Adult congenital heart disease importance of the right ventricle

Quantitative evaluation of right ventricular myocardial function changes in patients with atrial septal defect before and after occlusion by noninvasive right ventricular pressure-strain loop

OBJECTIVE

The noninvasive right ventricular pressure-strain loop (PSL) represents a novel method for the quantitative assessment of right ventricular myocardial function. Given that atrial septal defect (ASD) is a prevalent congenital heart anomaly associated with right ventricular volume overload, this study aimed to quantitatively assess the myocardial function of the right ventricle in ASD patients pre- and post-occlusion by noninvasive right ventricular PSL.

METHODS

This study included 36 patients diagnosed with secundum ASD group and 30 healthy adults (control group). We compared conventional right ventricular echocardiographic parameters, right ventricular strain, and myocardial work in the ASD group before occlusion, two days post-occlusion, and three months post-occlusion, with those in the control group.

RESULTS

Prior to and two days following occlusion, the ASD group exhibited higher right ventricular global work index (RVGWI), right ventricular global wasted work (RVGWW), and right ventricular global constructive work (RVGCW) compared to the control group (P < .05). Within the ASD group, post-occlusion, RVGWI, RVGCW, and RVGWW values were significantly reduced compared to pre-occlusion values (P < .001). Furthermore, RVGWI and RVGCW showed a significant decrease three months after occlusion compared to two days post-occlusion (P < .05). Multivariate regression analysis identified ASD diameter and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) as independent predictors of RVGWI (β = .405, P < .001; β = 2.307, P = .037) and RVGCW(β = .350, P<.001; β = 1.967, P = .023).

CONCLUSIONS

The noninvasive right ventricular PSL effectively demonstrates the alterations in right ventricular myocardial function in ASD patients, pre- and post-occlusion. The metrics of right ventricular myocardial work (RVMW) offer a novel indicator for evaluating right ventricular myocardial function in these patients. Moreover, ASD diameter and PASP emerge as independent determinants of RVGWI and RVGCW.

Accuracy and Efficacy of Artificial Intelligence-Derived Automatic Measurements of Transthoracic Echocardiography in Routine Clinical Practice

Background: Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the gold standard modality for evaluating cardiac morphology, function, and hemodynamics in clinical practice. While artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to contribute to improved accuracy and is being applied clinically, its impact on daily clinical practice has not been fully evaluated. Methods: We retrospectively examined 30 consecutive patients who underwent AI-equipped TTE at a single institution. All patients underwent manual and automatic measurements of TTE parameters using the AI-equipped TTE. Measurements were performed by three sonographers with varying experience levels: beginner, intermediate, and expert. Results: A comparison between the manual and automatic measurements assessed by the experts showed extremely high agreement in the left ventricular (LV) filling velocities (E wave: r = 0.998, A wave: r = 0.996; both p < 0.001). The automated measurements of LV end-diastolic and end-systolic diameters were slightly smaller (-2.41 mm and -1.19 mm) than the manual measurements, although without significant differences, and both methods showing high agreement (r = 0.942 and 0.977, both p < 0.001). However, LV wall thickness showed low agreement between the automated and manual measurements (septum: r = 0.670, posterior: r = 0.561; both p < 0.01), with automated measurements tending to be larger. Regarding interobserver variabilities, statistically significant agreement was observed among the measurements of expert, intermediate, and beginner sonographers for all the measurements. In terms of measurement time, automatic measurement significantly reduced measurement time compared to manual measurement (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This preliminary study confirms the accuracy and efficacy of AI-equipped TTE in routine clinical practice. A multicenter study with a larger sample size is warranted.

Position Statement on the Use of Myocardial Strain in Cardiology Routines by the Brazilian Society of Cardiology's Department Of Cardiovascular Imaging - 2023

Central Illustration : Position Statement on the Use of Myocardial Strain in Cardiology Routines by the Brazilian Society of Cardiology's Department Of Cardiovascular Imaging - 2023 Proposal for including strain in the integrated diastolic function assessment algorithm, adapted from Nagueh et al.67 Am: mitral A-wave duration; Ap: reverse pulmonary A-wave duration; DD: diastolic dysfunction; LA: left atrium; LASr: LA strain reserve; LVGLS: left ventricular global longitudinal strain; TI: tricuspid insufficiency. Confirm concentric remodeling with LVGLS. In LVEF, mitral E wave deceleration time < 160 ms and pulmonary S-wave < D-wave are also parameters of increased filling pressure. This algorithm does not apply to patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), mitral annulus calcification, > mild mitral valve disease, left bundle branch block, paced rhythm, prosthetic valves, or severe primary pulmonary hypertension.

Free-Breathing and Single-Breath Hold Compressed Sensing Real-Time MRI of Right Ventricular Function in Children with Congenital Heart Disease

(1) Purpose: to compare right ventricular (RV) functional parameters in children with surgically repaired congenital heart disease (CHD) using single/double breath hold (BH) and free-breathing (FB) real-time compressed sensing (CS) cine cardiac magnetic resonance (cMRI) with standard retrospective segmented multi breath hold (RMB) cine cMRI. (2) Methods: Twenty patients with CHD underwent BH and FB, as well as RMB cine cMRI, at 3T to obtain a stack of continuous axial images of the RV. Two radiologists independently performed qualitative analysis of the image quality (rated on a 5-point scale; 1 = non-diagnostic to 5 = excellent) and quantitative analysis of the RV volume measurements. (3) Results: The best image quality was provided by RMB (4.5; range 2-5) compared to BH (3.9; range 3-5; p = 0.04) and FB (3.6; range 3-5; p < 0.01). The RV functional parameters were comparable among BH, FB, and RMB with a difference of less than 5%. The scan times for BH (44 ± 38 s, p < 0.01) and FB (24 ± 7 s, p < 0.01) were significantly reduced compared to for RMB (261 ± 68 s). (4) Conclusions: CS-FB and CS-BH real-time cine cMRI in children with CHD provides diagnostic image quality with excellent accuracy for measuring RV function with a significantly reduced scan time compared to RMB.

Maternal Outcomes Among Pregnant Women With Congenital Heart Disease-Associated Pulmonary Hypertension

BACKGROUND

Studies focused on pregnant women with congenital heart disease (CHD)-associated pulmonary hypertension (PH) are scarce and limited by small sample sizes and single-center design. This study sought to describe the pregnancy outcomes in women with CHD with and without PH.

METHODS

Outcomes for pregnant women with CHD were evaluated retrospectively from 1993 to 2016 and prospectively from 2017 to 2019 from 7 tertiary hospitals. PH was diagnosed on the basis of echocardiogram or catheterization. The incidence of maternal death, cardiac complications, and obstetric and offspring complications was compared for women with CHD and no PH, mild, and moderate-to-severe PH.

RESULTS

A total of 2220 pregnant women with CHD had completed pregnancies. PH associated with CHD was identified in 729 women, including 398 with mild PH (right ventricle to right atrium gradient 30-50 mm Hg) and 331 with moderate-to-severe PH (right ventricle to right atrium gradient >50 mm Hg). Maternal mortality occurred in 1 (0.1%), 0, and 19 (5.7%) women with CHD and no, mild, or moderate-to-severe PH, respectively. Of the 729 patients with PH, 619 (85%) had CHD-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension, and 110 (15%) had other forms of PH. Overall, patients with mild PH had better maternal outcomes than those with moderate-to-severe PH, including the incidence of maternal mortality or heart failure (7.8% versus 39.6%; P<0.001), other cardiac complications (9.0% versus 32.3%; P<0.001), and obstetric complications (5.3% versus 15.7%; P<0.001). Brain natriuretic peptide >100 ng/L (odds ratio, 1.9 [95% CI, 1.0-3.4], P=0.04) and New York Heart Association class III to IV (odds ratio, 2.9 [95% CI, 1.6-5.3], P<0.001) were independently associated with adverse maternal cardiac events in pregnancy with PH, whereas follow-up with a multidisciplinary team (odds ratio, 0.4 [95% CI, 0.2-0.6], P<0.001) and strict antenatal supervision (odds ratio, 0.5 [95% CI, 0.3-0.7], P=0.001) were protective.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with CHD-associated mild PH appear to have better outcomes compared with women with CHD-associated moderate-to-severe PH, and with event rates similar for most outcomes with women with CHD and no PH. Multimodality risk assessment, including PH severity, brain natriuretic peptide level, and New York Heart Association class, may be useful in risk stratification in pregnancy with PH. Follow-up with a multidisciplinary team and strict antenatal supervision during pregnancy may also help to mitigate the risk of adverse maternal cardiac events.

Evaluation of right ventricle systolic function after tetralogy of Fallot repair: A systematic review comparing cardiac magnetic resonance and global longitudinal strain

BACKGROUND

Most patients who undergo tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) repair experience late right ventricle (RV) dysfunction due to pulmonary valve regurgitation (PVR). Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) is the gold standard method for evaluating RV during follow-up. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) has been introduced as a novel method for the assessment of RV dysfunction. We aimed to compare the feasibility of GLS and CMR for assessing RV function after TOF repair.

METHODS

We systematically reviewed the English literature using PubMed, SciELO and Google Scholar for articles published between January 1, 2015, and December 31, 2020. Articles evaluating RV function comparing by GLS and CMR after TOF repair were included.

RESULTS

Nine studies including 465 patients were analyzed. Most patients were men (280; 60%), the male:female ratio was 1.5:1, and the age range was .8 to 57.7 years. The mean follow-up time was 6 to 32 months. The correlation between RV GLS and RV ejection fraction (EF) by CMR was negative for the articles and varied from moderate to strong (r = -.45, r = -.60, r = -.76).

CONCLUSION

Right ventricle GLS can be considered for routine follow-up of TOF repair patients, even though CMR remains the noninvasive gold standard method. Using a single parameter may not allow comparison of the accuracy of 3D RV EF by using CMR and GLS. Further studies with a larger number of patients undergoing TOF repair are required to evaluate the correlation between these examinations.

The Right Ventricle: From Embryologic Development to RV Failure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle (LV) have different developmental origins, which likely plays a role in their chamber-specific response to physiological and pathological stress. RV dysfunction is encountered frequently in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) and right heart abnormalities emerge from different causes than increased afterload alone as is observed in RV dysfunction due to pulmonary hypertension (PH). In this review, we describe the developmental, structural, and functional differences between ventricles while highlighting emerging therapies for RV dysfunction.

RECENT FINDINGS

There are new insights into the role of fibrosis, inflammation, myocyte contraction, and mitochondrial dynamics in the pathogenesis of RV dysfunction. We discuss the current state of therapies that may potentially improve RV function in both experimental and clinical trials. A clearer understanding of the differences in molecular alterations in the RV compared to the LV may allow for the development of better therapies that treat RV dysfunction.

Long-Term Outcomes After Atrial Switch Operation for Transposition of the Great Arteries

BACKGROUND

For patients with d-loop transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA) with a systemic right ventricle after an atrial switch operation, there is a need to identify risks for end-stage heart failure outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

The authors aimed to determine factors associated with survival in a large cohort of such individuals.

METHODS

This multicenter, retrospective cohort study included adults with d-TGA and prior atrial switch surgery seen at a congenital heart center. Clinical data from initial and most recent visits were obtained. The composite primary outcome was death, transplantation, or mechanical circulatory support (MCS).

RESULTS

From 1,168 patients (38% female, age at first visit 29 ± 7.2 years) during a median 9.2 years of follow-up, 91 (8.8% per 10 person-years) met the outcome (66 deaths, 19 transplantations, 6 MCS). Patients experiencing sudden/arrhythmic death were younger than those dying of other causes (32.6 ± 6.4 years vs 42.4 ± 6.8 years; P < 0.001). There was a long duration between sentinel clinical events and end-stage heart failure. Age, atrial arrhythmia, pacemaker, biventricular enlargement, systolic dysfunction, and tricuspid regurgitation were all associated with the primary outcome. Independent 5-year predictors of primary outcome were prior ventricular arrhythmia, heart failure admission, complex anatomy, QRS duration >120 ms, and severe right ventricle dysfunction based on echocardiography.

CONCLUSIONS

For most adults with d-TGA after atrial switch, progress to end-stage heart failure or death is slow. A simplified prediction score for 5-year adverse outcome is derived to help identify those at greatest risk.

Early Right Heart Chambers Reverse Remodeling in Patients Operated in Adulthood for Congenital Lesions Associated with Right Heart Chambers Enlargement

BACKGROUND

Progressive right heart chambers dilatation is frequent in the adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) population. We evaluated the immediate and mid-term response of right heart chambers to surgery performed in adulthood for lesions associated with right heart chambers enlargement.

METHODS

Thirty-six adult patients with lesions associated with right heart chambers enlargement submitted to surgery were studied. We collected echocardiographic data of right ventricle (RV) mid-diameter, right atrial volume indexed, RV systolic pressure, and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) prior to surgery (T0), at 2 to 5 days (T1), and 3 to 6 months (T2) after surgery.

RESULTS

At T1, we observed a significant decrease of RV mid-diameter (47.2 ± 8.4 vs. 39.6 ± 7.4 mm, P < .001), right atrial volume indexed (45.6 ± 26.6 vs. 27.2 ± 11 ml/m2, P < .001), and RV systolic pressure (39 ± 14.8 vs. 32.8 ± 11.3 mm Hg, P = .03). At T2, a further significant deviation in the rate of RV diameter (39.6 ± 7.4 vs. 34.5 ± 5.1 mm, P < .001), in RV systolic pressure (32.8 ± 11.3 vs. 25.3 ± 5 mm Hg, P = .03) and TAPSE (13.9 ± 3.2 vs. 15.8 ± 2.6 mm, P < .001) was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Positive right heart chambers remodeling occurs as early as in the immediate post-operative period in most ACHD patients operated for lesions associated with right heart chambers enlargement.

Association of left ventricular longitudinal myocardial function with subclinical right ventricular dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background

Left ventricular (LV) involvement in diabetic cardiomyopathy has been reported; however, only limited data exist on right ventricular (RV) involvement. Therefore, our purpose was to investigate RV systolic dysfunction and its association with LV longitudinal myocardial dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and preserved LV ejection fraction (LVEF).

Methods

We studied 177 T2DM patients with preserved LVEF and 79 age-, sex-, and LVEF-matched healthy volunteers. LV longitudinal myocardial function was assessed as global longitudinal strain (GLS), and RV systolic function was assessed as RV free-wall strain, and predefined cutoff values for subclinical dysfunction were set at GLS < 18% and RV free-wall strain < 20%, respectively.

Results

RV free-wall strain in T2DM patients was significantly lower than that in normal controls (19.3% ± 4.8% vs. 24.4% ± 5.1%; P < 0.0001). RV free-wall strain in T2DM patients and LV longitudinal dysfunction was similar compared to that in T2DM patients without (19.0 ± 4.5% vs. 19.6 ± 5.0%, P = 0.40). Furthermore, multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that GLS was independently associated with RV systolic dysfunction as well as mitral inflow E and mitral e′ annular velocities ratio (odds ratio, 1.16; 95% confidence interval: 1.03–1.31; P < 0.05). Sequential logistic models evaluating the association of RV systolic dysfunction in T2DM patients showed an improvement in clinical variables (χ² = 6.2) with the addition of conventional echocardiographic parameters (χ² = 13.4, P < 0.001) and a further improvement with the addition of GLS (χ² = 20.8, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

RV subclinical systolic dysfunction was observed in T2DM patients with preserved LVEF and was associated with LV longitudinal myocardial dysfunction. Our findings may provide additional findings for the management of T2DM patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12933-021-01404-5.

Valvular heart disease in congenital heart disease: a narrative review

Patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) are one of the fastest growing populations in cardiology, and valvular pathology is at the center of many congenital lesions. Derangements in valvular embryology lead to several anomalies prone to dysfunction, each with hemodynamic effects that require appropriate surveillance and management. Surgical innovation has provided new treatments that have improved survival in this population, though has also contributed to esotericism in patients who already have unique anatomic and physiologic considerations. Conduit and prosthesis durability are often monitored collaboratively with general and specialized congenital-focused cardiologists. As such, general cardiologists must become familiar with valvular disease with CHD for appropriate care and referral practices. In this review, we summarize the embryology of the semilunar and atrioventricular (AV) valves as a foundation for understanding the origins of valvular CHD and describe the mechanisms that account for heterogeneity in disease. We then highlight the categories of pathology from the simple (e.g., bicuspid aortic valve, isolated pulmonic stenosis) to the more complex (e.g., Ebstein's anomaly, AV valvular disease in single ventricle circulations) with details on natural history, diagnosis, and contemporary therapeutic approaches. Care for CHD patients requires collaborative effort between providers, both CHD-specialized and not, to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

Heart failure in adult congenital heart disease: tetralogy of Fallot

The number of rTOF patients who survive into adulthood is steadily rising, with currently more than 90% reaching the third decade of life. However, rTOF patients are not cured, but rather have a lifelong increased risk for cardiac and non-cardiac complications. Heart failure is recognized as a significant complication. Its occurrence is strongly associated with adverse outcome. Unfortunately, conventional concepts of heart failure may not be directly applicable in this patient group. This article presents a review of the current knowledge on HF in rTOF patients, including incidence and prevalence, the most common mechanisms of heart failure, i.e., valvular pathologies, shunt lesions, left atrial hypertension, primary left heart and right heart failure, arrhythmias, and coronary artery disease. In addition, we will review information regarding extracardiac complications, risk factors for the development of heart failure, clinical impact and prognosis, and assessment possibilities, particularly of the right ventricle, as well as management strategies. We explore potential future concepts that may stimulate further research into this field.

Subtle right ventricular dysfunction in asymptomatic chronic heavy cigarette smokers: a speckle tracking case-control study

BACKGROUND

Chronic heavy cigarette smoking can affect the right ventriclular function. The standard echocardiography may not show early right ventricular functional changes, and a more sensitive measure is needed. The aim of this work was to evaluate the subtle subclinical effects of chronic heavy cigarette smoking on the right ventricular function. The study included 55 healthy asymptomatic chronic heavy cigarette smokers (smoking history of at least 5 pack-years and a daily cigarette consumption of at least 1 pack) and 35 healthy non-smoking control subjects. Patients underwent a full clinical assessment and a conventional as well as a 2D-speckle tracking transthoracic echocardiography of the right ventricle and data was compared between the 2 groups.

RESULTS

The mean age was 32.9 ± 7.2 years in smokers and 30.9 ± 7.9 years in non-smokers (p = 0.227). The 2 groups showed comparable conventional right ventricular systolic and diastolic functions. Smokers showed a significantly lower (less negative) right ventricular global longitudinal strain (- 19.0 ± 3.2% vs. - 24.5 ± 3.5%, p < 0.001). Patients with a higher daily cigarette consumption showed a poorer right ventricular global longitudinal strain (p = 0.014).

CONCLUSION

Chronic heavy cigarette smoking can adversely affect the right ventricular function, a finding that can be easily missed by conventional echocardiography and can be better detected by the right ventricular speckle tracking.

Partitioning the Right Ventricle Into 15 Segments and Decomposing Its Motion Using 3D Echocardiography-Based Models: The Updated ReVISION Method

Three main mechanisms contribute to global right ventricular (RV) function: longitudinal shortening, radial displacement of the RV free wall (bellows effect), and anteroposterior shortening (as a consequence of left ventricular contraction). Since the importance of these mechanisms may vary in different cardiac conditions, a technology being able to assess their relative influence on the global RV pump function could help to clarify the pathophysiology and the mechanical adaptation of the chamber. Previously, we have introduced our 3D echocardiography (3DE)-based solution-the Right VentrIcular Separate wall motIon quantificatiON (ReVISION) method-for the quantification of the relative contribution of the three aforementioned mechanisms to global RV ejection fraction (EF). Since then, our approach has been applied in several clinical scenarios, and its strengths have been demonstrated in the in-depth characterization of RV mechanical pattern and the prognostication of patients even in the face of maintained RV EF. Recently, various new features have been implemented in our software solution to enable the convenient, standardized, and more comprehensive analysis of RV function. Accordingly, in our current technical paper, we aim to provide a detailed description of the latest version of the ReVISION method with special regards to the volumetric partitioning of the RV and the calculation of longitudinal, circumferential, and area strains using 3DE datasets. We also report the results of the comparison between 3DE- and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging-derived RV parameters, where we found a robust agreement in our advanced 3D metrics between the two modalities. In conclusion, the ReVISION method may provide novel insights into global and also segmental RV function by defining parameters that are potentially more sensitive and predictive compared to conventional echocardiographic measurements in the context of different cardiac diseases.

Inferior Right Ventricular Wall Thickness by Echocardiogram: A Novel Method of Assessing Hypertrophy in Neonates and Infants

An established echocardiographic (echo) standard for assessing the newborn right ventricle (RV) for hypertrophy has not been thoroughly developed. This is partially due to the RV's complex architecture, which makes quantification of RV mass by echo difficult. Here, we retrospectively evaluate the thickness of the inferior RV wall (iRVWT) by echo in neonates and infants with normal cardiopulmonary physiology. Inferior RVWT was defined at the medial portion of the inferior wall of the RV at the mid-ventricular level, collected from a subxiphoid, short axis view. iRVWT was indexed to body surface area (BSA) to the 0.5 power and normalized to iLVWT to explore the best normalization method. Ninety-eight neonates and 32 infants were included in the final analysis. Mean age for neonates and infants was 2 days and 59 days, respectively. Mean ± SD for neonate and infant end-diastole iRVWT was 2.17 ± 0.35 mm and 1.79 ± 0.28 mm, respectively. There was no residual relationship between the index iRVWT and BSA (r = 0.03, p = NS). In the infant cohort, the iRVWT was significantly lower and iLVWT was significantly higher compared to neonate, consistent with known physiologic changes of RV and LV mass. Thus, iRVWT may serve as a reliable and accurate proxy for RV mass and the parameter warrants further evaluation.

Utility of machine learning algorithms in assessing patients with a systemic right ventricle

AIMS

To investigate the utility of novel deep learning (DL) algorithms in recognizing transposition of the great arteries (TGA) after atrial switch procedure or congenitally corrected TGA (ccTGA) based on routine transthoracic echocardiograms. In addition, the ability of DL algorithms for delineation and segmentation of the systemic ventricle was evaluated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In total, 132 patients (92 TGA and atrial switch and 40 with ccTGA; 60% male, age 38.3 ± 12.1 years) and 67 normal controls (57% male, age 48.5 ± 17.9 years) with routine transthoracic examinations were included. Convolutional neural networks were trained to classify patients by underlying diagnosis and a U-Net design was used to automatically segment the systemic ventricle. Convolutional networks were build based on over 100 000 frames of an apical four-chamber or parasternal short-axis view to detect underlying diagnoses. The DL algorithm had an overall accuracy of 98.0% in detecting the correct diagnosis. The U-Net architecture model correctly identified the systemic ventricle in all individuals and achieved a high performance in segmenting the systemic right or left ventricle (Dice metric between 0.79 and 0.88 depending on diagnosis) when compared with human experts.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates the potential of machine learning algorithms, trained on routine echocardiographic datasets to detect underlying diagnosis in complex congenital heart disease. Automated delineation of the ventricular area was also feasible. These methods may in future allow for the longitudinal, objective, and automated assessment of ventricular function.

Autopsy in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD)

The adult congenital heart diseases (ACHD) population is exceeding the pediatric congenital heart diseases (CHD) population and is progressively expanding each year, representing more than 90% of patients with CHD. Of these, about 75% have undergone surgical and/or percutaneous intervention for palliation or correction. Autopsy can be a very challenging procedure in ACHD patients. The approach and protocol to be used may vary depending on whether the pathologists are facing native disease without surgical or percutaneous interventions, but with various degrees of cardiac remodeling, or previously palliated or corrected CHD. Moreover, interventions for the same condition have evolved over the last decades, as has perioperative myocardial preservations and postoperative care, with different long-term sequelae depending on the era in which patients were operated on. Careful clinicopathological correlation is, thus, required to assist the pathologist in performing the autopsy and reaching a diagnosis regarding the cause of death. Due to the heterogeneity of the structural abnormalities, and the wide variety of surgical and interventional procedures, there are no standard methods for dissecting the heart at autopsy. In this paper, we describe the most common types of CHDs that a pathologist could encounter at autopsy, including the various types of surgical and percutaneous procedures and major pathological manifestations. We also propose a practical systematic approach to the autopsy of ACHD patients.

Echocardiographic assessment of right heart size and function in dogs with pulmonary valve stenosis

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVES

We sought to determine the prevalence and clinical significance of right heart remodeling and right ventricular (RV) dysfunction in dogs with pulmonary valve stenosis (PS). We also sought to evaluate repeatability of several measurements of severity of PS, right heart size, and RV function in dogs with PS.

ANIMALS, MATERIALS AND METHODS

Several indices of right atrial (RA) size and RV size and function were prospectively evaluated in 48 dogs with PS. Regression analysis was used to determine if indices of right heart size and function were independently associated with maximum transpulmonary pressure gradient (max PG) and adverse clinical findings (exercise intolerance, syncope, or right heart failure). Eight dogs underwent a second echocardiogram performed by the same operator to assess repeatability of the echocardiographic indices, which was quantified by coefficient of variation (CV) and repeatability coefficient.

RESULTS

Increased RA size (81%), increased RV wall thickness (83%), and decreased tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE [81%]) were common. Right atrial size, end-diastolic RV area, and RV wall thickness were independently associated with max PG. Decreased TAPSE was independently associated with adverse clinical findings. All indices except RA area (18.6%) and RV systolic velocity (20.7%) had CVs <15%. Repeatability coefficients are available to help distinguish a true change versus measurement variability during serially obtained exams.

CONCLUSIONS

Right heart remodeling and RV dysfunction are common in dogs with PS and are associated with echocardiographic and clinical severity. Results support the quantitative assessment of right heart size and function in dogs with PS.

Development of heart failure in young patients with congenital heart disease: a nation-wide cohort study

Objective

Heart failure (HF) is a common cause of hospitalisation and death in adults with congenital heart disease (CHD). However, the risk of HF in young patients with CHD has not been determined.

Methods

By linkage of national patient registers in Sweden, we identified 21 982 patients with CHD born between 1970 and 1993, and compared these with 10 controls per case. Follow-up data were collected from birth until 2011 or death.

Results

Over a mean follow-up of 26.6 years in patients with CHD and 28.5 years in controls, 729 (3.3%) and 75 (0.03%) developed HF, respectively. The cumulative incidence of HF in all CHD was 6.5% and in complex CHD 14.8% up to age 42 years. Thus, one patient in 15 with CHD runs the risk of developing HF before age 42 years, a risk that is 105.7 times higher (95 % CI 83.2 to 134.8) compared with controls. For patients with complex CHD (such as conotruncal defects, univentricular hearts, endocardial cushion defects), one in seven will develop HF, a HR of 401.5; 95% CI 298 to 601 as compared with controls. The cumulative probability of death in patients with CHD, after HF diagnosis, was 63.4% (95% CI 57.5 to 69.3).

Conclusions

An extremely high risk of developing HF (more than 100-fold) was found in patients with CHD, compared with matched controls, up to the age of 42 years. Patients with complex congenital heart malformations carried the highest risk and have to be considered as the main risk group for developing HF.

Right ventricular basal inflow and outflow tract diameters overestimate right ventricular size in subjects with sigmoid-shaped interventricular septum: a study using three-dimensional echocardiography

Sigmoid-shaped ventricular septum (SS), a frequently encountered minor abnormality in echocardiographic examinations of the elderly, may have some influence on RV shape. We aimed to determine the influence of SS on the accuracy of the 6 RV linear diameter measurements in the light of three-dimensional echocardiographic (3DE) RV volume. The aorto-septal angle (ASA) was measured in the parasternal long-axis view using two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) as an index of SS in 70 patients without major cardiac abnormalities who were subdivided into 35 with SS (ASA ≤ 120°) and 35 without SS (NSS). We measured RV end-diastolic volume (RVEDV) using 3DE; in addition, using 2DE, we measured basal RV diameter, mid-cavity diameter, longitudinal diameter and end-diastolic area in the apical four-chamber view; proximal RV outflow tract (RVOT) diameter in the parasternal long-axis view; and proximal and distal RVOT diameters in the parasternal short-axis view. RVEDV did not differ between the SS and NSS groups. The SS group had greater basal RV diameter and proximal and distal RVOT diameters than the NSS group. RV mid-cavity diameter, longitudinal diameter, and end-diastolic area did not differ between the groups. Among the 2DE parameters of RV size, RV end-diastolic area was most strongly correlated with RVEDV (r = 0.67), followed by RV mid-cavity diameter (r = 0.58). When SS is present, the echocardiographic basal RV diameter and RVOT diameters overestimate RV size, and the measurement of RV end-diastolic area and mid-cavity diameter more correctly reflect 3D RV volume.

Right ventricular dysfunction and remodeling in diabetic cardiomyopathy

The increasing prevalence of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is an important threat to health worldwide. While left ventricular (LV) dysfunction in DCM is well recognized, the accurate detection, diagnosis, and treatment of changes in right ventricular (RV) structure and function have not been well characterized. The pathophysiology of RV dysfunction in DCM may share features with LV diastolic and systolic dysfunction, including pathways related to insulin resistance and oxidant injury, although the RV has a unique cellular origin and composition and unique biomechanical properties and is coupled to the lower-impedance pulmonary vascular bed. In this review, we discuss potential mechanisms responsible for RV dysfunction in DCM and review the imaging approaches useful for early detection, protection, and intervention strategies. Additional data are required from animal models and clinical trials to better identify the onset and features of altered RV and pulmonary vascular structure and function during the onset and progression of DCM and to determine the efficacy of early detection and treatment of RV dysfunction on clinical symptoms and outcomes.

Stent angioplasty of narrowed right ventricular outflow conduits and pulmonary arteries consistently reduces right ventricular systolic pressures and delays subsequent surgeries

Objectives

Narrowed right ventricular (RV) outflow conduits and pulmonary arteries (PA) increase RV pressures and warrant interventions. Stent angioplasty is an alternative to more morbid redo-surgery in developing countries. We evaluate the efficacy and safety of stenting and assess need for redo-surgical reinterventions on midterm follow-up after stent angioplasty.

Methods

Patients who underwent conduit, main PA and bilateral branch PA stenting for elevated RV pressures were analyzed retrospectively. Success was defined as 20% reduction in RV pressures or RV-aortic pressure ratio; 50% reduction in gradients or 50% increase of luminal diameter. Procedural results, complications and need for redo surgeries on follow-up were assessed.

Results

Among 60 patients aged 1–46 years, 57 were post-operative patients, who needed stenting at a median period of 48 months after surgery. Stenting succeeded in 98% and reduced RV pressures from 105.42 ± 28.39 mmHg to 54.46 ± 16.89 mmHg. Direct major procedural complications in five (8%) patients included procedural failure in one, stent migration in three and lung hemorrhage in one. None of the stented conduits needed a surgical change on a follow-up ranging 3–120 months. Following bilateral PA stenting in twenty-four patients, only two needed a repeat open-heart surgery during follow-up ranging 3–108 months. Catheter reinterventions on follow-up included elective percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in nine patients and stent redilation in seven patients.

Conclusions

Stent angioplasty was safe and effective. Surgery was postponed in all stenosed conduits. Elective redilation of stents after bilateral PA stenting may be needed for somatic growth; but open-heart repeat surgeries can be avoided in a majority.

Value of tissue-tracking tricuspid annular plane by speckle-tracking echocardiography for the assessment of right ventricular systolic dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Assessment of right ventricular (RV) function remains challenging because of its complex geometry. Application of speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) to the tricuspid annulus provides rapid and automated assessment of the midpoint of the tricuspid annular plane displacement (TAD). The aim of this study was to investigate the value of tissue-tracking TAD for the assessment of RV systolic dysfunction.

METHODS

We retrospectively studied 61 patients in whom RV ejection fraction (EF) measured by 3-dimensional echocardiography was performed. STE-derived displacement of the midpoint between the septal and lateral tricuspid annulus and its percentage of RV length at end-diastole (MTAD) were automatically assessed. We performed comparative analyses between the RVEF ≥45% group and the RVEF <45% group in each parameter for the assessment of RV systolic function.

RESULTS

MTAD was successfully assessed in 56 (91.2%). According to receiver operating characteristics analysis, RVEF <45% was best detected by MTAD <14.7% with area under curve (AUC) 0.97, sensitivity 93%, specificity 95%, followed by RV free wall longitudinal strain (AUC 0.86), RV fractional area change (AUC 0.84), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (AUC 0.79), and systolic peak velocity of tricuspid annulus (AUC 0.70), although there was no significant difference between MTAD and RV free wall strain (P = 0.14).

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that MTAD was simple index and useful for the assessment of RV systolic dysfunction.

Systemic Right Ventricle in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

The systemic right ventricle (SRV) is commonly encountered in congenital heart disease representing a distinctly different model in terms of its anatomic spectrum, adaptation, clinical phenotype, and variable, but overall guarded prognosis. The most common clinical scenarios where an SRV is encountered are complete transposition of the great arteries with previous atrial switch repair, congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries, double inlet right ventricle mostly with previous Fontan palliation, and hypoplastic left heart syndrome palliated with the Norwood-Fontan protocol. The reasons for the guarded prognosis of the SRV in comparison with the systemic left ventricle are multifactorial, including distinct fibromuscular architecture, shape and function, coronary artery supply mismatch, intrinsic abnormalities of the tricuspid valve, intrinsic or acquired conduction abnormalities, and varied SRV adaptation to pressure or volume overload. Management of the SRV remains an ongoing challenge because SRV dysfunction has implications on short- and long-term outcomes for all patients irrespective of underlying cardiac morphology. SRV dysfunction can be subclinical, underscoring the need for tertiary follow-up and timely management of target hemodynamic lesions. Catheter interventions and surgery have an established role in selected patients. Cardiac resynchronization therapy is increasingly used, whereas pharmacological therapy is largely empirical. Mechanical assist device and heart transplantation remain options in end-stage heart failure when other management strategies have been exhausted. The present report focuses on the SRV with its pathological subtypes, pathophysiology, clinical features, current management strategies, and long-term sequelae. Although our article touches on issues applicable to neonates and children, its main focus is on adults with SRV.

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Ventricular Function-For the Neonatologist and Pediatric Intensivist

In the neonatal and pediatric intensive care setting, bedside cardiac ultrasound is often used to assess ventricular dimensions and function. Depending upon the underlying disease process, it is necessary to be able to evaluate the systolic and diastolic function of left and or right ventricles. The systolic function of left ventricle is mostly assessed qualitatively on visual inspection "eye-balling" and quantitatively by measuring circumferential fraction shortening or calculating the ejection fraction by Simpson's planimetry. The assessment of left ventricular diastolic function relies essentially on the mitral valve and pulmonary venous Doppler tracings or tissue Doppler evaluation. The right ventricular particular shape and anatomical position does not permit to use the same parameters for measuring systolic function as is used for the LV. Tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and S' velocity on tissue Doppler imaging are more often used for quantitative assessment of right ventricle systolic function. Several parameters proposed to assess right ventricle systolic function such as fractional area change, 3D echocardiography, speckle tracking, and strain rate are being researched and normal values for children are being established. Diastolic function of right ventricle is evaluated by tricuspid valve and hepatic venous Doppler tracings or on tissue Doppler evaluation. The normal values for children are pretty similar to adults while normal values for the neonates, especially preterm infants, may differ significantly from adult population. The normal values for most of the parameters used to assess cardiac function in term neonates and children have now been established.

Management of the Critically Ill Adult With Congenital Heart Disease

Survival of adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) has improved significantly over the last 2 decades, leading to an increase in hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions of these patients. Whereas most of the ICU admissions in the past were related to perioperative management, the incidence of medical emergencies from long-term sequelae of palliative or corrective surgical treatment of these patients is rising. Intensivists now are confronted with patients who not only have complex anatomy after congenital cardiac surgery, but also complex pathophysiology due to decades of living with abnormal cardiac anatomy and diseases of advanced age. Comorbidities affect all organ systems, including cognitive function, pulmonary and cardiovascular systems, liver, and kidneys. Critical care management requires an in-depth understanding of underlying anatomy and pathophysiology in order to apply contemporary concepts of adult ICU care to this population and optimize patient outcomes. In this review, the main CHD lesions and their common surgical management approaches are described, and the sequelae of CHD physiology are discussed. In addition, the effects of chronic comorbidities on the management of critically ill adults are explored, and the adjustments of current ICU management modalities and pharmacology to optimize care are discussed.

Right Ventricular Imaging in 25 Seconds: Evaluating the Use of Sparse Sampling CINE With Iterative Reconstruction for Volumetric Analysis of the Right Ventricle

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate a 2-dimensional real-time CINE TrueFISP magnetic resonance sequence using sparse data sampling with iterative reconstruction (SSIR) for right ventricular (RV) volumetry in comparison to the criterion standard (CS) acquired at 3 T.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten healthy controls and 20 consecutive patients scheduled for cardiac magnetic resonance imaging on a 3-T system (Magnetom Skyra; Siemens Healthcare Sector, Germany) underwent undersampled SSIR sequences with a single breath-hold (BH) as well as with shallow free breathing (NBH) and a fully sampled multi-BH sequence as CS. Right ventricular volumetry was performed with dedicated cardiac magnetic resonance software (cvi42; Circle Cardiovascular Imaging Inc, Calgary, Alberta, Canada). Agreement of SSIR with and without BH and CS for RV functional parameters (end-systolic volume [RVESV], end-diastolic volume [RVEDV], stroke volume [RVSV], and ejection fraction [RVEF]) were assessed with Bland-Altman analysis and paired t test.

RESULTS

Analysis of the 30 individuals (19 male; 48 ± 14 years) revealed no significant differences when comparing CS and BH measurements for RVEDV (153.7 vs 153.6 mL, P = 0.96), RVESV (71.6 vs 72.1 mL, P = 0.78), RVSV (82.0 vs 81.6 mL, P = 0.65), and RVEF (54.9% vs 54.2%, P = 0.19). Similar results were shown when comparing CS and NBH measurements for RVEDV (153.7 vs 152.2 mL, P = 0.34), RVESV (71.6 vs 72.8 mL, P = 0.30), RVSV (82.0 vs 81.0 mL, P = 0.46), and RVEF (54.9 vs 54.4, P = 0.48). Time taken for acquisition was 350 seconds for the CS, 34 seconds for BH, and 25 seconds for NBH measurements. Additional time required for iterative reconstruction was 2 minutes and 30 seconds for the sparse sampled data sets.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrate that accurate RV volumetry with SSIR data at 3 T is feasible in clinical routine within 25 seconds even without BH, which is of particular importance in patients with dyspnea.

Non-invasive Evaluation of Right Ventricular Function with Real-Time 3-D Echocardiography

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and feasibility of real-time 3-D echocardiography (3-DE) in assessing right ventricular (RV) systolic function. A latex balloon was inserted into the right ventricle of 20 freshly harvested pig hearts which were then passively driven by a pulsatile pump apparatus. The RV global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global area strain (GAS) and RV ejection fraction (RVEF), derived from 3-DE, as well as the RVEF obtained from 2-D echocardiography (2-DE) were quantified at different stroke volumes (30-70 mL) and compared with sonomicrometry data. In all comparisons, 3-D GLS, GCS, GAS, 2-D RVEF and 3-D RVEF exhibited strong correlations with sonomicrometry data (r = 0.89, 0.79, 0.74, 0.80, and 0.93, respectively; all p values < 0.001). Bland-Altman analyses revealed slight overestimations of echo-derived GLS, GCS, 2-DE RVEF and 3-DE RVEF compared with sonomicrometry values (bias = 1.55, 2.72, 3.59 and 2.21, respectively). Furthermore, there is better agreement among GLS, 3-D RVEF and the sonomicrometry values than between GCS and 2-D RVEF. Real-time 3-DE is more feasible and accurate for assessing RV function than 2-DE. GLS is a potential alternative parameter for quantifying RV systolic function.

Echocardiographic assessment of the right ventricle in the current era: Application in clinical practice

The right ventricle has unique structural and functional characteristics. It is now well recognized that the so-called forgotten ventricle is a key player in cardiovascular physiology. Furthermore, there is accumulating evidence that demonstrates right ventricular dysfunction as an important marker of morbidity and mortality in several commonly encountered clinical situations such as heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary embolism, right ventricular myocardial infarction, and adult congenital heart disease. In contrast to the left ventricle, echocardiographic assessment of right ventricular function is more challenging as volume estimations are not possible without the use of three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography. Guidelines on chamber quantification provide a standardized approach to assessment of the right ventricle. The technique and limitations of each of the parameters for RV size and function need to be fully understood. In this era of multimodality imaging, echocardiography continues to remain a useful tool for the initial assessment and follow-up of patients with right heart pathology. Several novel approaches such as 3D and strain imaging of the right ventricle have expanded the usefulness of this indispensable modality.

The Miracle Baby Grows Up: Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome in the Adult

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is characterized by underdevelopment of the mitral valve, left ventricle, and aorta and is ultimately palliated with a single-ventricle repair. Universally fatal in infancy prior to the advent of modern surgical techniques, the majority of HLHS patients will now reach adulthood. However, despite improvements in early survival, the HLHS population continues to face significant morbidity and early mortality. This review delineates common sources of patient morbidity and highlights areas in need of additional research for this growing segment of the adult congenital heart disease population.

RECENT FINDINGS

It has become increasingly clear that palliated adult single ventricle patients, like those with HLHS, face significant life-long morbidity from elevated systemic venous pressures as a consequence of the Fontan procedure. Downstream organ dysfunction secondary to elevated Fontan pressures has the potential to significantly impact long-term management decisions, including strategies of organ allocation. Because of the presence of a morphologic systemic right ventricle, HLHS patients may be at even higher risk than other adult patients with a Fontan. Because the adult HLHS population continues to grow, recognition of common sources of patient morbidity and mortality is becoming increasingly important. A coordinated effort between patients and providers is necessary to address the many remaining areas of clinical uncertainty to help ensure continued improvement in patient prognosis and quality of life.

Impact of Isolated Tricuspid Valve Repair on Right Ventricular Remodelling in an Adult Congenital Heart Disease Population

Background

Surgical repair of isolated congenital tricuspid valve (TV) disease is rare with no well-defined indication and outcomes. Moreover, the role of right ventricle (RV) in this context has not yet been investigated.

Objectives

We sought to assess the impact of congenital TV repair on cardiac remodelling and clinical–functional status and the importance of the RV function in an adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) population.

Methods and results

From January 2005 to December 2015, 304 patients underwent TV surgery in our centre. Of these, 27 (ACHD) patients had isolated TV repair. Patients were evaluated with preoperative and postoperative transthoracic echocardiogram. Survival rate has been investigated with a mean clinical follow-up (FU) of 3.7 ± 2.3 years, whereas the mean echocardiographic FU was 2.9 ± 1.8 years. The clinical and functional status of patients showed a statistically significant improvement after the surgical repair in terms of New York Heart Association class (66.7 vs 7.4%; p < 0.01), clinical signs of heart failure (29.6 vs 7.4%; p < 0.01), and left ventricular function (14.8 vs 7.4%; p < 0.01). The RV and right atrium diameter were significantly reduced after surgery (5.15 ± 1.21 vs 4.32 ± 1.16; p < 0.01) and (44.7 ± 16.7 vs 26.7 ± 9.2; p < 0.01), respectively. The degree of postoperative pulmonary hypertension was also significantly reduced (40.7 vs 7.4%; p < 0.01). The survival rate was 96.3% at 1 year and 93.7% at 5 years. One patient (3.7%) had early failure of the tricuspid repair requiring a reoperation.

Conclusion

Isolated TV repair for adult congenital disease significantly improved patients’ clinical and functional status and allowed right ventricular remodelling and functional improvement.

Prognostic Value of Right Ventricular Ejection Fraction Assessed by Transthoracic 3D Echocardiography

Background—

Cardiac magnetic resonance is the gold standard for the evaluation of right ventricular (RV) volumes, but it is impractical to perform in every patient. Although reference values of RV volumes and RV ejection fraction by 3D transthoracic echocardiography (3DTTE) have been established, their prognostic values have not been elucidated yet. We hypothesized that RV ejection fraction measured by 3DTTE (3DRVEF) predicts future cardiovascular events.

Methods and Results—

In protocol 1, we determined the accuracy of RV volumes and RV ejection fraction measurements by 3DTTE against cardiac magnetic resonance in 60 subjects. In protocol 2, 3DRVEF was measured in 446 patients with various cardiovascular diseases. Study subjects were followed up to record cardiac death and major adverse cardiovascular events. In protocol 1, 3DTTE-determined RV end-diastolic volume, end-systolic volume, and RV ejection fraction had good correlations to those by cardiac magnetic resonance ( r =0.74–0.90). In protocol 2, 38 cardiac deaths and 88 major adverse cardiovascular events occurred during a median follow-up of 4.1 years. Univariable Cox proportional analysis revealed that 3DRVEF was associated with both cardiac death ( P <0.0001) and major adverse cardiovascular event ( P <0.0001). 3DRVEF remained as an independent predictor for cardiac death ( P <0.0001) and major adverse cardiovascular event ( P <0.0001) even in a stepwise multivariable Cox proportional hazard analysis. Classification and regression-tree analysis demonstrated that 3DRVEF played an important role for risk stratification.

Conclusions—

3DTTE-determined RV ejection fraction was independently associated with cardiac outcomes in patients with diverse backgrounds. 3DRVEF offered incremental value over clinical risk factors and the other echocardiographic parameters including left ventricular systolic and diastolic function for predicting future adverse outcome.

Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus: How Do They Affect the Right Ventricular Functions Individually and Together?

CONTEXT

The right ventricle (RV) is neglected in clinical practice although the RV function is the primary determinant of prognosis and effort tolerance in many groups of patients.

AIM

The effects of type two diabetes mellitus and hypertension solitary and together were studied on right ventricular systolic and diastolic function by echo-Doppler and tissue Doppler echocardiography.

SETTINGS AND DESIGN

A cohort of 300 consecutive patients with echocardiographic right ventricular (RV) diastolic dysfunction as determined by Doppler echocardiography were included in this study.

METHODS AND MATERIAL

Patients were divided in four groups, patients who were neither diabetic nor hypertensive, hypertensive patients, diabetic patients and those patients suffering from both hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Parameters of right ventricular systolic and diastolic function were compared.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED

Analyses were performed with SPSS version 12.0 statistical package (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).

RESULTS

There was significant statistical difference between the four groups as regards E wave, E/A ratio and deceleration time measured by Doppler echocardiography. By pulsed wave tissue Doppler, S, E' and E/E' showed significant statistical difference between the four groups. All of these parameters were significantly different between the group suffering from both diseases and the group who had neither of them.

CONCLUSIONS

The combined effect of both, diabetes mellitus and hypertension on right ventricular function is stronger than the effect of one of them alone.

Multimodal imaging of the tricuspid valve: normal appearance and pathological entities

The tricuspid valve, which is the atrioventricular valve attached to the morphological right ventricle, is affected by a wide range of pathological processes. Tricuspid valve diseases are now increasingly recognized as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Echocardiography is the most widely available and, hence, the first-line imaging modality used in the evaluation of tricuspid valve disorders; however, CT and MRI are also increasingly used for further evaluation and characterization of these entities. In this article, we first review the normal anatomy and embryology of the tricuspid valve, followed by a discussion of the role of multiple imaging modalities in the evaluation of tricuspid valve abnormalities. We then review and illustrate the imaging appearance of several congenital and acquired tricuspid valve abnormalities.

Main Messages

• Tricuspid valve diseases have a significant impact on morbidity and mortality.

• CT and MRI are increasingly used in the evaluation of tricuspid disorders.

• CT and MRI help in diagnosis, functional evaluation, pre-surgical planning and post-surgical follow-up.

• The most common cause of tricuspid regurgitation is functional.

Genetic testing in congenital heart disease: A clinical approach

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common type of birth defect. Traditionally, a polygenic model defined by the interaction of multiple genes and environmental factors was hypothesized to account for different forms of CHD. It is now understood that the contribution of genetics to CHD extends beyond a single unified paradigm. For example, monogenic models and chromosomal abnormalities have been associated with various syndromic and non-syndromic forms of CHD. In such instances, genetic investigation and testing may potentially play an important role in clinical care. A family tree with a detailed phenotypic description serves as the initial screening tool to identify potentially inherited defects and to guide further genetic investigation. The selection of a genetic test is contingent upon the particular diagnostic hypothesis generated by clinical examination. Genetic investigation in CHD may carry the potential to improve prognosis by yielding valuable information with regards to personalized medical care, confidence in the clinical diagnosis, and/or targeted patient follow-up. Moreover, genetic assessment may serve as a tool to predict recurrence risk, define the pattern of inheritance within a family, and evaluate the need for further family screening. In some circumstances, prenatal or preimplantation genetic screening could identify fetuses or embryos at high risk for CHD. Although genetics may appear to constitute a highly specialized sector of cardiology, basic knowledge regarding inheritance patterns, recurrence risks, and available screening and diagnostic tools, including their strengths and limitations, could assist the treating physician in providing sound counsel.

RV diastolic dysfunction: time to re-evaluate its importance in heart failure

Right ventricular (RV) diastolic dysfunction was first reported as an indicator for the assessment of ventricular dysfunction in heart failure a little over two decades ago. However, the underlying mechanisms and precise role of RV diastolic dysfunction in heart failure remain poorly described. Complexities in the structure and function of the RV make the detailed assessment of the contractile performance challenging when compared to its left ventricular (LV) counterpart. LV dysfunction is known to directly affect patient outcome in heart failure. As such, the focus has therefore been on LV function. Nevertheless, a strategy for the diagnosis and assessment of RV diastolic dysfunction has not been established. Here, we review the different causal mechanisms underlying RV diastolic dysfunction, summarising the current assessment techniques used in a clinical environment. Finally, we explore the role of load-independent indices of RV contractility, derived from the conductance technique, to fully interrogate the RV and expand our knowledge and understanding of RV diastolic dysfunction. Accurate assessment of RV contractility may yield further important prognostic information that will benefit patients with diastolic heart failure.