Association between Doppler assessment and secondary cesarean delivery for intrapartum fetal compromise in small-for-gestational-age fetuses

PURPOSE

To elucidate the association between arterial and venous Doppler ultrasound parameters and the risk of secondary cesarean delivery for intrapartum fetal compromise (IFC) and neonatal acidosis in small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetuses.

METHODS

This single-center, prospective, blinded, cohort study included singleton pregnancies with an estimated fetal weight (EFW) < 10th centile above 36 gestational weeks. Upon study inclusion, all women underwent Doppler ultrasound, including umbilical artery (UA) pulsatility index (PI), middle cerebral artery (MCA) PI, fetal aortic isthmus (AoI) PI, umbilical vein blood flow (UVBF), and modified myocardial performance index (mod-MPI). Primary outcome was defined as secondary cesarean section due to IFC.

RESULTS

In total, 87 SGA pregnancies were included, 16% of which required a cesarean section for IFC. Those fetuses revealed lower UVBF corrected for abdominal circumference (AC) (5.2 (4.5-6.3) vs 7.2 (5.5-8.3), p = 0.001). There was no difference when comparing AoI PI, UA PI, ACM PI, or mod-MPI. No association was found for neonatal acidosis. After multivariate logistic regression, UVBF/AC remained independently associated with cesarean section due to IFC (aOR 0.61 [0.37; 0.91], p = 0.03) and yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.78 (95% CI, 0.67-0.89). A cut-off value set at the 50th centile of UVBF/AC reached a sensitivity of 86% and specificity of 58% for the occurrence of cesarean section due to IFC (OR 8.1; 95% CI, 1.7-37.8, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Low levels of umbilical vein blood flow (UVBF/AC) were associated with an increased risk among SGA fetuses to be delivered by cesarean section for IFC.

Fetal Echocardiographic Evaluation of Tricuspid Valve and Right Ventricular Function Including Global Longitudinal Strain in Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and Association with Postnatal Outcomes

Despite significant advancements in the care of patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) morbidity and mortality remain high. Postnatal right ventricular dysfunction and tricuspid regurgitation (TR) are associated with worse outcomes in HLHS. We aim to determine if right ventricle functional parameters and TR on fetal echocardiogram are associated with postnatal outcomes in HLHS patients. Retrospective review was performed on all fetuses with HLHS from 2014 to 2022 at our institution. Initial and follow up fetal echocardiogram measurements of right ventricular myocardial performance index (MPI), fractional area change (FAC) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were retrospectively measured. The presence and severity of TR was recorded from the fetal echocardiogram reports. Postnatal outcomes including transplant-free survival, hospital length of stay > 30 days after initial palliation and need for bidirectional Glenn at < 4 months were reviewed. Forty-three subjects met inclusion criteria. Mean gestational age at presentation was 26.1 ± 5.9 weeks. Nine subjects died and 3 required heart transplantation. Initial fetal echocardiogram MPI was significantly lower (better) (0.36 ± 0.06 vs 0.44 ± 0.11; p =  < 0.001) and FAC was significantly higher (better) (45 ± 6% vs 40 ± 8%; p = 0.035) in transplant-free survivors. Fetal right ventricular GLS and presence of mild TR were not associated with postnatal outcome. In fetuses with HLHS, abnormal MPI and right ventricular FAC are associated with decreased transplant-free survival. There was no observed association between GLS and postnatal outcomes. To our knowledge this is the first study examining fetal right ventricular function and GLS in HLHS patients and its link to postnatal outcomes.

Changes in cardiac functions in patients treated with parathyroidectomy for secondary hyperparathyroidism

Our study aims to investigate the changes in cardiac functions, especially myocardial performance index (MPI), in patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for secondary hyperparathyroidism. Patients who underwent parathyroidectomy for secondary hyperparathyroidism between June 2010 and September 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. The patients were divided into two groups: those who underwent total parathyroidectomy (group 1) and those who underwent subtotal parathyroidectomy (group 2). The groups were compared according to the echocardiogram findings performed in the preoperative period and the postoperative sixth month. In addition, cardiac structure, and systolic and diastolic functions, especially myocardial performance index, were evaluated by echocardiography and Doppler imaging. Thirty-seven patients were examined; 16 (43.2%) underwent total parathyroidectomy, and 21 (56.8%) had subtotal parathyroidectomy performed. Group 1's mean left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVES) decreased from 2.53 ± 0.57 to 2.35 ± 0.37 cm after parathyroidectomy. In Group 1, the postoperative value of LVES and end-systolic volume decreased significantly compared to the preoperative period (p = 0.042, p = 0.008, respectively). EF increased from 59.25 ± 0.05 to 67.81 ± 4.04. In Group 1, EF and EV postoperatively increased significantly compared to the preoperative period (p = 0.023, p = 0.021, respectively). The mean MPI decreased from 0.45 ± 0.07 to 0.39 ± 0.04 after parathyroidectomy in group 1. In group 2, it decreased from 0.46 ± 0.06 to 0.40 ± 0.04 (p < 0.001). The present study provides an improvement in myocardial functions after parathyroidectomy. While LVES, EF, ejection volume, end-systolic volume, and MPI improved in both groups, the MPI improvement was more evident in the total parathyroidectomy group.

Impact of overweight and obesity in the fetal cardiac function parameters in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of overweight and obesity in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy on fetal cardiac function parameters.

METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study of 374 singleton pregnant women between 20w0d and 36w6d divided into three groups: 154 controls (body mass index - BMI < 25 kg/m2), 140 overweight (BMI 25-30 kg/m2) and 80 obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). Fetal left ventricular (LV) modified myocardial performance index (Mod-MPI) was calculated according to the following formula: (isovolumetric contraction time + isovolumetric relaxation time)/ejection time. Spectral tissue Doppler was used to determine LV and right ventricular (RV) myocardial performance index (MPI'), peak myocardial velocity during systole (S'), early diastole (E'), and late diastole (A').

RESULTS

We found significant differences between the groups in maternal age (p < 0.001), maternal weight (p < 0.001), BMI (p < 0.001), number of pregnancies (p < 0.001), parity (p < 0.001), gestational age (p = 0.013), and estimated fetal weight (p = 0.003). Overweight pregnant women had higher LV Mod-MPI (0.046 versus 0.044 seconds, p = 0.009) and LV MPI' (0.50 versus 0.47 seconds, p < 0.001) than the control group. Obese pregnant women had higher RV E' than control (6.82 versus 6.33 cm/sec, p = 0.008) and overweight (6.82 versus 6.46 cm/sec, p = 0.047) groups. There were no differences in 5-min APGAR score < 7, neonatal intensive care unit admission, hypoglycemia and hyperglobulinemia between the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed fetal myocardial dysfunction in overweight and obese pregnant women with higher LV Mod-MPI, LV MPI' and RV E' compared to fetuses from normal weight pregnant women.

Relationship between presystolic wave and subclinical left ventricular dysfunction as assessed by myocardial performance index in patients with metabolic syndrome

The myocardial performance index (MPI) is an index that shows both systolic and diastolic functions of the ventricle. Presystolic wave (PSW) is a late diastolic wave encountered in the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) and is associated with increased left ventricular stiffness and decreased left ventricular compliance. In our study, MPI was compared between patients with metabolic syndrome and normal patients, and we also investigated whether PSW could predict subclinical left ventricular dysfunction (SCLVD) in patients with metabolic syndrome. A total of 119 patients, 59 with metabolic syndrome and 60 healthy volunteers, were included in our study. Our study is a two-center prospective study. The patient groups were compared in terms of demographic, laboratory and echocardiographic parameters. Univariate and multivariate regression analyzes were performed to detect predictors of SCLVD. Higher MPI and PSW were found in patients with metabolic syndrome compared to the normal population (0.56 ± 0.11 vs. 0.46 ± 0.07, p < 0.001, 34 (57.6%) vs. 19 (31.7%), p = 0.004, respectively). MPI was found to be higher in patients with metabolic syndrome with PSW ( +) (0.59 ± 0.13 vs. 0.52 ± 0.05, p = 0.005). Smoking and PSW were found as Independent Predictors of Subclinical Left Ventricular Dysfunction in the Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis Model (OR 0.146, 95%CI 0.028-0.767, p = 0.023 and OR 10.689, 95%CI 2.176-52.515, p = 0.004, respectively). Higher MPI and SCLVD were detected in patients with metabolic syndrome compared to the normal population. In addition, PSW positivity was associated with SCLVD in this patient group.

Evaluation of cardiac fibrosis and subclinical cardiac changes in children with sickle cell disease using magnetic resonance imaging, echocardiography, and serum galectin-3

BACKGROUND

Myocardial fibrosis has recently been proposed as one of the contributing factors to the diverse pathogenicity of cardiomyopathy in sickle cell disease.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, cardiac fibrosis and subclinical cardiac changes in children with sickle cell disease were evaluated using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), tissue Doppler echocardiography and serum galectin-3.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 34 children with sickle cell disease who were compared with a similar number of healthy controls. Cardiac MRI was used to evaluate late gadolinium enhancement, native T1 mapping, extracellular volume, and T2* for estimation of iron load. Cardiac function and myocardial performance index (MPI, evaluated by tissue Doppler echocardiography) and serum galectin-3 were compared to controls.

RESULTS

The mean age of the included patients was 13.3 ± 3.2 years. Myocardial iron load by T2* was normal. The mean level of extracellular volume (35.41 ± 5.02%) was significantly associated with the frequency of vaso-occlusive crises (P = 0.017) and negatively correlated with hemoglobin levels (P = 0.005). Galectin-3 levels were significantly higher among cases than controls (P = 0.00), at a cutoff value on the receiver operating characteristic curve of 6.5 ng/ml, sensitivity of 82.5% and specificity of 72.8%. The extracellular volume was significantly higher in cases, with a MPI > 0.4.

CONCLUSION

Diffuse interstitial myocardial fibrosis can be detected early in children with sickle cell disease using T1 mapping and is associated with a high frequency of vaso-occlusive crisis. MPI of the left ventricle and serum galectin-3 are recommended screening tools for subclinical cardiac abnormalities.

Fetal Doppler in monochorionic pregnancies complicated by twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome and selective in utero growth restriction

BACKGROUND

Monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancies may be complicated by placental pathologies that impact fetal cardiac function, such as twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and selective intrauterine growth-restriction (sIUGR). In the TTTS, the unbalanced blood flow through placental anastomoses lead a recipient volume overload, hypertension and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and the donor twin experiences hypovolemia and hypertension due to increased placental resistance and poor renal perfusion. When MC pregnancies were complicated by sIUGR, the increase of placental resistances lead to complex fetal compensatory mechanisms with redistribution of cardiac output to vital organs. Increased placental vascular resistances, hypoxia and hemodynamic compensation mechanisms lead to higher pre and/or afterload for both ventricles, right cardiac failure and eventually left cardiac failure observed just before fetal death.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to describe the anomalies of umbilical, ductal and aortic isthmic Doppler as well as left and right myocardial performance index (MPI) across various clinical phenotypes of MC twin pregnancies, uncomplicated or complicated by TTTS or sIUGR, in order to help differentiating these conditions and to improve the understanding of TTTS and sIUGR pathophysiology.

STUDY DESIGN

Aortic isthmic systolic index (ISI), umbilical artery pulsatility index (UAPI), ductus venosus pulsatility index (DVPI), and MPI were studied in uncomplicated MC twins (control group) and cases of sIUGR or TTTS.

RESULTS

The measurements were obtained in 113 pregnancies (24 uncomplicated, 22 sIUGR, 51 TTTS). In comparison with controls, the sIUGR smaller twin sets had lower ISI and higher UAPI, and the larger twin had higher ISI. The TTTS donor and recipient had lower ISI, higher UAPI and DVPI. Compared to the co-twin, the ISI values were lower in the sIUGR smaller twin and the TTTS donor had lower ISI and MPI. Comparing TTTS and sIUGR, the recipient had higher DVPI and MPI than the sIUGR larger twin.

CONCLUSIONS

The Doppler anomalies observed in the smaller twin reflected increased placental blood flow resistance, presumably due to abnormal feto-fetal transfusion in TTTS and to unequal placental sharing in sIUGR. Early hemodynamic changes suggestive of cardiac overload in the recipient twin may help to differentiate TTTS and sIUGR.

Fetal echocardiographic parameters in pregnancies complicated by diabetes: a case control study

Background

At present, the prevalence of pregestational diabetes is 2.2% with an overall prevalence of hyperglycaemia in pregnancy of about 16.2%. Fetuses of diabetic mothers are at risk of functional cardiac abnormalities without structural cardiac anomalies especially in the third trimester. The main aim of this study was to assess the association of diabetes with different fetal echocardiographic parameters.

Methods

A case control study comprising a total of 120 pregnant women (60 cases and 60 controls). The cases group included fetuses of mothers known to have pre-gestational type 2 diabetes (DM group) while the control group included fetuses of euglycaemic healthy pregnant women. They were examined twice at 23–24 weeks' gestation (visit 1) and followed up at 27–28 weeks’ gestation (visit 2). The Modified Myocardial Performance Index (Mod MPI) was obtained in all fetuses. Also, M-mode echocardiography was used to measure the interventricular septum thickness at diastole in a transverse four chamber view.

Results

There was a significant increase in Iso-volumetric contraction time (ICT) (45.4 ms ± 8.9), Iso-volumetric relaxation time (IRT) (54.7 ms ± 11.22), Interventricular septal thickness (IVST) (4.08 mm ± 0.8), aortic acceleration time (AAT) (54.16 ms ± 12.77) and MPI (0.64 ± 0.09) in the diabetic group compared to the normal control group ICT (38.5 ms ± 9.59), IRT (46.13 ms ± 10.29), IVST (3.17 mm ± 0.6), AAT (49.73 ms ± 10.68) and MPI (0.5 ± 0.1) (all P values were < 0.001).

When comparing parameters assessed at both visits among diabetic patients, there was a significant increase in IVST in the second visit (4.74 ± 0.78 mm) compared to the first visit (4.08 ± 0.8 mm) (P value < 0.05).

The incidence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) was significantly higher in diabetic patients than in the control group. This is was observed in both first and second visit (33.4% and 56.7%) (P value < 0.001).

Conclusions

Fetuses of diabetic pregnant females show a significant increase in MPI, decrease in E\A ratio and HCM. These alterations in cardiac functions and structure were found to be continuous throughout the period of time between the two visits.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-04969-5.

Cardiac functions in children with growth hormone deficiency: Effects of one year of GH replacement therapy

INTRODUCTION

Children with Growth Hormone deficiency (GHD) are prone to heart dysfunction and, if left untreated, will result in marked cardiac dysfunction in adulthood. The aim was to evaluate the effect of GHD and growth hormone (GH) therapy on cardiac structure in children and adolescents, and to investigate the role of insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in this.

METHODS

M-mode, pulse-wave Doppler echocardiography and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) were performed in 49 children with GHD who were divided into those with a peak GH response < 7 μg/L and 7-10 μg/L after two GH stimulation tests, aged 8-16 years at baseline and at six and 12 months after GH initiation, and 49 healthy peers. IGF-1 concentration was measured.

RESULTS

Although the left ventricular end diastolic and systolic diameters in both GH deficient groups were significantly lower than controls (p < 0.01), both diameters increased significantly with one year of treatment and achieved normal values (p > 0.05). Using TDI in both two patients group revealed increased E/A, prolonged isovolumic relaxation time, shortened ejection time, and a significant increase in myocardial performance index compared to controls (p < 0.001). Significant improvement was observed in these parameters from the sixth month of GH treatment (p < 0.001), this improvement does not match parameters measured in healthy peers, even after one year of treatment in both patients group. (p < 0.001). No correlation was found between IGF-1 concentration and any echocardiographic parameter.

CONCLUSION

Echocardiographic parameters were similar in children with a GH peak < 7 μg/L and 7-10 μg/L. In TDI, both systolic and diastolic function was impaired in GHD children compared to controls. These parameters improved after one year of GH therapy but did not recover to healthy control levels.

Evaluation of right side foetal myocardial performance index in pregestational and gestational diabetes mellitus

The aim of our study is to investigate the myocardial performance index (MPI) of the right side of the foetal heart in pregestational and gestational diabetes mellitus and to compare it with non-diabetic pregnancies. This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2018 and March 2019 at Kanuni Sultan Suleyman Research and Training Hospital. Women with pregestational or gestational diabetes mellitus at 24-34 weeks of gestation were included in the study and non-diabetic pregnant women were included as the control group. MPI of the right side of the foetal heart were evaluated and compared between the groups. A total of 65 pregestational or gestational diabetic patients and 65 non-diabetic patients were included in the study. Isovolumetric contraction time and isovolumetric relaxation time values were significantly longer in the diabetic group (p < .001). Ejection time values were significantly shorter in the diabetic group (p < .001). MPI values were significantly higher in the diabetic group than the non-diabetic group (p < .001). In conclusion, MPI of the right side of the foetal heart is significantly higher in pregestational and gestational diabetes than in the non-diabetic group.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Gestational diabetes mellitus causes foetal cardiomyopathy and foetal diastolic dysfunction. Myocardial performance index (MPI) is a non-invasive, Doppler-derived myocardial performance assessment that is independent of both heart rate and ventricular anatomy.What do the results of this study add? MPI of the right side of the foetal heart was significantly higher in pregestational and gestational diabetes than in the non-diabetic group. There was no difference in right ventricular MPI between pregestational and gestational groups in diabetic pregnancies, and between insulin using and not insulin using groups.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Our study results are promising. MPI of the right side of the foetal heart is significantly higher in pregestational and gestational diabetes than in the non-diabetic group. Prospective cohort studies evaluating serial MPI and evaluating by postpartum foetal echocardiography are needed to evaluate possible adverse effects of diabetes on foetal cardiac functions.

Kidney function and the prognostic value of myocardial performance index

A decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease even after adjustment for conventional risk factors. The myocardial performance index (MPI) is defined as (isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRT) + isovolumetric contraction time (IVCT))/ejection time (ET). It has been shown to be an independent predictor of cardiovascular events. We hypothesized the MPI could prove valuable for assessing cardiac risk in subjects of the general population with decreased estimated GFR (eGFR). MPI was measured in 1915 subjects from a large general population prospective cohort study using color tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) M-mode through the mitral valve. We compared the prognostic capabilities of the MPI between subjects with eGFR ≥ 75 mL/min/1.73 m² and subjects with eGFR < 75 mL/min/1.73 m² using multivariable adjusted Cox regression models. The composite endpoint was heart failure, myocardial infarction or cardiovascular death. Mean age was 58 years (SD 16.2), 58% were women, 42% had hypertension and 8.3% diabetes. During a median follow-up time of 12.4 years [IQR 10.6-12.7 years] 269 participants reached the combined endpoint. eGFR modified the prognostic capability of MPI (p-value for interaction < 0.001): After multivariable adjustment, MPI remained an independent predictor of the composite endpoint only in participants with eGFR < 75 mL/min/1.73 m²: HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.02-1.38), p = 0.03, vs. in subjects with eGFR ≥ 75 mL/min/1.73 m²: HR 1.14 (95% CI 0.94-1.39), p = 0.17. These results suggest the MPI could be particularly valuable for identifying elevated cardiac risk in individuals from the general population with decreased eGFR.

Effect of septoplasty on left ventricular myocardial performance in patients with nasal septum deviation

Introduction

Nasal septum deviation is the leading cause of upper airway obstruction. Chronic upper airway obstruction may cause myocardial injury due to chronic hypoxia. Effects of septoplasty on left venticular diastolic and sistolic functions are not well known. The myocardial performance index is an easy-to-apply and reliable parameter that reflects systolic and diastolic cardiac functions.

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of nasal septoplasty on the myocardial performance index in patients with nasal septal deviation.

Methods

This prospective study consisted of 50 consecutive patients who underwent septoplasty due to symptomatic prominent C- or S-shaped nasal septal deviation. Transthoracic echocardiogarphy was performed in all patients before and 3 months after septoplasty. Calculated myocardial performance indices were compared.

Results

Significantly higher left ventricular myocardial performance index (0.52 ± 0.06 vs. 0.41 ± 0.04, p <  0.001), longer isovolumic relaxation time (95.0 ± 12.5 vs. 78.0 ± 8.6 ms, p <  0.001), longer isovolumic contraction time (45.5 ± 7.8 vs. 39.5 ± 8.6 ms, p <  0.001), longer deceleration time (184.3 ± 32.5 vs. 163.6 ± 45.4 ms, p =  0.004), higher ratio of transmitral early to late peak velocities (E/A) (1.42 ± 0.4 vs. 1.16 ± 0.2, p =  0.006) and shorter ejection time (270.1 ± 18.3 vs. 286.5 ± 25.8 ms, p <  0.001) were observed before septoplasty when compared to values obtained 3 months after septoplasty. Left ventricular systolic ejection fraction was similar before and after septoplasty (63.8±2.8% vs. 64.6±3.2%, p  = 0.224).

Conclusion

Septoplasty surgery not only reduces nasal blockage symptoms in nasal septal deviation patients but also may improve left ventricular performance. Thus, treatment of nasal septal deviation without delay is suggested to prevent possible future cardiovascular events.

Fetal left ventricular modified myocardial performance index and renal artery pulsatility index in pregnancies with isolated oligohydramnios before 37 weeks of gestation

Objective

We aimed to evaluate fetal left modified myocardial performance index and renal artery Doppler parameter in fetuses with isolated oligohydramnios and normal amount of amniotic fluid.

Material and Methods

In a prospective cohort study, 25 pregnancies with isolated oligohydramnios and 25 healthy gestational age matched controls between 24+0 to 36+6 weeks of gestation were recruited. Primary outcome was to compare left modified myocardial performance index and mean fetal renal artery PI and secondary outcome was to compare adverse perinatal outcomes between the groups.

Results

Mean modified myocardial performance index was significantly higher and isovolumetric relaxation time was longer in the isolated oligohydramnios group (p=0.001, p=0.009). Mean renal artery PI values were not different between the groups. Birthweight and gestational age at birth were significantly lower (p=0.041, p=0.001), and incidences of delivery before 37 weeks and Cesarean section due to non-reassuring fetal heart rate testing were significantly higher (p=0.034, p=0.021) in women with isolated oligohydramnios than the control group. We found no significant relationship between modified myocardial performance index and adverse perinatal outcomes.

Conclusion

Fetuses with isolated oligohydramnios have increased left modified myocardial performance index which may be due to mild cardiac diastolic dysfunction. Increased modified myocardial performance index is not associated with adverse perinatal outcomes and does not seem to help in the management of pregnancies before 37 weeks of gestation with isolated oligohydramnios.

Left and right ventricular speckle tracking study before and after percutaneous atrial septal defect closure in children

Objectives

To analyze the acute and short-term deformation changes of both right (RV) and left (LV) ventricular wall before and after transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect (ASD) secundum in children.

Outcome measures

To determine the feasibility of tissue Doppler and myocardial deformation imaging for evaluating RV and LV functions in children undergoing transcatheter ASD closure.

Patients and methods

A prospective study was performed for 32 children with hemodynamic significant ASD secundum before and 6 months after percutaneous ASD closure in the Pediatric Cardiology Division of Specialized Pediatric Hospital, Cairo University. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) of LV and RV global analysis (longitudinal and circumferential strain) before and after ASD transcatheter closure was performed.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 6.01 ± 3.19 (range: 3–9) years with a female to male ratio of 1.3:1. There was an improvement in the RV and LV myocardial performance index (MPI) 6 months post-ASD closure (RVMPI = 0.46 ± 0.069 vs. 0.38 ± 0.05, p < 0.0001; LVMPI = 0.49 ± 0.12 vs. 0.38 ± 0.08, p < 0.0001, respectively). By 2D STE, there was a significant improvement in the RV global longitudinal strain (GLS) 6 months post-ASD closure (−20.17 ± 3.14% vs. −25.86 ± 5.02%, p < 0.0001). There was a significant increase in the LV end-diastolic volume (EDV) and LV end-systolic volume (ESV) using 4D STE after device closure (LVEDV = 32.96 ± 10.99 mL vs. 44.024 ± 14.9017 mL, p < 0.0001; LVESV = 15.16 ± 6.08 mL vs. 21.76 ± 8.34 mL, p < 0.0001, respectively). Additionally, there was a significant improvement in the LV GLS after device occlusion (−19.17 ± 3.67% vs. −22.36 ± 4.72%, p = 0.009) using 4D TomTec software. There was a significant decrease in the RVEDV (54.65 ± 10.05 mL vs. 15.73 ± 8.67 mL) and RV stroke volume (25.15 ± 6.36 vs. 20.06 ± 7.2) after device occlusion using 4D TomTec software.

Conclusion

By using 4D STE, the LV GLS was significantly improved; in contrast, by 2D STE, the RV volume overload decreased and the RV GLS was improved on short term after transcatheter ASD secundum closure in children.

Impact of type I and type II maternal diabetes mellitus on fetal cardiac function assessment parameters using spectral and tissue Doppler

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of pregestational diabetes mellitus (DM) on fetal cardiac function two-dimensional parameters using spectral and tissue Doppler. Pregnant women between 20 and 36 + 6 weeks gestation were divided into three groups: controls, type I DM, and type II DM. The right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle (LV) annular velocity peaks were measured using spectral (E, A) and tissue (E', A', S') Doppler. The myocardial performance index was calculated as (isovolumetric contraction time [ICT] + isovolumetric relaxation time [IRT])/ejection time using tissue (MPI') and the spectral Doppler (MPI). A general linear model, with fetal heart rate as a covariant, was used to evaluate the effect of DM on the fetal heart function assessment parameters. To assess the association of type I and II DM with adverse perinatal outcomes, Fisher's exact test was used. A receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the best cutoff for fetal cardiac function assessment parameters to identify the neonatal composite outcomes. The sample comprised 179 pregnant women. DM had significant effect on RV and LV A peak velocities (p = 0.026 and p = 0.011, respectively). LV ICT (p < 0.001) and LV MPI (p < 0.001) were significantly affected by maternal DM. Fetuses from pregnant women with type II DM showed significantly higher LV MPI (0.492 vs. 0.459, p = 0.006) and RV S' (7.2 vs. 6.44 cm/s, p = 0.024) than controls. Fetuses from type I DM pregnant women showed increase in cardiac parameters that evaluated the LV and RV diastolic function (LV IRT' p < 0.001 and RV MPI' p = 0.044). Type I and II DM were associated with adverse perinatal outcomes: neonatal intensive care unit stay (p < 0.0001), macrosomia (p < 0.0001), hyperbilirubinemia (p < 0.0001), and hypoglycemia (p < 0.0001). The LV MPI' showed significant but moderate sensitivity in identifying the composite neonatal outcomes (AUC: 0.709, 95% CI 0.629-0.780, p < 0.001). Tissue Doppler and MPI parameters can be useful to detect subclinical cardiac dysfunction in the fetal heart of pregestational DM pregnant women.

Cardiac Doppler in poorly controlled gestational diabetics and its link to markers of intra-uterine hypoxia and adverse outcome

The aim of the study was to investigate foetal cardiac function using the modified myocardial performance index (Mod-MPI) in poorly controlled gestational diabetics and its link with intrauterine markers for hypoxia and to an adverse outcome. In a prospective, cross sectional study, 44 consecutive women with severe or poorly controlled gestational diabetic pregnancies in their third trimester on insulin therapy were recruited and matched with 44 women with normal pregnancies which served as the control group. Using Doppler echocardiography the foetal Mod-MPI was calculated. The foetal Mod-MPI was significantly higher in the diabetic group compared to the controls indicating significant myocardial dysfunction. The Mod-MPI served as an excellent marker of adverse outcomes. Foetal myocardial function was significantly impaired in poorly controlled gestational diabetics and there was a significant link of Mod-MPI to intrauterine markers of hypoxia, as well as to an adverse outcome. Mod-MPI has the potential to improve foetal surveillance in gestational diabetes.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Abnormal foetal cardiac function, as reflected in the modified myocardial performance index, has been reported to be significantly increased in foetuses of poorly controlled diabetics managed on insulin.What do the results of this study add? There is a significant link between abnormal foetal cardiac function to intrauterine markers of hypoxia, as well as to an adverse outcome; and that development of myocardial dysfunction could be one of the main mechanisms, inducing foetal compromise in poorly controlled gestational diabetes.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? This study explores an interesting concept of foetal pathophysiology in gestational diabetes, namely the concept of "pseudo-hypoxia" in a foetus of a gestational diabetic mother, and this intrauterine "hypoxic stress" in turn leading to myocardial dysfunction. The Mod-MPI, a clinical marker for cardiac dysfunction, can therefore be used in the clinical setting to track a deteriorating metabolic state.

Application of a combination of echocardiographic techniques in an experimental model of epirubicin-induced cardiotoxicity

This study compared the potential ability of multinomial echocardiographic parameters in early detection, prediction and combined diagnosis of antineoplastic-related cardiotoxicity. Male Balb/c mice were repeatedly administered with low doses of epirubicin (6 × 3 mg/kg; n = 20) to induce cardiac injury or with placebo as control (n = 10). Conventional and strain parameters as well as myocardial performance index (MPI) were analyzed at baseline, 1 day after the second, fourth and sixth cycle, and 12 days after completion of chemotherapy (as follow-up) by a high-resolution rodent ultrasound machine. After the experiment, serum cTnI levels were measured, and myocardial injury was evaluated by histological analyses. Thirteen mice developed cardiotoxicity after epirubicin exposure. Global longitudinal (GLS), radial strain (GRS) and longitudinal strain rate (LSR) were markedly decreased (all P ≤ 0.01) and MPI was increased (P ≤ 0.05) at the completion of treatment compared with baseline values. GLS expressed the best correlations with myocardial pathological injury, especially with collagen content (ρ = - 0.68, P < 0.01). Additionally, GLS and MPI were associated with serum cTnI levels. A > 9.5% decrease in GLS from baseline to the fourth cycle of chemotherapy could predict future cardiotoxicity (odds ratio = 0.331, P < 0.05). GLS (cutoff value, - 15.16%) combined with MPI (cutoff value, 0.64) could improve the accuracy of diagnosing cardiotoxicity (sensitivity, 92%; specificity, 87%). GLS was the only predictor of cardiotoxicity. GLS combined with MPI may provide a noninvasive and accurate method for the early detection of cardiotoxicity.

Cardiac changes in children hospitalized with severe acute malnutrition: A prospective study at tertiary care center of northern India

Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) may affect cardiac structure and function. Cardiac changes in sick children with SAM have received little attention in the literature. Children aged 6–60 months with SAM were cases, and age and sex matched children were controls. Cardiac biomarker levels were measured by the quantitative the Enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, and echocardiography was used to assess cardiac changes in all children. The study included 76 children in each group. Children with SAM had less left ventricular mass and increased myocardial performance index as compared with controls (p < 0.0001). Cardiac biomarker levels were increased in children with SAM (p < 0.0001). Cardiac changes and biomarker levels were comparable in children with edema and children without edema except creatine kinase-MB (p = 0.01).

Left Ventricular Myocardial Performance in Normotensive Offspring of Hypertensive Parents

INTRODUCTION

Early alterations in the cardiovascular system have been described in offspring of hypertensive parents, but with conflicting results.

AIM

To evaluate the influence of genetic predisposition to hypertension on left ventricular (LV) geometry and function, 30 normotensive male offspring of hypertensive parents (EH+) and 30 matched offspring of normotensive families (EH-), were studied.

METHODS

All subjects underwent office and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM), conventional and Tissue Doppler Echocardiography (TDE), including assessment of myocardial performance index (MPI).

RESULTS

EH+ showed an increase in office BP with statistical significance in diastolic BP (84 ± 7 vs 73 ± 6 mmHg; p < 0.05). Relative wall thickness (RWT) was greater in EH+ (0.37 ± 0.05 vs 0.31 ± 0.03; p < 0.05) and significantly related to the EH+ condition at the univariate analysis (p < 0.003), whilst the LV mass index was unchanged (84.3 ± 14 vs 80 ± 17 g/m²; p = NS), suggesting a trend towards concentric remodeling. Systolic and diastolic function, in both ventricles, were superimposable in the two groups. The MPI was higher in EH+ (0.49 ± 0.10 vs 0.45 ± 0.08; p = NS) and significantly correlated to RWT (r = 0.47, p < 0.01). However, at the stepwise multiple regression analysis, only the condition of EH + was independently associated with RWT (p <0.006). RWT, according to ROC curves analysis, predicted the condition of EH+ (cutoff 0.359, specificity 89%, sensitivity 82%).

CONCLUSION

Current results provide information about LV myocardial performance in EH+ subjects, related to a LV concentric remodeling and to endothelial dysfunction.

Assessment of the Fetal Myocardial Performance Index in Well-Controlled Gestational Diabetics and to Determine Whether It Is Predictive of Adverse Perinatal Outcome

This study was aimed at determining if the myocardial performance index (MPI) is altered in well-controlled gestational diabetics and if so whether it is predictive of adverse perinatal outcome. In a prospective cross-sectional study, 54 consecutive women with well-controlled gestational diabetes controlled on insulin or metformin in the third trimester were recruited and matched with 54 women with normal pregnancies (control group). Using Doppler echocardiography, the MPI was calculated. Sonographic biophysical and placental resistance Doppler markers in both groups were also determined. An abnormal outcome was defined as any of the following: stillbirth; neonatal death; neonatal intensive care admissions; tachypnea with pulmonary edema; neonatal cord pH < 7.15; 5-min Apgar score < 7, polycythemia; and nucleated red blood cells > 10/100 white blood cell counts, hypoglycemia. The MPI was significantly higher in the diabetic group compared to controls (p < 0.0001). Rate of adverse outcome was 22% in the diabetic group. The diabetic group with adverse outcomes had significantly elevated MPI values compared to the diabetic group with normal outcomes. There were 26 diabetics controlled on metformin and 28 controlled on insulin. The adverse outcome rate was slightly higher in the IDDM group compared to the non-insulin-dependent group but was not statistically significant. The main adverse outcomes were low Apgars (18%), hypoglycemia (22%), polycythemia (13%) and low pH in 7%. All control births had normal outcomes. MPI served as an independent predictor of adverse outcome. The MPI z-score had a good diagnostic accuracy as evidenced by the area under the ROC curve of 0.83. An MPI z-score exceeding 4.55 conferred a 90% sensitivity and 74% specificity, with 77% of outcomes correctly classified with a likelihood ratio of 3.5. The MPI is impaired in fetuses in well-controlled gestational diabetes, with fetuses with an adverse outcome having significantly higher MPI values compared to the fetuses with normal outcome in the diabetic group. MPI has the potential to improve fetal surveillance in gestational diabetes.

Assessment of right ventricular function after successful revascularization for acute anterior myocardial infarction without right ventricular infarction by echocardiography

Background

Right ventricular (RV) involvement in acute left ventricular (LV) myocardial infarction (MI) is frequently underestimated in the clinical setting owing to the diagnostic limitations of the electrocardiogram and echocardiography.

Objective

To assess RV function in patients presented with first acute anterior ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who underwent successful primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and factors affecting it.

Methods

Forty consecutive patients with anterior STEMI who underwent successful primary PCI were enrolled in the study. Presence of a coexisting clinical condition that might affect RV function, patients with RV infarction or those having significant stenosis (>50%) affecting RV branch or right coronary artery proximal to RV branch were excluded. Echocardiography was performed during the hospital stay to assess the LV and RV systolic and diastolic function with special focus on tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, RV end-diastolic dimension, right atrial area, RV fractional area change, and tissue Doppler-derived myocardial performance index.

Results and Conclusion

RV dysfunction according to our definition in the first anterior MI occurred in (55%) of the study population. Independent predictors for abnormal RV function were left circumflex artery mid or proximal affection, eventful procedure, occurrence of no reflow, glucose level, LV end-systolic dimension, LV end-diastolic dimension, and LV ejection fraction.

Estimation of echocardiogram parameters with the aid of impedance cardiography and artificial neural networks

The advent of cardiovascular diseases as a disease of mass catastrophy, in recent years is alarming. It is expected to spread as an epidemic by 2030. Present methods of determining the health of one's heart include doppler based echocardiogram, MDCT (Multi Detector Computed Tomography), among various other invasive and non-invasive hemodynamic monitoring techniques. These methods require expert supervision and costly clinical set-ups, and cannot be employed by a common individual to perform a self diagnosis of one's cardiac health, unassisted. In this work, the authors propose a novel methodology using impedance cardiography (ICG), for the determination of a person's cardio-vascular health. The recorded ICG signal helps in extraction of features which are used for estimating parameters for cardiac health monitoring. The proposed methodology with the aid of artificial neural network is able to determine Stroke Volume (SV), Left Ventricular End Systolic Volume (LVESV), Left Ventricular End Diastolic Volume (LVEDV), Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF), Iso Volumetric Contraction Time (IVCT), Iso Volumetric Relaxation Time (IVRT), Left Ventricular Ejection Time (LVET), Total Systolic Time (TST), Total Diastolic Time (TDT), and Myocardial Performance Index (MPI), with error margins of ±8.9%, ±3.8%, ±1.4%, ±7.8%, ±16.0%, ±9.0%, ±9.7%, ±6.9%, ±6.2%, and ±0.9%, respectively. The proposed methodology could be used in screening of precursors to cardiac ailments, and to keep a check on the cardio-vascular health.

Assessment of the Cardiac Function in Intrauterine Growth-Restricted Fetuses and Appropriate for Gestational Age Fetuses

Aim

Aim of the study is to evaluate the myocardial performance index in intrauterine growth restricted fetuses and compare this index with appropriate for gestational age fetuses.

Materials & Methods

A prospective study was conducted in S.M.S Medical College Jaipur, involving 72 singleton fetuses ≥ 28 weeks of gestation divided into two groups: 36 intrauterine growth restricted fetuses (IUGR) and 36 appropriate for gestational age fetuses (AGA). Myocardial performance index was obtained by fetal echocardiography.

Results

The mean myocardial performance index in the IUGR fetuses and AGA fetuses was statistically significant and that was 0.62 ± 0.02 and 0.45 ± 0.01, respectively; (p value: < 0.0001). These findings suggest that IUGR induces primary cardiac changes, which could explain the increased predisposition to cardiovascular disease in adult life. This study concluded that Fetal echocardiographic parameters (MPI) identify a high risk group within the IUGR fetuses, which could be targeted for early screening of blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors, as well as for promoting a healthy diet and physical exercise.

Myocardial performance index as an echocardiographic predictor of early in-hospital heart failure during first acute anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Objectives

To determine the value of Myocardial Performance Index (MPI) as an echocardiographic predictor of early in-hospital heart failure (HF) during first acute anterior ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI).

Background

Myocardial infarction induces variable degrees of impairment in left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic functions. The ejection fraction (EF) and transmitral flow, the most frequently used methods for evaluation of systolic and diastolic functions respectively, both have considerable limitations. The MPI is a single parameter, capable of estimating combined systolic and diastolic performance and lacks such limitations.

Methods

We enrolled 60 patients presented with a first acute anterior STEMI who have undergone primary PCI. Echocardiography was done within 24 h of chest pain with measurement of MPI. The LV MPI was calculated as (isovolumic contraction time “ICT” + relaxation time “IRT”)/Ejection time “ET”. Besides, clinical and echocardiographic variables were analyzed and CHF was defined as Killip class ≥ II.

Results

Early in-hospital HF occurred in 23 of patients (38%). Ejection fraction was found to have a highly significant negative correlation with the development of in-hospital HF (p = .0001), while MPI was found to have a highly significant positive correlation (p = .0001). A cut-off point of MPI > 0.73 showed a very high specificity (94.6%) and sensitivity (78.3%) for identifying patients with HF. On the other hand, a cut-off point of EF ≤ 33% has shown 94.6% specificity and 56.5% sensitivity for HF prediction.

Conclusions

The MPI might be a strong predictor of in-hospital HF after first acute anterior STEMI.

Serial evaluation of myocardial function using the myocardial performance index in Kawasaki disease

BACKGROUND

Kawasaki disease (KD) is known as systemic vasculitis, and more than half of the patients with KD have myocarditis, which can induce ventricular dysfunction. In this study, we evaluate left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in patients with KD based on the myocardial performance index (MPI) using pulse Doppler (PD) and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI), from the acute to convalescent phases.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied 89 children diagnosed with KD from January 2010 to August 2012. We assessed the presence of coronary artery lesions (CALs) and the LV ejection fraction, PD-MPI, and TDI-MPI at diagnosis, and 2, 14, and 56 days after intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment. We enrolled 70 healthy children as a control group.

RESULTS

The ejection fraction in patients with KD at diagnosis (67.3 ± 0.9%) was lower than that in the control group (69.8 ± 0.8%, P = 0.035), and the LV TDI-MPIs for patients with KD at diagnosis (0.49 ± 0.01) and 2 days after IVIG treatment (0.48 ± 0.01) were higher than those in the control group (0.45 ± 0.01, P = 0.002, P = 0.033, respectively). No significant differences were found in the LV dysfunction between the patients with complete and incomplete KD. Septal TDI-MPIs in patients with KD with CAL at diagnosis (0.52 ± 0.02) were higher than those in patients with KD without CAL (0.47 ± 0.01, P = 0.019).

CONCLUSIONS

Transient LV dysfunction occurred in patients with complete and incomplete KD in the acute stage. In patients with KD with CAL at diagnosis, the LV dysfunction was more prominent. The PD-MPI and TDI-MPI are useful parameters for assessing LV function in patients with KD.

Differential Changes in Myocardial Performance Index and Its Time Intervals in Donors and Recipients of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome before and after Laser Therapy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate left myocardial performance index (MPI) and time intervals in fetuses with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) before and after laser surgery.

METHODS

Fifty-one fetal pairs with TTTS and 47 uncomplicated monochorionic twin pairs were included. Left ventricular isovolumetric contraction time (ICT), ejection time (ET), and isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT) were measured using conventional Doppler.

RESULTS

Recipients showed prolonged ICT (46 ± 12 vs. 31 ± 8 vs. 30 ± 5 ms; p < 0.001) and IRT (51 ± 9 vs. 43 ± 8 vs. 43 ± 5 ms; p < 0.001) and higher MPI (0.57 ± 0.12 vs. 0.47 ± 0.09 vs. 0.44 ± 0.05; p < 0.001) than donors and controls. Donors showed shorter ET than recipients and controls (157 ± 12 vs. 169 ± 10 vs. 168 ± 10 ms; p < 0.001) and higher MPI than controls (0.47 ± 0.09 vs. 0.44 ± 0.05; p = 0.006). Preoperative MPI changes were observed in all TTTS stages. Time intervals partially improved after surgery.

CONCLUSION

Donor and recipient twins had higher MPI due to different changes in the time intervals, possibly reflecting the state of hypovolemia in the donor and hypervolemia and pressure overload in the recipient.

Left ventricular functions in children with newly diagnosed Graves' disease. A single-center study from Upper Egypt

This study aimed to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) functions in a cohort of children with Graves' disease (GD). This is a cross-sectional case-control study. It included 36 children with GD and 36 healthy children matched for age and gender. Thyroid hormones (TSH, FT4, and FT3) and anti-thyroid autoantibodies [anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO), thyrotropin receptor (TRAbs), and thyroglobulin antibodies] were measured. Conventional and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) echocardiographies were used to assess left ventricular systolic and diastolic functions. LV mass index (LVMI) and myocardial performance index (MPI) were also measured. Compared to healthy children, conventional echocardiography of patients with GD revealed higher LVMI (P = 0.001) indicating LV hypertrophy but normal LV functions while TDI revealed lower Em/Am ratio indicating LV diastolic dysfunction (P = 0.001). Significant correlations were reported between FT4 with LVMI (P = 0.05), Em/Am (P = 0.01), and MPI (P = 0.01). In multivariate analysis, a positive correlation was identified between FT4 with MPI (OR = 1.17; 95% CI = 1.09-1.15; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Children with newly diagnosed GD may have significant subclinical changes in LV structure and function (diastolic and global). TDI is more sensitive than conventional Doppler in detecting LV dysfunction. These findings highlight the importance of early monitoring of children with GD for left ventricular mass index and diastolic function. What is Known: • There is an increased risk for cardiac abnormalities in children with Graves' disease (GD). • Limited studies assessed left ventricular function in patients with GD. What is New: • Children with newly diagnosed GD may have significant subclinical changes in left ventricular structure and functions. • Children with newly diagnosed GD should be monitored for left ventricular mass index and diastolic function.

Cord Blood Biomarkers of Cardiac Dysfunction and Damage in Term Growth-Restricted Fetuses Classified by Severity Criteria

OBJECTIVE

To assess cardiovascular function and damage in term small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) fetuses by echocardiography and biomarkers in cord blood.

METHODS

This was a cohort study including 60 normal fetuses and 47 term small fetuses subclassified as small for gestational age (SGA) with estimated fetal weight (EFW) between the 3rd and 9th centiles and normal fetoplacental Doppler (n = 14) or intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR, n = 33) if EFW <3rd centile or EFW <10th centile together with cerebroplacental ratio <5th and/or mean uterine artery pulsatility index >95th centile. Fetal echocardiography included left myocardial performance index (MPI) and annular plane systolic excursion. Fetal B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), troponin-I, heart-type fatty acid-binding proteins (H-FABP), and homocysteine concentrations were measured in cord blood collected at delivery.

RESULTS

Both SGA and IUGR cases presented echocardiographic signs of systolic and diastolic dysfunction with increased MPI (mean controls 0.43 [SD 0.12], SGA 0.47 [0.03], and IUGR 0.57 [0.08], p < 0.01) and decreased mitral annular plane systolic excursion (controls 6.0 mm [1.0], SGA 5.5 mm [0.6], and IUGR 4.9 mm [0.8], p = 0 01). IUGR fetuses presented increased levels of cord blood BNP (controls 17.2 pg/mL [11.5], SGA 22.4 pg/mL [10.7], and IUGR 31.2 pg/mL [26.8], p < 0.01). Troponin I was increased in both SGA and IUGR cases (controls 0.004 ng/mL [0.007], SGA 0.012 ng/mL [0.02], and IUGR 0.018 ng/mL [0.05], p < 0.01). H-FABP and homocysteine showed similar values among groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiac dysfunction and cell damage is a common feature of term SGA and IUGR fetuses despite of the severity criteria for perinatal outcome. Further research is needed to evaluate the potential long-term consequences on their cardiovascular system.

Myocardial performance index in female athletes

BACKGROUND

Long-term intensive training leads to morphological and mechanical changes in the heart generally known as "athlete's heart". Previous studies have suggested that the diastolic and systolic function of the ventricles is unaltered in athletes compared to sedentary. The purpose of this study was to investigate myocardial performance index (MPI) by pulsed wave Doppler (PWD) and by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) in female elite athletes compared to sedentary controls.

METHODS

The study consisted of 32 athletes (mean age 20 ± 2 years) and 34 sedentary controls (mean age 23 ± 2 years). MPI by PWD and TDI were measured in the left (LV) and right ventricle (RV) in both groups. Moreover, comparisons of MPI by the two methods and between the LV and RV within the two groups were made.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in MPI between athletes and controls (p > 0.05), whereas the LV had significantly higher MPI compared to RV (p < 0.001, in athletes and controls). The agreement and the correlation between the two methods measuring MPI showed low agreement and no correlation (athletes RV r = -0.027, LV r = 0.12; controls RV r = 0.20, LV r = 0.30).

CONCLUSION

The global function of the LV and RV measured by MPI with PWD and TDI is similar in female athletes compared to sedentary controls. Conversely, both MPI by PWD and by TDI shows a significant difference between the LV and RV. However, the agreement and correlation between conventional methods of measuring MPI by PWD compared to MPI by TDI is very poor in both these populations.

Determination of the fetal myocardial performance index in women with gestational impaired glucose tolerance and to assess whether this parameter is a possible prognostic indicator of adverse fetal outcome

AIM

The aim of this study was to investigate if the myocardial performance index (MPI) is altered in fetuses in women with gestational impaired glucose tolerance (GIGT), controlled on diet and whether this parameter is also predictive of adverse outcome in this group, as in poorly controlled gestational diabetes.

METHODS

In a prospective cross-sectional study, 32 women with GIGT on diet in the 3rd trimester were recruited and matched with 32 women with normal pregnancies (control group). Using Doppler echocardiography, the MPI was calculated. Placental resistance Doppler markers in both groups were also determined. An abnormal outcome was defined as any of the following: stillbirth, neonatal death, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions, tachypnea with pulmonary oedema, neonatal cord pH <7.15, five minute Apgar score <7, and cardiomyopathy.

RESULTS

The cases had a significantly higher median MPI compared to controls, p value <.0001. There were eight abnormal outcomes recorded in the 32 fetuses in the study group, corresponding to an adverse outcome rate of 25%. Fetuses with an adverse outcome had significantly higher MPI measurements compared to the GIGT fetuses with normal outcome. The MPI served as an excellent predictor of adverse outcome in the GIGT fetuses, with a total area under the ROC curve of 0.96. An MPI z-score greater than 4.0 conferred a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 80%. No abnormal outcomes were noted in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The MPI is impaired in fetuses in GIGT women, with fetuses with an adverse outcome having significantly higher MPI measurements compared to the fetuses with normal outcome in the GIGT group. MPI has the potential to improve fetal surveillance in gestational diabetes.

Effect of food intake on myocardial performance index

Background

Myocardial performance index (MPI) has been investigated in a variety of populations, but the effect of food intake has not been evaluated. We assessed whether myocardial performance index is affected by food intake in healthy subjects.

Methods

Twenty-three healthy subjects aged 25.6 ± 4.5 years were investigated. MPI was measured before, 30 min after, and 110 min after a standardized meal.

Results

MPI decreased significantly (P < 0.05) from fasting values 30 min after the meal, and had almost returned to baseline after 110 min. MPI decreased from 0.28 ± 0.06 (fasting) to 0.20 ± 0.07 30 min after eating. At 110 min after eating the index value was almost back to the baseline value 0.26 ± 0.06. (P = 0.15).

Conclusions

This study shows that myocardial performance index is affected by food intake in healthy subjects.

Assessment of fetal myocardial performance in severe early onset pre-eclampsia (EO-PET) with and without intrauterine growth restriction across deteriorating stages of placental vascular resistance and links to adverse outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether fetuses in severe early onset pre-eclampsia (EO-PET) with or without intrauterine growth restriction has cardiac dysfunction across deteriorating stages of placental vascular resistance and whether this dysfunction influences perinatal outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a prospective cross-sectional study performed in a tertiary care university medical centre. Sixty pregnant patients with severe early-onset pre-eclampsia between 27 and 32 weeks were recruited and matched with 60 patients having normal pregnancies. An analysis of cardiac function using the myocardial performance index (MPI) and early ventricular filling (E) and late active atrial contraction (A) ratios (E/A ratios) in the study group was performed compared to controls and further analysis was performed based on worsening placental vascular resistance and presence of growth restriction.

RESULTS

MPI values were increased in the pre-eclamptic group, irrespective if growth restriction co-exists, compared to controls (0.61 vs 0.38, p<0.001). Its median value progressively increased with worsening placental vascular resistance. For adverse perinatal outcome cut-off MPI values have been suggested. The E/A ratios were significantly decreased in the pre-eclamptic group compared to controls (0.66 vs 0.79, p<0.0001). No adverse outcomes were noted in the control group.

CONCLUSION

Fetal cardiac function is significantly impaired in pregnancies complicated by severe early onset pre-eclampsia, irrespective if growth restriction co-exists and worsens with deteriorating grades of placental vascular resistance. The MPI can potentially be integrated into routine fetal surveillance techniques.

Left ventricular reverse remodeling in dilated cardiomyopathy- maintained subclinical myocardial systolic and diastolic dysfunction

In idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), myocardial deformational parameters and their relationships remain incompletely characterized. We measured those parameters in patients with DCM, during left ventricular reverse remodeling (LVRR). Prospective study of 50 DCM patients (in sinus rhythm), with left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) <40%. LVRR was defined as an increase of ten units of EF and decrease of diastolic left ventricular diameter (LVDD) in the absence of resynchronization therapy. Performed morphological analysis, myocardial performance quantification (LV and RV Tei indexes) and LV averaged peak systolic longitudinal strain (SSR long) and circumferential strain (SSR circ). At baseline, mean EF was 25.4 ± 9.8%, LVDD was 62.4 ± 7.4 mm, LVDD/BSA of 34.2 ± 4.5 mm/m² and 34% had MR grade >II/IV. LVRR occurred in 34% of patients within 17.6 ± 15.6 months and was associated with a reduced rate of death or heart failure hospitalization (5.9% vs. 33.3; p = 0.03). Patients with LVRR had a final EF of 48.9 ± 7.9% (Δ LV EF of 22.4%) and there was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in: LVDD/BSA, LV systolic diameter/BSA, LV diastolic volume, LV systolic volume, LV mass; an increase (p < 0.05) in sphericity index. However, measures of diastolic function (LA volume/BSA, e'velocity and' E/e'ratio), final LV and RV Tei indexes were not significantly different from baseline. Additionally, final SSR circ and SSR long values were not different from basal. Patients who recovered EF >50% (n = 10), SSR circ and SSR long were inferior to normal. Improvement in EF occurred in one-third of DCM pts and was associated with a decrease of major cardiac events. There was an improvement of diastolic and systolic volumes and in sphericity index, confirming truly LV reverse reshaping. However, myocardial performance indexes, SSR long and SSR circ in reverse-remodeled DCM were still abnormal, suggesting a maintained myocardial systolic and diastolic dysfunction.

Fetal Cardiodynamics by Echocardiography in Insulin Dependent Maternal Diabetes and Its Correlation with Pregnancy Outcome

INTRODUCTION

Maternal diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Usual screening tests have not proved to be good prognostic indicators of fetal distress. Fetal cardiodynamics is potentially a useful screening tool.

AIM

To determine if cardiodynamics of the fetus differ in pregnancy with diabetes requiring insulin than those without and to determine whether cardiodynamics predict fetal and neonatal outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective case control study was carried out in 40 pregnant women with diabetes who required insulin for blood sugar control. Twenty uncomplicated pregnant women were taken as controls. Systolic and diastolic cardiac functions along with interventricular septal thickness were assessed at 26-28 weeks and again at 34-36 weeks of gestation in fetuses by echocardiography. Fetal and neonatal adverse outcomes were evaluated in terms of major and minor morbidity.

RESULTS

Among all parameters, E/A ratio across both mitral and tricuspid valves, myocardial performance index and cardiac output were significantly different in fetuses of diabetic mothers at both gestations. However, pulmonary vein pulsatility index and interventricular septal thickness were similar between the two groups. At 26-28 weeks of gestation myocardial performance index correlated with abnormal biophysical profile whereas cardiac output correlated with minor morbidity. At 34-36 weeks of gestation, cardiac output correlated with abnormal biophysical profile while both MPI and cardiac output correlated with minor morbidity.

CONCLUSION

Echocardiographic parameters of fetuses of diabetic women significantly differed from those of uncomplicated non-diabetic women. However, only myocardial performance index and cardiac output correlated with adverse fetal and neonatal outcomes.

Pulmonary Artery Dilation and Right Ventricular Function in Acute Kawasaki Disease

Coronary artery inflammation and aneurysm formation are the most common complications of Kawasaki disease (KD). Valvulitis and myocarditis are also well described and may lead to valvar regurgitation and left ventricular dysfunction. However, functional changes in the right heart have rarely been reported. We noted several acute KD patients with dilated pulmonary arteries (PA) and thus sought to systematically characterize PA size and right-heart function in an unselected cohort of KD patients cared for at a single clinical center. Clinical, laboratory, and echocardiographic data from 143 acute KD subjects were analyzed. PA dilation was documented in 23 subjects (16.1 %); these subjects had higher median right ventricle myocardial performance index (RV MPI), higher ratio of early tricuspid inflow velocity to tricuspid annular early diastolic velocity (TV E/e'), and lower median TV e' velocity compared to the non-PA dilation group (0.50 vs 0.38 p < 0.01, 4.2 vs 3.6 p < 0.05, and 13.5 vs 15.2 cm/s p < 0.01, respectively). Almost all subjects with PA dilation had improved PA Z-score, RV MPI, and TV E/e' in the subacute phase (p < 0.01). There were no significant differences in indices of left ventricle function between PA dilation group and non-PA dilation group. In summary, PA dilation was documented in 16 % of acute KD subjects. These subjects were more likely to have echocardiographic indices consistent with isolated RV dysfunction that improved in the subacute phase. The long-term consequence of these findings will require longitudinal studies of this patient population.

Longitudinal Changes and Interobserver Variability of Systolic Myocardial Deformation Values in a Prospective Cohort of Healthy Fetuses across Gestation and after Delivery

BACKGROUND

Normative data for fetal myocardial deformation values have not been comprehensively described in a longitudinal cohort. The effect of gestational age on these values and on interobserver variability require further investigation.

METHODS

Sixty gravid women were prospectively enrolled before 20 weeks' gestation. The following measures were obtained by two blinded observers at five time points across gestation and also at 4 to 8 weeks' postnatal age: global circumferential strain and strain rate, global longitudinal left ventricular strain and strain rate, global longitudinal right ventricular strain and strain rate, and left and right ventricular myocardial performance indices. Optimal myocardial visualization and frame rate (≥100 frames/sec) were ensured.

RESULTS

For gestational age groups ≥24 weeks, intraclass correlation coefficients between observers were >0.70 for all measures and >0.85 for the majority of measures of myocardial deformation. At 20 to 21 weeks' gestation, intraclass correlation coefficients were 0.35 to 0.52 for longitudinal measures and 0.74 to 0.82 for circumferential measures. Myocardial performance index intraclass correlation coefficients were <0.80 at all time points and <0.70 for most time points. Global longitudinal left ventricular strain and global circumferential strain values remained stable across gestational age groups. Global longitudinal right ventricular strain values remained stable across gestation and increased after birth. Global circumferential strain rate, global longitudinal left ventricular strain rate, and global longitudinal right ventricular strain rate decreased from 20 to 21 weeks' gestation to the remainder of gestation and then remained stable until delivery. Upon delivery, global circumferential strain rate and global longitudinal left ventricular strain rate decreased, and global longitudinal right ventricular strain rate increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Interobserver variability of fetal strain and strain rate measured at ≥24 weeks' gestation was lower in comparison with values obtained at 20 to 21 weeks' gestation and lower in comparison with left ventricular and right ventricular myocardial performance indices using the described protocol. Gestational changes in fetal myocardial deformation values likely reflect changes in preload and/or afterload on the fetal heart.

Prognostic Value of Right Ventricular Tei Index in Dogs with Myxomatous Mitral Valvular Heart Disease

BACKGROUND

The right ventricular (RV) Tei index (TX) has a significant correlation with the severity of pulmonary hypertension. However, the role of RV dysfunction in dogs with myxomatous mitral valvular heart disease (MMVD) has not been addressed.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the correlation between right ventricular Tei-index (RVTX) and the prognosis for dogs with MMVD.

ANIMALS

Thirty client-owned dogs with MMVD.

METHODS

Clinical cohort study. Dogs were divided into two groups on the basis of the onset of cardiac-related death within 1 year of the first echocardiographic examination. Physical examination and echocardiographic variables were compared between the groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and multivariate logistic analysis were used to assess the comparative accuracy when identifying dogs with cardiac-related death.

RESULTS

The highest accuracy was obtained for RVTX with an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.81-0.99) followed by the left atrial to aortic root ratio with an AUC of 0.91 (95% CI 0.74-0.98), peak early diastolic mitral inflow velocity with an AUC of 0.84 (95% CI 0.64-0.94), and Doppler estimates of systolic pulmonary artery pressure with an AUC of 0.84 (95% CI 0.61-0.95). According to the multivariate logistic regression analysis, RVTX was the only independent correlate of cardiac-related death within 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Right ventricular Tei-index has a strong correlation with the prognosis for dogs with MMVD. The most significant independent predictor of death was RVTX in this study.

Assessment of Myocardial Performance Index and Aortic Elasticity in Patients With Beta-Thalassemia Major

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess myocardial performance index (MPI) and arterial elasticity indices in asymptomatic patients with beta-thalassemia major without known heart disease and to determine relationship between these indices and parameters indicating iron load of body.

METHODS

The study included 55 asymptomatic beta-thalassemia patients (median age: 20 years (10 - 48 years)) without known history of heart disease and 40 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. MPI and arterial elasticity indices were determined by using standard two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography. Data were analyzed by SPSS for Windows version 20.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).

RESULTS

Left ventricular mass index (83.917 (50.62 - 144) and 68.37 (41.9 - 113.3)) and MPI (0.464 (0.33 - 0.68) and 0.431 (0.31 - 0.51)) were significantly higher in patients with beta-thalassemia when compared to control group (P < 0.001 and P = 0.006). Aortic elasticity indices were significantly higher while aortic strain and distensibility values were significantly lower in patients with beta-thalassemia compared to controls (all P values < 0.001). Positive correlations were detected between aortic stiffness index and platelet (r = 0.235; P = 0.019) and ferritin values (r = 0.328; P = 0.008). Presence of thalassemia (β = -0.729; P = 0.041) and higher platelet value (β = 0.235; P = 0.019) were significant determinants for increased aortic stiffness in linear regression analysis.

CONCLUSION

Arterial elasticity indices and MPI are impaired in patients with beta-thalassemia major and these parameters may be used to predict cardiovascular complications in asymptomatic patients with beta-thalassemia major.

Incomplete RV Remodeling After Transcatheter ASD Closure in Pediatric Age

Published data showing the intermediate effect of transcatheter device closure of atrial septal defect (ASD) in the pediatric age-group are scarce. The objective of the study was to assess the effects of transcatheter ASD closure on right and left ventricular functions by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). The study included 37 consecutive patients diagnosed as ASD secundum by transthoracic echocardiography and TEE and referred for transcatheter closure at Cairo University Specialized Pediatric Hospital, Egypt, from October 2010 to July 2013. Thirty-seven age- and sex-matched controls were selected. TDI was obtained using the pulsed Doppler mode, interrogating the right cardiac border (the tricuspid annulus) and lateral mitral annulus, and myocardial performance index (MPI) was calculated at 1-, 3-, 6- and 12-month post-device closure. Transcatheter closure of ASD and echocardiographic examinations were successfully performed in all patients. There were no significant differences between two groups as regards the age, gender, weight or BSA. TDI showed that patients with ASD had significantly prolonged isovolumetric contraction, relaxation time and MPI compared with control group. Decreased tissue Doppler velocities of RV and LV began at one-month post-closure compared with the controls. Improvement in RVMPI and LVMPI began at 1-month post-closure, but they are still prolonged till 1 year. Reverse remodeling of right and left ventricles began 1 month after transcatheter ASD closure, but did not completely normalize even after 1 year of follow-up by tissue Doppler imaging.

Myocardial Performance Index in Neurocardiogenic Syncope Patients

BACKGROUND

Many syncopes resulting from neural reflexes in various conditions are called neurocardiogenic syncope (NCS). We aimed to investigate the presence of left ventricular (LV) myocardial performance index (MPI) in patients with NCS, which was diagnosed with head-up tilt table test (HUTT), and the accurateness of the test in order to use it as a method in patients with NCS. Assuming the MPI as a potential cause of syncope, we assessed the Tei index with non-invasive tissue Doppler echocardiography method.

METHODS

Consecutive outpatients with a history of recurrent unexplained syncope underwent HUTT. Twenty-nine HUTT (+) patients (24 female and five male, mean age: 30 ± 15 years) as the study group and HUTT (-) 23 healthy patients (six female and 17 male, mean age: 34 ± 16 years) as the control group were included into the study. Conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography was performed to both groups. The MPI was determined by using PW Doppler. Measurements of Doppler time intervals, according to Tei index ((isovolumic contraction time + isovolumic relaxation time)/ejection time) is calculated as (a - b/b), where "a" is the interval between cessation and onset of the mitral inflow, and "b" is the ejection time (ET) at the LV outflow.

RESULTS

When comparing the groups in terms of MPI and ET, there was significant difference between groups. Patients with NCS had significantly longer ET and lower MPI value than control group (284 ± 24 ms vs. 260 ± 24 ms, P < 0.001, respectively and 0.44 ± 0.7 vs. 0.52 ± 0.8, P < 0.001, respectively). There was no significant difference in ejection fraction between groups.

CONCLUSION

In the present study, LV MPI value decreases in patients with NCS.

Impact of metabolic syndrome on global left ventricular function: As evaluated by the myocardial performance index

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome is associated with the development of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. The impact of metabolic syndrome on the progression of atherosclerosis has been well documented. This study was designed to evaluate the impact of metabolic syndrome on global left ventricular function by using left ventricular myocardial performance index (LVMPI).

METHODS

The diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was made as per the criteria of the International Diabetes Federation. Echocardiography was performed with a Philips IE33 machine using a 1-5 MHz transthoracic probe. LVMPI was calculated by adding isovolumic contraction time with isovolumic relaxation time and dividing it by ejection time.

RESULTS

The mean LVMPI value in metabolic syndrome was 0.64 ± 0.09, while that in controls was 0.48 ± 0.06 (p < 0.001). Metabolic syndrome was seen to have more significant influence on LVMPI.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolic syndrome is a strong predictor of sub-clinical myocardial dysfunction in subjects free of clinically apparent heart disease.

Changes in cardiac function and cerebral blood flow in relation to peri/intraventricular hemorrhage in extremely preterm infants

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether changes in cardiac function and cerebral blood flow (CBF) precede the occurrence of peri/intraventricular hemorrhage (P/IVH) in extremely preterm infants.

STUDY DESIGN

In this prospective observational study, 22 preterm infants (gestational age 25.9 ± 1.2 weeks; range 23-27 weeks) were monitored between 4 and 76 hours after birth. Cardiac function and changes in CBF and P/IVH were assessed by ultrasound every 12 hours. Changes in CBF were also followed by continuous monitoring of cerebral regional oxygen saturation (rSO2) and by calculating cerebral fractional oxygen extraction.

RESULTS

Five patients developed P/IVH (1 patient grade II and 4 patients grade IV). Whereas measures of cardiac function and CBF remained unchanged in neonates without P/IVH, patients with P/IVH tended to have lower left ventricular output and had lower left ventricle stroke volume and cerebral rSO2 and higher cerebral fractional oxygen extraction during the first 12 hours of the study. By 28 hours, these variables were similar in the 2 groups and myocardial performance index was lower and middle cerebral artery mean flow velocity higher in the P/IVH group. P/IVH was detected after these changes occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiac function and CBF remain stable in very preterm neonates who do not develop P/IVH during the first 3 postnatal days. In very preterm neonates developing P/IVH during this period, lower systemic perfusion and CBF followed by an increase in these variables precede the development of P/IVH. Monitoring cardiac function and cerebral rSO2 may identify infants at higher risk for developing P/IVH before the bleeding occurs.

Myocardial dysfunction in pediatric septic shock

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence and significance of myocardial dysfunction in children with septic shock.

STUDY DESIGN

Thirty patients with septic shock were evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography within 24 hours of admission to a pediatric critical care unit. Transthoracic echocardiography evaluation included left ventricular (LV) size and function, mitral valve inflow velocities in early and late diastole, mitral valve annular velocities in systole and early and late diastole, and LV myocardial performance index. LV systolic dysfunction was defined as an ejection fraction or shortening fraction z-score <-2, and LV diastolic dysfunction was defined as a mitral valve inflow velocity/annular velocity in early diastole ratio z-score >2. Secondary outcomes included troponin I concentration, acute kidney injury, and 28-day mechanical ventilation-free duration.

RESULTS

Mortality for the 30 patients (mean age, 9.5 ± 7 years) was 7%. The prevalence of LV systolic and/or diastolic dysfunction was 53% (16 of 30). Eleven patients (37%) had systolic dysfunction, 10 (33%) had diastolic dysfunction, and 5 (17%) had both. Systolic and/or diastolic dysfunction was significantly associated with troponin I level (P = .007) and acute kidney injury (P = .02), but not with ventilation-free duration (P = .12). Kaplan-Meier analyses for pediatric critical care unit and hospital length of stay identified no differences between patients with and those without myocardial dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

Myocardial dysfunction occurs frequently in children with septic shock but might not affect hospital length of stay.

The Assessment and Potential Implications of the Myocardial Performance Index Post Exercise in an at Risk Population

BACKGROUND

The myocardial performance index (MPI) first described by Chuwa Tei in 1995 is a relatively new echocardiographic variable used for assessment of overall cardiac function. Previous studies have demonstrated the MPI to be a sum representation of both left ventricular systolic and diastolic function with prognostic value in patients with coronary artery disease as well as symptomatic heart failure.

METHODS

Ninety patients with either established coronary artery disease (CAD) or CAD risk factors underwent routine treadmill exercise stress testing with two-dimensional Doppler echocardiography using the standard Bruce protocol. Both resting and stress MPI values were measured for all 90 of the patients.

RESULTS

Using a normal MPI cut off of ≤ 0.47, the prevalence of an abnormal resting MPI in our 90 subjects was 72/90 or 80% and the prevalence of an abnormal stress MPI in our 90 subjects was 48/90 or 53.33%. The average MPI observed in the resting portion of the stress test for the cohort was: 0.636 with a standard deviation of 0.182. The average MPI in the stress portion of the stress test for the cohort was 0.530 with a standard deviation of 0.250. The P value with the use of a one-tailed dependent T test was calculated to be < 0.05.

CONCLUSION

We postulate that these findings reflect that the MPI (Tei) index assessed during exercise may be a sensitive indicator of occult coronary disease in an at risk group independent of wall motion assessment.

Cardiac function in early onset small for gestational age and growth restricted fetuses

OBJECTIVE

To examine cardiac function in appropriately grown, small for gestational age and intrauterine growth restricted fetuses and investigate the relationship between cardiac function and fetal arterial and venous Doppler parameters.

STUDY DESIGN

Myocardial performance index, isovolumetric contraction time, isovolumetric relaxation time, ejection time, and umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery and ductus venosus Doppler pulsatility index were measured for women between 24 and 32 weeks with small for gestational age and intrauterine growth restricted fetuses. Forty-eight appropriately grown, 11 small for gestational age and 12 intrauterine growth restricted cases were included. The relationship between cardiovascular parameters and gestation was defined and Doppler values converted to Z-scores in relation to gestational age.

RESULTS

In small for gestational age fetuses and fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction the myocardial performance index was 0.66 (0.63-0.7) and 0.64 (0.60-0.67), respectively, and compared to appropriately grown fetuses, at 0.45 (0.43-0.47), was significantly increased (p=0.001). No relationship was found between the myocardial performance index and arterial and venous Doppler Z-score.

CONCLUSION

Small for gestational age and intrauterine growth restricted fetuses demonstrate altered cardiac function in the late second and early third trimester of pregnancy. Importantly, the myocardial performance index is raised in small for gestational age fetuses before the arterial and venous Doppler abnormalities that characterize hypoxia are evident.

Left Atrial Volume Index as Indicator of Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction: Comparation between Left Atrial Volume Index and Tissue Myocardial Performance Index

Background

To point out a possible correlation between left atrial volume index (LAVI) and left ventricular (LV) diastolic time interval to better define LV diastolic dysfunction, this study was performed.

Methods

In 62 hypertensive-hypertrophic patients without LV systolic dysfunction, LV volumes, myocardial mass index, ejection fraction% (EF%) and LAVI were measured by two-dimensional echocardiography. Instead, tissue Doppler echocardiography (TDE) was used to measure myocardial performance index (MPI) and its systo-diastolic time intervals, such as: iso-volumetric contraction time (IVCT); iso-volumetric relaxation time (IVRT); ejection time. LAVI, TDE-MPI and time intervals where also measured in 15 healthy controls, to obtain the reference values.

Results

Results shown a significant increase of LV volumes in hypertensives in comparison to the control group (p < 0.05). LV mass index also augmented (p < 0.001). Instead, EF% not significantly changed in hypertrophic patients in comparison with healthy controls. LAVI raised in hypertensives wih left ventricular hypertrophy, whereas IVCT resulted within the normal limits. On the contrary, IVRT significantly raised. Accordingly, MPI resulted higher in controls.

Conclusion

LAVI, MPI and its time intervals appear as reliable tools to non-invasively individualize LV diastolic dysfunction in systemic hypertension, in absence of mitral valve disease.