ORCID Profile
0000-0002-5626-7236
Current Organisations
American College of Cardiology
,
Hong Kong College of Physicians
,
European Society of Cardiology
,
Royal College of Physicians
,
Royal Australasian College of Physicians
,
University of New South Wales
,
South Western Sydney Local Health District
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Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 04-2010
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2010
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-06-2015
DOI: 10.1002/EJHF.297
Abstract: The prognostic implications of anaemia in patients with aortic stenosis (AS) remain unclear. Accordingly, the present study aimed to evaluate the prognostic implications of anaemia in AS patients before and after aortic valve replacement (AVR). A total of 856 AS patients (age 71 ± 12 years, 60.2% male, 47.4% severe AS) were included. The mean haemoglobin (Hb) level was 13.2 ± 1.8 g/dL, and the prevalence of anaemia (Hb <13.0 g/dL for men, <12.0 g/dL for women) was 32.0%. The prevalence of anaemia rose with increasing severity of AS (28.9% and 35.6% in moderate and severe AS, respectively, P = 0.048) and was independently associated with increased all-cause mortality in severe AS patients whilst under medical therapy [hazard ratio (HR) 2.26, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.29-3.97, P = 0.005). Similarly, each 1.0 g/dL decrease in Hb was independently associated with increased mortality risk at follow-up (HR 1.35, 95% CI 1.07-1.47, P = 0.006). However, after AVR surgery, severe AS patients who had anaemia had similar long-term survival as patients with normal Hb (log rank P = 0.19). When all AS patients were included and AVR surgery entered as a covariate, anaemia was still independently associated with increased all-cause mortality irrespective of the severity of AS. A high prevalence of anaemia in moderate and severe AS patients was observed, and its presence was independently associated with increased all-cause mortality. However, after AVR surgery, anaemic patients had similar survival rates as patients with normal Hb.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2004
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECHO.2014.06.007
Abstract: Accurate assessment of the right ventricle is increasingly important. Measures of right ventricular (RV) systolic function, including fractional area change, tissue Doppler (s' velocity), and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, show significant variation, and the impacts of age and gender are unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of gender and age on global and segmental RV systolic and diastolic function using both traditional echocardiographic and two-dimensional strain parameters. Detailed transthoracic echocardiographic studies were performed on 142 healthy adult volunteers, with particular emphasis on the right ventricle to determine RV dimensions and function, including fractional area change, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, s' velocity, global and segmental systolic strain, and systolic, early diastolic, and late diastolic strain rates. Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (r = -0.4, P < .001) and RV s' velocity (r = -0.5, P < .001) as well as diastolic functional parameters, including transtricuspid peak E velocity and RV free wall e' velocity (r = -0.4, P < .001), decreased with age. Global systolic strain was also reduced, with differential reductions in basal and mid segmental strain with age. Early diastolic strain rate decreased, with a corresponding increase in late diastolic strain rate. RV function parameters, including fractional area change, e' velocity, strain, and strain rate, were significantly lower in men. RV functional analysis by two-dimensional strain demonstrates a small yet significant change in global and segmental RV function with age and gender, and therefore adjustment for these measures is required in the evaluation of RV function.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 14-12-2010
DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.110.955542
Abstract: Magnetic resonance spectroscopy can quantify myocardial triglyceride content in type 2 diabetic patients. Its relation to alterations in left (LV) and right (RV) ventricular myocardial functions is unknown. A total of 42 men with type 2 diabetes mellitus were recruited. Exclusion criteria included hemoglobin A 1c .5, known cardiovascular disease, diabetes-related complications, or blood pressure /85 mm Hg. Myocardial ischemia was excluded by a negative dobutamine stress test. LV and RV volumes and ejection fraction were quantified by magnetic resonance imaging. LV global longitudinal and RV free wall longitudinal strain, systolic strain rate, and diastolic strain rate were quantified by echocardiographic speckle tracking analyses. Myocardial triglyceride content was quantified by magnetic resonance spectroscopy and dichotomized on the basis of the median value of 0.76. The median age was 59 years (25th and 75th percentiles, 54 and 62 years). Median diabetes diagnosis duration was 4 years, and median glycohemoglobin level was 6.2 (25th and 75th percentiles, 5.9 and 6.8). There were no differences in LV and RV end-diastolic and end-systolic volume indexes and ejection fraction between patients with high (≥0.76) and those with low ( .76) myocardial triglyceride content. However, patients with high myocardial triglyceride content had greater impairment of LV and RV myocardial strain and strain rate. The myocardial triglyceride content was an independent correlate of LV and RV longitudinal strain, systolic strain rate, and diastolic strain rate. High myocardial triglyceride content is associated with more pronounced impairment of LV and RV functions in men with uncomplicated type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECHO.2010.09.010
Abstract: Changes in left atrial (LA) volumes after ST elevation myocardial infarction are reported but have not been well described following non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Seventy-five patients with NSTEMIs were studied within 48 hours of presentation and in follow-up at 6 and 12 months they were compared with age-matched normal controls (n = 100). Biplane indexed LA volumes were measured, and phasic LA volumes (conduit, passive, and active emptying) were calculated. LA remodeling was defined as an increase in LA maximum volume over 12 months. LA maximum volume was significantly larger at baseline in patients with NSTEMIs. At 12 months, maximum LA volume increased (27.6 ± 7.4 vs 30.2 ± 8.9 mL/m² P = .002), with LA remodeling present in 64% of the patients with NSTEMIs. LA passive emptying volume increased, with concurrent reductions in conduit and active emptying volumes. Although diabetes, major coronary artery disease, and a larger myocardial score were predictive of LA remodeling, E' velocity was the only independent predictor. Patients with NSTEMIs had progressive LA enlargement with reductions in conduit and active emptying volumes, reflecting persistent left ventricular diastolic dysfunction consequent to coronary artery disease and associated diabetes. The measurement of LA volumes after NSTEMI may be useful to monitor chronic diastolic dysfunction resulting from ischemic burden.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 22-11-2014
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 29-03-2011
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-05-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.AHJ.2008.07.021
Abstract: Left atrial (LA) volume has recently been identified as a potential biomarker for cardiac and cerebrovascular disease. However, evidence regarding the prognostic implications of LA volume still remains unclear. Evaluation of LA size and function using traditional and more recent echocardiographic parameters is potentially feasible in the routine clinical setting. This review article discusses the conventional and newer echocardiographic parameters used to evaluate LA size and function. Conventional parameters include the assessment of phasic atrial activity using atrial volume measurements, transmitral Doppler peak A velocity, atrial fraction, and the atrial ejection force. Newer parameters include Doppler tissue imaging (DTI) including segmental atrial function assessment using color DTI, strain, and strain rate. In addition, an overview of the implications and clinical relevance of the findings of an enlarged left atrium, from currently available literature, is presented.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 26-04-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-7133.2012.00295.X
Abstract: Exercise training improves functional capacity in patients with exercise limitation attributed to systolic dysfunction (SD), but exercise training effects in patients with diastolic dysfunction is unclear. The authors determined the functional capacity, quality of life, and echocardiography responses of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) patients to 16 weeks exercise training. Thirty patients with HFpEF were randomized to an exercise training or non-exercising control group. The patients had a baseline mean age of 64 ± 8 years, left ventricular ejection fraction 57% ± 10%, and peak oxygen consumption (peak VO(2) ) of 13.3 ± 3.8 mL O(2) /kg/min. Minnesota Living With Heart Failure and Hare-Davis scores and echocardiographic measures (ejection fraction, systolic and diastolic tissue velocity and filling pressure [E/E']) were performed at baseline and after 16 weeks of exercise training. The exercise training and non-exercising control groups showed similar baseline VO(2) (12.2 ± 3.6 mL/kg/min vs 14.1 ± 4.1 mL/kg/min), ejection fraction (58% ± 13% vs 57% ± 8%), and systolic and diastolic function. After exercise training the increment in peak VO(2) in the exercise training group was (24.6%, P=.02), and the non-exercising control group (5.1%, P=.19). V(E) /VCO(2) slope was reduced by 12.7% in the exercise training group (P=.02) but was unchanged in the non-exercising control group (P=.03). No significant changes in diastolic or systolic function were noted in either group. Quality-of-life and depression scores were unchanged with exercise training. Changes in peak VO(2) and V(E) /VCO(2) slope were unrelated to measures of diastolic and systolic function. In patients with exercise limitation attributed to HFpEF, the improvement in peak VO(2) with exercise training was not clearly related to changes in cardiac function.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJCARD.2004.12.019
Abstract: Functional tests provide diagnostic and prognostic information in patients with suspected coronary disease and are recommended in investigating and guiding management of these patients. There is little data on their utilization, especially in patients with low to intermediate pre-test probability of disease. From 6053 consecutive patients who underwent 6830 coronary angiograms for suspected coronary disease, 758 patients were subsequently found to have normal coronary arteries. Clinical data, functional tests performed prior to angiography and referring physicians were analyzed. The 758 patients had mean pre-test probability of disease of 42+/-30%. Only 483 patients had undergone functional tests before angiography. There were no differences in gender, age, and pre-test probability between patients who underwent functional tests and those who did not. Three hundred thirteen patients underwent angiography as inpatients while 445 were day-only patients. Inpatients were less likely to have undergone functional tests prior to angiography. Inpatient status was the only independent predictor of not undergoing functional tests (OR 5.9, p<0.001). Functional tests revealed inducible ischaemia in only 241 of the 483 patients. Patients referred by cardiologists were more likely to have undergone functional tests compared with those referred by other physicians. Procedural cardiologists and non-procedural cardiologists had similar rate of use of functional tests. In our patients with normal coronary arteries, utilization of functional tests was low, particularly for inpatients. A significant proportion proceeded to angiography despite negative functional tests. Referrer characteristics and inpatient status, rather than pre-test probability, appeared to have greater impact on utilization of functional tests.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-1993
DOI: 10.1016/0002-8703(93)90434-B
Abstract: This study aimed to explore the relationship (presence and severity) between chronic breathlessness and sleep problems, independently of diagnoses and health service contact by surveying a large, representative s le of the general population. Analysis of the 2017 South Australian Health Omnibus Survey, an annual, cross-sectional, face-to-face, multistage, clustered area systematic s ling survey carried out in Spring 2017.Chronic breathlessness was self-reported using the ordinal modified Medical Research Council (mMRC scores 0 (none) to 4 (housebound)) where breathlessness has been present for more than 3 of the previous 6 months. 'Sleep problems-ever' and 'sleep problem-current' were assessed dichotomously. Regression models were adjusted for age sex and body mass index (BMI). 2900 responses were available (mean age 48.2 years (SD=18.6) 51% were female mean BMI 27. 1 (SD=5.9)). Prevalence was: 2.7% (n=78) sleep problems-past 6.8% (n=198) sleep problems-current and breathlessness (mMRC 1-4) was 8.8% (n=254). Respondents with sleep problemspast were more likely to be breathless, older with a higher BMI and sleep problems-present also included a higher likelihood of being female.After adjusting for age, sex and BMI, respondents with chronic breathlessness had 1.9 (95% CI=1.0 to 3.5) times the odds of sleep problems-past and sleep problems-current (adjusted OR=2.3 95% CI=1.6 to 3.3). There is a strong association between the two prevalent conditions. Future work will seek to understand if there is a causal relationship using validated sleep assessment tools and whether better managing one condition improves the other.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 17-12-2014
Abstract: Periprocedural myocardial infarction ( PMI ) has had several definitions in the last decade, including the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions ( SCAI ) definition, that requires marked biomarker elevations congruent with surgical PMI criteria. The aim of this study was to examine the definition‐based frequencies of PMI and whether they influenced the reported association between PMI and increased rates of late death/ myocardial infarction ( MI ). We studied 742 patients 492 (66%) had normal troponin T (TnT) levels and 250 (34%) had elevated, but stable or falling, TnT levels. PMI , using the 2007 and the 2012 universal definition, occurred in 172 (23.2%) and in 99 (13.3%) patients, respectively, whereas 19 (2.6%) met the SCAI PMI definition ( P .0001). Among patients with PMI using the 2012 definition, occlusion of a side branch ≤1 mm occurred in 48 patients (48.5%) and was the most common angiographic finding for PMI . The rates of death/ MI at 2 years in patients with, compared to those without, PMI was 14.7% versus 10.1% ( P =0.087) based on the 2007 definition, 16.9% versus 10.3% ( P =0.059) based on the 2012 definition, and 29.4% versus 10.7% ( P =0.015) based on the SCAI definition. In this study, PMI , according to the SCAI definition, was associated with more‐frequent late death/ MI , with ≈20% of all patients, who had PMI using the 2007 universal MI definition, not having SCAI ‐defined PMI . Categorizing these latter patients as SCAI ‐defined no PMI did not alter the rate of death/ MI among no‐ PMI patients.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.AHJ.2012.01.014
Abstract: Fibrinolytic therapies remain widely used for ST-elevation myocardial infarction, and for "failed reperfusion," rescue percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is guideline recommended to improve outcomes. However, these recommendations are based on data from an earlier era of pharmacotherapy and procedural techniques. To determine factors affecting prognosis after rescue PCI, we studied 241 consecutive patients (median age 55 years, interquartile range [IQR] 48-65) undergoing procedures between 2001 and 2009 (53% anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction and 78% transferred). The median treatment-related times were 1.2 hours (IQR 0.8-2.2) from symptom onset to door, 2 hours (IQR 1.3-3.2) from symptom onset to fibrinolysis (93% tenecteplase), and 3.9 hours (IQR 3.1-5.2) from fibrinolysis to balloon. Procedural characteristics were stent deployment in 95% (11.6% drug eluting) and 78% glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor use, and Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) 3 flow rates pre-PCI and post-PCI were 41% and 91%, respectively (P < .001). At 30 days, TIMI major bleeding occurred in 16 (6.6%) patients, and 23 (9.5%) patients received transfusions nonfatal stroke occurred in 4 (1.7%) patients (2 hemorrhagic). Predictors of TIMI major bleeding were female gender (odds ratio 3.194, 95% CI 1.063-9.597 P = .039) and pre-PCI shock (odds ratio 3.619, 95% CI,1.073-12.207 P = .038). Mortality at 30 days was 6.2%, and 3.2% in patients without pre-PCI shock. One-year mortality was 8.2% (5.3% in patients without pre-PCI cardiogenic shock), 5.2% had reinfarction, and the target vessel revascularization rate was 6.4% (2.6% in arteries ≥ 3.5 mm in diameter). Pre-PCI shock, female gender, and post-PCI TIMI flow grades ≤ 2 were significant predictors of 1-year mortality on multivariable regression modeling, but TIMI major bleeding was not. Rescue PCI with contemporary treatments can achieve mortality rates similar to rates for contemporary primary PCI in patients without pre-PCI shock. Whether rates of bleeding can be reduced by different pharmacotherapies and interventional techniques needs clarification in future studies.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2002
Abstract: We report a case of partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage where the left upper and lower pulmonary veins drain into a separate posterior left atrial (LA) chamber before continuing as a vertical ascending vein. The vertical vein then joins the left innominate vein, which eventually drains into a normal right-sided superior vena cava. There was no fenestration or communication between this posterior chamber and the true LA. The true LA contained the fossa ovale and LA appendage. The right upper and lower pulmonary veins drain normally into the true LA. To our knowledge, this is the first case where the left upper and lower pulmonary veins drain into a separate posterior LA chamber before continuing into a vertical vein. The diagnosis was initially made with transesophageal echocardiography and confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The patient later underwent successful corrective operation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2010.07.029
Abstract: Most patients with chronic ischemia and an implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) for primary prevention do not experience therapies for ventricular arrhythmias on follow-up. The present study aimed to identify independent clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic predictors of death and occurrence of ICD therapy in patients with chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy and ICD for primary prevention. A total of 424 patients with chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy, ejection fraction ≤ 35%, and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class ≥ II were recruited. All patients underwent echocardiography before ICD insertion. Primary outcome was all-cause mortality secondary outcome was occurrence of appropriate ICD therapy on follow-up. Primary and secondary outcomes occurred in 84 and 95 patients, respectively. Patients who died were more likely to have diabetes (hazard ratio [HR] 1.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00 to 2.79, p = 0.049), higher NYHA class (HR 1.96, 95% CI 1.15 to 3.33, p = 0.013), lower peri-infarct strain on echocardiogram (HR 1.25, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.46, p = 0.005), and lower glomerular filtration rate (HR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.03, p = 0.022). Only peri-infarct strain (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.36, p < 0.001) predicted the occurrence of ICD therapy on follow-up. In conclusion, in chronic ischemic patients with an ICD for primary prevention, the presence of diabetes, renal dysfunction, higher NYHA class, and impaired peri-infarct zone function were predictors of all-cause mortality. In contrast, only impaired peri-infarct zone function determined the occurrence of appropriate ICD therapy on follow-up.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.AHJ.2012.12.023
Abstract: During percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) performed in the emergent setting of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), uncertainty about patients' ability to comply with 12 months dual antiplatelet therapy after drug-eluting stenting is common, and thus, selective bare-metal stent (BMS) deployment could be an attractive strategy if this achieved low target vessel revascularization (TVR) rates in large infarct-related arteries (IRAs) (≥3.5 mm). To evaluate this hypothesis, among 1,282 patients with STEMI who underwent PCI during their initial hospitalization, we studied 1,059 patients (83%) who received BMS, of whom 512 (48%) had large IRAs ≥3.5 mm in diameter, 333 (31%) had IRAs 3 to 3.49 mm, and 214 (20%) had IRAs <3 mm. At 1 year, TVR rate in patients with BMS was 5.8% (2.2% with large BMS [≥3.5 mm], 9.2% with BMS 3-3.49 mm [intermediate], and 9.0% with BMS <3.0 mm [small], P < .001). The rates of death/reinfarction among patients with large BMS compared with intermediate BMS or small BMS were lower (6.6% vs 11.7% vs 9.0%, P = .042). Among patients who received BMS, the independent predictors of TVR at 1 year were the following: vessel diameter <3.5 mm (odds ratio [OR] 4.39 [95% CI 2.24-8.60], P < .001), proximal left anterior descending coronary artery lesions (OR 1.89 [95% CI 1.08-3.31], P = .027), hypertension (OR 2.01 [95% CI 1.17-3.438], P = .011), and prior PCI (OR 3.46 [95% CI 1.21-9.85], P = .02). The predictors of death/myocardial infarction at 1 year were pre-PCI cardiogenic shock (OR 8.16 [95% CI 4.16-16.01], P < .001), age ≥65 years (OR 2.63 [95% CI 1.58-4.39], P < .001), left anterior descending coronary artery culprit lesions (OR 1.95 [95% CI 1.19-3.21], P = .008), female gender (OR 1.93 [95% CI 1.12-3.32], P = .019), and American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association lesion classes B2 and C (OR 2.17 [95% CI 1.10-4.27], P = .026). Bare-metal stent deployment in STEMI patients with IRAs ≥3.5 mm was associated with low rates of TVR. Their use in this setting warrants comparison with second-generation drug-eluting stenting deployment in future randomized clinical trials.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2009.10.039
Abstract: This study examined the prognostic value of novel diastolic indexes in ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (AMI), derived from strain and strain rate analysis using 2-dimensional speckle tracking imaging. Echocardiograms were obtained within 48 hours of admission in 371 consecutive patients with first ST-elevation AMI (59.7 +/- 11.6 years old). Indexes of diastolic function including mean strain rate during isovolumic relaxation (SR(IVR)), mean early diastolic strain rate (SR(E)) and mean diastolic strain at peak transmitral E wave (E) were obtained from 3 apical views. Mean early diastolic velocity from 4 basal segments by color-coded tissue Doppler imaging was measured. Indexes of diastolic filling including E/SR(IVR), E/SR(E), E/diastolic strain at E, and E/early diastolic velocity were calculated. The primary end point (composite of death, hospitalization for heart failure, repeat MI, and repeat revascularization) occurred in 84 patients (22.6%) during a mean follow-up of 17.3 +/- 12.2 months. Mean SR(IVR) (p <0.001), multivessel disease (p <0.001), Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction grade 0 to 1 flow after percutaneous coronary intervention (p = 0.004), and left ventricular ejection fraction (p = 0.008) were independent predictors of the combined end point on Cox regression analysis. Mean SR(IVR) showed incremental prognostic value over baseline clinical and echocardiographic variables (global chi-square increase from 41.0 to 51.6, p <0.001). After iding patient population based on median SR(IVR), patients with SR(IVR) < or =0.24/second had significantly higher event rates than others (hazard ratio 2.74, 95% confidence interval 1.61 to 4.67, p <0.001). In conclusion, SR(IVR) was incremental to left ventricular ejection fraction, Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction grade 0 to 1 flow after percutaneous coronary intervention, and multivessel disease and superior to other diastolic indexes in predicting future cardiovascular events after AMI. SR(IVR) may be useful in identifying high-risk patients soon after AMI.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2007
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2010.11.007
Abstract: In patients with acute coronary syndromes undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), the diagnosis of periprocedural myocardial infarction is often problematic when the pre-PCI levels of cardiac troponin T (TnT) are elevated. Thus, we examined different TnT criteria for periprocedural myocardial infarction when the pre-PCI TnT levels were elevated and also the associations between the post-PCI cardiac marker levels and outcomes. We established the relation between the post-PCI creatine kinase-MB (CKMB) and TnT levels in 582 patients (315 with acute coronary syndromes and 272 with stable coronary heart disease). A post-PCI increase in the CKMB levels to 14.7 μg/L (3 × the upper reference limit [URL] in men) corresponded to a TnT of 0.23 μg/L. In the 85 patients with acute coronary syndromes and normal CKMB, but elevated post peak TnT levels before PCI (performed at a median of 5 days, interquartile range 3 to 7), the post-PCI cardiac marker increases were as follows: 21 (24.7%) with a ≥ 20% increase in TnT, 10 (11.8%) with an CKMB level >3 × URL, and 12 (14%) with an absolute TnT increase of >0.09 μg/L (p 3× URL compared to those without markers elevations, the rate of freedom from death or nonfatal myocardial infarction was 88% for those with TnT elevations versus 99% (p <0.001, log-rank) and 84% for those with CKMB elevations versus 98% (p 3× URL. Also, periprocedural cardiac marker elevations in patients with acute coronary syndromes did not have prognostic significance.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1445-5994.2008.01675.X
Abstract: The use of contrast agents during coronary intervention can result in nephropathy, particularly in patients with renal dysfunction. We aimed to determine whether the use of iso-osmolar iodixanol is less nephrotoxic than that of low-osmolar iopromide when patients are adequately prehydrated and have received N-acetylcysteine. We conducted a randomized, double-blind, multicentre study of patients with impaired renal function undergoing a coronary interventional procedure. Primary end-point was the incidence of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) on day 2, defined as an increase in serum creatinine concentration of > or =44 micromol/L (0.5 mg/dL) or by a relative increase of > or =25% from baseline. Secondary end-points included peak increase in serum creatinine between baseline and day 7. Of 191 patients recruited, 15% (95% CI: 8-22) of the patients receiving iopromide and 12% (95% CI: 5-19) of the patients receiving iodixanol developed CIN (95% CI of the difference: 13 to -7, P = 0.56). When including peak serum creatinine on day 7, CIN developed in 23% of patients receiving iopromide and in 27% of patients receiving iodixanol (95% CI of the difference: 8 to -16, P = 0.48). The peak increase in serum creatinine concentration at day 7 was similar in both groups (patients receiving iopromide, 18.4 +/- 24.4 micromol/L, vs patients receiving iodixanol, 21.9 +/- 24.2 micromol/L P = 0.33). There remains a high incidence of CIN despite prehydration and routine use of N-acetylcysteine in patients with pre-existing renal dysfunction undergoing coronary interventional procedures. Although our study is underpowered, iodixanol was not associated with a statistically significant lower incidence of CIN when compared with iopromide.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECHO.2015.08.006
Abstract: Right ventricular (RV) function augments with exercise, and loss of this adaptive ability often determines symptoms. Reports on exercise-related changes in RV function in healthy subjects are sparse. In this study, healthy volunteers were prospectively recruited, and changes in RV function with exercise were examined, optimal parameters determined, and the effects of gender and age examined. Treadmill exercise stress echocardiography with concurrent expired gas analysis was performed in 121 healthy volunteers. Parameters of RV systolic function (RV fractional area change, Doppler tissue s' velocity, and systolic strain and strain rate) and diastolic function (peak E and A velocity, Doppler tissue e', a' and early and late diastolic strain rate) were evaluated at baseline and after exercise, with the difference (Δ) being systolic and diastolic reserve. Changes in pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) was measured when accurate estimation was possible. Most systolic functional parameters were augmented with exercise. However, systolic augmentation decreased with age (Δs': r = -0.31, P < .01 Δ strain: r = -0.28, P = .008 Δ systolic strain rate: r = -0.31, P < .01). Similar changes were observed with diastolic function (Δe': r = -0.33, P < .01 Δ early diastolic strain rate r = -0.20, P = .04). In the subgroup with PAP measurements, ΔPAP (r = 0.32, P < .01) increased with age. Men had greater augmentation of systolic reserve, but differences were negated when corrected for workload. S' velocity was the most robust measure of RV systolic function. There is a modest yet significant reduction in RV systolic and diastolic reserve with age, with an increase in PAP. S' velocity is a robust and feasible measure that should be considered given the increasing use of stress testing to evaluate RV function.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 31-10-2019
DOI: 10.1136/HEARTJNL-2019-315772
Abstract: Clinical trials traditionally aim to show a new treatment is superior to placebo or standard treatment, that is, superiority trials. There is an increasing number of trials demonstrating a new treatment is non-inferior to standard treatment. The hypotheses, design and interpretation of non-inferiority trials are different to superiority trials. Non-inferiority trials are designed with the notion that the new treatment offers advantages over standard treatment in certain important aspects. The non-inferior margin is a predetermined margin of difference between the new and standard treatment that is considered acceptable or tolerable for the new treatment to be considered ‘similar’ or ‘not worse’. Both relative difference and absolute difference methods can be used to define the non-inferior margin. Sequential testing for non-inferiority and superiority is often performed. Non-inferiority trials may be necessary in situations where it is no longer ethical to test any new treatment against placebo. There are inherent assumptions in non-inferiority trials which may not be correct and which are not being tested. Successive non-inferiority trials may introduce less and less effective treatments even though these treatments may have been shown to be non-inferior. Furthermore, poor quality trials favour non-inferior results. Intention-to-treat analysis, the preferred way to analyse randomised trials, may favour non-inferiority. Both intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses should be recommended in non-inferiority trials. Clinicians should be aware of the pitfalls of non-inferiority trials and not accept non-inferiority on face value. The focus should not be on the p values but on the effect size and confidence limits.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 06-07-2012
Abstract: Suboptimal uptake of anticoagulation for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation has persisted for over 20 years, despite high-level evidence demonstrating its effectiveness in reducing the risk of fatal and disabling stroke. The STOP STROKE in AF study is a national, cluster randomised controlled trial designed to improve the uptake of anticoagulation in primary care. General practitioners from around Australia enrolling in this ‘distance education’ program are mailed written educational materials, followed by an academic detailing session delivered via telephone by a medical peer, during which participants discuss patient de-identified cases. General practitioners are then randomised to receive written specialist feedback about the patient de-identified cases either before or after completing a three-month posttest audit. Specialist feedback is designed to provide participants with support and confidence to prescribe anticoagulation. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients with atrial fibrillation receiving oral anticoagulation at the time of the posttest audit. The STOP STROKE in AF study aims to evaluate a feasible intervention via distance education to prevent avoidable stroke due to atrial fibrillation. It provides a systematic test of augmenting academic detailing with expert feedback about patient management. Australian Clinical Trials Registry Registration Number: ACTRN12611000076976.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-1997
DOI: 10.1016/S0002-8703(97)70025-5
Abstract: Mitral valve prolapse is sometimes associated with chest pain, but this symptom may also be caused by coexisting coronary disease. The accuracy of exercise echocardiography in diagnosing coronary disease in these patients and the most cost-efficient diagnostic approach are unclear. We studied 96 patients (aged 59 +/- 12 years 70 men) with mitral valve prolapse who underwent exercise electrocardiography, exercise echocardiography, and coronary angiography. The accuracies of seven diagnostic strategies based on the current and expected use of exercise electrocardiography and exercise echocardiography in patients with mitral valve prolapse were examined, with the costs calculated based on Medicare reimbursement. Thirteen (13.5%) patients had significant coronary artery disease. The sensitivity and specificity of exercise electrocardiography in the 71 patients with interpretable electrocardiograms were 50% and 72%, respectively. For the 73 patients who achieved >85% of maximal heart rate, 52 had interpretable exercise electrocardiograms (sensitivity 50% specificity 69%). Exercise echocardiography had a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 98% in the 96 patients and a sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 96% in patients who achieved >85% of maximal heart rate. Approaches adopting Bayes' theorem and restricting further investigation to patients with at least intermediate pretest probability of coronary disease were the least costly. When combined with exercise echocardiography as the initial test, clinical stratification was associated with a false-negative rate of 21%. The utility of exercise electrocardiography is limited by the high prevalence of resting electrocardiographic abnormalities and suboptimal sensitivity and specificity. The best balance of cost and diagnostic accuracy is to perform exercise echocardiography in patients with at least intermediate probability of coronary artery disease.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJCARD.2007.02.059
Abstract: We determined whether vaso-vagal syncope during sheath removal after percutaneous coronary intervention leads to a higher incidence of major adverse cardiac events including acute stent thrombosis, in 611 patients who participated in our previous trial assessing the impact of intravenous sedation and local anaesthesia at this time on patient comfort. A total of 35 (5.7%) patients experienced a vaso-vagal reaction. Major adverse cardiac events at day 30 occurred in 5.7% of patients experiencing vaso-vagal syncope and 7.1% of those who did not (p=1.00) with no case of stent thrombosis in the vaso-vagal group. Whilst unpleasant for patients, we conclude that vaso-vagal syncope during sheath removal after percutaneous coronary intervention is not associated with increased adverse cardiac events in the stent era.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.HLC.2009.11.006
Abstract: Myocardial strain is a measure of tissue deformation and strain rate is the rate at which deformation occurs. When applied to the heart, strain and strain rate give fundamental information on myocardial properties and mechanics that would otherwise be unavailable. Site specificity and angle independency are two unique characteristics of strain and strain rate data. Strain and strain rate can be obtained with tissue Doppler imaging or with 2D speck tracking. These two techniques derive information on strain and strain rate in two fundamentally different ways and each has its own advantages and limitations. Tissue Doppler imaging yields velocity information from which strain and strain rate are mathematically derived whereas 2D speckle tracking yields strain information from which strain rate and velocity data are derived. Data obtained from these two different techniques may not be equivalent due to limitations inherent with each technique. Strain and strain rate imaging have been used to assess myocardial function in a wide range of cardiac conditions. They are useful in detecting early left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in the setting of systemic diseases with cardiac involvement, in differentiating transmural from non-transmural infarction, and in identifying LV contractile reserve in regurgitant valve lesions. When used with dobutamine echocardiography, strain and strain rate imaging can identify viable myocardium and aid the detection of myocardial ischaemia. Strain and strain rate imaging can also be used to assess right ventricular and left atrial function. Despite significant promises, strain and strain rate imaging is technically challenging and signal to noise ratio may be potentially affected by a wide range of factors. As a result, strain and strain rate imaging have been slow to get incorporated into everyday clinical practice. Ongoing research and further technical development are likely to improve the quality of the data and the more general acceptance of these new modalities of imaging in echocardiography.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-1997
DOI: 10.1016/S0002-9149(96)00828-4
Abstract: Patients with left atrial thrombus are considered at high risk for thromboembolic events. The actual prognosis of these patients and the features most predictive of future events are unclear. We performed transesophageal echocardiograms in 2,894 patients over a 6 1/2-year period 94 (age 69 +/- 11 years, 59 men, 83 in atrial fibrillation) were found to have left atrial thrombus. The thrombi were considered mobile in 45 patients and 33 patients had thrombus with a maximum dimension > or = 1.5 cm. Seven of the 94 patients with prosthetic valves were excluded from follow-up analysis. Over a follow-up period of 25.3 +/- 19.2 months, 17 patients had suffered a stroke or embolic event (event rate 10.4% per year) and 27 had died (mortality 15.8% per year). Cox proportional hazard regression analysis identified a maximum thrombus dimension > or = 1.5 cm (RR 19, p = 0.002), history of thromboembolism (RR 4.2, p = 0.038), and mobile thrombus (RR 5.3, p = 0.02) as predictors of subsequent thromboembolism. Moderate or severe left ventricular dysfunction was the only significant predictor of death (RR 2.9, p = 0.04). Gender, age, warfarin therapy at follow-up, atrial fibrillation, location (cavity vs appendage) of thrombus, and spontaneous echocardiographic contrast were not significant. Aggressive antithrombotic therapy may be indicated in these high-risk patients.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 1995
DOI: 10.1016/0002-8703(95)90044-6
Abstract: Left atrial spontaneous echocardiographic contrast (SEC) is an important marker of increased thromboembolic risk in patients with mitral stenosis. To evaluate the effect of percutaneous transseptal mitral valvuloplasty (PTMV) on SEC, we performed transesophageal echocardiography 1 day before and 3 months after PTMV on 88 consecutive patients. SEC was present in 65 (74%) patients before PTMV and was associated with absence of moderate or severe mitral regurgitation (p = 0.01), a smaller valve area (p = 0.02), an older age (p = 0.04), and atrial fibrillation (p = 0.05). At 3 months, PTMV resulted in a mean absolute and relative increase in valve area of 0.54 +/- 0.36 cm2 and 53% +/- 43%, respectively. SEC resolved in 37 patients but persisted in 28 (32%) patients at the 3-month study. The absolute and relative increase of valve area and worsened mitral regurgitation after PTMV were predictors of resolution of SEC, with the relative increase in valve area being the only significant predictor on multivariate analysis. PTMV frequently results in resolution of SEC, which may have important implications in reducing the thromboembolic risk in these patients.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJNURSTU.2011.02.021
Abstract: The study aims were to (a) describe the experiences of Chinese Australians with heart disease following discharge from hospital for an acute cardiac event (b) identify patterns and cultural differences of Chinese Australians following discharge from hospital and (c) illustrate the illness/health seeking behaviors and health beliefs of Chinese Australians. Qualitative study. Interview data were obtained from the following sources: (a) focus groups of Chinese community participants without heart disease (b) interviews with patients recently discharged from hospital following an admission for an acute cardiac event and (c) interviews with Chinese-born health professionals working in Australia. Qualitative thematic analysis was undertaken. Study themes generated from the data were: (1) linking traditional values and beliefs with Western medicine (2) reverence for health professionals and family and (3) juxtaposing traditional beliefs and self-management. Considering the influence of cultural values in developing health care plans and clinical decision making is important.
Publisher: AIP
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1063/1.2900310
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 23-07-2011
Abstract: Evaluate changes in aortic annular dimensions in relation to severe aortic stenosis (AS) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Mean aortic annular diameters and geometries were compared between 90 severe AS patients and 111 controls by multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT). All severe AS patients were also dichotomized into two groups based on the presence of preserved (≥ 50%) or impaired (<50%) LV ejection fraction (EF). The influence of LV geometry and function on changes in aortic annular dimensions was examined. Patients with severe AS had similar aortic annular dimensions and geometries compared with controls even after correcting for baseline differences in age and body surface area (BSA). However, severe AS patients with LV dysfunction (LVEF <50%) had significantly larger mean aortic annular diameter (26.4 ± 1.9 vs. 24.5 ± 2.1 mm, P < 0.001) compared with patients with preserved LVEF. The presence of LV dysfunction, male gender, and larger BSA were independent determinants of a larger aortic annulus on MDCT. In severe AS patients, the presence of LV dysfunction, not the presence of severe AS, was an independent determinant of a larger aortic annular diameter.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-1990
Abstract: Effectiveness of vaginal sonography combined with urinary human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) for identification of ectopic pregnancy (EP) was studied in 107 pregnant women. Eighty-nine women had clinical symptoms suspicious of EP. It was suggested that 18 women carried an increased risk for developing EP. In 63 women endovaginal sonography showed no evidence of intrauterine pregnancy. Fifty-eight of these turned out to be pathological pregnancies. In 44 women endovaginal ultrasonography revealed intrauterine pregnancies. Thirty-two of these turned out to be viable, 10 were not viable and resulted in spontaneous abortions, and 2 turned out to be EP. The sensitivity of vaginal sonography to identify a viable intrauterine pregnancy thus was 81% and its specificity was 97%. The sensitivity and the specificity for endovaginal ultrasonography for identifying EP was 96% and 71%, respectively. Endovaginal ultrasonography demonstrated an intrauterine gestational sac in 54% of the women with urinary HCG as low as 40 IU/L to 500 IU/L. These results show that endovaginal ultrasonography is a sensitive instrument for identifying both early normal intrauterine pregnancies as well as pathological pregnancies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-06-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2008.05.027
Abstract: Myocardial velocities have prognostic implications, and transmitral E wave to mitral annular early diastolic tissue velocity ratio (E/Em) is utilized to estimate left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic pressure (EDP). There are no reference values for 2-dimensional (2D) speckle tracking myocardial velocities (S2D, E2D, A2D), and it is unknown if they are comparable with color tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). Predictors of E/E2D ratios are unknown and E/E2D has not been validated with LVEDP. The myocardial velocities of 142 subjects were measured by TDI and 2D speckle tracking. Mean E/Em and E/E2D were calculated as transmitral E wave to mean 6 basal early diastolic myocardial velocities using TDI and 2D speckle tracking respectively, and compared with LVEDP during catheterizations (n = 20). Mean E2D was lower but mean S2D and A2D were higher than TDI (all p <0.001). When TDI s le volume was tracked throughout the cardiac cycle, this directional difference was no longer apparent with S2D, E2D, and A2D higher than TDI (all p or =12 mm Hg). E/E2D of 11.6 had 83% sensitivity and 70% specificity to predict elevated LVEDP. In conclusion, TDI and 2D speckle tracking myocardial velocities are not comparable due to angle independency and ability for tissue tracking with the latter. LV systolic function, age, and afterload are independent correlates of E/E2D. Only E/E2D identifies elevated LVEDP, and an E/E2D of 11.6 has the optimal sensitivity and specificity.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2003
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.HLC.2005.06.013
Abstract: Due to perceived advantages in the use of non-ionic contrast agents for diagnostic angiography and ionic agents for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), patients often receive various combinations of both types of agents. To assess potential adverse effects of non-ionic and ionic contrast media when used together or separately during percutaneous coronary intervention. We retrospectively evaluated the outcomes of 532 patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention in our institution. Patients were ided into two groups: those that underwent diagnostic angiography and "follow on" PCI and those that underwent "planned" PCI. The groups were sub ided on the basis of the use of the ionic agent ioxaglate or the non-ionic agent iopromide during PCI. The frequency of allergic reactions and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) were noted. With respect to the "follow on" group, allergic reactions occurred in 9 of 150 patients (6.0%) who received the combination of ioxaglate and iopromide versus 1 of 93 (1.1%) who only received iopromide (p=0.094). There was no difference with respect to MACE [6 (4.0%) ioxaglate and iopromide versus 4 (4.3%) iopromide alone, p=1.00]. In the "planned" group, 7 of 165 patients (4.2%) receiving ioxaglate had an allergic reaction as opposed 0.0% (0 of 124 patients) in the iopromide group (p=0.021). All contrast reactions were mild. The incidence of a MACE was similar in both groups [1 (0.6%) ioxaglate versus 2 (1.6%) iopromide, p=0.579]. The incidence of allergic reactions was similar if ioxaglate was used alone or in combination with iopromide (p=0.478). Whilst combining ionic and non-ionic contrast agents in the same procedure was not associated with any more adverse reactions than using an ionic contrast agent alone, the ionic contrast agent ioxaglate was associated with the majority of allergic reactions. With respect to choice of contrast agent, using the non-ionic agent iopromide alone for coronary intervention is associated with the lowest risk of an adverse event.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2003
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 02-12-2023
DOI: 10.1093/EURHEARTJ/EHAC661
Abstract: Pharmaco-invasive percutaneous coronary intervention (PI-PCI) is recommended for patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI)who are unable to undergo timely primary PCI (pPCI). The present study examined late outcomes after PI-PCI (successful reperfusion followed by scheduled PCI or failed reperfusion and rescue PCI)compared with timely and late pPCI (>120 min from first medical contact). All patients with STEMI presenting within 12 h of symptom onset, who underwent PCI during their initial hospitalization at Liverpool Hospital (Sydney), from October 2003 to March 2014, were included. Amongst 2091 STEMI patients (80% male), 1077 (52%)underwent pPCI (68% timely, 32% late), and 1014 (48%)received PI-PCI (33% rescue, 67% scheduled). Mortality at 3 years was 11.1% after pPCI (6.7% timely, 20.2% late) and 6.2% after PI-PCI (9.4% rescue, 4.8% scheduled) P < 0.01. After propensity matching, the adjusted mortality hazard ratio (HR) for timely pPCI compared with scheduled PCI was 0.9 (95% CIs 0.4-2.0) and compared with rescue PCI was 0.5 (95% CIs 0.2-0.9). The adjusted mortality HR for late pPCI, compared with scheduled PCI was 2.2 (95% CIs 1.2-3.1)and compared with rescue PCI, it was 1.5 (95% CIs 0.7-2.0). Patients who underwent late pPCI had higher mortality rates than those undergoing a pharmaco-invasive strategy. Despite rescue PCI being required in a third of patients, a pharmaco-invasive approach should be considered when delays to PCI are anticipated, as it achieves better outcomes than late pPCI.
Publisher: Europa Digital & Publishing
Date: 02-2014
DOI: 10.4244/EIJV9I10A202
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-1994
DOI: 10.1016/0735-1097(94)90025-6
Abstract: This study examined the influence of left atrial spontaneous echo contrast on the subsequent stroke or embolic event rate and on survival in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Left atrial spontaneous echo contrast is associated with atrial fibrillation and a history of previous stroke or other embolic events. However, the prognostic implications of spontaneous contrast in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation are unknown. The study group comprised 272 consecutive patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation undergoing transesophageal echocardiography. Clinical and echocardiographic data were collected at baseline, and patients were prospectively followed up, and all strokes, other embolic events and deaths were documented. The relation between spontaneous contrast at baseline and subsequent stroke, other embolic events and survival was analyzed. Left atrial spontaneous echo contrast was detected at baseline in 161 patients (59%). The mean follow-up was 17.5 months. The stroke or other embolic event rate was 12%/year (15 strokes, 3 transient ischemic attacks, 2 peripheral embolisms) in patients with, compared with 3%/year (5 strokes) in patients without, baseline spontaneous contrast (p = 0.002). In 149 patients without previous thromboembolism, the event rate was 9.5%/year in patients with and 2.2%/year in patients without spontaneous contrast (p = 0.003). There were 25 deaths in patients with and 11 deaths in patients without spontaneous contrast. Patients with spontaneous contrast had significantly reduced survival (p = 0.025). On multivariate analysis, spontaneous contrast was the only positive predictor (odds ratio 3.5, p = 0.03) and warfarin therapy on follow-up the only negative predictor (odds ratio 0.23, p = 0.02) of subsequent stroke or other embolic events. Transesophageal echocardiography can risk stratify patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation by identifying left atrial spontaneous echo contrast. These patients have both a significantly higher risk of developing stroke or other embolic events and a reduced survival, and they may represent a subgroup in whom the risk/benefit ratio of anticoagulation may be most favorable.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-06-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2004
DOI: 10.1002/CCD.20161
Abstract: We assessed patient tolerance and resource utilization of using the AngioSeal closure device versus assisted manual compression using the Femostop device after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Patients undergoing PCI with clean arterial access and no procedural hematoma were randomized to receive the AngioSeal or Femostop device to achieve femoral arterial hemostasis. Times from procedure end to removal from angiography table, hemostasis, ambulation, and hospital discharge were recorded. Bedside nursing/medical officer care time, vascular complications, and disposable use were also documented. Patient comfort was assessed using Present Pain Intensity and Visual Analogue scales at baseline, 4 hr, 8 hr, and the morning after the procedure. One hundred twenty-two patients were enrolled (62 AngioSeal, 60 Femostop). Patients in the AngioSeal group took longer to be removed from the angiography table (11 +/- 4 vs. 9 +/- 3 min P = 0.002) compared with the Femostop group. Time to hemostasis (0.4 +/- 1.1 vs. 6.4 +/- 1.7 hr P < 0.001) and ambulation (17 +/- 8 vs. 22 +/- 13 hr P = 0.004) were less in the AngioSeal group, although time to discharge was not different. Nursing and medical officer time was no different. Disposables including device cost were higher in the AngioSeal group (209 dollars +/- 13 vs. 53 dollars +/- 9 P < 0.001). On a Visual Analogue scale, patients reported more pain at 4 hr (P < 0.001) and 8 hr (P < 0.001) in the Femostop group. The worst amount of pain at any time point was also more severe in the Femostop group (P < 0.001). Similar results were found on a Present Pain Intensity scale of pain. There were no differences in ultrasound-determined vascular complications (two each). Femoral access site closure using the AngioSeal device resulted in a small delay in leaving the angiography suite and a higher disposable cost compared to using the Femostop device. However, patients receiving the AngioSeal were able to ambulate sooner and reported less pain, which may justify the increased costs involved.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2010.01.027
Abstract: The maximum left atrial volume index (LAVI) has been shown to be of prognostic values, but previous studies have largely been limited to older patients with specific cardiovascular conditions. We examined the independent prognostic values of LAVI in a large unselected series of predominantly younger patients in sinus rhythm followed up for a long period. We evaluated 483 consecutive patients (mean age 47.3 years) using transthoracic echocardiography. The median LAVI was 24 ml/m(2). A primary combined end point of cardiovascular death, stroke, heart failure, myocardial infarction, and atrial fibrillation was sought. We had complete follow-up data for 97.3% of the 483 patients. During a median follow-up of 6.8 years, 86 patients (18.3%) reached the primary end point. Older age, male gender, diabetes, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, chronic renal failure, a history of myocardial infarction or stroke, a mitral E deceleration time of /=24 ml/m(2) were univariate predictors of the primary end point. Event-free survival was significantly lower for patients with a LAVI of >/=24 ml/m(2). Age, a history of stroke, hypertension, chronic renal failure, and male gender were independent clinical predictors. A LAVI of >/=24 ml/m(2) was the only independent echocardiographic predictor (hazard ratio 1.72, 95% confidence interval 1.34 to 2.13, p = 0.018), with the chi-square of the Cox model increased significantly with the addition of the LAVI (p <0.001). The LAVI independently predicted an increased risk of cardiovascular death, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, stroke, or myocardial infarction during a median follow-up of 6.8 years. In conclusion, the prognostic values were incremental to the clinical risks and were valid in a younger, general patient population.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-05-2006
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-1995
DOI: 10.1016/0735-1097(95)00259-2
Abstract: This study investigated the accuracy of mitral inflow quantification using biplane transesophageal echocardiography. Mitral stroke volume can be reliably quantified by transthoracic Doppler echocardiography, but previous studies involving monoplane transesophageal echocardiography have yielded mixed results. Thirty patients without mitral regurgitation were prospectively examined immediately before cardiovascular surgery. Mitral annulus diameter was measured in the transverse (d1) and longitudinal views (d2) by biplane transesophageal echocardiography. Assuming an elliptic shape, the annular area was calculated as pi d1d2/4 area was also calculated from single-plane data assuming a circular annular shape as pi d2/4. The time-velocity integral of mitral annular Doppler velocity was then multiplied by annular area to yield stroke volume. These data were compared with simultaneous thermodilution measurements by linear regression. Good correlations were observed between thermodilution (x) and Doppler (y) measurements of stroke volume (SV) (r = 0.86, p < 0.01, delta SV [y-x] = 2.64 +/- 9.86 ml for single four-chamber view r = 0.77, p < 0.01, delta SV = 1.82 +/- 12.59 ml for two-chamber view r = 0.94, p < 0.001, delta SV = 1.78 +/- 5.90 ml for biplane measurements) with similar data for cardiac output (r = 0.82, r = 0.74 and r = 0.92, respectively). The biplane measurements were most accurate and had less variability in in idual patients (p < 0.05). This finding was supported by a numerical model that demonstrated (for an ellipse of eccentricity 1.5:1) that even maximal misalignment of biplane diameters yielded only 8% area overestimation, whereas single-plane calculations assuming a circular shape produced a variation in area of 225%. This study validates the accuracy of measurements of mitral inflow using biplane transesophageal echocardiography with potential application for quantification of valvular regurgitation in the operating room. The results are further generalizable, indicating that orthogonal biplane measurements are both necessary and sufficient to ensure accuracy in area calculation for any elliptic structure.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2008.06.033
Abstract: Assessment of left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony after myocardial infarction has prognostic value. There were no reference ranges for 2-dimensional (2D) speckle tracking synchrony, and it was unclear whether color tissue Doppler imaging and 2D speckle tracking synchrony indexes were comparable. One hundred twenty-two healthy volunteers and 40 patients with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) had LV systolic and diastolic synchrony, defined as the SD of time to peak systolic (2D-SDTs) and early diastolic (2D-SDTe) velocities in the 12 basal and mid segments using 2D speckle tracking, respectively. Mean 2D-SDTs and 2D-SDTe were 29.4 +/- 16.1 and 14.2 +/- 6.1 ms in healthy subjects, respectively. Gender and mean 2D systolic velocity independently predicted 2D-SDTs, and mean 2D early diastolic velocity independently predicted 2D-SDTe. Bland-Altman analysis showed suboptimal agreement between 2D speckle tracking and tissue Doppler imaging dyssynchrony indexes. 2D speckle tracking showed lower coefficients of variation for time to peak systolic and early diastolic velocities than tissue Doppler imaging. There were no significant differences in coefficients of variation for 2D speckle tracking systolic and diastolic synchrony for high versus low frame rates. Patients with NSTEMI had significantly lower ejection fraction, but higher LV mass and wall stress than healthy subjects. Only 2D-SDTs was significantly higher in patients with NSTEMI compared with healthy subjects (37.1 +/- 22.5 vs 29.4 +/- 16.1 ms p = 0.02). In conclusion, 2D-SDTs was gender specific and influenced by global systolic function, and 2D-SDTe was influenced by global diastolic function. 2D speckle tracking and tissue Doppler imaging dyssynchrony indexes were not comparable. 2D speckle tracking may be a more sensitive discriminator of LV systolic dyssynchrony than tissue Doppler imaging.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.AHJ.2009.09.010
Abstract: Interpretation of dobutamine stress echocardiogram (DSE) is often subjective and requires expert training. The purposes of this study was to determine optimal cutoff values for longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strains at peak DSE for detection of significant stenoses on coronary angiography and to investigate incremental value of combining strain measurements to wall motion analysis. In this multicenter study, 102 patients underwent concomitant DSE and coronary angiography. Optimal cutoff values for mean global longitudinal (-20%), global circumferential (-26%), and mean radial (50%) strains at peak stress for detection of significant stenoses on coronary angiography were determined in a derivation group (n = 62) and tested in a prospectively recruited validation group (n = 40). Respective sensitivities for longitudinal, circumferential, radial strains, and expert wall motion score index (WMSI) were 84.2%, 73.9%, 78.3%, and 76% respective specificities were 87.5%, 78.6%, 57.1%, and 92.9% and respective accuracies were 85.2%, 75.7%, 70.3%, and 82.1%. Longitudinal strain analysis had comparable accuracy to WMSI (P = .70). However, combination longitudinal strain and WMSI had the highest sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy (100%, 87.5%, and 96.3% respectively), and its diagnostic accuracy was incremental to either longitudinal strain (P = .034) or WMSI alone (P = .008). Longitudinal strain analysis had higher diagnostic accuracy than circumferential and radial strains and was comparable to WMSI for detection of significant coronary artery disease. However, combination longitudinal strain and WMSI resulted in significant incremental increase in diagnostic accuracy.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.ECHO.2008.05.002
Abstract: The reference values and impact of physiologic variables on echocardiographic quantification of left ventricular (LV) synchrony in a large series of healthy persons are unknown. This study prospectively investigated the impact of age, gender, and other physiologic parameters on LV longitudinal and radial synchrony. LV longitudinal systolic and diastolic synchrony using tissue Doppler imaging were measured as the standard deviation of times to 12 regional peak myocardial systolic Sm (SDTs) and early diastolic Em (SDTe) velocities in 122 healthy volunteers (age 19-68 years, 64 men). By using 2-dimensional speckle tracking, radial synchrony was measured as the standard deviation of times to 6 regional peak strain (SDTrepsilon) in the short-axis papillary muscle level. Longitudinal systolic synchrony was also measured as the standard deviation of times to 12 regional peak strain (SDTlepsilon). The mean QRS duration and LV ejection fraction were 87 +/- 12 msec and 61% +/- 5.5%, respectively. The mean SDTs and SDTe were 37.1 +/- 17.4 msec and 17.3 +/- 6.7 msec, respectively. Gender and the mean Sm velocity from the 6 basal LV segments were independent predictors of SDTs, whereas the isovolumic relaxation time and mean Em velocity independently predicted SDTe. The mean SDTrepsilon was 19.2 +/- 14.6 msec. SDTrepsilon did not correlate with any clinical or echocardiographic parameters. The mean SDTlepsilon was 40.4 +/- 11.8 msec. Isovolumic relaxation time, pulmonary S/D ratio, and mean Sm independently predicted SDTlepsilon. There was no correlation between LV longitudinal and radial synchrony. Intraobserver and interobserver variability analyses showed the highest correlation for SDTs compared with SDTrepsilon and SDTlepsilon. This study establishes normal reference ranges for LV systolic and diastolic synchrony measured with tissue Doppler velocity-based and 2-dimensional speckle tracking-based methods in a large group of healthy subjects of both genders across a wide age group. SDTs is gender specific and dependent on global LV systolic function, whereas SDTe is dependent on global LV diastolic function. Two-dimensional speckle-derived radial synchrony is independent of any clinical and echocardiographic variables but has higher intraobserver and interobserver variability compared with SDTs. LV longitudinal synchrony does not correlate with radial synchrony.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-1997
DOI: 10.1016/S0735-1097(97)00167-8
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to define the value of exercise echocardiography as an independent predictor of cardiac events in women with known or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD), incremental to the data provided by clinical evaluation and exercise testing. Exercise echocardiography is more accurate than exercise electrocardiography for the identification of CAD in women. However, the prognostic implications of exercise echocardiography, especially relative to exercise electrocardiography, are undefined. Symptom-limited exercise echocardiography was performed in 549 consecutive women between 1989 and 1993. Echocardiography and electrocardiography were performed before and after treadmill exercise an abnormal result on exercise electrocardiography was defined by ST segment depression > 0.1 mV, ischemia by exercise echocardiography as a new or worse wall motion abnormality after exercise and scar by akinesia or dyskinesia at rest. After exclusion of six patients with uninterpretable studies (1%) and 35 (6%) lost to follow-up, 508 women (mean [+/-SD] age 55 +/- 11 years) were followed up for 41 +/- 10 months for cardiac-related death, infarction or late revascularization. The group attained 92 +/- 10% of age-predicted maximal heart rate, with an exercise capacity of 7 +/- 2 metabolic equivalents. Of 420 women with an interpretable electrocardiogram, significant ST segment changes were present in 68 (16%). Results of exercise echocardiography were normal in 413 (81%) women, positive for ischemia in 66 (13%) and scar only in 29 (6%). No events occurred in 444 patients (89%), and 19 underwent primary revascularization (within 3 months of exercise test). Cardiac events occurred in 36 women (7%), including 17 who died of cardia causes and 19 who had a myocardial infarction or required late revascularization for progressive symptoms. On univariate analysis, the variables associated with cardiac mortality and total cardiac events were a history of CAD, diabetes, left ventricular hypertrophy, exercise capacity and echocardiographic evidence of myocardial ischemia and infarction. A Cox proportional hazards model showed the independent predictors of outcome to be known CAD (odds ratio [OR] 6.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.2 to 13.7, p < 0.00001) and echocardiographic ischemia (OR 4.3, 95% CI 2.1 to 8.7, p < 0.0001). The prognostic value of exercise echocardiography incremental to clinical and exercise variables was demonstrated using sequential Cox models. In this large cohort of women, exercise echocardiography provided key prognostic information incremental to clinical and exercise testing data.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-06-2022
DOI: 10.1002/CCD.30300
Abstract: We examined the appropriateness of prehospital cardiac catheter laboratory activation (CCL‐A) in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) utilizing the University of Glasgow algorithm (UGA) and remote interventional cardiologist consultation. The incremental benefit of prehospital electrocardiogram (PH‐ECG) transmission on the diagnostic accuracy and appropriateness of CCL‐A has been examined in a small number of studies with conflicting results. We identified consecutive PH‐ECG transmissions between June 2, 2010 and October 6, 2016. Blinded adjudication of ECGs, appropriateness of CCL‐A, and index diagnoses were performed using the fourth universal definition of MI. The primary outcome was the appropriate CCL‐A rate. Secondary outcomes included rates of false‐positive CCL‐A, inappropriate CCL‐A, and inappropriate CCL nonactivation. Among 1088 PH‐ECG transmissions, there were 565 (52%) CCL‐As and 523 (48%) CCL nonactivations. The appropriate CCL‐A rate was 97% (550 of 565 CCL‐As), of which 4.9% ( n = 27) were false‐positive. The inappropriate CCL‐A rate was 2.7% (15 of 565 CCL‐As) and the inappropriate CCL nonactivation rate was 3.6% (19 of 523 CCL nonactivations). Reasons for appropriate CCL nonactivation ( n = 504) included nondiagnostic ST‐segment elevation ( n = 128, 25%), bundle branch block ( n = 132, 26%), repolarization abnormality ( n = 61, 12%), artefact ( n = 72, 14%), no ischemic symptoms ( n = 32, 6.3%), severe comorbidities ( n = 26, 5.2%), transient ST‐segment elevation ( n = 20, 4.0%), and others. PH‐ECG interpretation utilizing UGA with interventional cardiologist consultation accurately identified STEMI with low rates of inappropriate and false‐positive CCL‐As, whereas using UGA alone would have almost doubled CCL‐As. The benefits of cardiologist consultation were identifying “masquerading” STEMI and avoiding unnecessary CCL‐As.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1161/CIRCIMAGING.109.885152
Abstract: Background— 3D transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) may provide more accurate aortic annular and left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) dimensions and geometries compared with 2D TEE. We assessed agreements between 2D and 3D TEE measurements with multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and changes in annular/LVOT areas and geometries after transcatheter aortic valve implantations (TAVI). Methods and Results— Two-dimensional circular (π� r 2 ), 3D circular, and 3D planimetered annular and LVOT areas by TEE were compared with “gold standard” MSCT planimetered areas before TAVI. Mean MSCT planimetered annular area was 4.65�0.82 cm 2 before TAVI. Annular areas were underestimated by 2D TEE circular (3.89�0.74 cm 2 , P .001), 3D TEE circular (4.06�0.79 cm 2 , P .001), and 3D TEE planimetered annular areas (4.22�0.77 cm 2 , P .001). Mean MSCT planimetered LVOT area was 4.61�1.20 cm 2 before TAVI. LVOT areas were underestimated by 2D TEE circular (3.41�0.89 cm 2 , P .001), 3D TEE circular (3.89�0.94 cm 2 , P .001), and 3D TEE planimetered LVOT areas (4.31�1.15 cm 2 , P .001). Three-dimensional TEE planimetered annular and LVOT areas had the best agreement with respective MSCT planimetered areas. After TAVI, MSCT planimetered (4.65�0.82 versus 4.20�0.46 cm 2 , P .001) and 3D TEE planimetered (4.22�0.77 versus 3.62�0.43 cm 2 , P .001) annular areas decreased, whereas MSCT planimetered (4.61�1.20 versus 4.84�1.17 cm 2 , P =0.002) and 3D TEE planimetered (4.31�1.15 versus 4.55�1.21 cm 2 , P .001) LVOT areas increased. Aortic annulus and LVOT became less elliptical after TAVI. Conclusions— Before TAVI, 2D and 3D TEE aortic annular/LVOT circular geometric assumption underestimated the respective MSCT planimetered areas. After TAVI, 3D TEE and MSCT planimetered annular areas decreased as it assumes the internal dimensions of the prosthetic valve. However, planimetered LVOT areas increased due to a more circular geometry.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.HLC.2007.07.011
Abstract: Previous studies in the pre-stent era have evaluated the postprocedural use of unfractionated heparin (UFH) on clinically defined vascular complications and ischaemic cardiac complications. We prospectively evaluated the benefits and risks of this practice, using vascular ultrasound determined endpoints in the current stent era. Patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and enrolled in two of our previous routine and prospective vascular ultrasound studies were included in the analysis. Generally the decision to use UFH after sheath removal was at the discretion of the operator, however a subset of patients was randomised to receive UFH or not. Femoral vascular ultrasound was performed prior to hospital discharge and interpreted by an experienced vascular ultrasonographer blinded to whether UFH was used or not. The primary endpoint was a composite of significant vascular ultrasound determined complications including major haematoma, pseudoaneurysm, arterio-venous fistula, femoral venous or arterial thrombosis and retroperitoneal haemorrhage. Secondary endpoints included in hospital ischaemic events, length of stay and outcome at 30 days. A total of 530 patients (43% receiving UFH) were included in the analysis. The incidence of the primary endpoint for the entire population was 4.0% in both the UFH and no UFH groups (p=1.00). In the 226 (43%), randomised patient subset, the primary endpoint occurred in 5.2% in the UFH group and 4.5% in the no UFH group (p=0.80). Time to ambulation and discharge was similar in both groups. At 30 days, the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (4.7% for entire cohort) was similar in all groups whether randomised or not. When vascular ultrasound is used to determine major vascular complications the use of UFH after PCI in the stent era was not associated with increased major vascular complications. We also failed to provide evidence of a meaningful clinical benefit with the routine use of postprocedural heparin in this selected patient cohort.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-1996
DOI: 10.1016/0735-1097(96)00131-3
Abstract: This study was designed to develop a quantitative method of spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) assessment using integrated backscatter and to compare integrated backscatter SEC measurement with independent qualitative grades of SEC and clinical and echocardiographic predictors of thromboembolism. Left atrial SEC refers to dynamic swirling smokelike echoes that are associated with low flow states and embolic events and have been graded qualitatively as mild or severe. We performed transesophageal echocardiography in 43 patients and acquired digital integrated backscatter image sequences of the interatrial septum to internally calibrate the left ventricular cavity and left atrial cavity under different gain settings. Patients were independently assessed as having no, mild or severe SEC. We compared intensity of integrated backscatter in the left atrial cavity relative to that in the left ventricular as well as to the independently assessed qualitative grades of SEC. Fourier analysis characterized the temporal variability of SEC. The integrated backscatter was compared with clinical and echocardiographic predictors of thromboembolism. The left atrial cavity integrated backscatter intensity of the mild SEC subgroup was 4.7 dB higher than that from the left ventricular cavity, and the left atrial intensity of the severe SEC subgroup was 12.5 dB higher than that from the left ventricular cavity. The left atrial cavity integrated backscatter intensity correlated well with the qualitative grade. Fourier transforms of SEC integrated backscatter sequences revealed a characteristic dominant low frequency/high litude spectrum, distinctive from no SEC. There was a close relationship between integrated backscatter values and atrial fibrillation, left atrial size, left atrial appendage flow velocities and thrombus. Integrated backscatter provides an objective quantitative measure of SEC that correlates well with qualitative grade and is closely associated with clinical and echocardiographic predictors of thromboembolism. The relationship between integrated backscatter measures and cardioembolic risk will be defined in future multicenter studies.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 11-2005
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2003
DOI: 10.1067/MJE.2003.25
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-1999
DOI: 10.1016/S0002-9149(99)00330-6
Abstract: The reference values for right ventricular (RV) filling of normal persons and the effects of physiologic variables in a large series have not been described. The objective of this study was to characterize superior vena cava, hepatic vein, and RV inflow Doppler measurements in a large normal reference group to reflect the aging process, gender, heart rate, and effects of respiration. We prospectively performed pulsed-wave Doppler echocardiography of the superior vena cava, hepatic vein, and RV inflow during inspiration, expiration, and apnea in 115 healthy volunteers (62 women and 53 men) ranging in age from 21 to 84 years (mean +/- SEM 48 +/- 17). For analysis, the study subjects were classified by age into 2 groups: those or = 50 years of age (group 2 n = 55). Multiregression models were used to assess the influence of age, gender, and heart rate on Doppler variables. There were important differences in superior vena cava and RV inflow between the 2 groups. Group 2 had a greater superior vena cava peak atrial flow velocity (16 +/- 3 vs 13 +/- 3 cm/s), flow integrals (1.5 +/- 0.4 vs 1.1 +/- 0.3 cm), and reverse flow as a percentage of forward flow (17 +/- 6% vs 14 +/- 6%) than group 1. In group 2, peak RV inflow early filling velocity (41 +/- 8 vs 51 +/- 7 cm/s) and ratio of early filling-to-atrial filling (1.3 +/- 0.4 vs 2 +/- 0.5) were lower than that of group 1. Likewise, peak atrial filling velocity was higher (33 +/- 8 vs 27 +/- 8 cm/s) and deceleration time was longer (198 +/- 23 vs 188 +/- 22 ms) in group 2. The superior vena cava and hepatic vein peak forward flow velocities were significantly higher during inspiration than during expiration and apnea. Similarly, RV inflow velocities were significantly higher during inspiration than in expiration and apnea. Multiregression analysis showed that age, gender, and heart rate had important effects on Doppler variables. Thus, this study demonstrates the effects of aging and normal physiologic variable flow velocities in the superior vena cava, hepatic veins, and RV inflow in a large series of normal subjects.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-1997
DOI: 10.1016/S0002-9149(97)00014-3
Abstract: Impaired functional capacity is common in patients with mitral regurgitation (MR), but the determinants of functional capacity in patients with normal left ventricular (LV) function are unclear. Forty patients with chronic, isolated, nonrheumatic MR with no coronary artery disease underwent exercise echocardiography with continuous expired gas analysis. Cardiac output and regurgitant stroke volume were measured at rest and immediately after exercise by pulsed-wave Doppler echocardiography. For controls, 17 healthy volunteers without MR were also studied. Patients achieved a significantly lower VO2max compared with controls (25.6 +/- 7.7 vs 31.7 +/- 7.7 ml/kg/min, p = 0.008). VO2max showed better correlations with exercise cardiac output than with cardiac output at rest in both patients and controls. Multiple linear regression identified exercise cardiac output (partial r = 0.65), patient age (partial r = -0.56), and gender as independent determinants of VO2max (multiple R = 0.85, p <0.001). Cardiac output at rest, LV ejection fraction, regurgitant stroke volume, and fraction were not significant determinants. With exercise, the regurgitant stroke volume increased in 13 patients and decreased in 27 patients. The former 13 patients had a significantly lower exercise cardiac output (7.4 +/- 2.5 vs 9.4 +/- 2.6 L/min, p = 0.026). Patients who stopped exercise due to dyspnea (n = 7) had a significantly lower exercise cardiac output and VO2max compared with those who stopped due to fatigue (n = 33), with no differences in resting or exercise regurgitant volume. Patients with an increase in LV end-systolic volume with exercise (n = 8) also had a significantly lower exercise cardiac output (6.9 +/- 1.9 vs 9.2 +/- 2.7 L/min, p = 0.037) and showed a trend toward a lower VO2max (21 +/- 7.5 vs 26 +/- 6.4 ml/kg/min, p = 0.07). In patients with chronic MR, exercise cardiac output is the major determinant of VO2max. Regurgitant volume and fraction are not related to functional capacity. Limitations in functional capacity in these patients may be more related to a diminished cardiac reserve than to a large regurgitant volume.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2004
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.HLC.2012.12.011
Abstract: Drug-eluting stent (DES) deployment during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has reduced target-vessel revascularisation rates (TVR). The selective use of DES in patients at highest risk of restenosis may allay concerns about universal compliance of dual antiplatelet therapy for one year, and potentially reduce costs. If this strategy achieved acceptably low TVR rates, such an approach could be attractive. Late clinical outcomes were examined in 2115 consecutive patients (mean age 63±12 years, 75% male, 22% diabetics) who underwent PCI in the first three years from October 2003, after commencing the following selective criteria for DES use: left main stenosis ostial lesions of major epicardial arteries proximal LAD lesions lesions≥20mm in length with vessel diameter≤3.0mm lesions in vessels≤2.5mm diabetics with vessel(s)≤3.0mm and in-stent restenosis. Among patients undergoing PCI, 2075 (98%) patients received stents (29%≥1 DES and 71% bare metal stent [BMS]), and among those who received DES, there was a 92% compliance with these criteria. There were no differences in clinical outcomes between the two stent groups except for definite stent thrombosis, which occurred in 2% after DES, and 0.6% after BMS at one year (p=0.002). With BMS, large coronary arteries (≥3.5mm), intermediate (3-3.49mm) and small arteries (<3mm) in diameter had a TVR rate at one year of 3.6%, 7.2% and 8.2% respectively (p=0.005). It is possible to use selective criteria for DES while maintaining low TVR rates. The TVR rate with BMS was low in those with stent diameters≥3.5mm. The higher DES stent thrombosis rate reflects first generation DES use, though whether routine second generation DES use reduces these rates needs confirmation.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2005
DOI: 10.1002/CCD.20534
Abstract: To perform a randomized, ultrasound controlled trial to define the procedural and clinical advantages and limitations of 6 French (Fr) compared with 7 Fr transfemoral coronary intervention in the stenting era. The use of 7 Fr guiding catheters may facilitate Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), but may be associated with increased vascular complications when compared with 6 Fr catheters. Patients undergoing PCI considered suitable for either a 6 or 7 Fr sheath and guiding catheter system were included. All vascular sheaths were removed with assisted manual compression. Femoral vascular ultrasounds were performed prior to hospital discharge and interpreted by a vascular surgeon blinded to treatment assignment. The primary endpoint was a composite of significant vascular complications including major haematoma, retroperitoneal haematoma, pseudoaneurysm, arterio-venous fistula, or femoral venous or arterial thrombosis. During the study, 414 patients (mean age 61+/-11 years, 27% females) were randomly assigned to 6 Fr or 7 Fr sheath groups. The incidence of major vascular complications was 5.7% in the 6 Fr group and 3.9% in the 7 Fr group (P=0.383). There was no significant difference in procedural or angiographic success between the groups. The use of contrast volume was higher in the 7 Fr group (157+/-58 ml vs. 144+/-58 ml P=0.029). There was a trend toward better operator satisfaction with the 7 Fr guide (P=0.08). This prospective, randomized trial indicates no reduction in major peripheral vascular complications with the use of smaller guiding catheters in PCI. There was less contrast used in the 6 Fr group, which may benefit some patient subsets, however operators tended to prefer the larger 7 Fr system. The target coronary anatomy and need for complex device intervention should mandate the choice of guiding catheter size, not a perceived impact on vascular complications.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-1996
DOI: 10.1016/S0033-0620(96)80038-7
Abstract: In patients with atrial fibrillation, electrical cardioversion is often performed to relieve symptoms, to improve left ventricular function, and to decrease thromboembolic risks. However, cardioversion of atrial tachyarrhythmias is associated with an increased embolic risk, with an event rate of up to 5.6%. The American College of Chest Physicians recommend 3 weeks of systemic anticoagulation before elective cardioversion and 4 weeks of systemic anticoagulation afterwards. Expulsion of preexisting left atrial (LA) thrombi with resumption of sinus rhythm has traditionally been considered the mechanism for this increased embolic risk associated with cardioversion. The advent of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has allowed accurate detection of LA thrombus. Moreover, recent studies using TEE have identified a state of atrial "stunning" immediately after cardioversion, which is considered a thrombogenic milieu in which new thrombus formation and increased or de novo appearance of LA spontaneous echocardiographic contrast have been observed. Furthermore, embolic events have been reported after cardioversion despite exclusion of preexisting LA thrombus by TEE. These studies strongly suggest an alternative mechanism for embolism after cardioversion, ie, atrial stunning with worsened atrial appendage function and enhanced thrombogenesis. Recent studies have shown the safety of a TEE-guided anticoagulation approach in which exclusion of preexisting LA thrombus by TEE enables early cardioversion without the need for the standard 3 weeks of systemic anticoagulation. The importance of maintaining therapeutic anticoagulation has been further emphasized. Although preliminary observational studies of TEE-guided cardioversion are encouraging, there has been no prospective, randomized trial comparing the two strategies of anticoagulation management. The Assessement of Cardioversion Utilizing Transesophageal Echocardiography (ACUTE) pilot study randomized 126 patients from 10 sites and showed the feasibility and safety of the larger scale study. A larger multicenter, prospective randomized trial is now underway and is expected to randomize a total of 3,000 patients. The results of the ACUTE study will definitively establish the safest and the most cost-effective way to manage anticoagulation for elective cardioversion.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 18-11-2010
Abstract: To determine independent predictors of left ventricular (LV) dyssynchrony after non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and prognostic value of combining dyssynchrony parameters for long-term LV dysfunction. Left ventricular dyssynchrony assessments were performed in 100 NSTEMI patients followed-up for 1 year using a composite dyssynchrony score. Early LV dyssynchrony was independently predicted by the presence of significant proximal left circumflex artery (LCx) stenosis and global systolic dysfunction. Left ventricular end-diastolic volume index decreased with time and was independently determined by a lower number of diseased vessels and the absence of early dyssynchrony. Left ventricular end-systolic volume index decreased with time and was independently determined by the absence of early dyssynchrony, lower number of diseased vessels, and revascularization. Left ventricular ejection fraction increased with time and was independently determined by the absence of early dyssynchrony, lower number of diseased vessels, and revascularization. The composite dyssynchrony score was an independent determinant of a persistently dilated LV and low LVEF at follow-up. After NSTEMI, proximal LCx stenosis and impaired LV function independently predicted LV dyssynchrony. The composite dyssynchrony score had prognostic value and identified patients with persistently dilated and impaired LV on follow-up.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-1996
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 02-06-2007
DOI: 10.1111/J.1445-5994.2007.01390.X
Abstract: The American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association have published guidelines for coronary angiography. We evaluated the compliance rate with these guidelines in clinical practice, its correlation to results of angiography and aimed to identify problem areas of non-compliance. We prospectively evaluated 802 consecutive referrals for coronary angiography over 5 months in 2002 in a tertiary referral hospital. These referrals were assessed by two independent reviewers blinded to the results of angiography. Patient age was 62 +/- 11 years (522 men, 433 inpatients, 369 day-only patients). Referrals were outside published guidelines in 34.3 and 36.2% as evaluated by the two reviewers (concordance rate 88.2%, kappa = 0.74, p < 0.001). Intraobserver agreement was 97.5%. The rate of angiography showing either normal arteries or only minor diseases (<50%) was higher for referrals outside guidelines (68.4 vs 22.6%, P < 0.001). Compliance rate was high with indications of non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (99.2%) and ST-elevation myocardial infarction (95.8%), valvular disease (80%) and arrhythmia (80%). Compliance rate was lower with assessment of dyspnoea or heart failure (74.3%) and before non-cardiac surgery (72.7%) and was particularly low with assessment of chest pain (53.2%). Younger age (odds ratio (OR) 1.04, P < 0.001), female sex (OR 2.67, P < 0.001), day-only procedure (OR 2.27, P < 0.001) and non-invasive cardiologist referrer (OR 1.41, P = 0.046) were independent predictors of non-compliance. Referrals for coronary angiography were outside guidelines in a significant proportion of patients. Rate of negative angiography was higher when the referrals were outside guidelines. Problematic areas of non-compliance could be identified. Measures specifically targeting these areas may be more effective in improving the overall guideline compliance in clinical practice.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2004
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 13-09-2011
DOI: 10.1136/HEARTJNL-2011-300038
Abstract: To evaluate the potential age- and gender-specific differences in the incidence and prognostic value of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients undergoing CT coronary angiography (CTA). In this multicentre prospective registry study, 2432 patients (mean age 57 ± 12, 56% male) underwent CTA for suspected CAD. Patients were stratified into four groups according to age <60 or ≥60 years and, male or female gender. A composite end point of cardiac death and non-fatal myocardial infarction. CTA results were normal in 991 (41%) patients, showed non-significant CAD in 761 (31%) patients and significant CAD in the remaining 680 (28%) patients. During follow-up (median 819 days, 25-75th centile 482-1142) a cardiovascular event occurred in 59 (2.4%) patients. The annualised event rate was 1.1% in the total population (men=1.3% and women=0.9%). In patients aged <60 years, the annualised event rate of male and female patients was 0.6% and 0.5%, respectively. Among patients aged ≥60 years the annualised event rate was 1.9% in male and 1.1% in female patients. Observations on CTA predicted events in male patients, both age <60 and ≥60 years and in female patients age ≥60 years (log-rank test in all groups, p<0.01). However, CTA provided limited prognostic value in female patients aged <60 years (log-rank test, p=0.45). After age and gender stratification, CTA findings were shown to be of limited predictive value in female patients aged <60 years as compared with male patients at any age and female patients aged ≥60 years.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2008.12.029
Abstract: Right ventricular (RV) septal pacing has been advocated as an alternative to apical pacing to avoid long-term detrimental effects. There is conflicting evidence on the benefits of RV septal pacing. Fifty-five subjects (22 normal healthy controls, 17 with RV septal pacing, and 17 with apical pacing) were recruited. Midventricular short-axis left ventricular (LV) circumferential and radial strains were determined. Circumferential and radial strain dyssynchrony and longitudinal systolic dyssynchrony were determined. Echocardiographic determination of pacing sites were compared with electrocardiogram and chest x-ray. Septal pacing is a heterogenous group of different pacing sites, and there was only modest agreement among echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, and chest x-ray. Median pacing durations were 436 days for septal pacing and 2,398 days for apical pacing. Mean QRS duration for apical pacing was longest, followed by septal pacing and control (p <0.001). LV mass index, end-systolic volume index, and ejection fraction were more impaired in septal than in apical pacing (all p values <0.05). Septal pacing was associated with more impaired circumferential strain (p <0.001) and worse LV dyssynchrony than apical pacing and control. In conclusion, standard fluoroscopic and electrocardiographic implantation techniques for RV septal pacing resulted in a heterogenous group of different pacing sites. This heterogenous RV septal pacing group was associated with poorer long-term LV function and greater dyssynchrony than RV apical pacing and control.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2004
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-03-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-1996
DOI: 10.1016/S0735-1097(96)00281-1
Abstract: A formal evaluation of the health equity impact of a new intervention is hardly ever performed as part of a health technology assessment to understand its value. This should change, in our view. An evidence-based quantitative assessment of the health equity impact can help decision makers develop coverage policies, programme designs, and quality initiatives focused on optimizing both total health and health equity given the treatment options available. We outline the conceptual basis of how a new intervention can impact health equity and adopt distributional cost-effectiveness analysis based on decision-analytic models to assess this quantitatively, using a newly US FDA-approved drug for Alzheimer's disease (aducanumab) as an ex le. We argue that gaps in the evidence base for the new intervention, for ex le, due to limited clinical research participation among racial and ethnic minority groups, do not preclude such an evaluation. Understanding these uncertainties has implications for fair pricing, decision making, and future research. If we are serious about population-level decision making that not only is focused on improving total health but also aims to improve health equity, we should consider routinely assessing the health equity impact of new interventions.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1161/CIRCIMAGING.111.965608
Abstract: Diabetic patients have increased interstitial myocardial fibrosis on histological examination. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T 1 mapping is a previously validated imaging technique that can quantify the burden of global and regional interstitial fibrosis. However, the association between MRI T 1 mapping and subtle left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in diabetic patients is unknown. Fifty diabetic patients with normal LV ejection fraction (EF) and no underlying coronary artery disease or regional macroscopic scar on MRI delayed enhancement were prospectively recruited. Diabetic patients were compared with 19 healthy controls who were frequency matched in age, sex and body mass index. There were no significant differences in mean LV end-diastolic volume index, end-systolic volume index and LVEF between diabetic patients and healthy controls. Diabetic patients had significantly shorter global contrast-enhanced myocardial T 1 time (425±72 ms vs. 504±34 ms, P .001). There was no correlation between global contrast-enhanced myocardial T 1 time and LVEF ( r =0.14, P =0.32) in the diabetic patients. However, there was good correlation between global contrast-enhanced myocardial T 1 time and global longitudinal strain ( r =−0.73, P .001). Global contrast-enhanced myocardial T 1 time was the strongest independent determinant of global longitudinal strain on multivariate analysis (standardized β=−0.626, P .001). Similarly, there was good correlation between global contrast-enhanced myocardial T 1 time and septal E′ ( r =0.54, P .001). Global contrast-enhanced myocardial T 1 time was also the strongest independent determinant of septal E′ (standardized β=0.432, P .001). A shorter global contrast-enhanced myocardial T 1 time was associated with more impaired longitudinal myocardial systolic and diastolic function in diabetic patients.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-1999
DOI: 10.1002/(SICI)1522-726X(199912)48:4<388::AID-CCD14>3.0.CO;2-K
Abstract: We describe our recent experience of right ventricular perforation leading to cardiac t onade associated with a complex coronary angioplasty in which abciximab and a temporary pacing wire were used. This is to highlight the possibility that the combined use of temporary pacing wires and the IIb/IIIa receptor antagonists may be associated with an increased risk of this serious complication. Cathet. Cardiovasc. Intervent. 48:388-389, 1999.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2002
DOI: 10.1016/S0735-1097(02)02371-9
Abstract: The aim of this study was to evaluate left atrial volume and its changes with the phases (active and passive) of atrial filling, and to examine the effect of normal aging on these parameters and pulmonary vein (PV) flow patterns. Atrial volume change with normal aging has not been adequately described. Pulmonary vein flow patterns have not been volumetrically evaluated in normal aging. Combining atrial volumes and PV flow patterns obtained using transthoracic echocardiography could estimate shifts in left atrial mechanical function with normal aging. A total of 92 healthy subjects, ided into two groups: Group Y (young or =50 years), were prospectively studied. Maximal (Vol(max)) and minimal (Vol(min)) left atrial volumes were measured using the biplane method of discs and by three-dimensional echocardiographic reconstruction using the cubic spline interpolation algorithm. The passive filling, conduit, and active emptying volumes were also estimated. Traditional measures of atrial function, mitral peak A-wave velocity, velocity time integral (VTI), atrial emptying fraction, and atrial ejection force were measured. As age increased, Vol(max), Vol(min), and total atrial contribution to left ventricle (LV) stroke volume were not significantly altered. However, the passive emptying volume was significantly higher (14.2 +/- 6.4 ml vs. 11.6 +/- 5.7 ml p = 0.03) whereas the active emptying volume was lower (8.6 +/- 3.7 ml vs. 10.2 +/- 3.8 ml p = 0.04) in Group Y versus Group O. Pulmonary vein flow demonstrated an increase in peak diastolic velocity (Group Y vs. Group O) with no corresponding change in diastolic VTI or systolic fraction. Normal aging does not increase maximum (end-systolic) atrial size. The atrium compensates for changes in LV diastolic properties by augmenting active atrial contraction. Pulmonary vein flow patterns, although diastolic dominant using peak velocity, demonstrated no volumetric change with aging.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 03-12-2015
DOI: 10.1017/S0305004114000498
Abstract: The Catalan numbers are well known to be the answer to many different counting problems, and so there are many different families of sets whose cardinalities are the Catalan numbers. We show how such a family can be given the structure of a simplicial set. We show how the low-dimensional parts of this simplicial set classify, in a precise sense, the structures of monoid and of monoidal category. This involves aspects of combinatorics, algebraic topology, quantum groups, logic, and category theory.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.HLC.2005.03.007
Abstract: To investigate gender and age differences in coronary artery calcium (CAC) as determined by electron beam computed tomography (EBCT) in a Chinese population. Consecutive patients undergoing EBCT were sub ided into groups based on gender and decades of life. They were further sub ided into three groups with respect to symptoms of coronary artery disease: typical, atypical and asymptomatic. Total calcium score was calculated for each patient and means calculated for each subgroup. Groups were then compared with respect to age, gender and symptoms. During the study period, 953 patients (736 men and 217 female) aged 17-86 years (mean 55+/-11 years) underwent EBCT. The prevalence of CAC increased significantly with increasing age. The mean total calcium score also increased with increasing age in males and females of each symptom subgroup. The prevalence of coronary artery calcification was significantly higher in males than females until age in excess of 69 years (p<0.05). The prevalence of coronary artery calcification and mean calcium scores were significantly different between each symptom subgroup (p<0.001) with higher scores and prevalence in patients with typical symptoms of coronary disease. There is an increase in the prevalence of coronary artery calcification with age in Chinese subjects. Male subjects are more likely than female subjects to have detectable coronary calcification up until an age in excess of 69 years. Patients under the age of 70 years, with typical symptoms of coronary artery disease have a higher prevalence and mean calcium score than those with atypical or no symptoms.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-08-2005
DOI: 10.1111/J.1445-5994.2005.00897.X
Abstract: We compared a third generation quantitative cardiac troponin T (cTnT) point-of-care testing (POCT) from Roche Diagnostics with the laboratory assay (Roche Elecsys 2010 immunoassay analyser). Heparin-treated blood and serum were collected simultaneously in 133 unselected patients (mean age 62 +/- 14 years, 38% females) presenting to our hospital with possible cardiac chest pain. Results of the POCT were measured against the laboratory-based assay considered as the gold standard. There were 18 POCT positive versus 24 laboratory assay positive (> or = 0.03 ng/mL) patients. POCT was falsely negative in six patients, with values between 0.03 and 0.1 ng/mL. The POCT had a sensitivity of 75%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100%, negative predictive value of 95% and a total accuracy of 95% kappa = 0.831 (P < 0.001). There was good correlation between the values of POCT and the laboratory assay: Y = 1.195X + 0.002, r2 = 0.94 (P 0.1 mg/mL were reliably detected with this current generation of POCT, cTnT levels between 0.03 and 0.10 ng/mL were not. Future generations of devices will need to improve sensitivity to reliably risk stratify patients with suspected acute coronary syndromes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.JCMG.2010.11.018
Abstract: This study investigated changes in left atrial (LA) volumes and phasic atrial function, by deciles, with normal aging. LA volume increase is a sensitive independent marker for cardiovascular disease and adverse outcomes. To use this variable more effectively as a marker of pathology and a gauge of outcome, physiological changes due to aging alone need to be quantitated. A detailed transthoracic echocardiogram was performed in 220 normal subjects 89 (41%) were male and their age ranged from 20 to 80 years (mean 45 ± 17 years). Maximum (end-ventricular systole), minimum (end-ventricular diastole), and pre-a-wave volumes were measured using the biplane method of disks. LA filling, passive emptying, conduit and active emptying volumes, and fractions were calculated. Transmitral inflow, pulmonary vein flow, and pulsed-wave Doppler tissue imaging parameters were measured as expressions of left ventricular diastolic function. For purposes of analysis, subjects were ided by age deciles. LA indexed maximum (0.05 ml/m(2) per year) and minimum (0.06 ml/m(2) per year) volume increased with age but only became significant in the eighth decade (26.0 ± 6.3 ml/m(2), p = 0.02, and 13.5 ± 3.9 ml/m(2), respectively p < 0.001). Impaired left ventricular diastolic relaxation was apparent in decade 6 and was associated with a shift in phasic LA volumes so that LA expansion index and passive emptying decreased with increasing age, whereas active emptying volume increased. In normal healthy subjects, LA indexed volumes remain nearly stable until the eighth decade when they increase significantly. Therefore, an increase in LA size that occurs before the eighth decade is likely to represent a pathological change. Changes in phasic atrial volumes develop earlier consequent to age-related alteration in LV diastolic relaxation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJCARD.2006.04.045
Abstract: There is no consensus with respect to the use of analgesia during femoral arterial sheath removal after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We performed a randomized controlled trial to assess the impact of intravenous sedation and local anesthesia during femoral sheath removal after PCI on patient comfort and the incidence of vasovagal reactions. All patients undergoing PCI whose femoral sheaths were to be removed with assisted manual compression were eligible. Patients were randomized to receive either intravenous sedation (Fentanyl and Midazolam) or local anesthesia (1% lignocaine) infiltrated around the sheath site or both or neither. The primary endpoint of the study was the patients reported worst pain according to a Visual Analogue scale (VAS) after sheath removal. The incidence and predictors of vasovagal reactions during sheath removal and occurrence of vascular complications was also determined. A total of 611 patients were randomized into this study. The mean pain score was highest in the local anesthesia only arm as compared to the sedation only arm, the combined local and sedation arm and the neither sedation or local arm (p=0.001). vasovagal reactions were experienced by 35 patients (5.1%) with the highest percentage in the local anesthesia only group (9.8%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified a higher pain score (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.12-1.24, p=0.001), use of glyceryl trinitrate during sheath removal (OR 9.05, 95% CI 5.06-16.1, p<0.001), a lower body mass index (OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.08-1.18, p=0.009) and the left anterior descending artery as the treated vessel (OR 5.2, 95% CI 3.41-7.87, p<0.001) as independent predictors of the occurrence of a vasovagal reaction. There was no significant difference in vascular complications between the 4 study groups. The routine use of fentanyl and midazolam prior to sheath removal leads to a reduction in pain perception and vasovagal incidence, whilst the routine use of local infiltration during sheath removal should be discouraged as it leads to more pain and a trend to more vasovagal reactions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 1997
DOI: 10.1016/S0735-1097(97)87151-3
Abstract: We investigated the association of serum subfatin concentration and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI (NSTEMI). In this study, patients who presented with chest pain (STEMI, NSTEMI, or non-cardiac chest pain) were included, Subfatin concentrations were significantly different in the control, STEMI and NSTEMI groups (P = 0.002). In addition, subfatin concentrations were significantly lower in patients in the NSTEMI group than those in the control group (P < 0.001), but there was no significant difference between STEMI and the control group (P = 0.143). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis performed for differentiating the AMI and control groups found that subfatin had 64% sensitivity and 69% specificity, whereas troponin had 59% sensitivity and 95% specificity. In patients with AMI, the ROC analysis for differentiating NSTEMI from STEMI found that subfatin had 94% sensitivity and 41% specificity, while troponin had 65% sensitivity and 88% specificity. Subfatin concentrations were lower in patients without STEMI than in patients with STEMI. Subfatin concentration is associated with NSTEMI.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-1995
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2016
DOI: 10.1161/CIRCIMAGING.115.003643
Abstract: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus are at risk of heart failure. Specific therapeutic interventions for diabetic heart disease are still elusive. We aimed to examine the impact of improved glycemic control on left ventricular (LV) function in these patients. A total of 105 subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (aged 54±10 years) and poor glycemic control received optimization of treatment for blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol to recommended targets for 12 months. LV systolic and diastolic function, measured by LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and septal e′ velocities, were compared before and after optimization. At baseline, patients had impaired LV systolic (GLS −14.9±3.2%) and diastolic function (e′ 6.2±1.7 cm/s). After 12 months, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) decreased from 10.3±2.4% to 8.3±2.0%, which was associated with significant relative improvement in GLS of 21% and septal e′ of 24%. There was a progressively greater improvement in GLS as patients achieved a lower final HbA1c. Patients achieving an HbA1c of .0% had the largest improvement. The 15 patients whose HbA1c worsened experienced a decline in GLS. Patients who improved their HbA1c by ≥1.0% had a significantly higher relative improvement in e′ than those who did not (32% versus 8% P =0.003). Baseline GLS, decrease in body mass index, and treatment with metformin were additional independent predictors of GLS improvement. Improvements in glycemic control over a 12-month period led to improvements in LV systolic and diastolic function. This may have long-term prognostic implications.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-2016
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-2003
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 05-07-2022
Abstract: Patients with suspected ST‐segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and cardiac catheterization laboratory nonactivation (CCL‐NA) or cancellation have reportedly similar crude and higher adjusted risks of death compared with those with CCL activation, though reasons for these poor outcomes are not clear. We determined late clinical outcomes among patients with prehospital ECG STEMI criteria who had CCL‐NA compared with those who had CCL activation. We identified consecutive prehospital ECG transmissions between June 2, 2010 to October 6, 2016. Diagnoses according to the Fourth Universal Definition of myocardial infarction (MI), particularly rates of myocardial injury, were adjudicated. The primary outcome was all‐cause death. Secondary outcomes included cardiovascular death/MI/stroke and noncardiovascular death. To explore competing risks, cause‐specific hazard ratios (HRs) were obtained. Among 1033 included ECG transmissions, there were 569 (55%) CCL activations and 464 (45%) CCL‐NAs (1.8% were inappropriate CCL‐NAs). In the CCL activation group, adjudicated index diagnoses included MI (n=534, 94%, of which 99.6% were STEMI and 0.4% non‐STEMI), acute myocardial injury (n=15, 2.6%), and chronic myocardial injury (n=6, 1.1%). In the CCL‐NA group, diagnoses included MI (n=173, 37%, of which 61% were non‐STEMI and 39% STEMI), chronic myocardial injury (n=107, 23%), and acute myocardial injury (n=47, 10%). At 2 years, the risk of all‐cause death was higher in patients who had CCL‐NA compared with CCL activation (23% versus 7.9%, adjusted risk ratio, 1.58, 95% CI, 1.24–2.00), primarily because of an excess in noncardiovascular deaths (adjusted HR, 3.56, 95% CI, 2.07–6.13). There was no significant difference in the adjusted risk for cardiovascular death/MI/stroke between the 2 groups (HR, 1.23, 95% CI, 0.87–1.73). CCL‐NA was not primarily attributable to missed STEMI, but attributable to “masquerading” with high rates of non‐STEMI and myocardial injury. These patients had worse late outcomes than patients who had CCL activation, mainly because of higher rates of noncardiovascular deaths.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.AHJ.2010.06.041
Abstract: Quantification of segmental left ventricular (LV) strain by speckle-tracking echocardiography can identify transmural infarcts in patients with chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy. The aim of the study was to explore the relationship between the LV longitudinal peak systolic strain (LPSS) of the infarct, periinfarct, and remote zones and monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT) inducibility on electrophysiologic (EP) study. A total of 134 patients with chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy scheduled for EP study were included. The protocol consisted of clinical, electrocardiographic, and echocardiographic evaluation, including LV longitudinal strain analysis using speckle-tracking echocardiography, immediately before EP study. An infarct segment was defined as a longitudinal strain value of greater than -5%, and a periinfarct segment was defined as immediately adjacent to an infarct segment. The infarct zone had the most impaired longitudinal strain (-0.5% ± 3.0%), whereas the periinfarct and remote zones had more preserved longitudinal strain (-10.8% ± 1.9% and -14.5% ± 3.0%, respectively analysis of variance, P < .001). Seventy-two (54%) patients had inducible monomorphic VT on EP study. There was no significant difference in LV ejection fraction (31% ± 9% vs 32% ± 11%, P = .29) between inducible and noninducible patients. Longitudinal peak systolic strain of the periinfarct zone was more impaired in inducible patients (-9.8% ± 1.5% vs -11.0% ± 2.1%, P = .001), but no differences in LPSS of the infarct (-0.5% ± 3.2% vs -0.4% ± 2.7%, P = .75) and remote (-14.6% ± 2.8% vs -14.5% ± 3.4%, P = .92) zones were observed. Only LPSS of the periinfarct zone (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.15-1.78, P = .001) was independently related to monomorphic VT inducibility on multiple logistic regression. Longitudinal strain analysis may be a useful imaging tool to risk stratify ischemic patients for malignant ventricular arrhythmia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.AMJCARD.2009.06.063
Abstract: Regional left ventricular (LV) myocardial functional changes in early diabetic cardiomyopathy have not been well documented. LV multidirectional strain and strain rate analyses by 2-dimensional speckle tracking were used to detect subtle myocardial dysfunction in 47 asymptomatic, male patients (age 57 +/- 6 years) with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The results were compared to those from 53 male controls matched by age, body mass index, and body surface area. No differences were found in the LV end-diastolic volume index (40.7 +/- 8.9 vs 44.1 +/- 7.8 ml/m(2), p = NS), end-systolic volume index (16.0 +/- 4.8 vs 17.8 +/- 4.3 ml/m(2), p = NS), ejection fraction (61.0 +/- 5.5% vs 59.8 +/- 5.3%, p = NS). The transmitral E/A (0.95 +/- 0.21 vs 1.12 +/- 0.32, p = 0.007) and pulmonary S/D (1.45 +/- 0.28 vs 1.25 +/- 0.27, p = 0.001) ratios were more impaired in the patients with diabetes mellitus. Importantly, the diabetic patients had impaired longitudinal, but preserved circumferential and radial systolic and diastolic, function. Diabetes mellitus was an independent predictor for longitudinal strain, systolic strain rate and early diastolic strain rate on multiple linear regression analysis (all p <0.001). In conclusion, the LV longitudinal systolic and diastolic function were impaired, but the circumferential and radial functions were preserved in patients with uncomplicated type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
No related grants have been discovered for Dominic Leung.