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Schaak R, Fabian Danzer M, Steinhard J, Schmitz R, Köster HA, Möllers M, Sondern K, De Santis C, Willy D, Oelmeier K. Prediction of fetal growth restriction and small for gestational age by ultrasound cardiac parameters. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 300:142-149. [PMID: 39002400 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.06.042] [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: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Prediction of fetal growth restriction (FGR) and small of gestational age (SGA) infants by using various ultrasound cardiac parameters in a logistic regression model. METHODS In this retrospective study we obtained standardized ultrasound images of 357 fetuses between the 20th and 39th week of gestation, 99 of these fetuses were between the 3rd and 10th growth percentile, 61 smaller than 3rd percentile and 197- appropriate for gestational age over the 10th percentile (control group). Several cardiac parameters were studied. The cardiothoracic ratio and sphericity of the ventricles was calculated. A binary logistic regression model was developed for prediction of growth restriction using the cardiac and biometric parameters. RESULTS There were noticeable differences between the control and study group in the sphericity of the right ventricle (p = 0.000), left and right longitudinal ventricle length (pright = 0.000, pleft = 0.000), left ventricle transverse length (p = 0.000), heart diameter (p = 0.002), heart circumference (p = 0.000), heart area (p = 0.000), and thoracic diameter limited by the ribs (p = 0.002). There was no difference of the cardiothoracic ratio between groups. The logistic regression model achieved a prediction rate of 79.4 % with a sensitivity of 74.5 % and specificity of 83.2 %. CONCLUSION The heart of growth restricted infants is characterized by a more globular right ventricle, shorter ventricle length and smaller thorax diameter. These parameters could improve prediction of FGR and SGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricarda Schaak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Muenster, Germany.
| | - Moritz Fabian Danzer
- Institute of Biostatistics and Clinical Research, University of Muenster, Germany
| | - Johannes Steinhard
- Fetal Cardiology, Center for Congenital Heart Disease, Heart and Diabetes Center North Rhine-Westphalia, Bad Oeynhausen, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Ralf Schmitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Muenster, Germany
| | - Helen A Köster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Muenster, Germany
| | - Mareike Möllers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Muenster, Germany
| | - Kathleen Sondern
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Muenster, Germany
| | - Chiara De Santis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Muenster, Germany
| | - Daniela Willy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Muenster, Germany
| | - Kathrin Oelmeier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Muenster, Germany.
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Murillo-Bravo C, Balcells-Solé J, Cobo T, Crispi Brillas F. Cardiac remodeling in patients with intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024:S0002-9378(24)00839-1. [PMID: 39151770 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Murillo-Bravo
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal I+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Judith Balcells-Solé
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal I+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Teresa Cobo
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal I+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Fàtima Crispi Brillas
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal I+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Umapathy A, Clark A, Sehgal A, Karanam V, Rajaraman G, Kalionis B, Jones H, James J, Murthi P. Molecular regulators of defective placental and cardiovascular development in fetal growth restriction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2024; 138:761-775. [PMID: 38904187 PMCID: PMC11193155 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Placental insufficiency is one of the major causes of fetal growth restriction (FGR), a significant pregnancy disorder in which the fetus fails to achieve its full growth potential in utero. As well as the acute consequences of being born too small, affected offspring are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other chronic diseases in later life. The placenta and heart develop concurrently, therefore placental maldevelopment and function in FGR may have profound effect on the growth and differentiation of many organ systems, including the heart. Hence, understanding the key molecular players that are synergistically linked in the development of the placenta and heart is critical. This review highlights the key growth factors, angiogenic molecules and transcription factors that are common causes of defective placental and cardiovascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anandita Umapathy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alys Clark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, Bioengineering Institute, New Zealand
| | - Arvind Sehgal
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia and Monash Newborn, Monash Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Vijaya Karanam
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Gayathri Rajaraman
- First year college, Victoria University, St Albans, Victoria 3021, Australia
| | - Bill Kalionis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen N. Jones
- Department of Physiology and Aging, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
- Center for Research in Perinatal Outcomes, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, U.S.A
| | - Jo James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, Bioengineering Institute, New Zealand
| | - Padma Murthi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health, University of Melbourne and Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Pharmacology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
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4
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Murillo C, Rueda C, Larroya M, Boada D, Grau L, Ponce J, Herranz A, Gómez O, Ferrero S, Andreu-Fernández V, Gratacós E, Crispi F, Palacio M, Cobo T. Intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation is associated with fetal cardiac concentric hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction in preterm labor and preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:665.e1-665.e30. [PMID: 38290925 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.10.017] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm delivery is associated with cardiovascular remodeling and dysfunction in children and adults. However, it is unknown whether these effects are caused by the neonatal consequences of preterm birth or if these are already present in utero. OBJECTIVE We evaluated fetal cardiac morphology and function in fetuses of mothers admitted for preterm labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and the association of these changes with the presence of intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation. STUDY DESIGN In this prospective cohort study, fetal echocardiography and amniocentesis were performed at admission in singleton pregnant women with preterm labor and/or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes between 24.0 and 34.0 weeks' gestation with (intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation group, n=41) and without intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation (non-intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation, n=54). Controls (n=48) were outpatient pregnant women without preterm labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Intra-amniotic infection was defined by a positive amniotic fluid culture or positive 16S ribosomal RNA gene. Intra-amniotic inflammation was defined by using the amniotic fluid interleukin-6 cutoff levels previously reported by our group being >1.43 ng/mL in preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and >13.4 ng/mL in preterm labor. Fetal cardiac morphology and function was evaluated using echocardiography, and troponin-I and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentrations were measured in amniotic fluid from women with preterm labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes and compared with 20 amniotic fluid Biobank samples obtained for reasons other than preterm labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes or cardiac pathology. The data were adjusted for the estimated fetal weight below the 10th percentile and for preterm prelabor rupture of membranes at admission and also for gestational age at amniocentesis when amniotic fluid biomarkers were compared. RESULTS From 2018 to 2021, 143 fetuses were included; 95 fetuses were from mothers admitted with a diagnosis of preterm labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes, and among those, 41 (28.7%) were in the intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation group and 54 (37.8%) were in the non-intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation group. A total of 48 (33.6%) fetuses were included in the control group. Fetuses with preterm labor and/or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes had signs of subclinical cardiac concentric hypertrophy (median left wall thickness of 0.93 [interquartile range, 0.72-1.16] in the intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation group; 0.79 [0.66-0.92] in the non-intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation group; and 0.69 [0.56-0.83] in controls; P<.001) and diastolic dysfunction (tricuspid A duration 0.23 seconds [0.21-0.25], 0.24 [0.22-0.25], and 0.21 [0.2-0.23]; P=.007). Systolic function was similar among groups. Higher values of amniotic fluid troponin I (1413 pg/mL [927-2334], 1190 [829-1636], and 841 [671-959]; P<.001) and N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide were detected (35.0%, 17%, and 0%; P=.005) in fetuses with preterm labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes when compared with the control group. The highest N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentrations were found in the intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation group. CONCLUSION Fetuses with preterm labor or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes showed signs of cardiac remodeling and subclinical dysfunction, which were more pronounced in those exposed to intra-amniotic infection and/or inflammation. These findings support that the cardiovascular effects observed in children and adults born preterm have, at least in part, a prenatal origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Murillo
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Claudia Rueda
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Larroya
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - David Boada
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laia Grau
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Júlia Ponce
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Herranz
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Gómez
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Ferrero
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vicente Andreu-Fernández
- Biosanitary Research Institute, Valencian International University (VIU), Valencia, Spain. Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Gratacós
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fàtima Crispi
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Montse Palacio
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Teresa Cobo
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, Hospital Clinic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Institut Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetrícia I Neonatología, Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain; Fundació de Recerca Clínica Barcelona - Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer (IIS-FRCB-IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain; Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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Noll ATR, Gijtenbeek M, Verweij EJTJ, Lewi L, Herling L, Haak MC. Cardiac adaptation and malformation in twin-twin transfusion syndrome and selective fetal growth restriction: A systematic review. Prenat Diagn 2024; 44:832-845. [PMID: 38643403 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic review explores cardiac adaptation in monochorionic (MC) twins with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) or selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) and assesses the risk of congenital heart defects (CHDs). METHODS Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, 63 studies were reviewed (49 on cardiac adaptation, 13 on CHD, one on both). A narrative synthesis of cardiac adaptation patterns was performed. Additionally, a meta-analysis compared the livebirth prevalence of CHD in TTTS and sFGR against uncomplicated MC twins. RESULTS In TTTS recipients, cardiac function may be impaired for diastolic, systolic, as well as global functions, while in donors, cardiac function is generally preserved. In sFGR, large twins may show hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and small twins may show impaired systolic function. Co-occurrence of TTTS and sFGR magnifies cardiac impact but is often underreported. Meta-analysis for CHD prevalence revealed a relative risk ratio of 3.5 (95% CI: 2.5-4.9) for TTTS and 2.2 (95%CI: 1.3-3.5) for sFGR compared with uncomplicated MC twins. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the well-documented cardiac adaptation in TTTS, contrasting with limited understanding in sFGR. Elevated CHD risks were observed in both conditions. Enhanced cardiovascular surveillance is warranted in complicated MC twin pregnancies. Future research should explore cardiac adaptation in sFGR and its long-term consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne T R Noll
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Center for Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Care and Delivery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Manon Gijtenbeek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - E J T Joanne Verweij
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Liesbeth Lewi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lotta Herling
- Center for Fetal Medicine, Pregnancy Care and Delivery, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Monique C Haak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Fetal Therapy, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Kühle H, Cho SKS, Charest-Pekeski AJ, Chow JSM, Lee FT, Aujla T, Saini BS, Lim JM, Darby JRT, Mroczek D, Floh AA, McVey MJ, Morrison JL, Seed M, Sun L, Haller C. Echocardiographic assessment of cardiovascular physiology of preterm miniature piglets supported with a pumped artificial placenta system. Prenat Diagn 2024; 44:888-898. [PMID: 38809178 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated fetal cardiovascular physiology and mode of cardiac failure in premature miniature piglets on a pumped artificial placenta (AP) circuit. METHODS Fetal pigs were cannulated via the umbilical vessels and transitioned to an AP circuit composed of a centrifugal pump and neonatal oxygenator and maintained in a fluid-filled biobag. Echocardiographic studies were conducted to measure ventricular function, umbilical blood flow, and fluid status. In utero scans were used as control data. RESULTS AP fetuses (n = 13; 102±4d gestational age [term 115d]; 616 ± 139 g [g]; survival 46.4 ± 46.8 h) were tachycardic and hypertensive with initially supraphysiologic circuit flows. Increased myocardial wall thickness was observed. Signs of fetal hydrops were present in all piglets. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) measurements increased in the left ventricle (LV) after transition to the circuit. Right ventricle (RV) and LV strain rate decreased early during AP support compared with in utero measurements but recovered toward the end of the experiment. Fetuses supported for >24 h had similar RV GLS to in utero controls and significantly higher GLS compared to piglets surviving only up to 24 h. CONCLUSIONS Fetuses on a pump-supported AP circuit experienced an increase in afterload, and redistribution of blood flow between the AP and systemic circulations, associated with elevated end-diastolic filling pressures. This resulted in heart failure and hydrops. These preterm fetuses were unable to tolerate the hemodynamic changes associated with connection to the current AP circuit. To better mimic the physiology of the native placenta and preserve normal fetal cardiovascular physiology, further optimization of the circuit will be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriette Kühle
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Steven K S Cho
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex J Charest-Pekeski
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica S M Chow
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fu-Tsuen Lee
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tanroop Aujla
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brahmdeep S Saini
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessie Mei Lim
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jack R T Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dariusz Mroczek
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alejandro A Floh
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark J McVey
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physics, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janna L Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Mike Seed
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Liqun Sun
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christoph Haller
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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7
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Domínguez-Gallardo C, Ginjaume-García N, Ullmo J, Parra J, Vázquez A, Cruz-Lemini M, Llurba E. Fetal Left Ventricle Function Evaluated by Two-Dimensional Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography across Clinical Stages of Severity in Growth-Restricted Fetuses. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:548. [PMID: 38473020 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14050548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) can result in adverse perinatal outcomes due to cardiac dysfunction. This study used 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography to assess left ventricle (LV) longitudinal strain across FGR severity stages. A prospective longitudinal cohort study measured global (GLS) and segmental LV longitudinal strain in FGR fetuses, with evaluations conducted at various time points. FGR was classified into subtypes based on published criteria using fetal weight centile and Doppler parameters. A linear mixed model was employed to analyze repeated measures and compare Z-score measurements between groups throughout gestational age. The study included 40 FGR fetuses and a total of 107 evaluations were performed: 21 from small for gestational age (SGA), 74 from the FGR stage I, and 12 from the FGR stage ≥ II. The results indicate that SGA and stage I FGR fetuses exhibit higher LV GLS than stages ≥ II. Throughout gestation, SGA and FGR stage I fetuses showed similar behavior with consistently better LV GLS values when compared to FGR stages ≥ II. No significant differences were observed in LV GLS strain behavior between SGA and FGR stage I. In conclusion, all FGRs show signs of early cardiac dysfunction, with severe cases demonstrating significantly a lower LV GLS when compared to mild cases, suggesting deterioration of cardiac dysfunction with progression of fetal compromise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Domínguez-Gallardo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Women and Perinatal Health Research Group, Sant Pau Biomedical Research Institute (IIB-Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Maternal and Child Health and Development Network (SAMID), RD16/0022, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Ginjaume-García
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Johana Ullmo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Women and Perinatal Health Research Group, Sant Pau Biomedical Research Institute (IIB-Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Maternal and Child Health and Development Network (SAMID), RD16/0022, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Parra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Women and Perinatal Health Research Group, Sant Pau Biomedical Research Institute (IIB-Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Maternal and Child Health and Development Network (SAMID), RD16/0022, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Vázquez
- Applied Statistics Department, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mónica Cruz-Lemini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Women and Perinatal Health Research Group, Sant Pau Biomedical Research Institute (IIB-Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Maternal and Child Health and Development Network (SAMID), RD16/0022, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Primary Care Interventions to Prevent Maternal and Child Chronic Diseases of Perinatal and Developmental Origin Network (RICORS, RD21/0012/0001), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Elisa Llurba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institut d'Investigació Biomèdica Sant Pau-IIB Sant Pau, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Women and Perinatal Health Research Group, Sant Pau Biomedical Research Institute (IIB-Sant Pau), 08025 Barcelona, Spain
- Maternal and Child Health and Development Network (SAMID), RD16/0022, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Primary Care Interventions to Prevent Maternal and Child Chronic Diseases of Perinatal and Developmental Origin Network (RICORS, RD21/0012/0001), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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8
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Gao YP, Deng YB. Ultrasound evaluation of the cardiovascular system in offspring conceived through assisted reproductive technology. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:623-634. [PMID: 38244152 PMCID: PMC10957808 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03029-5] [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: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
With the widespread application of assisted reproductive technology, the health issues of offspring conceived through assisted reproductive technology have also received increasing attention. Animal experiments and clinical studies have found subclinical adverse changes in the cardiovascular system of assisted reproductive offspring. Assisted reproductive technology itself may be just one of the many factors contributing to this phenomenon, with epigenetics playing an important role. Ultrasound technology can be used to assess the morphological structure and function of the cardiovascular system in assisted reproductive offspring from the fetal stage, providing the possibility to study the potential cardiovascular damage in this large population. This review aims to explore the effects and mechanisms of assisted reproductive technology on the cardiovascular system of offspring and provide a review of the research progress in ultrasound technology in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Peng Gao
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Tongji Medical College Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - You-Bin Deng
- Department of Medical Ultrasound, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Tongji Medical College Tongji Hospital, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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9
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Peixoto AB, Bravo-Valenzuela NJ, Martins WP, Tonni G, Moron AF, Mattar R, Ruano R, Rolo LC, Araujo Júnior E. Impact of overweight and obesity in the fetal cardiac function parameters in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Cardiol Young 2024; 34:319-324. [PMID: 37408451 DOI: 10.1017/s1047951123001609] [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] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of overweight and obesity in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy on fetal cardiac function parameters. METHODS We performed a prospective cohort study of 374 singleton pregnant women between 20w0d and 36w6d divided into three groups: 154 controls (body mass index - BMI < 25 kg/m2), 140 overweight (BMI 25-30 kg/m2) and 80 obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2). Fetal left ventricular (LV) modified myocardial performance index (Mod-MPI) was calculated according to the following formula: (isovolumetric contraction time + isovolumetric relaxation time)/ejection time. Spectral tissue Doppler was used to determine LV and right ventricular (RV) myocardial performance index (MPI'), peak myocardial velocity during systole (S'), early diastole (E'), and late diastole (A'). RESULTS We found significant differences between the groups in maternal age (p < 0.001), maternal weight (p < 0.001), BMI (p < 0.001), number of pregnancies (p < 0.001), parity (p < 0.001), gestational age (p = 0.013), and estimated fetal weight (p = 0.003). Overweight pregnant women had higher LV Mod-MPI (0.046 versus 0.044 seconds, p = 0.009) and LV MPI' (0.50 versus 0.47 seconds, p < 0.001) than the control group. Obese pregnant women had higher RV E' than control (6.82 versus 6.33 cm/sec, p = 0.008) and overweight (6.82 versus 6.46 cm/sec, p = 0.047) groups. There were no differences in 5-min APGAR score < 7, neonatal intensive care unit admission, hypoglycemia and hyperglobulinemia between the groups. CONCLUSIONS We observed fetal myocardial dysfunction in overweight and obese pregnant women with higher LV Mod-MPI, LV MPI' and RV E' compared to fetuses from normal weight pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Borges Peixoto
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Service, Mário Palmério University Hospital, University of Uberaba (UNIUBE), Uberaba-MG, Brazil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro (UFTM), Uberaba-MG, Brazil
| | - Nathalie Jeanne Bravo-Valenzuela
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology, School of Medicine, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro-RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Gabriele Tonni
- Department of Obstetrics and Neonatology, Prenatal Diagnostic Centre, Istituto di Cura e Ricovero a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), AUSL Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Antonio Fernandes Moron
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine - Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Rosiane Mattar
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine - Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Ruano
- Department of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Fetal Surgery Service, Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, Fl, USA
| | - Liliam Cristine Rolo
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine - Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo-SP, Brazil
| | - Edward Araujo Júnior
- Department of Obstetrics, Paulista School of Medicine - Federal University of São Paulo (EPM-UNIFESP), São Paulo-SP, Brazil
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10
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Murlewska J, Witkowski S, Biały Ł, Respondek-Liberska M, Słodki M, Strzelecka I. Cardiac Adaptation and Preferential Streaming in Fetuses with Multiple Nuchal Cords. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 14:77. [PMID: 38201386 PMCID: PMC10802835 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14010077] [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: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The echocardiographic monitoring of a fetus with multiple nuchal cords around the fetal neck is important as it may result in cardiac remodeling and preferential streaming, thus affecting the condition of the fetus. The main aim of our study was to assess whether the collision of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck can lead to discrepancies in the size of the pulmonary artery and the aorta in the three-vessel view and to an increase in the size of the heart, which may result from the compression of the carotid arteries caused by the umbilical cord wrapping around the fetal neck. A total number of 854 patients were included in this study and divided into three groups. Group A (control group) included 716 fetuses (84%) without the umbilical cord around the fetal neck. Group B (study group B) included 102 fetuses (12%) with one coil of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck. Group C (study group C) included 32 fetuses (4%) with two coils of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck. The range of the gestational age of the patients considered for this study was 27-40.2 weeks based on the ultrasound biometry and was not statistically different between the analyzed groups A, B and C (p > 0.05). The Pa/Ao index was calculated by dividing the value of the width of the pulmonary artery (in mm) to the width of the aorta (in mm) measured in the ultrasound three-vessel view. We found that fetuses that the fetuses with one and two coils of the umbilical cord around the neck showed significantly higher values of the width of the pulmonary trunk with the unchanged value of the aorta width. Therefore, we also observed significantly higher values of the ratio of the pulmonary trunk to the aorta for the fetuses wrapped with the umbilical cord around the neck compared with the control group without the umbilical cord around the neck (. Moreover, in the fetuses with one and two coils of the umbilical cord around the fetal neck, an increased amount of amniotic fluid was observed, whereas larger dimensions of CTAR in the fetuses with two coils of the umbilical cord around the neck were present (p < 0.05). The wrapping of the fetus with the umbilical cord around the fetal neck may induce the redistribution of blood flow, leading to fetal heart enlargement and disproportion and may be the cause of polyhydramnios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Murlewska
- Department of Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
| | - Sławomir Witkowski
- Department of Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
| | - Łucja Biały
- Department of Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
| | - Maria Respondek-Liberska
- Department of Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Diagnoses and Prevention of Fetal Malformations of Medical, University of Lodz, 90-136 Lodz, Poland
| | - Maciej Słodki
- Department of Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
- Collegium Medicum, Masovian University in Plock, 09-402 Plock, Poland
| | - Iwona Strzelecka
- Department of Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Diagnoses and Prevention of Fetal Malformations of Medical, University of Lodz, 90-136 Lodz, Poland
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11
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Boutet ML, Casals G, Valenzuela-Alcaraz B, García-Otero L, Crovetto F, Borrás A, Cívico MS, Manau D, Gratacós E, Crispi F. Subfertility versus ART: unraveling the origins of fetal cardiac programming. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:1961-1969. [PMID: 37573141 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead160] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do spontaneously conceived (SC) fetuses from subfertile couples show the same signs of cardiac remodeling as those observed after IVF treatments? SUMMARY ANSWER As opposed to fetuses from IVF, SC fetuses from subfertile couples do not show cardiac remodeling and present a similar cardiac structure and function to those of SC fetuses from fertile couples. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Subjects conceived by IVF present signs of cardiac remodeling and suboptimal function in utero and during childhood, including larger atria, more globular and thicker ventricles, reduced longitudinal motion, and impaired relaxation as compared to SC individuals from fertile couples. There are no previous publications investigating the independent cardiac programming effects of infertility in SC fetuses from subfertile couples (with time-to-pregnancy (TTP) over 12 months). STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective cohort study of 289 singleton pregnancies exposed and not exposed to subfertility recruited from 2019 to 2021, including 96 SC pregnancies from fertile couples (TTP under 12 months), 97 SC from subfertile couples (TTP over 12 months), and 96 from IVF after fresh embryo transfer. Fetal echocardiography was performed in all pregnancies. Epidemiological data and perinatal outcomes were collected in all pregnancies. The overall attrition rate was 15.7%. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS SC from subfertile couples and IVF pregnancies were identified as eligible at pregnancy diagnosis, and eligible SC pregnancies from fertile couples who attended our maternal-fetal unit were invited to participate at third trimester, being matched to the other groups by maternal age. Fetal echocardiography was performed at 29-34 weeks of pregnancy to assess cardiac structure and function, and results were adjusted by parental age, maternal smoking status, child's birth order, birthweight centile, gestational age, and estimated fetal weight at scan. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Parental age, ethnicity, BMI, and smoking exposure, median gestational age and estimated fetal weight were similar in all study groups. There were no significant differences in infertility duration or etiology between the subfertile and the IVF populations (TTP: subfertile median 35 months (interquartile range 20-48) versus IVF: 47 (25-61); P-value = 0.051). While both fertile and subfertile SC groups presented similar fetal cardiac results, IVF fetuses showed larger atria (right atria-to-heart ratio: IVF mean 18.9% (SD 3.4) versus subfertile 17.8% (3.5) versus fertile 17.6% (3.3); adjusted P-value < 0.001), more globular ventricles (right ventricular sphericity index: IVF 1.56 (0.25) versus subfertile 1.72 (0.26) versus fertile 1.72 (0.26); <0.001), and thicker myocardial walls (relative wall thickness: IVF 0.86 (0.22) versus subfertile 0.64 (0.13) versus fertile 0.64 (0.18); <0.001). Whereas SC fetuses from fertile and subfertile couples had preserved cardiac function, IVF fetuses showed signs of suboptimal systolic and diastolic function, with reduced tricuspid ring displacement (IVF 7.26 mm (1.07) versus subfertile 8.04 mm (1.18) versus fertile 7.89 mm (1.51); <0.001) and increased left myocardial performance index (IVF 0.49 (0.08) versus subfertile 0.45 (0.09) versus fertile 0.45 (0.10); <0.001). A sub-analysis including only unexplained infertility cases in subfertile SC and IVF groups showed similar results. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The fetal cardiac changes reported here are subclinical, and most of the cardiovascular parameters were within normal ranges. Although echocardiographic changes are recognized as potential cardiovascular risk factors, their association with long-term cardiovascular disease remains to be demonstrated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Subfertility per se does not seem to be associated to fetal cardiac remodeling, which has been previously described in IVF fetuses. Future studies are warranted to further investigate other factors related to the observed fetal cardiac changes associated with ART. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This project has been partially funded with support from the Erasmus + Programme of the European Union (Framework Agreement number: 2013-0040). This publication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use, which may be made of the information contained therein. Additionally, the research leading to these results has received funding from 'la Caixa' Foundation under grant agreement LCF/PR/GN18/10310003, the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (PI15/00130, PI16/00861, PI17/00675, PI18/00073, INT21/00027)-co-funded by the European Union, Cerebra Foundation for the Brain Injured Child (Carmarthen, Wales, UK) and AGAUR 2017 SGR grant no 1531. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Boutet
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Casals
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Valenzuela-Alcaraz
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - L García-Otero
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Crovetto
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Madrid, Spain
| | - A Borrás
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M S Cívico
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Manau
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona. Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Gratacós
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Madrid, Spain
| | - F Crispi
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Madrid, Spain
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12
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Freedman AA, Price E, Franklin A, Ernst LM. Measures of Fetal Growth and Cardiac Structure in Stillbirths With Placental Maternal Vascular Malperfusion: Evidence for Heart Weight Sparing and Structural Cardiac Alterations in Humans. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2023:10935266231166548. [PMID: 37082927 DOI: 10.1177/10935266231166548] [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] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Placental maternal vascular malperfusion (MVM) is associated with fetal growth restriction (FGR). While FGR increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, the impact of MVM on fetal cardiac structure is understudied. METHODS We utilized a cohort of autopsied stillbirths; 29 with MVM as the cause of death and 21 with a cause of death unrelated to MVM. Fetal and organ weights and heart measurements were standardized by gestational age and compared between MVM and non-MVM stillbirths. Differences in standardized fetal organ and cardiac measures as compared to standardized fetal body weight were calculated to account for body size. RESULTS MVM stillbirths had smaller organ and heart weights than non-MVM stillbirths; however, after accounting for gestational age, heart weight was the least affected among all organs. In an analysis of organ weights relative to body size, heart weights were 0.31 standard deviations (SD) larger than expected relative to body weight (95% CI: 0.04, 0.57). Right and left ventricle thicknesses and mitral valve circumference were also larger than expected relative to body weight. CONCLUSION Stillbirth due to MVM was associated with relative sparing of heart weight and other heart measurements. The significance of these findings in liveborn infants needs further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa A Freedman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Erica Price
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Andrew Franklin
- Department of Pediatrics, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | - Linda M Ernst
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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13
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Murlewska J, Sylwestrzak O, Strzelecka I, Respondek-Liberska M. Maternal urogenital infection and fetal heart functional assessment - what is the missing link? J Perinat Med 2023; 51:311-316. [PMID: 35947453 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0076] [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: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Maternal urogenital infections during pregnancy are worldwide frequent problem. The aim was to analyze influence of maternal genitourinary infection on fetal cardiac function, pregnancy development and obstetrical outcomes. METHODS This was a single-center cohort study on fetuses (average at 28th week) in two groups: with maternal urogenital infections (study group n=49) and control group with no infections (n=59). Parvovirus B19, toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex infections, congenital malformations, fetal growth restriction, chronic maternal diseases, as well as patients with body mass index (BMI) >25 kg/m2 were excluded. We analyzed: maternal age, time of delivery, neonatal birth weight, Apgar scores, average time of hospitalization of newborns after birth and several fetal echocardiographic parameters. RESULTS The only statistical differences was found for shorter isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT) (40 ± 10 vs. 45 ± 9; p=0.03) and longer ejection time (ET) [ms] for right ventricle (RV) (176 ± 24 vs. 164 ± 18; p=0.01). Thick placenta was observed more frequent in study group than in controls (36.7 vs. 16.9%; p= 0.02). CONCLUSIONS The missing link for explanation of these findings was coincidence with thick placenta. This is probably the first observation suggesting that thick placenta (>5 cm) may affect fetal RV function in normal heart anatomy: prolongation of right ventricular ET and shortening of fetal right ventricular IVRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Murlewska
- Department for Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital, Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
| | - Oskar Sylwestrzak
- Department for Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital, Research Institute, Lodz, Poland
| | - Iwona Strzelecka
- Department for Fetal Malformations' Diagnoses and Prevention, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
| | - Maria Respondek-Liberska
- Department for Prenatal Cardiology, Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital, Research Institute, Lodz, Poland.,Department for Fetal Malformations' Diagnoses and Prevention, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
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14
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Vasciaveo L, Zanzarelli E, D'Antonio F. Fetal cardiac function evaluation: A review. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2023; 51:215-224. [PMID: 36785505 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this review is to provide an up to date on the current use of fetal echocardiography in assessing the fetal cardiac function and its potential research and clinical applications. Despite classically is been used for prenatal diagnosis of fetal heart defects, assessment of fetal cardiac function has been recently proposed as a fundamental tool to assess pregnancies complicated by several disorders with long-term impact on post-natal cardiovascular health, such as placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction. In this review we present anatomical and functional fetal cardiac development mechanisms and an overview of the currently available techniques for evaluating fetal heart function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Vasciaveo
- Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Erika Zanzarelli
- Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Francesco D'Antonio
- Centre for High-Risk Pregnancy and Fetal Care, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chieti, Chieti, Italy
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15
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Youssef L, Castellani R, Valenzuela-Alcaraz B, Sepulveda-Martinez Á, Crovetto F, Crispi F. Cardiac remodeling from the fetus to adulthood. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2023; 51:249-264. [PMID: 36785500 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.23336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal cardiac remodeling refers to in utero changes in the fetal heart that occur as a response to an adverse intrauterine environment. In this article, we will review the main mechanisms leading to cardiac remodeling and dysfunction, summarizing and describing the major pathological conditions that have been reported to be related to this in utero plastic adaptive process. We will also recap the current evidence regarding the persistence of fetal cardiac remodeling and dysfunction, both in infancy and later in adult life. Moreover, we will discuss primary, secondary, and tertiary preventive measures and future clinical and research aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Youssef
- BCNatal|Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roberta Castellani
- BCNatal|Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Brenda Valenzuela-Alcaraz
- BCNatal|Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Álvaro Sepulveda-Martinez
- BCNatal|Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Francesca Crovetto
- BCNatal|Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Madrid, Spain
| | - Fàtima Crispi
- BCNatal|Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Madrid, Spain
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16
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Espírito-Santo DA, Cordeiro GS, Oliveira TWS, Santos LS, Silva RT, Costa CAS, Boaventura GT, Barreto-Medeiros JM. Exposure to a high-fat diet during intrauterine life and post-birth causes cardiac histomorphometric changes in rats: A systematic review. Life Sci 2022; 303:120658. [PMID: 35662554 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac histomorphometric changes are conditions present as an adaptive response to increased cardiovascular demand, such as in obesity or the consumption of a high-fat diet. Epidemiologic studies show an increase in maternal obese individuals, with repercussions on offspring cardiovascular health. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to systematically review studies that evaluated cardiac histomorphometric changes in rodents exposed to a high-fat diet. DATA SOURCE PubMed, Embase, Science Direct, Web of Science and Lilacs. DATA EXTRACTION Animal species, percentage of dietary fat, period and time of exposure and main cardiac change results were extracted. DATA ANALYSIS A total of 1687 studies were found, and 20 met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. A maternal high-fat diet was started 3 to 4 weeks before mating in most (70%) of the studies. Nutritional manipulation of offspring was initiated during pregnancy and maintained until the end of lactation in most (45%) of the studies. The fat percentage of high-fat diets ranged between 20% and 62%. The studies showed increases in cardiomyocytes, left ventricle size, and whole heart hypertrophy. Some studies showed increased thickness of the middle intima layer of the aorta and atherosclerosis. Studies that maintained a high-fat diet after the lactation period also showed an increase in cardiac hypertrophy. CONCLUSION Maternal exposure to a hyperlipidic diet in the fetal stages of cardiac development causes cardiac hypertrophy in offspring. The high variation in the dietary fat and the difference in the time and period of exposure of the offspring to the high - fat diet suggest the high degree of sensitivity of the cardiac structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djane A Espírito-Santo
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Gabriele S Cordeiro
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rafael T Silva
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Carlos A S Costa
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Recôncavo Baiano, Santo Antonio de Jesus, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gilson T Boaventura
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Jairza M Barreto-Medeiros
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
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Turgut E, Özdemir H, Turan G, Bayram M, Karcaaltincaba D. Comparison of cardiac morphology and function in small for gestational age fetuses and fetuses with late-onset fetal growth retardation. J Perinat Med 2022; 50:391-397. [PMID: 34905668 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2021-0345] [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: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To compare cardiac structural and functional findings of fetuses with fetal growth restriction (FGR) and small for gestational age (SGA). METHODS In this prospective cohort study, patients were classified into three groups using Delphi procedure according to fetal weight, umbilical, uterine artery Doppler and cerebroplacental ratio. Fetal cardiac ultrasonographic morphology and Doppler examination was performed to all pregnant women at 36 weeks of gestation. RESULTS Seventy three patients were included in the study. There were one (6.7%) patient in the control group, 2 (13.3%) in the SGA group and 12 (80%) in the FGR group who needed neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and NICU requirement was significantly higher in FGR fetuses (p<0.001). Left spherical index was found to be lower only among FGR fetuses (p=0.046). Left ventricular wall thickness was decreased and the right/left ventricular wall ratio was increased in FGR fetuses (p=0.006, p<0.001). Tricuspid/mitral valve ratio and mitral annular plane systolic excursion value was lower in FGR fetuses (p=0.034, p=0.024 respectively). Also, myocardial performance index was remarkably higher in FGR group (p=0.002). CONCLUSIONS We detected cardiac morphological changes in cases of both SGA and FGR-more pronounced in the FGR cases. Findings related to morphological changes on the left side in FGR cases were considered secondary to volume increase in FGR cases as an indicator of a brain-protective effect. In the FGR group, both systolic and diastolic dysfunctions were detected in the left heart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezgi Turgut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology, Gazi University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Halis Özdemir
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology, Gazi University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Gökçe Turan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology, Gazi University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Merih Bayram
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology, Gazi University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Deniz Karcaaltincaba
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology, Gazi University Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
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18
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Rodriguez M, Bombin M, Ahumada H, Bachmann M, Egaña-Ugrinovic G, Sepúlveda-Martínez A. Fetal cardiac dysfunction in pregnancies affected by intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: A cohort study. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:1658-1667. [PMID: 35559589 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To analyze the presence of fetal myocardial dysfunction in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) at diagnosis. METHODS This prospective cohort study included 49 pregnant participants with ICP at diagnosis and 49 nonaffected controls from a single public hospital. ICP was diagnosed based on clinical symptoms after excluding other causes of pruritus and presence of autoimmune diseases. Total bile acids were not obtained in this cohort. ICP pregnancies were assessed with a functional echocardiography at diagnosis including PR-interval, isovolumetric contraction time (ICT), ejection time (ET), and isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT) for electrical, systolic, and diastolic function, respectively. Controls were assessed at recruitment. Perinatal outcomes were obtained from delivery books. The main outcome was the presence of PR-interval prolongation or first-degree fetal heart block, and echographic signs of diastolic and systolic dysfunction. RESULTS Compared to controls, ICP were above upper limit in conjugated bilirubin (2.0% vs. 20.4%; p = 0.008), aspartate aminotransferase (2.0% vs. 24.5%; p = 0.002), and alanine aminotransferase (4.1% vs. 28.6%; p = 0.002). ICP was associated with a higher PR-interval (130 ± 12 ms vs. 121 ± 6 ms; p < 0.0001) with five first-degree fetal heart blocks. IRT was significantly higher in ICP (42 ± 6 ms vs. 37 ± 5 ms; p = 0.0001), with no differences in ICT and ET. PR-interval trend was only positively correlated with IRT in ICP pregnancies (p = 0.04 and p = 0.34, in ICP and controls, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that fetuses affected by maternal ICP are associated with electrical and diastolic myocardial dysfunction. More studies focused on antenatal and postnatal functional echocardiography are necessary to validate our results and consider these markers in the clinical management of ICP pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo Rodriguez
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Carlos Van Buren, Valparaíso, Chile.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Maritchu Bombin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Herman Ahumada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Maritza Bachmann
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Hospital Carlos Van Buren, Valparaíso, Chile
| | | | - Alvaro Sepúlveda-Martínez
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile.,Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Santiago de Chile
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Torres X, Bennasar M, Bautista-Rodríguez C, Martínez-Portilla RJ, Gómez O, Micheletti T, Eixarch E, Crispi F, Gratacós E, Martínez JM. The heart after surviving twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 227:502.e1-502.e25. [PMID: 35351412 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.03.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The persistent changes in cardiac structure and function in children who survived twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome remain a matter of concern and controversy. Current fetal echocardiographic parameters and their postnatal evolution can help improve our understanding of the subject. OBJECTIVE To describe the echocardiographic changes of monochorionic fetuses affected by twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, the recipient and the donor, before and after laser photocoagulation and to determine their evolution in the third trimester and during their first year of life. STUDY DESIGN An observational study was conducted including 55 uncomplicated monochorionic diamniotic twins and 78 pairs with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, 44 stage I-II and 34 stage III-IV, prospectively enrolled from 2015 until 2018. Comprehensive echocardiography was performed at 4 time periods: before laser photocoagulation, at 24 to 72 hours after surgery, at 28 to 30 weeks of gestation, and at 6 to 12 months after birth. Echocardiographic parameters were transformed to z-scores or indexed for heart area, estimated fetal weight, or body mass surface. RESULTS At diagnosis, recipients in all stages presented larger hearts (cardiothoracic ratio z-score: 2.77 [0.8] vs controls: -0.03 [0.5]; P<.001) and signs of ventricular hypertrophy (left end-diastolic ventricle wall thickness: 2.68 [0.7] vs controls -0.03 [0.7]; P<.001), along with systolic (cardiac index recipients: 317 [114] mL/min/kg vs controls: 400 [120] mL/min/kg, P<.001) and diastolic impairment (isovolumetric relaxation time z-score: 2.76 [0.6] vs controls: 0.05 [0.6]; P<.001). Donors presented smaller ventricular areas and diameters when compared with controls (left end-diastolic ventricle area z-score: -1.48 [1] vs 0.03 [0.9]; P<.001), along with decreased longitudinal motion (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion z-score: -0.9 [1] vs controls -0.04 [1]; P<.001) and shorter ejection time z-score (-1.5 [0.7] vs controls: 0.0 [0.7]; P<.001). After surgery, an improvement in functional parameters was observed in both fetuses, whereas most morphometric changes prevailed in donors and recipients in the prenatal period. Postnatally, cardiac remodeling persisted in recipients (left relative wall thickness: 0.34 [0.02] vs controls: 0.30 [0.02]; P<.001), whereas donors mainly presented a decreased longitudinal motion in infancy (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion z-score: -0.72 [0.7] vs controls: 0.23 [0.9]; P<.05). CONCLUSION Cardiac remodeling is present in both fetuses at the twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome diagnosis, whereas diastolic dysfunction is only significant in the recipient. Fetal therapy improves most echocardiographic parameters, although postnatally, the echocardiographic changes persist in both fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximena Torres
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Bennasar
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Carles Bautista-Rodríguez
- Paediatric Cardiology Services, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, United Kingdom; National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Raigam J Martínez-Portilla
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Gómez
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Talita Micheletti
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisenda Eixarch
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fátima Crispi
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Gratacós
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep M Martínez
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
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20
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Masiero BC, Calsa B, Oliveira CA, Moretti de Andrade TA, Esquisatto MAM, Catisti R. Morphofunctional and immunological cardiac evaluation of protein restriction on rat offspring. Ann Anat 2022; 241:151889. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2022.151889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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21
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Borna S, Khanjany S, Hantoushzade S, Khazardoost S, Mirzaeian S, Ariana S, Hashemnezhad M. Evaluation of cardiac sphericity index among intrauterine growth restriction and normal fetuses. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2021; 42:614-619. [PMID: 34472415 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2021.1945005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Foetal growth restriction (FGR) describes the pregnancy complications of pathological reduced foetal growth, leading to significant perinatal mortality and morbidity, and subsequent long-term cardiovascular outcomes. This prospective case-control study was performed on pregnant women referred to the hospitals of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in 2017-2019. All pregnant women underwent ultrasound scan and doppler sonography. FGR was defined as a sonographic estimation of foetal weight below the tenth percentile for a given gestational age. Cardiac sphericity index, including basal-apical length (BAL), transverse length (TL), global sphericity index (GSI), umbilical artery pulsatility index (PI), middle cerebral artery (MCA) PI and cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) were assessed. Mean gestational age in FGR and control groups were 233.90 ± 22.00 days and 229.00 ± 25.02 days, respectively. Foetal size index and estimated foetal weight in FGR foetuses were significantly lower than the control group (p < .05). BAL, TL and GSI were significantly affected by FGR (p = .0001, p = .018 and p = .0001, respectively). Abnormal GSI, MCA PI, umbilical artery PI and CPR were significantly more prevalent among FGR foetuses (p = .017, p = .0001, p = .0001 and p = .0001, respectively). Cardiac sphericity index, as well as uterine PI, MCA PI and CPR, were the determinants of FGR in foetuses with normal Doppler and abnormal GSI.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Foetal growth restriction (FGR) describes the foetus that does not grow to its expected biological potential in utero, and is a relatively common complication of pregnancy. FGR is accosted with negative birth outcomes and long-term cardiovascular outcomes. One of the indicators of FGR is cardiac sphericity.What do the results of this study add? The findings of this study revealed that the cardiac sphericity index as well as umbilical PI, MCA PI and CPR ratio change in FGR foetuses.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? It is recommended that more studies be performed to follow FGR foetuses longitudinally and evaluate the long-term cardiac abnormalities in infancy and childhood and compare it between FGR foetuses and normal foetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedigheh Borna
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Khanjany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sedigheh Hantoushzade
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soghra Khazardoost
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Mirzaeian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shideh Ariana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Hashemnezhad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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García-Otero L, Soveral I, Sepúlveda-Martínez Á, Rodriguez-López M, Torres X, Guirado L, Nogué L, Valenzuela-Alcaraz B, Martínez JM, Gratacós E, Gómez O, Crispi F. Reference ranges for fetal cardiac, ventricular and atrial relative size, sphericity, ventricular dominance, wall asymmetry and relative wall thickness from 18 to 41 gestational weeks. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2021; 58:388-397. [PMID: 32959925 DOI: 10.1002/uog.23127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To construct nomograms for fetal cardiac, ventricular and atrial relative size and geometry parameters from 18 to 41 weeks' gestation using a low-risk population of singleton pregnancies. METHODS This was a prospective cohort study of 602 low-risk singleton pregnancies undergoing comprehensive fetal echocardiography, from 18 to 41 weeks of gestation, to assess fetal cardiac, atrial and ventricular relative size and sphericity, ventricular dominance, wall asymmetry and relative wall thickness. Intra- and interobserver measurement reproducibility was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC). In order to construct reference ranges across pregnancy, parametric regressions were tested to model each measurement against gestational age and estimated fetal weight. The measurements evaluated were: cardiothoracic ratio; atrial-to-heart area ratios; ventricular-to-heart area ratios; cardiac, ventricular and atrial sphericity indices; right-to-left basal and midventricular ratios; septal-to-free wall thickness ratios; and relative wall thickness. RESULTS Fetal cardiac, ventricular and atrial morphometry for assessing relative size and geometry could be successfully performed in > 95% of the population, with moderate-to-excellent interobserver reproducibility (ICC, 0.623-0.907) and good-to-excellent intraobserver reproducibility (ICC, 0.787-0.938). Cardiothoracic ratio and ventricular right-to-left ratio showed a modest increase throughout gestation. Atrial-to-heart and ventricular-to-heart area ratios, atrial sphericity indices and septal-to-free wall thickness ratios were constant with gestational age. Left and right ventricular basal sphericity indices showed a tendency to decrease at the end of gestation, while left and right midventricular sphericity indices tended to decrease in the second trimester. The cardiac sphericity index and left and right relative wall thickness showed a modest decrease with gestational age. Nomograms across gestation were constructed for all echocardiographic parameters described. CONCLUSIONS The assessment of cardiac, ventricular and atrial relative size and geometry is feasible and reproducible in the fetus. We provide standardized reference ranges for these parameters throughout gestation, enabling the accurate assessment of cardiac remodeling patterns during fetal life. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- L García-Otero
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - I Soveral
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Á Sepúlveda-Martínez
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - M Rodriguez-López
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
- Pontificia Universidad Javeriana seccional Cali, Cali, Colombia
| | - X Torres
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Guirado
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - L Nogué
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Valenzuela-Alcaraz
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - J M Martínez
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Gratacós
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - O Gómez
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Crispi
- Fetal Medicine Research Center, BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
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Ortiz JU, Torres X, Bennasar M, Eixarch E, Gómez O, Crovetto F, Lobmaier SM, Martinez JM, Gratacós E, Crispi F. Left myocardial performance index in monochorionic diamniotic twin pairs complicated by selective fetal growth restriction with abnormal umbilical artery Doppler. Prenat Diagn 2021; 41:1504-1509. [PMID: 34437722 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate left myocardial performance index (MPI) and its time intervals in monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin pairs complicated by selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) with abnormal (persistent -type II- or intermittent -type III- absent or reversed end-diastolic flow) umbilical artery Doppler. METHODS Retrospective study including 16 MCDA twin pairs with sFGR type II, 26 MCDA twin pairs with sFGR type III and 42 gestational age-matched uncomplicated MCDA twin pairs in a single tertiary center. Left isovolumetric contraction time (ICT), ejection time (ET), and isovolumetric relaxation time (IRT) were measured and MPI calculated by conventional Doppler at diagnosis of sFGR. RESULTS In sFGR type II, the smaller twin had shorter ET and prolonged IRT and MPI, while the larger twin showed prolonged ICT and MPI as compared to uncomplicated MCDA twins. In sFGR type III, the smaller twin had shorter ICT and ET, while the larger twin showed prolonged ICT, IRT, and MPI in comparison to controls. CONCLUSION A differential pattern of MPI time intervals could be observed in MCDA twins with sFGR type II and III. All twins had echocardiographic signs of pressure/volume overload, except the smaller twin type III with shorter systolic times probably reflecting reduced volume load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier U Ortiz
- Division of Obstetrics and Perinatal Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Ximena Torres
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mar Bennasar
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elisenda Eixarch
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Olga Gómez
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesca Crovetto
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Silvia M Lobmaier
- Division of Obstetrics and Perinatal Medicine, University Hospital rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Josep M Martinez
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Eduard Gratacós
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fatima Crispi
- BCNatal - Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu), IDIBAPS, University of Barcelona, and Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
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24
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Geva T, Bucholz EM. Is Myocardial Fibrosis the Missing Link Between Prematurity, Cardiac Remodeling, and Long-Term Cardiovascular Outcomes? J Am Coll Cardiol 2021; 78:693-695. [PMID: 34384551 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2021.05.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tal Geva
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
| | - Emily M Bucholz
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. https://twitter.com/embucholz
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25
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Mappa I, Maqina P, Bitsadze V, Khizroeva J, Makatsarya A, Arduini D, Rizzo G. Cardiac function in fetal growth restriction. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2021; 73:423-434. [PMID: 33904691 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.21.04787-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is defined as the inability of the fetus to reach its growth potential. According to the onset of the disease is defined early (<32 weeks) or late (≥32 weeks). FGR is associated with an increased risk of adverse short- and long-term outcomes, including hypoxemic events and neurodevelopmental delay compared to normally grown fetuses and increased risk of complications in the infanthood and adulthood. The underlying cause of FGR is placental insufficiency leading to chronic fetal hypoxia that affects cardiac hemodynamic with different mechanism in early and late onset growth restriction. In early onset FGR adaptive mechanisms involve the diversion of the cardiac output preferentially in favor of the brain and the heart, while abnormal arterial and venous flow manifest in the case of further worsening of fetal hypoxia. In late FGR the fetal heart shows a remodeling of its shape and function mainly related to a reduction of umbilical vein flow. In this review we discuss the modifications occurring at the level of the fetal cardiac hemodynamic in fetuses with early and late FGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilenia Mappa
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Cristo Re Hospital, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Pavjola Maqina
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Cristo Re Hospital, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Victoria Bitsadze
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Cristo Re Hospital, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First I.M. Sechenov Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Jamilya Khizroeva
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Cristo Re Hospital, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First I.M. Sechenov Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander Makatsarya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First I.M. Sechenov Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Domenico Arduini
- Department of Developmental Medicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Rizzo
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Cristo Re Hospital, Tor Vergata University, Rome, Italy -
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First I.M. Sechenov Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
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26
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Boutet ML, Casals G, Valenzuela-Alcaraz B, García-Otero L, Crovetto F, Cívico MS, Borrás A, Manau D, Gratacós E, Crispi F. Cardiac remodeling in fetuses conceived by ARTs: fresh versus frozen embryo transfer. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2697-2708. [PMID: 34323946 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do fetuses from frozen embryo transfer (FET) present signs of cardiac remodeling and suboptimal function similar to those observed in fetuses from fresh embryo transfer (ET)? SUMMARY ANSWER Fetuses from both fresh ET and FET present signs of fetal cardiac remodeling and suboptimal function, with more pronounced changes after fresh ET as compared to FET. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Our group and others have previously demonstrated that fetuses and children conceived by ARTs present cardiac remodeling and suboptimal function. These fetuses show dilated atria, more globular and thicker ventricles, reduced longitudinal motion, and impaired relaxation. Cardiac changes were already present in utero and persisted after birth. Most of the ART fetuses included in previous publications were from fresh ET. However, singletons from FET have different perinatal outcomes compared to those from fresh ET. There are no previous studies comparing cardiac morphology and function between fetuses following fresh and FET. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a prospective cohort study of 300 singleton pregnancies recruited from 2017 to 2020, including 100 spontaneously conceived (SC) pregnancies, 100 fetuses conceived by IVF with FET, and 100 fetuses conceived by IVF with fresh ET. Fetal structural and functional echocardiography was performed in all pregnancies. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Pregnancies conceived by IVF were recruited from a single assisted reproduction center, ensuring homogeneity in IVF stimulation protocols, endometrial preparation for FET, laboratory procedures, and embryo culture conditions. SC pregnancies from fertile couples were selected from the general population and matched to IVF pregnancies by maternal age. Epidemiological and perinatal outcomes were collected in all cases. Fetal echocardiography was performed at 28-33 weeks of pregnancy to assess cardiac structure and function in all pregnancies. All echocardiographic comparisons were adjusted by maternal age, nulliparity, birthweight centile, preeclampsia, and prematurity. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Parental age, ethnicity, body mass index and smoking were similar among the study groups. Median gestational age at echocardiography and estimated fetal weight were similar in all study groups. Both fresh ET and FET groups showed similar fetal echocardiographic changes, with more pronounced features in the fresh ET as compared to FET pregnancies. Fetuses conceived by IVF showed larger atria (right atria-to-heart ratio: fresh ET mean 18.1% (SD 3.2) vs FET 18.0% (3.9) vs SC 17.3% (3.2); linear tendency P-value <0.001), more globular ventricles (right ventricular sphericity index: fresh ET 1.62 (0.29) vs FET 1.61 (0.25) vs SC 1.68 (0.26); <0.001) and thicker myocardial walls (relative wall thickness: fresh ET 0.79 (0.21) vs FET 0.74 (0.22) vs SC 0.65 (0.25); <0.001) as compared to SC pregnancies. Both fresh ET and FET groups also had signs of suboptimal systolic and diastolic function, with reduced tricuspid annular systolic peak velocity (fresh ET 7.17 cm/s (1.22) vs FET 7.41 cm/s (1.19) vs SC 7.58 cm/s (1.32); <0.001) and increased left myocardial performance index (fresh ET 0.53 (0.08) vs FET 0.53 (0.08) vs SC 0.50 (0.09); <0.001) as compared to SC pregnancies. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The cardiac changes reported here are subclinical, with most cardiovascular indexes lying within normal ranges. Although echocardiographic changes are recognized as potential cardiovascular risk factors, their association with the long-term cardiovascular disease remains to be proven. The observed milder fetal cardiac features in FET fetuses cannot condition the choice of this technique and must be considered together with the global perinatal results related to these gestations. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The identification of cardiac remodeling in fetuses conceived by IVF with fresh ET and FET represents an opportunity for early detection. Future studies are warranted to study the potential long-term consequences of these findings. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This project has been partially funded with support from the Erasmus + Programme of the European Union (Framework Agreement number: 2013-0040). This publication reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use, which may be made of the information contained therein. Additionally, the research leading to these results has received funding from 'la Caixa' Foundation under grant agreement LCF/PR/GN18/10310003, the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (PI15/00130, PI17/00675, PI18/00073) integrated into the Plan Nacional de I + D+I and cofinanced by ISCIII-Subdirección General de Evaluación and Fondo Europeo de Desarrollo Regional (FEDER) 'Una manera de hacer Europa', Cerebra Foundation for the Brain Injured Child (Carmarthen, Wales, UK) and AGAUR 2017 SGR grant n° 1531. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Boutet
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Casals
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - B Valenzuela-Alcaraz
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - L García-Otero
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Crovetto
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - M S Cívico
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Borrás
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Manau
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - E Gratacós
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
| | - F Crispi
- BCNatal | Fetal Medicine Research Center (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Centre for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Barcelona, Spain
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27
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Crispi F, Crovetto F, Rodriguez-López M, Sepúlveda-Martinez Á, Miranda J, Gratacós E. Postnatal persistence of cardiac remodeling and dysfunction in late fetal growth restriction. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2021; 73:471-481. [PMID: 33949826 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.21.04823-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction is one of the most common obstetric complications, affecting 7-10% of all pregnancies. Affected fetuses are exposed to an adverse environment in utero during a critical time of development and may face long-term health consequences such as increased cardiovascular risk in adulthood. Growth restricted fetuses develop remodeled hearts with signs of systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Cardiac adaptations are more evident in early severe cases, but also present in late onset fetal growth restriction. Cardiovascular remodeling persists into postnatal life, from the neonatal period to adolescence, encompassing an increased susceptibility to adult disease. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on cardiovascular programming associated to fetal growth restriction, its postnatal consequences and potential strategies to reduce their cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Crispi
- Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetricia y Neonatología (ICGON), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesca Crovetto
- Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetricia y Neonatología (ICGON), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain -
| | - Mérida Rodriguez-López
- Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetricia y Neonatología (ICGON), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Pontificia Universidad Javeriana seccional Cali, Cali, Colombia
| | - Álvaro Sepúlveda-Martinez
- Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetricia y Neonatología (ICGON), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Unit of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Clínico de la Universidad de Chile, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Jezid Miranda
- Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetricia y Neonatología (ICGON), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Grupo de Investigación en Cuidado Intensivo (GRICIO), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidad de Cartagena, Cartagena, Colombia
| | - Eduard Gratacós
- Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (BCNatal), Center for Biomedical Research on Rare Diseases (CIBER-ER), Instituto Clínic de Ginecología, Obstetricia y Neonatología (ICGON), Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Deu, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Weichert J, Weichert A. A "holistic" sonographic view on congenital heart disease: How automatic reconstruction using fetal intelligent navigation echocardiography eases unveiling of abnormal cardiac anatomy part II-Left heart anomalies. Echocardiography 2021; 38:777-789. [PMID: 33778977 DOI: 10.1111/echo.15037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Volume ultrasound has been shown to provide valid complementary information on fetal anatomy. Four-dimensional assessment (4D) of the fetal cardiovascular system using spatial-temporal image correlation (STIC) allows for detailed examination of a highly complex organ from the early second trimester onward. There is compelling evidence that this technique harbors quite a number of diagnostic opportunities, but manual navigation through STIC volume datasets is highly operator dependent. In fact, STIC is not incorporated yet into daily practice. Application of the novel fetal intelligent navigation echocardiography (FINE) considerably simplifies fetal cardiac volumetric examinations. This automatic technique applied on cardiac volume datasets reportedly has both high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of congenital heart defects (CHDs). Part I reviewed current data regarding detection rates of CHDs and illustrated the additional value of an automatic approach in delineating cardiac anatomy exemplified by congenital lesions of the right heart. In part II of this pictorial essay, we focused on left heart anomalies and aimed to tabulate recent findings on the quantification of normal and abnormal cardiac anatomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Weichert
- Division of Prenatal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Luebeck, Germany.,Elbe Center of Prenatal Medicine and Human Genetics, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Weichert
- Department of Obstetrics, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin - CCM, Berlin, Germany.,Prenatal Medicine Bergmannstrasse, Berlin, Germany
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29
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Ong CW, Ren M, Wiputra H, Mojumder J, Chan WX, Tulzer A, Tulzer G, Buist ML, Mattar CNZ, Lee LC, Yap CH. Biomechanics of Human Fetal Hearts with Critical Aortic Stenosis. Ann Biomed Eng 2020; 49:1364-1379. [PMID: 33175989 PMCID: PMC8058006 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-020-02683-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Critical aortic stenosis (AS) of the fetal heart causes a drastic change in the cardiac biomechanical environment. Consequently, a substantial proportion of such cases will lead to a single-ventricular birth outcome. However, the biomechanics of the disease is not well understood. To address this, we performed Finite Element (FE) modelling of the healthy fetal left ventricle (LV) based on patient-specific 4D ultrasound imaging, and simulated various disease features observed in clinical fetal AS to understand their biomechanical impact. These features included aortic stenosis, mitral regurgitation (MR) and LV hypertrophy, reduced contractility, and increased myocardial stiffness. AS was found to elevate LV pressures and myocardial stresses, and depending on severity, can drastically decrease stroke volume and myocardial strains. These effects are moderated by MR. AS alone did not lead to MR velocities above 3 m/s unless LV hypertrophy was included, suggesting that hypertrophy may be involved in clinical cases with high MR velocities. LV hypertrophy substantially elevated LV pressure, valve flow velocities and stroke volume, while reducing LV contractility resulted in diminished LV pressure, stroke volume and wall strains. Typical extent of hypertrophy during fetal AS in the clinic, however, led to excessive LV pressure and valve velocity in the FE model, suggesting that reduced contractility is typically associated with hypertrophy. Increased LV passive stiffness, which might represent fibroelastosis, was found to have minimal impact on LV pressures, stroke volume, and wall strain. This suggested that fibroelastosis could be a by-product of the disease progression and does not significantly impede cardiac function. Our study demonstrates that FE modelling is a valuable tool for elucidating the biomechanics of congenital heart disease and can calculate parameters which are difficult to measure, such as intraventricular pressure and myocardial stresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi Wei Ong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Meifeng Ren
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Hadi Wiputra
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Joy Mojumder
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, United States
| | - Wei Xuan Chan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Andreas Tulzer
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Heart Center Linz, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Gerald Tulzer
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Heart Center Linz, Kepler University Hospital, Linz, Austria
| | - Martin Lindsay Buist
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Citra Nurfarah Zaini Mattar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, National University Health System, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lik Chuan Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, United States
| | - Choon Hwai Yap
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK.
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