Myocardial Strain in the Assessment of Patients With Heart Failure: A Review

The use of left ventricular ejection fraction in the diagnosis and management of heart failure. A clinical consensus statement of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the ESC, the Heart Failure Society of America (HFSA), and the Japanese Heart Failure Society (JHFS)

This clinical consensus statement revisits the role of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) as a measurement of cardiac function, a prognostic marker and a major criterion to classify patients with heart failure, and gives new advice for clinical practice. Heart failure is traditionally classified on the basis of LVEF thresholds and this has major implications for treatment recommendations. However, the reproducibility of LVEF measurement is poor and its prognostic and diagnostic value lessens when it is above 45%, with no relationship with the severity of either cardiac dysfunction or outcomes at higher values. These limitations dictate the need for a more comprehensive approach to classify and assess heart failure focusing more on the trajectory of LVEF rather than to its absolute value. Furthermore, the assessment of LVEF is not required for the initiation of treatments like sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists and diuretics in patients with suspected de novo heart failure and elevated N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels. Future research utilizing advanced imaging techniques and biomarkers which can better characterize myocardial structure, metabolism and performance may facilitate the identification of alternative therapeutic targets and better ways to monitor heart failure therapies across the entire spectrum of LVEF.

Establishment and validation of a critical care echocardiography-based predictive model for sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Integrating echocardiographic parameters for a comprehensive and precise evaluation of sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) presents a significant challenge.

RESEARCH QUESTION

To develop a nomogram for the echocardiographic diagnosis of SIC.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A cohort of 181 septic patients was prospectively enrolled for critical care echocardiography assessments. The cohort was randomly divided into a training dataset (70 %, n = 126) and a validation dataset (30 %, n = 55). The LASSO regression analysis was used to identify key echocardiographic predictors, which were then analyzed using multivariate logistic regression to determine the final diagnostic predictors and establish an echocardiographic model for SIC. A nomogram was developed based on the model, which was evaluated and verified for discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility.

RESULTS

Three key predictors, including left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS), early diastolic mitral flow velocity (E), and tricuspid annular plane systolic motion amplitude (TAPSE), were selected from 14 variables to develop a SIC echocardiographic predictive model. The model exhibited a strong discrimination with an area under the curve (AUC) value of 0.879 in the training dataset and 0.888 in the validation dataset. The results of the Hosmer-Lemeshow test further validated the consistency between predicted probabilities and actual outcomes in both datasets. Decision curve analysis (DCA) indicated a substantial net clinical benefit within risk threshold ranges of 5-100 % in the training dataset and 21-100 % in the validation dataset.

CONCLUSION

The nomogram, incorporating GLS, E, and TAPSE, emerged as a reliable non-invasive tool for assessing the risk of SIC.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study protocol was registered in the ChiCTR database (Registration No. ChiCTR2200066966; Date of Registration: December 22, 2022).

Evaluation of Right and Left Ventricular Deformation Analysis in İdiopathic Right Bundle Branch Block by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic right bundle branch block (RBBB) is often seen as harmless and common. However, many studies show it might be linked to negative health outcomes. So, it is crucial to fully understand how RBBB affects the heart's ventricles.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to examine the right and left ventricular systolic functions in patients with idiopathic RBBB and compare them to those in a healthy control group.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Echocardiographic images were obtained from patients with idiopathic RBBB and healthy control participants. Conventional echocardiographic parameters were measured. Two-dimensional (2D) speckle tracking strain analysis was used to assess deformation indices.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients with idiopathic RBBB and 35 healthy participants were included in the study. There were no significant differences in the chamber dimensions of the left ventricle (LV) and right ventricle (RV) between the groups. LV ejection fraction (EF), RV fractional area change (FAC), and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) measurements were similar between the groups. LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) (-25.5 ± 5.7% vs. -22.1 ± 4.2%, p < 0.05), RV GLS (-26.9 ± 4.6% vs. -24.0 ± 4.4%, p < 0.05), and interventricular septum longitudinal strain (IVS LS) (-24.3 ± 4.9% vs. -19.1 ± 4.2%, p < 0.05) were significantly reduced in patients with idiopathic RBBB compared to controls, indicating impaired myocardial shortening. Significant differences were also observed in LV (15 [5-30] vs. 30 [20-60], p < 0.05) and RV (18 [7-35] vs. 36 [24-80], p < 0.05) mechanical dispersion, with the differences being more pronounced for the RV between the groups. LV torsion (2.1 ± 0.6 vs. 1.6 ± 0.5, p < 0.05) was also worse in patients with idiopathic RBBB.

CONCLUSION

Our findings show that idiopathic RBBB significantly affects the longitudinal strain and synchronization of both the LV and RV.

Correlation between CT-derived fractional flow reserve and myocardial strain in ischemic heart disease patients with single coronary artery stenosis assessed based on CCTA

Purpose

We aimed to investigate the correlation between CT-derived fractional flow reserve (CTFFR) and myocardial strain in patients with single coronary artery stenosis and to investigate the diagnostic value of CTFFR in identifying impaired myocardial strain.

Methods

We selected 89 patients, categorized into three groups based on the affected coronary artery: 36 with left anterior descending (LAD), 23 with left circumflex (LCX), and 30 with right coronary artery (RCA) stenosis, along with 25 healthy controls. We investigated correlations between CTFFR and both global and regional myocardial strain parameters. Additionally, we assessed the ability of the CTFFR to detect impaired myocardial strain in these patients.

Results

In this study, no significant difference was found in overall myocardial strain between the patient and control groups. However, regional longitudinal strain (LS) and circumferential strain (CS) in the myocardial areas supplied by stenotic coronary arteries was significantly lower in each patient group compared to the others (P < 0.001). The CTFFR exhibited a strong negative correlation with both regional and global myocardial strain, with a stronger association for regional strain. Particularly in group LAD, CTFFR in optimal diastole phase (CTFFR-D) was negatively correlated with Endo-LS (r = -0.66, P < 0.001). Receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis indicated that CTFFR were effective in diagnosing impaired myocardial strain, particularly LS.

Conclusion

There is a strong correlation between CTFFR, which is a functional measure for assessing coronary artery stenosis, and myocardial strain. CTFFR can identify impaired myocardial strain and can be used as an indirect indicator of myocardial ischemia.

Echocardiography in the Assessment of Heart Failure Patients

Doppler echocardiography is the corner-stone of non-invasive investigation of patients with a clinical diagnosis of heart failure. It provides an accurate and quantitative assessment of cardiac structure and function. Furthermore, spectral Doppler measurement is an invaluable technique for estimating intracardiac pressures with their crucial value in the optimum management of heart failure patients, irrespective of ejection fraction. Speckle tracking echocardiography stretches the unique application of echocardiography to analyze the myocardial deformation function which has proved very accurate in detecting ischemia, dyssynchrony, subclinical dysfunction and also in estimating pulmonary capillary wedge pressures. The role of longitudinal myocardial left atrial deformation dynamics has recently emerged as a valuable tool for assessing left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with cardiac diseases regardless of their ejection fraction. Finally, the extent of myocardial deformation has been shown to correlate with the severity of myocardial fibrosis, a common finding in patients with heart failure.

Abnormal Global Longitudinal Strain During Anthracycline Treatment Predicts Future Cardiotoxicity in Children

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a sensitive predictor of cardiotoxicity in adults with cancer. However, the significance of abnormal GLS during childhood cancer treatment is less well-understood. The objective was to evaluate the use of GLS for predicting later cardiac dysfunction in pediatric cancer survivors exposed to high-dose anthracyclines. This was a retrospective study of pediatric patients exposed to a doxorubicin isotoxic equivalent dose of ≥ 225 mg/m2. Transthoracic echocardiograms (TTE) were obtained prior to chemotherapy (T1), during anthracycline therapy (T2), and following completion of therapy (T3). Cardiotoxicity was defined as meeting at least one of the following criteria after anthracycline therapy: a decrease in left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) by 10% from baseline to a value < 55%, fractional shortening < 28%, or a decrease in GLS by ≥ 15% from baseline. Nineteen of 57 (33%) patients met criteria for cardiotoxicity at T3. Cardiotoxicity was associated with a lower LVEF at T2 (p = 0.0003) and a decrease in GLS by ≥ 15% at T2 compared to baseline (p =  < 0.0001). ROC analysis revealed that the best predictor of cardiotoxicity at T3 was the percent change in GLS at T2 compared to baseline (AUC 0.87). A subgroup analysis revealed that a decrease in GLS by ≥ 15% from baseline at 0-6 months from completion of anthracycline therapy was associated with cardiotoxicity > 1-year post-treatment (p = 0.017). A decline in GLS during chemotherapy was the best predictor of cardiotoxicity post-treatment. GLS serves as an important marker of cardiac function in pediatric patients undergoing treatment with anthracyclines.

Diverse distribution patterns of segmental longitudinal strain are associated with different clinical features and outcomes in dilated cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) presents with diverse clinical courses, hardly predictable solely by the left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF). Longitudinal strain (LS) offers distinct information from LVEF and exhibits various distribution patterns. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of LS distribution patterns in DCM.

METHODS

We studied 139 patients with DCM (LVEF ≤ 35%) who were admitted for heart failure (HF). LS distribution was assessed using a bull's eye map and the relative apical LS index (RapLSI), calculated by dividing apical LS by the sum of basal and mid-LS values. We evaluated the associations of LS distribution with cardiac events (cardiac death, LV assist device implantation, or HF hospitalization) and LV reverse remodeling (LVRR), as indicated by subsequent LVEF changes.

RESULTS

Twenty six (19%) and 29 (21%) patients exhibited a pattern of relatively apical impaired or preserved LS (defined by RapLSI < 0.25 or > 0.75, signifying a 50% decrease or increase in apical LS compared to other segments), and the remaining patients exhibited a scattered/homogeneously impaired LS pattern. The proportion of new-onset heart failure and LVEF differed between the three groups. During the median 595-day follow-up, patients with relatively-impaired apical LS had a higher rate of cardiac events (both log-rank p < 0.05) and a lower incidence of LVRR (both p < 0.01) compared to patients with other patterns. RapLSI was significantly associated with cardiac event rates after adjusting for age, sex, and new-onset HF or global LS.

CONCLUSION

DCM patients with reduced EF and distinct distribution patterns of impaired LS experienced different outcomes.

Moderately Increased Left Ventricular Filling Pressure Suggesting Early Stage of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction in Patients with Invasively Assessed Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction

Background: With modern diagnostic tools, incidence ischemia with no obstructive coronary atherosclerosis (INOCA) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are found to be much higher than previously believed, and-as they lead to adverse cardiovascular outcomes-their causes and development are subjects of ongoing research. There is growing evidence that coronary microvascular dysfunction might be the underlying cause of both INOCA and HFpEF. Methods: In 65 patients with effort angina but no obstructive coronary artery disease, the index of microvascular resistance and coronary flow reserve were measured invasively in the LAD. The echocardiographic parameters, including left atrial strain, left ventricular strain, and indices of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, were compared between two groups of patients: those with normal coronary microcirculation parameters and those with impaired coronary microvascular function. Results: Patients with coronary microvascular dysfunction had higher a E/E' index than those with normal microvessel reactivity. This finding was further confirmed by ROC analysis. The groups did not differ significantly in values of other echocardiographic parameters, including the left ventricular and left atrial strain. The prevalence of classical cardiovascular risk factors was similar in both groups. Conclusions: The coexistence of impaired coronary microvascular function with moderately elevated left ventricular filling pressures might correspond to the co-development of early stages of coronary microvascular dysfunction and HFpEF.

Myocardial mechanical function measured by cardiovascular magnetic resonance in patients with heart failure

BACKGROUND

Strain analysis offers a valuable tool to assess myocardial mechanics, allowing for the detection of impairments in heart function. This study aims to evaluate the pattern of myocardial strain in patients with heart failure (HF).

METHODS

In the present study, myocardial strain was measured by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging feature tracking in 35 control subjects without HF and 195 HF patients. The HF patients were further categorized as HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF, n = 80), with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF, n = 34), and with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF, n = 81). Additionally, quantitative tissue evaluation parameters, including native T1 relaxation time and extracellular volume (ECV), were examined.

RESULTS

Compared to controls, patients in all HF groups (HFpEF, HFmrEF, and HFrEF) demonstrated impaired left ventricular (LV) strains and systolic and diastolic strain rates in all three directions (radial, circumferential, and longitudinal) (p < 0.05 for all). LV strains also showed significant correlations with LV ejection fraction and brain natriuretic peptide levels (p < 0.001 for all). Notably, septal contraction was significantly affected in HFpEF compared to controls. While LV torsion was slightly increased in HFpEF, it was decreased in HFrEF. Native T1 relaxation times and ECV fractions were significantly higher in HFrEF compared to HFpEF (p < 0.05). Overall, myocardial strain parameters demonstrated good performance in differentiating HF categories.

CONCLUSIONS

The myocardial strain impairments exhibit a spectrum of severity in patients with HFpEF, HFmrEF, and HFrEF compared to controls. Assessment of myocardial mechanics using strain analysis may offer a clinically useful tool for monitoring the progression of systolic and diastolic dysfunction in HF patients.

Left Ventricular Segmentation, Warping, and Myocardial Registration for Automated Strain Measurement

The left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS) is a crucial prognostic indicator. However, inconsistencies in measurements due to the speckle tracking algorithm and manual adjustments have hindered its standardization and democratization. To solve this issue, we proposed a fully automated strain measurement by artificial intelligence-assisted LV segmentation contours. The LV segmentation model was trained from echocardiograms of 368 adults (11,125 frames). We compared the registration-like effects of dynamic time warping (DTW) with speckle tracking on a synthetic echocardiographic dataset in experiment-1. In experiment-2, we enrolled 80 patients to compare the DTW method with commercially available software. In experiment-3, we combined the segmentation model and DTW method to create the artificial intelligence (AI)-DTW method, which was then tested on 40 patients with general LV morphology, 20 with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCMP), and 20 with transthyretin-associated cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CA), 20 with severe aortic stenosis (AS), and 20 with severe mitral regurgitation (MR). Experiments-1 and -2 revealed that the DTW method is consistent with dedicated software. In experiment-3, the AI-DTW strain method showed comparable results for general LV morphology (bias - 0.137 ± 0.398%), DCMP (- 0.397 ± 0.607%), ATTR-CA (0.095 ± 0.581%), AS (0.334 ± 0.358%), and MR (0.237 ± 0.490%). Moreover, the strain curves showed a high correlation in their characteristics, with R-squared values of 0.8879-0.9452 for those LV morphology in experiment-3. Measuring LVGLS through dynamic warping of segmentation contour is a feasible method compared to traditional tracking techniques. This approach has the potential to decrease the need for manual demarcation and make LVGLS measurements more efficient and user-friendly for daily practice.

Transforming Heart Failure Management: The Power of Strain Imaging, 3D Imaging, and Vortex Analysis in Echocardiography

Heart failure (HF) remains a critical global health challenge, necessitating advancements in diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. This review explores the evolution of imaging technologies and their impact on HF management, focusing on three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE), myocardial strain imaging, and vortex dynamics imaging. Three-dimensional echocardiography enhances traditional echocardiography by providing more accurate assessments of cardiac structures, while myocardial strain imaging offers the early detection of subclinical myocardial dysfunction, crucial in conditions such as chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity and ischemic heart disease. Vortex dynamics imaging, a novel technique, provides insights into intracardiac flow patterns, aiding in the evaluation of left ventricular function, valve diseases, and congenital heart anomalies. The integration of these advanced imaging modalities into clinical practice facilitates personalized treatment strategies, enabling the earlier diagnosis and more precise monitoring of disease progression. The ongoing refinement of these imaging techniques holds promise for improving patient outcomes and advancing the field of precision medicine in HF care.

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain and cardiorespiratory fitness in patients with heart failure: Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is no definition for strain deformation values in relation to cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in different heart failure (HF) phenotypes.

AIM

To identify the relationship between echocardiographic systolic function measurements and CRF in HF patients.

METHODS

Systematic review and meta-analysis following the PRISMA recommendations. Studies reporting echocardiographic assessments of left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and direct measurement of peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) in HF patients with reduced or preserved LVEF (HFrEF, HFpEF) were included. The patients were divided into Weber classes according to VO2peak.

RESULTS

A total of 25 studies involving of 2,136 patients (70.5% with HFpEF) were included. Mean LVEF and LVGLS were similar in HFpEF patients in Weber Class A/B and Class C/D. In HFrEF patients, a non-significant difference was found in LVEF between Weber Class A/B (30.2% [95%CI: 29.6 to 30.9%]) and Class C/D (25.2% [95%CI: 20.5 to 29.9%]). In HFrEF patients, mean LVGLS was significantly lower in Class C/D compared to Class A/B (6.5% [95%CI: 6.0 to 7.1%] and 10.3% [95%CI: 9.0 to 11.5%], respectively). The correlation between VO2peak and LVGLS (r2 = 0.245) was nearly twofold stronger than that between VO2peak and LVEF (r2 = 0.137).

CONCLUSIONS

Low LVGLS values were associated with low CRF in HFrEF patients. Although a weak correlation was found between systolic function at rest and CRF, the correlation between VO2peak and LVGLS was nearly twofold stronger than that with LVEF, indicating that LVGLS may be a better predictor of CRF in patients with HFrEF.

Left atrial stiffness index - an early marker of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with coronary heart disease

AIMS

To evaluate the correlation between left atrial stiffness index (LASI) and left ventricular diastolic function in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) by Autostrain LA technique.

METHODS

This was a retrospective analysis that included a total of 82 CHD patients who had suitable image quality for left atrial strain measurement. According to the 2016 ASE/EACVI guidelines for the echocardiographic assessment of diastolic dysfunction, the patients were divided into three groups: normal left ventricular diastolic function group (n = 26), indeterminate left ventricular diastolic function (n = 36), and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) (n = 20). The left atrial conduit strain (LAScd), Left atrial contractile strain (LASct), left atrial reservoir strain (LASr) and its derived parameters, including LASI and left atrial filling index (LAFI), were compared among the three groups. Furthermore, we conduct a correlation analysis between LASI and left ventricular diastolic function in patients with CHD.

RESULTS

LASr and LAScd in normal group were higher than those in indeterminate group, LASr and LAScd in indeterminate group were higher than those in LVDD group, LASI in normal group was lower than that in indeterminate group, and LASI in indeterminate group was lower than that in LVDD group (P < 0.001). LASct in both normal and indeterminate groups was higher than that in LVDD group (P < 0.05). The LAFI of normal group was lower than that of indeterminate group and LVDD group (P < 0.001). LASI was positively correlated with E/e'(r = 0.822) (P < 0.001). LASr and E/e' were negatively correlated (r = -0.637) (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

LASI is closely related to the changes of left ventricular diastolic function in CHD patients.

Complete spatiotemporal quantification of cardiac motion in mice through enhanced acquisition and super-resolution reconstruction

The quantification of cardiac motion using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) has shown promise as an early-stage marker for cardiovascular diseases. Despite the growing popularity of CMR-based myocardial strain calculations, measures of complete spatiotemporal strains (i.e., three-dimensional strains over the cardiac cycle) remain elusive. Complete spatiotemporal strain calculations are primarily hampered by poor spatial resolution, with the rapid motion of the cardiac wall also challenging the reproducibility of such strains. We hypothesize that a super-resolution reconstruction (SRR) framework that leverages combined image acquisitions at multiple orientations will enhance the reproducibility of complete spatiotemporal strain estimation. Two sets of CMR acquisitions were obtained for five wild-type mice, combining short-axis scans with radial and orthogonal long-axis scans. Super-resolution reconstruction, integrated with tissue classification, was performed to generate full four-dimensional (4D) images. The resulting enhanced and full 4D images enabled complete quantification of the motion in terms of 4D myocardial strains. Additionally, the effects of SRR in improving accurate strain measurements were evaluated using an in-silico heart phantom. The SRR framework revealed near isotropic spatial resolution, high structural similarity, and minimal loss of contrast, which led to overall improvements in strain accuracy. In essence, a comprehensive methodology was generated to quantify complete and reproducible myocardial deformation, aiding in the much-needed standardization of complete spatiotemporal strain calculations.

Correlation between the triglyceride-glucose index and left ventricular global longitudinal strain in patients with chronic heart failure: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) holds greater diagnostic and prognostic value than left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in the heart failure (HF) patients. The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index serves as a reliable surrogate for insulin resistance (IR) and is strongly associated with several adverse cardiovascular events. However, there remains a research gap concerning the correlation between the TyG index and GLS among patients with chronic heart failure (CHF).

METHOD

427 CHF patients were included in the final analysis. Patient demographic information, along with laboratory tests such as blood glucose, lipids profiles, and echocardiographic data were collected. The TyG index was calculated as Ln [fasting triglyceride (TG) (mg/dL) × fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (mg/dL)/2].

RESULTS

Among CHF patients, GLS was notably lower in the higher TyG index group compared to the lower TyG index group. Following adjustment for confounding factors, GLS demonstrated gradual decrease with increasing TyG index, regardless of the LVEF level and CHF classification.

CONCLUSION

Elevated TyG index may be independently associated with more severe clinical left ventricular dysfunction in patients with CHF.

Diagnostic and prognostic value of an ejection fraction adjusted for myocardial remodeling

Introduction

Ejection fraction (EF) is widely used to evaluate heart function during heart failure (HF) due to its simplicity compared but it may misrepresent cardiac function during ventricular hypertrophy, especially in heart failure with preserved EF (HFpEF). To resolve this shortcoming, we evaluate a correction factor to EF, which is equivalent to computing EF at the mid-wall layer (without the need for mid-layer identification) rather than at the endocardial surface, and thus better complements other complex metrics.

Method

The retrospective cohort data was studied, consisting of 2,752 individuals (56.5% male, age 69.3 ± 16.4 years) admitted with a request of a troponin test and undergoing echocardiography as part of their clinical assessment across three centres. Cox-proportional regression models were constructed to compare the adjusted EF (EFa) to EF in evaluating risk of heart failure admissions.

Result

Comparing HFpEF patients to non-HF cases, there was no significant difference in EF (62.3 ± 7.6% vs. 64.2 ± 6.2%, p = 0.79), but there was a significant difference in EFa (56.6 ± 6.4% vs. 61.8 ± 9.9%, p = 0.0007). Both low EF and low EFa were associated with a high HF readmission risk. However, in the cohort with a normal EF (EF ≥ 50%), models using EFa were significantly more associative with HF readmissions within 3 years, where the leave one out cross validation ROC analysis showed a 18.6% reduction in errors, and Net Classification Index (NRI) analysis showed that risk increment classification of events increased by 12.2%, while risk decrement classification of non-events decreased by 16.6%.

Conclusion

EFa is associated with HF readmission in patients with a normal EF.

Methods to predict heart failure in diabetes patients

INTRODUCTION

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is one of the leading causes of cardiovascular disease and powerful predictor for new-onset heart failure (HF).

AREAS COVERED

We focus on the relevant literature covering evidence of risk stratification based on imaging predictors and circulating biomarkers to optimize approaches to preventing HF in DM patients.

EXPERT OPINION

Multiple diagnostic algorithms based on echocardiographic parameters of cardiac remodeling including global longitudinal strain/strain rate are likely to be promising approach to justify individuals at higher risk of incident HF. Signature of cardiometabolic status may justify HF risk among T2DM individuals with low levels of natriuretic peptides, which preserve their significance in HF with clinical presentation. However, diagnostic and predictive values of conventional guideline-directed biomarker HF strategy may be non-optimal in patients with obesity and T2DM. Alternative biomarkers affecting cardiac fibrosis, inflammation, myopathy, and adipose tissue dysfunction are plausible tools for improving accuracy natriuretic peptides among T2DM patients at higher HF risk. In summary, risk identification and management of the patients with T2DM with established HF require conventional biomarkers monitoring, while the role of alternative biomarker approach among patients with multiple CV and metabolic risk factors appears to be plausible tool for improving clinical outcomes.

Progress in Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Feature Tracking for Evaluating Myocardial Strain in Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus

The global prevalence of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has caused harm to human health and economies. Cardiovascular disease is one main cause of T2DM mortality. Increased prevalence of diabetes and associated heart failure (HF) is common in older populations, so accurately evaluating heart-related injury and T2DM risk factors and conducting early intervention are important. Quantitative cardiovascular system imaging assessments, including functional imaging during cardiovascular disease treatment, are also important. The left-ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) has been traditionally used to monitor cardiac function; it is often preserved or increased in early T2DM, but subclinical heart deformation and dysfunction can occur. Myocardial strains are sensitive to global and regional heart dysfunction in subclinical T2DM. Cardiac magnetic resonance feature-tracking technology (CMR-FT) can visualize and quantify strain and identify subclinical myocardial injury for early management, especially with preserved LVEF. Meanwhile, CMR-FT can be used to evaluate the multiple cardiac chambers involvement mediated by T2DM and the coexistence of complications. This review discusses CMR-FT principles, clinical applications, and research progress in the evaluation of myocardial strain in T2DM.

Comprehensive diagnostic workup in patients with suspected heart failure and preserved ejection fraction

Diagnosis of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) can be challenging and it could require different tests, some of which are affected by limited availability. Nowadays, considering that new therapies are available for HFpEF and related conditions, a prompt and correct diagnosis is relevant. However, the diagnostic role of biomarker level, imaging tools, score-based algorithms and invasive evaluation, should be based on the strengths and weaknesses of each test. The aim of this review is to help the clinician in diagnosing HFpEF, overcoming the diagnostic uncertainty and disentangling among the different underlying causes, in order to properly treat this kind of patient.

The usefulness of echo-based hemodynamic parameters in cardiac resynchronization therapy with conduction system pacing for optimal device programing

BACKGROUND

His bundle pacing (HBP) has proved to be a valuable alternative enabling the physiological activation of cardiac contraction in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). At present, however, little is known about the optimal method of programming of the His bundle-paced CRT systems in terms of achieving the best cardiac output.

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of cardiac resynchronization therapy with conduction system pacing (CRT+CSP) on echo-based hemodynamic parameters in the early post-operative measurements.

METHODS

The study enrollment criteria included: permanent atrial fibrillation, heart failure and bundle branch block. All patients underwent implantation of CRT + HBP. During the post-operative phase, we aimed to optimize HOT-CRT settings in order to achieve the greatest cardiac output assessed by complex echocardiographic measurements.

RESULTS

The study included 21 patients, mean age 71.2 (6.3) years, predominantly men (71.4%) with non-ischemic cardiomyopathy 62%. All patients had heart failure with NYHA functional class III and IV (81%). Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 27.5 (9.7%). The mean duration of the QRS complex was 148.8 ms. The effects of resynchronization pacing: HBP alone, HBP with left ventricular pacing, HBP with biventricular pacing (BiV) and BiV without HBP ​​were analyzed consecutively. HBP combined with left ventricular pacing demonstrated the best hemodynamic response.

CONCLUSION

His bundle pacing coupled with LV pacing proved to be the most advantageous pacing program setting with regard to cardiac output. Moreover, it performed better than biventricular pacing and significantly better than RV pacing.

Latest Updates in Heart Failure Imaging

Heart failure (HF), a challenging and heterogeneous syndrome, still remains a major health problem worldwide, despite all the advances in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Cardiac imaging plays a pivotal role in the classification of HF, accurate diagnosis of underlying etiology and decision-making. Integration of other imaging techniques such as cardiac magnetic resonance, nuclear imaging, and exercise imaging testing is important to characterize HF accurately. This article reviews the role of multimodality imaging to diagnose patients with HF.

Reduced myocardial strain of interventricular septum among male amateur marathon runners: a cardiac magnetic resonance study

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the long-term effect of multiple marathons on cardiac structure and function in amateur marathon runners compared with healthy controls.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study using male amateur marathon runners (n = 32) and age-matched cohort of male healthy controls (n = 12).

METHODS

A total of 32 male amateur marathon runners (age 44 ± 7 years) and 12 male healthy controls (age 42 ± 8 years) underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). The relevant parameters of cardiac structure and function were studied employing feature-tracking strain analysis.

RESULTS

Amateur marathon runners showed lower heart rates, body mass index and body surface area. The left ventricular (LV) mass index, LV end-diastolic volume index and right ventricular end-systolic volume index were significantly higher in amateur marathon runners compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, walls of interventricular septum (IVS) in amateur marathon runners were thicker than healthy controls. There was no significant difference between two groups in the global myocardial strain (MS) in LV. However, the segmental radial and circumferential strains of the LV were lower in amateur marathon runners compared to healthy controls, specifically in the 8th and 9th segments. Finally, we also found as the total running intensity increased, so did global longitudinal strain.

CONCLUSIONS

We reported higher wall thickness and lower regional radial and circumferential strain in the IVS region in amateur marathon runners, suggesting that prolonged and high-intensity exercise may cause cardiac remodeling. Further studies are needed to investigate whether this is an adaptive or maladaptive change in amateur marathon runners.

Early improvement of strain imaging parameters predicts long-term response to sacubitril/valsartan in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: An observational prospective study

BACKGROUND

Management of patients affected by heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) has deeply changed thanks to novel pharmacological therapies, such as Sacubitril/Valsartan, which assured morbidity and mortality advantages in this population. These effects may be mediated by both left atrial (LA) and ventricular reverse remodeling, although left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) recovery still represents the main parameter of treatment response.

METHODS

In this prospective, observational study, 66 patients with HFrEF and naïve from Sacubitril/Valsartan were enrolled. All patients were evaluated at baseline, at 3 months and 12 months from therapy initiation. Echocardiographic parameters, including speckle tracking analysis, LA functional and structural metrics, were collected at three timepoints. The endpoints of our study were: (1) to evaluate the effects of Sacubitril/Valsartan on echo measurements; (2) to assess the predictive role of early modifications of these parameters (expressed as ∆ 3-0 months) on long-term LVEF significant recovery, defined as >15% improvement from baseline.

RESULTS

The majority of echocardiographic parameters evaluated progressively improved during the observation period, including LVEF, ventricular volumes and LA metrics. ∆(3-0 months) of LV Global Longitudinal Strain (LVGLS) and LA Reservoir Strain (LARS) were associated with significant LVEF improvement at 12 months (p < 0.001 and p = 0.019 respectively). A cut-off of ∆(3-0 months) LVGLS of 3% and of ∆(3-0 months) LARS of 2% could predict LVEF recovery with satisfactory sensitivity and specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

LV and LA strain analysis may identify patients who adequately respond to HFrEF medical treatment and should be routinely used in the evaluation of these patients.

Segmental and global myocardial work in hypertensive patients with different left ventricular ejection fraction: what's the role of the apex played?

We investigated myocardial work in hypertension (HT) among patients with different left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) to analyze the contribution of segmental myocardial work to global myocardial work. 114 patients with HT were divided into 4 groups: HTsnEF ("supra-normal" EF, > 65%); HTnEF ("normal" EF, 60-65%); HTmEF (designed as "middle" EF, 50-60%, within an abnormal LV geometry); HTrEF (reduced EF, < 50%). Longitudinal strain (LS) and myocardial work indices were obtained by echocardiography: myocardial work index (MWI), constructive work (MCW), wasted work (MWW), myocardial work efficiency (MWE), and percentages of apical work were calculated (PApi-MWI, PApi-MCW). Global LS (GLS) and global MWE (GWE) decreased in HTmEF and HTrEF groups. Global MWI(GWI) and MCW(GCW) increased in HTsnEF and HTnEF groups, and subsequently decreased, particularly in HTrEF group (P < 0.05). GWW increased in all HT subgroups. All segmental MWI and MCW were elevated or preserved initially in HTsnEF and HTnEF groups, and subsequently decreased, obviously in basal and middle segments in HTrEF group (P < 0.05). All segmental MWW increased and MWE decreased in HTmEF and HTrEF groups (P < 0.05). PApi-MWI and PApi-MCW increased initially, and subsequently decreased in HTmEF group, and elevated significantly in HTrEF group. Correlation analysis revealed a close connection of GLS and myocardial work parameters with LVEF. Apical myocardial work increased at the early stages of hypertensive systolic dysfunction, as a compensatory mechanism. Segmental myocardial work analysis added value to explore the distribution of myocardial impairment.

Is increased myocardial triglyceride content associated with early changes in left ventricular function? A 1H-MRS and MRI strain study

Background

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity induce left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear, but myocardial triglyceride content (MTGC) could be involved.

Objectives

This study aimed to determine which clinical and biological factors are associated with increased MTGC and to establish whether MTGC is associated with early changes in LV function.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted using five previous prospective cohorts, leading to 338 subjects studied, including 208 well-phenotyped healthy volunteers and 130 subjects living with T2D and/or obesity. All the subjects underwent proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy and feature tracking cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to measure myocardial strain.

Results

MTGC content increased with age, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, T2D, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, but the only independent correlate found in multivariate analysis was BMI (p=0.01; R²=0.20). MTGC was correlated to LV diastolic dysfunction, notably with the global peak early diastolic circumferential strain rate (r=-0.17, p=0.003), the global peak late diastolic circumferential strain rate (r=0.40, p<0.0001) and global peak late diastolic longitudinal strain rate (r=0.24, p<0.0001). MTGC was also correlated to systolic dysfunction via end-systolic volume index (r=-0.34, p<0.0001) and stroke volume index (r=-0.31, p<0.0001), but not with longitudinal strain (r=0.009, p=0.88). Interestingly, the associations between MTGC and strain measures did not persist in multivariate analysis. Furthermore, MTGC was independently associated with LV end-systolic volume index (p=0.01, R²=0.29), LV end-diastolic volume index (p=0.04, R²=0.46), and LV mass (p=0.002, R²=0.58).

Conclusions

Predicting MTGC remains a challenge in routine clinical practice, as only BMI independently correlates with increased MTGC. MTGC may play a role in LV dysfunction but does not appear to be involved in the development of subclinical strain abnormalities.

Targeting Left Ventricular Mechanics In Patients With Pheochromocytoma/Paraganglioma: An Updated Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies targeting left ventricular (LV) systolic function by measuring LV ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) either failed to reveal any impairment of this parameter or found a super-normal systolic function compared to essential hypertensives or normotensive controls. To provide an updated piece of information on LV systolic dysfunction in the PPGL setting, we performed a meta-analysis of speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) studies investigating LV mechanics via global longitudinal strain (GLS), a more sensitive index of LV systolic function than LVEF.

METHODS

A computerized search was performed using PubMed, OVID, EMBASE, and Cochrane library databases from inception until September 30, 2022. Full articles reporting data on LV GLS and LVEF in patients with PPGL and controls were considered suitable.

RESULTS

A total of 252 patients with PPGL and 187 controls were included in 6 studies. LV GLS was worse in the pooled PPGL group than in the control group (-17.3 ± 1.2 vs. -20.0 ± 0.6) with a standard means difference (SMD) of 1.13 ± 0.36 confidence interval (CI: 0.43-1.84, P = 0.002), whereas this was not the case for LVEF (67.3 ± 1.9 and 66.4 ± 1.6%, respectively), SMD: 0.12 ± 0.03, (CI: -0.41/0.65, P = 0.66). A meta-regression analysis in PPGL patients showed an inverse relationship between adrenergic activity and GLS (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that early changes in LV systolic function not detectable by conventional echocardiography in the PPGL setting can be revealed by STE; therefore, STE implementation in the workup of patients with PPGL may improve the detection of subclinical systolic dysfunction.

Reduced functional capacity is associated with the proportion of impaired myocardial deformation assessed in heart failure patients by CMR

Aims

Heart failure (HF) does not only reduce the life expectancy in patients, but their life is also often limited by HF symptoms leading to a reduced quality of life (QoL) and a diminished exercise capacity. Novel parameters in cardiac imaging, including both global and regional myocardial strain imaging, promise to contribute to better patient characterization and ultimately to better patient management. However, many of these methods are not part of clinical routine yet, their associations with clinical parameters have been poorly studied. An imaging parameters that also indicate the clinical symptom burden of HF patients would make cardiac imaging more robust toward incomplete clinical information and support the clinical decision process.

Methods and results

This prospective study conducted at two centers in Germany between 2017 and 2018 enrolled stable outpatient subjects with HF [n = 56, including HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), HF with mid-range ejection fraction (HFmrEF), and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF)] and a control cohort (n = 19). Parameters assessed included measures for external myocardial function, for example, cardiac index and myocardial deformation measurements by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging, left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS), the global circumferential strain (GCS), and the regional distribution of segment deformation within the LV myocardium, as well as basic phenotypical characteristics including the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) and the 6-minute walk test (6MWT). If less than 80% of the LV segments are preserved in their deformation capacity the functional capacity by 6MWT (6 minutes walking distance: MyoHealth ≥ 80%: 579.8 ± 177.6 m; MyoHealth 60-<80%: 401.3 ± 121.7 m; MyoHealth 40-<60%: 456.4 ± 68.9 m; MyoHealth < 40%: 397.6 ± 125.9 m, overall p-value: 0.03) as well as the symptom burden are significantly impaired (NYHA class: MyoHealth ≥ 80%: 0.6 ± 1.1 m; MyoHealth 60-<80%: 1.7 ± 1.2 m; MyoHealth 40-<60%: 1.8 ± 0.7 m; MyoHealth < 40%: 2.4 ± 0.5 m; overall p-value < 0.01). Differences were also observed in the perceived exertion assessed by on the Borg scale (MyoHealth ≥ 80%: 8.2 ± 2.3 m; MyoHealth 60-<80%: 10.4 ± 3.2 m; MyoHealth 40-<60%: 9.8 ± 2.1 m; MyoHealth < 40%: 11.0 ± 2.9 m; overall p-value: 0.20) as well as quality of life measures (MLHFQ; MyoHealth ≥ 80%: 7.5 ± 12.4 m; MyoHealth 60-<80%: 23.4 ± 23.4 m; MyoHealth 40-<60%: 20.5 ± 21.2 m; MyoHealth < 40%: 27.4 ± 24.4 m; overall p-value: 0.15)-while these differences were not significant.

Conclusion

The share of LV segments with preserved myocardial contraction promises to discriminate between symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects based on the imaging findings, even when the LV ejection fraction is preserved. This finding is promising to make imaging studies more robust toward incomplete clinical information.

The Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Strain Analysis in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

Background

Strain analysis of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is critical for the diagnosis and prognosis of heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Our study aimed to identify the diagnostic and prognostic value of strain analysis revealed by CMR in HFpEF.

Methods

Participants in HFpEF and control were recruited according to the guideline. Baseline information, clinical parameters, blood samples were collected, and echocardiography and CMR examination were performed. Various parameters, including global longitudinal strain, global circumferential strain (GCS) and global radial strain in left ventricle (LV), right ventricle (RV), and left atrium, were measured from CMR. Receiver operator curve (ROC) was established to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of strains in HFpEF.

Results

Seven strains, with the exception of RVGCS, were employed to generate ROC curves after t-test. All strains had significant diagnostic value for HFpEF. The area under curve (AUC) of LV strains was greater than 0.7 and the AUC of the combined analysis of LV strains was 0.858 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.798-0.919, sensitivity: 0.713, specificity: 0.875, P < 0.001), indicating that they had a higher diagnostic value than individual LV strains. However, individual strains had no predictive value in identifying end-point events in HFpEF, the AUC of coanalysis of LV strains was 0.722 (95% CI: 0.573-0.872, sensitivity: 0.500, specificity: 0.959, P = 0.004), indicating its prognostic relevance.

Conclusion

Individual strain analysis in CMR may be useful for diagnosing HFpEF, the combination of LV strain analysis had the highest diagnostic value. Moreover, the prognostic value of individual strain analysis in predicting HFpEF outcome was not satisfactory while the combined usage of LV strain analysis was prognostically valuable in HFpEF outcome prediction.

Significance of standard and speckle-tracking echocardiography for early diagnosis of asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction in type 2 diabetes

Aim. To study the relationship between echocardiographic parameters of left ventricular (LV) function and carbohydrate metabolism indicators, as well as to evaluate value of speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) in the early diagnosis of subclinical LV dysfunction in type 2 diabetes (T2D) in individuals without clinical manifestations of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Material and methods. The study included 120 people of both sexes aged 45 to 75 years. Patients were divided into three following groups: 1 — with T2D (n=53), 2 — with prediabetes (n=20), 3 — control, without carbohydrate metabolism disorders (n=47). All participants underwent transthoracic two-dimensional echocardiography with an assessment of standard systolic and diastolic parameters, as well as quantitative STE indicators. In addition, all participants underwent laboratory diagnostics of carbohydrate metabolism disorders, which included the determination of blood fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin, and C-peptide, as well as insulin resistance index estimation.

Results. In patients with T2D, in comparison with the control group, diastolic function parameters were significantly different as follows: a lower value of early to late diastolic transmitral flow velocity (E/A) ratio, the ratio of early transmitral flow velocity to early diastolic mitral annulus velocity (E/e'), mitral annular velocity (e') and higher isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT), as well as early diastolic flow deceleration time (DT). According to multivariate analysis, not only T2D, but also prediabetes was an independent predictor of diastolic dysfunction. The Simpson's LV ejection fraction was preserved in all study participants. In patients with T2D, in comparison with the control, according to STE, a decrease in global longitudinal strain (GLS), an increase in apical rotation, and also LV twist were revealed. In a multivariate regression analysis, the HbA1c level had an inverse relationship with GLS and was an independent predictor of its decrease, and the T2D duration was a significant predictor of twisting changes, apical and basal rotation. At the same time, GLS and LV twist had a high sensitivity in determining the decrease in E/A, e'/a', e', as well as the increase in IVRT.

Conclusion. In patients with T2D without CVD manifestations, sub-clinical signs of diastolic dysfunction were revealed, such as delayed LV relaxation; systolic dysfunction with preserved ejection fraction was manifested by a decrease in GLS, as well as an increase in apical rotation and LV twisting, identified by STE. The severity of asymptomatic LV systolic-diastolic dysfunction was associated with the severity of glucose metabolism disorders and T2D duration.

Left Atrial Mechanics and Diastolic Function Among People Living With Human Immunodeficiency Virus (from the Veterans Aging Cohort Study)

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is associated with subclinical cardiomyopathy, diastolic dysfunction, and increased risk of cardiovascular death. However, the relationship between left atrial (LA) mechanics and left ventricular (LV) diastolic function has not been evaluated in people living with HIV (PLWH) relative to HIV-uninfected (HIV-) controls. This is a multicenter, cross-sectional cohort analysis using the HIV Cardiovascular Disease substudy of the Veterans Aging Cohort Study database, which aimed to examine a cohort of PLWH and HIV- veterans without known cardiovascular disease. A total of 277 subjects (180 PLWH, 97 HIV-) with echocardiograms were identified. LV and LA phasic strain were derived and diastolic function was evaluated. Relationship between LA strain, LV strain, and the degree of diastolic dysfunction were assessed using analysis of variance and ordinal logistic regression with propensity weighting. In the PLWH cohort, 91.7% were on antiretroviral therapy and 86.1% had HIV viral loads <500 copies/ml. The mean (± SD) duration of infection was 9.7 ± 4.9 years. Relative to HIV- veterans, PLWH did not differ in LA mechanics and proportion of diastolic dysfunction (p = 0.31). Using logistic regression with propensity weighting, we found no association between HIV status and degree of diastolic dysfunction. In both cohorts, LA reservoir strain and LA conduit strain were inversely and independently associated with the degree of diastolic dysfunction. Compared with HIV- veterans, PLWH who are primarily virally suppressed and antiretroviral-treated did not differ in LA strain or LV diastolic dysfunction. If confirmed in other cohorts, HIV viral suppression may curtail adverse alterations in cardiac structure and function.

The Role of Strain by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Predicting the Prognosis of Patients with Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is characterized by thrombotic obstruction of the pulmonary arteries, and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is a major cause of death. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is the gold standard for assessing heart wall deformation; therefore, we aimed to determine the prognostic value of CMR strain in patients with CTEPH. Strain derived by CMR was measured at the time of diagnosis in 45 patients with CTEPH, and the relationship between RV strain and prognosis was determined through follow-up. The value of RV strain in the prognostic model was compared with that of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) risk stratification. The RV global peak longitudinal strain (GLS) and global peak circumferential strain (GCS) in CTEPH patients were lower than the normal references of RV strain in the control group. GLS and longitudinal strain in the basal segment were independent risk factors for adverse events (P < .050). Adding CMR parameters to PAH risk stratification improved its predictive power in patients with CTEPH. GLS and GCS scores were impaired in patients with chronic RV overload. RV strain derived by CMR imaging is a promising noninvasive tool for the follow-up of patients with CTEPH.

Current and novel echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular systolic function in aortic stenosis-A comprehensive review

Aortic stenosis (AS) is a complex and progressive condition that can significantly reduce the quality of life and increase the incidence of premature mortality. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the gold standard imaging modality for the assessment of AS severity. While left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) derived from TTE is a very well-understood parameter, limitations such as high inter and intra-observer variability, insensitivity to sub-clinical dysfunction, and influence of loading conditions make LVEF a complicated and unreliable parameter. Myocardial deformation imaging has been identified as a promising parameter for identifying subclinical left ventricular dysfunction, however, this parameter is still afterload dependent. Myocardial Work is a promising novel assessment technique that accounts for afterload by combining the use of myocardial deformation imaging and non-invasive blood pressure to provide a more comprehensive assessment of mechanics beyond LVEF. This review evaluates the evidence for various echocardiographic assessment parameters used to quantify left ventricular function including myocardial work in patients with AS.

Storax Attenuates Cardiac Fibrosis following Acute Myocardial Infarction in Rats via Suppression of AT1R-Ankrd1-P53 Signaling Pathway

Myocardial fibrosis following acute myocardial infarction (AMI) seriously affects the prognosis and survival rate of patients. This study explores the role and regulation mechanism of storax, a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of cardiovascular diseases, on myocardial fibrosis and cardiac function. The AMI rat model was established by subcutaneous injection of Isoproterenol hydrochloride (ISO). Storax (0.1, 0.2, 0.4 g/kg) was administered by gavage once/d for 7 days. Electrocardiogram, echocardiography, hemodynamic and cardiac enzyme in AMI rats were measured. HE, Masson, immunofluorescence and TUNEL staining were used to observe the degree of pathological damage, fibrosis and cardiomyocyte apoptosis in myocardial tissue, respectively. Expression of AT1R, CARP and their downstream related apoptotic proteins were detected by WB. The results demonstrated that storax could significantly improve cardiac electrophysiology and function, decrease serum cardiac enzyme activity, reduce type I and III collagen contents to improve fibrosis and alleviate myocardial pathological damage and cardiomyocyte apoptosis. It also found that storax can significantly down-regulate expression of AT1R, Ankrd1, P53, P-p53 (ser 15), Bax and cleaved Caspase-3 and up-regulate expression of Mdm2 and Bcl-2. Taken together, these findings indicated that storax effectively protected cardiomyocytes against myocardial fibrosis and cardiac dysfunction by inhibiting the AT1R-Ankrd1-P53 signaling pathway.

First-pass perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance parameters as surrogate markers for left ventricular diastolic dysfunction: a validation against cardiac catheterization

OBJECTIVES

The non-invasive assessment of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction remains a challenge. The role of first-pass perfusion cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) parameters in quantitative hemodynamic analyses has been reported. We therefore aimed to validate the diagnostic ability and accuracy of such parameters against cardiac catheterization for LV diastolic dysfunction in patients with left heart disease (LHD).

METHODS

We retrospectively enrolled 77 LHD patients who underwent CMR imaging and cardiac catheterization. LV diastolic dysfunction was defined as pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) or LV end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) > 12 mmHg on catheterization. On first-pass perfusion CMR imaging, pulmonary transit time (PTT) was measured as the time for blood to pass from the left ventricle to the right ventricle (RV) through the pulmonary vasculature. Pulmonary transit beat (PTB) was the number of cardiac cycles within the interval, and pulmonary blood volume indexed to body surface area (PBVi) was the product of PTB and RV stroke volume index (RVSVi).

RESULTS

Of the 77 LHD patients, 53 (68.83%) were found to have LV diastolic dysfunction, and showed significantly higher PTTc, PTB, and PBVi (p < 0.05) compared with those without. In multivariate analyses, only PTTc and PTB were identified as independent predictors of LV diastolic dysfunction (p < 0.05). With an optimal cutoff of 11.9 s, PTTc yielded the best diagnostic performance for LV diastolic dysfunction (area under the curve = 0.83, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

PTTc may represent a non-invasive quantitative surrogate marker for the detection and assessment of diastolic dysfunction in LHD patients.

KEY POINTS

• PTTc yielded the best diagnostic accuracy for diastolic dysfunction, with an optimal cutoff of 11.9 s, and a specificity of 100%. • PTTc and PTB were found to be independent predictors of LV diastolic dysfunction across different multivariate models with high reproducibility. • PTTc is a promising non-invasive surrogate marker for the detection and assessment of diastolic dysfunction in LHD patients.

Do the Current Guidelines for Heart Failure Diagnosis and Treatment Fit with Clinical Complexity?

Heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome defined by specific symptoms and signs due to structural and/or functional heart abnormalities, which lead to inadequate cardiac output and/or increased intraventricular filling pressure. Importantly, HF becomes progressively a multisystemic disease. However, in August 2021, the European Society of Cardiology published the new Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic HF, according to which the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) continues to represent the pivotal parameter for HF patients’ evaluation, risk stratification and therapeutic management despite its limitations are well known. Indeed, HF has a complex pathophysiology because it first involves the heart, progressively becoming a multisystemic disease, leading to multiorgan failure and death. In these terms, HF is comparable to cancer. As for cancer, surviving, morbidity and hospitalisation are related not only to the primary neoplastic mass but mainly to the metastatic involvement. In HF, multiorgan involvement has a great impact on prognosis, and multiorgan protective therapies are equally important as conventional cardioprotective therapies. In the light of these considerations, a revision of the HF concept is needed, starting from its definition up to its therapy, to overcome the old and simplistic HF perspective.

Pre-heart failure at 2D- and 3D-speckle tracking echocardiography: A comprehensive review

Chronic heart failure (CHF) has different stages and includes pre-HF (PHF), a state of high risk of developing myocardial dysfunction and advanced CHF. Some major behavioral risk factors of PHF might predispose to biological risk factors such as obesity, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, hypertension, myocardial infarction, and cardiomyopathy. These risk factors damage the myocytes leading to fibrosis, apoptosis, cardiac hypertrophy, along with alterations in cardiomyocyte' size and shape. A condition of physiological subcellular remodeling resulting into a pathological state might be developed, conducting to PHF. Both PHF and heart failure (HF) are associated with the activation of phospholipases and protease, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and development of intra-cellular free Ca2+  [Ca2+ ]i overloading to an elevation in diastolic [Ca2+ ]i . Simultaneously, cardiac gene expression is activated leading to further molecular, structural and biochemical changes of the myocardium. The sub-cellular remodeling may be intimately involved in the transition of cardiac hypertrophy to heart failure. 2D- and 3D-speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) have been used to quantify regional alterations of longitudinal strain and area strain, through their polar projection, which permits a further assessment of both sites and degrees of myocardial damage. The examination of strain can identify sub-clinical cardiac dysfunction or cardiomyocyte remodeling. During remodeling of the myocardium cardiac strain is attenuated, therefore it is an indicator of disease assessment.

How to standardize measurement of global longitudinal strain

Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a robust and sensitive marker of left-ventricular systolic function, reflecting longitudinal shortening of the ventricle. A growing body of evidence indicates its superiority in identifying subclinical, early alterations in cardiac function compared to traditional markers, such as ejection fraction. Therefore, there is a growing demand to assess GLS in clinical settings, but limited availability on how to obtain GLS accurately and appropriately in the current literature. This review summarizes key aspects of GLS measurement, including image acquisition, post-processing, and training/experience needed to facilitate the clinical implication with standardization.

Current and future treatment approaches for Barth syndrome

Barth Syndrome is an X-linked disorder of mitochondrial cardiolipin metabolism caused by pathogenic variants in TAFAZZIN with pleiotropic effects including cardiomyopathy, neutropenia, growth delay, and skeletal myopathy. Management requires a multidisciplinary approach to the organ-specific manifestations including specialists from cardiology, hematology, nutrition, physical therapy, genetics, and metabolism. Currently, treatment is centered on management of specific clinical features, and is not targeted toward remediating the underlying biochemical defect. However, two clinical trials have been recently undertaken which target the mitochondrial pathology of this disease: a study to examine the effects of elamipretide, a cardiolipin targeted agent, and a study to examine the effects of bezafibrate, a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonist. Treatments to directly target the defective TAFAZZIN pathway are under development, including enzyme and gene therapies.

Contribution of Global and Regional Longitudinal Strain for Clinical Assessment of HFpEF in Coronary and Hypertensive Patients

Background: Contribution of global and regional longitudinal strain (GLS) for clinical assessment of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is not well established. We sought to evaluate subclinical left ventricular dysfunction secondary to coronary artery disease (CAD) in HFpEF patients compared with hypertensive patients and age-matched healthy subjects. Material and methods: This was a retrospective study that included 148 patients (group 1 = 62 patients with HFpEF, group 2 = 46 hypertensive patients, and group 3 = 40 age-matched control subjects). Peak systolic segmental, regional (basal, mid, and apical), and global longitudinal strain were assessed for each study group using two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2D-STE). Results: GLS values presented statistically significant differences between the three groups (p < 0.001); markedly increased values (more negative) were observed in the control group (−20.2 ± 1.4%) compared with HTN group values (−18.4 ± 3.0%, p = 0.031) and with HFpEF group values (−17.6 ± 2.3%, p < 0.001). The correlation between GLS values and HTN stages was significant, direct, and average (Spearman coefficient rho = 0.423, p < 0.001). GLS had the greatest ability to detect patients with HFpEF when HFpEF + CAD + HTN diastolic dysfunction (n = 30) + CON diastolic dysfunction (n = 2) from HFpEF + CAD + HTN + CON was analyzed. (optimal GLS limit of −19.35%, area under curve = 0.833, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Global longitudinal strain can be used for clinical assessment in differentiating coronary and hypertensive patients at higher risk for development of systolic dysfunction.

Systolic dysfunction in patients with methamphetamine use and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate for occult systolic dysfunction and the effect of methamphetamine cessation among patients with methamphetamine use (MU) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of patients with HFpEF with serial echocardiograms was stratified by MU and evaluated using myocardial strain analysis on echocardiograms at baseline and 1 year to measure global longitudinal strain (GLS). Contemporaneous controls with an ICD diagnosis of HF within 3 days of an MU case were chosen.

RESULTS

Patients with MU (n = 31) were younger (49 ± 10 vs 59 ± 16 years, p < 0.01) and more frequently male (55% vs 26%, p = 0.04) than controls (n = 23). There was no baseline difference in ejection fraction (EF) (median 66% [IQR 58,71%] vs 62% [56,69%], p = 0.33) or GLS (-13.0% [-16.3,-10.9%] vs -14.8% [-16.0,-11.3%], p = 0.40). At one-year follow-up, MU cessation (n = 15) was associated with improvement in GLS (absolute change -4.4% [-6.5,-1.7%], p < 0.01), while no absolute change was observed with continued MU (n = 16) (0.74% [-1.2,-2.8%], p = 0.22) or controls without MU (-0.6% [-2.1,2.8%], p = 0.78). Of those with abnormal baseline GLS, normalization was observed in 46% with MU cessation, none with continued MU, and 5% of controls (p < 0.001). Among MU patients, improvement in GLS was associated with decreased HF admissions per year [HR 0.74 per 1% change in GLS, 95% CI 0.55,0.98, p = 0.04].

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with MU and HFpEF may have occult systolic dysfunction as demonstrated by abnormal GLS, and MU cessation at 1 year is associated with improvement in GLS and a reduction in risk of HF admissions.

Association Between Heart Failure With Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction and Impaired Left Atrial Phasic Function in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Evaluation by Cardiac MRI Feature Tracking

BACKGROUND

The majority of heart failure (HF) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) manifests as a phenotype with preserved left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction; however, the exact contribution of left atrial (LA) phasic function to HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) in HCM remains unresolved.

PURPOSE

To define the association between LA function and HFpEF in HCM patients using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) feature tracking.

STUDY TYPE

Retrospective.

POPULATION

One hundred and fifty-four HCM patients (HFpEF vs. non-HF: 55 [34 females] vs. 99 [43 females]).

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

3.0 T/balanced steady-state free precession.

ASSESSMENT

LA reservoir function (reservoir strain [ε_s ], total ejection fraction [EF]), conduit function (conduit strain [ε_e ], passive EF), booster-pump function (booster strain [ε_a ] and active EF), LA volume index, and LV global longitudinal strain (LV GLS) were evaluated in HCM patients.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Chi-square test, Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, multivariate linear regression, logistic regression, and net reclassification analysis were used. Two-sided P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found in LV GLS between the non-HF and HFpEF group (-10.67 ± 3.14% vs. -10.14 ± 4.01%, P = 0.397), whereas the HFpEF group had more severely impaired LA phasic strain (ε_s : 27.40 [22.60, 35.80] vs. 18.15 [11.98, 25.90]; ε_e : 13.80 [9.20, 18.90] vs. 7.95 [4.30, 14.35]; ε_a : 13.50 [9.90, 17.10] vs. 7.90 [5.40, 14.15]). LA total EF (37.91 [29.54, 47.94] vs. 47.49 [39.18, 55.01]), passive EF (14.70 [7.41, 21.49] vs. 18.07 [9.32, 24.78]), and active EF (27.19 [17.79, 36.60] vs. 36.64 [26.63, 42.71]) were all significantly decreased in HFpEF patients compared with non-HF patients. LA reservoir (β = 0.90 [0.85, 0.96]), conduit (β = 0.93 [0.87, 0.99]), and booster (β = 0.86 [0.78, 0.95]) strain were independently associated with HFpEF in HCM patients. The model including reservoir strain (Net Reclassification Index [NRI]: 0.260) or booster strain (NRI: 0.325) improved the reclassification of HFpEF based on LV GLS and minimum left atrial volume index (LAVI_min ).

DATA CONCLUSION

LA phasic function was severely impaired in HCM patients with HFpEF, whereas LV function was not further impaired compared with non-HF patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 3.

Hemodynamic Effects of Permanent His Bundle Pacing Compared to Right Ventricular Pacing Assessed by Two-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography

We compared the effects of right ventricular (RVP; n = 26) and His bundle (HBP; n = 24) pacing in patients with atrioventricular conduction disorders and preserved LVEF. Postoperatively (1D), and after six months (6M), the patients underwent global longitudinal strain (GLS) and peak systolic dispersion (PSD) evaluation with 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography, assessment of left atrial volume index (LAVI) and QRS duration (QRSd), and sensing/pacing parameter testing. The RVP threshold was lower than the HBP threshold at 1D (0.65 ± 0.13 vs. 1.05 ± 0.20 V, p < 0.001), and then it remained stable, while the HBP threshold increased at 6M (1.05 ± 0.20 vs. 1.31 ± 0.30 V, p < 0.001). The RVP R-wave was higher than the HBP R-wave at 1D (11.52 ± 2.99 vs. 4.82 ± 1.41 mV, p < 0.001). The RVP R-wave also remained stable, while the HBP R-wave decreased at 6M (4.82 ± 1.41 vs. 4.50 ± 1.09 mV, p < 0.02). RVP QRSd was longer than HBP QRSd at 6M (145.0 ± 11.1 vs. 112.3 ± 9.3 ms, p < 0.001). The absolute value of RVP GLS decreased at 6M (16.32 ± 2.57 vs. 14.03 ± 3.78%, p < 0.001), and HBP GLS remained stable. Simultaneously, RVP PSD increased (72.53 ± 24.15 vs. 88.33 ± 30.51 ms, p < 0.001) and HBP PSD decreased (96.28 ± 33.99 vs. 84.95 ± 28.98 ms, p < 0.001) after 6 months. RVP LAVI increased (26.73 ± 5.7 vs. 28.40 ± 6.4 mL/m², p < 0.05), while HBP LAVI decreased at 6M (30.03 ± 7.8 vs. 28.73 ± 8.7 mL/m², p < 0.01). These results confirm that HBP does not disrupt ventricular synchrony and provides advantages over RVP.

Preoperative left ventricular longitudinal strain predicts outcome of septal myectomy for obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the characteristics of longitudinal strain and its effect on outcomes in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) who underwent septal myectomy.

METHODS

We reviewed patients with obstructive HCM who underwent septal myectomy at our clinic from 2007 to 2016. Data of those who had strain echocardiography within 6 months before isolated myectomy were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median age of the 857 patients studied was 55 (interquartile range [IQR], 44-63) years, and 451 (52.6%) were male. Left ventricular ejection fraction was 71% (IQR, 67%-74%), and the resting peak outflow tract gradient was 58 (IQR, 27-85) mm Hg. The median global longitudinal strain (GLS) was -14.6% (IQR, -12.0% to -17.3%). Regional longitudinal strain was nonuniform as reflected by more normal values in apical segments and more abnormal in basal segments. Moreover, GLS correlated poorly with ejection fraction and outflow tract gradient. In 64 patients who had postoperative strain echocardiography, GLS was comparable before and after septal myectomy, but regional strain was more uniform after myectomy. Over a follow-up of 8.3 (IQR, 6.5-10.3) years, when patients were equally stratified according to GLS (cutoff, -14.64%), the group with worse GLS had significantly poorer survival compared with the better GLS group (P = .002). Left ventricular ejection fraction had no association with survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Left ventricular longitudinal strain is nonuniform and might be significantly reduced in patients with obstructive HCM. Septal myectomy does not impair GLS but is associated with more uniform regional strains. Most importantly, reduced GLS preoperatively is strongly and independently associated with increased all-cause mortality after septal myectomy for obstructive HCM.

Left ventricular longitudinal strain variations assessed by speckle-tracking echocardiography after a passive leg raising maneuver in patients with acute circulatory failure to predict fluid responsiveness: A prospective, observational study

Background

An association was reported between the left ventricular longitudinal strain (LV-LS) and preload. LV-LS reflects the left cardiac function curve as it is the ratio of shortening over diastolic dimension. The aim of this study was to determine the sensitivity and specificity of LV-LS variations after a passive leg raising (PLR) maneuver to predict fluid responsiveness in intensive care unit (ICU) patients with acute circulatory failure (ACF).

Methods

Patients with ACF were prospectively included. Preload-dependency was defined as a velocity time integral (VTI) variation greater than 10% between baseline (T0) and PLR (T1), distinguishing the preload-dependent (PLD+) group and the preload-independent (PLD-) group. A 7-cycles, 4-chamber echocardiography loop was registered at T0 and T1, and strain analysis was performed off-line by a blind clinician. A general linear model for repeated measures was used to compare the LV-LS variation (T0 to T1) between the two groups.

Results

From June 2018 to August 2019, 60 patients (PLD+ = 33, PLD- = 27) were consecutively enrolled. The VTI variations after PLR were +21% (±8) in the PLD+ group and -1% (±7) in the PLD- group (p<0.01). Mean baseline LV-LS was -11.3% (±4.2) in the PLD+ group and -13.0% (±4.2) in the PLD- group (p = 0.12). LV-LS increased in the whole population after PLR +16.0% (±4.0) (p = 0.04). The LV-LS variations after PLR were +19.0% (±31) (p = 0.05) in the PLD+ group and +11.0% (±38) (p = 0.25) in the PLD- group, with no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.08). The area under the curve for the LV-LS variations between T0 and T1 was 0.63 [0.48–0.77].

Conclusion

Our study confirms that LV-LS is load-dependent; however, the variations in LV-LS after PLR is not a discriminating criterion to predict fluid responsiveness of ICU patients with ACF in this cohort.

Advanced Heart Failure in Special Population-Pediatric Age

Heart failure (HF) is an important health care issue in children because of its considerable morbidity and mortality. Advanced HF encompasses patients who remained symptomatic despite optimal medical treatment and includes patients who require special management, such as continuous inotropic therapy, mechanical circulatory support, or heart transplantation (HT). HT is the gold standard for children with advanced HF; nonetheless, the number of suitable donors has not increased for decades, leading to prolonged waitlist times and increased mortality rates. Therefore, the role of pediatric mechanic circulatory support has been assessed as an alternative treatment in patients in whom heart transplant could not be performed. The authors discuss the epidemiology, causes, pathophysiology, clinical manifestation, medical treatment, device therapy, and HT in pediatric HF, and a particular emphasis was posed on patients with advanced HF.