Routine use of a 3D mapping system in the ablation of supraventricular arrhythmias with as low as reasonably achievable X-ray exposure (AALARA): protocol for a prospective, observational, multicentre, multinational, open-label registry study

INTRODUCTION

The reduction of fluoroscopic exposure during catheter ablation of supraventricular arrhythmias is widely adopted by experienced electrophysiology physicians with a relatively short learning curve and is becoming standard of care in many parts of the world. While observational studies in the USA and some parts of Western Europe have evaluated the minimal fluoroscopic approach, there are scarce real-world data for this technique and generalisability of outcome in other economic regions.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The arrhythmias with as low as reasonably achievable X-ray exposure study is a prospective, observational, multicentre and multinational open-label registry study. Up to 700 patients undergoing catheter ablation for right-sided supraventricular arrhythmias (according to national guidelines) will be enrolled for the routine use of the EnSite Precision 3D mapping system. Participating sites are distributed in 13 countries from Central Eastern Europe, North and South Africa, the Middle East and the CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States), with different levels of expertise using minimal fluoroscopic exposure techniques. After electrophysiological procedure, patients will be followed up for 6 months either in-clinic or via telephone interview. Patients will be asked to complete a study questionnaire at enrolment and 6 months after the invasive procedure to assess quality of life changes secondary to the procedure. The study's primary objective is to describe ionising radiation exposure during catheter ablation when the EnSite Precision 3D mapping system is used in supraventricular tachycardia ablation. The study's secondary objective is to assess the safety and efficacy of this method. Furthermore, fluoroscopy timing, total procedure time, success rate and complications will be reported.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study was approved by the ethics committee at Mohammed Bin Khalifa Specialist Cardiac Centre (BDF/R&REC/2020-504) and the medical ethics committees of all participating sites. Participants will be required to provide informed consent before enrolment in the study. The study results will be published and presented at conferences.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04716270.

The Distribution of the Genotypes of ABCB1 and CES1 Polymorphisms in Kazakhstani Patients with Atrial Fibrillation Treated with DOAC

Nowadays, direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are the first-line anticoagulant strategy in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). We aimed to identify the influence of polymorphisms of the genes encoding P-glycoprotein (ABCB1) and carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) on the variability of plasma concentrations of DOACs in Kazakhstani patients with NVAF. We analyzed polymorphisms rs4148738, rs1045642, rs2032582 and rs1128503 in ABCB1 and rs8192935, rs2244613 and rs71647871 CES1 genes and measured the plasma concentrations of dabigatran/apixaban and biochemical parameters in 150 Kazakhstani NVAF patients. Polymorphism rs8192935 in the CES1 gene (p = 0.04), BMI (p = 0.01) and APTT level (p = 0.01) were statistically significant independent factors of trough plasma concentration of dabigatran. In contrast, polymorphisms rs4148738, rs1045642, rs2032582 and rs1128503 in ABCB1 and rs8192935, rs2244613 and rs71647871 CES1 genes did not show significant influence on plasma concentrations of dabigatran/apixaban drugs (p > 0.05). Patients with GG genotype (138.8 ± 100.1 ng/mL) had higher peak plasma concentration of dabigatran than with AA genotype (100.9 ± 59.6 ng/mL) and AG genotype (98.7 ± 72.3 ng/mL) (Kruskal-Wallis test, p = 0.25). Thus, CES1 rs8192935 is significantly associated with plasma concentrations of dabigatran in Kazakhstani NVAF patients (p < 0.05). The level of the plasma concentration shows that biotransformation of the dabigatran processed faster in individual carriers of GG genotype rs8192935 in the CES1 gene than with AA genotype.

Pregnancy in patients with complete atrioventricular block: management and perinatal outcomes

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Although bradyarrhythmias may occur in pregnant patients, there are few data on their management, pregnancy course and perinatal outcomes.

Purpose

To evaluate the effects of bradyarrhythmias on the course and outcomes of pregnancy.

Methods

This single-center, prospective study included 8 cases of complete atrioventricular block in pregnant patients (Mean age of pregnant was 25.4±3.6 years, mean gestation age 17.6 ±2.4 weeks). All patients were without structural heart disease. Pregnancy course, clinical outcomes and bradyarrhythmias management were evaluated.

Results

Complete atrioventricular block was registered in three women prior to pregnancy (37.5%). In 5 cases (62.5%) atrioventricular block diagnosed for the first time during this gestation. All included patients had symptoms of dizziness and syncope during pregnancy. Due to hemodynamic instability pacemakers were implanted in all cases of complete atrioventricular block. Procedure-related complications were not documented. Implantation was performed with the help of echocardiographic guidance and electroanatomical mapping (Ensite Precision system) with minimal fluoroscopy. Pregnancy course in patients with bradyarrhythmias characterized by increased incidence of uterine contractile activity (n=3, 37.5%), uterine blood flow violation was in one case (12.5%). Perinatal outcomes: spontaneous vaginal delivery was in the majority of cases (n=7; 87.5%). One pregnant (12.5%) was delivered by cesarean section. One women had placental abruption and preeclampsia (12.5%). Maternal adverse cardiac events and adverse fetal outcomes were none declared. There were 8 live births (in all cases, 100%). Fetal birth weight was 3158.07±458.2 grams, 5 minute Apgar was 8.87±0.6. There were no maternal and fetal mortality.

Conclusions

Complete atrioventricular block, observed in patients, did not require termination of gestation. Implantation of pacemaker in cases of complete atrioventricular block can be safety performed in pregnancy and associated with benign pregnancy course and outcomes in the majority of cases.

Long-term results of zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation in pregnant patients with arrhythmias: a 2-year follow-up study

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Incidences of rhythm disturbance in pregnant are commonly seen. Catheter ablation of arrhythmias has been shown to be effective and safe. Data on perinatal outcomes and results of zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation in pregnant patients is limited.

Purpose

the aim of our study is to observe long-term results and perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with arrhythmias, treated by zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation method.

Methods

There were 48 pregnant women, who underwent zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation (Mean age of pregnant was 25.7±4.3 years, mean gestation age 24.1 ±3.2 weeks). Procedure-related complications, perinatal outcomes and arrhythmia recurrence were documented during 24 months follow-up.

Results

The most common arrhythmias were atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (n=21; 43.75%). This was followed by Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome (n=15; 31.25%). Combination of accessory pathways with slow conduction ways were found in 3 cases (6.25%). In six cases were ablation due to frequent premature ventricular contraction (12.5%). Ventricular tachycardia was rare during pregnancy (n=3; 6.25%). Zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation was performed under the guidance of CARTO (n=21; 43.75%) and Ensite Precision systems (n=27; 56.25%). The median procedural time was 71±15 minutes. Interventions were effective in all cases (100%). Procedural complication was in one patient (2.1%), who developed an ileofemoral thrombosis. Pregnancy course after ablation procedure was benign in all patients. Perinatal outcomes: spontaneus vaginal delivery was in the majority of cases (n=36; 75%). Twelve pregnancies (25%) were delivered by cesarean section due to obstetric indicators. Intrapartum hemorrhage was 335.2±228.92 ml. Two women had placental abraption and preeclampsia (4.2%). Maternal adverse cardiac events were none declared. There were 48 live births (in all cases). Fetal birth weight was 3324.7±684.4 grams, 5 minute Apgar was 8.4±1.3. There were no maternal and fetal mortality. At 24 months there were no arrhythmia recurrence.

Conclusions

Zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation method is safe and effective in pregnant women with arrhythmias. Pregnancy course and outcomes after this procedure is bening in the majority of cases.

Some Echocardiographic Indicators as Probable Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence in Patients with Arterial Hypertension after Catheter Ablation

The work is devoted to the study of possible predictors of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after interventional procedures. Purpose: to study the echocardiographic predictors of AF recurrence in patients with arterial hypertension after pulmonary veins catheter ablation.

Arrhythmia in pregnant women: what management is better?

Background

Arrhythmias in pregnant women are commonly seen but have not been extensively studied. Drug therapy or catheter ablation during pregnancy may be required in cases of maternal arrhythmias. However, the studies did not examine the outcomes of pregnancy in cases with different management of arrhythmias.

Objective

We aimed to determine if there are any differences in pregnancy outcomes in women with disparate types of arrhythmia treatment.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study of all pregnant patients who were admitted to our hospital with arrhythmias from 2017–2020. For patients with benign arrhythmias drug therapy was not required (n=11; 14.5%, 1st group). Antiarrhythmic treatment was justified in cases with frequent symptoms and haemodynamic instability (n=65; 85.5%). Patients with effective antiarrhythmic therapy were included in 2nd group (n=31; 40.8%). In patients with drug refractory and dangerous rhythm disturbances (n=34; 44.7%, 3d group) were performed zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation.

Results

A total of 76 pregnant women were admitted with arrhythmias. Mean age was 27.24±5.15 years, mean gestation age 21.27±5.34 weeks. Supraventricular tachycardia was the most common arrhythmias (n=41; 53.9%) This was followed by premature contractions (n=27; 35.6%) and ventricular tachycardia (n=8; 10.5%). There was significant difference in frequency of performed catheter ablation for disparate types of arrhythmia: 70.7% for cases of supraventricular tachycardia, 25% - ventricular tachycardia and 11.1% - premature contractions (p=0.000). Ablations were effective in all cases without adverse outcome. All ablations were performed without fluoroscopy. Vaginal delivery was in the majority in all groups (75.6% vs 62.5% vs 74.1%, p=0.736). Similarly, no differences were noted in obstetric complication (14.6% vs 12.5% vs 18.5%, p=0.656). None of them had fetal mortality.

Conclusions

Some patients with arrhythmias needed catheter ablation during pregnancy. There was no significant difference in type of delivery and neonatal outcomes in women with separate management of arrhythmias.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Contemporary management of arrhythmias in pregnancy: efficacy and outcomes of catheter ablation without fluoroscopy

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Heart rhythm disorders are the most common cardiac complication occurring in pregnancy. Haemodynamically unstable and drug refractory arrhythmias warrant catheter ablation. However, there are little data of efficacy and outcomes of catheter ablation in pregnant women.

Purpose

To assess efficacy and outcomes of catheter ablation without of fluoroscopy in pregnant women.

Methods

This single center, prospective study included all cases of catheter ablation during gestation (n=48, study group) and pregnant women with antiarrhythmic drug therapy (n=50, control group). Complications, pregnancy course, obstetric and neonatal outcomes were determined and compared.

Results

The most common reported arrhythmias in both groups was supraventricular tachycardia (n=39; 81% vs n=31; 62%, p=0.045). Premature contractions was in 13% cases in study group and 32% in control group (p=0.029). Ventricular tachycardia was rare during pregnant (n=3; 6% vs n=3; 6%, p=1.0). All ablation procedures were performed without fluoroscopy (mean gestation age 24,21±3,32 weeks, mean procedural time of 71±15 minutes). In one women in study group occurred ileofemoral thrombosis, which was treated successfully. Pregnancy course was benign in all women in both group without termination. Uterine blood flow violation was in 12.5% in study group and in 8% - in control (p=0.520). Increased uterine contractility occurred only in women with catheter ablation (n=2; 4.2%, p=0.237). Type of delivery was vaginal in the majority in both groups (n=36; 75% vs n=40; 80%, p=0.553). Operative delivery was rare (n=12; 25% vs n=10; 20%, p=0.553), mainly due to obstetric indications. In 2 cases in study group were placental abraption (vs n=0, p=0.237) and preeclampsia (vs n=1; 2%, p=0.613). There were live births in all cases without maternal and fetal mortality. During 1 year follow-up there was no arrhythmia recurrence in study group.

Conclusions

Catheter ablation in pregnant women is safe and effective and can be performed without fluoroscopy. Majority of women with arrhythmias have benign course of pregnancy and perinatal outcomes

Zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation in pregnant women: outcomes and prognosis

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Arrhythmias are common in pregnant. Catheter ablation is effective treatment in cases of drug refractory arrhythmias. However, data are scarce on outcomes and prognosis of catheter ablation in this population of patient.

Purpose

To define the cohort of pregnant undergoing for catheter ablation for arrhythmias, characterize obstetric and neonatal outcomes and prognosis.

Methods

This single-center, prospective study included all catheter ablation procedures for arrhythmias performed in pregnant from January 2015 until December 2019. Primary outcome was recurrence of arrhythmia. Baseline clinical characteristics, complication rates, obstetric and neonatal outcomes were also evaluated.

Results

In total, we included 48 patients (aged 27.04±4.32 years, mean gestation age 21.8±4.22 weeks), indicated for catheter ablation due to drug refractory arrhythmias. The most common arrhythmia was atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (n=20; 41.7%). Ablation of accessory pathways performed in 16 cases (33.3%): in left free wall (n=8), in right free wall (n=7), posteroseptal (n=1). In 3 cases was observed combination of accessory pathways with slow conduction ways. Ablation of the right ventricular outflow tract was performed in 9 cases (18.7%) of ventricular tachycardia. In all cases catheter ablation was performed successfully without fluoroscopy. One patient developed an ileofemoral thrombosis. No other complication after ablation was noted. Pregnancy course was benign in all cases without termination. Premature birth was in 2 cases at 35 and 36 weeks of gestation. Full-term pregnancy was in the majority. Preeclampsia developed in 2 pregnant women. In 75% of pregnancy was vaginal delivery, in 25% - Cesarean section. Fetal birth weight was 3226.34±623,1 grams, 5 minute Apgar was 8,92±1,8. There were 48 live births without maternal and fetal mortality. During 1 year follow-up there was no arrhythmia recurrence.

Conclusions

Non-fluoroscopic catheter ablation of arrhythmias in pregnant women is effective treatment options, with a high success rate, low rates of complication, favorable outcomes and prognosis.

Atypical atrial flutter in patients after cardiac surgery

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Atypical atrial flutter (AFL) is often associated with cardiac surgery or extensive catheter ablation (CA) for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF) [1-2]. Therefore, the increase in the number of cardiac surgery procedures leads to the development of substrates for atypical AFL onset. Incisions after cardiac surgery are common substrates for macro re-entry tachycardia and one patient can suffer from several macro re-entry tachycardia mechanisms. Atrial flutter in this category of patients lead to heart failure.

Objective

The aim of our study was to access the effectiveness and safety of catheter ablation of atypical atrial flutter in patients after cardiac surgery.

Methods

107 adult patients with AFL after cardiac surgery and catheter ablation were included in a single-center prospective study. The patient’s mean age was 57.8±11.1 years with the prevalence of male (56%). BMI was 27,8±5 kg/m 2. All patients underwent radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of atypical AFL with 3D navigation system Carto3 using the CLOSE protocol. The patients were discharged safely and were monitored for 12 months.

Results

According to basic characteristics of patients cardiac surgery performed in 19.6% for CABG, in 9.3% for congenital heart disease and in 58.9% for valvular heart diseases. RFA for pulmonary veins isolation (PVI) for AF was performed in 15.9% and cryoballoon isolation of PVI in 19.6%. The onset of atrial events after incision or catheter ablation was 12 (Q1-14; Q3-25) months. In 8.4% of patients, ejection fraction was less than 40%. The mean RFA time was 110,8±10,4 min, mean fluoroscopy time 2.2 min. There were two re-entry mechanisms in 22.4% of patients, three and more re-entry mechanisms in 8.4% of patients. During 12 months monitoring after RFA in 2 (1.9%) patients registered AFL and in 8 (7.5%) of patients noticed non-sustained palpitations.

Conclusions

RFA of AFL with the use of ablation index and CLOSE protocol lead to the high effect and safety in patients after cardiac surgery. AFL is most frequent in patients after valvular heart surgery and usually occurs 12 months after the surgery.

Arrhythmias in pregnant women without structural heart disease: characteristics and outcomes

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Heart rhythm disorders are relatively common in pregnant women. There are few data of arrhythmia characteristics and perinatal outcomes in patients without any structural heart disease.

Purpose

To describe the clinical peculiarities, pregnancy course and characterize outcomes.

Methods

A total of 99 pregnant without structural heart disease with arrhythmia was included, aged: 29.05±5.37years with a mean gestation age 22.7±7.29 weeks. Clinical characteristics, obstetric and neonatal outcomes were determined.

Results

The most common reported arrhythmias were supraventricular tachycardia (n=46; 46.5%) and premature contractions (n=36; 36.3%). Advanced heart block (n=9; 9.1%) and ventricular tachycardia (n=8; 8.1%) were rare during pregnant with structurally normal heart. The 56% of arrhythmia cases among the examined patients first occurred during current pregnancy. Studying the peculiarities of arrhythmia manifestations, it was determined that in the I trimester of pregnancy the disease symptoms appeared in 11% of the examined women, in the II trimester – in 59%, in the III trimester – in 31%. In the clinic, the most common symptoms of arrhythmia were palpitations (62.6%), general weakness (59.6%), dyspnea (38,4%) and dizziness (29.9%). Pregnancy course was benign in the majority of cases. Termination of pregnancy was in three cases (3%) – in one case due to extracardial cause, in two cases due to life threatening course of ventricular tachycardia. Premature birth was in 2 cases (2.02%). In 75% of pregnancy was vaginal delivery, in 25% - cesarean section. Preeclampsia was in 2 cases (2.02%). There were 99 live births without maternal and fetal mortality.

Conclusions

In pregnant women with no structural heart disease supraventricular tachycardia and premature beats are most common. Majority of patients have good course of pregnancy and outcomes.

Epidemiology of stroke and transient ischemic attacks in the population of the territories adjacent to the former Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site, Kazakhstan

The issue of radiation exposure as a potential cause of cerebrovascular disease raises many concerns. The aim of the present study was to investigate the epidemiology of stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIA) along with the associated risk factors among the population of East Kazakhstan exposed to ionising radiation from the former Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test Site (SNTS) in comparison with the unexposed population of the same region. This 5-year retrospective cross-sectional study included the data on 10,970 patients, of whom the majority (62.3%) suffered from ischemic stroke, 11.7% had hemorrhagic stroke and the remaining 26.0% had TIA. At the moment when stroke/TIA happened, exposed patients were younger than the unexposed (mean age 63 years versus 64 years, p < 0.001) and showed higher rates of nearly all associated comorbidities, which commonly were more severe. Besides, exposed patients showed a higher risk of stroke lethality in contrast with the unexposed. The observed features might indicate that people residing in the vicinity of the SNTS are vulnerable to cerebrovascular disease and thus, this study contributes to timely recognition of this public health problem. In addition, a longitudinal study has to be envisaged to clarify whether there is any cause-effect relationship between exposure to radiation from the SNTS and the development of stroke or transient ischemic attacks.

Cryptogenic Stroke and Embolic Stroke of Undetermined Source: Risk Factors and Approaches for Detection of Atrial Fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Stroke is a problem worldwide because of its high mortality and disability rates. Almost 90% of strokes are ischemic, and more than half of the deaths are caused by an ischemic stroke. Most risk factors for stroke are manageable so that it can be avoided with proper prevention. Despite the success in determining the causes of stroke in recent years, selectively, the "culprit" causing stroke remains unsolved. In such cases, a diagnosis of undetermined etiology (cryptogenic stroke) or embolic stroke of undetermined source (ESUS) is generated, resulting the prevention of a recurrent cerebrovascular occurrence impossible. Atrial fibrillation (AF) can be a cause of stroke by causing blood clots in the chambers of the heart.

PURPOSE

The aim was to determine the optimal method of heart rate monitoring in patients with ischemic stroke, as methods and approaches for detecting AF are very diverse, but there is still no single opinion, which would be universal.

PROCEDURES

In our review, we consider epidemiology, risk factors for the stroke of undetermined etiology, as well as analytical methods for detecting heart rhythm disturbances in this category of patients.

FINDINGS

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is detected by thorough monitoring of heart rate of patients with cryptogenic stroke and ESUS can be diagnosed in up to 46% of patients. .

CONCLUSION

After AF detection, consideration should be given to prescribing anticoagulants, instead of antiplatelet agents, for the secondary prevention of stroke.

Home Management of the Device Detected Atrial Fibrillation during COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Report

BACKGROUND: Patients with heart failure (HF) and implanted heart devices constitute a vulnerable category during the coronavirus disease –2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The remote monitoring function allows the physician to detect atrial fibrillation (AF) in these patients and to prevent thromboembolic complications by prescribing anticoagulants. Under quarantine conditions, such patients can receive fully remote consultation and treatment, which will protect them from the risk of infection, and also reduce the burden on medical institutions. CASE REPORT: A 56-year-old man presented to the clinic with shortness of breath when climbing the second floor, moderate non-specific fatigue, general weakness, and a decrease in exercise tolerance. The patient received standard treatment for HF for at least 3 months (ACEI, beta blockers, MR antagonists, and loop diuretics) in individually selected adequate doses. ECG on admission showed a QRS of 150 ms, left bundle branch block (LBBB). Echo showed dilatation of all heart chambers, diffuse hypokinesis of the walls with akinesis of the apical, middle anterior LV segments, as well as hypokinesis of the basal, middle apical, and anterior septal segment of the LV. The ejection fraction was reduced to 35%. RV function is reduced. After a detailed discussion with the team, it was decided to do implantation of a cardioverter-defibrillator with resynchronization function, equipped with remote monitoring (Biotronik, and Home monitoring). Date of implantation is June 19, 2014. Due to the fact that the patient was connected to the remote monitoring system, May 5, 2020, he was diagnosed with asymptomatic AF. The episode lasted 1 min 22 s. On the following days of monitoring, episodes of AF were also recorded. The duration of the episodes ranged from a few seconds to 12 h/day. The patient received a doctor’s consultation through phone call, his risk of stroke was four when assessed using the CHA2DS2VASc scale. In treatment, it was recommended to add antiarrhythmic drugs (amiodarone 600 mg a day) and oral anticoagulants (rivaroxaban 20 mg × 1 time/day). Later, periodic IEGM showed absence of AF. CONCLUSION: In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, health-care providers should rethink their approach to managing patients with implanted heart devices. Modern cardiovascular implantable electronic devices allow the physician to monitor the status of patients and immediately respond to situations requiring a change in treatment. Consultations can be carried out completely online.

The efficacy and safety of non-fluoroscopic catheter ablation of arrhythmias in pregnancy after mid-long-term follow-up: a single- center experience

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Despite the incidence of arrhythmias in pregnancy data on non-fluoroscopic catheter ablation in pregnant women and perinatal outcomes is limited.

Purpose

the aim of this study is to prospectively assess the efficacy and safety of non-fluoroscopic catheter ablation in pregnant women with arrhythmias.

Methods

44 pregnant women (mean age of 28,2 ± 4,2 years, mean gestation age 24,4 ±3,8 weeks) indicated for catheter ablation were enrolled. The ablation was performed under the guidance of CARTO (n = 20; 45%) and Ensite Precision systems (n = 24; 55%) without fluoroscopy. Ablation characteristics, procedure-related complications and clinical outcomes were evaluated during 18 months follow-up.

Results

all 44 cases of ablation were successful.  There were 14 (31,8%) ablation of accessory pathways - in left free wall (n = 8),  in right free wall (n = 5), posteroseptal (n = 1). 19 patients (43,2%) underwent ablation for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia. In 3 cases (6,8%) were combination of accessory pathways with slow conduction ways. Ablation of the right ventricular outflow tract was performed in 8 cases (18,2%) of frequent premature ventricular contractions and idiopathic ventricular tachycardia.  The median procedural time was 71 minutes (interquartile range 54-97). Procedural complication was documented in 1 patient (2,3%), who developed an ileofemoral thrombosis. Perinatal outcomes: spontaneus vaginal (n = 35; 79.5%) or vaginal-assisted (n = 4; 9.1%) delivery were in the majority. Five pregnancies (11.4%) were delivered by cesarean section. Mean median gestational age at delivery was 39 ± 1,12 weeks. In one case was placental abruption (2,3%).  Maternal cardiac events was none declared. There were 44 live births (in all pregnancies). Fetal birth weight was 3324,39 ± 625,1 grams, 5 minute Apgar was 8,81 ± 1,9. There were no maternal and fetal mortality. During follow-up there were no arrhythmia recurrence.

Conclusions

non-fluoroscopic catheter ablation of arrhythmias is feasible and can be safety performed in pregnancy. Our data suggests that these pregnancies were with good perinatal and neonatal outcomes.

Management and perinatal outcomes of cardiac arrhythmias in pregnancy

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Arrhythmias in pregnancy are common and can cause significant complications. The decision to use drug therapy or invasive treatment in pregnancy must have absolutely reasons. Data on perinatal outcomes in pregnant women with arrhythmias is limited.

Objective

The aim of our study is to observe the characteristics and prognosis of cardiac arrhythmias in pregnant women.

Methods

72 pregnant women with arrhythmias have been included (single-center, prospectively study). Mean age of patients: 28,34 ± 5,25years, mean gestation age 22,37 ± 6,77 weeks. Clinical characteristics of patients, obstetric and neonatal outcomes were documented.

Results

The most common reported arrhythmias were supraventricular tachycardia (n = 32; 44%). This was followed by premature contractions (n = 29; 40%). Advanced heart block (n = 7; 10%) and ventricular tachycardia (n = 4; 6%) were exceedingly rare during pregnancy. Arrhythmias was benign in 12 patients (17%) and did not require drug therapy. Administration of antiarrhythmic treatment was justified when symptoms were very frequent and cause haemodynamic instability (n = 52; 65,7%). In patients with drug refractory and dangerous rhythm disturbances (n = 22; 31%) were performed catheter ablation by using 3D navigation system without fluoroscopy. Permanent pacemaker was implanted in 7 cases (10%) of third-degree atrioventricular block. Interventions were effective in all cases without adverse outcome. In the majority of cases were spontaneus vaginal (n = 48; 66,7%) or vaginal-assisted (n = 6; 8,3%) delivery. Eighteen pregnancies (25%) were delivered by cesarean section. Intrapartum hemorrhage was 350,4 ± 238,2 ml. Maternal cardiac events and obstetric complications were none declared. There were 72 live births (in all pregnancies). Fetal birth weight was 3407,39 ± 785,61 grams, 5 minute Apgar was 8,47 ± 1,6. There were no maternal and fetal mortality.

Conclusions

supraventricular tachycardia and premature beats are common in pregnancy. Spontaneous vaginal delivery is more likely in this patients. Major maternal and fetal adverse outcomes are infrequent in pregnant women with arrhythmias.

High-density mapping of multiple atypical atrial flutter. First HD GRID mapping experience among The Commonwealth of Independent States

Mapping of multiple atrial tachycardias after previous cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolations and multiple radiofrequency ablations can be challenging even for experienced specialists. HD Grid high-density mapping catheter is one of the catheters, which helps not only to precisely identify the mechanisms of macro-reentry tachycardia but also to avoid unnecessary radiofrequency applications. Accordingly, we present two cases of complex atrial arrhythmia with the use of HD Grid, which showed clear visualization of mechanisms and target ablations with the termination of tachycardia.

[IMPACT OF ARRHYTHMIAS ON PREGNANCY COURSE AND OUTCOMES IN WOMEN WITHOUT STRUCTURAL HEART DISEASE]

The aim of the study was to observe the influence of different type of arrhythmias on pregnancy course and outcomes in women without structural heart disease. 72 pregnant women without structural heart disease with different type of cardiac arrhythmias had been studied. The most common types of arrhythmias were supraventricular tachycardia (44%, the 1st group) and premature contractions (40%, the 2nd group). Less frequently diagnosed ventricular tachycardia (6%, the 3dgroupe) and bradyarrhythmia (10%, the 4th group). A more unfavorable course of pregnancy was in the 4th group: myometrial hypertonici (29%, p=0,001), the only artery of the fetal mbilical cord (14%, p=0,036). Median pregnancy duration was 39 (38;39,5) in all groups. Vaginal delivery was in 54 (75%) cases, Cesarean delivery - in 18 (25%) cases. Birth weight and 5 minute Apgar's score were 3378 (3023;3917,5) and 8,9 (7,8;9) in the 1st group, 3460 (3016,5;4020) and 8,9 (7,8;8,9) - in the 2nd group, 3430 (3300;3650) and 8,9 (8,9;8,9) - in the 3dgroupe, 3334 (2870;3530) and 8,9 (7,9;9) - in the 4th group (p>0,05). There were no maternal and neonatal death. The most common type of arrhythmias in pregnant women without structural heart disease were supraventricular tachycardia (44%) and premature beats (40%). It is associated by good pregnancy course and outcomes in cases qualified manadgment.

Evaluation of the Applicability of the Comparatory Method for Species Diagnosis of Unionidae (Bivalvia) by Genetic Analysis

Five genetically distant groups of mussels possessing high intragroup homogeneity were identified among 65 specimens of 14 East European Unionidae "comparatory species" by genetic analysis of nuclear and mitochondrial markers. By shell morphology other than the shape of the convex contour of the shell, the identified groups correspond to five "taxonomic species" according to Zhadin's classification. The use of the comparatory method for Unionidae species identification is unjustified.

Can chronotropic incompetence predict life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias in patients with stable ischemic heart disease?

BACKGROUND

Chronotropic incompetence has prognostic value of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in both patients with asymptomatic and symptomatic ischemic heart disease (IHD), regardless of traditional risk factors. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between chronotropic response during exercise test and the development of ventricular arrhythmias.

METHODS

153 patients with stable ischemic heart disease were screened and observed during the 24 months since October 2014 in a university hospital in Astana Kazakhstan. They underwent bedside electrocardiography, 24h heart rate Holter monitoring, echocardiography, exercise stress test (treadmill) for assessment of chronotropic index calculating at first contact. Holter- electrocardiography was repeated three times (at 3, 6, 12 months of follow-up period) to reveal life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.

RESULTS

The quantity of the ventricular extrasystoles was higher in the group with low chronotropic index. Low chronotropic index increased the risk of high grade ventricular extrasystoles more than two times (P=0.015); episodes of non-sustained VT more than three times (p<0.001); and episodes of sustained VT more than nine times (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Chronotropic index less than 35.6 increases the risk for life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias in patients with stable chronicle ischemic heart disease irrespectively of severe left ventricle systolic dysfunction.

Sequence Alterations of I(Ks) Potassium Channel Genes in Kazakhstani Patients with Atrial Fibrillation

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia, and it results in significant morbidity and mortality. However, the pathogenesis of AF remains unclear to date. Recently, more pieces of evidence indicated that AF is a multifactorial disease resulting from the interaction between environmental factors and genetics. Recent studies suggest that genetic mutation of the slow delayed rectifier potassium channel (I(Ks)) may underlie AF.

Objective

To investigate sequence alterations of I(Ks) potassium channel genes KCNQ1, KCNE1 and KCNE2 in Kazakhstani patients with atrial fibrillation.

Methods

Genomic DNA of 69 cases with atrial fibrillation and 27 relatives were analyzed for mutations in all protein-coding exons and their flanking splice site regions of the genes KCNQ1 (NM_000218.2 and NM_181798.1), KCNE1 (NM_000219.2), and KCNE2 (NM_172201.1) using bidirectional sequencing on the ABI 3730xL DNA Analyzer (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA, USA).

Results

In total, a disease-causing mutation was identified in 39 of the 69 (56.5%) index cases. Of these, altered sequence variants in the KCNQ1 gene accounted for 14.5% of the mutations, whereas a KCNE1 mutation accounted for 43.5% of the mutations and KCNE2 mutation accounted for 1.4% of the mutations. The majority of the distinct mutations were found in a single case (80%), whereas 20% of the mutations were observed more than once. We found two sequence variants in KCNQ1 exon 13 (S546S G1638A) and exon 16 (Y662Y, C1986T) in ten patients (14.5%). In KCNE1 gene in exon 3 mutation, S59G A280G was observed in 30 of 69 patients (43.5%) and KCNE2 exon 2 T10K C29A in 1 patient (1.4%). Genetic cascade screening of 27 relatives to the 69 index cases with an identified mutation revealed 26.9% mutation carriers who were at risk of cardiac events such as syncope or sudden unexpected death.

Conclusion

In this cohort of Kazakhstani index cases with AF, a disease-causing mutation was identified in 56.5 % of the referred patients. Further screening of mutations in other genes encoding cardiac ion channels is needed to clarify possible disease causing and founder mutations in Kazakhstani atrial fibrillation patients.

RYR2 sequencing reveals novel missense mutations in a Kazakh idiopathic ventricular tachycardia study cohort

Channelopathies, caused by disturbed potassium or calcium ion management in cardiac myocytes are a major cause of heart failure and sudden cardiac death worldwide. The human ryanodine receptor 2 (RYR2) is one of the key players tightly regulating calcium efflux from the sarcoplasmic reticulum to the cytosol and found frequently mutated (<60%) in context of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT1). We tested 35 Kazakhstani patients with episodes of ventricular arrhythmia, two of those with classical CPVT characteristics and 33 patients with monomorphic idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia, for variants in the hot-spot regions of the RYR2 gene. This approach revealed two novel variants; one de-novo RYR2 mutation (c13892A>T; p.D4631V) in a CPVT patient and a novel rare variant (c5428G>C; p.V1810L) of uncertain significance in a patient with VT of idiopathic origin which we suggest represents a low-penetrance or susceptibility variant. In addition we identified a known variant previously associated with arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia type2 (ARVD2). Combining sets of prediction scores and reference databases appeared fundamental to predict the pathogenic potential of novel and rare missense variants in populations where genotype data are rare.