1
|
Schembri L, Vangaveti V, Mallett A. Diagnostic utility and outcomes of inpatient investigations for syncope in a regional setting. Intern Med J 2023; 53:2208-2215. [PMID: 36645299 DOI: 10.1111/imj.16019] [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: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syncope is a common presentation to the emergency department with a wide spectrum of aetiology. The identification of the underlying cause can be diagnostically challenging, as are the choice of investigations and the decision for inpatient versus outpatient disposition. AIMS This study aimed to evaluate the aetiology of syncope as documented, the diagnostic yield of inpatient investigations and outcomes for adult patients admitted for syncope. METHODS A single-centred, retrospective cohort study was conducted in adult patients admitted for syncope within a 2-year period. A total of 386 patients were identified after exclusion. Information regarding syncope aetiology, investigations and outcomes were established via chart review of electronic records. RESULTS The most common cause of syncope was neural-mediated (43%), followed by orthostatic (36.5%) and cardiogenic (20.5%). The investigations performed in order of frequency included: telemetry electrocardiogram (ECG) (75.4%), computed tomography head non-contrast (58.8%), transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) (20.2%), computed tomography pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) (6.5%), MR brain (3.9%), electroencephalogram (1.3%) and carotid ultrasound (0.3%). Telemetry ECG, TTE and CTPA led to the diagnosis of syncope in a minority of patients only. As a result, 17.5% of patients had a new intervention on discharge, 5.4% were readmitted for syncope and 9.6% of patients died. CONCLUSIONS In the context of the inpatient evaluation of syncope, this study supports the use of telemetry ECG and TTE. Neuroimaging demonstrates a low diagnostic yield for the cause of syncope, but it may have a role to play in excluding other pathologies. Our study does not support the routine use of CTPA, EEG or carotid ultrasound in the evaluation of syncope.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Schembri
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Douglas, Queensland, Australia
- Townsville University Hospital, Douglas, Queensland, Australia
| | - Venkat Vangaveti
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Douglas, Queensland, Australia
- Townsville University Hospital, Douglas, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andrew Mallett
- College of Medicine and Dentistry, James Cook University, Douglas, Queensland, Australia
- Townsville University Hospital, Douglas, Queensland, Australia
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kulakowski P. Reflex syncope: assessment and management. Heart 2023; 109:1785-1792. [PMID: 37137676 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2022-322031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Piotr Kulakowski
- Department of Cardiology, Grochowski Hospital, Centre for Postgraduate Medical Education, Warszawa, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
da Silva AA, Moro AB, Toregeani JF. Indications for carotid Doppler ultrasound in asymptomatic patients - are we ordering it correctly? J Vasc Bras 2023; 22:e20220084. [PMID: 37576728 PMCID: PMC10421587 DOI: 10.1590/1677-5449.202200841] [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: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Carotid arteries are frequently the site of pathologies, the most common being atherosclerosis, which may result in the formation of plaques, causing stenosis. Doppler ultrasound is currently the exam of choice for assessment of the carotid arteries in asymptomatic patients to screen for and diagnose vascular lesions. Current guidelines recommend screening patients who have risk factors for carotid stenosis and who are able and willing to undergo medical treatment and/or carotid intervention. Screening asymptomatic patients in the general adult population who have no significant risk factors is not recommended. Objectives To assess whether medical experts rely on the literature to request Doppler ultrasound for screening. Methods A retrospective selection of patients was performed based on requests for carotid ultrasound. The data collected were computed and analyzed using RStudio version 1.3.959. Results The request was evaluated as appropriate as long as the patients presented at least one risk factor for carotid plaques. Fifty-five out of 152 patients met criteria for carotid screening. The most frequent indication in the study population was vascular check-up. Arterial hypertension was the most prevalent risk factor. Vascular surgery specialists were more likely to order the exam correctly (odds ratio for correct indications: 3.52 [CI 1.14 - 10.87], with p=0.02). The rate of correct Doppler ultrasound requests was 36% (95%CI 29 to 42%). Conclusions An excess of requests for carotid ultrasound screening was found in this study. Vascular surgeons more often requested the test correctly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeferson Freitas Toregeani
- Centro Universitário da Fundação Assis Gurgacz - FAG, Cascavel, PR, Brasil.
- Universidade Estadual do Oeste do Paraná - UNIOESTE, Cascavel, PR, Brasil.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Behnoush AH, Yazdani K, Khalaji A, Tavolinejad H, Aminorroaya A, Jalali A, Tajdini M. Pharmacologic prevention of recurrent vasovagal syncope: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Heart Rhythm 2023; 20:448-460. [PMID: 36509319 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a transient loss of consciousness that currently imposes a high burden on health care systems with limited evidence of the comparative efficacy of available pharmacologic interventions. This study aims to compare all pharmacologic therapies suggested in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) through systematic review and network meta-analysis. A systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library was conducted to identify RCTs evaluating pharmacologic therapies for patients with VVS. The primary outcome was spontaneous VVS recurrence. The secondary outcome was a positive head-up tilt test (HUTT) after receiving intervention, regarded as a lower level of evidence. Pooled risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using random-effect network meta-analysis. Pairwise meta-analysis for comparison with placebo was also performed when applicable. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve analysis was conducted to rank the treatments for each outcome. Twenty-eight studies with 1744 patients allocated to different medications or placebo were included. Network meta-analysis of the reduction in the primary outcome showed efficacy for midodrine (RR 0.55; 95% CI 0.35-0.85) and fluoxetine (especially in patients with concomitant anxiety) (RR 0.36; 95% CI 0.16-0.84). In addition, midodrine and atomoxetine were superior to other treatment options, considering positive HUTT (RR 0.37; 95% CI 0.23-0.59; and RR 0.49; 95% CI 0.28-0.86, respectively). Overall, midodrine was the only agent shown to reduce spontaneous syncopal events. Fluoxetine also seems to be beneficial but should be studied further in RCTs. Our network meta-analysis did not find evidence of the efficacy of any other medication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Hossein Behnoush
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kamran Yazdani
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirmohammad Khalaji
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Tavolinejad
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arya Aminorroaya
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arash Jalali
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masih Tajdini
- Tehran Heart Center, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Tonegawa-Kuji R, Inoue YY, Nakai M, Kanaoka K, Sumita Y, Miyazaki Y, Wakamiya A, Shimamoto K, Ueda N, Nakajima K, Kataoka N, Wada M, Yamagata K, Ishibashi K, Miyamoto K, Nagase S, Aiba T, Miyamoto Y, Iwanaga Y, Kusano K. Clinical Predictors of Pacing Device Implantation in Implantable Cardiac Monitor Recipients for Unexplained Syncope. CJC Open 2022; 5:259-267. [PMID: 37124961 PMCID: PMC10140738 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Implantable cardiac monitors (ICMs) help investigate the cause of unexplained syncope, but the probability and predictors of needing a pacing device thereafter remain unclear. Methods We retrospectively analyzed the data of patients who received ICM insertion for unexplained syncope with suspected arrhythmic etiology. The data were obtained from a nationwide database obtained between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2020. Multivariable mixed-effects survival analysis was performed to identify predictors of pacing device implantation (PDI), and a risk score model was developed accordingly. Results In total, 2905 patients (age: 72 years [range: 60-78]) implanted with ICMs to investigate the cause of syncope were analyzed. During the median follow-up period of 128 days (range: 68-209) days, 473 patients (16%) underwent PDI. Older age, history of atrial fibrillation, bundle branch block (BBB), and diabetes were independent predictors of PDI in multivariable analysis. A risk score model was developed with scores ranging from 0 to 32 points. When patients with the lowest quartile score (0-13 points) were used as a reference, those with higher quartiles had a higher risk of PDI (second quartile: 14-15 points, hazard ratio [HR]: 3.86, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.62-5.68; third quartile: 16-18 points, HR: 4.67, 95% CI: 3.14-6.94; fourth quartile: 19-32 points, HR: 6.59, 95% CI: 4.47-9.71). Conclusions The 4 identified predictors are easily assessed during the initial evaluation of patients with syncope. They may help identify patients with a higher risk of requiring permanent PDI.
Collapse
|
6
|
Nafissi NA, Abdulrahim JW, Kwee LC, Coniglio AC, Kraus WE, Piccini JP, Daubert JP, Sun AY, Shah SH. Prevalence and Phenotypic Burden of Monogenic Arrhythmias Using Integration of Electronic Health Records With Genetics. CIRCULATION. GENOMIC AND PRECISION MEDICINE 2022; 15:e003675. [PMID: 36136372 PMCID: PMC9588708 DOI: 10.1161/circgen.121.003675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inherited primary arrhythmia syndromes and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathies can lead to sudden cardiac arrest in otherwise healthy individuals. The burden and expression of these diseases in a real-world, well-phenotyped cardiovascular population is not well understood. METHODS Whole exome sequencing was performed on 8574 individuals from the CATHGEN cohort (Catheterization Genetics). Variants in 55 arrhythmia-related genes (associated with 8 disorders) were identified and assessed for pathogenicity based on American College of Genetics and Genomics/Association for Molecular Pathology criteria. Individuals carrying pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants were grouped by arrhythmogenic disorder and matched 1:5 to noncarrier controls based on age, sex, and genetic ancestry. Long-term phenotypic data were annotated through deep electronic health record review. RESULTS Fifty-eight P/LP variants were found in 79 individuals in 12 genes associated with 5 arrhythmogenic disorders (arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, Brugada syndrome, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, LMNA-related cardiomyopathy, and long QT syndrome). The penetrance of these P/LP variants in this cardiovascular cohort was 33%, 0%, 28%, 83%, and 4%, respectively. Carriers of P/LP variants associated with arrhythmogenic disorders showed significant differences in ECG, imaging, and clinical phenotypes compared with noncarriers, but displayed no difference in survival. Carriers of novel truncating variants in FLNC, MYBPC3, and MYH7 also developed relevant arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy phenotypes. CONCLUSIONS In a real-world cardiovascular cohort, P/LP variants in arrhythmia-related genes were relatively common (1:108 prevalence) and most penetrant in LMNA. While hypertrophic cardiomyopathy P/LP variant carriers showed significant differences in clinical outcomes compared with noncarriers, carriers of P/LP variants associated with other arrhythmogenic disorders displayed only ECG differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Navid A. Nafissi
- Division of Cardiology, Dept of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | | | - Lydia Coulter Kwee
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Amanda C. Coniglio
- Division of Cardiology, Dept of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - William E. Kraus
- Division of Cardiology, Dept of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Jonathan P. Piccini
- Division of Cardiology, Dept of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
- Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC
| | - James P. Daubert
- Division of Cardiology, Dept of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Albert Y. Sun
- Division of Cardiology, Dept of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| | - Svati H. Shah
- Division of Cardiology, Dept of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
- Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Long-Term COVID 19 Sequelae in Adolescents: the Overlap with Orthostatic Intolerance and ME/CFS. CURRENT PEDIATRICS REPORTS 2022; 10:31-44. [PMID: 35287333 PMCID: PMC8906524 DOI: 10.1007/s40124-022-00261-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review To discuss emerging understandings of adolescent long COVID or post-COVID-19 conditions, including proposed clinical definitions, common symptoms, epidemiology, overlaps with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and orthostatic intolerance, and preliminary guidance on management. Recent Findings The recent World Health Organization clinical case definition of post-COVID-19 condition requires a history of probable or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, with symptoms starting within 3 months of the onset of COVID-19. Symptoms must last for at least 2 months and cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. Common symptoms of the post-COVID-19 condition include, but are not limited to, fatigue, shortness of breath, and cognitive dysfunction. These symptoms generally have an impact on everyday functioning. The incidence of prolonged symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection has proven challenging to define, but it is now clear that those with relatively mild initial infections, without severe initial respiratory disease or end-organ injury, can still develop chronic impairments, with symptoms that overlap with conditions like ME/CFS (profound fatigue, unrefreshing sleep, post-exertional malaise, cognitive dysfunction, and orthostatic intolerance). Summary We do not yet have a clear understanding of the mechanisms by which individuals develop post-COVID-19 conditions. There may be several distinct types of long COVID that require different treatments. At this point, there is no single pharmacologic agent to effectively treat all symptoms. Because some presentations of post-COVID-19 conditions mimic disorders such as ME/CFS, treatment guidelines for this and related conditions can be helpful for managing post-COVID-19 symptoms. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40124-022-00261-4.
Collapse
|
8
|
Fedorowski A, Ricci F, Hamrefors V, Sandau KE, Chung TH, Muldowney JAS, Gopinathannair R, Olshansky B. Orthostatic Hypotension: Management of a Complex, But Common, Medical Problem. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2022; 15:e010573. [PMID: 35212554 PMCID: PMC9049902 DOI: 10.1161/circep.121.010573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Orthostatic hypotension (OH), a common, often overlooked, disorder with many causes, is associated with debilitating symptoms, falls, syncope, cognitive impairment, and risk of death. Chronic OH, a cardinal sign of autonomic dysfunction, increases with advancing age and is commonly associated with neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases, diabetes, hypertension, heart failure, and kidney failure. Management typically involves a multidisciplinary, patient-centered, approach to arrive at an appropriate underlying diagnosis that is causing OH, treating accompanying conditions, and providing individually tailored pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment. We propose a novel streamlined pathophysiological classification of OH; review the relationship between the cardiovascular disease continuum and OH; discuss OH-mediated end-organ damage; provide diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms to guide clinical decision making and patient care; identify current gaps in knowledge and try to define future research directions. Using a case-based learning approach, specific clinical scenarios are presented highlighting various presentations of OH to provide a practical guide to evaluate and manage patients who have OH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Artur Fedorowski
- Dept of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö
- Dept of Cardiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fabrizio Ricci
- Dept of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö
- Dept of Neuroscience, Imaging & Clinical Sciences, “G.d’Annunzio” University, Chieti-Pescara
- Casa di Cura Villa Serena, Città Sant’Angelo, Italy
| | - Viktor Hamrefors
- Dept of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Malmö
- Dept of Internal Medicine, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | | | - Tae Hwan Chung
- Dept of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Hockin BCD, Heeney ND, Whitehurst DGT, Claydon VE. Evaluating the Impact of Orthostatic Syncope and Presyncope on Quality of Life: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:834879. [PMID: 35224062 PMCID: PMC8866568 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.834879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Syncope (transient loss of consciousness and postural tone) and presyncope are common manifestations of autonomic dysfunction that are usually triggered by orthostasis. The global impact of syncope on quality of life (QoL) is unclear. In this systematic review, we report evidence on the impact of syncope and presyncope on QoL and QoL domains, identify key factors influencing QoL in patients with syncopal disorders, and combine available data to compare QoL between syncopal disorders and to population normative data. Methods A comprehensive literature search of academic databases (MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Embase) was conducted (February 2021) to identify peer-reviewed publications that evaluated the impact of vasovagal syncope (VVS), postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), or orthostatic hypotension (OH) on QoL. Two team members independently screened records for inclusion and extracted data relevant to the study objectives. Results From 12,258 unique records identified by the search, 36 studies met the inclusion criteria (VVS: n = 20; POTS: n = 13; VVS and POTS: n = 1; OH: n = 2); 12 distinct QoL instruments were used. Comparisons of QoL scores between patients with syncope/presyncope and a control group were performed in 16 studies; significant QoL impairments in patients with syncope/presyncope were observed in all studies. Increased syncopal event frequency, increased autonomic symptom severity, and the presence of mental health disorders and/or comorbidities were associated with lower QoL scores. Conclusion This review synthesizes the negative impact of syncope/presyncope on QoL and identifies research priorities to reduce the burden of these debilitating disorders and improve patient QoL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brooke C. D. Hockin
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair and Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Natalie D. Heeney
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair and Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David G. T. Whitehurst
- International Collaboration on Repair and Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Victoria E. Claydon
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
- International Collaboration on Repair and Discoveries (ICORD), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Victoria E. Claydon
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
van Campen C(LMC, Visser FC. Psychogenic Pseudosyncope: Real or Imaginary? Results from a Case-Control Study in Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Patients. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58010098. [PMID: 35056406 PMCID: PMC8781940 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58010098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Orthostatic intolerance (OI) is a clinical condition in which symptoms worsen upon assuming and maintaining upright posture and are ameliorated by recumbency. OI has a high prevalence in patients with myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Exact numbers on syncopal spells especially if they are on a weekly or even daily basis are not described. Although not a frequent phenomenon, this symptomatology is of very high burden to the patient if present. To explore whether patients with very frequent (pre)syncope spells diagnosed elsewhere with conversion or psychogenic pseudosyncope (PPS) might have another explanation of their fainting spells than behavioral psychiatric disorders, we performed a case-control study comparing ME/CFS patients with and without PPS spells. Methods and results: We performed a case-control study in 30 ME/CFS patients diagnosed elsewhere with PPS and compared them with 30 control ME/CFS patients without syncopal spells. Cases were gender, age and ME/CFS disease duration matched. Each underwent a tilt test with extracranial Doppler measurements for cerebral blood flow (CBF). ME/CFS cases with PPS had a significant larger CBF reduction at end tilt than controls: 39 (6)% vs. 25 (4)%; (p < 0.0001). Cases had more severe disease compared with controls (chi-square p < 0.01 and had a p = 0.01) for more postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome in cases compared with controls. PETCO2 end-tilt differed also, but the magnitude of difference was smaller than compared with the CBF reduction: there were no differences in heart rate and blood pressure at either end-tilt testing period. Compared with the test with the stockings off, the mean percentage reduction in cardiac output during the test with compression stockings on was lower, 25 (5) mmHg versus 29 (4) mmHg (p < 0.005). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that in ME/CFS patients suspected of having PPS, or conversion, CBF measurements end-tilt show a large decline compared with a control group of ME/CFS patients. Therefore, hypoperfusion offers an explanation of the orthostatic intolerance and syncopal spells in these patients, where it is clear that origin might not be behavioral or psychogenic, but have a clear somatic pathophysiologic background.
Collapse
|
11
|
Aksu T, Baysal E, Lakkireddy D, Yalin K, Gopinathannair R. Comparison of Fragmented Electrogram Based Strategy and High Frequency Stimulation for Detection of Ganglionated Plexi. J Atr Fibrillation 2021; 13:2440. [PMID: 34950325 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.2440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Ganglionated plexus (GP) ablation is an emerging technique in patients with cardioinhibitory vasovagal syncope and vagally mediated atrial fibrillation. Localization of GPs can be impacted by the technique used. A reproducible methodology for GP detection is needed to account for individual variations during electrophysiologic study. In this article, we aim to compare and contrast high-frequency stimulation vs. a fragmented electrogram guided strategy for GP localization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tolga Aksu
- University of Health Sciences, Kocaeli Derince Training and Research Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Kocaeli, Turkey
| | - Erkan Baysal
- University of Health Sciences, Gazi Yaşargil Training and Research Hospital, Department of Cardiology, Diyarbakır, Turkey
| | | | - Kivanc Yalin
- Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Thomas M, Patel KK, Peri-Okonny P, Sperry BW, McGhie AI, Badarin FA, Saeed IM, Kennedy KF, Chan P, Spertus JA, Thompson RC, Bateman TM. Stress myocardial perfusion imaging in patients presenting with syncope: Comparison of PET vs. SPECT. J Nucl Cardiol 2021; 28:2895-2906. [PMID: 32405986 PMCID: PMC7666033 DOI: 10.1007/s12350-020-02179-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD) presenting with syncope is controversial. We aimed to determine diagnostic yield of MPI for evaluation of syncope in patients without known CAD, as a function of pre-test patient risk and test modality (PET vs SPECT). METHODS Between 1/2010 and 12/2016, 1324 consecutive patients presenting with syncope without known CAD underwent MPI with PET (n = 640) or SPECT (n = 684). Rates of abnormal MPI (summed difference score (SDS) > 2 or left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) reserve ≤ 0 for PET and SDS > 2 or post-stress LVEF ≤ 45% for SPECT) were determined among patients stratified by pre-test risk. In patients who were referred for coronary angiography, diagnostic yield of obstructive CAD was calculated in the overall cohort as well as in a propensity-matched cohort compared to patients without syncope. RESULTS Abnormal MPI was noted in 36.5% (201/551) of patients who had PET compared with 13.0% (87/671) who had SPECT (P < 0.001), which is largely related to higher comorbidity burden and greater pre-test CAD risk in the PET population. Among patients who had an abnormal MPI, 8.5% (47/551) with PET and 0.7% (5/671) with SPECT were found to have obstructive CAD if referred for coronary angiography. Patients at intermediate-high pre-test risk had a higher proportion of abnormal MPIs and obstructive CAD as compared to those at low risk in both the PET and SPECT cohorts. The rate of abnormal testing and diagnostic yield of PET MPI was similar and proportionate to pre-test likelihood among matched patients with and without syncope. CONCLUSIONS Among patients referred for PET MPI with syncope at an intermediate-high pre-test CAD risk, 1 in 3 had an abnormal MPI and 1 in 10 had obstructive CAD. The value of MPI was related to pre-test risk as opposed to the presence of syncope, and MPI testing with PET or SPECT in the low-risk population was low value.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Merrill Thomas
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Krishna K Patel
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA.
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA.
| | - Poghni Peri-Okonny
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Brett W Sperry
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - A Iain McGhie
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Firas Al Badarin
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Ibrahim M Saeed
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Kevin F Kennedy
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Paul Chan
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - John A Spertus
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Randall C Thompson
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - Timothy M Bateman
- Department of Cardiology, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, USA
- Department of Cardiology, Saint Luke's Mid America Heart Institute, Kansas City, MO, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Han JK, Baykaner T, DeSimone CV, Etheridge SP, Futyma P, Saha SA, Stiles MK, Gopinathannair R, Kabra R, Merchant FM. Virtual Transformation and the Use of Social Media: Cardiac Electrophysiology Education in the Post-COVID-19 Era. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2021; 23:70. [PMID: 34690486 PMCID: PMC8523345 DOI: 10.1007/s11936-021-00948-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the delivery of education for all specialties, including cardiac electrophysiology. This review will provide an overview of the COVID-19 spurred digital transformation of electrophysiology education for practicing clinicians and trainees in electrophysiology and cover the use of social media in these educational efforts. Recent Findings Major international, national, and local meetings and electrophysiology fellowship–specific educational sessions have transitioned rapidly to virtual and distanced learning, enhanced by social media. This has allowed for participation in educational activities by electrophysiologists on a wider, more global scale. Social media has also allowed rapid dissemination of new advances, techniques, and research findings in real time and to a global audience, but caution must be exercised as pitfalls also exist. Summary The digital and social media transformation of cardiac electrophysiology education has arrived and revolutionized the way education is delivered and consumed. Continued hybrid in-person and virtual modalities will provide electrophysiologists the flexibility to choose the best option to suit their individual needs and preferences for continuing education.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janet K. Han
- Division of Cardiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles and VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, 11301 Wilshire Blvd 111E, Los Angeles, CA 90073 USA
| | - Tina Baykaner
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA USA
| | | | - Susan P. Etheridge
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, University of Utah and Primary Children’s Hospital, Salt Lake City, UT USA
| | - Piotr Futyma
- Medical College of Rzeszow University and St. Joseph’s Heart Rhythm Center, Rzeszów, Poland
| | | | - Martin K. Stiles
- Waikato Clinical School Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | | | - Rajesh Kabra
- Division of Cardiology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN USA
| | - Faisal M. Merchant
- Division of Cardiovascular Disease, Section of Cardiac Electrophysiology and Pacing, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Unexplained Syncope: The Importance of the Electrophysiology Study. HEARTS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/hearts2040038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Syncope of cardiac origin may be associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death if not treated in a timely and appropriate manner. The diagnostic approach of syncope imposes a significant economic burden on society. The investigation and elucidation of the pathogenetic mechanism of syncope are of great clinical importance, as both prognosis and appropriate therapeutic approaches depend on these factors. The responsible mechanism of presyncope or syncope can only be revealed through the patient history, baseline clinical examination and electrocardiogram. The percentage of patients who are diagnosed with these tests alone exceeds 50%. In patients with a history of organic or acquired heart disease or/and the presence of abnormal findings on the electrocardiogram, a further diagnostic electrophysiology inclusive approach should be followed to exclude life threatening arrhythmiological mechanism. However, if the patient does not suffer from underlying heart disease and does not show abnormal electrocardiographic findings in the electrocardiogram, then the probability in the electrophysiology study to find a responsible cause is small but not absent. The role of a two-step electrophysiology study inclusive risk stratification approach for the effective management of the former is thoroughly discussed in this review.
Collapse
|
15
|
Zheng W, Ze F, Yang D, Li D, Zhou X, Yuan C, Li X. Long-term outcomes of non-systematic device reimplantation following lead extraction in selected patients. MEDICINE INTERNATIONAL 2021; 1:11. [PMID: 36698430 PMCID: PMC9829079 DOI: 10.3892/mi.2021.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Following the removal of cardiovascular implantable electronic devices (CIEDs), reassessment of the need for a new device is vital. Some patients may have exhibited an improvement in rhythm or cardiac function and may thus no longer meet the guideline requirements for reimplantation. However, the long-term outcomes of non-systematic device reimplantation remain unknown. In the present study, it was hypothesized that the implantation of pacing systems in selected patients following lead extraction is safe. In order to confirm this hypothesis, a total of 854 patients (aged between 28 and 82 years) who underwent the removal of a CIED were enrolled in the present study and they were all reassessed to determine whether a new device following lead extraction was necessary. In order to determine which patients would undergo non-systematic device reimplantation, the standard guidelines, the criteria and the wishes of the patient were all taken into consideration. Patients remained device-free unless an adverse clinical event occurred that required reimplantation. The primary study endpoint was the rate of sudden death or reimplantation. Between January, 2014 and December, 2019, 854 consecutive patients underwent pacing system extraction, of whom 210 patients (24.6%) underwent non-systematic device reimplantation following careful reassessment (the non-reimplantation group). Among the 210 patients, 162 (77.1%) were fitted with pacemakers, 26 (12.4%) underwent cardiac resynchronization therapy or cardiac resynchronization therapy-defibrillator and 22 (10.5%) were implanted with a cardioverter-defibrillator. During a mean follow-up period of 40.4 months, 86 patients reached the primary endpoint of the study, including 54 out of 210 patients (25.7%) who experienced an adverse clinical event that required reimplantation and 32 out of 210 patients (15.2%) who experienced sudden death. Reimplantation of a new device was not required in ~25% of the patients. On the whole, the present study demonstrates that following pacing system removal, non-systematic device reimplantation associated with close surveillance is safe for selected patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wencheng Zheng
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Fourth Department of Cardiovascular, Tangshan Gongren Hospital, Tangshan, Hebei 063000, P.R. China
| | - Feng Ze
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Correspondence to: Dr Feng Ze, Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, 11 Xizhimen South Street, Xicheng, Beijing 100044, P.R. China
| | - Dandan Yang
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100044, P.R. China
| | - Ding Li
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100044, P.R. China
| | - Xu Zhou
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100044, P.R. China
| | - Cuizhen Yuan
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100044, P.R. China
| | - Xuebin Li
- Department of Cardiac Electrophysiology, Peking University People's Hospital, Peking University, Beijing 100044, P.R. China,Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Science, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100044, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Radovanović NN, Pavlović SU, Kirćanski B, Branković N, Vujadinović N, Sajić V, Milašinović A, Bisenić V, Živković M, Milašinović G. Diagnostic value of implantable loop recorders in patients with unexplained syncope or palpitations. Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2021; 26:e12864. [PMID: 34097780 PMCID: PMC8411757 DOI: 10.1111/anec.12864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The implantable loop recorder (ILR) is a small cardiac rhythm‐monitoring device. Our aim was to determine ILR diagnostic value in patients with unexplained syncope, presyncope, or palpitations suggesting cardiac arrhythmias. Methods This has been a retrospective, observational, single‐center study. We included 181 patients in whom ILR was implanted at the Clinical Center of Serbia between January 2006 and July 2019. An event was marked as diagnostic if it led to a diagnosis and ILR was considered diagnostic if it verified or excluded an arrhythmia as the cause of syncope or palpitations. Results The mean age was 51.8 ± 17.8 years and 94 (51.9%) were male. The mean follow‐up period was 20.2 ± 15.8 months. ILR was diagnostic in 98 patients (54.1%). There was no significant difference in diagnostic value of ILR in regard to the baseline patients’ characteristics. The mean time to occurrence of the diagnostic event was 11.1 ± 9.6 months. The time to occurrence of a diagnostic event did not differ significantly between patients who underwent basic as compared to extended diagnostics before ILR implantation. Conclusions ILR was able to achieve an etiological diagnosis in 54.1% of patients with unexplained syncope, presyncope, or palpitations suggesting cardiac arrhythmias. In a subgroup of patients with recurrent palpitations, ILR was significantly less diagnostic than in patients with syncope or presyncope. ILR should be implanted beforehand in syncope evaluation process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Siniša U Pavlović
- Pacemaker Center, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Bratislav Kirćanski
- Pacemaker Center, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | | | - Vojislav Sajić
- Pacemaker Center, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Milašinović
- Pacemaker Center, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Vesna Bisenić
- Pacemaker Center, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Goran Milašinović
- Pacemaker Center, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Debruyne P, Rossenbacker T, Janssens L, Collienne C, Ector J, Haemers P, le Polain de Waroux JB, Bazelmans C, Boussy T, Wijns W. Durable Physiological Changes and Decreased Syncope Burden 12 Months After Unifocal Right-Sided Ablation Under Computed Tomographic Guidance in Patients With Neurally Mediated Syncope or Functional Sinus Node Dysfunction. CIRCULATION. ARRHYTHMIA AND ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY 2021; 14:e009747. [PMID: 33999698 PMCID: PMC8208097 DOI: 10.1161/circep.120.009747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Debruyne
- Department of Cardiology, Imeldaziekenhuis, Bonheiden, Belgium (P.D., T.R., L.J.)
| | - Tom Rossenbacker
- Department of Cardiology, Imeldaziekenhuis, Bonheiden, Belgium (P.D., T.R., L.J.)
| | - Luc Janssens
- Department of Cardiology, Imeldaziekenhuis, Bonheiden, Belgium (P.D., T.R., L.J.)
| | - Christine Collienne
- Department of Intensive Care, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Woluwe, Belgium (C.C.)
| | - Joris Ector
- Department of Cardiology, University of Leuven, Belgium (J.E., P.H.)
| | - Peter Haemers
- Department of Cardiology, University of Leuven, Belgium (J.E., P.H.)
| | | | | | - Tim Boussy
- Department of Cardiology, AZ Groeninge, Kortrijk, Belgium (T.B.)
| | - William Wijns
- The Lambe Institute for Translational Medicine and Curam, National University of Ireland, Galway and Saolta University Healthcare Group (W.W.)
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Doundoulakis I, Gatzoulis KA, Arsenos P, Dilaveris P, Skiadas I, Tsiachris D, Antoniou C, Soulaidopoulos S, Karystinos G, Pylarinou V, Drakopoulou M, Sideris S, Vlachopoulos C, Tousoulis D. Permanent pacemaker implantation in unexplained syncope patients with borderline sinus bradycardia and electrophysiology study-proven sinus node disease. J Arrhythm 2021; 37:189-195. [PMID: 33664902 PMCID: PMC7896452 DOI: 10.1002/joa3.12460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Significant sinus bradycardia (SB) in the context of sinus node dysfunction (SND) has been associated with neurological symptoms. The objective was to evaluate the effect of permanent pacing on the incidence of syncope in patients with rather mild degrees of SB, unexplained syncope, and "positive" invasive electrophysiologic testing. METHODS This was an observational study based on a prospective registry of 122 consecutive mild SB patients (61.90 ± 18.28 years, 61.5% male, 57.88 ± 7.73 bpm) presenting with recurrent unexplained pre and syncope attacks admitted to our hospital for invasive electrophysiology study (EPS). Τhe implantation of a permanent antibradycardia pacemaker (ABP) was offered to all patients according to the results of the EPS. Eighty patients received the ABP, while 42 denied. RESULTS The mean of reported syncope episodes was 2.23 ± 1.29 (or presyncope 2.36 ± 1.20) in the last 12 months before they were referred for a combined EP guided diagnostic and therapeutic approach. Over a mean follow-up of approximately 4 years (50.39 ± 32.40 months), the primary outcome event (syncope) occurred in 18 of 122 patients (14.8%), 6 of 80 (7.5%) in the ABP group as compared to 12 of 42 (28.6%) in the no pacemaker group (P = .002). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with mild degree of SB and a history of unexplained syncope, a set of positivity criteria for the presence of EPS defined SND after differentiating reflex syncope, identifies a subset of patients who will benefit from permanent pacing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Doundoulakis
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Konstantinos A. Gatzoulis
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Petros Arsenos
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Polychronis Dilaveris
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Ioannis Skiadas
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | | | | | - Stergios Soulaidopoulos
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - George Karystinos
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Voula Pylarinou
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Maria Drakopoulou
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Skevos Sideris
- State Department of Cardiology“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Charalambos Vlachopoulos
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| | - Dimitrios Tousoulis
- First Department of CardiologyNational and Kapodistrian University“Hippokration” HospitalAthensGreece
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Tse G, Lee S, Li A, Chang D, Li G, Zhou J, Liu T, Zhang Q. Automated Electrocardiogram Analysis Identifies Novel Predictors of Ventricular Arrhythmias in Brugada Syndrome. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 7:618254. [PMID: 33521066 PMCID: PMC7840575 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2020.618254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Patients suffering from Brugada syndrome (BrS) are at an increased risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. Whilst electrocardiographic (ECG) variables have been used for risk stratification with varying degrees of success, automated measurements have not been tested for their ability to predict adverse outcomes in BrS. Methods: BrS patients presenting in a single tertiary center between 2000 and 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. ECG variables on vector magnitude, axis, amplitude and duration from all 12 leads were determined. The primary endpoint was spontaneous ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation (VT/VF) on follow-up. Results: This study included 83 patients [93% male, median presenting age: 56 (41–66) years old, 45% type 1 pattern] with 12 developing the primary endpoint (median follow-up: 75 (Q1–Q3: 26–114 months). Cox regression showed that QRS frontal axis > 70.0 degrees, QRS horizontal axis > 57.5 degrees, R-wave amplitude (lead I) <0.67 mV, R-wave duration (lead III) > 50.0 ms, S-wave amplitude (lead I) < −0.144 mV, S-wave duration (lead aVL) > 35.5 ms, QRS duration (lead V3) > 96.5 ms, QRS area in lead I < 0.75 Ashman units, ST slope (lead I) > 31.5 deg, T-wave area (lead V1) < −3.05 Ashman units and PR interval (lead V2) > 157 ms were significant predictors. A weighted score based on dichotomized values provided good predictive performance (hazard ratio: 1.59, 95% confidence interval: 1.27–2.00, P-value<0.0001, area under the curve: 0.84). Conclusions: Automated ECG analysis revealed novel risk markers in BrS. These markers should be validated in larger prospective studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gary Tse
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Sharen Lee
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Andrew Li
- Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Dong Chang
- Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Guangping Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiandong Zhou
- School of Data Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Ionic-Molecular Function of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Institute of Cardiology, Second Hospital of Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Qingpeng Zhang
- School of Data Science, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dani M, Dirksen A, Taraborrelli P, Torocastro M, Panagopoulos D, Sutton R, Lim PB. Autonomic dysfunction in 'long COVID': rationale, physiology and management strategies. Clin Med (Lond) 2020; 21:e63-e67. [PMID: 33243837 DOI: 10.7861/clinmed.2020-0896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 352] [Impact Index Per Article: 88.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused unprecedented morbidity, mortality and global disruption. Following the initial surge of infections, focus shifted to managing the longer-term sequelae of illness in survivors. 'Post-acute COVID' (known colloquially as 'long COVID') is emerging as a prevalent syndrome. It encompasses a plethora of debilitating symptoms (including breathlessness, chest pain, palpitations and orthostatic intolerance) which can last for weeks or more following mild illness. We describe a series of individuals with symptoms of 'long COVID', and we posit that this condition may be related to a virus- or immune-mediated disruption of the autonomic nervous system resulting in orthostatic intolerance syndromes. We suggest that all physicians should be equipped to recognise such cases, appreciate the symptom burden and provide supportive management. We present our rationale for an underlying impaired autonomic physiology post-COVID-19 and suggest means of management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Dani
- Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK and Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Richard Sutton
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Stec S, Dobaj Ł, Śledź A, Stępień-Wałek AM, Ton V, Śledź J. Cardioneuroablation for management of cardioinhibitory vasovagal syncope and pacemaker complications. HeartRhythm Case Rep 2020; 6:531-534. [PMID: 32817835 PMCID: PMC7424299 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrcr.2020.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Stec
- Research and Development Centre, MediNice, Rzeszów, Poland
- ELMedica, EP-Network, Skarżysko-Kamienna, Poland
| | - Łukasz Dobaj
- Research and Development Centre, MediNice, Rzeszów, Poland
- Department of Cardiovascular Rehabilitation, Busko-Zdrój, Poland
| | | | | | - Victor Ton
- EPMap-System, Pulmokard, Herdecke, Germany
| | - Janusz Śledź
- ELMedica, EP-Network, Skarżysko-Kamienna, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sutton R. Diagnostic Tools to Assess Dysfunction of Autonomic Control of the Heart. J Atr Fibrillation 2020; 13:2402. [PMID: 33024502 DOI: 10.4022/jafib.2402] [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: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The most important diagnostic tool available in assessment of dysfunction of the autonomic control of the heart is the clinical history which must be taken in the greatest possible detail including from the patient and witnesses of the syncope/event. Correct history taking will make many diagnoses avoiding need for further testing and guide further investigation if needed and when appropriate. This paper focusses on the investigation of patients when required, the available tests, their indications, how to perform them for maximum yield and how to interpret the results. Tilt-testing, carotid sinus massage, active stand, cardiovascular autonomic nervous system tests, ambulatory blood pressure and insertable ECG loop recorder are covered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Sutton
- Cardiac Dept., Hammersmith Hospital Campus of National Heart & Lung Institute, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Grabczak EM, Stec S, Dabrowska M, Plevkova J, Krenke R. Cough as a Cause and Consequence of Heart Dysfunction - Current State of Art. Physiol Res 2020; 69:S105-S121. [PMID: 32228016 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The cough reflex is an airway defensive process that can be modulated by afferent inputs from organs located also out of the respiratory system. A bidirectional relationship between cough and heart dysfunctions are presented in the article, with the special insights into an arrhythmia-triggered cough. Albeit rare, cough induced by cardiac pathologies (mainly arrhythmias) seems to be an interesting and underestimated phenomenon. This condition is usually associated with the presence of abnormal heart rhythms and ceases with successful treatment of arrhythmia either by pharmacotherapy or by radiofrequency ablation of arrhythmogenic substrate. The two main hypotheses on cough-heart relationships - reflex and hemodynamic - are discussed in the review, including the authors' perspective based on the experiences with an arrhythmia-triggered cough.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E M Grabczak
- Department of Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Diseases and Allergy, University Clinical Centre, Medical University of Warsaw, Poland.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Sharma N, Cortez D, Disori K, Imundo JR, Beck M. A Review of Long QT Syndrome: Everything a Hospitalist Should Know. Hosp Pediatr 2020; 10:369-375. [PMID: 32144177 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2019-0139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In this article, we will review various aspects of long QT syndrome (LQTS) necessary for hospitalists who care for children, adolescents, and young adults who have known LQTS and also review presenting features that should make one consider LQTS as a cause of hospitalization. Pediatric hospitalists care for patients who have suffered near-drowning, unexplained motor vehicular accidents, brief resolved unexpected events, sudden infant death syndrome, recurrent miscarriages, syncope, or seizures. These common conditions can be clinical clues in patients harboring 1 of 16 LQTS genetic mutations. LQTS is commonly caused by a channelopathy that can cause sudden cardiac death. Over the years, guidelines on management and recommendations for sports participation have evolved with our understanding of the disease and the burden of arrhythmias manifested in the pediatric age group. This review will include the genetic causes of LQTS, clinical features, and important historical information to obtain when these presentations are encountered. We will review medical and surgical treatments available to patients with LQTS and long-term care recommendations and prognosis for those diagnosed with LQTS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Daniel Cortez
- Division of Adult Electrophysiology, Department of Cardiology, Penn State Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania; and.,Department of Cardiology, University of Lund, Lund, Sweden
| | - Kristin Disori
- Pediatric Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | | | - Michael Beck
- Pediatric Hospital Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Penn State Children's Hospital, Hershey, Pennsylvania;
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Martín-Rodríguez F, Del Pozo Vegas C, Mohedano-Moriano A, Polonio-López B, Maestre Miquel C, Viñuela A, Durantez Fernández C, Gómez Correas J, López-Izquierdo R, Martín-Conty JL. Role of Biomarkers in the Prediction of Serious Adverse Events after Syncope in Prehospital Assessment: A Multi-Center Observational Study. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9030651. [PMID: 32121225 PMCID: PMC7141384 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9030651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Syncope is defined as the nontraumatic, transient loss of awareness of rapid onset, short duration and with complete spontaneous recovery, and accounts for 1%–3% of all visits to the emergency department. The objective of this study was to evaluate the predictive capacity of the National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) and prehospital lactate (pLA), individually and combined, at the prehospital level to detect patients with syncope at risk of early mortality (within 48 h) in the hospital environment. A prospective, multicenter cohort study without intervention was carried out on syncope patients aged over 18 who were given advanced life support and taken to the hospital. Our study included a total of 361 cases. Early mortality affected 21 patients (5.8%). The combined score formed by the NEWS2 and the pLA (NEWS2-L) obtained an AUC of 0.948 (95% CI: 0.88–1) and an odds ratio of 86.25 (95% CI: 11.36–645.57), which is significantly higher than that obtained by the NEWS2 or pLA in isolation (p = 0.018). The NEWS2-L can help stratify the risk in patients with syncope treated in the prehospital setting, with only the standard measurement of physiological parameters and pLA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Martín-Rodríguez
- Advanced Clinical Simulation Center, School of Medicine, Universidad de Valladolid. Advanced Life Support Unit, Emergency Medical Services, 47005 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - Carlos Del Pozo Vegas
- Emergency Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valladolid, 47003 Valladolid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-659-880-090
| | - Alicia Mohedano-Moriano
- Faculty of Health Sciences. Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (C.M.M.); (A.V.); (C.D.F.); (J.G.C.); (J.L.M.-C.)
| | - Begoña Polonio-López
- Faculty of Health Sciences. Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (C.M.M.); (A.V.); (C.D.F.); (J.G.C.); (J.L.M.-C.)
| | - Clara Maestre Miquel
- Faculty of Health Sciences. Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (C.M.M.); (A.V.); (C.D.F.); (J.G.C.); (J.L.M.-C.)
| | - Antonio Viñuela
- Faculty of Health Sciences. Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (C.M.M.); (A.V.); (C.D.F.); (J.G.C.); (J.L.M.-C.)
| | - Carlos Durantez Fernández
- Faculty of Health Sciences. Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (C.M.M.); (A.V.); (C.D.F.); (J.G.C.); (J.L.M.-C.)
| | - Jesús Gómez Correas
- Faculty of Health Sciences. Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (C.M.M.); (A.V.); (C.D.F.); (J.G.C.); (J.L.M.-C.)
| | - Raúl López-Izquierdo
- Emergency Department, Hospital Universitario Rio Hortega, 47012 Valladolid, Spain;
| | - José Luis Martín-Conty
- Faculty of Health Sciences. Universidad de Castilla la Mancha, 45600 Talavera de la Reina, Spain; (A.M.-M.); (C.M.M.); (A.V.); (C.D.F.); (J.G.C.); (J.L.M.-C.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhang Z, Jiang X, Han L, Chen S, Tao L, Tao C, Tian H, Du J. Differential Diagnostic Models Between Vasovagal Syncope and Psychogenic Pseudosyncope in Children. Front Neurol 2020; 10:1392. [PMID: 32038462 PMCID: PMC6989585 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.01392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: We aimed to establish useful models for the clinical differential diagnosis between vasovagal syncope (VVS) and psychogenic pseudosyncope (PPS). Methods: This bicentric study included 176 patients (150 VVS and 26 PPS cases) for model development. Based on the results of univariate and multivariate analyses, a logistic regression model and a scoring model were established and their abilities to differentiate VVS from PPS were tested. Another 78 patients (53 VVS and 25 PPS) were used for external validation. Results: In the logistic regression model, the outcome indicated that the QT-dispersion (QTd) (P < 0.001), syncope duration (P < 0.001), and upright posture (P < 0.001) acted as independent factors for the differentiation of VVS from PPS, which generated an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.892. A cutoff value of 0.234 yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 89.3 and 80.8%, respectively, for the differentiation between VVS and PPS in the logistic regression model. In the scoring model which consists of three variables, a cutoff score of three points yielded a sensitivity and specificity of 91.3 and 76.9%, respectively, with an AUC of 0.909. The external validation test indicated that the negative and positive predictive values of the scoring model were 78.8 and 91.7%, respectively, and the accuracy was 80.8%. Conclusion: The scoring model consisting of three variables is an easy-to-perform, inexpensive, and non-invasive measure for initial differential diagnosis between VVS and PPS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhening Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Research Unit of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Syncope and Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xingyuan Jiang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Research Unit of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Syncope and Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Lu Han
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Selena Chen
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Ling Tao
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chunyan Tao
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Research Unit of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Syncope and Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Tian
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Junbao Du
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
- Research Unit of Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Pediatric Syncope and Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Cardiovascular Sciences, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Aronow WS, Shamliyan TA. Effects of antidepressants on QT interval in people with mental disorders. Arch Med Sci 2020; 16:727-741. [PMID: 32542073 PMCID: PMC7286318 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2019.86928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Drug-induced QT prolongation is associated with higher cardiovascular mortality. MATERIAL AND METHODS We conducted a protocol-based comprehensive review of antidepressant-induced QT prolongation in people with mental disorders. RESULTS Based on findings from 47 published randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 3 unpublished RCTs, 14 observational studies, 662 case reports of torsades de pointes, and 168 cases of QT prolongation, we conclude that all antidepressants should be used only with licensed doses, and that all patients receiving antidepressants require monitoring of QT prolongation and clinical symptoms of cardiac arrhythmias. Large observational studies suggest increased mortality associated with all antidepressants (RR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.60-1.63, number of adults: 1,716,552), high doses of tricyclic antidepressants (OR = 2.11, 85% CI 1.10-4.22), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (OR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.24-6.24), venlafaxine (OR = 3.73, 95% CI: 1.33-10.45, number of adults: 4,040), and nortriptyline (OR = 4.60, 95% CI: 1.20-18.40, number of adults: 5,298). CONCLUSIONS Evidence regarding the risk of QT prolongation in children is sparse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilbert S. Aronow
- Department of Medicine and Cardiology Research, Westchester Medical Center and New York Medical College, New York, USA
| | - Tatyana A. Shamliyan
- Elsevier, Clinical Solutions, Philadelphia, USA
- Corresponding author: Tatyana A. Shamliyan MD, MS, Elsevier Clinical Solutions, 1600 Kennedy Blvd, 19103 Philadelphia, USA, Phone: 2675004863, E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sandhu RK, Sheldon RS. Syncope in the Emergency Department. Front Cardiovasc Med 2019; 6:180. [PMID: 31850375 PMCID: PMC6901601 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2019.00180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Syncope is a common presentation to Emergency Departments (EDs). Estimates on the frequency of visits (0.6–1.7%) and subsequent rates of hospitalizations (12–85%) vary according to country. The initial ED evaluation for syncope consists of a detailed history, physical examination and 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG). The use of additional diagnostic testing and specialist evaluation should be based on this initial evaluation rather than an unstructured approach of broad-based testing. Risk stratification performed in the ED is important for estimating prognosis, triage decisions and to establish urgency of any further work-up. The primary approach to risk stratification focuses on identifying high- and low-risk predictors. The use of prediction tools may be used to aid in physician decision-making; however, they have not performed better than the clinical judgment of emergency room physicians. Following risk stratification, decision for hospitalization should be based on the seriousness of the underlying cause for syncope or based on high-risk features, or the severity of co-morbidities. For those deemed intermediate risk, access to specialist assessment and related testing may occur in a syncope unit in the emergency department, as an outpatient, or in a less formal care pathway and is highly dependent on the local healthcare system. For syncope patients presenting to the ED, ~0.8% die and 10.3% suffer a non-fatal severe outcome within 30 days.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Robert S Sheldon
- Department of Cardiac Sciences, Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Bong J, Yasin O, Vaidya VR, Park J, Attia ZI, Padmanabhan D, Cho SJ, Asirvatham R, Schneider N, Lee J, Kim EM, Friedman PA, Ma Z. Injectable Flexible Subcutaneous Electrode Array Technology for Electrocardiogram Monitoring Device. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2019; 6:2652-2658. [DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.9b01102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jihye Bong
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin−Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Omar Yasin
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, United States
| | - Vaibhav R. Vaidya
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, United States
| | - Jeongpil Park
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin−Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Zachi I. Attia
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, United States
| | - Deepak Padmanabhan
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, United States
| | - Sang June Cho
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin−Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Roshini Asirvatham
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, United States
| | - Noah Schneider
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, United States
| | - Juhwan Lee
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin−Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| | - Eun Mee Kim
- Department of Emergency Medical Technology, Korea Nazarene University, Cheonan 31172, South Korea
| | - Paul A. Friedman
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, United States
| | - Zhenqiang Ma
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Wisconsin−Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Kazmirczak F, Chen KHA, Adabag S, von Wald L, Roukoz H, Benditt DG, Okasha O, Farzaneh-Far A, Markowitz J, Nijjar PS, Velangi PS, Bhargava M, Perlman D, Duval S, Akçakaya M, Shenoy C. Assessment of the 2017 AHA/ACC/HRS Guideline Recommendations for Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Implantation in Cardiac Sarcoidosis. Circ Arrhythm Electrophysiol 2019; 12:e007488. [PMID: 31431050 DOI: 10.1161/circep.119.007488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators are used to prevent sudden cardiac death in patients with cardiac sarcoidosis. The most recent recommendations for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation in these patients are in the 2017 American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology/Heart Rhythm Society Guideline for Management of Patients With Ventricular Arrhythmias and the Prevention of Sudden Cardiac Death. These recommendations, based on observational studies or expert opinion, have not been assessed. We aimed to assess them. METHODS We performed a large retrospective cohort study of patients with biopsy-proven sarcoidosis and known or suspected cardiac sarcoidosis that underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging. Patients were followed for a composite end point of significant ventricular arrhythmia or sudden cardiac death. The discriminatory performance of the Guideline recommendations was tested using time-dependent receiver operating characteristic analyses. The optimal cutoff for the extent of late gadolinium enhancement predictive of the composite end point was determined using the Youden index. RESULTS In 290 patients, the class I and IIa recommendations identified all patients who experienced the composite end point during a median follow-up of 3.0 years. Patients meeting class I recommendations had a significantly higher incidence of the composite end point than those meeting class IIa recommendations. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) >35% with >5.7% late gadolinium enhancement on cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging was as sensitive as and significantly more specific than LVEF >35% with any late gadolinium enhancement. Patients meeting 2 class IIa recommendations, LVEF >35% with the need for a permanent pacemaker and LVEF >35% with late gadolinium enhancement >5.7%, had high annualized event rates. Excluding 2 class IIa recommendations, LVEF >35% with syncope and LVEF >35% with inducible ventricular arrhythmia, resulted in improved discrimination for the composite end point. CONCLUSIONS We assessed the Guideline recommendations for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator implantation in patients with known or suspected cardiac sarcoidosis and identified topics for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Kazmirczak
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Ko-Hsuan Amy Chen
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Selcuk Adabag
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN (S.A.)
| | - Lisa von Wald
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Henri Roukoz
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - David G Benditt
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Osama Okasha
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Afshin Farzaneh-Far
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago (A.F.-F.)
| | - Jeremy Markowitz
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Prabhjot S Nijjar
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Pratik S Velangi
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Maneesh Bhargava
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine (M.B., D.P.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - David Perlman
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine (M.B., D.P.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Sue Duval
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| | - Mehmet Akçakaya
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Center for Magnetic Resonance Research, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (M.A.)
| | - Chetan Shenoy
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Medicine (F.K., K.-H.A.C., S.A., L.v.W., H.R., D.G.B., O.O., J.M., P.S.N., P.S.V., S.D., C.S.), University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Torabi P, Ricci F, Hamrefors V, Melander O, Sutton R, Benditt DG, Fedorowski A. Impact of Cardiovascular Neurohormones on Onset of Vasovagal Syncope Induced by Head-up Tilt. J Am Heart Assoc 2019; 8:e012559. [PMID: 31208249 PMCID: PMC6645642 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.119.012559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Vasovagal reflex is the most common form of syncope, but the pathophysiological mechanisms that initiate the reflex are not well understood. We aimed to study supine and early orthostatic levels of the neurohormones involved in control of circulatory homeostasis in relation to the onset of tilt‐induced vasovagal syncope (VVS). Methods and Results A total of 827 patients who were investigated for unexplained syncope with head‐up tilt test (HUT) and optional nitroglycerin provocation (Italian protocol) had blood samples collected while supine and after 3‐minutes of HUT. Of these, 173 (20.9%) patients developed VVS during drug‐free HUT, 161 of whom (males 44.7%; age 45±21 years) had complete data. We analyzed levels of epinephrine, norepinephrine, C‐terminal pro–arginine vasopressin, C‐terminal endothelin‐1, and midregional fragments of pro–atrial natriuretic peptide and pro‐adrenomedullin in relation to time from tilt‐up to onset of VVS. We applied a linear regression model adjusted for age and sex. The mean time to syncope was 11±7 minutes. Older age (β=0.13; SE=0.03, P<0.001), higher supine systolic blood pressure (β=0.06; SE=0.03, P=0.02), and higher supine midregional fragment of pro‐adrenomedullin predicted longer time to syncope (β=2.31; SE=0.77, P=0.003), whereas supine levels of other neurohormones were not associated with time to syncope. Among 151 patients who developed VVS later than 3 minutes of HUT, increase in epinephrine (β=−3.24; SE=0.78, P<0.001) and C‐terminal pro–arginine vasopressin (β=−2.07; SE=0.61, P=0.001) at 3 minutes of HUT were related to shorter time to syncope. Conclusions Older age, higher blood pressure, and higher level of pro‐adrenomedullin are associated with later onset of VVS during tilt testing, whereas greater increase of tilt‐induced epinephrine and vasopressin release correlate with shorter time to syncope. See Editorial Williford et al
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Torabi
- 1 Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,2 Department of Clinical Physiology Skåne University Hospital Malmö Sweden
| | - Fabrizio Ricci
- 1 Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,3 Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences "G. d'Annunzio" University Chieti Italy.,4 Fondazione Villa Serena per la Ricerca Città Sant'Angelo Italy
| | - Viktor Hamrefors
- 1 Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,5 Department of Internal Medicine Skåne University Hospital Malmö Sweden
| | - Olle Melander
- 1 Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,5 Department of Internal Medicine Skåne University Hospital Malmö Sweden
| | - Richard Sutton
- 6 National Heart and Lung Institute Imperial College Hammersmith Hospital Campus London United Kingdom
| | - David G Benditt
- 7 Cardiac Arrhythmia Center Cardiovascular Division University of Minnesota Minneapolis MN
| | - Artur Fedorowski
- 1 Department of Clinical Sciences Lund University Malmö Sweden.,8 Department of Cardiology Skåne University Hospital Malmö Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
See Article Torabi et al
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noah N Williford
- 1 University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics the Veterans Affairs Medical Center Iowa City IA
| | - Mark W Chapleau
- 1 University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics the Veterans Affairs Medical Center Iowa City IA
| | - Brian Olshansky
- 1 University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics the Veterans Affairs Medical Center Iowa City IA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Winter J, Laing C, Johannes B, Mulder E, Brix B, Roessler A, Reichmuth J, Rittweger J, Goswami N. Galanin and Adrenomedullin Plasma Responses During Artificial Gravity on a Human Short-Arm Centrifuge. Front Physiol 2019; 9:1956. [PMID: 30774604 PMCID: PMC6367687 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Galanin and adrenomedullin plasma responses to head-up tilt and lower body negative pressure have been studied previously. However, to what extent short-arm human centrifugation (SAHC) affects these responses is not known. In this study, we assessed how the application of variable gradients of accelerations (ΔGz ) via shifting of the rotation axis during centrifugation affects selected hormonal responses. Specifically, we tested the hypothesis, that cardiovascular modulating hormones such as galanin and adrenomedullin will be higher in non-finishers (participants in whom at least one of the pre-defined criteria for presyncope was fulfilled) when compared to finishers (participants who completed the entire protocol in both sessions) during SAHC exposure. Twenty healthy subjects (10 women and 10 men) were exposed to two g-levels [1 Gz and 2.4 Gz at the feet (Gz_Feet)] in two positions (axis of rotation placed above the head and axis of rotation placed at the heart level). Elevated baseline levels of galanin appeared to predict orthostatic tolerance (p = 0.054) and seemed to support good orthostatic tolerance during 1 Gz_Feet SAHC (p = 0.034). In finishers, 2.4 Gz_Feet SAHC was associated with increased galanin levels after centrifugation (p = 0.007). For adrenomedullin, the hypothesized increases were observed after centrifugation at 1 Gz_Feet (p = 0.031), but not at 2.4 Gz_Feet, suggesting that other central mechanisms than local distribution of adrenomedullin predominate when coping with central hypovolemia induced by SAHC (p > 0.14). In conclusion, baseline galanin levels could potentially be used to predict development of presyncope in subjects. Furthermore, galanin levels increase during elevated levels of central hypovolemia and galanin responses appear to be important for coping with such challenges. Adrenomedullin release depends on degree of central hypovolemia induced fluid shifts and a subject's ability to cope with such challenges. Our results suggest that the gradient of acceleration (ΔGz ) is an innovative approach to quantify the grade of central hypovolemia and to assess neurohormonal responses in those that can tolerate (finishers) or not tolerate (non-finishers) artificial gravity (AG). As AG is being considered as a preventing tool for spaceflight induced deconditioning in future missions, understanding effects of AG on hormonal responses in subjects who develop presyncope is important.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Winter
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Institute for Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Charles Laing
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Institute for Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR), Cologne, Germany
- Centre for Human and Aerospace Physiological Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bernd Johannes
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Institute for Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Edwin Mulder
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Institute for Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR), Cologne, Germany
| | - Bianca Brix
- Gravitational Physiology and Medical Research Unit, Physiology Division, Otto Loewi Center for Research in Vascular Biology, Immunity, and Inflammation, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Andreas Roessler
- Gravitational Physiology and Medical Research Unit, Physiology Division, Otto Loewi Center for Research in Vascular Biology, Immunity, and Inflammation, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Johannes Reichmuth
- Gravitational Physiology and Medical Research Unit, Physiology Division, Otto Loewi Center for Research in Vascular Biology, Immunity, and Inflammation, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Joern Rittweger
- Department of Aerospace Physiology, Institute for Aerospace Medicine, German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR), Cologne, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nandu Goswami
- Gravitational Physiology and Medical Research Unit, Physiology Division, Otto Loewi Center for Research in Vascular Biology, Immunity, and Inflammation, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Barbic F, Dipaola F, Casazza G, Borella M, Minonzio M, Solbiati M, Raj SR, Sheldon R, Quinn J, Costantino G, Furlan R. Syncope in a Working-Age Population: Recurrence Risk and Related Risk Factors. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8020150. [PMID: 30699893 PMCID: PMC6406660 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8020150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Syncope in a worker undertaking risky tasks may result in fatalities for the individual or for third parties. We aimed at assessing the rate of syncope recurrence and the risk factors underlying the likelihood of syncope relapse in a working-age population. A prospective cohort of all patients aged 18–65 years consecutively admitted to the Emergency Department for syncope was enrolled. Risk of syncope relapse was assessed at a six-month, 1-year, and 5-year follow-up. Predictors of syncope recurrence have been evaluated at six months and 1 year from the syncope index by a multivariable logistic regression analysis. 348 patients were enrolled. Risk of syncope relapse was 9.2% at 6 months, 11.8% at 1 year, and 23.4% at 5 years. At 6-month follow-up, predictor of syncope recurrence was ≥3 prior lifetime syncope episodes. At 1-year, ≥3 prior lifetime syncope episodes, diabetes mellitus, and anaemia were risk factors for syncope relapse. There was an exceeding risk of recurrence in the first 6 months and a reduced risk of 3.5% per year after the first year. Anaemia, diabetes mellitus, and prior lifetime syncope burden are of importance when giving advice about the resumption of “high risk” jobs following a syncope episode.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Franca Barbic
- Internal Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Biomedical Sciences Department, Humanitas University, 20089 Rozzano, Italy.
| | - Franca Dipaola
- Internal Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Biomedical Sciences Department, Humanitas University, 20089 Rozzano, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Casazza
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Cliniche "L. Sacco"-Università degli Studi di Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy.
| | - Marta Borella
- Emergency Department, Ospedale di Rho, ASST Rhodense, 20017 Rho, Italy.
| | - Maura Minonzio
- Internal Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Biomedical Sciences Department, Humanitas University, 20089 Rozzano, Italy.
| | - Monica Solbiati
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Satish R Raj
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada.
| | - Robert Sheldon
- Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta, Department of Cardiac Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4Z6, Canada.
| | - James Quinn
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
| | - Giorgio Costantino
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy.
| | - Raffaello Furlan
- Internal Medicine, Humanitas Clinical and Research Center, Biomedical Sciences Department, Humanitas University, 20089 Rozzano, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
[Transient loss of consciousness : Algorithm for the (differential) diagnosis of syncope at emergency department]. Med Klin Intensivmed Notfmed 2018; 114:410-419. [PMID: 30413862 DOI: 10.1007/s00063-018-0501-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Transient loss of consciousness (TLoC) is a common complaint leading to presentation at the emergency department. This comprises a heterogeneous group of disorders including cerebral events, metabolic disturbances, intoxication, psychogenic patterns or any form of syncope. While many causes are benign and self-limited not requiring extensive in-hospital evaluation, others are potentially severe. The optimal evaluation of patients with TLoC/syncope follows a risk-adapted diagnostic algorithm in order to exclude life-threatening conditions and to identify those with high risk for further deterioration like structural heart diseases requiring further diagnostic evaluation. Low-risk patients can be discharged without further extensive diagnostic work up. This article presents an algorithm for structured, evidence-based care of the syncope patient in accordance with the recently launched "2018 ESC guidelines for the diagnosis and management of syncope" in order to ensure that patients requiring hospitalization are managed appropriately and those with benign causes are discharged safely. The English version of this algorithm is available at the end of the article under "Supplementary Material".
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Numerous important cardiology clinical trials have been published or presented at major international meetings during 2017. This paper aims to summarize these trials and place them in clinical context. METHODS The authors reviewed clinical trials presented at major cardiology conferences during 2017 including the American College of Cardiology, European Association for Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions, European Society of Cardiology, European Association for the Study of Diabetes, Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics, and the American Heart Association. Selection criteria were trials with a broad relevance to the cardiology community and those with potential to change current practice. RESULTS A total of 75 key cardiology clinical trials were identified for inclusion. New interventional and structural cardiology data include left main bifurcation treatment strategy, multivessel disease management in cardiogenic shock, drug-eluting balloons for in-stent restenosis, instantaneous wave-free physiological assessment, new-generation stents (COMBO, Orsiro), transcatheter aortic valve implantation, and closure devices. New preventative cardiology data include trials of liraglutide, empagliflozin, PCSK9 inhibitors (evolocumab and bococizumab), inclisiran, and anacetrapib. Antiplatelet data include the role of uninterrupted aspirin therapy during non-cardiac surgery and dual antiplatelet therapy following coronary artery bypass grafting. New data are also included from fields of heart failure (levosimendan, spironolactone), atrial fibrillation (apixaban in DC cardioversion), cardiac devices (closed loop stimulation pacing for neuromediated syncope), and electrophysiology (catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation). CONCLUSION This paper presents a summary of key clinical cardiology trials during the past year and should be of practical value to both clinicians and cardiology researchers.
Collapse
|
37
|
Gopinathannair R, Salgado BC, Olshansky B. Pacing for Vasovagal Syncope. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2018; 7:95-102. [PMID: 29967681 PMCID: PMC6020179 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2018.22.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is due to a common autonomic reflex involving the cardiovascular system. It is associated with bradycardia (cardioinhibitory response) and/or hypotension (vasodepressor response), likely mediated by parasympathetic activation and sympathetic inhibition. While generally a situational, isolated and/or self-limited event, for some, VVS is recurrent, unpredictable and debilitating. Conservative, non-pharmacological management may help, but no specific medical therapy has been proven widely effective. Permanent pacing may have specific benefit, but its value has been debated. The temporal causative association of bradycardia with syncope in those with VVS may help identify which patient could benefit from pacing but the timing and type of pacing in lieu of blood pressure changes may be critical. The mode, rate, pacing algorithm and time to initiate dual-chamber pacing preferentially with respect to the vasovagal reflex may be important to prevent or ameliorate the faint but completely convincing data are not yet available. Based on available data, DDD pacing with the closed loop stimulation algorithm appears a viable, if not the best, alternative presently to prevent recurrent VVS episodes. While several knowledge gaps remain, permanent pacing appears to have a role in managing select patients with VVS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Benjamin C Salgado
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of LouisvilleLouisville, USA
| | - Brian Olshansky
- Mercy Heart and Vascular Institute, Mason City; and the University of Iowa HospitalsIowa City, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Klein HH. [Syncope and fitness to drive]. Herzschrittmacherther Elektrophysiol 2018; 29:214-218. [PMID: 29766266 DOI: 10.1007/s00399-018-0565-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Although medical students are rarely instructed in traffic medicine in Germany, they are obliged to inform their patients about their fitness to drive after having become a medical doctor. This article gives an overview on the fitness to drive for patients with syncope by referring to the driving license regulation and the current guidelines released by the department of traffic. The driving license regulation distinguishes between group 1 and group 2 drivers. Group 1 drivers drive vehicles with a total weight less than 3.5 t, whereas group 2 drivers drive vehicles with a total weight above 3.5 t or provide commercial passenger transport. Since patients with syncope may suffer from different serious illnesses, the first approach is to clarify the cause of syncope. If no treatable cause of syncope (e. g., pacemaker, aortic valve replacement) is found, drivers of group 1 are not fit to drive for 6 months after a second unexplained syncope, whereas in this situation, drivers of group 2 are not fit to drive permanently. If, however, syncopes occur in conditions which cannot be expected to occur while driving (e. g. venipuncture, defecation, micturition) fitness to drive will persist. Syncope due to ventricular tachycardia in ischemic heart disease and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction are in general treated with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). Group 2 drivers with an ICD are normally unfit to drive. Group 1 drivers with an ICD are fit to drive when no syncope or adequate shock occurred within the last three months.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hermann H Klein
- Helios Klinikum Warburg, Langwiesenstr. 13, 55743, Idar-Oberstein, Deutschland.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Aronow WS, Shamliyan TA. Effects of atypical antipsychotic drugs on QT interval in patients with mental disorders. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2018; 6:147. [PMID: 29862236 DOI: 10.21037/atm.2018.03.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Drug-induced QT prolongation is associated with higher risk of cardiac arrhythmias and cardiovascular mortality. We investigated the effects of atypical antipsychotic drugs on QT interval in children and adults with mental disorders. Methods We conducted random-effects direct frequentist meta-analyses of aggregate data from randomized controlled trials (RCT) and appraised the quality of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Our search in PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, clinicaltrials.gov, and PharmaPendium up to October 2017 identified studies that examined aripiprazole, quetiapine, risperidone, olanzapine, ziprasidone and brexpiprazole. Results Low quality evidence suggests that aripiprazole (four meta-analyses and twelve RCTs), brexpiprazole (one systematic review and four RCTs) or olanzapine (five meta-analyses and twenty RCTs) do not increase QT interval. Low quality evidence suggests that ziprasidone (five meta-analyses and 11 RCTs) increases QT interval and the rates of QT prolongation while risperidone (four meta-analyses, 70 RCTs) and quetiapine (two meta-analyses and seven RCTs) are associated with QT prolongation and greater odds of torsades de pointes ventricular tachycardia especially in cases of drug overdose. Conclusions The main conclusion of our study is that in people with mental disorders and under treatment with atypical antipsychotic drugs, in order to avoid QT prolongation and reduce the risk of ventricular tachycardia clinicians may recommend aripiprazole, brexpiprazole or olanzapine in licensed doses. Long-term comparative safety needs to be established.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilbert S Aronow
- Department of Cardiology, Westchester Medical Center, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Tatyana A Shamliyan
- Quality Assurance, Evidence-Based Medicine Center, Elsevier, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Pournazari P, Oqab Z, Sheldon R. Diagnostic Value of Neurological Studies in Diagnosing Syncope: A Systematic Review. Can J Cardiol 2017; 33:1604-1610. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 04/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
|
41
|
Kratzert WB, Boyd EK, Schwarzenberger JC. Management of the Critically Ill Adult With Congenital Heart Disease. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2017; 32:1682-1700. [PMID: 29500124 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2017.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Survival of adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) has improved significantly over the last 2 decades, leading to an increase in hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) admissions of these patients. Whereas most of the ICU admissions in the past were related to perioperative management, the incidence of medical emergencies from long-term sequelae of palliative or corrective surgical treatment of these patients is rising. Intensivists now are confronted with patients who not only have complex anatomy after congenital cardiac surgery, but also complex pathophysiology due to decades of living with abnormal cardiac anatomy and diseases of advanced age. Comorbidities affect all organ systems, including cognitive function, pulmonary and cardiovascular systems, liver, and kidneys. Critical care management requires an in-depth understanding of underlying anatomy and pathophysiology in order to apply contemporary concepts of adult ICU care to this population and optimize patient outcomes. In this review, the main CHD lesions and their common surgical management approaches are described, and the sequelae of CHD physiology are discussed. In addition, the effects of chronic comorbidities on the management of critically ill adults are explored, and the adjustments of current ICU management modalities and pharmacology to optimize care are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wolf B Kratzert
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA.
| | - Eva K Boyd
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Johanna C Schwarzenberger
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Lloyd MG, Wakeling JM, Koehle MS, Drapala RJ, Claydon VE. Carotid sinus hypersensitivity: block of the sternocleidomastoid muscle does not affect responses to carotid sinus massage in healthy young adults. Physiol Rep 2017; 5:5/19/e13448. [PMID: 29038360 PMCID: PMC5641935 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.13448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 08/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The arterial baroreflex is crucial for short‐term blood pressure control – abnormal baroreflex function predisposes to syncope and falling. Hypersensitive responses to carotid baroreflex stimulation using carotid sinus massage (CSM) are common in older adults and may be associated with syncope. The pathophysiology of this hypersensitivity is unknown, but chronic denervation of the sternocleidomastoid muscles is common in elderly patients with carotid sinus hypersensitivity (CSH), and is proposed to interfere with normal integration of afferent firing from the carotid baroreceptors with proprioceptive feedback from the sternocleidomastoids, producing large responses to CSM. We hypothesized that simulation of sternocleidomastoid “denervation” using pharmacological blockade would increase cardiovascular responses to CSM. Thirteen participants received supine and tilted CSM prior to intramuscular injections (6–8 mL distributed over four sites) of 2% lidocaine hydrochloride, and 0.9% saline (placebo) in contralateral sternocleidomastoid muscles. Muscle activation was recorded with electromyography (EMG) during maximal unilateral sternocleidomastoid contraction both pre‐ and postinjection. Supine and tilted CSM were repeated following injections and responses compared to preinjection. Following lidocaine injection, the muscle activation fell to 23 ± 0.04% of the preinjection value (P < 0.001), confirming neural block of the sternocleidomastoid muscles. Cardiac (RRI, RR interval), forearm vascular resistance (FVR), and systolic arterial pressure (SAP) responses to CSM did not increase after lidocaine injection in either supine or tilted positions (supine: ΔRRI −72 ± 31 ms, ΔSAP +2 ± 1 mmHg, ΔFVR +4 ± 4%; tilted: ΔRRI −20 ± 13 ms, ΔSAP +2 ± 2 mmHg, ΔFVR +2 ± 4%; all P > 0.05). Neural block of the sternocleidomastoid muscles does not increase cardiovascular responses to CSM. The pathophysiology of CSH remains unknown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew G Lloyd
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - James M Wakeling
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Michael S Koehle
- School of Kinesiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Robert J Drapala
- Division of Sport and Exercise Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Victoria E Claydon
- Department of Biomedical Physiology and Kinesiology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Vasovagal syncope with asystole: the role of cardiac pacing. Clin Auton Res 2017; 27:245-251. [DOI: 10.1007/s10286-017-0441-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
|