Right Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain as a Predictor of Acute and Early Right Heart Failure Post Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation

Early right heart failure (RHF) occurs in up to 40% of patients following left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The most recent report from the Mechanical Circulatory Support-Academic Research Consortium (MCS-ARC) working group subdivides early RHF into early acute RHF and early postimplant RHF. We sought to determine the effectiveness of right ventricular (RV) longitudinal strain (LS) in predicting RHF according to the new MCS-ARC definition. We retrospectively analyzed clinical and echocardiographic data of patients who underwent LVAD implantation between 2015 and 2018. RVLS in the 4-chamber (4ch), RV outflow tract, and subcostal views were measured on pre-LVAD echocardiograms. Fifty-five patients were included in this study. Six patients (11%) suffered early acute RHF, requiring concomitant RVAD implantation intraoperatively. Twenty-two patients (40%) had postimplant RHF. RVLS was significantly reduced in patients who developed early acute and postimplant RHF. At a cutoff of -9.7%, 4ch RVLS had a sensitivity of 88.9% and a specificity of 77.8% for predicting RHF and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.86 (95% confidence interval 0.76-0.97). Echocardiographic RV strain outperformed more invasive hemodynamic measures and clinical parameters in predicting RHF.

Right Ventricular Longitudinal Strain in Patients with Heart Failure

Patients with heart failure (HF) have high morbidity and mortality. Accurate assessment of right ventricular (RV) function has important prognostic significance in patients with HF. However, conventional echocardiographic parameters of RV function have limitations in RV assessments due to the complex geometry of right ventricle. In recent years, speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) has been developed as promising imaging technique to accurately evaluate RV function. RV longitudinal strain (RVLS) using STE, as a sensitive index for RV function evaluation, displays the powerfully prognostic value in patients with HF. Therefore, the aim of the present review was to summarize the utility of RVLS in patients with HF.

The roles of global longitudinal strain imaging in contemporary clinical cardiology

Myocardial deformation imaging is now readily available during routine echocardiography and plays an important role in the advanced care of cardiovascular diseases. Its clinical value in detecting subtle myocardial dysfunction, by helping diagnose disease and allowing prediction of disease progression and earlier pharmacological intervention, has been demonstrated. Strain imaging has been the most studied and clinically used technique in the field of cardio-oncology. A relative percent reduction in left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain > 15% from baseline is considered a marker of early subclinical LV dysfunction and may have the potential to guide early initiation of cardioprotective therapy. The role of strain imaging is expanding to other fields, such as cardiac amyloidosis, other cardiomyopathies, valvular heart diseases, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. It is also used for the evaluation of the right ventricle and atria. This review aims to provide a current understanding of the roles of strain imaging in the evaluation and management of patients with cardiovascular diseases in clinical practice.

Subclinical right ventricular dysfunction in patients with mitral stenosis

BACKGROUND

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is a strong predictor of poor outcomes of patients with mitral stenosis (MS). The aim of this study was to detect a subclinical right ventricular dysfunction in patients with MS.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study from January 2015 to June 2019 in 104 asymptomatic patients with MS (mean age: 46.1 ± 4.27 years), and compared to a group of 52 age and sex matched healthy subjects. Standard and speckle tracking echocardiography were performed; parameters of RV function were measured and compared.

RESULTS

Although they were in normal range, RV fractional area change (RVFAC), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), tissue Doppler and pulsed wave Doppler RV myocardial performance index (MPI) and peak systolic velocity (S') were decreased in patients with MS (p < 0.05). The global RV longitudinal strain (LSGRV) and the longitudinal strain of the free wall of the right ventricular (LSFRV) were lower in patients with MS (p, respectively, at 0.001 and < 0.001), 53.5% (n = 47) of patients had LSFRV < - 20%. A significant difference was noted between LSFRV and 2D strain of the septal wall (p = 0.002). No difference was found between patients with severe MS and moderate MS regarding LSFRV and LSGRV. No correlation between LSFRV and FAC (p = 0.85), MPI (p = 0.62), TAPSE (p = 0.31) and S' (p = 0.78) was found.

CONCLUSION

Our study showed the presence of subclinical systolic dysfunction of the right ventricle in patients with MS.

Role of Echocardiography for Assessment of Cardiac Remodeling in Congenitally Corrected Transposition of Great Arteries

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to assess the role of echocardiography for a comprehensive assessment of cardiac remodeling, and the relationship between indices of cardiac remodeling and cardiovascular events (defined as the composite end point of heart failure hospitalization, heart transplant, or cardiovascular death) in adults with congenitally corrected transposition of great arteries (cc-TGA).

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of adults with cc-TGA who underwent echocardiogram (2003-2020). Offline image analysis was performed in all patients. Chamber (atrial and ventricular) function and size were assessed by strain imaging and 2-dimensional echocardiography.

RESULTS

Of 233 patients with cc-TGA (40±15 years), 123 (55%) had at least one cardiac procedure before baseline echocardiogram. Of 233 patients, 76% and 61% had left atrial dysfunction and systemic right ventricular dysfunction, respectively; while 43% and 11% had right atrial dysfunction and left ventricular dysfunction, respectively. During a median follow-up of 8.9 years, 114 (49%) underwent additional cardiac procedures, and 66 (28%) had cardiovascular events. Left atrial reservoir strain, right ventricular global longitudinal strain, right atrial reservoir strain, left ventricular systolic pressure, and left ventricular global longitudinal strain were independently associated with cardiovascular events.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to the clinical importance of right ventricular systolic dysfunction in cc-TGA that is already well described, the current study demonstrated, for the first time, that biatrial dysfunction was common and was associated with clinical outcomes. Since there are currently no effective therapies for atrial and ventricular dysfunction in patients with cc-TGA, there is a need for research to identify novel strategies to prevent atrial and ventricular dysfunction in this population.

Impaired right ventricular function in long-term survivors of allogeneic haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation

AIMS

Survivors of allogeneic haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease. We aimed to describe right ventricular (RV) systolic function and risk factors for RV dysfunction in long-term survivors of allo-HSCT performed in their youth.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This cohort included 103 survivors (53% female), aged (mean±SD) 17.6±9.5 years at allo-HSCT, with a follow-up time of 17.2±5.5 years. Anthracyclines were used as first-line therapy for 44.7% of the survivors. The RV was evaluated with echocardiography, and found survivors to have reduced RV function in comparison to a group of healthy control subjects: Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, (TAPSE, 20.8±3.7 mm vs 24.6±3.8 mm, p<0.001), RV peak systolic velocity (RV-s', 11.2±2.3 cm/s vs 12.3±2.3 cm/s, p=0.001), fractional area change (FAC, 41.0±5.2% vs 42.2±5.1%, p=0.047) and RV free-wall strain (RVFWS, -27.1±4.2% vs -28.5±3.3%, p=0.043). RV systolic dysfunction (RVSD) was diagnosed in 14 (13.6%), and was strongly associated with progressive left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD). High dosages of anthracyclines were associated with greater reductions in RV and LV function. Multivariable linear regressions confirmed global longitudinal strain to be a significant independent predictor for reduced RV function.

CONCLUSION

Impaired RV function was found in long-term survivors of allo-HSCT who were treated in their youth. This was associated with progressive left ventricle dysfunction, and pretransplant therapies with anthracyclines. The occurrence of RVSD was less frequent and was milder than coexisting LVSD in this cohort.

Right Heart Dysfunction in Adults With Coarctation of Aorta: Prevalence and Prognostic Implications

BACKGROUND

Chronic elevation of left heart filling pressure causes pulmonary vascular remodeling, pulmonary hypertension, and right heart dysfunction. Although diastolic dysfunction is relatively common in patients with coarctation of aorta, there are limited data about the prevalence and prognostic implications of pulmonary hypertension and right heart dysfunction in this population. The purpose of the study was to assess right heart function and hemodynamics in patients with coarctation of aorta and to determine the relationship between right heart indices and cardiovascular events defined as heart failure hospitalization, heart transplant, or cardiovascular death.

METHODS

Right heart structure, function, and hemodynamics were assessed with these indices: right atrial volume, right atrial pressure, right atrial reservoir strain, right ventricular global longitudinal strain, right ventricular end-diastolic area, right ventricular systolic pressure, and tricuspid regurgitation severity. Right heart hemodynamic score, range 0 to 5, was generated based on the correlation between the right heart indices and cardiovascular events, using half of the cohort (derivation cohort, n=411), and then tested on the validation cohort (n=410). The goodness of fit and discrimination power was compared using C statistics and risk score.

RESULTS

The median follow-up in the derivation cohort was 8.2 (4.0-11.1) years, and 59 (14%) patients had cardiovascular events during this period. Right heart hemodynamic score was independently associated with cardiovascular events (hazard ratio, 1.64 [95% CI, 1.38-2.17]) for every unit increase in right heart hemodynamic score after adjustment for clinical and echocardiographic indices (C statistic, 0.718 [95% CI, 0.682-0.746]). The right heart hemodynamic score was also independently associated with cardiovascular events in the validation cohort (C statistic, 0.711 [95% CI, 0.679-0.741]). The C statistic difference (0.007 [95% CI, 0.014-0.022]) and risk score (0.86 [95% CI, 0.54-1.17]) suggest a good model fit.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study underscores the prognostic importance of right heart dysfunction in patients with coarctation of aorta and suggests that right heart indices should be used for risks stratification in this population.

Atrioventricular and Ventricular Functional Interdependence in Individuals Without Overt Cardiac Disease

Background

Left atrial (LA) and right ventricular (RV) performance play an integral role in the pathophysiology and prognosis of heart failure. We hypothesized that subclinical left ventricular dysfunction adversely affects LA/RV geometry and function even in a preclinical setting. This study aimed to investigate the atrioventricular and ventricular functional interdependence in a community‐based cohort without overt cardiovascular disease.

Methods and Results

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), RV free‐wall longitudinal strain and LA phasic strain were assessed by speckle‐tracking echocardiography in 1080 participants (600 men; 62±12 years) between 2014 and 2018. One hundred and forty‐three participants (13.2%) had an abnormal LVGLS (>−18.6%). LA reservoir strain, conduit strain, and RV free‐wall longitudinal strain were significantly decreased in abnormal LVGLS group compared with normal LVGLS group (all P<0.001). LA and RV dysfunction (LA reservoir strain<31.4% and RVLS>−19.2%) were present in 18.9% and 19.6% of participants with abnormal LVGLS. Decreased LVGLS was associated with worse LA reservoir strain, conduit strain and RV free‐wall longitudinal strain (standardized β=−0.20, −0.19 and 0.11 respectively, all P<0.01) independent of cardiovascular risk factors. LA and/or RV dysfunction concomitant with abnormal LVGLS carried significantly increased risk of elevated B‐type natriuretic peptide levels (>28.6 pg/mL for men and >44.4 pg/mL for women) compared with normal LVGLS (odds ratio, 2.01; P=0.030).

Conclusions

LA/RV dysfunction was present in 20% individuals with abnormal LVGLS and multi‐chamber impairment was associated with elevated B‐type natriuretic peptide level, which may provide valuable insights for a better understanding of atrioventricular and ventricular interdependence and possibly heart failure preventive strategies.

Prognostic value of right ventricular echocardiographic measures in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction

PURPOSE

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is associated with poor outcome in patients with heart failure. In order to better predict mortality in this patient group we wanted to compare the prognostic value of conventional and advanced RV echocardiographic measures.

METHODS

Echocardiographic examinations were retrieved from 701 patients. End point was all-cause mortality and follow-up 100%. RV parameters were measured offline in accordance with current guidelines. Speckle tracking was derived using the algorithm originally designed for the left ventricle.

RESULTS

During follow-up (median: 39 months) 118 patients (16.8%) died. RV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and RV free wall strain (FWS) remained associated with mortality after multivariable adjustment independent of Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) (RV GLS: HR 1.07, 95%CI 1.02-1.13, p = 0.010, per 1% decrease) (RV FWS: HR 1.05, 95%CI 1.01-1.09, p = 0.010, per 1% decrease). This seemed to be caused by significant associations in men. All RV estimates provided prognostic information incremental to established risk factors and significantly increased C-statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

RV GLS and FWS were associated with mortality in HFrEF patients after multivariable adjustment independent of TAPSE. TAPSE, however, remained as the strongest prognosticator in women. More research is needed to identify whether speckle tracking could be superior to conventional RV measures in identifying HFrEF patients with poor outcome.

Daratumumab May Attenuate Cardiac Dysfunction Related to Carfilzomib in Patients with Relapsed/Refractory Multiple Myeloma: A Prospective Study

Simple Summary

The management of cardiovascular adverse events in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma undergoing treatment with carfilzomib can be challenging. Herein, we evaluated the potential cardioprotective effect of daratumumab when administered in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone (DaraKd). The study included 25 patients receiving either DaraKd (n = 14) or Kd (n = 11) who were evaluated for echocardiographic changes at the sixth cycle of treatment compared with baseline assessment. DaraKd was associated with preserved post-treatment cardiac systolic function compared with Kd. CD38 inhibition by daratumumab might restore metabolic disequilibrium in the cardiac tissue and prevent cardiac injury. A trend for a lower rate of cardiovascular adverse events among patients receiving DaraKd was also evident, although larger studies are needed to determine the association between echocardiographic and/or biomarker changes with cardiovascular adverse events.

Abstract

Carfilzomib has improved survival in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM), but it may exert cardiovascular adverse events (CVAEs). The aim of this study was to assess whether treatment with daratumumab may ameliorate carfilzomib-related toxicity. We prospectively evaluated 25 patients with RRMM who received either daratumumab in combination with carfilzomib and dexamethasone (DaraKd) (n = 14) or Kd (n = 11). Cardiac ultrasound was performed before treatment initiation and C6D16 or at the time of treatment interruption. Patients were followed for a median of 10 months for CVAEs. The mean (± SD) age was 67.8 ± 7.6 years and 60% were men. The two treatment groups did not significantly differ in baseline demographic characteristics (p > 0.1 for all). In the DaraKd group, we did not observe any significant change in markers of ventricular systolic function. However, these markers deteriorated in the Kd group; left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, LV global longitudinal strain, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and RV free wall longitudinal strain significantly decreased from baseline to second visit (p < 0.05). A significant group interaction (p < 0.05) was observed for the abovementioned changes. CVAEs occurred more frequently in the Kd than the DaraKd group (45% vs. 28.6%). DaraKd was associated with preserved post-treatment cardiac systolic function and lower CVAE rate compared with Kd. The clinical significance and the underlying mechanisms merit further investigation.

Long-term follow-up and sex differences in adults operated for tetralogy of Fallot

OBJECTIVE

Adults operated for tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) have high risk of ventricular arrhythmias (VA). QRS duration >180 ms is an established risk factor for VA. We aimed to investigate heart function, prevalence of arrhythmias and sex differences in patients with TOF at long-term follow-up.

METHODS

We included TOF-operated patients≥18 years from our centre's registry. We reviewed medical records and the most recent echocardiographic exam. VA was recorded on ECGs, 24-hour Holter registrations and from implantable cardioverter defibrillator.

RESULTS

We included 148 patients (age 37±10 years). Left ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV GLS, -15.8±3.1% vs -18.8±3.2%, p=0.001) and right ventricular (RV) GLS (-15.8±3.9% vs -19.1±4.1%, p=0.001) were lower in men at all ages compared with women. Higher RV D1 (4.3±0.5 cm vs 4.6±0.6 cm, p=0.01), lower ejection fraction (55%±8% vs 50%±9%, p=0.02), lower RV GLS (-18.1±4.0 ms vs -16.1±4.8 ms, p=0.04) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) over reference range (n=27 (23%) vs n=8 (77%), p<0.001) were associated with higher incidence of VA. QRS duration was longer in men (151±30 ms vs 128±25 ms, p<0.001). No patients had QRS duration >180 ms. QRS duration did not differ in those with and without VA (143±32 ms vs 137±28 ms, p=0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirmed reduced RV function in adults operated for TOF. Male patients had impaired LV and RV function expressed by lower LV and RV GLS values at all ages. Reduced cardiac function and elevated NT-proBNP were associated with higher incidence of VA and may be important in risk assessment.

A guide to echocardiographic assessment in children and adolescents with pulmonary hypertension

While the current definition of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is still based on haemodynamic variables, transthoracic echocardiography is the most important diagnostic clinical tool for the first assessment and evaluation of a patient, in whom PH is suspected. In addition, it is the most important clinical modality in long term follow-up and the utility of echocardiography has widely been demonstrated in patients with PH. Echocardiography not only reveals the underlying cardiac morphology and diagnosis of any associated cardiac defects. In most patients with PH right ventricular (RV) pressure estimation is feasible. In addition, ventricular systolic and diastolic function, as well as ventricular-ventricular interactions of both ventricles can be assessed by using echocardiography. Maximizing the use of echocardiography by reporting several measures to gain information and quantitatively describe the parameters, that are linked to prognosis, seem particularly appealing in these children, in whom other advanced imaging modalities requiring anaesthesia is associated with a considerable risk. Herein we provide a practical approach and a concise and clinically applicable echocardiographic guidance and present basic variables, which should be obtained at any assessment. Moreover, we present additional advanced echocardiographic measures, that can be applied in a research or clinical setting when progressive PH needs a deeper insight to assess heart function, estimation of pulmonary artery pressures among others, by echocardiography. Finally, clinically relevant studies in view of the prognostic properties with a focus on the most important echocardiographic variables in pediatric PH are summarized.

Defining the reference range for right ventricular systolic strain by echocardiography in healthy subjects: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Right ventricular (RV) systolic strain has recently demonstrated prognostic value in various cardiovascular diseases. Despite this, the reference range including the lower limit of normal (LLN) and factors associated with RV strain measurements are not well-established. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the mean and LLN of two- (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) right ventricular global (RVGLS), free wall (RVFWLS) and interventricular septal wall (IVSLS) longitudinal strains in healthy individuals and factors that affect strain measurements.

METHODS

In this meta-analysis, Pubmed, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched until 31 July 2020 for eligible studies reporting RVGLS, RVFWLS and/or IVSLS in at least 30 healthy subjects. We pooled the means and LLNs of RV strains by two- (2D) and three- (3D) dimensional echocardiography, and performed meta-regression analyses.

RESULTS

From 788 articles screened, 45 eligible studies totaling 4439 healthy subjects were eligible for analysis. Pooled means and LLNs with 95% confidence intervals for 2D- RV strains were RVGLS -23.4% (-24.2%, -22.6%) and -16.4% (-17.3%, -15.5%) in 27 studies; RVFWLS -26.9% (-28.0%, -25.9%) and -18.0% (-19.2%, -16.9%) in 32 studies; and IVSLS -20.4% (-22.0%, -18.9%) and -11.5% (-13.6%, -9.6%) in 10 studies, and similar results for 3D- RV strains. Right ventricular fractional area change and vendor software were associated with 2D-RVGLS and RVFWLS means and LLNs.

CONCLUSION

We reported the pooled means and LLNs of RV systolic strains in healthy subjects, to define thresholds for abnormal, borderline and normal strains. Important factors associated with RV systolic strains include right ventricular fractional area change and vendor software.

Right ventricular systolic function in severe tricuspid regurgitation: prognostic relevance of longitudinal strain

AIMS

The aim of this study is to analyse the prognostic implications of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction as detected by strain analysis in patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR). The evaluation of RV systolic function in presence of severe TR is of paramount importance for operative risk stratification; however, it remains challenging, as conventional echocardiographic indexes usually lead to overestimation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We enrolled 250 consecutive patients with severe TR referred to our centre. Baseline clinical and echocardiographic data and follow-up outcomes were collected. Patients were predominantly female, with multiple cardiovascular risk factors and comorbidities, history of heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Most of them had presented with clinical signs of RV heart failure (RVHF) and advanced New York Heart Association class. The RV strain analysis [both RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWLS) and RV global longitudinal strain (RVGLS)] reclassified ∼42-56% of patients with normal RV systolic function according to conventional parameters in patients with impaired RV systolic function. RVFWLS ≤17% (absolute values, AUC: 0.66, P = 0.002) predicted the presence of RVHF [odds ratio (OR) 0.93, P = 0.01]. At follow-up, patients with RVFWLS >14% (absolute values, AUC: 0.70, P = 0.001, sensitivity 72%, specificity 54%) showed a better survival (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Different ranges of RVFWLS have different implications in patients with severe TR, allowing to identify a preclinical and a clinical window, with correlations to RVHF and survival.

Aging and myocardial strain

Advanced age is widely recognized as a key risk factor for incident cardiovascular disease. The age-associated changes in cardiac properties alter the substrate on which cardiovascular disease is superimposed in various ways, and thus affect the development and manifestations of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the elderly. However, it is still unclear whether age-related cardiac alteration is attributed to aging itself or whether it is secondary to other acquired cardiovascular risk factors. Understanding the association between aging and cardiac functional remodeling might provide insight into the pathogenesis of cardiovascular aging and may help inform possible preventive strategies for CVD in older individuals. Speckle-tracking echocardiography enables the objective and quantitative assessment of subtle myocardial alterations that are undetectable with conventional echocardiography, and has excellent feasibility and reproducibility. Left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain, a sensitive measure of LV systolic dysfunction, was found to be an independent risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. More recently, deformation imaging has been employed to assess right ventricular (RV) and atrial performance, and impaired RV and atrial strain predict unfavorable outcomes in various clinical settings. This article reviews the association between aging and changes in myocardial strain values and describes future perspectives.

Echocardiography in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Comprehensive Evaluation and Technical Considerations

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare, progressive disease in which there is a persistent, abnormal increase in pulmonary artery pressure. Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension are nonspecific and mainly associated with progressive right ventricular failure. The diagnosis of PAH is a multistep process and often requires the skillful use of several tests. The gold standard for the diagnosis of PAH is hemodynamic testing. Echocardiography currently plays an important role in the diagnostic algorithm of PAH as it is minimally invasive and readily available. Moreover, many echocardiographic parameters are closely related to pulmonary hemodynamics. It allows assessment of the right heart′s structure and function, estimation of the pressure in the right ventricle, right atrium, and pulmonary trunk, and exclusion of other causes of elevated pulmonary bed pressure. Echocardiographic techniques are constantly evolving, and recently, measurements made using new techniques, especially 3D visualization, have become increasingly important. In echocardiographic assessment, it is crucial to know current guidelines and new reports that organize the methodology and allow standardization of the examination. This review aims to discuss the different echocardiographic techniques used to evaluate patients with PAH.

Right Ventricular Functionality Following Hemodialysis Initiation in End-Stage Kidney Disease-A Single-Center, Prospective, Cohort Study

Background and Objectives: Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) is viewed as an outstanding technique, competent of uncovering earlier subclinical myocardial anomalies compared to conventional echocardiography. A few endeavors adopted 2D-STE as a tool to estimate right ventricular (RV) function in subjects with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). There is no published prospective study on an adult ESKD cohort exploring the consequences of commencing elective hemodialysis (HD) on RV behavior. Materials and Methods: We investigated the RV systolic function using traditional (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion-TAPSE, RV fractional area change-FAC) and 2D-STE (RV free wall longitudinal strain-RVFWLS) parameters following the initiation of HD. We enrolled 79 consecutive patients with ESKD and assessed them in four steps-at baseline, before HD, and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Results: RVFWLS, FAC, and TAPSE values had a significant increase at 3, 6, and 12 months from baseline (p < 0.001) and a significant increase at 6 months from 3 months (p < 0.001). However, differences between 12 months and 6 months were not significant (p > 0.05) according to Dunn-Bonferroni post hoc tests. Seventeen deaths were recorded before the completion of the study. RVFWLS, FAC, and TAPSE values significantly decreased at 3 and 6 months in all 17 deceased patients, in clear opposition with the values survivors had. All the studied parameters had a significant prediction power on mortality (p < 0.001) having an outstanding performance: baseline-RVFWLS (AUC: 1.000 (95% C.I.: 1.000-1.000)), baseline-FAC (AUC: 0.974 (95% C.I.: 0.942-1.000)), and baseline-TAPSE (AUC: 0.962 (95% C.I.: 0.920-1.000). Conclusions: Our study is the first to investigate RV function by 2D-STE and correlate it with traditional methods in patients with ESKD before and after the initiation of HD. RV function was significantly ameliorated at 3, 6, and 12 months compared to the pre-HD values. FAC and RVFWLS gain an outstanding prognostic role on mortality in this population.

Prognostic value of right ventricular free wall longitudinal strain in a large cohort of outpatients with left-side heart disease

AIMS

Right ventricular free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWLS) has been proposed as an accurate and sensitive measure of right ventricular function that could integrate other conventional parameters such as tricuspid annulus plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and fractional area change (FAC%). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between RVFWLS and outcomes in stable asymptomatic outpatients with left-sided structural heart disease.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We enrolled 458 asymptomatic patients with left-side heart diseases and any ejection fraction who were referred for echocardiography to two Italian centres. The composite endpoint of death for any cause and heart failure hospitalization was used as primary outcome of this analysis. After a mean follow-up of 5.4 ± 1.2 years, 145 patients (31%) reached the combined endpoint. Most of echocardiographic parameters were related to outcomes, including right ventricular functional parameters. Mean value of RVFWLS in our cohort was -21 ± 8% and it was significantly related to the combined endpoint and in multivariable Cox-regression model; when tested with other echocardiographic parameters that were significantly related to outcome at univariate analysis, RVFWLS maintained its independent association with outcome (hazard ratio 0.963, 95% confidence interval 0.948-0.978; P = 0.0001). The best cut-off value of RVFWLS to predict outcome was -22% (area under the curve 0.677; P < 0.001; sensitivity 70%; 65% specificity).

CONCLUSION

RVFWLS may help clinicians to identify patients with left-sided structural heart disease at higher risk for first heart failure hospitalization and death for any cause.

Traditional and Novel Imaging of Right Ventricular Function in Patients with Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review attempts to summarize the role of standard and advanced echocardiographic techniques together with CMR in the evaluation of the RV in HF, providing an outlook on the recent evidence.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the last decade, there has been growing interest in the study of the RV, and it is now widely established that RV function is a strong predictor of mortality, in several cardiovascular diseases, in particular in the setting of heart failure (HF). The evaluation of RV function might be particularly challenging, which justifies the necessity of multi-modality imaging. The echocardiographic assessment remains the mainstay technique even though it might be complex, due to RV crescent shape and its position in the chest, requiring both qualitative and quantitative parameters. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) represents a complementary exam which is particularly useful when precise structural and functional assessment are needed, considering the most recently developed sequences. Despite the technological improvement attested over the last years, there is still no universally accepted parameter that univocally defines RV function, hence the necessity to evaluate several parameters, combining different imaging techniques.

Relation of Body Mass Index to Adverse Right Ventricular Mechanics

Although higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with adverse left ventricular morphology and functional remodeling, its possible association with right ventricular (RV) dysfunction has not been extensively evaluated. RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVLS) is emerging as an important tool to detect early RV dysfunction. This study aimed to investigate the independent effect of increased BMI on RVLS in a large sample of the general population without overt cardiac disease. We examined 1,085 participants (603 men, mean age 62 years) who voluntarily underwent an extensive cardiovascular health check-up. This included laboratory tests and speckle-tracking echocardiography to assess RVLS. The association between BMI and RVLS was determined by logistic regression analyses. The prevalence of abnormal RVLS (>-19.2%) was greatest in obese individuals (29.7%), followed by overweight (16.3%), and normal weight (10.6%, p <0.001). In multivariable analyses, BMI was significantly associated with abnormal RVLS (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.07 per 1 kg/m², p = 0.033) independent of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, pertinent laboratory and echocardiographic parameters including RV size and pulmonary artery systolic pressure. In subgroup analyses, BMI was significantly associated with abnormal RVLS in men (adjusted OR 1.10 per 1 kg/m², p = 0.032) and younger (<65 years) participants (adjusted OR 1.13 per 1 kg/m², p = 0.011), but not in women and the elderly. In a sample of the general population, higher BMI was independently associated with subclinical RV dysfunction. Furthermore, an increased BMI may carry different risk for impaired RVLS depending on the age and sex.

Forgotten No More-The Role of Right Ventricular Dysfunction in Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: An Echocardiographic Perspective

During the last decade, studies have raised awareness of the crucial role that the right ventricle plays in various clinical settings, including diseases primarily linked to the left ventricle. The assessment of right ventricular performance with conventional echocardiography is challenging. Novel echocardiographic techniques improve the functional assessment of the right ventricle and they show good correlation with the gold standard represented by cardiac magnetic resonance. This review summarizes the traditional and innovative echocardiographic techniques used in the functional assessment of the right ventricle, focusing on the role of right ventricular dysfunction in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and providing a perspective on recent evidence from literature.

Right ventricular strain in Anderson-Fabry disease

BACKGROUND

2D speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) is superior to standard echocardiography in the assessment of subtle right ventricle (RV) systolic dysfunction. In this study we aimed to: 1) test the hypothesis that 2DSTE may unveil subtle RV systolic dysfunction in patients with Fabry disease; 2) investigate whether the physiologic difference between the 3-segment (RV-FWS) and the 6-segment (RV-GLS) RV strain (∆RV strain) is preserved in Fabry patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Standard echocardiography and 2DSTE were performed in 49 Fabry patients and 49 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Fabry patients were divided in two groups according to the presence/absence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH+: left ventricular wall thickness > 12 mm, 49% of total Fabry patients). RV systolic function assessed by standard echocardiography was normal in the majority of Fabry patients (92%) while RV-GLS and RV-FWS were impaired in about 40%. RV-GLS and RV-FWS were significantly worse in patients LVH+ vs LVH- and vs controls (RV-GLS: LVH+ vs LVH-: -18.4 ± -4.3% vs -23.8 ± -3.1% p<0.001; LVH+ vs controls: -18.4 ± -4.3% vs -23.9 ± -2.8% p<0.001; RV-FWS: LVH+ vs LVH-: -21.8 ± -5.3% vs -26.7 ± -3.8% p = 0.002, LVH+ vs controls -21.8 ± -5.3% vs -26.8 ± -3.9% p<0.001). No difference was found between LVH- patients and controls in both RV-GLS (p = 0.65) and RV-FWS (p = 0.79). ∆RV strain was similar among the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In Fabry cardiomyopathy impaired RV-GLS and RV-FWS is a common finding, while RV strain is preserved in Fabry patients without overt cardiac involvement. The physiologic difference between RV-FWS and RV-GLS is maintained in Fabry patients, regardless of the presence of cardiomyopathy.

Usefulness and clinical relevance of left ventricular global longitudinal systolic strain in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

In recent years, several studies have shown the usefulness and clinical relevance of left ventricular global longitudinal systolic strain (GLS) in different cardiovascular diseases. In line with this, the role of GLS in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has achieved great importance in this predominant form of heart failure in the last years. In this regard, GLS has shown to be not only a sensitive parameter to detect subtle myocardial abnormalities but also a parameter of clinical and prognostic relevance in patients with HFpEF. In this review, we analyze the current evidence concerning the clinical relevance of GLS in patients with HFpEF and we discuss the potential usefulness of GLS in this complex and heterogeneous condition for which so far no effective therapy exists.

Three-dimensional echocardiography to identify right ventricular dilatation in patients with corrected Fallot anomaly or pulmonary stenosis

Background

3‐Dimensional Echocardiography allows measuring volumes and parameters of myocardial deformation (strain). Myocardial strain has been suggested to be superior to conventional echo parameters in the assessment of right ventricular (RV) function. Myocardial strain can be assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) or two‐ and three‐dimensional echocardiography (2D and 3DEcho). We performed a comprehensive assessment of the RV based on 3DEcho and compared the results with those based on CMR and 2DEcho.

Methods

36 patients with corrected heart defects underwent CMR and 3DEcho to assess RV volume, strain and cardio pulmonary exercise testing with peak VO₂ measurement. 2DEcho was used for reference.

Results

There was a moderate correlation between 3DEcho and CMR for measuring RV end‐diastolic and end‐systolic volumes (r = .82 and .72). 3DEcho tended to underestimate the RV volumes, mean difference EDV 8.5 ± 33 ml (CI −2.8; 19.7 ml) and ESV 13.2 ± 29 ml (CI 3.3; 23 ml). According to method‐specific reference values for RVEDV, 34/35 (3DEcho) and 29/36 (CMR) were dilated. Among those dilated according to CMR, all were identified by 3DEcho. The coefficient of correlation between RV atrioventricular plane displacement measured by CMR and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion measured by 3D and 2DEcho was r = .6 for both. 2DEcho measured lower LV volumes than CMR. LVEF and GLS were similar in 2DEcho, 3DEcho and CMR. Patients with CMR‐determined RV free wall strain ≤ −14% tended to have lower peak VO₂.

Conclusions

Although 3DEcho underestimated RV volumes, it successfully identified all patients with RV dilatation based on method‐specific reference values.

Relationship between right and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction assessed by 2-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography in adults with repaired tetralogy of Fallot

Several studies have reported a correlation between right ventricular (RV) and left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction in adults with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). However, data are lacking regarding the relationship between RV and LV diastolic dysfunction assessed by 2-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. We studied 69 adults with repaired TOF (mean age 34 years, 61% male) who had been regularly followed up and had routinely undergone echocardiography. In addition to conventional echocardiography, global longitudinal strain (GLS) and early diastolic strain rate (SRe) of both ventricles were assessed using 2-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. Results were compared with 30 age- and sex-matched controls. RV and LV GLS were decreased in TOF patients compared with controls (− 18.4 ± 3.3% vs. −23.5 ± 4.2%, p < 0.001 and − 16.0 ± 3.8% vs. −20.0 ± 3.0%, p < 0.001, respectively). RV and LV SRe were also decreased in TOF patients compared with controls (1.22 ± 0.34 sec^− 1 vs. 1.47 ± 0.41 sec^− 1, p = 0.003 and 1.29 ± 0.42 sec^− 1 vs. 1.63 ± 0.42 sec^− 1, p < 0.001, respectively). A correlation between RV and LV SRe was found in TOF patients (r = 0.43, p < 0.001) as well as between RV and LV GLS (r = 0.45, p < 0.001). Two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography reveals subclinical RV and LV diastolic dysfunction in adults with repaired TOF. A correlation is observed between RV and LV diastolic dysfunction as well as between RV and LV systolic dysfunction.

Update on noninvasive imaging of right ventricle dysfunction in pulmonary hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a progressive disease affecting patients across the life span. The pathophysiology primarily involves the pulmonary vasculature and right ventricle (RV), but eventually affects the left ventricular (LV) function as well. Safe, accurate imaging modalities are critical for diagnosis, serial monitoring, and tailored therapy. While cardiac catheterization remains the conventional modality for establishing diagnosis and serial monitoring, noninvasive imaging has gained considerable momentum in providing accurate assessment of the entire RV-pulmonary axis. In this state-of-the-art review, we will discuss the most recent developments in echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography in PH evaluation from pediatric to adult population.

Mechanics of right ventricular dysfunction in pulmonary arterial hypertension and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction is the most important determinant of survival in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). The manifestations of RV dysfunction not only include changes in global RV systolic function but also abnormalities in the pattern of contraction and synchrony. The effects of PH on the right ventricle have been mainly studied in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). However, with the demographic shift towards an aging population, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has become an important etiology of PH in recent years. There are significant differences in RV mechanics, function and adaptation between patients with PAH and HFpEF (with or without PH), which are related to different patterns of remodeling and dysfunction. Due to the unique features of the RV chamber, its connection with the main pulmonary artery and the pulmonary circulation, an understanding of the mechanics of RV function and its clinical significance is mandatory for both entities. In this review, we describe the mechanics of the pressure overloaded right ventricle. We review the different mechanical components of RV dysfunction and ventricular dyssynchrony, followed by insights via analysis of pressure-volume loop, energetics and novel blood flow patterns, such as vortex imaging. We conduct an in-depth comparison of prevalence and characteristics of RV dysfunction in HFpEF and PAH, and summarize key outcome studies. Finally, we provide a perspective on needed and expected future work in the field of RV mechanics.

Right ventricle in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) affects half of all patients with heart failure. While previously neglected, the right ventricle (RV) has sparked interest in recent years as a means for better understanding this condition and as a potential therapeutic target.

Right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) is present in 4%–50% of patients with HFpEF. The RV is intimately connected to the pulmonary circulation, and pulmonary hypertension is commonly implicated in the pathophysiology of RVD. The development of RVD in HFpEF may also be driven by comorbidities, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obesity, obstructive sleep apnoea and atrial fibrillation. The evaluation of RVD is particularly challenging due to anatomical and structural factors, as well as unique physiological characteristics of this chamber like load and interventricular dependency. Fractional area change, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and tricuspid annular systolic velocity are commonly used measurements of RV function. Speckle tracking echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) are also gaining attention as important tools for the assessment of RV structure, fibre deformation and systolic performance. Further research is needed to confirm the utility and prognostic significance of RV [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography imaging as FDG accumulation is suggested to increase with progressive RVD. Targeted pharmacotherapy with phosphodiesterase inhibitors, guanylate–cyclase stimulators, nitrates and inhaled inorganic nitrites have yet to demonstrate improvement in RVD, compelling the need for evaluation and discovery of novel pharmacological interventions for this entity.

Echocardiographic characteristics of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection

Background

Myocardial involvement induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection might be important for long-term prognosis. The aim of this observational study was to characterize the myocardial effects during SARS-CoV-2 infections by echocardiography.

Results and methods

An extended echocardiographic image acquisition protocol was performed in 18 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection assessing LV longitudinal, radial, and circumferential deformation including rotation, twist, and untwisting. Furthermore, LV deformation was analyzed in an age-matched control group of healthy individuals (n = 20). The most prevalent finding was a reduced longitudinal strain observed predominantly in more than one basal LV segment (n = 10/14 patients, 71%). This pattern reminded of a “reverse tako-tsubo” morphology that is not typical for other viral myocarditis. Additional findings included a biphasic pattern with maximum post-systolic or negative regional radial strain predominantly basal (n = 5/14 patients, 36%); the absence or dispersion of basal LV rotation (n = 6/14 patients, 43%); a reduced or positive regional circumferential strain in more than one segment (n = 7/14 patients, 50%); a net rotation showing late post-systolic twist or biphasic pattern (n = 8/14 patients, 57%); a net rotation showing polyphasic pattern and/or higher maximum net values during diastole (n = 8/14 patients, 57%).

Conclusion

Myocardial involvement due to SARS-CoV-2-infection was highly prevalent in the present cohort—even in patients with mild symptoms. It appears to be characterized by specific speckle tracking deformation abnormalities in the basal LV segments. These data set the stage to prospectively test whether these parameters are helpful for risk stratification and for the long-term follow-up of these patients.

What is the most useful imaging parameter to explore the prognostic value of the right ventricular function at the time of multimodality cardiovascular imaging?

BACKGROUND

Right ventricular (RV) function is a powerful independent predictor of adverse heart failure outcomes. The aim of this study was to compare the predictive value of main RV systolic imaging parameters for outcome.

METHODS

Seventy-nine patients underwent comprehensive cardiovascular imaging modalities including transthoracic echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, and tomographic equilibrium radionuclide ventriculography (ERV) for the assessment of RV function. The composite primary endpoint (CPE) was defined by the occurrence of death, heart transplantation, implantation of a left ventricular assist device, or new-onset acute heart failure.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up of 13 ± 9 months, 15 (19%) patients reached the CPE. The areas under the receiver operator characteristic curves for the prediction of the CPE were 0.922 (P < .001), 0.913 (P < .001), 0.906 (P < .001), 0.849 (P = .002), 0.837 (P = .003), 0.799 (P = .009), 0.792 (P = .011), 0.753 (P = .026), 0.720 (P = .053), and 0.608 (P = .346) for integral systolic S' wave tricuspid annular velocity, RV free wall longitudinal strain (RVFWLS), RV fractional area change, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, RV ejection fraction (RVEF) by CMR using the 4-chamber slices, peak systolic S' wave tricuspid annular velocity, RVEF by CMR using short-axis slices, RVEF by ERV, RV myocardial performance index, and RV myocardial acceleration during isovolumic contraction, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Echocardiographic parameters, and particularly integral systolic S' wave tricuspid annular velocity and RVFWLS, have the best prognostic performance.

2- and 3-Dimensional Myocardial Strain in Cardiac Health and Disease

Advances in speckle-tracking echocardiography allowed the rise of deformation imaging as a feasible, robust, and valuable tool for clinical routine. The global or segmental measurement of strain can objectively quantify myocardial deformation and can characterize myocardial function in a novel way. However, the proper interpretation of deformation measurements requires understanding of cardiac mechanics and the influence of loading conditions, ventricular geometry, conduction delays, and myocardial tissue characteristics on the measured values. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the basic concepts of deformation imaging, briefly describe imaging modalities for strain assessment, and discuss in depth the underlying physical and pathophysiological mechanisms which lead to the respective findings in a specific disease.

Right Ventricular Systolic Function After the Cone Procedure for Ebstein's Anomaly: Comparison Between Echocardiography and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance

Although the Cone procedure has improved outcomes for patients with Ebstein´s anomaly (EA), neither RV systolic function recovery in long-term follow-up nor the best echocardiographic parameters to assess RV function are well established. Thus, we evaluated RV performance after the Cone procedure comparing two-dimensional (2DEcho) and three-dimensional (3DEcho) echocardiography to cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). We assessed 27 EA patients after the Cone procedure (53% female, median age of 20 years at the procedure, median post-operative follow-up duration of 8 years). Echocardiography was performed 4 h apart from the CMR. RV global longitudinal strain (GLS), fractional area change (FAC), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), myocardial performance index and tissue Doppler S' velocity were assessed using 2DEcho, whereas 3DEcho was used to evaluate RV volumes and ejection fraction (RVEF). Echocardiographic variables were compared to CMR-RVEF. All patients were in the NYHA functional class I. Median TAPSE was 15.9 mm, FAC 30.2%, and RV-GLS -15%; median RVEF by 3DEcho was 31.9% and 43% by CMR. Among 2DEcho parameters, RV-GLS and FAC had a substantial correlation with CMR-RVEF (r =  - 0.63 and r = 0.55, respectively); from 3DEcho, the indexed RV volumes and RVEF were closely correlated with CMR (RV-EDVi, r = 0.60, RV-ESVi, r = 0.72; and RVEF r = 0.60). RV systolic function is impaired years after the Cone procedure, despite a good clinical status. FAC and RV-GLS are useful 2DEcho tools to assess RV function in these patients; however, 3DEcho measurements appear to provide a better RV assessment.

Right Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain and Outcomes in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

BACKGROUND

Right ventricular (RV) strain has emerged as an accurate tool for RV function assessment and is a powerful predictor of survival in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. However, its prognostic impact in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to compare the prognostic value of RV global longitudinal strain (RVGLS) by two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiographic (STE) imaging in patients with HFpEF against conventional RV function parameters.

METHODS

Patients with HFpEF were prospectively recruited, and 149 of 183 (81%) with analyzable STE RVGLS images constituted the final study population (mean age, 78 ± 9 years; 61% women), compared with 28 control subjects of similar age and sex. All control subjects and 120 patients also underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were followed up for a primary end point of all-cause mortality and first heart failure hospitalization, and Cox regression analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Mean STE RVGLS was significantly altered in patients with HFpEF compared with control subjects (-21.7 ± 4.9% vs -25.9 ± 4.2%, P < .001). STE RVGLS correlated well with RV ejection fraction by cardiac magnetic resonance (r = -0.617, P < .001). Twenty-eight patients with HFpEF (19%) had impaired STE RVGLS (>-17.5%). During a mean follow-up period of 30 ± 9 months, 91 patients with HFpEF (62%) reached the primary end point. A baseline model was created using independent predictors of the primary end point: New York Heart Association functional class III or IV, hemoglobin level, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and the presence of moderate or severe tricuspid regurgitation. Impaired STE RVGLS provided significant additional prognostic value over this model (χ² to enter = 7.85, P = .005). Impaired tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and fractional area change, however, did not.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with HFpEF, impaired RVGLS has strong prognostic value. STE RVGLS should be considered for systematic evaluation of RV function to identify patients at high risk for adverse events.

Right Ventricular Free Wall Strain and Congestive Hepatopathy in Patients with Acute Worsening of Chronic Heart Failure: A CATSTAT-HF Echo Substudy

Right ventricular (RV) function is an important predictor of prognosis in patients with heart failure. However, the relationship of the RV free wall longitudinal strain (RV FWS) and the degree of hepatic dysfunction during the acute worsening of heart failure (AWHF) is unknown. We sought to determine associations of RV FWS with laboratory liver function tests and parameters of RV function including tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), RV fractional area change (RV FAC), maximal tricuspid jet velocity (TR V_max), RV S′ velocity, and estimated RV systolic pressure (RVSP). A total of 42 AWHF patients from the CATSTAT-HF study were stratified in two groups by the RV FWS median (−16.5%). Patients < RV FWS median had significantly prolonged international normalized ratio (INR; p = 0.002), increased total bilirubin (p < 0.001) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP; p = 0.020), and decreased albumin (p = 0.005) and thrombocytes (p = 0.017) compared to patients > RV FWS median. RV FWS independently correlated to total bilirubin (β = 0.457, p = 0.004), ALP (β = 0.556, p = 0.002), INR (β = 0.392, p = 0.022), albumin (β = −0.437, p = 0.013), and thrombocytes (β = −404, p = 0.038). Similarly, TAPSE, RV FAC, and RV S′ significantly correlated with RV FWS. In conclusion, RV impairment, reflected in reduced RV FWS, is independently associated with a higher degree of hepatic dysfunction among patients with AWHF (CATSTAT-HF ClinicalTrials gov number, NCT03389386).

Right Ventricular Strain Impairment in Adults and Adolescents with Repaired Aortic Coarctation

This study examines the function of the right ventricle (RV) using two-dimensional (2D) strain analysis after aortic coarctation (CoA) repair, as well as relationships between potential RV strain abnormalities and patient characteristics. The study examined 39 patients (61% male, age 32 ± 16 years) with CoA repair (33 post end-to-end anastomosis/sub-clavian flap, 6 post stenting/bypass/Teflon patch) and 42 controls. The structure and function of the left ventricle (LV), left atrium (LA), and RV were assessed using 2D standard echocardiography, tissue Doppler imaging, and 2D strain imaging. The characteristics examined included global RV longitudinal strain (RV-GLS), global LV longitudinal strain (LV-GLS), and LA longitudinal strain (LA strain). RV dysfunction was defined by RV-GLS lower than the mean minus 2 standard deviations (SDs) of the control group value. LV mass and mitral E/E_a were significantly higher in the CoA group. Septal E_a, LV-GLS, and LA strain were significantly lower in the CoA group. RV dysfunction (RV-GLS >  - 16%) was present in 10 (25.6%) CoA patients. RV-GLS was correlated with lateral E_a, LV-GLS, and LA strain (r =  - 0.35, p = 0.02; r =  - 0.54, p < 0.001; and r =  - 0.44, p = 0.005, respectively). Patients who had a stenting/bypass/Teflon patch as the first initial repair exhibited significantly lower RV-GLS. RV systolic strain abnormalities may occur in patients late after CoA repair. RV strain was correlated with parameters of LV dysfunction. Further large-scale studies are required to confirm these findings and to determine the mechanisms and prognostic implications of RV strain in such patients.

Prognostic Implications of Right Ventricular Free Wall Longitudinal Strain in Patients With Significant Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation

Background In patients with significant functional tricuspid regurgitation, timely detection of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction with conventional 2-dimensional echocardiography is challenging, whereas speckle-tracking echocardiography RV free wall longitudinal strain has been proposed as better prognosticator. We evaluated the prevalence and prognostic value of impaired RV free wall longitudinal strain in patients with significant functional tricuspid regurgitation, in comparison with tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and fractional area change (FAC). Methods Eight hundred ninety-six patients (51.3% men, 71 years [62-78 years]) with significant functional tricuspid regurgitation were divided according to the presence of RV dysfunction (defined as TAPSE <17 mm, FAC <35%, and RV free wall longitudinal strain >-23%) and were followed for the occurrence of all-cause mortality. Results RV free wall longitudinal strain identified the highest percentage of RV dysfunction (84.9%), in comparison to FAC (48.5%) and TAPSE (71.7%). During a median follow-up of 2.8 years (1.3-5.4 years), 443 (49.4%) patients died. Compared with survivors, nonsurvivors showed worse RV systolic dysfunction (FAC=36.5±12.7% versus 33.9±11.8%, P=0.001; TAPSE=15.4±5.0 versus 14.0±4.5 mm, P<0.001; RV free wall longitudinal strain=-15.9±7.5% versus -12.9±6.8%, P<0.001). Cumulative event-free survival was significantly worse in patients with decreased FAC, decreased TAPSE, and impaired RV free wall longitudinal strain. On multivariate analysis, RV free wall longitudinal strain was independently associated with all-cause mortality and incremental to FAC and TAPSE. Conclusions In significant tricuspid regurgitation, impaired RV free wall longitudinal strain identifies higher rates of RV dysfunction and is associated with worse outcome beyond conventional echocardiographic parameters of RV systolic function.

The effects of anesthesia induction and positive pressure ventilation on right-ventricular function: an echocardiography-based prospective observational study

Background

General anesthesia induction with the initiation of positive pressure ventilation creates a vulnerable phase for patients. The impact of positive intrathoracic pressure on cardiac performance has been studied but remains controversial. 3D echocardiography is a valid and MRI-validated bed-side tool to evaluate the right ventricle (RV). The aim of this study was to assess the impact of anesthesia induction (using midazolam, sufentanil and rocuronium, followed by sevoflurane) with positive pressure ventilation (PEEP 5, tidal volume 6–8 ml/kg) on 2D and 3D echocardiography derived parameters of RV function.

Methods

A prospective observational study on fifty-three patients undergoing elective cardiac surgery in a tertiary care university hospital was designed. Transthoracic echocardiography exams were performed before and immediately after anesthesia induction and were recorded together with hemodynamic parameters and ventilator settings.

Results

After anesthesia induction TAPSE (mean difference − 1.6 mm (95% CI − 2.6 mm to − 0.7 mm; p = 0.0013) as well as the Tissue Doppler derived tricuspid annulus peak velocity (TDITVs’) were significantly reduced (mean difference − 1.9% (95% CI: − 2.6 to − 1.2; p < 0.0001), but global right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF; p = 0.1607) and right ventricular stroke volume (RVSV; p = 0.1838) did not change.

Conclusions

This data shows a preserved right ventricular ejection fraction and right ventricular stroke volume after anesthesia induction and initiation of positive pressure ventilation. However, the baso-apical right ventricular function is significantly reduced. Larger studies are needed in order to determine the clinical impact of these findings especially in patients presenting with impaired right ventricular function before anesthesia induction.

Trial registration

Retrospecitvely registered, 6th June 2016, ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02820727.

Rapid improvement in right ventricular free wall longitudinal strain measures after successful percutaneous mitral commissurotomy

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous mitral commissurotomy (PMC) is currently the treatment of choice for patients with symptomatic mitral stenosis (MS) that have favorable valvular characteristics. We aimed to evaluate the effect of PMC on the longitudinal strain of the right ventricular (RV) free wall in patients with severe MS.

METHODS

This prospective study recruited patients who underwent PMC. Transesophageal and transthoracic echocardiographic examinations were performed. The mitral valve area (MVA) was measured by three-dimensional evaluation. The RV longitudinal strain was measured via the speckle-tracking method.

RESULTS

A total of 42 patients with a maximum MVA of 1.5 cm² underwent PMC in our study. The MVA increased significantly after the procedure (pre-PMC MVA = 0.94 ± 0.20 cm² vs post-PMC MVA = 1.45 ± 0.18 cm² ; P < .01). Systolic pulmonary artery pressure decreased from 46.05 ± 14.08 mm Hg preprocedurally to 35.86 ± 7.53 mm Hg postprocedurally (P < .01). The mean RV free wall longitudinal strain was -19.00 ± 5.14%, which rose significantly after PMC to -20.97 ± 3.81 (P < .05). There were postprocedural increases, albeit nonsignificant, in the tricuspid annular peak systolic excursion, the peak systolic Doppler velocity of the RV free wall, and fractional area change. The improvement in the RV longitudinal strain was more prominent in the patients with an MVA of less than 1.0 cm² .

CONCLUSIONS

There was a significant post-PMC rise in the RV free wall longitudinal strain measures in our study population, demonstrating an immediate improvement in the RV systolic function of the patients.

Quantification of regional right ventricular strain in healthy rats using 3D spiral cine dense MRI

Statistical data from clinical studies suggests that right ventricular (RV) circumferential strain (Ecc) and longitudinal strain (Ell) are significant biomarkers for many cardiovascular diseases. However, a detailed and regional characterization of these strains in the RV is very limited. In the current study, RV images were obtained with 3D spiral cine DENSE MRI in healthy rats. An algorithm for surface growing was proposed in order to fit irregular topology. Specifically, a new custom plugin for the DENSEanalysis program, called 3D DENSE Plugin for Crescent Organ, was developed for surface reconstruction and precise segmentation of organs with sharp curvature, such as the murine RV. The RV free wall (RVFW) was divided into three longitudinal thirds (i.e., basal, middle, and apical) with each one partitioned into circumferential fourths (i.e., anterior, anteriorlateral, inferiorlateral and inferior). Peak systolic strains were quantified for each segment and comparisons were performed statistically. The inclusion of a new plugin was able to generate global values for Ecc and Ell that are in good agreement with previous findings using MRI. Despite no regional variation found in the peak Ecc, the peak Ell exhibited regional variation at the anterior side of the RV, which is potentially due to differences in biventricular torsion at the RV insertion point and fiber architecture. These results provide fundamental insights into the regional contractile function of the RV in healthy rat and could act as a normative baseline for future studies on regional changes induced by disease or treatment.

Two-dimensional Echocardiographic Assessment of Myocardial Strain: Important Echocardiographic Parameter Readily Useful in Clinical Field

Echocardiography is the first and is the most-available imaging modality for many cardiovascular diseases, and echocardiographic parameters can give much important information for diagnosis, treatment, and prognostic evaluations. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is the most commonly used echocardiographic parameter for left ventricular (LV) systolic function. Although LVEF is used routinely in daily practice, it is calculated from volumetric change without representing true myocardial properties. Recently, strain echocardiography has been used to objectively measure myocardial deformation. Myocardial strain can give accurate information about intrinsic myocardial function, and it can be used to detect early-stage cardiovascular diseases, monitor myocardial changes with specific therapies, differentiate cardiomyopathies, and predict the prognosis of several cardiovascular diseases. Although strain echocardiography has been applied to measure the right ventricle and left atrium, in addition to analyzing the LV, many cardiologists who are not imaging specialists are unaware of its clinical use and importance. Therefore, this review describes the measurement and clinical utility of 2-dimensional strain analysis in various cardiovascular diseases.

The year 2017 in the European Heart Journal-Cardiovascular Imaging: Part I

The European Heart Journal - Cardiovascular Imaging was launched in 2012. It has gained an impressive impact factor of 8.336 during its first 6 years and is now established as one of the top 10 cardiovascular journals in the world and the most important cardiovascular imaging journal in Europe. The most important studies published in the journal in 2017 will be highlighted in two reports. Part I will focus on studies about myocardial function, coronary artery disease and myocardial ischaemia, and emerging techniques and applications in cardiovascular imaging, whereas Part II will focus on valvular heart disease, heart failure, cardiomyopathies, and congenital heart disease.

Lower limit of normality and clinical relevance of left ventricular early diastolic strain rate for the detection of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction

Aims

The aim of the present study was to determine the lower limit of normality and the clinical relevance of left ventricular (LV) early diastolic strain rate (LVSRe) for the detection of LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD).

Methods and results

Using 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography, we analysed 377 healthy subjects and 475 patients with risk for LVDD with preserved LV ejection fraction (LVEF). The normal range of LVSRe analysing the healthy subjects was 1.56 ± 0.28 s-1, with a lower limit of normality at 1.00 s-1. Using this cut-off, LVSRe was able to detect high rates of LV diastolic alterations (rate 71.1%), which was significantly better than using indirect diastolic parameters such as left atrial volume index (LAVI) and tricuspid regurgitation velocity (TR) (rates 22.9% and 9.1%) and similar to annular mitral parameters such as lateral and septal e' velocity (rates 70.9% and 72.4%). In line, adding LVSRe to the current evaluation of LVDD increased significantly the rate of detection of LVDD (absolute rate of increase 18.9%; rate of detection of LVDD: from 14.3% to 33.2%, P < 0.01). Regarding the clinical relevance of LVSRe, patients with abnormal LVSRe (i.e. <1.00 s-1) had significantly worse New York Heart Association functional class and symptomatic status than those with normal LVSRe. In addition, in a retrospective post hoc analysis, we found that an abnormal LVSRe had a significant association with the risk of heart failure hospitalization at 2 years (odds ratio 5.0, 95% confidence interval 1.3-18.4), which was better than using conventional diastolic parameters such as septal and lateral e' velocity, LAVI and TR velocity.

Conclusion

The findings from this multicentre study provide important data regarding the normal range of LVSRe and highlight the potential clinical relevance of using this new diastolic parameter in the detection of LVDD in patients with preserved LVEF.

Value of speckle-tracking echocardiography changes in monitoring myocardial dysfunction during treatment of sepsis: potential prognostic implications

Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) has been increasingly used for detection of sepsis-related myocardial dysfunction. However, the impact of strain changes during sepsis treatment has not been defined. This study assessed STE at admission and during the treatment of patients with sepsis to evaluate its changes as a potential factor for predicting in-hospital outcome. This study included 26 patients with sepsis who underwent STE echocardiography on day 1 and 7 during treatment. Myocardial deformation of both ventricles was assessed using global longitudinal strain. The endpoint was in-hospital mortality. The mean age was 51.4 ± 18.3 years, and 54% were female. The average SOFA score at T0 was 8.6 ± 3.8 points and at day 7 was 4.9 ± 4.7 points. The left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction at baseline was 65.6 ± 9.1%, without changes in echocardiographic parameters during treatment. LV and RV longitudinal strain increased significantly in the patients who survived (- 18.8 ± 3.6 at D1 vs - 20.8 ± 2.5 at D7; p = 0.003; and - 21.3 ± 4.9 at D1 vs - 24.3 ± 5.8 at D7; p = 0.035, respectively), whereas strain values remained unchanged in those who died. After adjustment for the SOFA score, RV longitudinal strain at admission was associated with in-hospital mortality [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.760; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.591-0.977; p - 0.033]. STE improved significantly after the first week of treatment in patients with sepsis who survived compared with those patients who died during hospitalization. RV strain at admission predicted in-hospital mortality. An improvement in STE during sepsis treatment appears to be a useful tool for predicting in-hospital outcome.