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Zeng W, Wang J, Weng C, Peng W, Wang T, Yuan D, Huang B, Zhao J, Xia C, Li Z, Guo Y. Assessment of aortic hemodynamics in patients with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm using four-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging: a cross-sectional study. Quant Imaging Med Surg 2024; 14:2800-2815. [PMID: 38617138 PMCID: PMC11007523 DOI: 10.21037/qims-23-1321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Background Thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) are rare but complicated aortic pathologies that can result in high morbidity and mortality. The whole-aorta hemodynamic characteristics of TAAA survivors remains unknown. This study sought to obtain a comprehensive view of flow hemodynamics of the whole aorta in patients with TAAA using four-dimensional flow (4D flow) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods This study included patients who had experienced TAAA or abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and age- and sex-matched volunteers who had attended China Hospital from December 2021 to December 2022 in West. Patients with unstable ruptured aneurysm or other cardiovascular diseases were excluded. 4D-flow MRI that covered the whole aorta was acquired. Both planar parameters [(regurgitation fraction (RF), peak systolic velocity (Vmax), overall wall shear stress (WSS)] and segmental parameters [pulse wave velocity (PWV) and viscous energy loss (VEL)] were generated during postprocessing. The Student's t-test or Mann-Whitney test was used to compare flow dynamics among the three groups. Results A total of 11 patients with TAAA (mean age 53.2±11.9 years; 10 males), 19 patients with AAA (mean age 58.0±11.7 years; 16 males), and 21 controls (mean age 55.4±15.0 years; 19 males) were analyzed. The patients with TAAA demonstrated a significantly higher RF and lower Vmax in the aortic arch compared to healthy controls. The whole length of the aorta in patients with TAAA was characterized by lower WSS, predominantly in the planes of pulmonary artery bifurcation and the middle infrarenal planes (all P values <0.001). As for segmental hemodynamics, compared to controls, patients with TAAA had a significantly higher PWV in the thoracic aorta (TAAA: median 11.41 m/s, IQR 9.56-14.32 m/s; control: median 7.21 m/s, IQR 5.57-7.79 m/s; P<0.001) as did those with AAA (AAA: median 8.75 m/s, IQR 7.35-10.75 m/s; control: median 7.21 m/s, IQR 5.57-7.79 m/s; P=0.024). Moreover, a greater VEL was observed in the whole aorta and abdominal aorta in patients with TAAA. Conclusions Patients with TAAA exhibited a stiffer aortic wall with a lower WSS and a greater VEL for the whole aorta, which was accompanied by a higher RF and lower peak velocity in the dilated portion of the aorta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Zeng
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiarong Wang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chengxin Weng
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wanlin Peng
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Tiehao Wang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ding Yuan
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jichun Zhao
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chunchao Xia
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhenlin Li
- Department of Radiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yingkun Guo
- Department of Radiology, Development and Related Diseases of Women and Children Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Ninni S, Algalarrondo V, Brette F, Lemesle G, Fauconnier J. Left atrial cardiomyopathy: Pathophysiological insights, assessment methods and clinical implications. Arch Cardiovasc Dis 2024; 117:283-296. [PMID: 38490844 DOI: 10.1016/j.acvd.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Atrial cardiomyopathy is defined as any complex of structural, architectural, contractile or electrophysiological changes affecting atria, with the potential to produce clinically relevant manifestations. Most of our knowledge about the mechanistic aspects of atrial cardiomyopathy is derived from studies investigating animal models of atrial fibrillation and atrial tissue samples obtained from individuals who have a history of atrial fibrillation. Several noninvasive tools have been reported to characterize atrial cardiomyopathy in patients, which may be relevant for predicting the risk of incident atrial fibrillation and its related outcomes, such as stroke. Here, we provide an overview of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in atrial cardiomyopathy, and discuss the complex interplay of these mechanisms, including aging, left atrial pressure overload, metabolic disorders and genetic factors. We discuss clinical tools currently available to characterize atrial cardiomyopathy, including electrocardiograms, cardiac imaging and serum biomarkers. Finally, we discuss the clinical impact of atrial cardiomyopathy, and its potential role for predicting atrial fibrillation, stroke, heart failure and dementia. Overall, this review aims to highlight the critical need for a clinically relevant definition of atrial cardiomyopathy to improve treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Ninni
- CHU de Lille, Université de Lille, 59000 Lille, France.
| | - Vincent Algalarrondo
- Department of Cardiology, Bichat University Hospital, AP-HP, 75018 Paris, France
| | - Fabien Brette
- PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, INSERM, CNRS, 34093 Montpellier, France
| | | | - Jérémy Fauconnier
- PhyMedExp, University of Montpellier, INSERM, CNRS, 34093 Montpellier, France
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Meskin M, Starkey PA, Kaspersen AE, Ringgaard S, Sand SG, Nygaard JV, Jensen JA, Traberg MS, Johansen P. Investigating the importance of left atrial compliance on fluid dynamics in a novel mock circulatory loop. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1864. [PMID: 38253772 PMCID: PMC10803730 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52327-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The left atrium (LA) hemodynamic indices hold prognostic value in various cardiac diseases and disorders. To understand the mechanisms of these conditions and to assess the performance of cardiac devices and interventions, in vitro models can be used to replicate the complex physiological interplay between the pulmonary veins, LA, and left ventricle. In this study, a comprehensive and adaptable in vitro model was created. The model includes a flexible LA made from silicone and allows distinct control over the systolic and diastolic functions of both the LA and left ventricle. The LA was mechanically matched with porcine LAs through expansion tests. Fluid dynamic measures were validated against the literature and pulmonary venous flows recorded on five healthy individuals using magnetic resonance flow imaging. Furthermore, the fluid dynamic measures were also used to construct LA pressure-volume loops. The in vitro pressure and flow recordings expressed a high resemblance to physiological waveforms. By decreasing the compliance of the LA, the model behaved realistically, elevating the a- and v-wave peaks of the LA pressure from 12 to 19 mmHg and 22 to 26 mmHg, respectively, while reducing the S/D ratio of the pulmonary venous flowrate from 1.5 to 0.3. This model provides a realistic platform and framework for developing and evaluating left heart procedures and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Meskin
- Cardiovascular Biomechanics Group, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
- Cardiovascular Experimental Laboratory, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aarhus University, Finlandsgade 22, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Philip Alexander Starkey
- Cardiovascular Experimental Laboratory, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aarhus University, Finlandsgade 22, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | | | | | - Signe Gram Sand
- Cardiovascular Experimental Laboratory, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aarhus University, Finlandsgade 22, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Jens Vinge Nygaard
- Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Department of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Arendt Jensen
- Center for Fast Ultrasound Imaging, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Marie Sand Traberg
- Cardiovascular Biomechanics Group, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
- Center for Fast Ultrasound Imaging, Department of Health Technology, Technical University of Denmark, Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Peter Johansen
- Cardiovascular Experimental Laboratory, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Aarhus University, Finlandsgade 22, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.
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4
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Kim H, Wilton SB, Garcia J. Left atrium 4D-flow segmentation with high-resolution contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1225922. [PMID: 37904808 PMCID: PMC10613494 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1225922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) leads to intracardiac thrombus and an associated risk of stroke. Phase-contrast cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) with flow-encoding in all three spatial directions (4D-flow) provides a time-resolved 3D volume image with 3D blood velocity, which brings individual hemodynamic information affecting thrombus formation. As the resolution and contrast of 4D-flow are limited, we proposed a semi-automated 4D-flow segmentation method for the left atrium (LA) using a standard-of-care contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA) and registration technique. Methods LA of 54 patients with AF were segmented from 4D-flow taken in sinus rhythm using two segmentation methods. (1) Phase-contrast magnetic resonance angiography (PC-MRA) was calculated from 4D-flow, and LA was segmented slice-by-slice manually. (2) LA and other structures were segmented from CE-MRA and transformed into 4D-flow coordinates by registration with the mutual information method. Overlap of volume was tested by the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and the average symmetric surface distance (ASSD). Mean velocity and stasis were calculated to compare the functional property of LA from two segmentation methods. Results LA volumes from segmentation on CE-MRA were strongly correlated with PC-MRA volume, although mean CE-MRA volumes were about 10% larger. The proposed registration scheme resulted in visually successful registration in 76% of cases after two rounds of registration. The mean of DSC of the registered cases was 0.770 ± 0.045, and the mean of ASSD was 2.704 mm ± 0.668 mm. Mean velocity had no significant difference between the two segmentation methods, and mean stasis had a 3.3% difference. Conclusion The proposed CE-MRA segmentation and registration method can generate segmentation for 4D-flow images. This method will facilitate 4D-flow analysis for AF patients by making segmentation easier and overcoming the limit of resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hansuk Kim
- Biomedical Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Stephenson Cardiac Imaging Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Stephen B. Wilton
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Julio Garcia
- Stephenson Cardiac Imaging Centre, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Radiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
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5
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Li YG. Editorial: New insights and future prospects of atrial cardiomyopathy. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1264911. [PMID: 37868780 PMCID: PMC10588621 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1264911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Guang Li
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Beijing, China
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DiCarlo AL, Haji-Valizadeh H, Passman R, Greenland P, McCarthy P, Lee DC, Kim D, Markl M. Assessment of Beat-To-Beat Variability in Left Atrial Hemodynamics Using Real Time Phase Contrast MRI in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation. J Magn Reson Imaging 2023; 58:763-771. [PMID: 36468562 PMCID: PMC10239789 DOI: 10.1002/jmri.28550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hemodynamic assessment of left atrial (LA) flow using phase contrast MRI provides insight into thromboembolic risk in atrial fibrillation (AF). However, conventional flow imaging techniques are averaged over many heartbeats. PURPOSE To evaluate beat-to-beat variability and LA hemodynamics in patients with AF using real time phase contrast (RTPC) MRI. STUDY TYPE Prospective. SUBJECTS Thirty-five patients with history of AF (68 ± 10 years, nine female), 10 healthy controls (57 ± 19 years, four female). FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE 5T, 2D RTPC with through-plane velocity-encoded gradient echo sequence and 4D flow MRI with three-directional velocity-encoded gradient echo sequence. ASSESSMENT RTPC was continuously acquired for a mid-LA slice in all subjects. 4D flow data were interpolated at the RTPC location and normally projected for comparison with RTPC. RR intervals extracted from RTPC were used to calculate heart rate variability (HRV = interquartile range over median × 100%). Patients were classified into low (<9.7%) and high (>9.7%) HRV groups. LA peak/mean velocity and stasis (%velocities < 5.8 cm/sec) were calculated from segmented 2D images. Variability in RTPC flow metrics was quantified by coefficient of variation (CV) over all cycles. STATISTICAL TESTS Pearson's correlation coefficient (r), Bland-Altman analysis, Kruskal-Wallis test. A P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS RTPC and 4D flow measurements were strongly/significantly correlated for all hemodynamic parameters (R2 = 0.75-0.83) in controls. Twenty-four patients had low HRV (mean = 4 ± 2%) and 11 patients had high HRV (27 ± 9%). In patients, increased HRV was significantly correlated with CV of peak velocity (r = 0.67), mean velocity (r = 0.51), and stasis (r = 0.41). A stepwise decrease in peak/mean velocity and increase in stasis was observed when comparing controls vs. low HRV vs. high HRV groups. Mean velocity and stasis differences were significant for control vs. high HRV groups. CONCLUSIONS RTPC may be suitable for assessing the impact of HRV on hemodynamics and provide insight for AF management in highly arrhythmic patients. EVIDENCE LEVEL 1 TECHNICAL EFFICACY: Stage 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L DiCarlo
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
| | - Hassan Haji-Valizadeh
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University McCormick School of Engineering
| | - Rod Passman
- Department of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
| | - Philip Greenland
- Department of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
| | - Patrick McCarthy
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
| | - Daniel C Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
| | - Daniel Kim
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University McCormick School of Engineering
| | - Michael Markl
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Northwestern University McCormick School of Engineering
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7
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Spartera M, Stracquadanio A, Pessoa-Amorim G, Harston G, Mazzucco S, Young V, Von Ende A, Hess AT, Ferreira VM, Kennedy J, Neubauer S, Casadei B, Wijesurendra RS. Reduced Left Atrial Rotational Flow Is Independently Associated With Embolic Brain Infarcts. JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2023; 16:1149-1159. [PMID: 37204381 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2023.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Up to 25% of embolic strokes occur in individuals without atrial fibrillation (AF) or other identifiable mechanisms. OBJECTIVES This study aims to assess whether left atrial (LA) blood flow characteristics are associated with embolic brain infarcts, independently of AF. METHODS The authors recruited 134 patients: 44 with a history of ischemic stroke and 90 with no history of stroke but CHA2DS2VASc score ≥1. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) evaluated cardiac function and LA 4-dimensional flow parameters, including velocity and vorticity (a measure of rotational flow), and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed to detect large noncortical or cortical infarcts (LNCCIs) (likely embolic), or nonembolic lacunar infarcts. RESULTS Patients (41% female; age 70 ± 9 years) had moderate stroke risk (median CHA2DS2VASc = 3, Q1-Q3: 2-4). Sixty-eight (51%) had diagnosed AF, of whom 58 (43%) were in AF during CMR. Thirty-nine (29%) had ≥1 LNCCI, 20 (15%) had ≥1 lacunar infarct without LNCCI, and 75 (56%) had no infarct. Lower LA vorticity was significantly associated with prevalent LNCCIs after adjustment for AF during CMR, history of AF, CHA2DS2VASc score, LA emptying fraction, LA indexed maximum volume, left ventricular ejection fraction, and indexed left ventricular mass (OR: 2.06 [95% CI: 1.08-3.92 per SD]; P = 0.027). By contrast, LA flow peak velocity was not significantly associated with LNCCIs (P = 0.21). No LA parameter was associated with lacunar infarcts (all P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Reduced LA flow vorticity is significantly and independently associated with embolic brain infarcts. Imaging LA flow characteristics may aid identification of individuals who would benefit from anticoagulation for embolic stroke prevention, regardless of heart rhythm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Spartera
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; University of Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom.
| | - Antonio Stracquadanio
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; University of Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Guilherme Pessoa-Amorim
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; University of Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom; CTSU Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - George Harston
- Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Mazzucco
- Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom; Wolfson Centre for Prevention of Stroke and Dementia, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Young
- Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Von Ende
- CTSU Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron T Hess
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; University of Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Vanessa M Ferreira
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; University of Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - James Kennedy
- Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Neubauer
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; University of Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Casadei
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rohan S Wijesurendra
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom; University of Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Oxford, United Kingdom; Oxford University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, United Kingdom; CTSU Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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8
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Bissell MM, Raimondi F, Ait Ali L, Allen BD, Barker AJ, Bolger A, Burris N, Carhäll CJ, Collins JD, Ebbers T, Francois CJ, Frydrychowicz A, Garg P, Geiger J, Ha H, Hennemuth A, Hope MD, Hsiao A, Johnson K, Kozerke S, Ma LE, Markl M, Martins D, Messina M, Oechtering TH, van Ooij P, Rigsby C, Rodriguez-Palomares J, Roest AAW, Roldán-Alzate A, Schnell S, Sotelo J, Stuber M, Syed AB, Töger J, van der Geest R, Westenberg J, Zhong L, Zhong Y, Wieben O, Dyverfeldt P. 4D Flow cardiovascular magnetic resonance consensus statement: 2023 update. J Cardiovasc Magn Reson 2023; 25:40. [PMID: 37474977 PMCID: PMC10357639 DOI: 10.1186/s12968-023-00942-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Hemodynamic assessment is an integral part of the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular disease. Four-dimensional cardiovascular magnetic resonance flow imaging (4D Flow CMR) allows comprehensive and accurate assessment of flow in a single acquisition. This consensus paper is an update from the 2015 '4D Flow CMR Consensus Statement'. We elaborate on 4D Flow CMR sequence options and imaging considerations. The document aims to assist centers starting out with 4D Flow CMR of the heart and great vessels with advice on acquisition parameters, post-processing workflows and integration into clinical practice. Furthermore, we define minimum quality assurance and validation standards for clinical centers. We also address the challenges faced in quality assurance and validation in the research setting. We also include a checklist for recommended publication standards, specifically for 4D Flow CMR. Finally, we discuss the current limitations and the future of 4D Flow CMR. This updated consensus paper will further facilitate widespread adoption of 4D Flow CMR in the clinical workflow across the globe and aid consistently high-quality publication standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malenka M Bissell
- Department of Biomedical Imaging Science, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine (LICAMM), LIGHT Laboratories, Clarendon Way, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9NL, UK.
| | | | - Lamia Ait Ali
- Institute of Clinical Physiology CNR, Massa, Italy
- Foundation CNR Tuscany Region G. Monasterio, Massa, Italy
| | - Bradley D Allen
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alex J Barker
- Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Center, Aurora, USA
| | - Ann Bolger
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Nicholas Burris
- Department of Radiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Carl-Johan Carhäll
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Tino Ebbers
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Alex Frydrychowicz
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck and Universität Zu Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Pankaj Garg
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Julia Geiger
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, University Children's Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hojin Ha
- Department of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, South Korea
| | - Anja Hennemuth
- Institute of Computer-Assisted Cardiovascular Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Michael D Hope
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Albert Hsiao
- Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Kevin Johnson
- Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sebastian Kozerke
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University and ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Liliana E Ma
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael Markl
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Duarte Martins
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Hospital de Santa Cruz, Centro Hospitalar Lisboa Ocidental, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marci Messina
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Thekla H Oechtering
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Lübeck and Universität Zu Lübeck, Lübeck, Germany
- Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Pim van Ooij
- Department of Radiology & Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Division of Pediatrics, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Cynthia Rigsby
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Imaging, Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jose Rodriguez-Palomares
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Universitari Vall d´Hebron,Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red-CV, CIBER CV, Madrid, Spain
| | - Arno A W Roest
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Willem-Alexander's Children Hospital, Leiden University Medical Center and Center for Congenital Heart Defects Amsterdam-Leiden, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | | | - Susanne Schnell
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Physics, Institute of Physics, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Julio Sotelo
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
- Biomedical Imaging Center, Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Millennium Institute for Intelligent Healthcare Engineering - iHEALTH, Santiago, Chile
| | - Matthias Stuber
- Département de Radiologie Médicale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ali B Syed
- Department of Radiology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Johannes Töger
- Clinical Physiology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Rob van der Geest
- Division of Image Processing, Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jos Westenberg
- CardioVascular Imaging Group (CVIG), Department of Radiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Liang Zhong
- National Heart Centre Singapore, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yumin Zhong
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Children's Medical Center Affiliated With Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Oliver Wieben
- Departments of Radiology and Medical Physics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Petter Dyverfeldt
- Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Center for Medical Image Science and Visualization (CMIV), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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9
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Pallikadavath S, Richards C, Bountziouka V, Sandilands AJ, Graham-Brown MPM, Robinson T, Singh A, McCann GP. The AFLETES Study: Atrial Fibrillation in Veteran Athletes and the Risk of Stroke. Clin J Sport Med 2023; 33:209-216. [PMID: 37042823 DOI: 10.1097/jsm.0000000000001115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Endurance athletes are at an increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) when compared with the general population. However, the risk of stroke in athletes with AF is unknown. DESIGN AND SETTING We aimed to assess this risk using an international online survey. PATIENTS Individuals that had competed in ≥1 competitive events and were ≥40 years old were included. INTERVENTIONS Self-reported demographic, medical history, and training history data were collected, and a CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc was calculated. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Binary logistic regression was used to assess variables associated with AF and stroke. RESULTS There were 1002 responses from participants in 41 countries across Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, and North and South America, and 942 were included in the final analysis. The average age was 52.4 ± 8.5 years, and 84% were male. The most common sports were cycling (n = 677, 72%), running (n = 558, 59%), and triathlon (n = 245, 26%). There were 190 (20%) individuals who reported AF and 26 individuals (3%) who reported stroke; of which, 14 (54%) had AF. Lifetime exercise dose [odds ratio (OR), 1.02, 95% confidence interval (95% CI),1.00-1.03, P = 0.02] and swimming (OR, 1.56, 95% CI, 1.02-2.39, P = 0.04) were associated with AF in multivariable analysis, independent of other risk factors. Atrial fibrillation was associated with stroke (OR, 4.18, 95% CI, 1.80-9.72, P < 0.01), even in individuals with a low (0/1) CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score (OR, 4.20, 95% CI, 1.83-9.66, P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS This survey provides early evidence that veteran endurance athletes who develop AF may be at an increased risk of developing stroke, even in those deemed to be at low risk by CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susil Pallikadavath
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester and the National Institute of Health Research Leicester Biomedical Research Centre, Glenfield Hospital, Leicester, United Kingdom
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10
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Atrial cardiomyopathy: Diagnosis, clinical implications and unresolved issues in anticoagulation therapy. J Electrocardiol 2023; 76:1-10. [PMID: 36370545 DOI: 10.1016/j.jelectrocard.2022.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Atrial cardiomyopathy (AC) is an evolving pathophysiological entity that has expanded our understanding regarding the atrium and its role in arrhythmogenesis and cardiac thromboembolism. The pathological myocardium in AC promotes arrhythmogenesis through mechanical dysfunction (hypocontractility, fibrosis), adverse alterations of the endothelium and secretion of prothrombotic factors (IL-6, IL-8, TNF-a). 'Red flags', indicative of AC, can be recognized either non-invasively by electrocardiography, echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging or invasively by high-density electroanatomical mapping as low bipolar voltage areas of the affected myocardium. Signs of AC have been strongly associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke, even embolic strokes of undetermined source, regardless of the coexistence of atrial fibrillation (AF). The underlying existence of AC has been negatively correlated with the success rate of catheter ablation of AF. The clinical value of AC is the provision of a novel pathway regarding the potential mechanisms of cerebrovascular events of cardiac thromboembolic origin. In addition, AC may serve as a risk stratification tool to predict the long-term responders of AF catheter ablation.
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11
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Corti M, Zingaro A, Dede' L, Quarteroni AM. Impact of atrial fibrillation on left atrium haemodynamics: A computational fluid dynamics study. Comput Biol Med 2022; 150:106143. [PMID: 36182758 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2022.106143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We analyse the haemodynamics of the left atrium, highlighting differences between healthy individuals and patients affected by atrial fibrillation. The computational study is based on patient-specific geometries of the left atria to simulate blood flow dynamics. We design a novel procedure to compute the boundary data for the 3D haemodynamic simulations, which are particularly useful in absence of data from clinical measurements. With this aim, we introduce a parametric definition of atrial displacement, and we use a closed-loop lumped parameter model of the whole cardiovascular circulation conveniently tuned on the basis of the patient's characteristics. We evaluate several fluid dynamics indicators for atrial haemodynamics, validating our numerical results in terms of clinical measurements; we investigate the impact of geometric and clinical characteristics on the risk of thrombosis. To highlight the correlation of thrombus formation with atrial fibrillation, according to medical evidence, we propose a novel indicator: age stasis. It arises from the combination of Eulerian and Lagrangian quantities. This indicator identifies regions where slow flow cannot properly rinse the chamber, accumulating stale blood particles, and creating optimal conditions for clots formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Corti
- MOX-Dipartimento di Matematica, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy.
| | - Alberto Zingaro
- MOX-Dipartimento di Matematica, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Luca Dede'
- MOX-Dipartimento di Matematica, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy
| | - Alfio Maria Quarteroni
- MOX-Dipartimento di Matematica, Politecnico di Milano, Piazza Leonardo da Vinci 32, Milan, 20133, Italy; Institute of Mathematics, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Station 8, Av. Piccard, Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland (Professor Emeritus)
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12
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Sekine T, Nakaza M, Matsumoto M, Ando T, Inoue T, Sakamoto SI, Maruyama M, Obara M, Leonowicz O, Usuda J, Kumita S. 4D Flow MR Imaging of the Left Atrium: What is Non-physiological Blood Flow in the Cardiac System? Magn Reson Med Sci 2022; 21:293-308. [PMID: 35185085 PMCID: PMC9680542 DOI: 10.2463/mrms.rev.2021-0137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Most cardiac diseases cause a non-physiological blood flow pattern known as turbulence around the heart and great vessels, which further worsen the disease itself. However, there is no consensus on how blood flow can be defined in disease conditions. Especially, in the left atrium, the fact that vortex flow already exists makes this debate more complicated. 3D time-resolved phase-contrast (4D flow) MRI is expected to be able to capture blood flow patterns from multiple aspects, such as blood flow velocity, stasis, and vortex quantification. Previous studies have confirmed that physiological vortex flow is predominantly induced by the higher-volume flow from the superior left pulmonary vein. In atrial fibrillation, 4D flow MRI reveals a non-physiological blood flow pattern, which information may add value to well-established clinical risk factors. Currently, the research target of LA analysis has also widened to lung surgeons, pulmonary vein stump thrombosis after left upper lobectomy. 4D flow MRI is expected to be utilized for many more variable diseases that are currently unimaginable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuro Sekine
- Department of Radiology, Nippon Medical School, Musashi Kosugi Hospital, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masatoki Nakaza
- Department of Radiology, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mitsuo Matsumoto
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nippon Medical School, Musashi Kosugi Hospital, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ando
- Department of Radiology, Nippon Medical School, Nagayama Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Inoue
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shun-Ichiro Sakamoto
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Nippon Medical School, Musashi Kosugi Hospital, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mitsunori Maruyama
- Department of Cardiology, Nippon Medical School, Musashi Kosugi Hospital, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan
| | | | | | - Jitsuo Usuda
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
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13
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Isoda H, Fukuyama A. Quality Control for 4D Flow MR Imaging. Magn Reson Med Sci 2022; 21:278-292. [PMID: 35197395 PMCID: PMC9680545 DOI: 10.2463/mrms.rev.2021-0165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, 4D flow MRI has become increasingly important in clinical applications for the blood vessels in the whole body, heart, and cerebrospinal fluid. 4D flow MRI has advantages over 2D cine phase-contrast (PC) MRI in that any targeted area of interest can be analyzed post-hoc, but there are some factors to be considered, such as ensuring measurement accuracy, a long imaging time and post-processing complexity, and interobserver variability.Due to the partial volume phenomenon caused by low spatial and temporal resolutions, the accuracy of flow measurement in 4D flow MRI is reduced. For spatial resolution, it is recommended to include at least four voxels in the vessel of interest, and if possible, six voxels. In large vessels such as the aorta, large voxels can be secured and SNR can be maintained, but in small cerebral vessels, SNR is reduced, resulting in reduced accuracy. A temporal resolution of less than 40 ms is recommended. The velocity-to-noise ratio (VNR) of low-velocity blood flow is low, resulting in poor measurement accuracy. The use of dual velocity encoding (VENC) or multi-VENC is recommended to avoid velocity wrap around and to increase VNR. In order to maintain sufficient spatio-temporal resolution, a longer imaging time is required, leading to potential patient movement during examination and a corresponding decrease in measurement accuracy.For the clinical application of new technologies, including various acceleration techniques, in vitro and in vivo accuracy verification based on existing accuracy-validated 2D cine PC MRI and 4D flow MRI, as well as accuracy verification on the conservation of mass' principle, should be performed, and intraobserver repeatability, interobserver reproducibility, and test-retest reproducibility should be checked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruo Isoda
- Brain and Mind Research Center, Nagoya University, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
- Biomedical Imaging Sciences, Department of Integrated Health Sciences, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Atsushi Fukuyama
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Radiological Sciences, Japan Healthcare University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
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14
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Spartera M, Stracquadanio A, Pessoa-Amorim G, Von Ende A, Fletcher A, Manley P, Ferreira VM, Hess AT, Hopewell JC, Neubauer S, Wijesurendra RS, Casadei B. The impact of atrial fibrillation and stroke risk factors on left atrial blood flow characteristics. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2021; 23:115-123. [PMID: 34687541 PMCID: PMC8685601 DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeab213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Altered left atrial (LA) blood flow characteristics account for an increase in cardioembolic stroke risk in atrial fibrillation (AF). Here, we aimed to assess whether exposure to stroke risk factors is sufficient to alter LA blood flow even in the presence of sinus rhythm (SR). METHODS AND RESULTS We investigated 95 individuals: 37 patients with persistent AF, who were studied before and after cardioversion [Group 1; median CHA2DS2-VASc = 2.0 (1.5-3.5)]; 35 individuals with no history of AF but similar stroke risk to Group 1 [Group 2; median CHA2DS2-VASc = 3.0 (2.0-4.0)]; and 23 low-risk individuals in SR [Group 3; median CHA2DS2-VASc = 0.0 (0.0-0.0)]. Cardiac function and LA flow characteristics were evaluated using cardiac magnetic resonance. Before cardioversion, Group 1 displayed impaired left ventricular (LV) and LA function, reduced LA flow velocities and vorticity, and a higher normalized vortex volume (all P < 0.001 vs. Groups 2 and 3). After restoration of SR at ≥4-week post-cardioversion, LV systolic function and LA flow parameters improved significantly (all P < 0.001 vs. pre-cardioversion) and were no longer different from those in Group 2. However, in the presence of SR, LA flow peak and mean velocity, and vorticity were lower in Groups 1 and 2 vs. Group 3 (all P < 0.01), and were associated with impaired LA emptying fraction (LAEF) and LV diastolic dysfunction. CONCLUSION Patients at moderate-to-high stroke risk display altered LA flow characteristics in SR in association with an LA myopathic phenotype and LV diastolic dysfunction, regardless of a history of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Spartera
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6, West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, Oxford, UK
| | - Antonio Stracquadanio
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6, West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Guilherme Pessoa-Amorim
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6, West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Adam Von Ende
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Alison Fletcher
- Acute Vascular Imaging Centre, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Peter Manley
- Acute Vascular Imaging Centre, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Vanessa M Ferreira
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6, West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, Oxford, UK
| | - Aaron T Hess
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, Oxford, UK
| | - Jemma C Hopewell
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Stefan Neubauer
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6, West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, Oxford, UK
| | - Rohan S Wijesurendra
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6, West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Oxford Centre for Clinical Magnetic Resonance Research, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, Oxford, UK
| | - Barbara Casadei
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Level 6, West Wing, Headley Way, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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15
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Peters DC, Lamy J, Sinusas AJ, Baldassarre LA. Left atrial evaluation by cardiovascular magnetic resonance: sensitive and unique biomarkers. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2021; 23:14-30. [PMID: 34718484 DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeab221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Left atrial (LA) imaging is still not routinely used for diagnosis and risk stratification, although recent studies have emphasized its importance as an imaging biomarker. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance is able to evaluate LA structure and function, metrics that serve as early indicators of disease, and provide prognostic information, e.g. regarding diastolic dysfunction, and atrial fibrillation (AF). MR angiography defines atrial anatomy, useful for planning ablation procedures, and also for characterizing atrial shapes and sizes that might predict cardiovascular events, e.g. stroke. Long-axis cine images can be evaluated to define minimum, maximum, and pre-atrial contraction LA volumes, and ejection fractions (EFs). More modern feature tracking of these cine images provides longitudinal LA strain through the cardiac cycle, and strain rates. Strain may be a more sensitive marker than EF and can predict post-operative AF, AF recurrence after ablation, outcomes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, stratification of diastolic dysfunction, and strain correlates with atrial fibrosis. Using high-resolution late gadolinium enhancement (LGE), the extent of fibrosis in the LA can be estimated and post-ablation scar can be evaluated. The LA LGE method is widely available, its reproducibility is good, and validations with voltage-mapping exist, although further scan-rescan studies are needed, and consensus regarding atrial segmentation is lacking. Using LGE, scar patterns after ablation in AF subjects can be reproducibly defined. Evaluation of 'pre-existent' atrial fibrosis may have roles in predicting AF recurrence after ablation, predicting new-onset AF and diastolic dysfunction in patients without AF. LA imaging biomarkers are ready to enter into diagnostic clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana C Peters
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jérôme Lamy
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Albert J Sinusas
- Department of Cardiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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