When an Increase in Central Systolic Pressure Overrides the Benefits of Heart Rate Lowering

Effect of paced heart rate on quality of life and natriuretic peptides for stage B or C heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: A secondary analysis of the myPACE trial

AIM

Emerging evidence suggests a beneficial effect of higher heart rates in some patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This study aimed to evaluate the impact of higher backup pacing rates in HFpEF patients with preexisting pacemaker systems that limit pacemaker-mediated dyssynchrony across left ventricular (LV) volumes and LV ejection fraction (LVEF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

This is a post-hoc analysis of the myPACE clinical trial that evaluated the effects of personalized accelerated pacing setting (myPACE) versus standard of care on changes in Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) score, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), pacemaker-detected activity levels, and atrial fibrillation (AF) burden in patients with HFpEF with preexisting pacemakers. Between-treatment comparisons were performed using linear regression models adjusting for the baseline value of the exposure (ANCOVA design). This study included 93 patients with pre-trial transthoracic echocardiograms available (usual care n = 49; myPACE n = 44). NT-proBNP levels and MLHFQ scores improved in a higher magnitude in the myPACE group at lower indexed LV end-diastolic volumes (iLVEDV) (NT-proBNP-iLVEDV interaction p = 0.006; MLHFQ-iLVEDV interaction p = 0.068). In addition, personalized accelerated pacing led to improved changes in activity levels and NT-proBNP, especially at higher LVEF (activity levels-LVEF interaction p = 0.009; NT-proBNP-LVEF interaction p = 0.058). No evidence of heterogeneity was found across LV volumes or LVEF for pacemaker-detected AF burden.

CONCLUSIONS

In the post-hoc analysis of the myPACE trial, we observed that the benefits of a personalized accelerated backup pacing on MLHFQ score, NT-proBNP, and pacemaker-detected activity levels appear to be more pronounced in patients with smaller iLVEDV and higher LVEF.

Interpolation time-optimized aortic pulse wave velocity estimation by 4D flow MRI

Four-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging-based pulse wave velocity (4D flow PWV) estimation is a promising tool for measuring regional aortic stiffness for non-invasive cardiovascular disease screening. However, the effect of variations in the shape of flow waveforms on 4D flow PWV measurements remains unclear. In this study, 4D flow PWV values were compared using cross-correlation algorithm with different interpolation times (iTs) based on flow rate and beat frequency. A critical iT (iTCrit) was proposed from in vitro study using flexible and stiff phantom models to simultaneously achieve a low difference and a low computation time. In vivo 4D flow PWV values from six healthy volunteers were also compared between iTCrit and the conventionally used interpolation time of 1 ms (iT1 ms). The results indicated that iTCrit reduced the mean difference of in vitro 4D flow PWV values by 19%, compared to iT1 ms. In addition, iTCrit measured in vivo 4D flow PWV, showing differences similar to those obtained with iT1 ms. A difference estimation model was proposed to retrospectively estimate potential differences of 4D flow PWV using known values of PWV and the used iT. This study would be helpful for understanding the differences of PWV generated by physiological changes and time step of obtained flow waveforms.

Impact of heart rate, aortic compliance and stroke volume on the aortic regurgitation fraction studied in an ex vivo pig model

INTRODUCTION

Drug therapy to reduce the regurgitation fraction (RF) of high-grade aortic regurgitation (AR) by increasing heart rate (HR) is generally recommended. However, chronic HR reduction in HFREF patients can significantly improve aortic compliance and thereby potentially decrease RF. To clarify these contrasts, we examined the influence of HR, aortic compliance and stroke volume (SV) on RF in an ex vivo porcine model of severe AR.

METHODS

Experiments were performed on porcine ascending aorta with aortic valves (n=12). Compliance was varied by inserting a Dacron graft close to the aortic valve. Both tube systems were connected to a left heart simulator varying HR and SV. AR was accomplished by punching a 0.3 cm2 hole in one aortic cusp. Flow, RF, SV and aortic pressure were measured, aortic compliance with transoesophageal ultrasound probes.

RESULTS

Compliance of the aorta was significantly reduced after Dacron graft insertion (0.55%±0.21%/mm Hg vs 0.01%±0.007%/mm Hg, p<0.001, respectively). With increasing HR, RF was significantly reduced in each steady state of the native aorta (HR 40 bpm: 88%±7% vs HR 120 bpm: 42%±10%; p<0.001), but Dacron tube did not affect RF (HR 40 bpm: 87%±8%; p=0.79; HR 120 bpm: 42%±3%; p=0.86). Increasing SV also reduced RF independent of the stiff Dacron graft.

CONCLUSION

Aortic compliance did not affect AR in the ex vivo porcine model of AR. RF was significantly reduced with increasing HR and SV. These results affirm that HR lowering and negative inotropic drugs should be avoided to treat severe AR.

Effect of Beta-Blocker on Long-Term Major Cardiovascular Events in High Atherosclerotic Risk Population

PURPOSE

Beta-blocker is a frequently used medication in cardiovascular diseases. However, long-term benefit of beta-blocker in patients with preserved left ventricular ejection function (LVEF) on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) is uncertain.

METHODS

The Cohort Of patients with high Risk for cardiovascular Events (CORE-Thailand) was a prospective study that enrolled Thai patients with high atherosclerotic risk including multiple atherosclerotic risk factors and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Baseline demographic data, co-morbidities and medication were recorded. Patients were followed for 5 years. Patients with LVEF<50% were excluded. Primary outcome was the effect of beta-blocker on the occurrence of MACEs including all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction and non-fatal stroke (3P-MACEs). Propensity score matching was used to control confounding factors.

RESULTS

There was a total of 8513 patients in the pre-matched cohort, 4418 were taking beta-blocker and 4095 were not. After adjustment of confounders, beta-blocker was an independent predictor of 3P-MACEs (adjusted HR 1.29;95% CI 1.12-1.49;p<0.001). After propensity score matching, 4686 patients remained in the post-matched cohort. Propensity score analysis showed consistent results in which patient taking beta-blocker had higher risk of 3P-MACEs (adjusted HR 1.29;95% CI 1.10-1.53;p=0.002). Subgroup analysis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) indicated that taking beta-blocker did not increase the incidence of 3P-MACEs (adjusted HR 0.99;95% CI 0.76-1.29) while those without CAD did (adjusted HR 1.51; 95% CI, 1.22-1.86;p-interaction=0.015).

CONCLUSION

In patients with high atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk, taking beta-blockers had a higher risk of 3P-MACEs. Care should be taken when prescribing beta-blockers to patients without a clear indication.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

TCTR20130520001 registered in Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/ , date of registration 20 May 2013.

Adaptation of Arterial Wall Viscosity to the Short-Term Reduction of Heart Rate: Impact of Aging

Background Changes in arterial wall viscosity, which dissipates the energy stored within the arterial wall, may contribute to the beneficial effect of heart rate (HR) reduction on arterial stiffness and cardiovascular coupling. However, it has never been assessed in humans and could be altered by aging. We evaluated the effect of a selective HR-lowering agent on carotid arterial wall viscosity and the impact of aging on this effect. Methods and Results This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study performed in 19 healthy volunteers evaluated the effects of ivabradine (5 mg BID, 1-week) on carotid arterial wall viscosity, mechanics, hemodynamics, and cardiovascular coupling. Arterial wall viscosity was evaluated by the area of the hysteresis loop of the pressure-lumen cross-sectional area relationship, representing the energy dissipated (W_V), and by the relative viscosity (W_V/W_E), with W_E representing the elastic energy stored. HR reduction by ivabradine increased W_V and W_E whereas W_V/W_E remained stable. In middle-aged subjects (n=11), baseline arterial stiffness and cardiovascular coupling were less favorable, and W_E was similar but W_V and therefore W_V/W_E were lower than in youth (n=8). HR reduction increased W_V/W_E in middle-aged but not in young subjects, owing to a larger increase in W_V than W_E. These results were supported by the age-related linear increase in W_V/W_E after HR reduction (P=0.009), explained by a linear increase in W_V. Conclusion HR reduction increases arterial wall energy dissipation proportionally to the increase in W_E, suggesting an adaptive process to bradycardia. This mechanism is altered during aging resulting in a larger than expected energy dissipation, the impact of which should be assessed. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: 2015/077/HP. URL: https://www. eudract.ema.europa.eu; Unique identifier: 2015-002060-17.

Effect of β-Blocker Withdrawal on Functional Capacity in Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction

BACKGROUND

Chronotropic incompetence has shown to be associated with a decrease in exercise capacity in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), yet β-blockers are commonly used in HFpEF despite the lack of robust evidence.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of β-blocker withdrawal on peak oxygen consumption (peak Vo₂) in patients with HFpEF and chronotropic incompetence.

METHODS

This is a multicenter, randomized, investigator-blinded, crossover clinical trial consisting of 2 treatment periods of 2 weeks separated by a washout period of 2 weeks. Patients with stable HFpEF, New York Heart Association functional classes II and III, previous treatment with β-blockers, and chronotropic incompetence were first randomized to withdrawing from (arm A: n = 26) versus continuing (arm B: n = 26) β-blocker treatment and were then crossed over to receive the opposite intervention. Changes in peak Vo₂ and percentage of predicted peak Vo₂ (peak Vo₂%) measured at the end of the trial were the primary outcome measures. To account for the paired-data nature of this crossover trial, linear mixed regression analysis was used.

RESULTS

The mean age was 72.6 ± 13.1 years, and most of the patients were women (59.6%) in New York Heart Association functional class II (66.7%). The mean peakVo₂ and peak Vo₂% were 12.4 ± 2.9 mL/kg/min, and 72.4 ± 17.8%, respectively. No significant baseline differences were found across treatment arms. Peak Vo₂ and peak Vo₂% increased significantly after β-blocker withdrawal (14.3 vs 12.2 mL/kg/min [Δ +2.1 mL/kg/min]; P < 0.001 and 81.1 vs 69.4% [Δ +11.7%]; P < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

β-blocker withdrawal improved maximal functional capacity in patients with HFpEF and chronotropic incompetence. β-blocker use in HFpEF deserves profound re-evaluation. (β-blockers Withdrawal in Patients With HFpEF and Chronotropic Incompetence: Effect on Functional Capacity [PRESERVE-HR]; NCT03871803; 2017-005077-39).

Effects of enhanced versus reduced vasodilating treatment on brachial and central blood pressure in patients with chronic kidney disease: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Blood pressure (BP) control is important in chronic kidney disease (CKD), but a reduction in brachial BP may not mirror changes in central aortic BP (cBP) during antihypertensive medication. We hypothesize that a fall in cBP is better reflected during enhanced vasodilation treatment (EVT) compared with reduced vasodilation treatment (RVT) because of different hemodynamic actions of these interventions.

METHODS

Eighty-one hypertensive CKD stage 3-4 patients (mean measured glomerular filtration rate 36 ml/min per 1.73 m2) were randomized to either EVT based on renin--angiotensin blockade and/or amlodipine or RVT based on nonvasodilating β-blockade (metoprolol). Before randomization and following 18 months of treatment, we performed 24-h ambulatory BP measurements (ABPM) and radial artery pulse wave analysis for estimation of cBP and augmentation index (AIx). Forearm resistance (Rrest) was determined by venous occlusion plethysmography and arterial stiffness by carotid--femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV). Matched healthy controls were studied once for comparison.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, CKD patients had elevated ABPM, cBP and PWV. Although ABPM remained unchanged from baseline to follow-up in both treatment groups, cBP decreased 4.7/2.9 mmHg (systolic/diastolic) during EVT and increased 5.1/1.5 mmHg during RVT (Δ=9.8/4.4 mmHg, P=0.02 for SBP, P = 0.05 for DBP). At follow-up, the difference between systolic cBP and 24-h ABPM (ΔBPsyst) was negatively associated with heart rate and positively associated with AIx and Rrest (all P < 0.01) but not PWV (P = 0.32).

CONCLUSION

In CKD patients, EVT and RVT have opposite effects on cBP and the difference between cBP and ambulatory BP is larger for EVT than RVT.

Heart rate modulates the relationship of augmented systolic blood pressure with the blood natriuretic peptide levels

AIMS

Augmented central systolic blood pressure (cSBP), which is known to affect the cardiac afterload, is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. While an inverse relationship is known to exist between the heart rate (HR) and the cSBP, it has not yet been clarified if the HR also modulates the association between the cSBP and the cardiac afterload. The present study was conducted to clarify whether the association of the cSBP with the serum levels of the N-terminal fragment B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) differs between subjects with high and low HRs, using data obtained from the same subjects on two occasions (2009 and 2012) so as to confirm their consistency.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The radial augmentation index, systolic pressure at the second peak of the radial pressure waveform (SBP2), and serum NT-proBNP levels were measured and analysed in a worksite cohort of 2000 middle-aged men in 2009 and in 2012. The subjects were divided into three groups by the HR (i.e. ≤69, 70-79, and ≥80 b.p.m.). While the serum NT-proBNP levels were similar among the three groups, the radial augmentation index increased (from 61 ± 12% to 72 ± 13%, P < 0.01 in 2009 and from 61 ± 13% to 73 ± 12%, P < 0.01 in 2012) and the SBP1-2 decreased (from 18 ± 7 to 13 ± 7 mmHg, P < 0.01 in 2009 and from 19 ± 7 to 13 ± 6 mmHg, P < 0.01 in 2012) significantly with decreasing HR. After the adjustment, the SBP2 showed a significant association with the serum NT-proBNP levels in the overall study population [non-standardized coefficient (B) = 0.005, standard error (SE) = 0.001, P < 0.01 in 2009 (n = 2257) and B = 0.004, SE = 0.001, P < 0.01 in 2012 (n = 1986)]. In subgroup analyses, the SBP2 showed a significant association with the serum NT-proBNP levels [B = 0.004, SE = 0.002, P = 0.02 in 2009 (n = 1291) and B = 0.005, SE = 0.001, P < 0.01 in 2012 (n = 1204)] only in the subject group with an HR of ≤69 b.p.m.

CONCLUSIONS

In middle-aged Japanese men, the relationship between the cSBP and the cardiac afterload appears to differ depending on the HR; the results of our analysis showed that the relationship between the cSBP and the cardiac overload may be more pronounced and strongly significant in patients with low HRs as compared with patients with high HRs.

Ventricular-arterial coupling: definition, pathophysiology and therapeutic targets in cardiovascular disease

INTRODUCTION

The heart and arterial system are equally affected by arteriosclerosis/atherosclerosis. There is a constant interaction between the left ventricular (LV) function and the arterial system, termed ventricular-arterial coupling (VAC), which reflects the global cardiovascular efficiency. VAC is traditionally assessed by echocardiography as the ratio of effective arterial elastance (E_a) over end-systolic elastance (E_es) (E_a/E_es). However, the concept of VAC is evolving and new methods have been proposed such as the ratio of pulse wave velocity (PWV) to global longitudinal strain (GLS) and myocardial work index.

AREA COVERED

This clinical review presents the hemodynamic background of VAC, its clinical implications and the impact of therapeutic interventions to normalize VAC. The review also summarizes the detrimental effects of cardio-metabolic risk factors on the aorta and LV, and provides an update on arterial load and its impact on LV function. The narrative review is based upon a systemic search of the bibliographic database PubMed for publications on VAC.

EXPERT OPINION

Newer methods such as PWV/GLS-ratio may be a superior marker of VAC than the traditional echocardiographic E_a/E_es in predicting target organ damage and its association with clinical outcomes. Novel anti-diabetic drugs and optimal antihypertensive treatment may normalize VAC in high-risk patients.

Left Atrial Function in Different Modes of Heart-Rate Lowering Therapy with Beta-Blockers in Patients with Recurrent Atrial Fibrillation and Hypertension

Aim. To study the impact of heart rate (HR) reduction with beta-blockers (BB) on left atrial (LA) function in hypertensive patients with paroxysmal or persistent mild symptomatic atrial fibrillation.

Material and methods. In this open prospective trial we randomly assigned patients with hypertension, sinus rhythm, elevated heart rate (≥70 bpm), and recurrent atrial fibrillation (EHRA 2A or less) to receive BB with a target HR of less or greater than 70 bpm for at least 4 months. All the patients underwent an echocardiogram [left atrial (LA) function was assessed as emptying fraction]and applanation tonometry at baseline and after 4 months. Primary endpoint was median LA emptying fraction (LAEF) measurement at the end of the study.

Results. 47 patients were randomized to group with a target HR of ≤70 bpm and 44 patients to >70 bmp. Among them 44 and 41 patients completed the study. Median follow up was 4.4 months. At the end of the study (4.5 months) median HR was 62 [60; 67] bmp in ≤70 group and 73 [72; 76] bpm in >70 group. Both groups received similar antihypertensive therapy and there were no intergroup differences in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. At the end of the study, patients in ≤70 group had significantly lower LAEF compared with >70 group (37% vs 42%; p=0.01). E’avg was lower and augmentation index was higher in ≤70 group as compared to >70. In regression analysis, after E’avg and augmentation index were included in the model, the association between LAEF and randomization group lost its significance.

Conclusion. Beta blockers treatment with strict HR reduction (≤70 bpm) significantly reduced LA function as compared to lenient target HR (>70 bpm).

Effects of selective heart rate reduction with ivabradine on LV function and central hemodynamics in patients with chronic coronary syndrome

Objectives

We assessed left ventricular (LV) function and central hemodynamic effects in patients with a heart rate (HR) at rest of ≥70 beats per minute (bpm) and chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) after long-term treatment with ivabradine compared to placebo by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging.

Methods and results

In a randomized, double-blinded, prospective cross-over design, 23 patients (18 male, 5 female) were treated with ivabradine (7.5 mg bid) or placebo for 6 months. CMR imaging was performed at baseline and after 6 and 12 months to determine LV functional parameters.Mean resting HR on treatment with ivabradine was 58 ± 8.2 bpm and 70.2 ± 8.3 bpm during placebo (p < 0.0001).There was no difference in systolic LV ejection fraction (ivabradine 57.4 ± 11.2% vs placebo 53.0 ± 10.9%, p = 0.18), indexed end-diastolic (EDVi) or end-systolic volumes (ESVi). Indexed stroke volume (SVi) (ml/m²) remained unchanged after treatment with ivabradine. Volume time curve parameters reflecting systolic LV function (peak ejection rate and time) were unaffected by ivabradine, while both peak filling rate (PFR) and PFR/EDV were significantly increased. Mean aortic velocity (cm/s) was significantly reduced during treatment with ivabradine (ivabradine 6.7 ± 2.7 vs placebo 9.0 ± 3.4, p = 0.01). Aortic flow parameters were correlated to parameters of vascular stiffness. The strongest correlation was revealed for mean aortic velocity with aortic distensibility (AD) (r = -0.86 [-0.90 to -0.85], p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Long-term reduction of HR with ivabradine in patients with CCS improved diastolic function and reduced mean aortic flow velocity.

Two cases of dilated cardiomyopathy with blood pressure-limited tolerability of cardioprotective agents improved by ivabradine

The titration of cardioprotective agents is essential for successful treatment of heart failure (HF) patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. However, hypotension is one of the limiting factors for titration. Ivabradine reduces heart rate without compromising systolic function by prolonging diastolic filling time. Herein two cases of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are presented in which ivabradine improved blood pressure (BP)-limited tolerability and allowed for further titration of cardioprotective agents. In both cases, the introduction of ivabradine raised the BP, which permitted further increase of the dose of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors or beta-blockers. One major hypothesized mechanism of ivabradine-induced BP elevation has been postulated to be an increase in stroke volume due to prolonged ventricular diastolic filling time. However, ivabradine is not expected to increase BP for all HF patients. In those with small and poorly compliant ventricles with severe diastolic or restricted dysfunction, decreased heart rate and prolonged diastole may excessively suppress compensatory mechanisms, and thus may not lead to increased cardiac output and BP. In contrast, ivabradine potentially increases BP and improves BP-limited tolerability of cardioprotective agents in DCM patients with a large and compliant heart. In addition, subsequent titration of cardioprotective agents may provide additional cardiac reverse remodeling. Learning objective: Ivabradine is usually used for heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction when the tolerability of cardioprotective agents is maximized. This agent has no direct cardiac contractility-suppressing action. It potentially increases blood pressure and improves tolerability of cardioprotective agents in patients with a large and compliant heart such as dilated cardiomyopathy. Furthermore, subsequent titration of cardioprotective agents may provide additional cardiac reverse remodeling.

Ivabradine in Cardiovascular Disease Management Revisited: a Review

Ivabradine is a unique agent that is distinct from beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers as it reduces heart rate without affecting myocardial contractility or vascular tone. Ivabradine is a use-dependent inhibitor targeting the sinoatrial node. It is approved for use in the United States as an adjunct therapy for heart rate reduction in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. In this scenario, ivabradine has demonstrated improved clinical outcomes due to reduction in heart failure readmissions. However, there has been conflicting evidence from prospective studies and randomized controlled trials for its use in stable ischemic heart disease regarding efficacy in symptom reduction and mortality benefit. Ivabradine may also play a role in the treatment of patients with inappropriate sinus tachycardia, who often cannot tolerate beta-blockers and/or calcium channel blockers. In this review, we highlight the evidence for the nuances of using ivabradine in heart failure, stable ischemic heart disease, and inappropriate sinus tachycardia to raise awareness for its vital role in the treatment of select populations.

Combination of ivabradine and sacubitril/valsartan in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction

Aims

Ivabradine and sacubitril/valsartan are second‐line therapies for patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) based on guideline recommendations. We aimed to evaluate the synergistic effects of these two medications.

Methods and results

Patients' data were extracted from a multicentre database between 2016 and 2018. Patients were classified into (1) Simultaneous group: simultaneous prescription of ivabradine and sacubitril/valsartan within 6 weeks; (2A) Sequential group, ivabradine‐first: ivabradine was prescribed first, followed by sacubitril/valsartan; and (2B) Sequential group, sacubitril/valsartan‐first: sacubitril/valsartan was prescribed first, followed by ivabradine. A total of 464 patients with HFrEF were enrolled. Cardiovascular death and/or unplanned re‐hospitalizations for HF were less frequent (28.6% vs. 44.8%, P = 0.01), and the improvement of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly greater in patients from the Simultaneous group than those from the Sequential group (∆LVEF 12.8 ± 12.9% vs. 9.3 ± 12.6%, P = 0.007). Among Sequential subgroups, the ivabradine‐first treatment decreased heart rate and increased systolic blood pressure (SBP) compared with sacubitril/valsartan‐first treatment (∆heart rate −9.1 ± 12.9 b.p.m. vs. 2.6 ± 16.0 b.p.m., P < 0.001; ∆SBP 4.6 ± 16.5 mmHg vs. −4.8 ± 17.2 mmHg, P < 0.001), whereas sacubitril/valsartan‐first treatment showed a higher degree of LVEF improvement (∆LVEF 3.6 ± 7.8% vs. 0.7 ± 7.7%, P = 0.002) than ivabradine‐first treatment. At the end of follow‐up, SBP, LVEF, and left ventricular volume were comparable between two Sequential subgroups.

Conclusions

Among patients with HFrEF, simultaneous rather than sequential treatment with sacubitril/valsartan and ivabradine was a better strategy to reduce adverse events and achieve left ventricular reverse remodelling. Ivabradine treatment had a more significant benefit on improving haemodynamic stability, whereas sacubitril/valsartan treatment showed a more significant effect on improving LVEF.

Diastolic blood pressure predicts outcomes after aortic paravalvular leak closure

OBJECTIVES

We sought to determine hemodynamic effects of aortic paravalvular leak (PVL) and predictors of clinical outcomes after aortic PVL closure.

BACKGROUND

The significance of hemodynamic alterations in PVL and relation to severity, procedural success of percutaneous closure and clinical outcomes have not been defined.

METHODS

Patients undergoing percutaneous PVL closure between July 21, 2004 and September 10, 2018 were included. PVL severity was assessed by echocardiography and aortic angiography. Hemodynamics were assessed by intra-arterial pressure tracings before and after PVL closure. The primary outcome was a composite of mortality, redo aortic valve replacement (AVR) and redo PVL closure.

RESULTS

One hundred and seventeen patients (mean age 70.3 ± 14.9 years, 79% surgical and 21% transcatheter prostheses) underwent PVL closure with 94% technical success. PVL was moderate or greater in 106 (91%) at baseline and 11 (11%) post-procedure. Diastolic BP for those with moderate or greater PVL was lower than for those with less PVL (50.3 ± 11.7 vs. 56.5 ± 12.4 mmHg, p < .001). Pulse pressure was similar between these groups (69.9 ± 20.3 vs. 67.4 ± 21.2 mmHg, p = .39). 35 patients (34%) had 40 events during a mean follow-up of 1.6 ± 1.9 years (23 deaths, 12 redo AVR, and five redo PVL closures). In a multivariate model, final diastolic BP <47 mmHg (HR 3.27 [1.45-7.36], p = .007) was a significant predictor of the composite endpoint.

CONCLUSIONS

Diastolic BP was significantly associated with aortic PVL severity and clinical outcomes after PVL closure. In contrast, pulse pressure did not correlate with PVL severity or outcomes. These findings have implications for clinical management of patients with aortic PVL.

Effects of adding ivabradine to usual care in patients with angina pectoris: a systematic review of randomised clinical trials with meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the impact of ivabradine on outcomes important to patients with angina pectoris caused by coronary artery disease.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review. We included randomised clinical trials comparing ivabradine versus placebo or no intervention for patients with angina pectoris due to coronary artery disease published prior to June 2020. We used Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, Cochrane methodology, Trial Sequential Analysis, Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation, and our eight-step procedure. Primary outcomes were all-cause mortality, serious adverse events and quality of life.

RESULTS

We included 47 randomised clinical trials enrolling 35 797 participants. All trials and outcomes were at high risk of bias. Ivabradine compared with control did not have effects when assessing all-cause mortality (risk ratio [RR] 1.04; 95% CI 0.96 to 1.13), quality of life (standardised mean differences -0.05; 95% CI -0.11 to 0.01), cardiovascular mortality (RR 1.07; 95% CI 0.97 to 1.18) and myocardial infarction (RR 1.03; 95% CI 0.91 to 1.16). Ivabradine seemed to increase the risk of serious adverse events after removal of outliers (RR 1.07; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.11) as well as the following adverse events classified as serious: bradycardia, prolonged QT interval, photopsia, atrial fibrillation and hypertension. Ivabradine also increased the risk of non-serious adverse events (RR 1.13; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.16). Ivabradine might have a statistically significant effect when assessing angina frequency (mean difference (MD) 2.06; 95% CI 0.82 to 3.30) and stability (MD 1.48; 95% CI 0.07 to 2.89), but the effect sizes seemed minimal and possibly without any relevance to patients, and we identified several methodological limitations, questioning the validity of these results.

CONCLUSION

Our findings do not support that ivabradine offers significant benefits on patient important outcomes, but rather seems to increase the risk of serious adverse events such as atrial fibrillation and non-serious adverse events. Based on current evidence, guidelines need reassessment and the use of ivabradine for angina pectoris should be reconsidered.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42018112082.

Isolated systolic hypertension in Asia

Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is the most common type of essential hypertension in the elderly and young adults. With rapid industrialization and population aging, the prevalence of ISH in Asia will rise substantially. Asian populations have distinct epidemiological features, risk factors and are especially vulnerable to ISH. There is a pressing need for Asian countries to formulate their unique strategies for control of ISH. In this review, we focus on the (1) epidemiology and pathophysiology, (2) risk factors and impact on outcomes, and (3) treatment goal and strategy for ISH in Asia.

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system: a crossroad from arterial hypertension to heart failure

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) plays a pivotal role in the regulation of blood pressure and volume homeostasis, promoting critical structural changes in every component of the cardiovascular system, including the heart and blood vessels. Consequently, the RAAS is a crucial therapeutic target for several chronic diseases of the cardiovascular system, spanning from arterial hypertension (AH) to heart failure (HF). AH represents a leading risk factor for the development of symptomatic HF, particularly with left ventricle (LV) preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). LV diastolic dysfunction and cardiac remodelling are the first discernible manifestations of heart disease in patients with AH. Typically, AH develops many years before the diagnosis of overt HF, providing a therapeutic target for preventive strategies. Treatment of AH is based on different classes of antihypertensive drugs, which show differences in their capacity to prevent the evolution towards HF. The blockers of the RAAS are effective drugs to treat AH and prevent HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), but the evidence of the potential benefits in patients with HFpEF remains limited. In this review, the authors summarise data from several clinical trials of HFpEF and HFrEF, focusing on the mechanisms leading the transition from AH to HF and late complications.

[Frequency of use and Indications for Beta-Blockers in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction]

Aim      To evaluate trends in beta-blocker prescribing and incidence of possible reasons for beta-blocker administration, including arterial hypertension (AH), atrial fibrillation (AF), ischemic heart disease (IHD), and myocardial infarction, in participants of clinical studies enrolling patients with chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (CHF-PEF).Material and methods  A systematic literature search was performed in the PubMed and EMBASE databases. The study included RCSs of pharmacological therapies for patients with CHF-PEF conducted from 1993 through 2019. Studies of beta-blocker efficacy or those including a specific population (CHF-PEF+IHD or CHF-PEF+AH, etc.) were excluded from the analysis. Baseline characteristics of patients, incidence rate of beta-blocker prescribing, and prevalence of AH, AF, IHD, and MI were recorded. Trends in prevalence of concomitant diseases and the proportion of patients using beta-blockers by the year of enrollment to the study were analyzed with the Mann-Kendall test.Results 14 RCSs of 718 selected publications completely met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Beta-blocker prescribing significantly increased between 1993 and 2019 (tau=0.51; p=0.014) and reached 80 % in recent studies. Furthermore, prevalence of IHD, MI, AH, and AF did not significantly change among the RCS participants (p&gt;0.05 for all). However, while for AH and AF, a tendency toward an increasing prevalence (tau=0.4; p=0.055 and tau=0.043; p=0.063, respectively) could be considered and became statistically significant for AF when the ALDO-DHF study was excluded from the analysis (tau=0.5; p=0.042), the MI prevalence tended to decrease (tau= -0.73; p=0.06).Conclusion      Beta-blocker prescribing to patients upon inclusion into RCSs for CHF-PEF has significantly increased for the recent 20 years while the incidence of formal reasons for beta-blocker administration (AF, AH, MI, IHD) did not significantly change.

Heart rate as a predictor of cardiovascular risk

Heart rate is a parameter that is very easy to measure and is widely used both in clinic and during daily life activities. Its value gained more relevance with the evidence, in prospective studies and meta-analysis, of association between elevated heart rate values and diseases and outcomes.The increased knowledge of physiological mechanisms of heart rate control and the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for its dysfunction allows to identify the cut-off value of normalcy providing info for non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatments to reduce the cardiovascular risk both in general population and in pathophysiological conditions. This paper overviews the knowledges of the role of resting heart rate as predictor of cardiovascular risk.

Atenolol's Inferior Ability to Reduce Central vs Peripheral Blood Pressure Can Be Explained by the Combination of Its Heart Rate-Dependent and Heart Rate-Independent Effects

Objective

Whether the inferior ability of atenolol to reduce central (aortic) compared to peripheral (brachial) blood pressure (BP) is related to its heart rate (HR)-dependent or -independent effects, or their combination, remains unclear. To provide further mechanistic insight into this topic, we studied the acute effects of atenolol versus nebivolol and ivabradine on systolic blood pressure amplification (SBPA; peripheral systolic BP minus central systolic BP) in a model of sick sinus syndrome patients with a permanent dual-chamber cardiac pacemaker in a nonrandomized single-blind single-group clinical trial.

Methods

We determined hemodynamic indices noninvasively (Sphygmocor XCEL) before and at least 3 h after administration of oral atenolol 50 or 100 mg, nebivolol 5 mg, or ivabradine 5 or 7.5 mg during atrial pacing at a low (40 bpm), middle (60 bpm), and high (90 bpm) HR level in 25 participants (mean age 65.5 years, 12 men).

Results

At the low HR level, i.e., when the drugs could exert their HR-dependent and HR-independent effects on central BP, only atenolol produced a significant decrease in SBPA (mean change 0.74 ± 1.58 mmHg (95% CI, 0.09-1.40; P = 0.028)), indicating inferior central vs peripheral systolic BP change. However, we observed no significant change in SBPA with atenolol at the middle and high HR levels, i.e., when HR-dependent mechanisms had been eliminated by pacing.

Conclusion

The findings of our trial with a mechanistic approach to the topic imply that the inferior ability of atenolol to reduce central vs peripheral BP can be explained by the combination of its heart rate-dependent and -independent effects. This trial is registered with NCT03245996.

Beta-blockers withdrawal in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and chronotropic incompetence: Effect on functional capacity rationale and study design of a prospective, randomized, controlled trial (The Preserve-HR trial)

Background

The pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is complex and multifactorial. Chronotropic incompetence (ChI) has emerged as a crucial pathophysiological mechanism. Beta‐blockers, drugs with negative chronotropic effects, are commonly used in HFpEF, although current evidence does not support its routine use in these patients.

Hypothesis

We postulate beta‐blockers may have deleterious effects in HFpEF and ChI. This work aims to evaluate the short‐term effect of beta‐blockers withdrawal on functional capacity assessed by the maximal oxygen uptake (peakVO2) in patients with HFpEF and ChI.

Methods

This is a prospective, crossover, randomized (1:1) and multicenter study. After randomization, the clinical and cardiac rhythm will be continuously registered for 30 days. PeakVO2 is assessed by cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) at 15 and 30 days in both groups. Secondary endpoints include quality of life, cognitive, and safety assessment. Patients with stable HFpEF, functional class New York Heart Association (NYHA) II‐III, chronic treatment with beta‐blockers, and ChI will be enrolled. A sample size estimation [alfa: 0.05, power: 90%, a 20% loss rate, and delta change of mean peakVO2: +1.2 mL/kg/min (SD ± 2.0)] of 52 patients is necessary to test our hypothesis.

Results

Patients started enrolling in October 2018. As January 14th, 2020, 28 patients have been enrolled. It is projected to enroll the last patient at the end of July 2020.

Conclusions

Optimizing therapy that improves functional capacity remains an unmeet priority in HFpEF. Deprescribing beta‐blockers in patients with HFpEF and ChI seems a plausible intervention to improve functional capacity. This trial is an attempt towards precision medicine in this complex syndrome.

Trial registration

http://clinicaltrials.gov: NCT03871803.

Differential Effect of β-Blockers According to Heart Rate in Acute Myocardial Infarction Without Heart Failure or Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction: A Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of β-blockers according to heart rate in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) without heart failure (HF) or left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We enrolled patients with AMI without HF or LVSD between June 1, 2003, and February 28, 2015, from Seoul National University Hospital Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry. Patients were categorized according to discharge heart rate recorded on electrocardiographs and β-blocker use. Low heart rate was defined as less than 75 beats/min. The primary end point was 5-year all-cause mortality according to discharge heart rate and β-blocker use.

RESULTS

Of 2271 patients, 1696 (74.7%) received β-blockers and 1427 (62.8%) had low heart rates. At 5 years after discharge, 205 patients died. Overall, patients with low heart rates (P<.001) and those with β-blocker treatment had lower mortality (P<.001). After adjustment for covariates, β-blocker use was associated with 48% reduced risk for 5-year mortality in patients with high heart rates (hazard ratio, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.35-0.76), but not in those with low heart rates (P=.97). In an inverse-probability treatment-weighted cohort, β-blocker use was also associated with improved mortality in those with a high heart rate. Findings were similar for 5-year cardiovascular mortality.

CONCLUSION

Among survivors with AMI without HF or LVSD, β-blocker use was associated with reduced 5-year all-cause mortality in patients who have high heart rates, but not in those with low heart rates.

Nondipping heart rate and associated factors in patients with chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Nondipping heart rate (NHR) is a condition reported to be associated with cardiovascular events and cardiovascular mortality recently. We aimed to search whether there is difference among hypertensive patients with and without chronic kidney disease (CKD) in terms of NHR pattern and the factors associated with NHR in patients with CKD.

METHODS

The study included 133 hypertensive patients with normal kidney functions, 97 hypertensive patients with predialysis CKD, and 31 hypertensive hemodialysis patients. Heart rate, blood pressure and pulse wave velocity (PWV) were measured by 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitorization. NHR was defined as a decrease of less than 10% at night mean heart rate when compared with daytime values.

RESULTS

NHR pattern was established as 26.3% in non-CKD hypertensive group, 43.3% in predialysis group and 77.4% in dialysis group. Among patients with CKD, when NHR group was compared with dipper heart rate group, it was seen that they were at older age, there were higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus and more female sex, and while the value of urea, creatinine, phosphorus, intact parathyroid hormone, and PWV were significantly higher, the value of hemoglobin, albumin and calcium were significantly lower. By multivariate analysis, hemoglobin [odds ratio (OR) 0.661; 95% CI 0.541-0.806; p < 0.001] and PWV (OR 1.433; 95% CI 1.107-1.853; p = 0.006) were established as independent determinants of NHR pattern.

CONCLUSIONS

NHR pattern is significantly more frequently seen in hypertensive CKD patients than in hypertensive patients with non-CKD. Anemia and increased arterial stiffness are seen independently associated with NHR in CKD patients.

Misconceptions and Facts About Beta-Blockers

Beta-blockers are commonly used medications, and they have been traditionally considered "cardioprotective." Their clinical use appears to be more widespread than the available evidence base supporting their role in cardioprotection. Beta-blockers counteract neurohumoral activation in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and offer both symptomatic improvement and reduction in adverse events. On the other hand, the use of beta-blockers in uncomplicated hypertension results in suboptimal outcomes compared to the established first-line antihypertensive agents. Providers at all levels should be familiar with common misconceptions regarding beta-blocker use in routine clinical practice.

Isolated systolic hypertension in the young: a position paper endorsed by the European Society of Hypertension

: Whether isolated systolic hypertension in the young (ISHY) implies a worse outcome and needs antihypertensive treatment is still a matter for dispute. ISHY is thought to have different mechanisms than systolic hypertension in the elderly. However, findings from previous studies have provided inconsistent results. From the analysis of the literature, two main lines of research and conceptualization have emerged. Simultaneous assessment of peripheral and central blood pressure led to the identification of a condition called pseudo or spurious hypertension, which was considered an innocent condition. However, an increase in pulse wave velocity has been found by some authors in about 20% of the individuals with ISHY. In addition, obesity and metabolic disturbances have often been documented to be associated with ISHY both in children and young adults. The first aspect to consider whenever evaluating a person with ISHY is the possible presence of white-coat hypertension, which has been frequently found in this condition. In addition, assessment of central blood pressure is useful for identifying ISHY patients whose central blood pressure is normal. ISHY is infrequently mentioned in the guidelines on diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. According to the 2013 European Guidelines on the management of hypertension, people with ISHY should be followed carefully, modifying risk factors by lifestyle changes and avoiding antihypertensive drugs. Only future clinical trials will elucidate if a benefit can be achieved with pharmacological treatment in some subgroups of ISHY patients with associated risk factors and/or high central blood pressure.

Digoxin and prognosis of heart failure in older patients with preserved ejection fraction: Importance of heart rate. Results from an observational and multicenter study

BACKGROUND

The value of digoxin in heart failure (HF) remains controversial, particularly in patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This study evaluated the 1-year risk of events after digoxin treatment for acute heart failure (AHF) in patients >70 years old with HFpEF.

METHODS

1833 patients were included in this analysis (mean age, 82 years). The main endpoints were all-cause death and the composite of death and/or HF re-admission within 1 year. Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between digoxin treatment and prognosis.

RESULTS

401 patients received digoxin treatment; of these, 86% had atrial fibrillation. The mean baseline heart rate was 86 ± 22 bpm. At the 1-year follow-up, 375 patients (20.5%) died and 684 (37.3%) presented composite endpoints. Patients treated with digoxin showed higher rates of death (3.21 vs. 2.44 per 10 person-years, p = .019) and composite endpoint (6.72 vs. 5.18 per 10 person-years, p = .003). After multivariate adjustment, digoxin treatment remained associated with increased risks of death (HR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.16-1.85, p = .001) and the composite endpoint (HR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.13-1.61, p = .001). A distinctive prognostic effect of digoxin was found across the heart rate continuum; the risks for both endpoints were higher at lower heart rates and neutral at higher heart rates (p of the interactions = 0.007 and 0.03, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In older patients with HFpEF discharged after AHF, digoxin treatment was associated with increased mortality and/or re-admission, particularly in patients with lower heart rates.

Insights on β-blockers for the treatment of hypertension: A survey of health care practitioners

A quantitative survey was completed by 103 primary care physicians (PCPs) and 59 cardiologists who regularly prescribed β-blockers to assess knowledge and use of this heterogeneous drug class for hypertension. More cardiologists than PCPs chose β-blockers as initial antihypertensive therapy (30% vs 17%, P < 0.01). Metoprolol and carvedilol were the most commonly prescribed β-blockers. Cardiologists rated "impact on energy" and "arterial vasodilation" as more important than PCPs (P < 0.05/<0.01, respectively). Awareness of vasodilation was greater for carvedilol (52%) than nebivolol (31%). Association between β-blockers and clinical variables included nebivolol with β₁ -selectivity, nebivolol and carvedilol with vasodilation and efficacy in older patients and African Americans, metoprolol with heart rate reduction, and atenolol and metoprolol with weight gain and hyperglycemia. Physicians preferred prescribing β-blockers with lower risk of incident diabetes. Clinical practice guidelines influenced physician prescribing more than formularies or performance metrics. This survey captures physicians' perceptions/use of various β-blockers and clinically relevant knowledge gaps.

Risk of All-Cause Mortality in Diabetic Patients Taking β-Blockers

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relationship between use of β-blockers and all-cause mortality in patients with and without diabetes.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Using data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2010, we conducted a prospective cohort study. The study participants were followed-up from the survey participation date until December 31, 2011. We used a Cox proportional hazards model for all-cause mortality analysis. The multivariate-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of the participants taking β-blockers were compared with those of the participants not taking β-blockers.

RESULTS

This study included 2840 diabetic participants and 14,684 nondiabetic participants. Compared with diabetic participants not taking a β-blocker, all-cause mortality was significantly higher in diabetic participants taking any β-blocker (HR, 1.49; 95% CI, 1.09-2.04; P=.01), taking a β₁-selective β-blocker (HR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.13-2.24; P=.007), or taking a specific β-blocker (bisoprolol, metoprolol, and carvedilol) (HR, 1.55; 95% CI, 1.09-2.21; P=.01). In addition, all-cause mortality in diabetic participants with coronary heart disease (CHD) was significantly higher in those taking beta-blockers, compared with those not taking beta-blockers (HR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.08-2.48; P=.02), whereas that in non-diabetic participants with CHD was significantly lower in those taking beta-blockers (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.50-0.94; P=.02). A propensity score-matched Cox proportional hazards model yielded similar results.

CONCLUSION

Use of β-blockers may be associated with an increased risk of mortality for patients with diabetes and among the subset who have CHD.

Heart rate as a predictor of cardiovascular risk

BACKGROUND

Heart rate (HR) is a predictor of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and all-cause mortality in the general population, as well as in patients with cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases. We aimed to summarize current knowledge regarding the influence of HR on cardio- and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, MEDLINE, Ovid and EMBASE databases were searched for large follow-up studies or meta-analysis published between January 1990 and September 2017 in the English language using the following keyword "heart rate," "resting heart rate," "mortality," "outcome," "hypertension," "heart failure," "ischaemic heart disease," "coronary heart disease" and "stroke."

RESULTS

The relationship between increased HR and cardio- and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality has been reported in a large number of studies, and the results regarding this association are concurrent. This connection is generally stronger in men than in women. The increase in HR usually occurs in parallel with elevation of blood pressure and metabolic disturbances (insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia). However, even after adjustment for the most important cardiovascular risk factors, HR remained an independent predictor of adverse events in global population or in patients with cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases.

CONCLUSION

HR has an important negative effect on cardio- and cerebrovascular morbidity and mortality. Future longitudinal investigations should clarify HR significance and optimal HR reduction for primary and secondary prevention in cardio- and cerebrovascular events.

Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: "Connecting the Dots" in Epidemiology and Pathophysiology

There is robust evidence from epidemiological and clinical studies showing that elevated heart rate (HR) constitutes a powerful predictor of morbidity and mortality in patients with hypertension, underlining the significance of HR measurement in them. Autonomous nervous system dysfunction and atherosclerosis are important features in the pathogenesis of the untoward events. However, the relationship between HR and blood pressure (BP) is complex and differs depending on the type of BP measurement which is considered. This differentiation implicates complex physiological mechanisms and is of clinical importance regarding the divergent effect of the different types of antihypertensive agents on these parameters. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence on the relationship between HR and BP based on epidemiological, clinical, and experimental studies.

Isolated Systolic Hypertension: An Update After SPRINT

Isolated systolic hypertension is the most common hemodynamic form of hypertension in the elderly. With a rapidly aging population, the prevalence of hypertension, particularly isolated systolic hypertension, is expected to increase substantially. This phenomenon of increasing systolic pressure in the elderly is believed to be secondary to pathophysiological changes of aging as well as modifiable risk factors. Isolated systolic hypertension is associated with substantial mortality and morbidity, particularly of cerebrovascular disease. It is a rapidly growing public health concern and its management continues to remain a challenge to practicing physicians. Recent studies like the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) and Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation (HOPE)-3 have implications for antihypertensive therapy in general and for the management of isolated systolic hypertension in particular. In this article we will review: 1) epidemiology and pathophysiologic mechanisms, 2) impact of isolated systolic hypertension on cardiovascular outcomes, 3) optimal management strategies, and 4) systolic blood pressure goals in the light of SPRINT and HOPE 3 trials.