% (p = 0.038), respectively. Overall observed/predicted mortality ratio was 1.8 for ACEF score, 0.6 for ACEFCG score and 1.6 for EuroSCORE II. The ACEF score demonstrated an adequate overall performance for the low- and intermediate-risk groups, but underestimated mortality for the high risk group. The ACEFCG score discriminatory power systematically improved the area under the ROC curve (AUC) obtained with the ACEF score; however, EuroSCORE II showed the best AUC. Overall accuracy was 56.1% for the ACEF score, 51.2% for the ACEFCG score and 75.9% for EuroSCORE II. For clinical use, the ACEF score seems to be adequate to predict mortality in low- and intermediate-risk patients. Though the ACEFCG score had a better discriminatory power and calibration, it tended to overestimate the expected risk. Since ideally, a simpler risk stratification score should be desirable for bedside clinical use, the ACEF model reasonably met the expected performance in our population.

El objetivo fue evaluar la eficacia de la escala de riesgo de edad, creatinina y fracción de eyección (ACEF) y también ACEFCG, que incorpora la depuración de creatinina, para predecir el riesgo de mortalidad operatoria inmediata tras una cirugía cardiaca electiva. Se realizó un análisis retrospectivo de datos recolectados prospectivamente entre 2012 y 2015, de 1190 adultos sometidos a cirugía cardíaca electiva. El riesgo de mortalidad operatoria se evaluó con ACEF, ACEFCG y EuroSCORE II. La tasa de mortalidad global fue 4.0% (48 casos), mientras que las tasas de mortalidad predichas por ACEF, ACEFCG y EuroSCORE II fueron 2.3% (p = 0.014), 6.4% (p = 0.010) y 2.5% (p = 0.038), respectivamente. La razón mortalidad observada/esperada fue 1.8 para el ACEF, 0.6 para el ACEFCG y 1.6 para el EuroSCORE II. La puntuación de ACEF demostró un desempeño adecuado para los grupos de riesgo bajo y medio, pero subestimó la mortalidad del grupo de alto riesgo. La discriminación del ACEFCG mejoró sistemáticamente el área ROC del ACEF; sin embargo, el EuroSCORE II mostró la mejor área ROC. La precisión global fue 56.1% para el ACEF, 51.2% para el ACEFCG y 75.9% para el EuroSCORE II. Para uso clínico, el modelo ACEF parece ser adecuado para predecir la mortalidad en pacientes de riesgo bajo y medio. Aunque el puntaje de ACEFCG tuvo un mejor poder discriminatorio y calibración, tendió a sobrestimar el riesgo esperado. Considerando que sería ideal contar con un método de estratificación de riesgo más simple para uso clínico al lado de la cama, el modelo ACEF tuvo un desempeño razonable en nuestra población.

Cardiac Amyloidosis and its New Clinical Phenotype: Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction / Amiloidose Cardíaca e seu Novo Fenótipo Clínico: Insuficiência Cardíaca com Fração de Ejeção Preservada

Abstract Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is now an emerging cardiovascular epidemic, being identified as the main phenotype observed in clinical practice. It is more associated with female gender, advanced age and comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity and chronic kidney disease. Amyloidosis is a clinical disorder characterized by the deposition of aggregates of insoluble fibrils originating from proteins that exhibit anomalous folding. Recently, pictures of senile amyloidosis have been described in patients with HFpEF, demonstrating the need for clinical cardiologists to investigate this etiology in suspect cases. The clinical suspicion of amyloidosis should be increased in cases of HFPS where the cardio imaging methods are compatible with infiltrative cardiomyopathy. Advances in cardio imaging methods combined with the possibility of performing genetic tests and identification of the type of amyloid material allow the diagnosis to be made. The management of the diagnosed patients can be done in partnership with centers specialized in the study of amyloidosis, which, together with the new technologies, investigate the possibility of organ or bone marrow transplantation and also the involvement of patients in clinical studies that evaluate the action of the new emerging drugs.

Resumo A insuficiência cardíaca com fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEP) é hoje uma epidemia cardiovascular emergente, sendo identificada como o principal fenótipo observado na prática clínica. Está mais associado ao sexo feminino, idade avançada e a comorbidades como hipertensão arterial, diabetes, obesidade e doença renal crônica. A amiloidose é uma desordem clínica caracterizada pelo depósito de agregados de fibrilas insolúveis originadas de proteínas que apresentam dobramento anômalo. Recentemente, têm sido descritos quadros de amiloidose senil em pacientes com ICFEP, demonstrando a necessidade de os cardiologistas clínicos investigarem esta etiologia em casos suspeitos. Deve-se aumentar a suspeição clínica de amiloidose diante dos casos de ICFEP onde os métodos de cardioimagem sejam compatíveis com o quadro de cardiomiopatia infiltrativa. Os avanços nos métodos de cardioimagem aliados à possibilidade de realização de testes genéticos e identificação do tipo do material amiloide permitem a realização do diagnóstico. O manejo dos pacientes diagnosticados pode ser feito em parceria com centros especializados no estudo de amiloidose, que, aliados às novas tecnologias, investigam a possibilidade de transplante de órgãos ou medula óssea e também o envolvimento dos pacientes em estudos clínicos que avaliam a ação das novas drogas emergentes.

Collaborative care model improves self-care ability, quality of life and cardiac function of patients with chronic heart failure

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a common chronic disease that requires much care. This study aimed to explore the effects of collaborative care model (CCM) on patients with CHF. A total of 114 CHF patients were enrolled in this study, and were randomly and equally divided into two groups: control and experimental. Patients in the two groups received either usual care or CCM for 3 continuous months. The impacts of CCM on the self-care ability and quality of life were assessed using self-care of heart failure index and short form health survey 12, respectively. Further, cardiac function was assessed by measuring left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and the level of N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and by the 6-min walking test. Clinical and demographic characteristics of patients in the control and CCM groups were statistically equivalent. Compared with usual care, CCM significantly enhanced self-care abilities of patients with CHF, including self-care maintenance, self-care management and self-care confidence (all P<0.05). The physical and mental quality of life was also significantly improved by CCM (P<0.01 or P<0.05). Compared with usual care, CCM significantly increased the LVEF (P<0.01), decreased the NT-proBNP level (P<0.01), and enhanced exercise capacity (P<0.001). In conclusion, CCM improved the self-care, quality of life and cardiac function of patients with CHF compared with usual care.

Effect of Nebivolol on MIBG Parameters and Exercise in Heart Failure with Normal Ejection Fraction / Efeito do Nebivolol sobre Parâmetros do MIBG e Exercício na Insuficiência Cardíaca com Fração de Ejeção Normal

Abstract Background: More than 50% of the patients with heart failure have normal ejection fraction (HFNEF). Iodine-123 metaiodobenzylguanidine (123I-MIBG) scintigraphy and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) are prognostic markers in HFNEF. Nebivolol is a beta-blocker with vasodilating properties. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of nebivolol therapy on CPET and123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters in patients with HFNEF. Methods: Twenty-five patients underwent 123I-MIBG scintigraphy to determine the washout rate and early and late heart-to-mediastinum ratios. During the CPET, we analyzed the systolic blood pressure (SBP) response, heart rate (HR) during effort and recovery (HRR), and oxygen uptake (VO2). After the initial evaluation, we divided our cohort into control and intervention groups. We then started nebivolol and repeated the tests after 3 months. Results: After treatment, the intervention group showed improvement in rest SBP (149 mmHg [143.5-171 mmHg] versus 135 mmHg [125-151 mmHg, p = 0.016]), rest HR (78 bpm [65.5-84 bpm] versus 64.5 bpm [57.5-75.5 bpm, p = 0.028]), peak SBP (235 mmHg [216.5-249 mmHg] versus 198 mmHg [191-220.5 mmHg], p = 0.001), peak HR (124.5 bpm [115-142 bpm] versus 115 bpm [103.7-124 bpm], p= 0.043), HRR on the 1st minute (6.5 bpm [4.75-12.75 bpm] versus 14.5 bpm [6.7-22 bpm], p = 0.025) and HRR on the 2nd minute (15.5 bpm [13-21.75 bpm] versus 23.5 bpm [16-31.7 bpm], p = 0.005), but no change in peak VO2 and 123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters. Conclusion: Despite a better control in SBP, HR during rest and exercise, and improvement in HRR, nebivolol failed to show a positive effect on peak VO2 and 123I-MIBG scintigraphic parameters. The lack of effect on adrenergic activity may be the cause of the lack of effect on functional capacity.

Resumo Fundamento: Mais de 50% dos pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca têm fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEN). A cintilografia marcada com iodo 123 com metaiodobenzilguanidina (123I-MIBG) e o teste cardiopulmonar do exercício (TCPE) são marcadores de prognóstico da ICFEN. O nebivolol é um betabloqueador com propriedade vasodilatadora. Objetivos: Avaliar o impacto da terapia com nebivolol sobre as variáveis da cintilografia com 123I-MIBG e do TCPE em pacientes com ICFEN. Métodos: Vinte e cinco pacientes realizaram cintilografia com 123I-MIBG para avaliar a taxa de washout e a relação coração/mediastino precoce e tardia. Durante o TCPE, foi analisado o comportamento da pressão arterial sistólica (PAS), frequência cardíaca (FC) durante o esforço e a recuperação (FCR) e o consumo de oxigênio (VO2). Após avaliação inicial, separamos nossa amostra em grupos controle versus intervenção, iniciamos o nebivolol e repetimos os exames após 3 meses. Resultados: Após o tratamento, o grupo intervenção apresentou melhora na PAS (149 mmHg [143,5-171 mmHg] versus 135 mmHg [125-151 mmHg, p = 0,016]), FC em repouso (78 bpm [65,5-84 bpm] versus 64,5 bpm [57,5-75,5 bpm, p = 0,028]), PAS no pico do esforço (235 mmHg [216,5-249 mmHg] versus 198 mmHg [191-220,5 mmHg], p = 0,001), FC no pico do esforço (124,5 bpm [115-142 bpm] versus 115 bpm [103,7-124 bpm], p = 0,043) e FCR no 1º minuto (6,5 bpm [4,75-12,75 bpm] versus 14,5 bpm [6,7-22 bpm], p = 0,025) e no 2º minuto (15,5 bpm [13-21,75 bpm] versus 23,5 bpm [16-31,7 bpm], p = 0,005), porém não apresentou mudança no VO2 de pico e nos parâmetros da cintilografia com 123I-MIBG. Conclusão: Apesar de um melhor controle da PAS e na FC em repouso e durante o esforço e uma melhora na FCR, o nebivolol não ocasionou efeito positivo sobre o VO2 de pico e nos parâmetros da cintilografia com 123I-MIBG. A ausência de efeito sobre a atividade adrenérgica pode ser a causa da falta de efeito sobre a capacidade funcional.

Impacto da Etiologia sobre a Função Atrial Esquerda em Pacientescom Refluxo Mitral Importante / Impact of Etiology on the Left Atrial Function in Patients with Severe Mitral Regurgitation

A adaptação à sobrecarga crônica de volume na insuficiência mitral (IM) tende a aumentar o átrioesquerdo (AE), predispondo a disfunção atrial e arritmias. Embora as dimensões do AE tragam importante informação prognóstica, a função contrátil atrial não tem sido estudada consistentemente na IM. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a função atrial em pacientes com IM por cardiopatia reumática (CR) eprolapso valvar mitral (PVM). Métodos: Foram estudados 54 pacientes com IM importante, com área do orifício regorgitante efetivo (ERO) ≥ 0,40 cm2,sendo 23 com CR e 31 com PVM, em ritmo sinusal, com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) > 60%. Foram medidos diâmetros e massa do VE, volumes do VE e AE (máximo, mínimo e pré-A), fração de esvaziamento total (FEsv.TAE), passiva (FEsv.P AE) e ativa (FEsv.A AE) do AE, para avaliar função. Medidas de Doppler transmitral e tecidual foram obtidas. Resultados: Comparados ao PVM, pacientes com CR eram mais jovens (35 ± 11 versus 55 ± 13 anos; p < 0,05) e do sexo feminino (17 versus 7 mulheres; p < 0,05); o índice de massa do VE foi maior no grupo PVM. O volume atrial máximo foiigual para os grupos, com maior volume mínimo (56,9 ± 30 versus 41,6 ± 17 mL; p = 0,02) e consequentemente menor FEsv.A AE (0,41 ± 0,11 versus 0,47 ± 0,07; p = 0,03) e FEsv.A AE (0,20 ± 0,08 versus 0,27 ± 0,07; p < 0,001) para o grupo CR. Conclusão: Embora mais jovens, pacientes com IM de etiologia reumática apresentam maior comprometimento da função atrial comparados a pacientes com PVM, possivelmente refletindo o acometimento do miocárdio atrial peladoença...

Adaptation to chronic volume overload in patients with mitral insufficiency (MI) tends to increase left atrium (LA), leading to LA dysfunction and arrhythmias. Though LA dimension is a well-known cardiovascular risk predictor, LA contractile function has not been thoroughly assessed in patients with MI of distinct etiologies. Objective: We aimed to assess LA structure and function in patients with MI due to rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and mitral valve prolapse (MVP). Methods: We assessed 54 patients with severe MI, defined by an effective regurgitant orifice (ERO) ≥ 0.40 cm2, 23 with RHD and 31 with MVP, all in sinus rhythm and with left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction > 60%. We measured LV diameters and mass, and also volumes (Simpson) to assess function, including maximal, minimal and pre-atrial contraction volumes, and total (TLAEF), passive (PLAEF) and active (ALAEF) LAemptying fraction. Transmitral and tissue Doppler measurements were obtained. Results: Compared to MVP, patients with RHD were younger (35 ± 11 versus 55 ± 13 years) and mainly female (17 versus 7 female; p < 0.05);LV mass index was higher for MVP patients. Although LA maximal volume was similar for both groups, patients with RHD had higher minimal LA volumes (56.9 ± 30 versus 41.6 ± 17 ml; p = 0.02), resulting in lower TLAEF (0.41 ± 0.11versus 0.47 ± 0.07; p = 0.03) and ALAEF (0.20 ± 0.08versus 0.27 ± 0.07; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Although younger, patients with MI due to RHD present with more severe LA dysfunction compared to MVP, possibly reflecting direct atrial impairment from rheumatic heart disease...