Water and sodium in heart failure: a spotlight on congestion

The Relation of Calculated Plasma Volume Status to Sublingual Microcirculatory Blood Flow and Organ Injury

BACKGROUND

The calculated plasma volume status (cPVS) was validated as a surrogate of intravascular filling. The aim of this study is to assess the cPVS in relation to sublingual perfusion and organ injury.

METHODS

Pre- and postoperative cPVS were obtained by determining the actual and ideal plasma volume levels in surgical patients. The sublingual microcirculation was assessed using SDF imaging, and we determined the De Backer score, the Consensus Proportion of Perfused Vessels (Consensus PPV), and the Consensus PPV (small). Our primary outcome was the assessment of the distribution of cPVS and its association with intraoperative sublingual microcirculation and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

The median pre- and postoperative cPVS were -7.25% (IQR -14.29--1.88) and -0.4% (IQR -5.43-6.06), respectively (p < 0.001). The mean intraoperative administered fluid volume was 2.5 ± 2.5 L (1.14 L h^-1). No statistically significant correlation was observed between the pre- or postoperative cPVS and sublingual microcirculation variables. Higher preoperative (OR = 1.04, p = 0.098) and postoperative cPVS (OR = 1.057, p = 0.029) were associated with postoperative organ injury and complications (sepsis (30%), anemia (24%), respiratory failure (13%), acute kidney injury (6%), hypotension (6%), stroke (3%)).

CONCLUSIONS

The calculated PVS was associated with an increased risk of organ injury and complications in this cohort.

Thyrotoxic Cardiomyopathy: State of the Art

Thyroid hormones, mainly triiodothyronine, have genomic and non-genomic effects on cardiomyocytes related to the contractile function of the heart. Thyrotoxicosis, which is the set of signs and symptoms derived from the excess of circulating thyroid hormones, leads to increased cardiac output and decreased systemic vascular resistance, increasing the volume of circulating blood and causing systolic hypertension. In addition, the shortening of the refractory period of cardiomyocytes produces sinus tachycardia and atrial fibrillation. This leads to heart failure. Approximately 1% of patients with thyrotoxicosis develop thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy, a rare but potentially fatal form of dilated cardiomyopathy. Thyrotoxic cardiomyopathy represents a diagnosis of exclusion, and prompt identification is crucial as it is a reversible cause of heart failure, and heart function can be recovered after achieving a euthyroid state using antithyroid drugs. Radioactive iodine therapy and surgery are not the best initial therapeutic approach. Moreover, it is important to manage cardiovascular symptoms, for which beta blockers are the first-line therapeutic option.

Bedside Ultrasound for Hemodynamic Monitoring in Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

Thanks to the advances in medical therapy and assist devices, the management of patients hospitalized in cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) is becoming increasingly challenging. In fact, Patients in the cardiac intensive care unit are frequently characterized by dynamic and variable diseases, which may evolve into several clinical phenotypes based on underlying etiology and its complexity. Therefore, the use of noninvasive tools in order to provide a personalized approach to these patients, according to their phenotype, may help to optimize the therapeutic strategies towards the underlying etiology. Echocardiography is the most reliable and feasible bedside method to assess cardiac function repeatedly, assisting clinicians not only in characterizing hemodynamic disorders, but also in helping to guide interventions and monitor response to therapies. Beyond basic echocardiographic parameters, its application has been expanded with the introduction of new tools such as lung ultrasound (LUS), the Venous Excess UltraSound (VexUS) grading system, and the assessment of pulmonary hypertension, which is fundamental to guide oxygen therapy. The aim of this review is to provide an overview on the current knowledge about the pathophysiology and echocardiographic evaluation of perfusion and congestion in patients in CICU, and to provide practical indications for the use of echocardiography across clinical phenotypes and new applications in CICU.

Advances in congestive heart failure biomarkers

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly worldwide. Although many biomarkers associated with in heart failure, these are generally prognostic and identify patients with moderate and severe disease. Unfortunately, the role of biomarkers in decision making for early and advanced heart failure remains largely unexplored. Previous studies suggest the natriuretic peptides have the potential to improve the diagnosis of heart failure, but they still have significant limitations related to cut-off values. Although some promising cardiac biomarkers have emerged, comprehensive data from large cohort studies is lacking. The utility of multiple biomarkers that reflect various pathophysiologic pathways are increasingly being explored in heart failure risk stratification and to diagnose disease conditions promptly and accurately. MicroRNAs serve as mediators and/or regulators of renin-angiotensin-induced cardiac remodeling by directly targeting enzymes, receptors and signaling molecules. The role of miRNA in HF diagnosis is a promising area of research and further exploration may offer both diagnostic and prognostic applications and phenotype-specific targets. In this review, we provide insight into the classification of different biochemical and molecular markers associated with CHF, examine clinical usefulness in CHF and highlight the most clinically relevant.

Diagnostic utility of lung echography for congestive heart failure performed by junior resident doctors

Background

Dyspnea is a high priority symptom in the emergency department, with heart failure (HF) as one of its leading causes. Recently, the "comet tail sign (CTS)," a pulmonary ultrasonographic sign, has been proposed as an efficacious tool for detecting pulmonary edema. However, to the best of our knowledge, there have been no published data regarding its utility when performed by non-experts, including junior residents.

Methods

Between September 2017 and December 2018, patients with dyspnea, who were admitted to the ER, were enrolled. CTS was evaluated by junior residents at the ER. All patients were evaluated by cardiologists independently, and clinical HF was defined as requiring pharmacological intervention by a cardiologist. At the end of this study, we investigated the results of CTS, laboratory data, and available radiological images.

Results

A total of 95 patients were enrolled in the current study, wherein 42 patients were treated by cardiologists as those with clinical HF. Our results showed that CTS could identify clinical HF with a sensitivity of 71.4% and a specificity of 81.1%. The sensitivity of CTS against brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) (cut-off value, 100 pg/ml) was calculated at 92.5%. Furthermore, when evaluated together with peripheral edema, CTS identified clinical HF with a sensitivity of 96%. False positives for CTS included bilateral pneumonia, hypoalbuminemia, and interstitial pneumonitis.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that CTS is a simple and effective tool for the use of non-experts, including junior residents.

Suppression of Cardiogenic Edema with Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors in Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: Mechanisms and Insights from Pre-Clinical Studies

In heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), cardiogenic edema develops from impaired cardiac function, pathological remodeling, chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, neurohormonal activation, and altered nitric oxide-related pathways. Pre-clinical HFrEF studies have shown that treatment with sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) stimulates natriuretic and osmotic/diuretic effects, improves overall cardiac function, attenuates maladaptive cardiac remodeling, and reduces chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction. Here, we review the mechanisms and effects of SGLT-2i therapy on cardiogenic edema in various models of HFrEF. Overall, the data presented suggest a high translational importance of these studies, and pre-clinical studies show that SGLT-2i therapy has a marked effect on suppressing the progression of HFrEF through multiple mechanisms, including those that affect the development of cardiogenic edema.

From Oral to Subcutaneous Furosemide: The Road to Novel Opportunities to Manage Congestion

The steadily rising prevalence of heart failure (HF) and the associated increase in health care expenditures represent a significant burden for patients, caregivers, and society. Ambulatory management of worsening congestion is a complex undertaking that requires diuretic escalation, yet clinical success is often hindered by the progressively declining bioavailability of oral agents. Once beyond a threshold, patients with acute on chronic HF often require hospital admission for intravenous diuresis. A novel, pH neutral formulation of furosemide that is administered by a biphasic drug delivery profile (80 mg total over 5 ​hours) via an automated, on-body infusor was designed to overcome these limitations. Early studies have shown that it has equivalent bioavailability with comparable diuresis and natriuresis to the intravenous formulation, leads to significant decongestion, and improvement in quality of life. It was shown to be safe and is well tolerated by patients. Although there is one ongoing clinical trial, available data have demonstrated the potential to shift hospital-administered, intravenous diuresis to the outpatient setting. Reduction in the need for recurrent hospital admissions would be highly desirable by most patients with chronic HF and would lead to a significant reduction in health care expenditures. In this article, we describe the rationale and evolution of this novel PH neutral formulation of furosemide administered subcutaneously, summarize its pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles, and review emerging clinical trials demonstrating its clinical safety, efficacy, and potential to reduce health care expenditures.

The Effects of Exercise-Based Interventions on Fluid Overload Symptoms in Patients with Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Patients with heart failure are subjected to a substantial burden related to fluid overload symptoms. Exercise can help the lymphatic system function more effectively to prevent fluid build-up in tissues and interstitium, thus potentially mitigating the symptoms due to fluid overload. The objective of this systematic review was to examine the effects of exercise-based interventions on fluid overload symptoms among patients with heart failure. MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL databases were systematically searched for relevant studies published from inception to August 2021. We included randomized controlled trials that compared exercise-based interventions of different modalities and usual medical care for adult patients with heart failure and reported the effects of interventions on any symptoms related to fluid overload. A random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the effectiveness, and a subgroup analysis and univariate meta-regression analysis were used to explore heterogeneity. Seventeen studies covering 1086 participants were included. We found robust evidence indicating the positive effect of exercises in dyspnea relief (SMD = -0.48; 95%CI [-0.76, -0.19]; p = 0.001); the intervention length also influenced the treatment effect (β = 0.033; 95%CI [0.003, 0.063]; p = 0.04). Initial evidence from existing limited research showed that exercise-based intervention had positive effect to alleviate edema, yet more studies are needed to verify the effect. In contrast, the exercise-based interventions did not improve fatigue compared with usual care (SMD = -0.27; 95%CI [-0.61, 0.06]; p = 0.11). Findings regarding the effects of exercises on bodily pain, gastro-intestinal symptoms, and peripheral circulatory symptoms were inconclusive due to limited available studies. In conclusion, exercise-based interventions can be considered as an effective nonpharmacological therapy for patients with heart failure to promote lymph flow and manage fluid overload symptoms. Exercise-based interventions seem to have very limited effect on fatigue. More research should investigate the mechanism of fatigue related to heart failure. Future studies with high methodological quality and comprehensive assessment of symptoms and objective measure of fluid overload are warranted.

Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors Improve Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction Outcomes by Reducing Edema and Congestion

Pathological sodium-water retention or edema/congestion is a primary cause of heart failure (HF) decompensation, clinical symptoms, hospitalization, reduced quality of life, and premature mortality. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT-2i) based therapies reduce hospitalization due to HF, improve functional status, quality, and duration of life in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) independently of their glycemic status. The pathophysiologic mechanisms and molecular pathways responsible for the benefits of SGLT-2i in HFrEF remain inconclusive, but SGLT-2i may help HFrEF by normalizing salt-water homeostasis to prevent clinical edema/congestion. In HFrEF, edema and congestion are related to compromised cardiac function. Edema and congestion are further aggravated by renal and pulmonary abnormalities. Treatment of HFrEF patients with SGLT-2i enhances natriuresis/diuresis, improves cardiac function, and reduces natriuretic peptide plasma levels. In this review, we summarize current clinical research studies related to outcomes of SGLT-2i treatment in HFrEF with a specific focus on their contribution to relieving or preventing edema and congestion, slowing HF progression, and decreasing the rate of rehospitalization and cardiovascular mortality.

Relation of Intravascular Volume Profiles to Heart Failure Progression and Clinical Outcomes

Heart failure (HF) commonly progresses over time and identifying differences in volume profiles may help stratify risk and guide therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the pathophysiologic and prognostic roles of volume profiles for HF progression in stable ambulatory and hospitalized patients. HF patients who had undergone quantitative intravascular volume analysis (185 outpatients and 139 inpatients) were retrospectively assessed for the combined end point of HF-related hospital admissions (outpatients), HF-readmissions (inpatients), and overall all-cause mortality. After multivariate Cox regression analysis, greater total blood volume expansion was associated with higher risk of HF-admission in previously stable outpatients (HR: 1.023, CI 1.005 to 1.043; p = 0.013) while in more advanced HF (inpatients) total blood volume expansion was associated with lower risk for HF-readmission and mortality (HR: 0.982, CI 0.967 to 0.997; p = 0.017). Secondary analysis suggests that subclinical plasma volume expansion was a driving factor for the detrimental association in outpatients (HR: 1.018, CI 0.997 to 1.036; p = 0.054), while an increase in red blood cell mass was central to the beneficial association in advanced HF (HR: 0.979, CI 0.968 to 0.991; p <0.001). In conclusion, understanding differences in plasma volume and red blood cell mass profiles can provide insight into the pathophysiology and progression of HF.

The impact of diabetes on heart failure development: The cardio-renal-metabolic connection

Heart failure (HF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are often associated in type 2 diabetes (T2D), aggravate each other and exert synergistic effects to increase the risk of cardiac and renal events. The risks of renal worsening in HF patients and HF in CKD patients need to be evaluated to tailor preventive therapy. The recent CV and renal trials enriched our knowledge about the natural history of HF and CKD in T2D and provided evidence for the benefit of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) in HF and renal decline prevention. SGLT-2is are the best choice in patients with HFrEF to improve CV prognosis and HF-related outcomes and also to prevent kidney-related outcomes, and in CKD patients to slow down renal failure and also reduce hospitalization for HF and CV death. In both situations the number of patients to treat in order to prevent such events in one patient is lower than in the general T2D population at high CV risk. GLP1-receptor agonists could be an alternative in a patient who is intolerant or has a contraindication to SGLT-2is. A tight collaboration between diabetologists, nephrologists and cardiologists should be encouraged for a holistic and effective strategy to reduce the burden of cardio-renal-metabolic interaction.

Bioimpedance vector analysis in stable chronic heart failure patients: Level of agreement between single and multiple frequency devices

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The accuracy of estimating body composition compartments is critical in the clinical setting. Currently, there are different bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) devices available for obtaining raw BIA parameters. The aim of this study was to determine the level of agreement between multiple frequency (MF)-BIA and single frequency (SF)-BIA devices in obtaining raw BIA measurements (resistance (R), reactance (Xc), and phase angle (PhA)), as well as the agreement on the classification of hydration status and body cell mass by the bioelectrical impedance vector analysis (BIVA) method.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 406 outpatients with stable chronic heart failure (HF). The raw BIA measurements at 50 kHz obtained by tetrapolar MF-BIA (Bodystat QuadScan 4000) were compared with those obtained by tetrapolar SF-BIA (RJL Quantum X). In addition, the patients were classified by their hydration status and body cell mass according to the BIVA method.

RESULTS

Strong and significant correlations were observed between the two methods in all raw BIA variables (r ≥ 0.90). Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) values were almost perfect for R (CCC = 0.99; 95% CI 0.997 to 0.998), moderate for Xc (CCC = 0.93; 95% CI 0.92 to 0.94), and poor for PhA (CCC = 0.88; 95% CI 0.85 to 0.90). The agreement obtained in the two classifications (quadrants and hydration status) was >0.81.

CONCLUSIONS

MF-BIA and SF-BIA demonstrated good agreement for measurement of the R parameter; however, the Xc and PhA parameters must be used carefully due to the previously reported variability. Likewise, the agreement in all classifications by the BIVA method was almost perfect.

Calculated plasma volume status and outcomes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Aims

This study investigated the prognostic value of plasma volume status (PVS) in patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

Methods and results

Plasma volume status was calculated in 2588 patients who underwent TAVR using data from the Japanese multicentre registry. All‐cause mortality and heart failure hospitalization (HFH) within 2 years of TAVR were compared among the PVS quartiles (Q1, PVS < 5.5%; Q2, PVS 5.5–13.5%; Q3, PVS 13.5–21.0%; and Q4, PVS ≥ 21.0%). Subgroups were stratified by the PVS cut‐off value combined with the New York Heart Association (NYHA) class as follows: low PVS with NYHA I/II (n = 959), low PVS with NYHA III/IV (n = 845), high PVS with NYHA I/II (n = 308), and high PVS with NYHA III/IV (n = 476). The cumulative all‐cause mortality and HFH within 2 years of TAVR significantly increased with increasing PVS quartiles [8.5%, 16.8%, 19.2%, and 27.0% (P < 0.001) and 5.8%, 8.7%, 10.3%, and 12.9% (P < 0.001), respectively]. The high‐PVS group regardless of the NYHA class had a higher all‐cause mortality and HFH [9.6%, 18.2%, 24.5%, and 30.4% (P < 0.001) and 6.1%, 10.4%, 14.1%, and 11.3% (P < 0.001)]. In a Cox regression multivariate analysis, the PVS values of Q3 and Q4 had independently increased all‐cause mortality [hazard ratio (HR), 1.50 and 1.64 (P = 0.017 and P = 0.008), respectively], and Q4 had independently increased HFH (HR, 1.98, P = 0.005). The low PVS with NYHA III/IV, high PVS with NYHA I/II, and high PVS with NYHA III/IV also had significantly increased all‐cause mortality [HR, 1.45, 1.73, and 1.86 (P = 0.006, P = 0.002, and P < 0.001), respectively] and HFH [HR, 1.52, 2.21, and 1.70 (P = 0.049, P = 0.002, and P = 0.031), respectively].

Conclusions

Plasma volume status is useful for predicting all‐cause mortality and HFH after TAVR.

[The use of diuretics in chronic heart failure. Position paper of the Russian Heart Failure Society]

The document focuses on key issues of diuretic therapy in CHF from the standpoint of current views on the pathogenesis of edema syndrome, its diagnosis, and characteristics of using diuretics in various clinical situations.

Estimated plasma volume status in heart failure: clinical implications and future directions

Congestion is one of the main predictors of poor outcome in patients with heart failure (HF). Assessing and monitoring congestion is essential for optimizing HF therapy. Among the various available methods, serial measurements of estimated plasma volume (ePVS) using routine blood count and/or body weight (e.g., the Strauss, Duarte, Hakim formulas) may be useful in HF management. Further prospective study is warranted to determine whether ePVS can help optimize decongestion therapy (loop diuretics, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, SGLT2i) in various HF settings. This narrative review summarizes the recent evidence supporting the association of ePVS with clinical congestion and outcome(s) and discusses future directions for monitoring ePVS in HF.

Prediction and measurement of diuretic responsiveness after oral administration of furosemide to healthy dogs and dogs with congestive heart failure

Background

In human patients, cumulative urine volume (uVol) and urine sodium (uNa) can be predicted using spot urine samples and these quantitative measures help detect low diuretic responsiveness (LDR).

Hypothesis/objectives

Formulas using spot urine samples predict cumulative uVol and uNa output after oral administration of furosemide to dogs.

Animals

Eight healthy dogs, 6 dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF).

Methods

Prospective interventional study. Spot urine samples at 180 and 270 minutes after furosemide (3 mg/kg PO) were used to predict cumulative uVol and uNa output over 7 hours. Differentiation of dogs fulfilling predefined criteria for LDR was examined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

Predicted uNa output at 180 minutes (r_s = 0.763, [95% confidence interval [CI], 0.375‐0.923], P = .002) and 270 minutes (r = 0.816, [95% CI, 0.503‐0.940], P < .001) was highly correlated to 7‐hour uNa output. Predicted uVol at 180 minutes (r = 0.598, [95% CI, 0.098‐0.857], P = .02) and 270 minutes (r = 0.791, [95% CI, 0.450‐0.931], P < .001) was moderately correlated to 7‐hour uVol. Predicted uNa using 180‐minute (area under the curve [AUC], 0.933 [95% CI, 0.804‐1.000]) and 270‐minute (AUC, 0.911 [95% CI, 0.756‐1.000]) samples identified dogs with LDR (n = 5) with high accuracy.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Urinary Na excretion and uVol are complementary but distinct aspects of diuretic responsiveness in dogs. Quantification of diuretic responsiveness in the clinical setting opens new diagnostic, treatment, and monitoring strategies.

Current animal models for the study of congestion in heart failure: an overview

Congestion (i.e., backward failure) is an important culprit mechanism driving disease progression in heart failure. Nevertheless, congestion remains often underappreciated and clinicians underestimate the importance of congestion on the pathophysiology of decompensation in heart failure. In patients, it is however difficult to study how isolated congestion contributes to organ dysfunction, since heart failure and chronic kidney disease very often coexist in the so-called cardiorenal syndrome. Here, we review the existing relevant and suitable backward heart failure animal models to induce congestion, induced in the left- (i.e., myocardial infarction, rapid ventricular pacing) or right-sided heart (i.e., aorta-caval shunt, mitral valve regurgitation, and monocrotaline), and more specific animal models of congestion, induced by saline infusion or inferior vena cava constriction. Next, we examine critically how representative they are for the clinical situation. After all, a relevant animal model of isolated congestion offers the unique possibility of studying the effects of congestion in heart failure and the cardiorenal syndrome, separately from forward failure (i.e., impaired cardiac output). In this respect, new treatment options can be discovered.

Acute heart failure

Acute heart failure (AHF) is a syndrome defined as the new onset (de novo heart failure (HF)) or worsening (acutely decompensated heart failure (ADHF)) of symptoms and signs of HF, mostly related to systemic congestion. In the presence of an underlying structural or functional cardiac dysfunction (whether chronic in ADHF or undiagnosed in de novo HF), one or more precipitating factors can induce AHF, although sometimes de novo HF can result directly from the onset of a new cardiac dysfunction, most frequently an acute coronary syndrome. Despite leading to similar clinical presentations, the underlying cardiac disease and precipitating factors may vary greatly and, therefore, the pathophysiology of AHF is highly heterogeneous. Left ventricular diastolic or systolic dysfunction results in increased preload and afterload, which in turn lead to pulmonary congestion. Fluid retention and redistribution result in systemic congestion, eventually causing organ dysfunction due to hypoperfusion. Current treatment of AHF is mostly symptomatic, centred on decongestive drugs, at best tailored according to the initial haemodynamic status with little regard to the underlying pathophysiological particularities. As a consequence, AHF is still associated with high mortality and hospital readmission rates. There is an unmet need for increased individualization of in-hospital management, including treatments targeting the causative factors, and continuation of treatment after hospital discharge to improve long-term outcomes.

Calculated plasma volume status and outcomes in patients undergoing coronary bypass graft surgery

OBJECTIVES

Congestion is associated with worse outcomes in critically ill surgical patients but can be difficult to quantify noninvasively. We hypothesised that plasma volume status (PVS), estimated preoperatively using a validated formula that enumerates percentage change from ideal plasma volume (PV), would provide incremental prognostic utility after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, patients who underwent CABG surgery (1999-2010) were identified from a prospectively collected database. Actual ([1-haematocrit] x [a+(b x weight [kg])]) and ideal (c x weight [kg]) PV were obtained from equations where a, b and c are sex-dependent constants. Calculated PVS was then derived (100% x [(actual-ideal)/ideal]).

RESULTS

In 1887 patients (mean age 67±10 years; 79% male; median European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation [EuroSCORE] 4), mean PVS was -8.2±9%. While 8% of subjects had clinical evidence of congestion, a relatively increased PV (PVS >0%) was estimated in 17% and correlated with lower serum sodium, higher EuroSCORE and a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. A PVS≥5.6% was optimally prognostic and associated with greater mortality (HR: 2.31, p=0.009), independently of, and incremental to, EuroSCORE, New York Heart Association class and serum sodium. A PVS≥5.6% also independently predicted longer intensive care (β: 0.65, p=0.007) and hospital (β: 2.01, p=0.006) stays, and greater postoperative renal (OR: 1.61, p=0.008) and arrhythmic (OR: 1.29, p=0.03) complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher PVS values, calculated simply from weight and haematocrit, are associated with worse inpatient outcomes after CABG. PVS could help refine risk stratification and further investigations are warranted to evaluate the potential clinical utility of PVS-guided management in patients undergoing CABG.

Device-detected congestion is associated with worse patient-reported outcomes in heart failure

BACKGROUND

Congestion is a common cause of symptoms in heart failure (HF). Yet, intrathoracic impedance, an objective marker of cardiopulmonary congestion, has not been examined in relation to HF symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether device-detected cardiopulmonary congestion is a predictor of physical and psychological symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in adults with HF over 3 months.

METHODS

Multivariate generalized linear modeling was used to quantify the association of cardiopulmonary congestion (Optivol^® Index exceeding 60 Ω threshold) with HRQOL (12-item Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire) and both physical symptoms (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue Scale; HF Somatic Perception Scale Dyspnea and Early & Subtle Symptoms subscales) and affective symptoms (9-item Patient Health Questionnaire; 6-item Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Anxiety Scale).

RESULTS

The mean age of the sample (n = 49) was 62years old, 39% were women, and 63% had NYHA class III/IV HF. Participants who experienced threshold crossings in the previous 90days reported on average, 130% higher dyspnea (p = 0.017; confidence interval (CI) 10.2%, 437%), 40% higher early & subtle symptoms (p = 0.029; CI 3.4%, 89.7%), 106% higher depressive symptoms (p = 0.003; CI 19.1%, 257%) and 40% higher anxiety (p = 0.028; CI 3.7%, 89.1%). Threshold crossings in the previous 90days were also significantly associated with a clinically meaningful decrease in HRQOL (β = -16.16 ± 6.32; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Intrathoracic impedance measured with the Optivol Index can provide additional information regarding the patient experience of hallmark physical and psychological HF symptoms and HRQOL over 3months.

The use of diuretics in heart failure with congestion - a position statement from the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology

The vast majority of acute heart failure episodes are characterized by increasing symptoms and signs of congestion with volume overload. The goal of therapy in those patients is the relief of congestion through achieving a state of euvolaemia, mainly through the use of diuretic therapy. The appropriate use of diuretics however remains challenging, especially when worsening renal function, diuretic resistance and electrolyte disturbances occur. This position paper focuses on the use of diuretics in heart failure with congestion. The manuscript addresses frequently encountered challenges, such as (i) evaluation of congestion and clinical euvolaemia, (ii) assessment of diuretic response/resistance in the treatment of acute heart failure, (iii) an approach towards stepped pharmacologic diuretic strategies, based upon diuretic response, and (iv) management of common electrolyte disturbances. Recommendations are made in line with available guidelines, evidence and expert opinion.

Organ dysfunction, injury and failure in acute heart failure: from pathophysiology to diagnosis and management. A review on behalf of the Acute Heart Failure Committee of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)

Organ injury and impairment are commonly observed in patients with acute heart failure (AHF), and congestion is an essential pathophysiological mechanism of impaired organ function. Congestion is the predominant clinical profile in most patients with AHF; a smaller proportion presents with peripheral hypoperfusion or cardiogenic shock. Hypoperfusion further deteriorates organ function. The injury and dysfunction of target organs (i.e. heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, intestine, brain) in the setting of AHF are associated with increased risk for mortality. Improvement in organ function after decongestive therapies has been associated with a lower risk for post-discharge mortality. Thus, the prevention and correction of organ dysfunction represent a therapeutic target of interest in AHF and should be evaluated in clinical trials. Treatment strategies that specifically prevent, reduce or reverse organ dysfunction remain to be identified and evaluated to determine if such interventions impact mortality, morbidity and patient-centred outcomes. This paper reflects current understanding among experts of the presentation and management of organ impairment in AHF and suggests priorities for future research to advance the field.

Plasma volume status predicts prognosis in patients with acute heart failure syndromes

Background:

The intravascular compartment is known as the plasma volume, and the extravascular compartment represents fluid within the interstitial space. Plasma volume expansion is a major symptom of heart failure. The aim of the current study was to investigate the impact of plasma volume status on the prognosis of acute heart failure syndromes.

Methods and results:

We analyzed 1115 patients with acute heart failure syndromes who were admitted to our hospital. These patients were divided into three groups based on their plasma volume status at admission: first tertile (plasma volume status <41.9%, n = 371), second tertile (41.9%⩽ plasma volume status <49.0%, n = 372), and third tertile (49.0%⩽ plasma volume status, n = 372). Plasma volume status was defined as follows: actual plasma volume = (1 − hematocrit) × [ a + ( b × body weight)] ( a=1530 in males and a=864 in females, b=41.0 in males and b=47.9 in females); ideal plasma volume = c × body weight ( c=39 in males and c=40 in females); and plasma volume status = [(actual plasma volume − ideal plasma volume)/ideal plasma volume] × 100 (%). In the Kaplan–Meier analysis, all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality and cardiac events increased progressively from the first to third tertile ( p <0.001, respectively). In the Cox proportional hazard analysis, after adjusting for potential confounding factors, plasma volume status was an independent predictor of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 1.429, p < 0.001), cardiac mortality (hazard ratio 1.416, p = 0.001) and cardiac events (hazard ratio 1.207, p = 0.004).

Conclusion:

Increased congestion is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in heart failure patients. Plasma volume status, which represents intravascular compartment and congestion, can identify poor prognosis in patients with acute heart failure syndromes.

Fluid status and outcome in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction

BACKGROUND

Most heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) patients, at some point, present to an emergency department with typical symptoms of volume overload. Clinically, most respond well to standard diuretic therapy, sometimes at the cost of renal function. The study sought to define the prognostic significance of fluid status versus renal function in patients with HFpEF.

METHODS

One hundred sixty-two consecutive patients with HFpEF were enrolled in our prospective registry. Twelve patients with clinically overt decompensation were excluded. Fluid status at baseline was determined by bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy. The primary outcome measure was a combined end point consisting of hospitalization for heart failure and/or death for cardiac reason.

RESULTS

Mean age was 74.4±8.4years. Ninety-one (61%) patients were hypo- or normovolemic (relative fluid overload [Rel. FO] -0.7±5.7%) while 59 (39%) patients presented with fluid overload (Rel. FO 11.5±2.7%). During a median follow-up of 24.3months (interquartile range: 19.8-33.2), 34% of patients reached the combined end point. Multivariate Cox hazard analysis identified fluid overload (hazard ratio: 3.09; 95% confidence interval: 1.68-5.68; p<0.001) as an independent predictor of adverse outcome. Patients with fluid overload and normal renal function showed a worse event-free survival compared to the subgroup with normohydration and impaired renal function (log-rank: p=0.042).

CONCLUSION

HFpEF patients with measurable fluid overload face a dismal prognosis as compared to euvolemic patients. Our data, while preliminary, suggest that patients with fluid overload may face a better outcome under continued fluid removal irrespective of changes in eGFR.

Fluid restriction in patients with heart failure: how should we think?

BACKGROUND/AIM

Fluid restriction has long been considered one of the cornerstones in self-care management of patients with heart failure. The aim of this discussion paper is to discuss fluid restriction in heart failure and propose advice about fluid intake in heart failure patients.

RESULTS

Although there have been seven randomised studies on fluid restriction in heart failure patients, the effect of fluid restriction on its own were only evaluated in two studies. In both studies, a stringent fluid restriction compared to a liberal fluid intake was not more beneficial with regard to clinical stability or body weight. In the other studies fluid restriction was part of a larger study intervention including, for example, individualised dietary recommendations and follow-up by telephone. Thus, the effect of fluid restriction on its own has been poorly evaluated.

CONCLUSION

Fluid restriction should not be recommended to all heart failure patients. However, temporary fluid restriction can be considered in decompensated heart failure and/or patients with hyponatremia. Tailored fluid restriction based on body weight (30 ml/kg per day) seems to be most reasonable. To increase adherence to temporary fluid restriction, education, support and planned evaluations can be recommended.

Blood urea nitrogen to creatinine ratio is associated with congestion and mortality in heart failure patients with renal dysfunction

Renal dysfunction (RD) and venous congestion are related and common in heart failure (HF). Studies suggest that venous congestion may be the primary driver of RD in HF. In this study, we sought to investigate retrospectively the relationship between common measures of renal function with caval congestion and mortality among outpatients with HF and RD. We reviewed data from 103 HF outpatients (45 males, mean age 74 years, ejection fraction 41.8 ± 11.6 %) with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of < 60 ml/min in a single centre. During an ambulatory visit, all patients underwent blood test and ultrasonography of the inferior vena cava (IVC). Caval congestion was defined as IVC with both dilatation and impaired collapsibility. The best values of renal metrics in predicting caval congestion were determined with receiver-operating characteristic analysis. The BUN/Cr ratio is moderately correlated with IVC expiratory maximum diameter (r = 0.31, p < 0.0007). In a multiple logistic regression model, BUN/Cr > 25.5 (adjusted OR 2.98, p 0.015) and eGFR ≤ 45.8 (adjusted OR 5.38, p 0.002) identify patients at risk for caval congestion; a BUN/Cr > 23.7 was the best predictor of impaired collapsibility (adjusted OR 4.41, p 0.001). a BUN/Cr > 25.5 (HR 2.19, 95 % CI 1.21-3.94, p < 0.001) and NYHA class 3 (HR 2.91, 95 % CI 1.60-5.31, p < 0.0005) were independent risk factors associated with all-cause death during a median follow-up of 31 months. In outpatients with HF and RD, a higher BUN/Cr and lower eGFR are reliable renal biomarkers for caval congestion. The BUN/Cr is associated with long-term mortality and may help to stratify HF severity.

Loop diuretics in acute heart failure: beyond the decongestive relief for the kidney

Current goals in the acute treatment of heart failure are focused on pulmonary and systemic decongestion with loop diuretics as the cornerstone of therapy. Despite rapid relief of symptoms in patients with acute decompensated heart failure, after intravenous use of loop diuretics, the use of these agents has been consistently associated with adverse events, including hypokalemia, azotemia, hypotension, and increased mortality. Two recent randomized trials have shown that continuous infusions of loop diuretics did not offer benefit but were associated with adverse events, including hyponatremia, prolonged hospital stay, and increased rate of readmissions. This is probably due to the limitations of congestion evaluation as well as to the deleterious effects linked to drug administration, particularly at higher dosage. The impaired renal function often associated with this treatment is not extensively explored and could deserve more specific studies. Several questions remain to be answered about the best diuretic modality administration, global clinical impact during acute and post-discharge period, and the role of renal function deterioration during treatment. Thus, if loop diuretics are a necessary part of the treatment for acute heart failure, then there must be an approach that allows personalization of therapy for optimal benefit and avoidance of adverse events.