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Frontera A, Villella F, Cristiano E, Comi F, Latini A, Ceriotti C, Galimberti P, Zachariah D, Pinna G, Taormina A, Vlachos K, Laredo M, Sánchez-Millán PJ, Maceda DP, Bernardini A, Bologna F, Giomi A, Augello G, Botto G, Tzeis S, Mazzone P. Functional substrate in patients with atrial fibrillation is predictive of recurrences after catheter ablation. Heart Rhythm 2024:S1547-5271(24)03314-9. [PMID: 39278611 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2024.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/18/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Enhanced characterization of the atrial electrical substrate may lead to better comprehension of atrial fibrillation (AF) pathophysiology. OBJECTIVE With the use of high-density substrate mapping, we sought to investigate the occurrence of functional electrophysiologic phenomena in the left atrium and to assess potential association with arrhythmia recurrences after catheter ablation. METHODS Sixty-three consecutive patients with AF referred for ablation were enrolled. Analysis of conduction abnormalities relied on 2 acquired left atrial electroanatomic maps (sinus and atrial paced rhythm). We classified conduction abnormalities as fixed (if these were present in both rhythms) or functional rhythm dependent (if unmasked in 1 of the 2 rhythms). Esophagus and aorta locations were recorded to check the correspondence with abnormal conduction sites. RESULTS There were 234 conduction abnormalities detected, of which 125 (53.4%) were functional rhythm dependent. The most frequent anatomic site of functional phenomena was the anterior wall, followed by the posterior wall, in sinus rhythm and the pulmonary venous antra in paced rhythm. Sites of functional phenomena in 82.6% of cases corresponded with extracardiac structures, such as sinus of Valsalva of ascending aorta anteriorly and the esophagus posteriorly. Most (88%) areas with functional phenomena had normal bipolar voltage. After pulmonary vein ablation, the number of residual functional phenomena is an independent predictor of AF recurrence (hazard ratio, 2.539 [1.458-4.420]; P = .001) with a risk of recurrences at multivariable Cox analysis. CONCLUSION Dual high-density mapping (during sinus and paced rhythms) is able to unmask functional, rhythm-dependent phenomena that are predictive of AF recurrences during follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Frontera
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Department, IRCCS Cà Grande Niguarda, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Ernesto Cristiano
- Department of Electrophysiology, Humanitas Gavazzeni, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Francesca Comi
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Department, IRCCS Cà Grande Niguarda, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mikaël Laredo
- Unitè de Rhytmologie, Institut de Cardiologie, Hôpital Universitaire Pitié-Salpêtriere, AP-HP, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France
| | - Pablo J Sánchez-Millán
- Arrhythmia Unit, Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Granada, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Patrizio Mazzone
- Cardiac Arrhythmia Department, IRCCS Cà Grande Niguarda, Milan, Italy
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2
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Lim MW, Kalman JM. The impact of lifestyle factors on atrial fibrillation. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2024; 193:91-99. [PMID: 38838814 DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2024.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF), with its significant associated morbidity and mortality contributes to significant healthcare utilisation and expenditure. Given its progressively rising incidence, strategies to limit AF development and progression are urgently needed. Lifestyle modification is a potentially potent but underutilised weapon against the AF epidemic. The purpose of this article is to review the role of lifestyle factors as risk factors for AF, outline potential mechanisms of pathogenesis and examine the available evidence for lifestyle intervention in primary and secondary AF prevention. It will also highlight the need for investment by physicians, researchers, health services and governments in order to facilitate delivery of the comprehensive, multidisciplinary AF care that is required to manage this complex and multifactorial disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael W Lim
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Kalman
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia; The Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
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van Schie MS, Talib S, Knops P, Taverne YJHJ, de Groot NMS. Conduction Velocity and Anisotropic Properties of Fibrillation Waves During Acutely Induced and Long-Standing Persistent AF. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2024; 10:1592-1604. [PMID: 38752952 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2024.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Quantified features of local conduction heterogeneity due to pathological alterations of myocardial tissue could serve as a marker for the degree of electrical remodeling and hence be used to determine the stage of atrial fibrillation (AF). OBJECTIVES In this study, the authors investigated whether local directional heterogeneity (LDH) and anisotropy ratio, derived from estimated local conduction velocities (CVs) during AF, are suitable electrical parameters to stage AF. METHODS Epicardial mapping (244-electrode array, interelectrode distance 2.25 mm) of the right atrium was performed during acute atrial fibrillation (AAF) (n = 25, 32 ± 11 years of age) and during long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation (LSPAF) (n = 23, 64 ± 9 years of age). Episodes of 9 ± 4 seconds of AF were analyzed. Local CV vectors were constructed to assess the degree of anisotropy. Directions and magnitudes of individual vectors were compared with surrounding vectors to identify LDH. RESULTS Compared with the entire AAF group, LSPAF was characterized by slower conduction (71.5 ± 6.8 cm/s vs 67.6 ± 5.6 cm/s; P = 0.037) with a larger dispersion (1.59 ± 0.21 vs 1.95 ± 0.17; P < 0.001) and temporal variability (32.0 ± 4.7 cm/s vs 38.5 ± 3.3 cm/s; P < 0.001). Also, LSPAF was characterized by more LDH (19.6% ± 4.4% vs 26.0% ± 3.4%; P < 0.001) and a higher degree of anisotropy (1.38 ± 0.07 vs 1.51 ± 0.14; P < 0.001). Compared with the most complex type of AAF (type III), LSPAF was still associated with a larger CV dispersion, higher temporal variability of CV, and larger amount of LDH. CONCLUSIONS Increasing AF complexity was associated with increased spatiotemporal variability of local CV vectors, local conduction heterogeneity, and anisotropy ratio. By using these novel parameters, LSPAF could potentially be discriminated from the most complex type of AAF. These observations may indicate pathological alterations of myocardial tissue underlying progression of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathijs S van Schie
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Shmaila Talib
- Department of Cardiology, Haga Teaching Hospital, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Knops
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yannick J H J Taverne
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Natasja M S de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Microelectronics, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands.
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Wilhelm TI, Lewalter T, Reiser J, Werner J, Keil A, Oesterlein T, Gleirscher L, Tiemann K, Jilek C. Influence of Heart Rate and Change in Wavefront Direction through Pacing on Conduction Velocity and Voltage Amplitude in a Porcine Model: A High-Density Mapping Study. J Pers Med 2024; 14:473. [PMID: 38793055 PMCID: PMC11122149 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14050473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the dynamics of conduction velocity (CV) and voltage amplitude (VA) is crucial in cardiac electrophysiology, particularly for substrate-based catheter ablations targeting slow conduction zones and low voltage areas. This study utilizes ultra-high-density mapping to investigate the impact of heart rate and pacing location on changes in the wavefront direction, CV, and VA of healthy pig hearts. METHODS We conducted in vivo electrophysiological studies on four healthy juvenile pigs, involving various pacing locations and heart rates. High-resolution electroanatomic mapping was performed during intrinsic normal sinus rhythm (NSR) and electrical pacing. The study encompassed detailed analyses at three levels: entire heart cavities, subregions, and localized 5-mm-diameter circular areas. Linear mixed-effects models were used to analyze the influence of heart rate and pacing location on CV and VA in different regions. RESULTS An increase in heart rate correlated with an increase in conduction velocity and a decrease in voltage amplitude. Pacing influenced conduction velocity and voltage amplitude. Pacing also influenced conduction velocity and voltage amplitude, with varying effects observed based on the pacing location within different heart cavities. Pacing from the right atrium (RA) decreased CV in all heart cavities. The overall CV and VA changes in the whole heart cavities were not uniformly reflected in all subregions and subregional CV and VA changes were not always reflected in the overall analysis. Overall, there was a notable variability in absolute CV and VA changes attributed to pacing. CONCLUSIONS Heart rate and pacing location influence CV and VA within healthy juvenile pig hearts. Subregion analysis suggests that specific regions of the heart cavities are more susceptible to pacing. High-resolution mapping aids in detecting regional changes, emphasizing the substantial physiological variations in CV and VA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Isabelle Wilhelm
- Peter-Osypka Heart Centre Munich, Internistisches Klinikum München Süd, 81379 Munich, Germany (K.T.)
- Eye Center, Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79106 Freiburg, Germany
- Medical Graduate Center, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Thorsten Lewalter
- Peter-Osypka Heart Centre Munich, Internistisches Klinikum München Süd, 81379 Munich, Germany (K.T.)
- Department of Medicine, University of Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Judith Reiser
- Center for Preclinical Research, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany; (J.R.)
| | - Julia Werner
- Center for Preclinical Research, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany; (J.R.)
| | - Andreas Keil
- Boston Scientific Medizintechnik GmbH, 40468 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Lukas Gleirscher
- Peter-Osypka Heart Centre Munich, Internistisches Klinikum München Süd, 81379 Munich, Germany (K.T.)
| | - Klaus Tiemann
- Peter-Osypka Heart Centre Munich, Internistisches Klinikum München Süd, 81379 Munich, Germany (K.T.)
- Department of Internal Medicine I, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
| | - Clemens Jilek
- Peter-Osypka Heart Centre Munich, Internistisches Klinikum München Süd, 81379 Munich, Germany (K.T.)
- Department of Internal Medicine I, TUM School of Medicine and Health, Technical University of Munich, 81675 Munich, Germany
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Middeldorp ME, Ariyaratnam JP, Kamsani SH, Albert CM, Sanders P. Hypertension and atrial fibrillation. J Hypertens 2022; 40:2337-2352. [PMID: 36204994 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Hypertension is the most prevalent cardiovascular risk factor underlying atrial fibrillation and is present in up to 40% of patients with atrial fibrillation. Furthermore, attributable risk studies have shown that a history of hypertension contributes to up to 24% of incident atrial fibrillation. New data suggest that even early forms of hypertension (prehypertension and aortic stiffness) are associated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation development. Hypertension and prehypertension are therefore critical mediators for the development of atrial fibrillation. Mechanisms for the association between hypertension and atrial fibrillation include diffuse electro-structural changes to the left atrium, driven by the haemodynamic and neurohormonal influences of hypertension and other, frequently coexisting, cardiovascular risk factors. Management of hypertension in atrial fibrillation should focus not only on blood pressure reduction but also on a comprehensive risk factor modification strategy. Such strategies have been shown to be associated with significant improvements in atrial fibrillation symptom burden as well as improved arrhythmia-free survival and reversal of the progression of atrial fibrillation. These strategies should focus on dietary modifications as well as prescribed exercise programmes involving a multidisciplinary team and patient-centred atrial fibrillation care. Risk factor management, supplemented by antihypertensive medications as needed, provides the optimum strategy for improving outcomes and even reversing the natural progression of atrial fibrillation in patients with hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa E Middeldorp
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorder, University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center (CMA), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jonathan P Ariyaratnam
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorder, University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Suraya H Kamsani
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorder, University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Christine M Albert
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart institute, Cedars Sinai Medical Center (CMA), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorder, University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Atrial conduction velocity mapping: clinical tools, algorithms and approaches for understanding the arrhythmogenic substrate. Med Biol Eng Comput 2022; 60:2463-2478. [PMID: 35867323 PMCID: PMC9365755 DOI: 10.1007/s11517-022-02621-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Characterizing patient-specific atrial conduction properties is important for understanding arrhythmia drivers, for predicting potential arrhythmia pathways, and for personalising treatment approaches. One metric that characterizes the health of the myocardial substrate is atrial conduction velocity, which describes the speed and direction of propagation of the electrical wavefront through the myocardium. Atrial conduction velocity mapping algorithms are under continuous development in research laboratories and in industry. In this review article, we give a broad overview of different categories of currently published methods for calculating CV, and give insight into their different advantages and disadvantages overall. We classify techniques into local, global, and inverse methods, and discuss these techniques with respect to their faithfulness to the biophysics, incorporation of uncertainty quantification, and their ability to take account of the atrial manifold.
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7
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van Schie MS, de Groot NMS. Clinical Relevance of Sinus Rhythm Mapping to Quantify Electropathology Related to Atrial Fibrillation. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2022; 11:e11. [PMID: 35846426 PMCID: PMC9277615 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2022.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Progression of AF is accompanied by structural and electrical remodelling, resulting in complex electrical conduction disorders. This is defined as electropathology and it increases with the progression of AF. The severity of electropathology, thus, defines the stage of AF and is a major determinant of effectiveness of AF therapy. As specific features of AF-related electropathology are still unknown, it is essential to first quantify the electrophysiological properties of atrial tissue and then to examine the inter- and intra-individual variation during normal sinus rhythm. Comparison of these parameters between patients with and without a history of AF unravels quantified electrophysiological features that are specific to AF patients. This can help to identify patients at risk for early onset or progression of AF. This review summarises current knowledge on quantified features of atrial electrophysiological properties during sinus rhythm and discusses its relevance in identifying AF-related electropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathijs S van Schie
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Natasja MS de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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8
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Pandey A, Willis B, Barlow CE, Leonard D, Agusala V, DeFina LF, Berry JD. Mid-Life Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Obesity, and Risk of Atrial Fibrillation: The Cooper Center Longitudinal Study. JACC. ADVANCES 2022; 1:100040. [PMID: 38939318 PMCID: PMC11198193 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacadv.2022.100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Background Lower cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and higher body mass index (BMI) are associated with a higher risk of myocardial infarction and heart failure. However, the independent contribution of these lifestyle factors to the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) is less well established. Objectives The purpose of this study was to evaluation the association between midlife CRF, BMI, and risk of AF in older age. Methods This study included 18,493 participants without AF who underwent assessment of CRF (estimated using the maximal treadmill time) and BMI in middle age and had Medicare coverage after the age of 65 years. The association among midlife CRF, BMI, and risk of AF was assessed by fitting a proportional hazards intensity model to the failure time data with adjustment for potential confounders. The association between changes in CRF and BMI in middle age and the risk of AF was also assessed in the subset of participants with repeat CRF assessments. Results Among 18,493 participants (79% men), a higher midlife BMI was significantly associated with a higher risk of AF independent of CRF levels and other potential confounders (hazard ratio per 1-kg/m2: 1.05; 95% confidence interval: 1.03-1.06). Lower midlife CRF was also associated with higher risk of AF (hazard ratio per 1 MET higher CRF: 0.98; 95% confidence interval: 0.96-0.99). However, this association was attenuated and not significant after further adjustment for BMI. Change in CRF on follow-up was also not associated with the risk of AF after adjustment for other confounders. Conclusions The association between low fitness and AF was primarily driven by differences in BMI. In contrast, obesity was independently associated with excess AF risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambarish Pandey
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Research Division, The Cooper Institute, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Benjamin Willis
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Research Division, The Cooper Institute, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Carolyn E. Barlow
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Research Division, The Cooper Institute, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - David Leonard
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Research Division, The Cooper Institute, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Vijay Agusala
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Research Division, The Cooper Institute, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Laura F. DeFina
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Research Division, The Cooper Institute, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jarett D. Berry
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA; Research Division, The Cooper Institute, Dallas, Texas, USA
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Epicardial Adipose Tissue Thickness is Higher in Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Tachycardia. JOURNAL OF CARDIOVASCULAR EMERGENCIES 2021. [DOI: 10.2478/jce-2021-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias, which occur in the absence of structural heart disease, are commonly originating from the outflow tract, and 80% of the them arise from the right ventricle. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), which originates from the splanchnopleuric mesoderm, has been shown to be an important source of inflammatory mediators and plays an important role in cardiac autonomic function by epicardial ganglionated plexuses. EAT may potentially contribute to the pathophysiology of idiopathic right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) tachycardia by different mechanisms. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between EAT thickness and RVOT tachycardia. Methods: This study included 55 patients (32 male, 23 female) with RVOT tachycardia and 60 control subjects (38 male, 22 female). Patients who had more than three consecutive ventricular beats over 100 bpm with specific morphological features on the electrocardiogram (ECG) were diagnosed with RVOT tachycardia. EAT thickness was measured by transthoracic echocardiography. Results: EAT thickness was significantly higher in the RVOT tachycardia group (p <0.05). Ejection fraction (EF), and the thickness of the posterior wall of the left ventricle and of the interventricular septum were significantly lower, and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, left ventricular end-systolic diameter, and left atrial diameter were significantly higher in patients who had RVOT tachycardia compared to normal subjects (p <0.05). Conclusion: Patients who were diagnosed with RVOT tachycardia had increased EAT thickness compared to normal subjects. The underlying mechanism of the condition could be mechanical, metabolic, infiltrative, or autonomic effects of the EAT.
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10
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Kotadia I, Whitaker J, Roney C, Niederer S, O’Neill M, Bishop M, Wright M. Anisotropic Cardiac Conduction. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2020; 9:202-210. [PMID: 33437488 PMCID: PMC7788398 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2020.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Anisotropy is the property of directional dependence. In cardiac tissue, conduction velocity is anisotropic and its orientation is determined by myocyte direction. Cell shape and size, excitability, myocardial fibrosis, gap junction distribution and function are all considered to contribute to anisotropic conduction. In disease states, anisotropic conduction may be enhanced, and is implicated, in the genesis of pathological arrhythmias. The principal mechanism responsible for enhanced anisotropy in disease remains uncertain. Possible contributors include changes in cellular excitability, changes in gap junction distribution or function and cellular uncoupling through interstitial fibrosis. It has recently been demonstrated that myocyte orientation may be identified using diffusion tensor magnetic resonance imaging in explanted hearts, and multisite pacing protocols have been proposed to estimate myocyte orientation and anisotropic conduction in vivo. These tools have the potential to contribute to the understanding of the role of myocyte disarray and anisotropic conduction in arrhythmic states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irum Kotadia
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King’s College, London, UK
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - John Whitaker
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King’s College, London, UK
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Caroline Roney
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King’s College, London, UK
| | - Steven Niederer
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King’s College, London, UK
| | - Mark O’Neill
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King’s College, London, UK
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Martin Bishop
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King’s College, London, UK
| | - Matthew Wright
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King’s College, London, UK
- Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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11
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Dynamic Atrial Substrate During High-Density Mapping of Paroxysmal and Persistent AF. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2019; 5:1265-1277. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 05/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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12
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Wong CX, Ganesan AN, Selvanayagam JB. Epicardial fat and atrial fibrillation: current evidence, potential mechanisms, clinical implications, and future directions. Eur Heart J 2018; 38:1294-1302. [PMID: 26935271 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehw045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity is increasingly recognized as a major modifiable determinant of atrial fibrillation (AF). Although body mass index and other clinical measures are useful indications of general adiposity, much recent interest has focused on epicardial fat, a distinct adipose tissue depot that can be readily assessed using non-invasive imaging techniques. A growing body of data from epidemiological and clinical studies has demonstrated that epicardial fat is consistently associated with the presence, severity, and recurrence of AF across a range of clinical settings. Evidence from basic science and translational studies has also suggested that arrhythmogenic mechanisms may involve adipocyte infiltration, pro-fibrotic, and pro-inflammatory paracrine effects, oxidative stress, and other pathways. Despite these advances, however, significant uncertainty exists and many questions remain unanswered. In this article, we review our present understanding of epicardial fat, including its classification and quantification, existing evidence implicating its role in AF, potential mechanisms, implications for clinicians, and future directions for research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher X Wong
- Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Anand N Ganesan
- Department of Cardiology, Flinders Medical Centre & Flinders University, Flinders Drive, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia 5043, Australia
| | - Joseph B Selvanayagam
- Department of Cardiology, Flinders Medical Centre & Flinders University, Flinders Drive, Bedford Park, Adelaide, South Australia 5043, Australia
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13
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Iso K, Watanabe I, Kogawa R, Okumura Y, Nagashima K, Takahashi K, Watanabe R, Arai M, Ohkubo K, Nakai T, Hirayama A, Nikaido M. Wavefront direction and cycle length affect left atrial electrogram amplitude. J Arrhythm 2017; 33:269-274. [PMID: 28765756 PMCID: PMC5529329 DOI: 10.1016/j.joa.2017.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between atrial electrogram (EGM) characteristics in atrial fibrillation (AF) and those in sinus rhythm (SR) are generally unknown. The activation rate and direction may affect EGM characteristics. We examined characteristics of left atrial (LA) EGMs obtained during pacing from different sites. METHODS The study included 10 patients undergoing pulmonary vein isolation for AF. Atrial EGMs were recorded from a 64-pole basket catheter placed in the LA, and bipolar EGM amplitudes from the distal electrode pair (1-2) and proximal electrode pair (6-7) from 8 splines were averaged. The high right atrium (HRA), proximal coronary sinus (CSp), and distal coronary sinus (CSd) were paced at 600 ms and 300 ms. RESULTS When the LA voltage at SR was ≥1.5 mV, bipolar voltages of the HRA were greater than those of the CSp, which were greater than those of the CSd, regardless of the pacing cycle length. The shorter pacing cycle length resulted in a reduction of the LA EGM voltage at sites of SR voltage ≥1.5 mV, but no significant difference was seen at sites where the SR EGM amplitude was between >0.5 and <1.5 mV. No significant differences were seen in intra-basket conduction times between pacing cycle lengths of 600 ms and 300 ms at any pacing site. CONCLUSION The rate and direction-dependent reduction of the amplitude of atrial EGMs may explain, in part, the voltage discordance during SR and AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Iso
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Ichiro Watanabe
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Rikitake Kogawa
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Yasuo Okumura
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Koichi Nagashima
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Keiko Takahashi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Ryuta Watanabe
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Masaru Arai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Kimie Ohkubo
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Toshiko Nakai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
| | - Atsushi Hirayama
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Oyaguchi-kamimachi, Itabashi-ku, Tokyo 173-8610, Japan
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14
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Thanigaimani S, McLennan E, Linz D, Mahajan R, Agbaedeng TA, Lee G, Kalman JM, Sanders P, Lau DH. Progression and reversibility of stretch induced atrial remodeling: Characterization and clinical implications. PROGRESS IN BIOPHYSICS AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2017; 130:376-386. [PMID: 28734850 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbiomolbio.2017.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained arrhythmia and across the developed nations, it contributes to increasing hospitalizations and healthcare burden. Several comorbidities and risk factors including hypertension, heart failure, obstructive sleep apnoea and obesity are known to play an important role in the initiation and perpetuation of AF and atrial stretch or dilatation may play a central mechanistic role. The impact of atrial stretch in the development of AF can vary dependent on the underlying disease. This review focuses on understanding the substrate for AF in conditions of acute and chronic stretch and in the presence of common co-morbidities or risk factors through the review of findings in both animal and human studies. Additionally, the reversibility of atrial remodeling following stretch release will also be discussed. Identification of clinical conditions associated with increased atrial stretch as well as the treatment or prevention of these conditions may help to prevent AF progression and improve sinus rhythm maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivshankar Thanigaimani
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Emma McLennan
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dominik Linz
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Rajiv Mahajan
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Thomas A Agbaedeng
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Geoffrey Lee
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital and Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan M Kalman
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Melbourne Hospital and Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dennis H Lau
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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15
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Wong CX, Sun MT, Odutayo A, Emdin CA, Mahajan R, Lau DH, Pathak RK, Wong DT, Selvanayagam JB, Sanders P, Clarke R. Associations of Epicardial, Abdominal, and Overall Adiposity With Atrial Fibrillation. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2016; 9:CIRCEP.116.004378. [DOI: 10.1161/circep.116.004378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Background—
Although adiposity is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF), the importance of epicardial fat compared with other adipose tissue depots remains uncertain. We sought to characterize and compare the associations of AF with epicardial fat and measures of abdominal and overall adiposity.
Methods and Results—
We conducted a meta-analysis of 63 observational studies including 352 275 individuals, comparing AF risk for 1-SD increases in epicardial fat, waist circumference, waist/hip ratio, and body mass index. A 1-SD higher epicardial fat volume was associated with a 2.6-fold higher odds of AF (odds ratio, 2.61; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.89–3.60), 2.1-fold higher odds of paroxysmal AF (odds ratio, 2.14; 95% CI, 1.45–3.16) and, 5.4-fold higher odds of persistent AF (odds ratio, 5.43; 95% CI, 3.24–9.12) compared with sinus rhythm. Likewise, a 1-SD higher epicardial fat volume was associated with 2.2-fold higher odds of persistent compared with paroxysmal AF (odds ratio, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.66–2.88). Similar associations existed for postablation, postoperative, and postcardioversion AF. In contrast, associations of abdominal and overall adiposity with AF were less extreme, with relative risks per 1-SD higher values of 1.32 (95% CI, 1.25–1.41) for waist circumference, 1.11 (95% CI, 1.08–1.14) for waist/hip ratio, and 1.22 (95% CI, 1.17–1.27) for body mass index.
Conclusions—
Strong and graded associations were observed between increasing epicardial fat and AF. Moreover, the strength of associations of AF with epicardial fat is greater than for measures of abdominal or overall adiposity. Further studies are needed to assess the mechanisms and clinical relevance of epicardial fat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher X. Wong
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Michelle T. Sun
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Ayodele Odutayo
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Connor A. Emdin
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Rajiv Mahajan
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Dennis H. Lau
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Rajeev K. Pathak
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Dennis T. Wong
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Joseph B. Selvanayagam
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
| | - Robert Clarke
- From the Clinical Trial Service Unit and Epidemiological Studies Unit (C.X.W., R.C.), George Institute for Global Health (C.A.E.), Centre for Statistics in Medicine, Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (A.O.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom; Churchill Hospital, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (M.T.S.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada (A.O.); Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, South Australian Health
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16
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Pathak R, Lau DH, Mahajan R, Sanders P. Structural and Functional Remodeling of the Left Atrium: Clinical and Therapeutic Implications for Atrial Fibrillation. J Atr Fibrillation 2013; 6:986. [PMID: 28496919 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Revised: 12/18/2013] [Accepted: 12/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most commonly encountered arrhythmia in clinical practice. Despite advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of this complex arrhythmia, current therapeutic options remain suboptimal. This review aimed to delineate the atrial structural and functional remodeling leading to the perpetuation of AF. We explored the complex changes seen in the atria in various substrates for AF and the therapeutic options available to prevent these changes or for reverse remodeling. Here we also highlighted the emerging role of aggressive risk factor management aimed at the arrhythmogenic atrial substrate to prevent or retard AF progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajeev Pathak
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Dennis H Lau
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rajiv Mahajan
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
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17
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Wong CX, Sun MT, Cheng YH, Dang J, Barlow DS, Chia NH, Wong NX, Wong MX, Lau DH, Brooks AG, Roberts-Thomson KC, Sanders P. Temporal and comparative outcomes of cardiac electrophysiology abstracts. Am J Cardiol 2013; 112:251-4. [PMID: 23582627 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2013.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2012] [Revised: 03/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/08/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Although conferences are important vehicles for discussing scientific findings, the translation of presented research into peer-reviewed manuscripts is a crucial subsequent step in the research process. Given the evolving subspecialization of cardiology, we sought to characterize the temporal and comparative outcomes of abstracts presented at a subspecialty cardiac electrophysiology conference. Abstracts presented at the Heart Rhythm Society conference (1994 through 2006; HRS abstracts) and abstracts presented at the American Heart Association conference (2003; AHA abstracts) were studied. Subsequent publications, impact factors, and citation rates were determined. A total of 3,850 HRS and 1,000 AHA abstracts were studied. More human abstracts were presented at HRS than AHA (p <0.05). Compared with HRS abstracts, more AHA abstracts were published (p <0.001) and had higher impact factors and citation rates (p <0.001 for both). These differences were attributable in part to the greater proportion of human HRS abstracts. Compared with HRS abstracts, electrophysiology-related AHA abstracts were published less (p <0.001), and these publications had similar impact factors (p = 0.38) although greater citation rates (p = 0.001). The number and publication rate of HRS abstracts increased over the 15-year period, as did their publication impact factors and citation rates (p <0.001 for all). In conclusion, there are significant differences between AHA and HRS abstracts. Although AHA abstracts were more likely to be published overall, the publication rate and impact of electrophysiology abstracts presented at both a subspecialty (HRS) and a major cardiovascular conference (AHA) were comparable. There has also been a growth in the number and impact of cardiac electrophysiology abstracts presented at HRS in recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher X Wong
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia.
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18
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Wong CX, Mahajan R, Pathak R, J Twomey D, Sanders P. The Role of Pericardial and Epicardial Fat in Atrial Fibrillation Pathophysiology and Ablation Outcomes. J Atr Fibrillation 2013; 5:790. [PMID: 28496816 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2013] [Revised: 01/26/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that epicardial and pericardial fat are related to the presence, severity and outcome of AF. These associations, independent of generalized obesity, suggest that they may become increasingly useful as markers for risk stratification or monitoring in the clinical setting. Mechanistically, studies have suggested the effects of epicardial and pericardial fat may be mediated by local adipokines, inflammation, fatty infiltration, modulation of AF drivers and left atrial dilatation. Given the dual epidemics of AF and obesity, in the present paper we review the role that the ectopic adipose tissue surrounding the heart has in the pathogenesis of AF. Further inquiries in this active area of investigation may ultimately lead to new insights in how to best combat these interrelated epidemics and reduce the societal burden of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher X Wong
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rajiv Mahajan
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rajeev Pathak
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Darragh J Twomey
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Prashanthan Sanders
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders (CHRD), University of Adelaide and the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
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