Serial assessment of left ventricular chamber stiffness after acute myocardial infarction

Evolution of Diastolic Dysfunction in Patients with Coronary Slow Flow Phenomenon and Acute Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Diastolic function has been reported to be impaired in many patients with coronary slow flow phenomenon (CSFP). CSFP has broad spectrum of clinical presentations, including non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). We sought to study the short-term evolution of diastolic function in CSFP patients presenting with NSTEMI.

METHODS

This study included 92 patients with CSFP and acute NSTEMI. Conventional echocardiography Doppler imaging and tissue Doppler echocardiography imaging were used to evaluate diastolic function during index NSTEMI and after 3 months.

RESULTS

Mean age of study patients was 45.7 ± 6.8 years. The prevalence of diastolic dysfunction (DD) at baseline was 69 patients (75%) and 28 patients (30.4%) at 3 months, p < 0.001. Various diastolic function indices showed significant improvement from baseline to 3 months follow-up. E/Em was 17.32 ± 3.41 at baseline compared to 12.41 ± 5.58 at 3 months, p = 0.039. Septal e' velocity was 5.67 ± 4.56 cm/s at baseline compared to 7.78 ± 3.22 cm/s at 3 months, p = 0.023. Medications used were not significantly different between those with improved versus unimproved DD.

CONCLUSIONS

Diastolic function seems to improve over short-term follow-up in patients with CSFP presenting with NSTEMI. This could reflect a transient worsening during acute NSTEMI.

Fructose plus High-Salt Diet in Early Life Results in Salt-Sensitive Cardiovascular Changes in Mature Male Sprague Dawley Rats

Fructose and salt intake remain high, particularly in adolescents and young adults. The present studies were designed to evaluate the impact of high fructose and/or salt during pre- and early adolescence on salt sensitivity, blood pressure, arterial compliance, and left ventricular (LV) function in maturity. Male 5-week-old Sprague Dawley rats were studied over three 3-week phases (Phases I, II, and III). Two reference groups received either 20% glucose + 0.4% NaCl (GCS-GCS) or 20% fructose + 4% NaCl (FHS-FHS) throughout this study. The two test groups ingested fructose + 0.4% NaCl (FCS) or FHS during Phase I, then GCS in Phase II, and were then challenged with 20% glucose + 4% NaCl (GHS) in Phase III: FCS-GHS and FHS-GHS, respectively. Compared with GCS-GCS, systolic and mean pressures were significantly higher at the end of Phase III in all groups fed fructose during Phase I. Aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) was elevated at the end of Phase I in FHS-GHS and FHS-FHS (vs. GCS-GCS). At the end of Phase III, PWV and renal resistive index were higher in FHS-GHS and FHS-FHS vs. GCS-GCS. Diastolic, but not systolic, LV function was impaired in the FHS-GHS and FHS-FHS but not FCS-FHS rats. Consumption of 20% fructose by male rats during adolescence results in salt-sensitive hypertension in maturity. When ingested with a high-salt diet during this early plastic phase, dietary fructose also predisposes to vascular stiffening and LV diastolic dysfunction in later life.

Pentraxin-3 is Associated with Adverse Diastolic Remodeling in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction after Successful Reperfusion by Primary Percutaneous Intervention

Background:

Determinants of adverse diastolic remodeling in ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) after successful revascularization are not well established. Besides, the relationship between Pentraxin-3 (PTX-3) and diastolic function deterioration is unknown. This study hypothesizes that PTX-3 level would be associated with diastolic remodeling.

Materials and Methods:

Ninety-eight STEMI patients were included in our study. Echocardiography was performed before and 12–18 weeks after discharge. Two groups were generated according to the PTX-3 value, and the follow-up/baseline echocardiographic parameters were compared. Diastolic adverse remodeling was accepted as a persistent restrictive filling pattern or an increase in at least one grade of diastolic dysfunction. The independent predictors of diastolic adverse remodeling were investigated.

Results:

Adverse diastolic remodeling was detected in 19.3% of patients. High left ventricular mass index (odds ratio [OR]: 1.096, confidence interval [CI] 95%: 1.023–1.174, P = 0.009), high PTX-3 (OR: 1.005, CI 95%: 1.001–1.009, P = 0.024), and failing to achieve thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow 3 after percutaneous coronary intervention (OR: 6.196, CI 95%: 1.370–28.023, P = 0.005) were determined as independent predictors of adverse diastolic remodeling. The ratio of follow-up/baseline left atrial volume index was higher in the high PTX-3 group (1.15 vs. 1.05, P = 0.029). Moreover, being in the high PTX-3 group predicted adverse diastolic remodeling at 7.4 times.

Conclusion:

Higher PTX-3 level is associated with adverse diastolic remodeling in STEMI patients.

Relationship of ischemic times and left atrial volume and function in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention

Little is known about the impact of duration of ischemia on left atrial (LA) volumes and function during acute phase of myocardial infarction. We investigated the relationship of ischemic times, echocardiographic indices of diastolic function and LA volumes in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A total of 433 consecutive STEMI patients underwent echocardiographic examination within 48 h of primary PCI, including the measurement of LA volumes and the ratio of mitral peak velocity of early filling to early diastolic mitral annular velocity (E/e'). Time intervals from onset of chest pain to hospital admission and reperfusion were collected and magnitude of Troponin I release was used to assess infarct size. Patients with LA volume index (LAVI) ≥28 ml/m(2) had longer total ischemic time (410 ± 347 vs. 303 ± 314 min, p = 0.007) and higher E/e' ratio (15 ± 5 vs. 10 ± 3, p < 0.001) than those with LAVI <28 ml/m(2), while the indices of LA function were similar between the study groups (p > 0.05, for all). Significant correlation was found between E/e' and LA volumes at all stages of LA filling and contraction (r = 0.363-0.434; p < 0.001, for all) while total ischemic time along with E/e' and restrictive filling pattern remained independent predictor of LA enlargement. Increased LA volume is associated with longer ischemic times and may be a sensitive marker of increased left ventricular filling pressures in STEMI patients treated with primary PCI.

Prognostic implications of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure during primary percutaneous coronary intervention for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: Findings from the Assessment of Pexelizumab in Acute Myocardial Infarction study

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) is frequently measured during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, little is known of this measurement's utility in predicting outcomes or informing treatment decisions. We sought to determine the prognostic value of LVEDP measured during primary PCI for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS

We studied 1,909 (33.2%) of 5,745 STEMI patients in whom LVEDP was measured during primary PCI in the APEX-AMI trial. Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate whether LVEDP was an independent predictor of mortality and the composite of death, cardiogenic shock, or congestive heart failure (CHF) at 90 days.

RESULTS

The median (25th, 75th percentiles) LVEDP level was 22 mm Hg (16, 29); compared with patients with LVEDP ≤ 22 mm Hg, those with LVEDP > 22 mm Hg had higher rates of CHF (7.3% vs 3.1%, P < .001), cardiogenic shock (4.6% vs 1.7%, P < .001), and death (4.1% vs 2.2%, P = .014) at 90 days. After multivariable adjustment, LVEDP was associated with increased risk of mortality through 90 days (adjusted hazard ratio 1.22, 95% CI 1.02-1.46, per 5-mmHg increase, P = .044) and the composite of death, cardiogenic shock, or CHF within the first 2 days (adjusted hazard ratio 1.40, 95% CI 1.23-1.59, per 5-mm Hg increase, P < .001), but not from day 3 to 90 (P = .25).

CONCLUSIONS

Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure measured during primary PCI for STEMI is an independent predictor of inhospital and longer term cardiovascular outcomes. Measuring LVEDP may be useful to stratify patient risk and guide postinfarct treatment.

Restrictive left ventricular filling pattern and risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation after acute myocardial infarction

Mechanisms for atrial arrhythmias that occur in the context of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have not been well characterized. AMI often leads to alterations in left ventricular (LV) filling dynamics, which may result in advanced diastolic dysfunction. Diastolic dysfunction may produce increased left atrial (LA) pressure and initiate LA remodeling, promoting the progression to atrial fibrillation (AF). We studied 1,169 patients admitted with AMI. Advanced diastolic dysfunction was defined as a restrictive filling pattern (RFP), defined as ratio of early to late transmitral velocity of mitral inflow >1.5 or deceleration time <130 ms. The relation between RFP and the primary end point of new-onset AF occurring within 6 months was analyzed using multivariable Cox models. Of 1,169 patients (70% men, mean ± SD 64 ± 10 years of age), 110 (9.4%) developed new-onset AF (19.6% and 7.5% in patients with and without RFP, respectively, p <0.0001). RFP was associated with a hazard ratio of 2.72 for AF (95% confidence interval 1.83 to 4.05, p <0.0001). After multivariable adjustments for clinical variables, LV ejection fraction (EF) and LA size, RFP remained an independent predictor of AF (hazard ratio 2.17, 95% confidence interval 1.42 to 3.32, p <0.0001). Risk of AF was higher in patients with RFP for preserved (≥45%, hazard ratio 2.14, 95% confidence interval 1.09 to 4.20, p = 0.03) or decreased (hazard ratio 2.80, 95% confidence interval 1.63 to 4.82, p <0.0001) LVEF. In contrast, decreased LVEF in the absence of RFP was similar to that of patients with preserved LVEF and without RFP. In conclusion, in patients with AMI, presence of advanced diastolic dysfunction was independently associated with new-onset AF, suggesting that increased filling pressures may contribute to the development of AF after AMI.

Risk factors for development of left ventricular thrombus after first acute anterior myocardial infarction-association with anticardiolipin antibodies

Background

Left ventricular thrombus(LVT] formation is a frequent complication in patients with acute anterior myocardial infarction(MI). LVT is associated with increased risk of embolism and higher mortality rates after acute MI. Anticardiolipin antibodies (ACA) are immunoglobulins that react with phospholipid-binding proteins interfering with the prothrombin activator complex. The effects of phospholipids on pathophysiology of cardiovascular thrombotic events are well known. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the importance of clinical and biochemical parameters including anticardiolipin antibodies on left ventricular thrombus formation after acute anterior MI.

Methods and Results

Seventy patients with a first anterior AMI were prospectively and consecutively enrolled. Patients with previous MI, autoimmune disease, collagen vascular disease and arterial or venous thrombosis history were excluded from this study. At the time of hospitalization, key demographic and clinical characteristics were collected including age, gender, ethanol intake and presence of traditional risk factors for atherosclerosis (hypertension, diabetes, smoking, hyperlipidemia, positive family history). Patients were evaluated for echocardiographic data, blood chemistry and ACA. Two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiographic examinations were performed in all patients within the first week and at 14 days after MI. LV thrombus was detected in 30 (42.8%) patients. ACA IgM levels were significantly higher in the patient group with LV thrombus than in the group without thrombus (12.44 ±4.12 vs. 7.69 ± 4.25 mpl, p = 0,01). ACA IgG levels were also found higher in the group with LV thrombus (24.2 ± 7.5 vs.17.98 ± 6.45 gpl, p = 0.02). Multivariate analyses revealed diabetes mellitus, higher WMSI, lower MDT and higher ACA IgM and higher ACA IgG levels as independent predictors of left ventricular thrombus formation.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that beside the low ejection fraction, lower MDT and higher wall motion score index, modestly elevated ACA IgM and ACA IgG levels are associated with LV thrombus formation in patients with anterior MI.

Impact of diastolic dysfunction on the development of heart failure in diabetic patients after acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is often associated with an abnormal diastolic function. However, there are no data regarding the contribution of diastolic dysfunction to the development of heart failure (HF) in diabetic patients after acute myocardial infarction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A total of 1513 patients with acute myocardial infarction (417 diabetic) underwent echocardiographic examination during the index hospitalization. Severe diastolic dysfunction was defined as a restrictive filling pattern (RFP) based on E/A ratio >1.5 or deceleration time <130 ms. The primary end points of the study were readmission for HF and all-cause mortality. The frequency of RFP was higher in patients with diabetes (20 versus 14%; P=0.005). During a median follow-up of 17 months (range, 8 to 39 months), 52 (12.5%) and 62 (5.7%) HF events occurred in patients with and without diabetes, respectively (P<0.001). There was a significant interaction between diabetes and RFP (P=0.04) such that HF events among diabetic patients occurred mainly in those with RFP. The adjusted hazard ratio for HF was 2.77 (95%, CI 1.41 to 5.46) in diabetic patients with RFP and 1.21 (95% CI, 0.75 to 1.55) in diabetic patients without RFP. A borderline interaction (P=0.059) was present with regard to mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.39 [95% CI, 1.57 to 7.34] versus 1.61 [95% CI, 1.04 to 2.51] in diabetic patients with and without RFP, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Severe diastolic dysfunction is more common among diabetic patients after acute myocardial infarction and portends adverse outcome. HF and mortality in diabetic patients occur predominantly in those with concomitant RFP.

Combination study of myocardial perfusion and left ventricular filling provides an excellent prediction of clinical outcomes in patients with reperfused myocardial infarction

The no reflow phenomenon and left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction are surrogate markers of poor outcomes in patients with myocardial infarction (MI). We studied the relationship between contrast perfusion defects and restrictive filling patterns for predicting prognosis after MI. Mitral inflow velocity and myocardial contrast perfusion were studied 2 weeks after reperfusion in 226 consecutive patients with acute MI. The cohort was divided into two groups according to the number of perfusion defect segments (PD); large-PD and small-PD. Mitral inflow was classified into two categories according to deceleration time; non-restrictive and restrictive. The patients were divided into 4 groups (small-PD/non-restrictive, n = 124; small-PD/restrictive, n = 29; large-PD/non-restrictive, n = 50; large-PD/restrictive, n = 23). LV end-diastolic volume index was the greatest and cardiac event rate was the highest in large-PD/restrictive, followed by large- PD/non-restrictive, small-PD/restrictive, and by small- PD/non-restrictive (81 +/- 19 vs. 74 +/- 17 vs. 66 +/- 19 vs. 59 +/- 15 ml/m2, events: 61 % vs. 16% vs. 14% vs. 8 %). Multivariate analysis revealed the large-PD is the most powerful predictive factor related to cardiac events (odds ratio = 5.5, P = 0.004) followed by the restrictive filing pattern (4.3, P = 0.005). Co-existence of large-PD and restrictive filling is a strong predictor of adverse outcomes in the patients with MI.

Correlation of the Tei Index With Left Ventricular Dilatation and Mortality in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction

The Tei index is an echocardiographic index of combined systolic and diastolic function, calculated as isovolumetric relaxation time plus isovolumetric contraction time divided by ejection time. The aim of this study was to define the correlation of the Tei index with left ventricular dilatation and mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). A total of 77 patients (58 men, 19 women) with a mean age of 53 +/- 12 years, who had presented with an AMI in our clinic between June 2001 and February 2002 were compared with a control group of 88 healthy subjects (63 men, 25 women) with a mean age of 55 +/- 6 years. Echocardiographic evaluation was carried out within 24 hours and the third month of AMI, using a 3.5 MHz probe with pulse wave Doppler recordings by the adult cardiac mode of an Acuson C 256 echocardiograph. There were statistically significant differences between the 2 groups in all echocardiographic parameters, except mitral A wave. Thirteen patients died during the follow-up period of 3 months. The Tei index was significantly higher in the patients who died compared with those who survived (0.70 +/- 0.10 versus 0.61 +/- 0.10; P < 0.001). The patients who had heart failure after AMI had a mean Tei index value of 0.76 +/- 0.27, whereas the patients who did not have heart failure after AMI had a significantly lower Tei index value of 0.60 +/- 0.32 (P < 0.05). Patients were divided into 2 groups according to their Tei index. Patients with a > 0.60 Tei index had significantly higher end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes compared to patients with a < 0.60 Tei index (P < 0.001 for both) in the acute phase of AMI. Within 3 months, patients with a Tei index < 0.60 had a significant reduction in end-diastolic volumes (P < 0.01), whereas the end-diastolic volumes did not change significantly in patients with an index > 0.60 (P = 0.19). The Tei index is an important indicator of left ventricular dysfunction and death after AMI. A greater Tei index at the onset of AMI is associated with a higher incidence of subsequent cardiac death, CHF, and progressive LV remodeling.

Risk Assessment in Patients with Depressed Left Ventricular Function After Myocardial Infarction Using the Myocardial Performance Index–Survival and Ventricular Enlargement (SAVE) Experience

BACKGROUND

Myocardial performance index (MPI) is a noninvasive, quantitative Doppler measure of global cardiac function, integrating systolic and diastolic functions. The prognostic significance of MPI is less clear for cardiovascular (CV) events after myocardial infarction (MI) among individuals at high risk with depressed left ventricular (LV) systolic function.

METHODS

We analyzed echocardiograms from 512 patients with depressed LV function after MI enrolled in the Survival and Ventricular Enlargement (SAVE) echocardiographic substudy. Baseline MPI measures were obtainable in 226 patients. The cohort was separated by median MPI (0.50). MPI was related to baseline clinical and echocardiographic characteristics, ventricular remodeling, and subsequent CV events, including recurrent MI, heart failure, CV death, and a composite of all CV end points.

RESULTS

An MPI of 0.5 or more was associated with larger infarct size and reduced LV systolic function at baseline; other baseline characteristics between the groups were similar. A total of 64 (28.3%) patients experienced CV events. Baseline MPI did not influence ventricular remodeling and did not modify the relationship between ventricular dilatation and CV events. After covariate adjustment, an MPI of 0.50 or higher remained an independent predictor for adverse CV events (hazard ratio [HR], 2.00, 95% confidence interval 1.17-3.43).

CONCLUSIONS

An MPI of 0.50 or greater is an independent predictor for CV events after MI in patients with known LV dysfunction.

Serological evidence of altered collagen homeostasis reflects early ventricular remodeling following acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Infarct expansion characterises early ventricular remodeling following myocardial infarction (AMI) and is a product of the balance between collagen degradation and synthesis. Serological markers of collagen turnover may help in predicting those at risk of remodeling. C-propeptide for type-I collagen (PICP) and C-telopeptide for type-I collagen (CITP) are markers of collagen synthesis and degradation, respectively.

METHODS

Fifty-one patients with AMI were recruited and dichotomised by echocardiographic wall motion index (WMI). Sequential measurements of plasma PICP and CITP were correlated to this and other echocardiographic variables of remodeling.

RESULTS

Twenty-three normal WMI, 28 abnormal WMI. Both groups showed increases in PICP and CITP over time. However, mean admission CITP higher in abnormal WMI group, 4.5 vs. 3.1 ng/ml (p<0.05) as was peak, 6.3 vs. 4.8 ng/ml (p<0.05). Conversely, admission PICP was lower in abnormal WMI group 114 vs. 143 ng/ml (p<0.05). Admission CITP correlated with WMI, r=0.53, p<0.001. CITP>3.2 ng/ml (normal mean+2S.D.) had 74% positive predictive value for abnormal WMI, negative predictive value 65%. Admission CITP negatively correlated with mitral deceleration time (Dt), r=-0.38, p=0.01. CITP>3.2 was associated with lower Dt-183 vs. 221 ms, p<0.05.

CONCLUSION

There is serological evidence of sequential increases in both collagen synthesis and degradation following AMI. However, the balance between these differs in patients who undergo remodeling, manifested by abnormal WMI and reduced Dt, compared to those with no evidence. They have relatively increased degradation and reduced synthesis, favouring net collagen breakdown. These changes occur early with evidence of increased breakdown on admission predicting early remodeling and support the role of serological markers to identify patients at risk of this.

Left ventricular remodeling and heart failure in diabetic patients treated with primary angioplasty for acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus has been recognized as a strong predictor of heart failure (HF) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, considerable controversy exists regarding the pathogenetic mechanisms of HF after AMI in diabetic patients. We hypothesized that the increased incidence of HF in diabetic patients was associated with a greater propensity for left ventricular (LV) remodeling.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A series of 325 patients (42 diabetics) with AMI successfully treated with primary angioplasty underwent serial 2D echocardiography from admission to 1 and 6 months and 6-month angiography. No significant difference was found between diabetics and nondiabetics regarding baseline clinical, angiographic, and echocardiographic characteristics, as well as 6-month restenosis and reocclusion rates. At 6 months, a similar incidence of LV remodeling was observed in diabetics and nondiabetics (33% versus 25%; P=0.234), with similar patterns of changes in LV volumes and LV global and regional systolic function. At 5 years, the incidence of HF was higher in the diabetics (43% versus 20%, P=0.001). Diabetes was found to be an independent predictor of HF at 5 years (hazard ratio, 1.8; P=0.0366). However, LV remodeling was predictive of HF in the nondiabetics (P=0.023) but not in the diabetics (P=0.123). In a subgroup of patients, higher LV chamber stiffness (as assessed by echocardiography) was detected in the diabetics with HF.

CONCLUSIONS

The more frequent progression to HF in the diabetics after AMI is not explained by a greater propensity for LV remodeling. Other factors, such as diastolic dysfunction, may play a role.

Hyperbaric oxygen treatment does not affect left ventricular chamber stiffness after myocardial infarction treated with thrombolysis

BACKGROUND

It has been shown that transient increase in left ventricular stiffness, assessed by Doppler-derived early filling deceleration time, occurs during the first 24 to 48 hours after myocardial infarction but returns to normal within several days. It has been reported that hyperbaric oxygen treatment has a favorable effect on left ventricular systolic function in patients with acute myocardial infarction treated with thrombolysis. However, there are no data on the effects of hyperbaric oxygen on diastolic function after myocardial infarction.

METHODS

To assess acute and short-term effects of hyperbaric oxygen on left ventricular chamber stiffness, we studied 74 consecutive patients with first acute myocardial infarction who were randomly assigned to treatment with hyperbaric oxygen combined with streptokinase or streptokinase alone. After thrombolysis, patients in the hyperbaric oxygen group received 100% oxygen at 2 atm for 60 minutes in a hyperbaric chamber. All patients underwent 2-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography 1 (after thrombolysis), 2, 3, 7, 21, and 42 days after myocardial infarction.

RESULTS

Patient characteristics, including age, sex, risk factors, adjunctive postinfarction therapy, infarct location, and baseline left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction, were similar between groups (P >.05 for all). For both groups, deceleration time decreased nonsignificantly from day 1 to day 3 and increased on day 7 (P <.001, for both groups), increasing nonsignificantly subsequently. The E/A ratio increased in the entire study group throughout the time of study (P <.001, for both groups). The pattern of changes of deceleration time was similar in both groups (P >.05 by analysis of variance), as was in subgroups determined by early reperfusion success.

CONCLUSIONS

These data in a small clinical trial do not support a benefit of hyperbaric oxygen on left ventricular diastolic filling in patients with acute myocardial infarction treated with thrombolysis.

Doppler-derived mitral deceleration time as a strong prognostic marker of left ventricular remodeling and survival after acute myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVES

The goal of this study was to assess the impact of left ventricular (LV) diastolic filling on remodeling and survival after acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

BACKGROUND

Little is known regarding the link between LV filling, its changes over time, and six-month remodeling and late survival in uncomplicated AMI.

METHODS

Doppler mitral profile, end-diastolic volume index (EDVi) and end-systolic volume index (ESVi), ejection fraction (EF), and wall motion abnormalities (%WMA) were evaluated in 571 patients from the GISSI-3 Echo substudy at baseline, pre-discharge, and six months after AMI. Patients with baseline early mitral deceleration time (DT) 130 ms were assigned to the restrictive group (n = 147), and those with DT >130 ms to the nonrestrictive group (n = 424).

RESULTS

Restrictive group patients had greater baseline ESVi and %WMA and lower EF than nonrestrictive group, and six-month greater LV dilation (EDVi, ESVi: p < 0.001 for EDVi and ESVi), smaller decrease in %WMA decrease (p < 0.01), and larger EF impairment (p < 0.008). Among the restrictive group, patients (n = 56) with pre-discharge persistent restrictive filling (n = 56) showed six-month greater LV enlargement (p < 0.001) and EF impairment (p < 0.009) than those (n = 91) with reversible restrictive filling. Baseline %WMA and EDVi, together with pre-discharge persistent restrictive filling, predicted severe (>20%) LV dilation. Four-year survival was 93% in nonrestrictive patients versus 88% in the restrictive group (p < 0.06), and 93% in pre-discharge reversible restrictive versus 79% in persistent restrictive (p < 0.0003). The single best predictor of mortality, by Cox analysis, was pre-discharge persistent restrictive filling (chi-square 14.88).

CONCLUSIONS

Left ventricular dilation may occur even after uncomplicated AMI and may be paralleled by an improvement in LV filling. However, a baseline restrictive filling that persists at pre-discharge identifies more compromised patients at higher risk for six-month remodeling and four-year mortality.

Pharmacological prevention of reperfusion injury in acute myocardial infarction. A potential role for adenosine as a therapeutic agent

The concept of reperfusion injury, although first recognized from animal studies, is now recognized as a clinical phenomenon that may result in microvascular damage, no-reflow phenomenon, myocardial stunning, myocardial hibernation and ischemic preconditioning. The final consequence of this event is left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction leading to increased morbidity and mortality. The typical clinical case of reperfusion injury occurs in acute myocardial infarction (MI) with ST segment elevation in which an occlusion of a major epicardial coronary artery is followed by recanalization of the artery. This may occur either spontaneously or by means of thrombolysis and/or by primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with efficient platelet inhibition by aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), clopidogrel and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors. Although the pathophysiology of reperfusion injury is complex, the major role that neutrophils play in this process is well known. Neutrophils generate free radicals, degranulation products, arachidonic acid metabolites and platelet-activating factors that interact with endothelial cells, inducing endothelial injury and neutralization of nitrous oxide vasodilator capacity. Adenosine, through its multi-targeted pharmacological actions, is able to inhibit some of the above-mentioned detrimental effects. The net protective of adenosine in in vivo models of reperfusion injury is the reduction of the infarct size, the improvement of the regional myocardial blood flow and of the regional function of the ischemic area. Additionally, adenosine preserves the post-ischemic coronary flow reserve, coronary blood flow and the post-ischemic regional contractility. In small-scale studies in patients with acute MI, treatment with adenosine has been associated with smaller infarcts, less no-reflow phenomenon and improved LV function. During elective PCI adenosine reduced ST segment shifts, lactate production and ischemic symptoms. During the last years, three relatively large placebo-controlled clinical trials have been conducted: Acute Myocardial Infarction Study of Adenosine Trial (AMISTAD) I and II and Attenuation by Adenosine of Cardiac Complications (ATTACC). In the AMISTAD trials, the final infarct size was reduced and the LV systolic function was improved by adenosine treatment, mainly in patients with anterior MI localization. However, morbidity and mortality were not affected. In the ATTACC study, the LV systolic function was not affected by adenosine, however, trends towards improved survival were observed in patients with anterior MI localization. The possibility of obtaining a Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) grade 3 flow in the infarct-related artery in up to 95% of patients with acute MI (increasing the occurrence of reperfusion injury) has turned back the interest towards the protection of myocardial cells from the impending ischemic and reperfusion injury in which adenosine alone or together with other cardio-protective agents may exert important clinical effects.

Impact of early changes in left ventricular filling pattern on long-term outcome after acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

In patients with heart failure due to chronic ischemic heart disease improvement of diastolic function indicates improved survival and a reduced morbidity, but whether this is also the case after acute myocardial infarction is not known.

METHODS

To assess the prognostic importance of changes in left ventricular filling pattern, assessed with mitral deceleration time and colour M-mode flow propagation velocity, on cardiac death and readmission due to heart failure serial Doppler echocardiography was carried out in 103 patients with a first myocardial infarction. Based on echocardiography on hospital admission and after 1 month, patients were divided into three groups: group A (n=29) comprised patients with normal filling at either examination, group B (n=29) comprised patients with improvement of initially abnormal filling, and group C (n=45) patients with deterioration or no change of an abnormal filling pattern.

RESULTS

One-year survival free of cardiac death or hospitalisation for heart failure was 97% in group A, 86% in group B and 64% in group C (P<0.0001). In Cox analysis persistence of abnormal filling or deterioration of left ventricular filling was still a predictor of the combined endpoint (risk ratio 4.4, 95% CI 1.8-12.0, P=0.003) after adjustment of LV filling on admission, left ventricular systolic function and clinical variables. Serial analyses of left ventricular systolic function demonstrated a significant improvement after 1 year in ejection fraction in groups A and B, whereas ejection fraction remained unchanged in group C.

CONCLUSION

Patients with a persistently abnormal or a deterioration of left ventricular filling pattern as opposed to improved or normal filling are at increased risk of cardiac death and readmission due to heart failure after acute myocardial infarction.

Short early filling deceleration time on day 1 after acute myocardial infarction is associated with short and long term left ventricular remodelling

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relations between early filling deceleration time, left ventricular remodelling, and cardiac mortality in an unselected group of postinfarction patients.

DESIGN AND PATIENTS

Prospective evaluation of 131 consecutive patients with first acute myocardial infarction. Echocardiography was performed on day 1, day 2, day 3, day 7, at three and six weeks, and at three, six, and 12 months after infarction. According to deceleration time on day 1, patients were divided into groups with short (< 150 ms) and normal deceleration time (⩾ 150 ms).

SETTING

Tertiary care centre.

RESULTS

Patients with a short deceleration time had higher end systolic and end diastolic volume indices and a higher wall motion score index, but a lower ejection fraction, in the year after infarction. These patients also showed a significant increase in end diastolic (p < 0.001) and end systolic volume indices (p = 0.007) during the follow up period, while ejection fraction and wall motion score index remained unchanged. In the group with normal deceleration time, end diastolic volume index increased (p < 0.001) but end systolic volume index did not change; in addition, the ejection fraction increased (p = 0.002) and the wall motion score index decreased (p < 0.001). One year and five year survival analysis showed greater cardiac mortality in patients with a short deceleration time (p = 0.04 and p = 0.02, respectively). In a Cox model, which included initial ejection fraction, infarct location, and infarct size, deceleration time on day 1 was the only significant predictor of five year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

A short deceleration time on day 1 after acute myocardial infarction can identify patients who are likely to undergo left ventricular remodelling in the following year. These patients have a higher one year and five year cardiac mortality.

Short early filling deceleration time on day 1 after acute myocardial infarction is associated with short and long term left ventricular remodelling

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relations between early filling deceleration time, left ventricular remodelling, and cardiac mortality in an unselected group of postinfarction patients.

DESIGN AND PATIENTS

Prospective evaluation of 131 consecutive patients with first acute myocardial infarction. Echocardiography was performed on day 1, day 2, day 3, day 7, at three and six weeks, and at three, six, and 12 months after infarction. According to deceleration time on day 1, patients were divided into groups with short (< 150 ms) and normal deceleration time (>/= 150 ms).

SETTING

Tertiary care centre.

RESULTS

Patients with a short deceleration time had higher end systolic and end diastolic volume indices and a higher wall motion score index, but a lower ejection fraction, in the year after infarction. These patients also showed a significant increase in end diastolic (p < 0.001) and end systolic volume indices (p = 0.007) during the follow up period, while ejection fraction and wall motion score index remained unchanged. In the group with normal deceleration time, end diastolic volume index increased (p < 0.001) but end systolic volume index did not change; in addition, the ejection fraction increased (p = 0.002) and the wall motion score index decreased (p < 0.001). One year and five year survival analysis showed greater cardiac mortality in patients with a short deceleration time (p = 0.04 and p = 0.02, respectively). In a Cox model, which included initial ejection fraction, infarct location, and infarct size, deceleration time on day 1 was the only significant predictor of five year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

A short deceleration time on day 1 after acute myocardial infarction can identify patients who are likely to undergo left ventricular remodelling in the following year. These patients have a higher one year and five year cardiac mortality.

Prognostic implications of restrictive left ventricular filling in reperfused anterior acute myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVES

We sought to assess the relative prognostic role of a restrictive left ventricular (LV) filling pattern after a first anterior acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients treated with primary percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA).

BACKGROUND

In thrombolized patients, a short Doppler-derived mitral deceleration time (DT) of early filling is a powerful independent predictor of heart failure and death. However, it is still unknown whether the outcome of patients with AMI with a short DT may be improved by a more aggressive treatment.

METHODS

In 104 patients, two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiograms were obtained three days after the index AMI. Coronary angiography was performed in all patients one and six months after PTCA. The patients were classified into two groups according to the DT duration: group 1 (n = 34) with DT < or = 130 ms and group 2 (n = 70) with DT >130 ms. All patients were followed-up for a mean (+/- SD) period of 32 +/- 10 months.

RESULTS

During the follow-up period, 14 patients (13%) were admitted to the hospital for congestive heart failure, and 9 patients (9%) died. All cardiac deaths (n = 7) occurred in group 1. The survival rate at mean follow-up was 79% in group 1 and 97.2% in group 2 (p = 0.003). Multivariate Cox analysis showed that only age and restrictive filling were independent predictors of event-free survival. Furthermore, when survival with no cardiovascular events was analyzed, a short DT still emerged as the most powerful independent predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with a restrictive LV filling pattern early after anterior AMI have a poor clinical outcome, even if treated with primary PTCA.

Doppler-derived mitral deceleration time as an early predictor of left ventricular thrombus after first anterior acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

The relation between left ventricular (LV) diastolic function and LV thrombus has not yet been fully investigated. The aim of this study was to determine whether early assessment of Doppler-derived mitral deceleration time (DT), a measure of LV compliance and filling, may predict LV thrombus formation after acute myocardial infarction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiographic examinations were performed in 98 consecutive patients (aged 57 +/- 12 years; 8 women) with first acute myocardial infarction. The patients were studied within 24 hours and at days 3, 7, 15, and 30 after arrival to the coronary care unit. Mitral flow velocities were obtained from the apical 4-chamber view with pulsed Doppler. LV thrombus was detected in 20 of 98 patients. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to LV thrombus formation: group 1 (n = 20) with thrombus and group 2 (n = 78) without thrombus. Mitral E-wave DT was significantly shorter in group 1 than group 2 (134 ms vs 175 ms; P <.001). Patients in group 1 had significantly larger LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes and a higher wall motion score index than patients in group 2 (133 +/- 39 mL vs 112 +/- 41 mL, P =.03; 83 +/- 34 mL vs 59 +/- 30 mL, P =.003; and 1.8 +/- 0.3 mL vs 1.5 +/- 0.3 mL, P =.007, respectively). The LV ejection fraction was significantly lower in group 1 than in group 2 (39% +/- 13% vs 48% +/- 12%; P =.004). In a multivariate regression analysis, mitral E-wave DT was identified as an independent variable related to development of LV thrombus (P =.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Doppler-derived mitral DT is superior to conventional clinical and 2-dimensional echocardiographic assessment in estimating the risk of left ventricular thrombosis after myocardial infarction.

Value of the Doppler index of myocardial performance in the early phase of acute myocardial infarction

Prospective assessment of a nongeometric Doppler-derived index of combined systolic and diastolic myocardial performance was performed in 64 patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) within 1 hour after their arrival to the hospital and in 39 age-matched healthy subjects. The index is defined as the sum of isovolumetric contraction time and relaxation time divided by ejection time, and is obtained by Doppler measurement from the mitral inflow and left ventricular outflow velocity-time intervals. The index was significantly higher in patients with MI compared with healthy subjects (P <.0001). In patients with MI and in-hospital congestive heart failure (CHF), the index was significantly higher compared with patients without CHF. In a multivariate regression analysis, the index >0.45 was the strongest independent predictor of the development of CHF. This simply obtained nongeometric Doppler index, assessed in the early phase of MI, detected and graded left ventricular dysfunction and identified patients at risk for the development of CHF.

Relationship between serum amino-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen and changes of left ventricular function after acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

The amino-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen (PIIINP) is a marker of type III collagen synthesis, which has previously been shown to correlate with infarct size in nonthrombolyzed myocardial infarction (MI) and to provide prognostic information after MI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The relationship between PIIINP and changes of left ventricular (LV) function was studied in 47 consecutive patients with first acute MI and 16 control subjects. Serum PIIINP analysis was measured daily during hospitalization and on days 90, 180, and 360. LV function was assessed by echocardiography on days 1, 5, 90, and 360. Patients with MI were stratified according to their serum PIIINP value at day 4 (group A, </=5.0 microg/L; group B, >5.0 microg/L). On arrival, LV function and size were comparable between groups A (n=31) and B (n=16). LV ejection fraction, initially depressed (day 1: group A, 47+/-7% versus group B, 47+/-8%; P=NS), increased significantly in group A (day 360: 54+/-8%, P<0.001) but was unchanged in group B (day 360: 43+/-8%, P=NS). LV volumes increased significantly in group B (P<0. 05) but not in group A. Furthermore, patients in group B developed signs of restrictive LV diastolic filling. Multivariate regression analysis identified PIIINP >5.0 microg/L and deceleration </=140 ms as independent predictors of cardiac death or complicating heart failure during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

PIIINP assessed in the subacute phase of MI relates to long-term changes of LV function and provides clinical prognostic information.

Serial changes and prognostic implications of a Doppler-derived index of combined left ventricular systolic and diastolic myocardial performance in acute myocardial infarction

The purpose of this study was to investigate the serial changes and prognostic value of a nongeometric Doppler-derived index of myocardial function that combines systolic and diastolic time intervals of the left ventricle in acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The Doppler index was measured in 60 consecutive patients with AMI and in 30 patients admitted to hospital with suspected but disproved AMI who served as controls. The patients were studied at days 1, 5, 90, and 360 after arrival in the coronary care unit. The index was defined as the sum of isovolumetric contraction time, and isovolumetric relaxation time divided by ejection time was measured from mitral inflow and left ventricular outflow Doppler velocity profiles. The index was significantly higher in patients with AMI than in control subjects at days 1 and 360 (day 1, 0.58 +/- 0.09 vs 0.41 +/- 0.08, p <0.0001; day 360, 0.50 +/- 0.09 vs 0.39 +/- 0.07, p <0.01, respectively). The index decreased significantly in patients with AMI during follow-up (p <0.01). The index was significantly higher in patients who developed congestive heart failure or died compared with survivors who were free of congestive heart failure (day 1, 0.63 +/- 0.10 vs 0.53 +/- 0.10, p <0.01; day 360, 0.56 +/- 0.08 vs 0.48 +/- 0.10, p <0.01, respectively). During 20.2 +/- 8.5 months' follow-up, 10 patients died of cardiac causes and 13 developed congestive heart failure. Univariate analyses demonstrated that the Doppler index > or =0.60 (chi-square 8.3, p <0.0001), deceleration time < or =140 ms (chi-square 8.5, p <0.0001), ejection fraction < or =0.40% (chi-square 3.3, p <0.005), anterior wall AMI (chi-square 3.2, p <0.01), and age (chi-square 1.06/ year increase, p <0.01) were significant predictors of outcome. Multivariate stepwise analysis showed that the index < or =0.60 (chi-square 3.4, p <0.05), deceleration time < or =140 ms (chi-square 4.2, p <0.02), and age (chi-square 1.06/year increase, p <0.02) were independent predictors of outcome. The Doppler index reflects severity of left ventricular function and has incremental prognostic value in patients with AMI.

Effects of long-term adrenergic beta-blockade on left ventricular diastolic filling in patients with acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular (LV) systolic and diastolic function are known to be affected in the wake of a myocardial infarction (MI). beta-Adrenergic blocking agents have demonstrated improvement of LV systolic and diastolic function in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and theoretically would have same beneficial effects in MI. beta-Adrenergic blocking agents are widely used in MI; however only few reports on changes of LV systolic and diastolic function during long-term treatment after acute MI are available.

METHODS

Two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography were used to evaluate LV diastolic filling in 77 patients randomly assigned to placebo (n = 38) or metoprolol (n = 39). The patients were randomly assigned at day 5 to 7 (baseline) after acute MI and were treated for 12 months. LV diastolic filling was assessed by pulsed Doppler measurements of transmitral and pulmonary venous flow.

RESULTS

Mitral E-wave deceleration time was prolonged in the metoprolol group (baseline vs 12 months: 167 +/- 51 ms to 218 +/- 36 ms; P =. 01) versus the placebo group (baseline vs 12 months: placebo 174 +/- 46 ms to 189 +/- 41 ms), which implies a less restrictive filling of the LV in the metoprolol group. This was supported by a decrease of E/A ratio (baseline vs 12 months: placebo, 1.06 +/- 0.40 to 0.96 +/- 0.29; metoprolol, 1.09 +/- 0.33 to 0.80 +/- 0.21; P =.05) and prolongation of the isovolumetric relaxation time in the metoprolol treated group (baseline vs 12 months: placebo, 83 +/- 19 ms to 95 +/- 20 ms; metoprolol, 82 +/- 23 ms to 117 +/- 22 ms; P =.01). The difference between mitral A wave and pulmonary venous flow reversal duration was significantly changed during follow-up (baseline vs 12 months: placebo, 22 +/- 11 ms to 24 +/- 11; metoprolol, 11 +/- 21 to 32 +/- 17 ms; P =.02). Patients with normal LV filling pattern at baseline in the metoprolol group preserved a normal LV filling pattern during the study, and patients with restrictive LV filling pattern in the metoprolol group had a nonrestrictive LV filling pattern develop. Maximal or near maximal changes of the diastolic Doppler measurements occurred by 3 months of follow-up, whereas a significant increase in LV ejection fraction was noted after 12 months treatment with metoprolol.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term treatment with the beta-blocking agent metoprolol seems to improve LV diastolic filling after acute MI. Less restrictive LV filling was noted during beta-blockade indicated by a significant prolongation of the mitral E deceleration time, which was predominantly noted in patients with restrictive LV filling. This observation might have prognostic implications because this LV filling pattern is known to be associated with poor outcome. The changes of LV diastolic filling occurred during the first 3 months, whereas systolic recovery was seen at up to 12 months of treatment.

Old and new paradigms on diastolic function in acute myocardial infarction

Although left ventricular systolic function after myocardial infarction has been the subject of detailed studies, diastolic phenomena during and after acute myocardial infarction are less well understood. The reasons for this are that catheterization studies, which are the gold standard, are not practical for serial measurements, whereas Doppler echocardiographic evaluation of diastolic function is based on the assessment of left ventricular filling only rather than on the pressure-volume relation. This article reviews invasive and noninvasive studies of diastolic function after myocardial infarction and proposes an integrated approach to the assessment of systolic and diastolic function that are simultaneously but independently impaired after myocardial infarction.

Early predictors of left ventricular remodeling after acute myocardial infarction

Ventricular remodeling after acute myocardial infarction is characterized by alteration in left ventricular (LV) size, shape, and wall thickness and involves both the infarcted and the noninfarcted regions of the ventricle. These structural changes are the result of several distinct pathologic processes that contribute to progressive LV dilation: rearrangement of wall structure, myocyte hypertrophy, and increasing muscle mass without an increase in wall thickness (eccentric hypertrophy). The pathogenesis of LV remodeling is multifactorial. Multiple factors may in fact contribute at different stages from the time of coronary occlusion until the development of ventricular dilation: These include the magnitude of the loss of contractile elements, the abrupt alteration in systolic and diastolic loading conditions, the activation of circulating neurohormones and local autocrine trophic factors, and the patency of the infarct-related artery. Although remodeling occurring early after infarction may be an appropriate compensatory response to preserve ventricular function, recent observations have suggested that this long process has a deleterious effect on LV function and prognosis. Thus attempts to inhibit these structural changes have been the focus of recent experimental and clinical studies. This review focuses on interactive factors that influence postinfarction LV remodeling, emphasizing the role of some new emerging determinants such as the extent of surviving myocardium within the infarcted and noninfarcted zones.

Longitudinal changes and prognostic implications of left ventricular diastolic function in first acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction contributes to signs and symptoms of clinical heart failure and may be related to prognosis in heart diseases. LV diastolic dysfunction is reported to be present in acute myocardial infarction (MI); however, little is known about the time course of changes in LV diastolic function and its relation to prognosis after acute MI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiographic examinations were performed in 58 consecutive patients with first acute MI. The patients were studied serially within 1 hour and at days 5, 90, and 360 after arrival to the coronary care unit. LV diastolic function was assessed by Doppler measurements of transmitral and pulmonary venous flow. On the basis of mitral inflow, patients with MI were stratified at baseline to 3 LV diastolic filling patterns: normal, impaired relaxation, or pseudonormal/restrictive. Patients with MI were observed for development of congestive heart failure (Killip class >I) during hospitalization and for death during 1-year follow-up, and these complications were related to LV diastolic function. LV diastolic dysfunction was present in the very early phase of acute MI, with signs of impaired relaxation or restrictive LV filling dynamics in 38% and 24% of the patients, respectively, whereas 38% had normal LV filling characteristics. Impaired relaxation of the LV was most pronounced and found in 60% after 1-year follow-up. In-hospital congestive heart failure (Killip class >I) was found in 50% of the patients with initial impaired LV relaxation and in 71% of the patients with initially pseudonormal or restrictive LV filling dynamics, whereas patients with normal LV filling were free of heart failure. Patients with initial impaired relaxation and restrictive LV filling dynamics demonstrated a significant LV dilation during 1-year follow-up. Patients with initial pseudonormal/restrictive LV filling pattern were more frequently readmitted to the hospital for heart failure and had significant higher New York Heart Association class score compared with patients with normal or impaired relaxation during follow-up. Cardiac death was (n = 6) only observed in patients with pseudonormal or restrictive LV filling pattern. In a multivariate stepwise regression analysis, mitral E deceleration time </=140 ms and age were identified as independent variables related to development of in-hospital congestive heart failure and cardiac death during 12 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

LV diastolic dysfunction is present in the very early phase of MI. LV remodeling and development of in-hospital congestive heart failure appear in patients with very early signs of LV diastolic dysfunction. Furthermore, mitral E deceleration time </=140 ms best identified patients at risk of development of in-hospital congestive heart failure and cardiac death after MI.

Association of Killip class on admission and left ventricular dilatation after myocardial infarction: a closer look into an old clinical classification

BACKGROUND

Early identification of patients in whom left ventricular dilatation is likely to occur may have important therapeutic implications. Thus the purpose of this study was to evaluate the relation between Killip class on admission and subsequent left ventricular dilatation after acute myocardial infarction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We serially evaluated 129 consecutive patients by two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography on days 1, 2, 3, and 7, at 3 and 6 weeks, and at 3, 6, and 12 months after infarction. Killip class on admission >1 was found in 29 of 129 (22.5%) patients, and they had significantly higher end-systolic and end-diastolic volume indexes and wall motion score index from day 1 onward compared with patients with Killip class 1, whereas ejection fraction was lower during the follow-up period in these patients. Patients with Killip class >1 showed the progressive increase of end-diastolic (68.2 +/- 2.99 to 88.0 +/- 7.55 ml/m2, p = 0.001) and end-systolic volume indexes (43.9 +/- 2.67 to 56.3 +/- 6. 18 ml/m2, p = 0.004) during the follow-up period, whereas ejection fraction and wall motion score index remained unchanged. In patients with Killip class 1, end-systolic volume index did not change (30.8 +/- 1.06 to 33.8 +/- 2.15 ml/m2, p = 0.064), ejection fraction increased (49.3% +/- 0.99% to 51.8% +/- 1.17%, p = 0.027), and wall motion score index decreased (1.50 +/- 0.03 to 1.35 +/- 0.04, p < 0. 001). End-systolic volume index was the major independent correlate of Killip class, followed by history of diabetes and peak creatine kinase level. No association was found between Doppler indexes of diastolic filling and Killip class on admission.

CONCLUSIONS

Killip class >1 on admission is associated with both acute and long-term left ventricular dilatation. On the other hand, Killip class 1 is associated with favorable left ventricular functional indices, and it appears that left ventricular function in these patients may improve over time. Initial end-systolic volume index but not ejection fraction is the major correlate of Killip class.

Doppler-derived mitral deceleration time: an early strong predictor of left ventricular remodeling after reperfused anterior acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

The relation between remodeling and left ventricular (LV) diastolic function has not yet been fully investigated. The aim of this study was to determine whether early assessment of Doppler-derived mitral deceleration time (DT), a measure of LV compliance and filling, may predict progressive LV dilation after acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Fifty-one patients (aged 61+/-11 years; 6 women) with anterior AMI successfully treated with direct coronary angioplasty underwent 2-dimensional and Doppler echocardiographic examinations within 24 hours of admission, at days 3, 7, and 30 and 6 months after the index infarction. Mitral flow velocities were obtained from the apical 4-chamber view with pulsed Doppler. End-diastolic volume index (EDVI) and end-systolic volume index (ESVI) were calculated with the Simpson's rule algorithm. Patients were divided according to the DT duration assessed at day 3 in 2 groups: group 1 (n=33) with DT >130 ms and group 2 (n=18) with DT </=130 ms. Patency and restenosis rate at 6 months were similar between the 2 groups (94% group 1 vs 89% group 2; P=0.52; 27% group 1 vs 33% group 2; P=0.64, respectively). LV volume indexes were similar in both groups at baseline (EDVI: 71+/-3 group 1 vs 70+/-3 mL/m2 group 2, P=0.42; ESVI: 43+/-3 group 1 vs 48+/-3 mL/m2 group 2, P=0.13, respectively). From day 3 on, LV volume indexes progressively increased in group 2 and were significantly larger than those of group 1 at 6 months (LVEDVI 61+/-3 group 1 vs 104+/-6 mL/m2 group 2, P=0.00001; LVESVI 31+/-3 group 1 vs 73+/-6 mL/m2 group 2, P=0.00001, respectively). A significant inverse correlation was found between DT and changes in EDVI at 6 months (r=-0.68; P<0.0000001). By stepwise multiple regression analysis among several clinical, demographic, angiographic, and echocardiographic variables, DT was the most powerful predictor of EDVI changes at 6 months (P=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that early estimation (day 3) of Doppler-derived mitral DT provides a simple and accurate mean to predict late LV dilation after reperfused AMI.

[Evolution of the filling pattern of the left ventricle during the first year after an acute myocardial infarct. The influence of the infarct size]

OBJECTIVES

Acute myocardial infarction induces diastolic dysfunction as a result of the alteration of left ventricular relaxation and stiffness caused by ischemia and fibrosis. This study analyzes the association of infarct size with the diastolic filling pattern and the evolution of the latter during the first postinfarction year.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 68 patients with a first acute myocardial infarction treated with thrombolytic agents. A Doppler echocardiography was performed at 8 +/- 2, 32 +/- 7 and 370 +/- 23 days after infarction. Five measurements of the ratio between E and A waves peak velocities (E/A ratio) and of the E deceleration time (EDT, ms) were averaged in each echocardiographic study. The patients were divided according to infarct size into a large infarct group (creatine kinase > 1,000 U/ml; 1,913 +/- 883; n = 26) and a small infarct group (creatine kinase < 1,000 U/ml; 556 +/- 227; n = 42).

RESULTS

The large infarct group exhibited a greater E/A ratio and shorter EDT than the small infarct group in the first week (E/A ratio: 1.4 +/- 0.7 vs 0.8 +/- 0.3; p = 0.0001; EDT: 159 +/- 49 vs 192 +/- 56; p = 0.02) and at one month (E/A ratio: 1.2 +/- 0.7 vs 0.9 +/- 0.3; p = 0.01; EDT: 170 +/- 55 vs 207 +/- 40; p = 0.004); however no differences were observed between either group at one year in either E/A ratio (0.8 +/- 0.2 vs 0.9 +/- 0.4; NS) or EDT (207 +/- 44 vs 219 +/- 54; NS). In the large infarct group, E/A ratio decreased and EDT increased at one year compared to the first week (E/A ratio: p = 0.0004; EDT: p = 0.0001) and the first month (E/A: p = 0.02; EDT: p = 0.003); in contrast, in the small infarct group there were no significant differences in E/A ratio nor EDT during the first year postinfarction.

CONCLUSIONS

In the first month postinfarction, large infarcts exhibit a greater E/A ratio and shorter EDT than small infarcts. The evolution of large infarcts is characterized by an attenuation of this pattern, with a progressive reduction of E/A ratio and prolongation of EDT during the first year post-infarction.

Evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function in patients with non-Q-wave myocardial infarction and its correlation with underlying coronary artery disease

Left ventricular diastolic function was studied by Doppler echocardiography in 35 patients with non-Q-wave myocardial infarction, on the third and tenth day of hospitalization and six weeks after hospitalization and was correlated with electrocardiogram, serum enzyme values, and angiographic data. Normal diastolic function on the first echocardiographic study predicted (p = 0.0001) the existence of no or single-vessel disease, and excluded (p = 0.005) the presence of 3-vessel or left main disease, whereas an abnormal study on either the second or third echocardiographic discriminated (p = 0.0001), with higher sensitivity (80.97%, 92.31%, respectively), patients with 3-vessel or left main vessel disease.