Multiorgan congestion assessment by venous excess ultrasound score in acute heart failure

BACKGROUND

This study sought to explore the prevalence and clinical utility of different patterns of multi-organ venous congestion as assessed by the Venous Excess Ultrasound (VExUS) score in hospitalized patients with acute heart failure (HF).

METHODS

Consecutive patients admitted for acute HF were prospectively enrolled. Inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter, hepatic vein, portal vein and renal vein Doppler waveforms were assessed at admission and patients were stratified based on VExUS score from 0 to 3, with higher values indicating worse congestion. The clinical score Get With The Guidelines (GWTG)-HF for predicting in-hospital mortality in HF was evaluated. In-hospital mortality was recorded.

RESULTS

Two-hundred-ninety patients admitted with acute HF were included and 114 (39%) of them were classified as VExUS score 3 which was the most prevalent group. Patients with VExUS score 3 suffered more frequently from chronic atrial fibrillation, chronic kidney disease and anemia. Parameters independently associated with VExUS score 3 were higher mean E/e' ratio, larger right ventricular size, severe tricuspid regurgitation and impaired right atrial function. VExUS score 3 was associated with in-hospital mortality [OR 8.03, 95% CI (2.25-28.61), p=0.001]. The addition of VExUS score on top of the GWTG-HF score improved the predictability of the model (Δx2=+8.44, p=0.03) for in-hospital mortality, whereas other indices of venous congestion (right atrial function, IVC size) did not.

CONCLUSION

Patients admitted with acute HF commonly had severe venous congestion based on VExUS score. VExUS score improved the prediction of in-hospital mortality as compared to other indices of venous congestion.

Impact of Anatomical and Viability-guided Completeness of Revascularization on Clinical Outcomes in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

Complete revascularization of coronary disease has been linked to improved outcomes in patients with preserved left ventricular (LV) function.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the impact of complete revascularization in patients with severe LV dysfunction.

METHODS

Patients enrolled in the REVIVED-BCIS2 trial were eligible if baseline/procedural angiograms and viability studies were available for analysis by independent core laboratories. Anatomical and viability-guided completeness of revascularization were measured by the coronary and myocardial revascularization indices (RIcoro and RImyo) respectively, where RIcoro=[change in BCIS Jeopardy Score (BCIS-JS)] / [baseline BCIS-JS] and RImyo=[number of revascularized viable segments] / [ number of viable segments supplied by diseased vessels]. The PCI group was classified as having complete or incomplete revascularization by median RIcoro and RImyo. The primary outcome was death or hospitalization for heart failure.

RESULTS

Of 700 randomized patients, 670 were included. The baseline BCIS-JS and SYNTAX scores were 8 (6 to 10) and 22 (15 to 29) respectively. In those assigned to PCI, median RIcoro and RImyo values were 67% and 85%. Compared to the group assigned to optimal medical therapy alone, there was no difference in the likelihood of the primary outcome in those receiving complete anatomical or viability-guided revascularization (HR 0.90, 95% CI 0.62-1.32 and HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.66-1.35 respectively). A sensitivity analysis by residual SYNTAX score showed no association with outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction, neither complete anatomical nor viability-guided revascularization were associated with improved event-free survival compared to incomplete revascularization or treatment with medical therapy alone.

Moving from left ventricular ejection fraction to deformation imaging in mitral valve regurgitation

The increasing prevalence of valvular heart diseases, specifically mitral regurgitation (MR), underscores the need for a careful and timely approach to intervention. Severe MR, whether primary or secondary, when left untreated leads to adverse outcomes, emphasizing the critical role of a timely surgical or transcatheter intervention. While left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) remains the guideline-recommended measure for assessing left ventricle damage, emerging evidence raises concerns regarding its reliability in MR due to its volume-dependent nature. This review summarizes the existing literature on the role of LVEF and deformation imaging techniques, emphasizing the latter's potential in providing a more accurate evaluation of intrinsic myocardial function. Moreover, it advocates the need for an integrated approach that combines traditional with emerging measures, aiming to optimize the management of patients with MR. It attempts to highlight the need for future research to validate the clinical application of deformation imaging techniques through large-scale studies.

Intracoronary Thrombolysis in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: an Updated Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is the standard reperfusion treatment in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Intracoronary thrombolysis (ICT) may reduce thrombotic burden in the infarct-related artery, which is often responsible for microvascular obstruction and no-reflow.

METHODS

We conducted, according to the PRISMA statement, the largest meta-analysis to date of ICT as adjuvant therapy to PPCI. All relevant studies were identified by searching the PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science.

RESULTS

Thirteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving a total of 1876 patients were included. Compared to the control group, STEMI ICT-treated patients had fewer major adverse cardiac events (MACE) (OR 0.65, 95% CI, 0.48-0.86, P = 0.003) and an improved 6-month left ventricular ejection fraction (MD 3.78, 95% CI, 1.53-6.02, P = 0.0010). Indices of enhanced myocardial microcirculation were better with ICT (Post-PCI corrected thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) frame count (MD - 3.57; 95% CI, - 5.00 to - 2.14, P < 0.00001); myocardial blush grade (MBG) 2/3 (OR 1.76; 95% CI, 1.16-2.69, P = 0.008), and complete ST-segment resolution (OR 1.97; 95% CI, 1.33-2.91, P = 0.0007)). The odds for major bleeding were comparable between the 2 groups (OR 1.27; 95% CI, 0.61-2.63, P = 0.53).

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis suggests that ICT was associated with improved MACE and myocardial microcirculation in STEMI patients undergoing PPCI, without significant increase in major bleeding. However, these findings necessitate confirmation in a contemporary large RCT.

Acalculous Cholecystitis in COVID-19 Patients: A Narrative Review

Acute acalculous cholecystitis (AAC) represents cholecystitis without gallstones, occurring in approximately 5-10% of all cases of acute cholecystitis in adults. Several risk factors have been recognized, while infectious diseases can be a cause of cholecystitis in otherwise healthy people. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and has spread worldwide, leading to an unprecedented pandemic. The virus enters cells through the binding of the spike protein to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors expressed in many human tissues, including the epithelial cells of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, and this explains the symptoms emanating from the digestive system. Acute cholecystitis has been reported in patients with COVID-19. The purpose of this review is to provide a detailed analysis of the current literature on the pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, and outcomes of AAC in patients with COVID-19.

Multimodality imaging for the global evaluation of aortic stenosis: The valve, the ventricle, the afterload

Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most common valvular heart disease growing in parallel to the increment of life expectancy. Besides the valve, the degenerative process affects the aorta, impairing its elastic properties and leading to increased systemic resistance. The composite of valvular and systemic afterload mediates ventricular damage. The first step of a thorough evaluation of AS should include a detailed assessment of valvular anatomy and hemodynamics. Subsequently, the ventricle, and the global afterload should be assessed to define disease stage and prognosis. Multimodality imaging is of paramount importance for the comprehensive evaluation of these three elements. Echocardiography is the cornerstone modality whereas Multi-Detector Computed Tomography and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance provide useful complementary information. This review comprehensively examines the merits of these imaging modalities in AS for the evaluation of the valve, the ventricle, and the afterload and ultimately endeavors to integrate them in a holistic assessment of AS.

Temporal Trends in Diagnostic Hemodynamics and Survival of Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension: A Single-Center Study

Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary hypertension (PH) have gradually improved the disease course. This retrospective cohort study aims to explore the diagnostic hemodynamic profile and survival of PH patients and their temporal changes, as well as investigate potential prognostic factors. Overall, 257 adult patients were diagnosed with PH following right heart catheterization (RHC) from January 2008 to June 2023 according to the hemodynamic cut-off values proposed by the corresponding ESC/ERS guidelines at the time RHC was performed. Of these patients, 46.3% were Group 1, 17.8% Group 2, 14.0% Group 3, 18.0% Group 4, and 3.0% Group 5 PH. Temporal improvement in both diagnostic hemodynamic profile and survival of patients with PH and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was identified after 2013. Survival analysis demonstrated 5-year survival rates of 65% in Group 1 PH (90.3% in idiopathic PAH) and 77% in Group 4 PH. PAH patients being at low risk at diagnosis presented a similar 1-year all-cause mortality rate (12.4%) with high-risk ones (12.8%), primarily due to non-PH-related causes of death (62%), while high-risk patients died mostly due to PH (67%). The observed improvements in diagnostic hemodynamic profiles and overall survival highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and successful treatment strategies in PH.

Post-COVID-19 and Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Literature Review

The emergence of post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS), a complex and multifactorial condition that follows the acute COVID-19 infection, has raised serious concerns within the global medical community. Concurrently, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a widespread chronic gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction, is considered to be one of the most common disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI) that significantly affects the quality of life and social functioning of patients. PCS presents a wide range of symptoms and GI manifestations, including IBS. This review aims to analyze the GI involvement and the prolonged symptoms of COVID-19 infection as part of PCS, in order to explore the potential development of post-infection IBS (PI-IBS) in COVID-19 patients. Irritating factors such as enteric infection, psychosocial conditions, food antigens, and antibiotics may lead to abnormalities in the physiological function of the GI system and could be involved in the development of PI-IBS. Through the presentation of the pathophysiological mechanisms and epidemiological studies that assessed the prevalence of IBS as part of PCS, we attempted to provide a better understanding of the long-term consequences of COVID-19 and the pathogenesis of PI-IBS. Even though PI-IBS is becoming a global challenge, there are only a few studies about it and therefore limited knowledge. Currently, the majority of the existing treatment options are referred to non-COVID-19-associated DGBIs. Forthcoming studies may shed light on the mechanisms of PI-IBS that could be targeted for treatment development.

Right Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain and Short-Term Prognosis in Patients With First Acute Myocardial Infarction

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a recognized predictor of dismal prognosis. However, the most reliable RV index to predict mortality early after revascularization remains undetermined. This study aimed to explore the ability of RV global longitudinal strain (GLS) to predict inhospital mortality in patients with first AMI. All consecutive patients with first AMI were prospectively enrolled from March 2022 until February 2023. An echocardiogram was performed 24 hours after successful revascularization and RV GLS alongside conventional echocardiographic indexes were measured. Inhospital mortality was recorded. A total of 300 patients (age 61.2 ± 11.8 years, 74% male) were included in the study. RV GLS was the only RV performance index that differed significantly between anterior and inferior ST-segment-elevation patients with AMI (14.5 ± 5.2% vs 17.4 ± 5.1% respectively, p <0.001). After revascularization, 23 patients (7.7%) died in hospital. The model of Global Registry of Acute Coronary Event risk score and left ventricular ejection fraction, built for predicting inhospital mortality, significantly improved its prognostic performance only by the addition of RV GLS (chi-square value increase by 7.485, p = 0.006) compared with the other RV function indexes. RV GLS was independently associated with inhospital mortality (odds ratio 0.83, 95% confidence interval 0.71 to 0.97, p = 0.017) after adjustment for Global Registry of Acute Coronary Event risk score and left ventricular ejection fraction. Echocardiographic RV GLS measured 24 hours after revascularization in patients with first AMI outperformed conventional RV function indexes in predicting inhospital mortality.

Unmet Needs in the Assessment of Right Ventricular Function for Severe Tricuspid Regurgitation

Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a highly prevalent valvular heart disease that has been long overlooked, but lately its independent association with adverse cardiovascular outcomes was recognized. The time point to intervene and repair the tricuspid valve is defined by the right ventricular (RV) dilation and dysfunction that comes up at a later stage. While guidelines favor tricuspid valve repair before severe RV dysfunction ensues, the definition of RV dysfunction in a universal manner remains vague. As a result, the candidates for transcatheter or surgical TR procedures are often referred late, when advanced RV dysfunction is established, and any derived procedural survival benefit is attenuated. Thus, it is of paramount importance to establish a universal means of RV function assessment in patients with TR. Conventional echocardiographic indices of RV function routinely applied have fundamental flaws that limit the precise characterization of RV performance. More recently, novel echocardiographic indices such as strain via speckle-tracking have emerged, demonstrating promising results in the identification of early RV damage. Additionally, evidence of the role of alternative imaging modalities such as cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance, for RV functional assessment in TR, has recently arisen. This review provides a systematic appraisal of traditional and novel multimodality indices of RV function in severe TR and aims to refine RV function assessment, designate future directions, and ultimately, to improve the outcome of patients suffering from severe TR.

Prognostic Implications of Clinical, Laboratory and Echocardiographic Biomarkers in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction-Rationale and Design of the ''CLEAR-AMI Study''

BACKGROUND

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains a major cause of death worldwide. Survivors of AMI are particularly at high risk for additional cardiovascular events. Consequently, a comprehensive approach to secondary prevention is necessary to mitigate the occurrence of downstream complications. This may be achieved through a multiparametric tailored risk stratification by incorporating clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic parameters.

METHODS

The ''CLEAR-AMI Study'' (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05791916) is a non-interventional, prospective study including consecutive patients with AMI without a known history of coronary artery disease. All patients satisfying these inclusion criteria are enrolled in the present study. The rationale of this study is to refine risk stratification by using clinical, laboratory and novel echocardiographic biomarkers. All the patients undergo a comprehensive transthoracic echocardiographic assessment, including strain and myocardial work analysis of the left and right heart chambers, within 48 h of admission after coronary angiography. Their laboratory profile focusing on systemic inflammation is captured during the first 24 h upon admission, and their demographic characteristics, past medical history, and therapeutic management are recorded. The angioplasty details are documented, the non-culprit coronary lesions are archived, and the SYNTAX score is employed to evaluate the complexity of coronary artery disease. A 24-month follow-up period will be recorded for all patients recruited.

CONCLUSION

The ''CLEAR-AMI" study is an ongoing prospective registry endeavoring to refine risk assessment in patients with AMI without a known history of coronary artery disease, by incorporating echocardiographic parameters, biochemical indices, and clinical and coronary characteristics in the acute phase of AMI.

Effects of Chios Mastiha essential oil on cholesterol levels of healthy volunteers: A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study (MASTIHA-OIL)

INTRODUCTION

Chios Mastiha essential oil (CMO) is a natural product extracted from the resin of Mastiha, possessing antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-ulcer, anti-neoplastic, and cholesterol-lowering capabilities in vitro, and its hypolipidemic effect was confirmed in animal studies. Yet, there are no randomized, placebo-controlled clinical studies in the literature regarding CMO's hypolipidemic effects in humans. A prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled study was designed to study the hypolipidemic effect of CMO capsules on healthy volunteers with elevated cholesterol.

METHODS

192 healthy volunteers were screened and 160 of them with total cholesterol> 200 mg/dl participated in the study. They were randomized with a 2:1 ratio of receiving CMO capsules (200 mg mastiha-oil/capsule) and placebo for 8 weeks respectively. 113 patients received CMO and 47 were randomized in the control group, and all of them completed the follow-up period.

RESULTS

After 8 weeks of CMO administration, total and LDL cholesterol were significantly lower in the CMO compared to the placebo group 215.2 ± 27.5 vs 237.0 ± 27.9 mg/dl (p < 0.001) and 135.0 ± 26.1 vs 153.0 ± 23.3 mg/dl (p < 0.001) respectively. No gastrointestinal adverse events or liver or renal toxicity were reported. Additionally, in the CMO group total cholesterol was significantly decreased by 20.6 mg/dl (9%), LDL by 18.1 mg/dl (12%), triglycerides by 21.8 mg/dl (15%), and glucose by 4.6 mg/dl (5%) and HDL was increased by 2.4 mg/dl (5%), compared to their baseline values.

CONCLUSION

The MASTIHA-OIL study showed the efficacy and safety of CMO in reduction of total and LDL cholesterol after 8 weeks of administration in healthy volunteers with elevated cholesterol levels.

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation with the Portico Valve: 2-Year Outcomes of a Multicenter, Real-World Registry

INTRODUCTION

The self-expanding, resheathable, repositionable transcatheter aortic heart valve Portico is being used successfully for transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedures (TAVI) in patients with severe aortic stenosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate outcomes at 2 years after TAVI with the Portico valve.

METHODS

Multicenter registry of clinical, echocardiographic and survival data from consecutive patients treated with the Portico TAVI system (Abbott, Chicago, IL, USA) in three cath labs in Northern Greece and Epirus during 2017-2020. The primary end point was all-cause mortality at 24 months. Secondary end points included procedural outcomes (efficacy and safety) and echocardiographic measurements.

RESULTS

A total of 90 patients (81 ± 6 years, 50% females, mean age 81 ± 6 years) were included in the registry. The indication for implantation was severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis (NYHA III, IV) in eighty-two (91.1%) and degeneration of a prosthetic aortic valve in eight (8.9%) patients. All patients were categorized as high surgical risk (mean Logistic Euroscore 25.9 ± 10, Euroscore II 7.7 ± 4.4 and STS score 10.8 ± 8.9). The procedure was performed transfemorally in all patients, under general anesthesia in 95.6%, under TOE guidance in 21.1%, with native valve predilatation in 46.7%, and the "resheath" option was used in 31.1% of the cases. The implantation was successful in 97.8% and there was a need for a second valve in 2.2% of the cases. Complications included permanent pacemaker implantation (16.7%), access cite complications (15.6%), arrythmias (23.3%), paravalvular leak (moderate 7.8%, severe 1.1%), acute kidney injury (7.8%), no strokes and one death during the procedure. Aortic valve peak velocity, peak and mean pressure gradients, were significantly reduced after the procedure. All-cause mortality at 1, 12 and 24 months was 4.4%, 6.7% and 7.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

TAVI with the Portico system comprises an effective and safe solution for the management of severe, symptomatic aortic stenosis in high-risk surgical patients.

Fractional Flow Reserve-Guided Stent Optimisation in Focal and Diffuse Coronary Artery Disease

Assessing coronary physiology after stent implantation facilitates the optimisation of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Coronary artery disease (CAD) patterns can be characterised by the pullback pressure gradient (PPG) index. The impact of focal vs. diffuse disease on physiology-guided incremental optimisation strategy (PIOS) is unknown. This is a sub-study of the TARGET-FFR randomized clinical trial (NCT03259815). The study protocol directed that optimisation be attempted for patients in the PIOS arm when post-PCI FFR was <0.90. Overall, 114 patients (n = 61 PIOS and 53 controls) with both pre-PCI fractional flow reserve (FFR) pullbacks and post-PCI FFR were included. A PPG ≥ 0.74 defined focal CAD. The PPG correlated significantly with post-PCI FFR (r = 0.43; 95% CI 0.26 to 0.57; p-value < 0.001) and normalised delta FFR (r = 0.49; 95% CI 0.34 to 0.62; p-value < 0.001). PIOS was more frequently applied to vessels with diffuse CAD (6% focal vs. 42% diffuse; p-value = 0.006). In patients randomized to PIOS, those with focal disease achieved higher post-PCI FFR than patients with diffuse CAD (0.93 ± 0.05 vs. 0.83 ± 0.07, p < 0.001). There was a significant interaction between CAD patterns and the randomisation arm for post-PCI FFR (p-value for interaction = 0.004). Physiology-guided stent optimisation was applied more frequently to vessels with diffuse disease; however, patients with focal CAD at baseline achieved higher post-PCI FFR.

Apical Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Diagnosis, Natural History, and Management

Apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (ApHCM) represents a rare variant of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with distinct phenotypic characteristics. The prevalence of this variant varies according to each study's geographic region. The leading imaging modality for the diagnosis of ApHCM is echocardiography. Cardiac magnetic resonance, however, is the gold standard for ApHCM diagnosis in case of poor acoustic windows or equivocal echocardiographic findings but also in cases of suspected apical aneurysms. The prognosis of ApHCM was reported to be relatively benign, although more recent studies seem to contradict this, demonstrating similar incidence of adverse events compared with the general HCM population. The aim of this review is to summarize the available evidence for the diagnosis of ApHCM, highlight distinctions in comparison to more frequent forms of HCM with regards to its natural history, prognosis, and management strategies.

Mitral valve geometrical echocardiographic analysis and 3D computational modeling of a normal mitral valve

Aim: This research aims to develop a consistent computational model of a normal mitral valve (MV) and describe mitral regurgitation (MR) geometry based on Carpentier's classification. Materials & methods: MV geometry was assessed by 2D transthoracic echocardiogram in 100 individuals. A 3D parametric geometric model of the MV was developed. A computational model of a normal MV was performed. Results: The simulation of the valve function was successfully accomplished and its kinematics was analyzed. Differences in geometry were revealed between normal and type III MR. Conclusion: 3D computational models of the normal MV can be constructed relying on standard measurements performed by 2D echocardiography. Certain geometrical differences exist among the normal and the most severe type of MR.

Angina After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Patient and Procedural Predictors

BACKGROUND

Twenty percent to 40% of patients are affected by angina after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), which is associated with anxiety, depression, impaired physical function, and reduced quality of life. Understanding patient and procedural factors associated with post-PCI angina may inform alternative approaches to treatment.

METHODS

Two hundred thirty patients undergoing PCI completed the Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ-7) and European quality of life-5 dimension-5 level (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaires at baseline and 3 months post-PCI. Patients received blinded intracoronary physiology assessments before and after stenting. A post hoc analysis was performed to compare clinical and procedural characteristics among patients with and without post-PCI angina (defined by follow-up SAQ-angina frequency score <100).

RESULTS

Eighty-eight of 230 patients (38.3%) reported angina 3 months post-PCI and had a higher incidence of active smoking, atrial fibrillation, and history of previous myocardial infarction or PCI. Compared with patients with no angina at follow-up, they had lower baseline SAQ summary scores (69.48±24.12 versus 50.20±22.59, P<0.001) and EQ-5D-5L health index scores (0.84±0.15 versus 0.69±0.22, P<0.001). Pre-PCI fractional flow reserve (FFR) was lower among patients who had no post-PCI angina (0.56±0.15 versus 0.62±0.13, P=0.003). Percentage change in FFR after PCI had a moderate correlation with angina frequency score at follow-up (r=0.36, P<0.0001). Patients with post-PCI angina had less improvement in FFR (43.1±33.5% versus 67.0±50.7%, P<0.001). There were no between-group differences in post-PCI FFR, coronary flow reserve, or corrected index of microcirculatory resistance. Patients with post-PCI angina had lower SAQ-summary scores (64.01±22 versus 95.16±8.72, P≤0.001) and EQ-5D-5L index scores (0.69±0.26 versus 0.91±0.17, P≤0.001) at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Larger improvements in FFR following PCI were associated with less angina and better quality of life at follow-up. In patients with stable symptoms, intracoronary physiology assessment can inform expectations of angina relief and quality of life improvement after stenting and thereby help to determine the appropriateness of PCI.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifier: NCT03259815.

Stent Damage Associated With a Guide Catheter Extension During Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

In this difficult case of an 80-year-old woman with an acute coronary syndrome and extremely calcified and tortuous left anterior descending artery, the operators were unable to insert the stent into the distal cylinder of the Telescope after encountering strong resistance. Assuming the stent was stuck at the level of the distal cylinder entry pot, they decided to remove both the guide catheter extension (GCE) and the stent as a single unit to prevent complications. Since the first GCE was introduced in 2009, many other GCE systems have been developed and there is accumulating experience with their use. To our knowledge, this is the first description of stent damage occurring during the insertion in the distal cylinder of the Telescope GCE (Medtronic). Interventional cardiologists should always be prepared to face unexpected complications related to sophisticated devices such as GCE.

Successful off-label use of rotational atherectomy in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: A case report

Rotational atherectomy (RA) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is uncommon and its use in a thrombotic lesion is labelled a contraindication by its manufacturer due to the concern for further increase in platelet activation and aggregation by the spinning burr or distal embolization of the thrombotic material promoting no-reflow (NR). However, thrombus burden varies significantly in the STEMI setting and can be classified according to the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) thrombus grade (TG). This case demonstrates the successful off-label use of RA-assisted primary percutaneous coronary intervention to facilitate treatment of a heavily calcified ostial right coronary artery lesion with low thrombotic burden (TIMI TG 0) in an octogenarian STEMI patient. Atherectomy drug cocktails, intracoronary vasodilators, short burr runs and avoidance of rotating the burr at slower than minimum approved rotational speed contribute to atherectomy success and decrease the chances of NR.

The Interplay between Myocardial Fibrosis, Strain Imaging and Collagen Biomarkers in Adults with Repaired Tetralogy of Fallot

Background: We sought to assess the interplay between right ventricle (RV) fibrosis, biventricular dysfunction based on global longitudinal strain (GLS) analysis, and biomarkers such as Galectin-3 (Gal-3), procollagen type III (PCIII), and NTproBNP. Methods: We studied 35 adult patients with rToF. All patients underwent a cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) scan including feature tracking for deformation imaging. Blood biomarkers were measured. Results: LGE RV was detected in all patients, mainly at surgical sites. Patients with the highest RV LGE scoring had greater RV dilatation and dysfunction whereas left ventricular (LV) function was preserved. LV GLS correlated with RV total fibrosis score (p = 0.007). A LV GLS value of −15.9% predicted LGE RV score > 8 (AUC 0.754 (p = 0.02)). Neither RV GLS nor biomarker levels were correlated with the extent of RV fibrosis. A cut-off value for NTproBNP of 145.25 pg/mL predicted LGE RV score > 8 points (AUC 0.729, (p = 0.03)). A cut-off value for Gal-3 of 7.42 ng/mL predicted PR Fraction > 20% [AUC 0.704, (p = 0.05)]. Conclusions: A significant extent of RV fibrosis was mainly detected at surgical sites of RV, affecting RV performance. CMR-FT reveals subtle LV dysfunction in rToF patients, due to decreased performance of the fibrotic RV. Impaired LV function and elevated NTproBNP in rToF reflect a dysfunctional fibrotic RV.

Low-molecular-weight-heparin in radial artery occlusion treatment: the LOW-RAO randomized study

Radial artery occlusion (RAO) is the commonest complication of transradial catheterization. There is no evidence-based therapy, in the frame of a randomized control study, for the treatment of RAO. The purpose of the LOW-RAO study is to question the hypothesis if low-molecular-weight heparin is effective in the treatment of RAO after transradial coronary catheterization (both angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention). It is a prospective, open label, randomized controlled trial that will randomize 60 patients with RAO, irrespective of symptoms, into two groups, one receiving anticoagulation with low-molecular-weight heparin and the other receiving no treatment. The primary end point is improvement in radial artery patency rate at 4 weeks after the procedure. Trial registration number: NCT04196309 (ClinicalTrials.gov).

Should Percutaneous Coronary Intervention be the Standard Treatment Strategy for Significant Coronary Artery Disease in all Octogenarians?

Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of cardiovascular death in octogenarians. This group of patients represents nearly a fifth of all patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in real-world practice. Octogenarians have multiple risk factors for CAD and often greater myocardial ischemia than younger counterparts, with a potential of an increased benefit from myocardial revascularization. Despite this, octogenarians are routinely under-treated and belittled in clinical trials. Age does make a difference to PCI outcomes in older people, but it is never the sole arbiter of any clinical decision, whether in relation to the heart or any other aspect of health. The decision when to perform revascularization in elderly patients and especially in octogenarians is complex and should consider the patient on an individual basis, with clarification of the goals of the therapy and the relative risks and benefits of performing the procedure. In ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (MI), there is no upper age limit regarding urgent reperfusion and primary PCI must be the standard of care. In non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes, a strict conservative strategy must be avoided; whereas the use of a routine invasive strategy may reduce the occurrence of MI and the need for revascularization at follow-up, with no established benefit in terms of mortality. In stable CAD patients, invasive therapy on top of optimal medical therapy seems better in symptom relief and quality of life. This review summarizes the available data on percutaneous revascularization in the elderly patients and particularly in octogenarians, including practical considerations on PCI risk secondary to ageing physiology. We also analyse technical difficulties met when considering PCI in this cohort and the ongoing need for further studies to ameliorate risk stratification and eventually outcomes in these challenging patients.

Post-stenting fractional flow reserve vs coronary angiography for optimisation of percutaneous coronary intervention: TARGET-FFR trial

Aims 

A fractional flow reserve (FFR) value ≥0.90 after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with a reduced risk of adverse cardiovascular events. TARGET-FFR is an investigator-initiated, single-centre, randomized controlled trial to determine the feasibility and efficacy of a post-PCI FFR-guided optimization strategy vs. standard coronary angiography in achieving final post-PCI FFR values ≥0.90.

Methods and results 

After angiographically guided PCI, patients were randomized 1:1 to receive a physiology-guided incremental optimization strategy (PIOS) or a blinded coronary physiology assessment (control group). The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with a final post-PCI FFR ≥0.90. Final FFR ≤0.80 was a prioritized secondary outcome. A total of 260 patients were randomized (131 to PIOS, 129 to control) and 68.1% of patients had an initial post-PCI FFR <0.90. In the PIOS group, 30.5% underwent further intervention (stent post-dilation and/or additional stenting). There was no significant difference in the primary endpoint of the proportion of patients with final post-PCI FFR ≥0.90 between groups (PIOS minus control 10%, 95% confidence interval −1.84 to 21.91, P = 0.099). The proportion of patients with a final FFR ≤0.80 was significantly reduced when compared with the angiography-guided control group (−11.2%, 95% confidence interval −21.87 to −0.35], P = 0.045).

Conclusion 

Over two-thirds of patients had a physiologically suboptimal result after angiography-guided PCI. An FFR-guided optimization strategy did not significantly increase the proportion of patients with a final FFR ≥0.90, but did reduce the proportion of patients with a final FFR ≤0.80.

Shockwave coronary intravascular lithotripsy system for heavily calcified de novo lesions and the need for a cost-effectiveness analysis

The optimal management for severely calcified coronary artery disease is multi-adjunctive. Different strategies with dedicated devices should be available in the cardiac catheterization laboratory with their selection depending on the nature of the calcific disease and its anatomical distribution. Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy (S-IVL) system offers a novel option for lesion preparation of heavily calcified plaques in coronary and peripheral vessels. S-IVL is based on the fundamental principles of lithotripsy, a technology that has been used to modify renal stones for over 30 years. Pulsatile mechanical energy is used to fragment selectively amorphous calcium, sparing soft tissue. S-IVL has the potential of more widespread adoption because of its proven safety, efficacy and operational simplicity, but cost-effectiveness of such advanced technology will need to be analyzed.

Distal Transradial (Snuffbox) Access for Coronary Catheterization: A Systematic Review

Distal transradial access, through puncture of the radial artery at its course in the anatomical snuffbox, has emerged recently as an alternative approach for coronary catheterization. Several advantages of this approach seem promising and several studies are trying to elucidate its features. This review provides an overview of the snuffbox approach for coronary catheterization and summarizes the key results of the research conducted so far.

How Should I Get Prepared for and Treat Rota Burr Entrapment in a Focally Underexpanded and Restenosed Stent: A Case Report

Although high-speed rotational atherectomy has been successfully used in selected cases of stent underexpansion secondary to heavy peri-stent calcification, a higher risk of burr entrapment demands extreme caution and surgical back-up on site. The main cause of this complication is the lack of diamond dust on the back end of the burr, which prevents backward ablation of tissues when retracted. To date, only few reports of successful burr retrieval using percutaneous bailout techniques have been published. We report a case of burr entrapment within a previously implanted left circumflex artery stent which was successfully recaptured using the dual catheter technique; following the retrieval the patient underwent routine percutaneous coronary intervention.

Complete Atrioventricular Block and Permanent Pacemaker Implantation Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention to Left Anterior Descending Artery Chronic Total Occlusion

A 72-year-old male patient, with first degree atrioventricular block and LBBB on his baseline ECG, developed persistent complete atrioventricular block after recanalization of a chronic total occlusion of his left anterior descending artery (LAD) and ultimately underwent permanent pacemaker implantation. Occlusion of the second septal branch, probably supplying the right branch of the His bundle is speculated to have led to this complication. During elective intervention to the LAD territory in patients with prior conduction abnormalities on the ECG, care should be taken to preserve normal blood flow to the septal perforators. When a deterioration in septal perfusion occurs restoration of flow by wiring and balloon dilatation should be considered.

Torsades de Pointes and Prolonged Self-Terminating Ventricular Fibrillation Induced by Amiodarone

A 71-year-old man with a recent diagnosis of pneumonia developed paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and was admitted to the cardiology service. Amiodarone was administered intravenously to restore sinus rhythm. Significant prolongation of the QT interval (QTc = 640ms) was noted and an exceedingly prolonged (over 3 minutes), self-terminating, episode of ventricular flutter/fibrillation occurred during bedside monitoring. The event was terminated without first converting to a more organized ventricular rhythm and without any adverse neurological sequelae. Apart from the long duration of ventricular fibrillation and its spontaneous termination, our case highlights the importance of the continuous heart rhythm monitoring in patients with extreme QT interval prolongation.

Shockwave Intravascular Lithotripsy for the Treatment of Severe Vascular Calcification

Vascular calcification is a highly prevalent pathophenotype that is associated with aging, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. When present, it portends a worse clinical outcome and predicts major adverse cardiovascular events. Heavily calcified coronary and peripheral artery lesions are difficult to dilate appropriately with conventional balloons during percutaneous intervention, and the use of several adjunctive strategies of plaque modification has been suggested. Intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) offers a novel option for lesion preparation of severely calcified plaques in coronary and peripheral vessels. It is unique among all technologies in its ability to modify calcium circumferentially and transmurally, thus modifying transmural conduit compliance. In this article, we summarize the currently available evidence on this technology, and we highlight its best clinical application through appropriate patient and lesion selection, with the main objective of optimizing stent delivery and implantation, and subsequent improved short- and long-term outcomes. We believe that the IVL balloon will transform the market, as it is easy to use, with predictable results. However, cost-effectiveness of such advanced technology will need to be considered.

Scalenus Minimus Muscle: Overestimated or Not? An Anatomical Study

The wide range of scalenus minimus muscle incidence reported in the literature along with the plethora of fibromuscular structures that may appear in the interscalene triangle, having various terminologies, were the reasons to conduct the present study questioning the reported high incidence of this supernumerary scalene muscle. Seventy-three Greek cadavers were dissected and examined for the presence of a scalenus minimus muscle. It was found unilaterally in three of 73 (4.11%) cadavers studied. The literature review, concerning its incidence, revealed a wide range between 7.8 and 71.7 per cent, which cannot be attributed only to racial variation. Thus, there is a matter whether other variations of the scalene muscles are considered as a true scalenus minimus muscle. Recognition of this muscle is important not only for anatomists, but also has clinical significance for the diagnosis of the thoracic outlet syndrome. Surgeons performing scalenectomy and anesthesiologists during interscalene brachial plexus block should keep in mind the anatomical variations of this region.

Correlation of miR-146a-5p plasma levels and rs2910164 polymorphism with left ventricle outflow tract obstruction in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

OBJECTIVE

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disease of the myocardium that is characterized by phenotypic variability among patients. miR-146a is a small non-coding RNA that is well known for its role in inflammation and myocardial hypertrophy. The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of miR-146a as a candidate genetic factor influencing HCM phenotype.

METHODS

In this study, 140 HCM patients and 112 control individuals were genotyped for the rs2910164 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the MIR146A gene; using this data, the correlation between different genotypes and clinical features of the disease were determined. Additionally, plasma levels of miR-146a-5p were determined in 50 HCM patients and 30 control individuals by using qPCR.

RESULTS

The incidence of GC and CC genotypes were significantly lower in HCM patients (odds ratio (OR) = 0.5 [0.3-0.8], p = 0.007). The GC/CC genotypes in the dominant genetic model positively correlated with the presence of left ventricle outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction (OR = 2.3 [1.2-4.7] and p = 0.018), a higher left ventricle mass index (118 ± 47 g/m² vs 92 ± 42 g/m² and p = 0.02), and increased left ventricle end-diastolic diameter (4.66 ± 0.64cm vs 4.39 ± 0.7cm and p = 0.026). Atrial fibrillation was significantly higher in patients homozygous for the C allele (OR = 10.6 [2-55], p = 0.003). Interestingly, the plasma levels of miR-146a-5p were significantly increased in HCM patients with LVOT obstruction.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that the C allele of the rs2910164 SNP might be under negative selection in HCM patients. Additionally, plasma levels of miR-146a-5p and GC/CC genotypes are indicative of the obstructive phenotype in HCM patients.

Application of 17 Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Risk Prediction Models

INTRODUCTION

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a frequent complication of percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Various groups have developed and validated risk scores for CI-AKI. Although the majority of these risk scores achieve an adequate accuracy, their usability in clinical practice is limited and greatly debated.

OBJECTIVE

With the present study, we aimed to prospectively assess the diagnostic performance of recently published CI-AKI risk scores (up to 2018) in a cohort of patients undergoing PCI.

METHODS

We enrolled 1,247 consecutive patients (80% men, mean age 62 ± 10 years) treated with elective or urgent PCI. For each patient, we calculated the individual CI-AKI risk score based on 17 different risk models. CI-AKI was defined as an increase of ≥25% (liberal) or ≥0.5 mg/dL (strict) in pre-PCI serum creatinine 48 h after PCI.

RESULTS

CI-AKI definition and, therefore, CI-AKI incidence have a significant impact on risk model performance (median negative predictive value increased from 85 to 99%; median c-statistic increased from 0.516 to 0.603 using more strict definition criteria). All of the 17 published models were characterized by a weak-to-moderate discriminating ability mainly based on the identification of "true-negative" cases (median positive predictive value 19% with liberal criterion and 3% with strict criterion). In none of the models, c-statistic was >0.800 with either CI-AKI definition. Novel, different combinations of the >35 independent variables used in the published models either by down- or by up-scaling did not result in significant improvement in predictive performance.

CONCLUSIONS

The predictive ability of all models was similar and only modest, derived mainly by identifying true-negative cases. A new approach is probably needed by adding novel markers or periprocedural characteristics.

Manual Radial Artery Compression After Transradial Coronary Procedures: Is It Safe to Go Bare-Handed?

Although the superiority of manual compression of the radial, mainly due to its selectivity and progressive grading, had been hypothesized from the early days of the transradial use, data on efficacy and safety of this method are only scarce. This review tries to delineate the aspects of manual hemostasis in transradial catheterization. Current data demonstrate that manual compression of the radial artery is a possible (second line) hemostatic option in transradial catheterization with main advantage the shorter hemostasis duration, and major disadvantage the need for larger involvement of post-procedural care team in hemostasis. Manual compression of the radial artery is a possible (second line) hemostatic option with main advantage the shorter hemostasis duration, and major disadvantages the need for larger involvement of post-procedural care team in hemostasis.

Manual Versus Mechanical Compression of the Radial Artery After Transradial Coronary Angiography: The MEMORY Multicenter Randomized Trial

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to compare manual versus mechanical compression of the radial artery after coronary angiography via transradial access regarding radial artery occlusion (RAO), access-site bleeding complications, and duration of hemostasis.

BACKGROUND

Hemostasis of the radial artery after sheath removal can be achieved either by manual compression at the puncture site or by using a mechanical hemostasis device. Because mechanical compression exerts a more stable, continuous pressure on the artery, it could be hypothesized that it is more effective compared with manual compression regarding hemostasis time, bleeding, and RAO risks.

METHODS

A total of 589 patients undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography by transradial access with a 5-F sheath were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either manual or mechanical patent hemostasis of the radial artery. Radial artery patency was evaluated by color duplex ultrasonography 24 h after the procedure. The primary endpoint was early RAO at 24 h. Secondary endpoints included access-site bleeding complications and duration of hemostasis.

RESULTS

Thirty-six (12%) early RAOs occurred in the manual group, and 24 (8%) occurred in the mechanical group (p = 0.176). There were no significant differences between the 2 groups regarding access-site bleeding complications (hematoma, 52 [17%] vs. 50 [18%]; p = 0.749; bleedings, 8 [3%] vs. 9 [3%]; p = 1.000). Duration of hemostasis was significantly shorter in the manual group (22 ± 34 min vs. 119 ± 72 min with mechanical compression; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Manual and mechanical compression resulted in similar rates of early RAO, although the total duration of hemostasis was significantly shorter in the manual group.

GUT Microbiome-GUT Dysbiosis-Arterial Hypertension: New Horizons

Arterial hypertension is a progressive cardiovascular syndrome arising from complex and interrelated etiologies. The human microbiome refers to the community of microorganisms that live in or on the human body. They influence human physiology by interfering in several processes such as providing nutrients and vitamins in Phase I and Phase II drug metabolism. The human gut microbiota is represented mainly by Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes and to a lesser degree by Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria, with each individual harbouring at least 160 such species. Gut microbiota contributes to blood pressure homeostasis and the pathogenesis of arterial hypertension through production, modification, and degradation of a variety of microbial-derived bioactive metabolites. Animal studies and to a lesser degree human research has unmasked relative mechanisms, mainly through the effect of certain microbiome metabolites and their receptors, outlining this relationship. Interventions to utilize these pathways, with probiotics, prebiotics, antibiotics and fecal microbiome transplantation have shown promising results. Personalized microbiome-based disease prediction and treatment responsiveness seem futuristic. Undoubtedly, a long way of experimental and clinical research should be pursued to elucidate this novel, intriguing and very promising horizon.