1
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Invers-Rubio E, Hernández-Romero I, Reventos-Presmanes J, Ferro E, Guichard JB, Regany-Closa M, Pellicer-Sendra B, Borras R, Prat-Gonzalez S, Tolosana JM, Porta-Sanchez A, Arbelo E, Guasch E, Sitges M, Brugada J, Guillem MS, Roca-Luque I, Climent AM, Mont L, Althoff TF. Regional conduction velocities determined by noninvasive mapping are associated with arrhythmia-free survival after atrial fibrillation ablation. Heart Rhythm 2024; 21:1570-1580. [PMID: 38636930 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2024.04.063] [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: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atrial arrhythmogenic substrate is a key determinant of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI), and reduced conduction velocities have been linked to adverse outcome. However, a noninvasive method to assess such electrophysiologic substrate is not available to date. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to noninvasively assess regional conduction velocities and their association with arrhythmia-free survival after PVI. METHODS A consecutive 52 patients scheduled for AF ablation (PVI only) and 19 healthy controls were prospectively included and received electrocardiographic imaging (ECGi) to noninvasively determine regional atrial conduction velocities in sinus rhythm. A novel ECGi technology obviating the need of additional computed tomography or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging was applied and validated by invasive mapping. RESULTS Mean ECGi-determined atrial conduction velocities were significantly lower in AF patients than in healthy controls (1.45 ± 0.15 m/s vs 1.64 ± 0.15 m/s; P < .0001). Differences were particularly pronounced in a regional analysis considering only the segment with the lowest average conduction velocity in each patient (0.8 ± 0.22 m/s vs 1.08 ± 0.26 m/s; P < .0001). This average conduction velocity of the "slowest" segment was independently associated with arrhythmia recurrence and better discriminated between PVI responders and nonresponders than previously proposed predictors, including left atrial size and late gadolinium enhancement (magnetic resonance imaging). Patients without slow-conduction areas (mean conduction velocity <0.78 m/s) showed significantly higher 12-month arrhythmia-free survival than those with 1 or more slow-conduction areas (88.9% vs 48.0%; P = .002). CONCLUSION This is the first study to investigate regional atrial conduction velocities noninvasively. The absence of ECGi-determined slow-conduction areas well discriminates PVI responders from nonresponders. Such noninvasive assessment of electrical arrhythmogenic substrate may guide treatment strategies and be a step toward personalized AF therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Invers-Rubio
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | | | - Jana Reventos-Presmanes
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; ITACA Institute, Universitat Politècnica de València, València, Spain
| | - Elisenda Ferro
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jean-Baptiste Guichard
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Saint-Étienne, Saint-Étienne, France
| | - Mariona Regany-Closa
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Berta Pellicer-Sendra
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Roger Borras
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Susanna Prat-Gonzalez
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jose Maria Tolosana
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andreu Porta-Sanchez
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Arbelo
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduard Guasch
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Sitges
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Josep Brugada
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Maria S Guillem
- ITACA Institute, Universitat Politècnica de València, València, Spain
| | - Ivo Roca-Luque
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Andreu M Climent
- ITACA Institute, Universitat Politècnica de València, València, Spain
| | - Lluís Mont
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Cardiovascular (CIBERCV), Madrid, Spain
| | - Till F Althoff
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Clinic Cardiovascular Institute (ICCV), Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain.
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Ye Z, Ramdat Misier NL, van Schie MS, Xiang H, Knops P, Kluin J, Taverne YJHJ, de Groot NMS. Identification of Critical Slowing of Conduction Using Unipolar Atrial Voltage and Fractionation Mapping. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2024; 10:1971-1981. [PMID: 39023486 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2024.04.036] [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: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ablation strategies targeting fractionated or low-voltage potentials have been widely used in patients with persistent types of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, recent studies have questioned their role in effectively representing sites of conduction slowing, and thus arrhythmogenic substrates. OBJECTIVES The authors studied the relationship between local conduction velocity (CV) and the occurrence of fractionated and/or low-voltage potentials in order to identify areas with critically slowing of conduction. METHODS Intraoperative epicardial mapping was performed during sinus rhythm. Unipolar potentials with an amplitude <1.0 mV were initially classified as low-voltage and potentials with ≥3 deflections as fractionation. A range of thresholds were also explored. Local CV was computed using discrete velocity vectors. RESULTS A total of 319 patients were included. Fractionated, low-voltage potentials were rare, accounting for only 0.36% (Q1-Q3: 0.15%-0.78%) of all atrial sites. Local CV at sites with fractionated, low-voltage potentials (46.0 cm/s [Q1-Q3: 22.6-72.7 cm/s]) was lowest compared with sites with either low-voltage, nonfractionated potentials (64.5 cm/s [Q1-Q3: 34.8-99.4 cm/s]) or fractionated, high-voltage potentials (65.9 cm/s [Q1-Q3: 41.7-92.8 cm/s]; P < 0.001). Slow conduction areas (CV <50 cm/s) could be most accurately identified by using a low voltage threshold (<1 mV) and a minimum of 3 deflections (positive predictive value: 54.2%-70.7%), although the overall sensitivity remained low (0.1%-1.9%). CONCLUSIONS Sites with fractionated, low-voltage potentials have substantially slower local CV compared with sites with either low-voltage, nonfractionated potentials or fractionated, high-voltage potentials. However, the strong inverse relationship between the positive predictive value and sensitivity of a combined voltage and fractionation threshold for slowed conduction is likely to complicate the use of these signal-based ablation approaches in AF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziliang Ye
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Mathijs S van Schie
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Hongxian Xiang
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Knops
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jolanda Kluin
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yannick J H J Taverne
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Natasja M S de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Microelectronics, Signal Processing Systems, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Sciences, Delft University of Technology, Delft, the Netherlands.
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Marashly Q, Najjar SN, Hahn J, Rector GJ, Khawaja M, Chelu MG. Innovations in ventricular tachycardia ablation. J Interv Card Electrophysiol 2023; 66:1499-1518. [PMID: 35879516 DOI: 10.1007/s10840-022-01311-z] [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: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) has evolved significantly over the past decade and is currently a well-established therapeutic option. Technological advances and improved understanding of VA mechanisms have led to tremendous innovations in VA ablation. The purpose of this review article is to provide an overview of current innovations in VA ablation. Mapping techniques, such as ultra-high density mapping, isochronal late activation mapping, and ripple mapping, have provided improved arrhythmogenic substrate delineation and potential procedural success while limiting duration of ablation procedure and potential hemodynamic compromise. Besides, more advanced mapping and ablation techniques such as epicardial and intramyocardial ablation approaches have allowed operators to more precisely target arrhythmogenic substrate. Moreover, advances in alternate energy sources, such as electroporation, as well as stereotactic radiation therapy have been proposed to be effective and safe. New catheters, such as the lattice and the saline-enhanced radiofrequency catheters, have been designed to provide deeper and more durable tissue ablation lesions compared to conventional catheters. Contact force optimization and baseline impedance modulation are important tools to optimize VT radiofrequency ablation and improve procedural success. Furthermore, advances in cardiac imaging, specifically cardiac MRI, have great potential in identifying arrhythmogenic substrate and evaluating ablation success. Overall, VA ablation has undergone significant advances over the past years. Innovations in VA mapping techniques, alternate energy source, new catheters, and utilization of cardiac imaging have great potential to improve overall procedural safety, hemodynamic stability, and procedural success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qussay Marashly
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Salim N Najjar
- Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge Suite A6.137, MS: BCM621, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Joshua Hahn
- Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge Suite A6.137, MS: BCM621, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Graham J Rector
- Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge Suite A6.137, MS: BCM621, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Muzamil Khawaja
- Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge Suite A6.137, MS: BCM621, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Mihail G Chelu
- Division of Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, 7200 Cambridge Suite A6.137, MS: BCM621, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
- Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center, Houston, USA.
- Texas Heart Institute, Houston, USA.
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4
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Ramos KS, Li J, Wijdeveld LFJ, van Schie MS, Taverne YJHJ, Boon RA, de Groot NMS, Brundel BJJM. Long Noncoding RNA UCA1 Correlates With Electropathology in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2023:S2405-500X(23)00116-0. [PMID: 37227342 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2023.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perpetuation of atrial fibrillation (AF) is rooted in derailment of molecular proteostasis pathways that cause electrical conduction disorders that drive AF. Emerging evidence indicates a role for long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the pathophysiology of cardiac diseases, including AF. OBJECTIVES In the present study, the authors explored the association between 3 cardiac lncRNAs and the degree of electropathology. METHODS Patients had paroxysmal AF (ParAF) (n = 59), persistent AF (PerAF) (n = 56), or normal sinus rhythm without a history of AF (SR) (n = 70). The relative expression levels of urothelial carcinoma-associated 1 (UCA1), OXCT1-AS1 (SARRAH), and the mitochondrial lncRNA uc022bqs.q (LIPCAR) were measured by means of quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction in the right atrial appendage (RAA) or serum (or both). A selection of the patients was subjected to high-resolution epicardial mapping to evaluate electrophysiologic features during SR. RESULTS The expression levels of SARRAH and LIPCAR were decreased in RAAs of all AF patients compared with SR. Also, in RAAs, UCA1 levels significantly correlated with the percentage of conduction block and delay, and inversely with conduction velocity, indicating that UCA1 levels in RAA reflect the degree of electrophysiologic disorders. Moreover, in serum samples, SARRAH and UCA1 levels were increased in the total AF group and ParAF patients compared with SR. CONCLUSIONS LncRNAs SARRAH and LIPCAR are reduced in RAA of AF patients, and UCA1 levels correlate with electrophysiologic conduction abnormalities. Thus, RAA UCA1 levels may aid staging of electropathology severity and act as a patient-tailored bioelectrical fingerprint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kennedy S Ramos
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Heart Failure, and Arrhythmias, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jin Li
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Heart Failure, and Arrhythmias, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Leonoor F J Wijdeveld
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Heart Failure, and Arrhythmias, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mathijs S van Schie
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yannick J H J Taverne
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Reinier A Boon
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Heart Failure, and Arrhythmias, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Bianca J J M Brundel
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Heart Failure, and Arrhythmias, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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5
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Castells F, Ruipérez-Campillo S, Segarra I, Cervigón R, Casado-Arroyo R, Merino JL, Millet J. Performance assessment of electrode configurations for the estimation of omnipolar electrograms from high density arrays. Comput Biol Med 2023; 154:106604. [PMID: 36709520 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiomed.2023.106604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to propose a method to reduce the sensitivity of the estimated omnipolar electrogram (oEGM) with respect to the angle of the propagation wavefront. METHODS A novel configuration of cliques taking into account all four electrodes of a squared cell is proposed. To test this approach, simulations of HD grids of cardiac activations at different propagation angles, conduction velocities, interelectrode distance and electrogram waveforms are considered. RESULTS The proposed approach successfully provided narrower loops (essentially a straight line) of the electrical field described by the bipole pair with respect to the conventional approach. Estimation of the direction of propagation was improved. Additionally, estimated oEGMs presented larger amplitude, and estimations of the local activation times were more accurate. CONCLUSIONS A novel method to improve the estimation of oEGMs in HD grid of electrodes is proposed. This approach is superior to the existing methods and avoids pitfalls not yet resolved. RELEVANCE Robust tools for quantifying the cardiac substrate are crucial to determine with accuracy target ablation sites during an electrophysiological procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samuel Ruipérez-Campillo
- ITACA Institute, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain; Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA; School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
| | - Izan Segarra
- ITACA Institute, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - José Luis Merino
- Arrhythmia and Robotic Electrophysiology Unit, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Millet
- ITACA Institute, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain
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High-resolution mapping of reentrant atrial tachycardias: Relevance of low bipolar voltage. Heart Rhythm 2023; 20:430-437. [PMID: 36368515 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bipolar voltage is widely used to characterize the atrial substrate but has been poorly validated, particularly during clinical tachycardias. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of voltage thresholds for identifying regions of slow conduction during reentrant atrial tachycardias (ATs). METHODS Thirty bipolar voltage and activation maps created during reentrant ATs were analyzed to (1) examine the relationship between voltage amplitude and conduction velocity (CV), (2) measure the diagnostic ability of voltage thresholds to predict CV, and (3) identify determinants of AT circuit dimensions. Voltage amplitude was categorized as "normal" (>0.50 mV), "abnormal" (0.05-0.50 mV), or "scar" (<0.05 mV); slow conduction was defined as <30 cm/s. RESULTS A total of 266,457 corresponding voltage and CV data points were included for analysis. Voltage and CV were moderately correlated (r = 0.407; P < .001). Bipolar voltage predicted regions of slow conduction with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.733 (95% confidence interval 0.731-0.735). A threshold of 0.50 mV had 91% sensitivity and 35% specificity for identifying slow conduction, whereas 0.05 mV had 36% sensitivity and 87% specificity, with an optimal voltage threshold of 0.15 mV. Analyses restricted to the AT circuits identified weaker associations between voltage and CV and an optimal voltage threshold of 0.25 mV. CONCLUSION Widely used bipolar voltage amplitude thresholds to define "abnormal" and "scar" tissue in the atria are, respectively, sensitive and specific for identifying regions of slow conduction during reentrant ATs. However, overall, the association of voltage with CV is modest. No clinical predictors of AT circuit dimensions were identified.
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Wronska A. The Role of microRNA in the Development, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Cardiovascular Disease: Recent Developments. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2023; 384:123-132. [PMID: 35779862 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.121.001152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Since their discovery in 1993, microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as important regulators of many crucial cellular processes, and their dysregulation have been shown to contribute to multiple pathologic conditions, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). miRNAs have been found to regulate the expression of various genes involved in cardiac development and function and in the development and progression of CVD. Many miRNAs are master regulators fine-tuning the expression of multiple, often interrelated, genes involved in inflammation, apoptosis, fibrosis, senescence, and other processes crucial for the development of different forms of CVD. This article presents a review of recent developments in our understanding of the role of miRNAs in the development of CVD and surveys their potential applicability as therapeutic targets and biomarkers to facilitate CVD diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. There are currently multiple potential miRNA-based therapeutic agents in different stages of development, which can be grouped into two classes: miRNA mimics (replicating the sequence and activity of their corresponding miRNAs) and antagomiRs (antisense inhibitors of specific miRNAs). However, in spite of promising preliminary data and our ever-increasing knowledge about the mechanisms of action of specific miRNAs, miRNA-based therapeutics and biomarkers have yet to be approved for clinical applications. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Over the last few years microRNAs have emerged as crucial, specific regulators of the cardiovascular system and in the development of cardiovascular disease, by posttranscriptional regulation of their target genes. The minireview presents the most recent developments in this area of research, including the progress in diagnostic and therapeutic applications of microRNAs. microRNAs seem very promising candidates for biomarkers and therapeutic agents, although some challenges, such as efficient delivery and unwanted effects, need to be resolved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anetta Wronska
- Department of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Clyde and Helen Wu Center for Molecular Cardiology, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, New York
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8
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Karatela MF, Dowell RS, Friedman D, Jackson KP, Piccini JP. Omnipolar Versus Bipolar Electrode Mapping in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Catheter Ablation. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2022; 8:1539-1552. [PMID: 36779625 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2022.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Peak-to-peak bipolar voltage varies with electrode orientation, fractionation, and collision events. Novel, omnipolar mapping is less dependent on electrode orientation but has limited data in humans. OBJECTIVES This study sought to compare bipolar peak-to-peak voltage with omnipolar maximum voltage (Vmax) during sinus rhythm in the left atrium of patients with persistent (PerAF) or paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). METHODS Baseline voltage maps were generated with bipolar and omnipolar mapping in 20 patients undergoing de novo catheter ablation for PerAF or PAF and 9 patients with known scar from prior cardiac surgery, to validate voltage-based scar approximations. Low voltage was defined as <0.5 mV and scar <0.1 mV. Mean voltage was compared with unpaired t testing. Percent low voltage and scar were compared with chi-square testing. A point-to-point comparison was performed with Bland-Altman analysis. RESULTS The mean age was 62.2 ± 9.9 years, 34% were women, and 41% had heart failure. Omnipolar mapping identified significantly higher mean voltage than bipolar mapping and classified less points as low voltage (PerAF: 32.90% vs 43.40%; PAF: 19.20% vs 25.60%) and scar (PerAF: 7.72% vs 12.10%; PAF: 4.03% vs 6.07%) (all P < 0.0001). Omnipolar Vmax displayed significant disagreement with bipolar by Bland-Altman analysis. Scar and low-voltage approximations were validated in atria with known scar, in which bipolar mapping overestimated the extent of low voltage (P < 0.0001) and scar (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Omnipolar mapping identifies higher voltage and has greater specificity for the detection of low voltage and scar than conventional bipolar mapping in patients with PerAF or PAF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maham F Karatela
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Robert S Dowell
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Abbott, St Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Daniel Friedman
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kevin P Jackson
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jonathan P Piccini
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Section, Division of Cardiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
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9
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Delgado-López M, Heeger CH, Tilz RR. [New mapping tools for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation]. Herzschrittmacherther Elektrophysiol 2022; 33:380-385. [PMID: 36239817 DOI: 10.1007/s00399-022-00902-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The pulmonary veins have been recognized as the primary source of atrial triggers, and their isolation has become the cornerstone for ablation of atrial fibrillation. However, long-term success rates after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) are limited. Several promising new mapping techniques are described in this article, aiming to better understand the mechanisms underlying the induction and maintenance of atrial fibrillation and to develop more effective ablation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryuri Delgado-López
- Klinik für Rhythmologie, Universitäres Herzzentrum Lübeck, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Deutschland.
| | - Christian-Hendrik Heeger
- Klinik für Rhythmologie, Universitäres Herzzentrum Lübeck, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Deutschland
- Partner Site Lübeck, Deutsches Zentrum für Herzkreislaufforschung e. V. (DZHK), Lübeck, Deutschland
| | - Roland Richard Tilz
- Klinik für Rhythmologie, Universitäres Herzzentrum Lübeck, Universitätsklinikum Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538, Lübeck, Deutschland
- Partner Site Lübeck, Deutsches Zentrum für Herzkreislaufforschung e. V. (DZHK), Lübeck, Deutschland
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10
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Takigawa M, Goya M, Ikenouchi T, Shimizu Y, Amemiya M, Kamata T, Nishimura T, Tao S, Takahashi Y, Miyazaki S, Sasano T. Confirmation of the achievement of linear lesions using "activation vectors" based on omnipolar technology. Heart Rhythm 2022; 19:1792-1801. [PMID: 35961492 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although differential pacing conventionally has been used to confirm the achievement of block across linear lesion sets, high-resolution mapping demonstrates that pseudo-block is observed in 20%-30% of cases. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to examine the reliability and versatility of a method using "activation vectors" based on omnipolar technology to confirm the block line. METHODS Linear ablation was performed during pacing, with the HD Grid catheter (Abbott) placed beside the linear lesion opposite the pacing site. The endpoint of complete linear lesion was complete inversion of the activation vectors to the opposite direction. When inversion of the activation vectors was not observed after 10 minutes of radiofrequency (RF) application, high-resolution mapping was performed to assess whether complete block was achieved. RESULTS In 33 patients, 24 cavotricuspid isthmus lines, 11 mitral isthmus (MI) lines, 16 posterior lines, and 2 intercaval lines were performed using this method. Of the total of 53 lines, 10 (18.9%) required intermediate evaluation of the block line with high-resolution mapping because of the absence of inversion of activation vectors despite 10 minutes of RF application, resulting in incomplete block with endocardial gaps or epicardial conductions. Additional RF applications finally achieved inversion in direction of activation vectors in the 10 lines. In total, the present method can diagnose achievement of complete block line with 100% accuracy, whereas conventional differential pacing misdiagnosed incomplete block with epicardial conduction in posterior lines in 3 cases and in MI lines in 2 cases. CONCLUSION Confirmation of complete linear lesions using "activation vectors" based on omnipolar technology is a reliable and versatile method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masateru Takigawa
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Masahiko Goya
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Ikenouchi
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Shimizu
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Miki Amemiya
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tatsuaki Kamata
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takuro Nishimura
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Susumu Tao
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihide Takahashi
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Miyazaki
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuo Sasano
- Department of Cardiology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
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11
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Van Schie MS, Knops P, Zhang L, Van Schaagen FRN, Taverne YJHJ, De Groot NMS. Detection of endo-epicardial atrial low-voltage areas using unipolar and omnipolar voltage mapping. Front Physiol 2022; 13:1030025. [PMID: 36277177 PMCID: PMC9582746 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.1030025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Low-voltage areas (LVA) can be located exclusively at either the endocardium or epicardium. This has only been demonstrated for bipolar voltages, but the value of unipolar and omnipolar voltages recorded from either the endocardium and epicardium in predicting LVAs at the opposite layer remains unknown. The goal of this study was therefore to compare simultaneously recorded endo-epicardial unipolar and omnipolar potentials and to determine whether their voltage characteristics are predictive for opposite LVAs.Methods: Intra-operative simultaneous endo-epicardial mapping (256 electrodes, interelectrode distances 2 mm) was performed during sinus rhythm at the right atrium in 93 patients (67 ± 9 years, 73 male). Cliques of four electrodes (2 × 2 mm) were used to define maximal omnipolar (Vomni,max) and unipolar (Vuni,max) voltages. LVAs were defined as Vomni,max ≤0.5 mV or Vuni,max ≤1.0 mV.Results: The majority of both unipolar and omnipolar LVAs were located at only the endocardium (74.2% and 82.0% respectively) or epicardium (52.7% and 47.6% respectively). Of the endocardial unipolar LVAs, 25.8% were also located at the opposite layer and 47.3% vice-versa. In omnipolar LVAs, 18.0% of the endocardial LVAs were also located at the epicardium and 52.4% vice-versa. The combination of epicardial Vuni,max and Vomni,max was most accurate in identifying dual-layer LVAs (50.4%).Conclusion: Unipolar and omnipolar LVAs are frequently located exclusively at either the endocardium or epicardium. Endo-epicardial LVAs are most accurately identified using combined epicardial unipolar and omnipolar voltages. Therefore, a combined endo-epicardial unipolar and omnipolar mapping approach is favoured as it may be more indicative of possible arrhythmogenic substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Knops
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Natasja M. S. De Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Natasja M. S. De Groot,
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12
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van Schie MS, de Groot NMS. Clinical Relevance of Sinus Rhythm Mapping to Quantify Electropathology Related to Atrial Fibrillation. Arrhythm Electrophysiol Rev 2022; 11:e11. [PMID: 35846426 PMCID: PMC9277615 DOI: 10.15420/aer.2022.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Progression of AF is accompanied by structural and electrical remodelling, resulting in complex electrical conduction disorders. This is defined as electropathology and it increases with the progression of AF. The severity of electropathology, thus, defines the stage of AF and is a major determinant of effectiveness of AF therapy. As specific features of AF-related electropathology are still unknown, it is essential to first quantify the electrophysiological properties of atrial tissue and then to examine the inter- and intra-individual variation during normal sinus rhythm. Comparison of these parameters between patients with and without a history of AF unravels quantified electrophysiological features that are specific to AF patients. This can help to identify patients at risk for early onset or progression of AF. This review summarises current knowledge on quantified features of atrial electrophysiological properties during sinus rhythm and discusses its relevance in identifying AF-related electropathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathijs S van Schie
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Natasja MS de Groot
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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13
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S. Ramos K, Pool L, van Schie MS, Wijdeveld LFJM, van der Does WFB, Baks L, Sultan HMD, van Wijk SW, Bogers AJJC, Verheule S, de Groot NMS, Brundel BJJM. Degree of Fibrosis in Human Atrial Tissue Is Not the Hallmark Driving AF. Cells 2022; 11:cells11030427. [PMID: 35159236 PMCID: PMC8834228 DOI: 10.3390/cells11030427] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The current paradigm is that fibrosis promotes electrophysiological disorders and drives atrial fibrillation (AF). In this current study, we investigated the relation between the degree of fibrosis in human atrial tissue samples of controls and patients in various stages of AF and the degree of electrophysiological abnormalities. Methods: The degree of fibrosis was measured in the atrial tissue and serum of patients in various stages of AF and the controls. Hereto, picrosirius and H&E staining were performed to quantify degree of total, endo-perimysial fibrosis, and cardiomyocyte diameter. Western blot quantified fibrosis markers: neural cell adhesion molecule, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase, lysyl oxidase, and α-smooth muscle actin. In serum, the ratio carboxyl-terminal telopeptide of collagen/matrix-metalloproteinase1 was determined. High-resolution epicardial mapping evaluated low-voltage areas and conduction abnormalities. Results: No significant differences were observed in the degree of fibrosis between the groups. Finally, no significant correlation—absolute nor spatial—was observed between all electrophysiological parameters and histological fibrosis markers. Conclusions: No differences in the degree of fibrosis were observed in patients from various stages of AF compared to the controls. Moreover, electrophysiological abnormalities did not correlate with any of the fibrosis markers. The findings indicate that fibrosis is not the hallmark of structural remodeling in AF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kennedy S. Ramos
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.P.); (L.F.J.M.W.); (L.B.); (H.M.D.S.); (S.W.v.W.)
- Department Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (M.S.v.S.); (W.F.B.v.d.D.); (N.M.S.d.G.)
- Correspondence: (K.S.R.); (B.J.J.M.B.)
| | - Lisa Pool
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.P.); (L.F.J.M.W.); (L.B.); (H.M.D.S.); (S.W.v.W.)
- Department Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (M.S.v.S.); (W.F.B.v.d.D.); (N.M.S.d.G.)
| | - Mathijs S. van Schie
- Department Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (M.S.v.S.); (W.F.B.v.d.D.); (N.M.S.d.G.)
| | - Leonoor F. J. M. Wijdeveld
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.P.); (L.F.J.M.W.); (L.B.); (H.M.D.S.); (S.W.v.W.)
| | - Willemijn F. B. van der Does
- Department Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (M.S.v.S.); (W.F.B.v.d.D.); (N.M.S.d.G.)
| | - Luciënne Baks
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.P.); (L.F.J.M.W.); (L.B.); (H.M.D.S.); (S.W.v.W.)
| | - H. M. Danish Sultan
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.P.); (L.F.J.M.W.); (L.B.); (H.M.D.S.); (S.W.v.W.)
| | - Stan W. van Wijk
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.P.); (L.F.J.M.W.); (L.B.); (H.M.D.S.); (S.W.v.W.)
| | - Ad J. J. C. Bogers
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands;
| | - Sander Verheule
- Department of Physiology, University Maastricht, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands;
| | - Natasja M. S. de Groot
- Department Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GD Rotterdam, The Netherlands; (M.S.v.S.); (W.F.B.v.d.D.); (N.M.S.d.G.)
| | - Bianca J. J. M. Brundel
- Department of Physiology, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands; (L.P.); (L.F.J.M.W.); (L.B.); (H.M.D.S.); (S.W.v.W.)
- Correspondence: (K.S.R.); (B.J.J.M.B.)
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14
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Kimura M. Proper Threshold of Low Voltage and Reduced Conduction Velocity in Atrial Fibrillation. Circ J 2022; 86:200-201. [PMID: 34937826 DOI: 10.1253/circj.cj-21-0975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Masaomi Kimura
- Department of Cardiology, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine
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15
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Kharbanda RK, van Schie MS, Ramdat Misier NL, Wesselius FJ, Zwijnenburg RD, van Leeuwen WJ, van de Woestijne PC, de Jong PL, Bogers AJJC, Taverne YJHJ, de Groot NMS. In-vivo Sino-Atrial Node Mapping in Children and Adults With Congenital Heart Disease. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:896825. [PMID: 35844762 PMCID: PMC9283725 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.896825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sinus node dysfunction (SND) and atrial tachyarrhythmias frequently co-exist in the aging patient with congenital heart disease (CHD), even after surgical correction early in life. We examined differences in electrophysiological properties of the sino-atrial node (SAN) area between pediatric and adult patients with CHD. METHODS Epicardial mapping of the SAN was performed during sinus rhythm in 12 pediatric (0.6 [0.4-2.4] years) and 15 adult (47 [40-55] years) patients. Unipolar potentials were classified as single-, short or long double- and fractionated potentials. Unipolar voltage, relative R-to-S-amplitude ratio and duration of all potentials was calculated. Conduction velocity (CV) and the amount of conduction block (CB) was calculated. RESULTS SAN activity in pediatric patients was solely observed near the junction of the superior caval vein and the right atrium, while in adults SAN activity was observed even up to the middle part of the right atrium. Compared to pediatric patients, the SAN region of adults was characterized by lower CV, lower voltages, more CB and a higher degree of fractionation. At the earliest site of activation, single potentials from pediatrics consisted of broad monophasic S-waves with high amplitudes, while adults had smaller rS-potentials with longer duration which were more often fractionated. CONCLUSIONS Compared to pediatric patients, adults with uncorrected CHD have more inhomogeneous conduction and variations in preferential SAN exit site, which are presumable caused by aging related remodeling. Long-term follow-up of these patients is essential to demonstrate whether these changes are related to development of SND and also atrial tachyarrhythmias early in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohit K Kharbanda
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Fons J Wesselius
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Roxanne D Zwijnenburg
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Wouter J van Leeuwen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Peter L de Jong
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ad J J C Bogers
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Yannick J H J Taverne
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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