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Sharma SP, Sanz J, Hirsch A, Patel R, Constantinescu AA, Barghash M, Mancini DM, Brugts JJ, Caliskan K, Taverne YJHJ, Manintveld OC, Budde RPJ. Temporal changes in CT-derived fractional flow reserve in patients after heart transplantation. Eur Radiol 2024:10.1007/s00330-024-10932-z. [PMID: 39014089 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-024-10932-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adding functional information by CT-derived fractional flow reserve (FFRct) to coronary CT angiography (CCTA) and assessing its temporal change may provide insight into the natural history and physiopathology of cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) in heart transplantation (HTx) patients. We assessed FFRct changes as well as CAV progression over a 2-year period in HTx patients undergoing serial CT imaging. METHODS HTx patients from Erasmus MC and Mount Sinai Hospital, who had consecutive CCTAs 2 years apart were evaluated. FFRct analysis was performed for both scans. FFRct values at the most distal point in the left anterior descending (LAD), left circumflex (LCX), and right coronary artery (RCA) were measured after precisely matching the anatomical locations in both analyses. Also, the number of anatomical coronary stenoses of > 30% was scored. RESULTS In total, 106 patients (median age 57 [interquartile range 47-67] years, 67% male) at 9 [6-13] years after HTx at the time of the baseline CCTA were included. Median distal FFRct values significantly decreased from baseline to follow-up for the LAD from 0.85 [0.79-0.90] to 0.84 [0.76-0.90] (p = 0.001), LCX from 0.92 [0.88-0.96] to 0.91 [0.85-0.95] (p = 0.009), and RCA from 0.92 [0.86-0.95] to 0.90 [0.86-0.94] (p = 0.004). The number of focal anatomical stenoses of > 30% increased from a median of 1 [0-2] at baseline to 2 [0-3] at follow-up (p = 0.009). CONCLUSIONS The distal coronary FFRct values in post-HTX patients in each of the three major coronary arteries decreased, and the number of focal coronary stenoses increased over a 2-year period. Temporal FFRct change rate may become an additional parameter in the follow-up of HTx patients, but more research is needed to elucidate its role. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT CT-derived fractional flow reserve (FFRct) is important post-heart transplant because of additional information on coronary CT angiography for cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) detection. The decrease and degree of reduction in distal FFRct value may indicate progression in anatomic CAV burden. KEY POINTS CT-derived fractional flow reserve (FFRct) is important for monitoring cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) in heart transplant patients. Over time, transplant patients showed a decrease in distal FFRct and an increase in coronary stenoses. Temporal changes in FFRct could be crucial for transplant follow-up, aiding in CAV detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran P Sharma
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Centre, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Javier Sanz
- Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander Hirsch
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Centre, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Richa Patel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alina A Constantinescu
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Centre, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maya Barghash
- Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Donna M Mancini
- Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jasper J Brugts
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Centre, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kadir Caliskan
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Centre, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yannick J H J Taverne
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Olivier C Manintveld
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Centre, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus MC Transplant Institute, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ricardo P J Budde
- Department of Cardiology, Thorax Centre, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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Pergola V, Cameli M, Mattesi G, Mushtaq S, D’Andrea A, Guaricci AI, Pastore MC, Amato F, Dellino CM, Motta R, Perazzolo Marra M, Dellegrottaglie S, Pedrinelli R, Iliceto S, Nodari S, Perrone Filardi P, Pontone G. Multimodality Imaging in Advanced Heart Failure for Diagnosis, Management and Follow-Up: A Comprehensive Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:7641. [PMID: 38137711 PMCID: PMC10743799 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12247641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Advanced heart failure (AHF) presents a complex landscape with challenges spanning diagnosis, management, and patient outcomes. In response, the integration of multimodality imaging techniques has emerged as a pivotal approach. This comprehensive review delves into the profound significance of these imaging strategies within AHF scenarios. Multimodality imaging, encompassing echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), nuclear imaging and cardiac computed tomography (CCT), stands as a cornerstone in the care of patients with both short- and long-term mechanical support devices. These techniques facilitate precise device selection, placement, and vigilant monitoring, ensuring patient safety and optimal device functionality. In the context of orthotopic cardiac transplant (OTC), the role of multimodality imaging remains indispensable. Echocardiography offers invaluable insights into allograft function and potential complications. Advanced methods, like speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), empower the detection of acute cell rejection. Nuclear imaging, CMR and CCT further enhance diagnostic precision, especially concerning allograft rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy. This comprehensive imaging approach goes beyond diagnosis, shaping treatment strategies and risk assessment. By harmonizing diverse imaging modalities, clinicians gain a panoramic understanding of each patient's unique condition, facilitating well-informed decisions. The aim is to highlight the novelty and unique aspects of recently published papers in the field. Thus, this review underscores the irreplaceable role of multimodality imaging in elevating patient outcomes, refining treatment precision, and propelling advancements in the evolving landscape of advanced heart failure management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pergola
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy; (G.M.); (F.A.); (M.P.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Matteo Cameli
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Sienna, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.C.); (M.C.P.)
| | - Giulia Mattesi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy; (G.M.); (F.A.); (M.P.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Saima Mushtaq
- Department of Perioperative Cardiology and Cardiovascular Imaging, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (C.M.D.); (G.P.)
| | | | - Andrea Igoren Guaricci
- University Cardiology Unit, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, Policlinic University Hospital, 70121 Bari, Italy;
| | - Maria Concetta Pastore
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Sienna, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.C.); (M.C.P.)
| | - Filippo Amato
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy; (G.M.); (F.A.); (M.P.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Carlo Maria Dellino
- Department of Perioperative Cardiology and Cardiovascular Imaging, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (C.M.D.); (G.P.)
| | - Raffaella Motta
- Unit of Radiology, Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy;
| | - Martina Perazzolo Marra
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy; (G.M.); (F.A.); (M.P.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Santo Dellegrottaglie
- Division of Cardiology, Ospedale Medico-Chirurgico Accreditato Villa dei Fiori, 80011 Acerra, Italy;
| | - Roberto Pedrinelli
- Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Department, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Sabino Iliceto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, Via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy; (G.M.); (F.A.); (M.P.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Savina Nodari
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Institute of Cardiology, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Pasquale Perrone Filardi
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Federico II University of Naples, 80138 Naples, Italy;
| | - Gianluca Pontone
- Department of Perioperative Cardiology and Cardiovascular Imaging, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy; (S.M.); (C.M.D.); (G.P.)
- Department of Biomedical, Surgical and Sciences, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy
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Huang W, Liu X, Cheng P, Li Y, Zhou H, Liu Y, Dong Y, Wang P, Xu C, Xu X. Prognostic value of plaque volume combined with CT fractional flow reserve in patients with suspected coronary artery disease. Clin Radiol 2023; 78:e1048-e1056. [PMID: 37788967 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2023.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM To investigate the prognostic value of quantitative plaque volume on coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography (CTA) combined with CT fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS Patients who underwent coronary CTA with clinically suspected CAD were enrolled retrospectively in this study. Patients' baseline, Framingham Risk Score (FRS), coronary CTA plaque assessment, and CT-FFR were analysed retrospectively. Study outcomes included rehospitalisation and MACE (ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, unstable angina, or non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, revascularisation, and cardiac death). RESULTS There were 251 patients in the study, with a follow-up period of 1-6.58 years. Mean age was 61.16 ± 10.45 years and 146 (58%) patients were male. Higher CT-adapted Leaman score and quantitative plaque volume were found in patients with FRS >0.2 regardless of categorical or continuous variables. Coronary scores, quantitative plaque parameters, and CT-FFR were associated with MACE and rehospitalisation in univariate analysis. In model 1, CT-FFR was associated with MACE in multivariate Cox analysis when adjusted for FRS and CT-adapted Leaman score. Quantitative plaque parameters including calcified plaque volume, fibro-fatty plaque volume, low-attenuation plaque volume, non-calcified plaque volume, and total plaque volume were significantly associated with MACE and improved overall prognostic performance in a model adjusted for CT-FFR. CONCLUSION Additional quantitative plaque volume and CT-FFR further improve the predictive incremental value based on risk factor scores for prognostic prediction in patients. Adding quantitative plaque volume combined with CT-FFR analysis to anatomical and clinical assessment will be further beneficial to predict patients' prognosis of MACE.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Huang
- Department of Radiology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Yanhu Avenue, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430077, China
| | - X Liu
- Department of Radiology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Yanhu Avenue, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430077, China
| | - P Cheng
- Department of Radiology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Yanhu Avenue, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430077, China
| | - Y Li
- Department of Radiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Jianghan District, Wuhan 430022, China
| | - H Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Yanhu Avenue, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430077, China
| | - Y Liu
- Department of Radiology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Yanhu Avenue, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430077, China
| | - Y Dong
- Department of Radiology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Yanhu Avenue, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430077, China
| | - P Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Yanhu Avenue, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430077, China
| | - C Xu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biophysics of the Ministry of Education, Cardio-X Institute, College of Life Science and Technology and Center for Human Genome Research, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1037 Luoyu Road, Hongshan District, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - X Xu
- Department of Radiology, Liyuan Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 39 Yanhu Avenue, Wuchang District, Wuhan 430077, China.
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Pergola V, Mattesi G, Cozza E, Pradegan N, Tessari C, Dellino CM, Savo MT, Amato F, Cecere A, Perazzolo Marra M, Tona F, Guaricci AI, De Conti G, Gerosa G, Iliceto S, Motta R. New Non-Invasive Imaging Technologies in Cardiac Transplant Follow-Up: Acquired Evidence and Future Options. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2818. [PMID: 37685356 PMCID: PMC10487200 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13172818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart transplantation (HT) is the established treatment for end-stage heart failure, significantly enhancing patients' survival and quality of life. To ensure optimal outcomes, the routine monitoring of HT recipients is paramount. While existing guidelines offer guidance on a blend of invasive and non-invasive imaging techniques, certain aspects such as the timing of echocardiographic assessments and the role of echocardiography or cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) as alternatives to serial endomyocardial biopsies (EMBs) for rejection monitoring are not specifically outlined in the guidelines. Furthermore, invasive coronary angiography (ICA) is still recommended as the gold-standard procedure, usually performed one year after surgery and every two years thereafter. This review focuses on recent advancements in non-invasive and contrast-saving imaging techniques that have been investigated for HT patients. The aim of the manuscript is to identify imaging modalities that may potentially replace or reduce the need for invasive procedures such as ICA and EMB, considering their respective advantages and disadvantages. We emphasize the transformative potential of non-invasive techniques in elevating patient care. Advanced echocardiography techniques, including strain imaging and tissue Doppler imaging, offer enhanced insights into cardiac function, while CMR, through its multi-parametric mapping techniques, such as T1 and T2 mapping, allows for the non-invasive assessment of inflammation and tissue characterization. Cardiac computed tomography (CCT), particularly with its ability to evaluate coronary artery disease and assess graft vasculopathy, emerges as an integral tool in the follow-up of HT patients. Recent studies have highlighted the potential of nuclear myocardial perfusion imaging, including myocardial blood flow quantification, as a non-invasive method for diagnosing and prognosticating CAV. These advanced imaging approaches hold promise in mitigating the need for invasive procedures like ICA and EMB when evaluating the benefits and limitations of each modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pergola
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Giulia Mattesi
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Elena Cozza
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Nicola Pradegan
- Cardiac Surgery Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (N.P.); (C.T.); (G.G.)
| | - Chiara Tessari
- Cardiac Surgery Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (N.P.); (C.T.); (G.G.)
| | - Carlo Maria Dellino
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Maria Teresa Savo
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Filippo Amato
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Annagrazia Cecere
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Martina Perazzolo Marra
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Francesco Tona
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Andrea Igoren Guaricci
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, University Hospital “Policlinico” of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | | | - Gino Gerosa
- Cardiac Surgery Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy; (N.P.); (C.T.); (G.G.)
| | - Sabino Iliceto
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35128 Padua, Italy; (G.M.); (C.M.D.); (M.T.S.); (F.A.); (A.C.); (M.P.M.); (F.T.); (S.I.)
| | - Raffaella Motta
- Unit of Radiology, Department of Medicine, Medical School, University of Padua, 35122 Padua, Italy;
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Epicardial fat volume is related to the degree of cardiac allograft vasculopathy. Eur Radiol 2022; 33:330-338. [DOI: 10.1007/s00330-022-09029-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Increasing evidence suggests a role for epicardial fat in the development of coronary artery disease in the general population. Heart transplantation patients are at increased risk of developing a specific form of coronary artery disease, cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), which has far-reaching consequences in terms of morbidity and mortality. Until now, the role of epicardial fat volume (EFV) in the development of CAV remains unknown. Hence, we investigated the relationship between EFV and CAV as well as the influence of donor/recipient sex on EFV.
Methods
Adult heart transplant patients who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) for CAV screening who were four or more years post-HT were included. Using the CT examinations, we quantified the EFV and the degree of CAV. Ordinal and linear regression models were used to assess the association of EFV with CAV.
Results
In total, 149 (median age 44.5 years, 36% women) patients were included. The median time between HT and the CT scan was 11.0 (7.3–16.1) years. CAV grade 0, 1, 2 and 3 were seen in 85 (57%), 32 (22%), 14 (9%), and 18 (12%) patients, respectively. The median EFV was 208.4 (128.9–276.0) mL. Larger EFV were related to higher degrees of CAV (median of 164.7 to 290.6 mL for CAV grade 0 and 3, respectively, OR 5.23 (2.47–11.06), p < 0.001). Male recipients had significantly more EFV than female recipients irrespective of the donor sex (232.7 mL vs. 147.2 mL respectively, p < 0.001). Determinants for EFV were recipient sex, number of rejections, donor age, time between HT and CT scan, recipient BMI, and diabetes mellitus.
Conclusions
EFV was associated with higher degrees of CAV. The recipient sex influenced the EFV more than the donor sex.
Key Points
• Patients after heart transplantation have a high amount of epicardial fat while larger amounts of epicardial fat are related to higher grades of cardiac allograft vasculopathy.
• Determinants of higher epicardial fat volume included recipient sex, number of rejections, donor age, time between HT and CT scan, recipient BMI, and diabetes mellitus.
• Longitudinal studies are needed to further disentangle the role of epicardial fat in the development and progression of cardiac allograft vasculopathy.
Graphical abstract
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