1
|
Springhetti P, Tomaselli M, Benfari G, Milazzo S, Ciceri L, Penso M, Pilan M, Clement A, Rota A, Del Sole PA, Nistri S, Muraru D, Ribichini F, Badano L. Peak atrial longitudinal strain and risk stratification in moderate and severe aortic stenosis. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2024; 25:947-957. [PMID: 38319610 DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeae040] [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: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
AIMS We sought to investigate the association of left atrial strain with the outcome in a large cohort of patients with at least moderate aortic stenosis (AS). METHODS AND RESULTS We analysed 467 patients (mean age 80.6 ± 8.2 years; 51% men) with at least moderate AS and sinus rhythm. The primary study endpoint was the composite of all-cause mortality and hospitalizations for heart failure. After a median follow-up of 19.2 (inter-quartile range 12.5-24.4) months, 96 events occurred. Using the receiver operator characteristic curve analysis, the cut-off value of peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) more strongly associated with outcome was <16% {area under the curve (AUC) 0.70 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.63-0.78], P < 0.001}. The Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated a higher rate of events for patients with PALS < 16% (log-rank P < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, PALS [adjusted HR (aHR) 0.95 (95% CI 0.91-0.99), P = 0.017] and age were the only variables independently associated with the combined endpoint. PALS provided incremental prognostic value over left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain, LV ejection fraction, and right ventricular function. Subgroup analysis revealed that impaired PALS was also independently associated with outcome in the subgroups of paucisymptomatic patients [aHR 0.98 (95% CI 0.97-0.98), P = 0.048], moderate AS [aHR 0.92, (95% CI 0.86-0.98), P = 0.016], and low-flow AS [aHR 0.90 (95% CI 0.83-0.98), P = 0.020]. CONCLUSION In our patients with at least moderate AS, PALS was independently associated with outcome. In asymptomatic patients, PALS could be a potential marker of sub-clinical damage, leading to better risk stratification and, potentially, earlier treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Springhetti
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Michele Tomaselli
- Department of Cardiology, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Giovanni Benfari
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Salvatore Milazzo
- Division of Cardiology, University Hospital Paolo Giaccone, Palermo, Italy
| | - Luca Ciceri
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Marco Penso
- Department of Cardiology, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Pilan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Alexandra Clement
- Internal Medicine Department, 'Grigore T. Popa' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
| | - Alessandra Rota
- Department of Cardiology, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Alberto Del Sole
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | | | - Denisa Muraru
- Department of Cardiology, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Flavio Ribichini
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Verona, Piazzale Aristide Stefani 1, 37100 Verona, Italy
| | - Luigi Badano
- Department of Cardiology, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lacy SC, Thomas JD, Syed MA, Kinno M. Prognostic value of left atrial strain in aortic stenosis: A systematic review. Echocardiography 2024; 41:e15829. [PMID: 38787527 DOI: 10.1111/echo.15829] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Aortic stenosis (AS) is a common valvular heart disease with high morbidity and mortality. Recently, the association between peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) and AS clinical outcomes has been identified. This systematic review evaluates the prognostic value of PALS for adverse events in AS. METHODS We performed a systematic literature review to identify clinical studies that evaluated Speckle-Tracking Echocardiography (STE)-derived PALS to predict adverse outcomes in patients with AS. We excluded studies that compared echocardiography to computed tomography and studies that focused on diseases other than AS. RESULTS We included 18 studies reporting on 2660 patients. Patients with symptomatic AS had decreased PALS when compared to patients with asymptomatic AS. Patients with AS who had adverse events had decreased PALS when compared to patients with AS with no events. Each unit increase of PALS was independently associated with decreased risk for the primary endpoint. PALS cut-off values were associated with increased risk for the primary endpoint. CONCLUSION This systematic review suggests PALS as an independent predictor for cardiovascular events in patients with AS and highlights the importance of evaluating LA mechanics for AS prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Spencer C Lacy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - James D Thomas
- Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Mushabbar A Syed
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| | - Menhel Kinno
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Anwar AM. Incremental diagnostic and prognostic utility of left atrial deformation in heart failure using speckle tracking echocardiography. Heart Fail Rev 2024; 29:713-727. [PMID: 38466374 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-024-10392-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] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
Left atrium (LA) is a very important component of cardiovascular performance. The assessment of LA function has gathered the interest with expanding research supporting the utility as a biomarker for outcomes in heart failure (HF). Echocardiography is the main imaging modality which helps in a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the LA size and function. Recent advances in probe technology and software analysis have provided a better understanding of LA anatomy, physiology, pathology, and function. A variety of parameters have been defined as markers of LA function but there is no single parameter that best defines LA function. Speckle tracking echocardiography-derived analysis of LA deformation provides a window on all phases of LA function (reservoir, conduit, and booster pump). There is accumulative published data that supported the diagnostic and prognostic values of LA deformation integration during echo assessment of LA in HF. This review article summarized the clinical utility of LA deformation that may help in prediction, diagnosis, categorization, risk stratification, and guiding the proper selection of therapy in HF patients in daily practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf M Anwar
- Department of Cardiology, King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, P.O. Box: 9862, Jeddah, 21159, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Anwar AM. Potential Diagnostic and Prognostic Values of Left Atrial Strain in Valvular Heart Disease. J Cardiovasc Echogr 2024; 34:41-49. [PMID: 39086705 PMCID: PMC11288298 DOI: 10.4103/jcecho.jcecho_9_24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
There has been increasing evidence supporting the importance of left atrial (LA) functional analysis and measurement in various physiologic and pathologic cardiovascular conditions due to its high diagnostic and prognostic values. Assessment of LA strain (LAS) has emerged as an early marker of subclinical LA dysfunction. Using speckle-tracking echocardiography, LAS can be measured in all phases of LA function (reservoir, conduit, and booster pump). In valvular heart disease (VHD), surgical and nonsurgical interventions should be performed before irreversible left ventricular (LV) and/or LA myocardial dysfunction. The current guidelines recommended using LV strain as a parameter for early detection and timely intervention. Currently, many published data have shown the diagnostic and prognostic values of LAS in VHD, which is encouraging to integrate LAS during echo assessment. In this review, we aim to collect the current data about the clinical utility of LAS changes in risk stratification, predicting outcome, and guiding the time of intervention in VHD. The review summarized these data according to the type of valve pathologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Mohammed Anwar
- Department of Cardiology, King Fahad Armed Forces Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Winkler NE, Anwer S, Rumpf PM, Tsiourantani G, Donati TG, Michel JM, Kasel AM, Tanner FC. Left atrial pump strain predicts long-term survival after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Int J Cardiol 2024; 395:131403. [PMID: 37777072 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2023.131403] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aims at investigating left atrial (LA) deformation by left atrial reservoir (LARS) and pump strain (LAPS) and its implications for long-term survival in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). METHODS Speckle tracking echocardiography was performed in 198 patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI. Association of strain parameters with cardiovascular mortality was determined. RESULTS Over a follow-up time of 5 years, 49 patients (24.7%) died. LAPS was more impaired in non-survivors than survivors (P = 0.010), whereas no difference was found for LARS (P = 0.114), LA ejection fraction (P = 0.241), and LA volume index (P = 0.292). Kaplan-Meier analyses yielded a reduced survival probability according to the optimal threshold for LAPS (P = 0.002). A more impaired LAPS was associated with increased mortality risk (HR 1.12 [95% CI 1.02-1.22]; P = 0.014) independent of LVEF, LAVI, age, and sex. Addition of LAPS improved multivariable echocardiographic (LVEF, LAVI) and clinical (age, sex) models with potential incremental value for mortality prediction (P = 0.013 and P = 0.031, respectively). In contrast, LARS and LAVI were not associated with mortality. CONCLUSIONS In patients undergoing aortic valve replacement for severe AS, LAPS was impaired in patients dying during long-term follow-up after TAVI, differentiated survivors from non-survivors, was independently associated with long-term mortality, and yielded potential incremental value for survival prediction after TAVI. LAPS seems useful for risk stratification in severe AS and timely valve replacement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N E Winkler
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - S Anwer
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - P M Rumpf
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Kardiologische Gemeinschaftspraxis, Penzberg, Germany
| | - G Tsiourantani
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - T G Donati
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - J M Michel
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - A M Kasel
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - F C Tanner
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Holste G, Oikonomou EK, Mortazavi BJ, Coppi A, Faridi KF, Miller EJ, Forrest JK, McNamara RL, Ohno-Machado L, Yuan N, Gupta A, Ouyang D, Krumholz HM, Wang Z, Khera R. Severe aortic stenosis detection by deep learning applied to echocardiography. Eur Heart J 2023; 44:4592-4604. [PMID: 37611002 PMCID: PMC11004929 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehad456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Early diagnosis of aortic stenosis (AS) is critical to prevent morbidity and mortality but requires skilled examination with Doppler imaging. This study reports the development and validation of a novel deep learning model that relies on two-dimensional (2D) parasternal long axis videos from transthoracic echocardiography without Doppler imaging to identify severe AS, suitable for point-of-care ultrasonography. METHODS AND RESULTS In a training set of 5257 studies (17 570 videos) from 2016 to 2020 [Yale-New Haven Hospital (YNHH), Connecticut], an ensemble of three-dimensional convolutional neural networks was developed to detect severe AS, leveraging self-supervised contrastive pretraining for label-efficient model development. This deep learning model was validated in a temporally distinct set of 2040 consecutive studies from 2021 from YNHH as well as two geographically distinct cohorts of 4226 and 3072 studies, from California and other hospitals in New England, respectively. The deep learning model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.978 (95% CI: 0.966, 0.988) for detecting severe AS in the temporally distinct test set, maintaining its diagnostic performance in geographically distinct cohorts [0.952 AUROC (95% CI: 0.941, 0.963) in California and 0.942 AUROC (95% CI: 0.909, 0.966) in New England]. The model was interpretable with saliency maps identifying the aortic valve, mitral annulus, and left atrium as the predictive regions. Among non-severe AS cases, predicted probabilities were associated with worse quantitative metrics of AS suggesting an association with various stages of AS severity. CONCLUSION This study developed and externally validated an automated approach for severe AS detection using single-view 2D echocardiography, with potential utility for point-of-care screening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Holste
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
| | - Evangelos K Oikonomou
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
| | - Bobak J Mortazavi
- Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale-New Haven Hospital, 195 Church St 5th Floor, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Andreas Coppi
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale-New Haven Hospital, 195 Church St 5th Floor, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Kamil F Faridi
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
| | - Edward J Miller
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
| | - John K Forrest
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
| | - Robert L McNamara
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
| | - Lucila Ohno-Machado
- Section of Biomedical Informatics and Data Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Neal Yuan
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Division of Cardiology, San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aakriti Gupta
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David Ouyang
- Department of Cardiology, Smidt Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Harlan M Krumholz
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale-New Haven Hospital, 195 Church St 5th Floor, New Haven, CT, USA
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Zhangyang Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, USA
| | - Rohan Khera
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8056, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale-New Haven Hospital, 195 Church St 5th Floor, New Haven, CT, USA
- Section of Biomedical Informatics and Data Science, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Section of Health Informatics, Department of Biostatistics, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College St, New Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Gui HY, Liu SW, Zhu DF. Interaction between the left ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricular strain and its relationship with coronary stenosis. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:2246-2253. [PMID: 37122522 PMCID: PMC10131022 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i10.2246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronary artery stenosis (CAS) is the most common type of heart disease and the leading cause of death in both men and women globally. CAS occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscle harden and become narrower due to plaque buildup - cholesterol and other material - on their inner walls. As a result, the heart muscle cannot receive the blood or oxygen it needs. Most heart attacks happen when a blood clot suddenly cuts off the hearts' blood supply, causing permanent heart damage.
AIM To analyze the relationship between the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular strain (LVS), and coronary stenosis.
METHODS A total of 190 participants were enrolled in this trail. The control group comprised 93 healthy individuals, and observation group comprised 97 patients with coronary heart disease who were hospitalized between July 2020 and September 2021. Coronary lesions were assessed using the Gensini score, and the LVEF and LVS were measured using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The interaction between the LVEF and LVS was examined using a linear regression model. The relationship between LVEF and coronary stenosis was examined using Spearman’s correlation.
RESULTS The LVEF of the observation group was lower than that of the control group. The left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) and left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) of the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05). The longitudinal and circumferential strains (LS, CS) of the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group; however, the radial strain (RS) of the observation group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P < 0.05). LVS, LS, and CS were significantly negatively correlated with the LVEF, and RS was positively correlated with the LVEF. There were significant differences in the LVEF, LVESV, and LVEDV of patients with different Gensini scores; the LVEF significantly decreased and the LVESV and LVEDV increased with increasing Gensini scores (P < 0.05). In the observation group, the LVEF was negatively correlated and the LVESV and LVEDV were positively correlated with coronary stenosis (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION The LVEF measured using MRI is significantly linearly correlated with LVS and negatively correlated with coronary stenosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yan Gui
- MRI Room, Harbin No. 4 Hospital, Harbin 150026, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Shu-Wen Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Harbin No. 4 Hospital, Harbin 150026, Heilongjiang Province, China
| | - Dong-Fang Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Harbin No. 4 Hospital, Harbin 150026, Heilongjiang Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Prognostic Value of Left Atrial Strain in Aortic Stenosis: A Competing Risk Analysis. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2023; 36:29-37.e5. [PMID: 36441088 DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2022.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of left atrial (LA) strain as an imaging biomarker in aortic stenosis is not well established. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic performance of phasic LA strain in relation to clinical and echocardiographic variables and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide in asymptomatic and minimally symptomatic patients with moderate to severe aortic stenosis and left ventricular ejection fraction > 50%. METHODS LA reservoir strain (LASr), LA conduit strain (LAScd), and LA contractile strain (LASct) were measured using speckle-tracking echocardiography. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality, heart failure hospitalization, progression to New York Heart Association functional class III or IV, acute coronary syndrome, or syncope. Secondary outcomes 1 and 2 comprised the same end points but excluded acute coronary syndrome and additionally syncope, respectively. The prognostic performance of phasic LA strain cutoffs was evaluated in competing risk analyses, aortic valve replacement being the competing risk. RESULTS Among 173 patients (mean age, 69 ± 11 years; mean peak transaortic velocity, 4.0 ± 0.8 m/sec), median LASr, LAScd, and LASct were 27% (interquartile range [IQR], 22%-32%), 12% (IQR, 8%-15%), and 16% (IQR, 13%-18%), respectively. Over a median of 2.7 years (IQR, 1.4-4.6 years), the primary outcome and secondary outcomes 1 and 2 occurred in 66 (38%), 62 (36%), and 59 (34%) patients, respectively. LASr < 20%, LAScd < 6%, and LASct < 12% were identified as optimal cutoffs of the primary outcome. In competing risk analyses, progressing from echocardiographic to echocardiographic-clinical and combined models incorporating N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, LA strain parameters outperformed other key echocardiographic variables and significantly predicted clinical outcomes. LASr < 20% was associated with the primary outcome and secondary outcome 1, LAScd < 6% with all clinical outcomes, and LASct < 12% with secondary outcome 2. LAScd < 6% had the highest specificity (95%) and positive predictive value (82%) for the primary outcome, and competing risk models incorporating LAScd < 6% had the best discriminative value. CONCLUSIONS In well-compensated patients with moderate to severe aortic stenosis and preserved left ventricular ejection fractions, LA strain was superior to other echocardiographic indices and incremental to N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide for risk stratification. LAScd < 6%, LASr < 20%, and LASct < 12% identified patients at higher risk for adverse outcomes.
Collapse
|
9
|
Shamekhi J, Nguyen TQA, Sigel H, Maier O, Piayda K, Zeus T, Al-Kassou B, Weber M, Zimmer S, Sugiura A, Wilde N, Kelm M, Nickenig G, Veulemans V, Sedaghat A. Left atrial function index (LAFI) and outcome in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Clin Res Cardiol 2022; 111:944-954. [PMID: 35320406 PMCID: PMC9334426 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-022-02010-5] [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: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background Clinical data regarding the association between the left atrial function index (LAFI) and outcome in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) are limited. Objectives We aimed to investigate the association between the left atrial function index (LAFI) and outcome in patients undergoing TAVR. Methods In this retrospective multicenter study, we assessed baseline LAFI in 733 patients undergoing TAVR for severe aortic stenosis in two German high-volume centers between 2008 and 2019. Based on receiver operating characteristic curves, patients were stratified according to their baseline LAFI into two groups (LAFI ≤ 13.5 vs. LAFI > 13.5) and assessed for post-procedural outcome. The primary endpoint of our study was the 1-year all-cause mortality. Results Patients with a LAFI ≤ 13.5 had significantly more often atrial fibrillation (p < 0.001), lower LVEF (p < 0.001) and higher levels of NT-proBNP (p < 0.001). After TAVR, a significant improvement in the LAFI as compared to baseline was observed at 12 months after the procedure (28.4 vs. 32.9; p = 0.001). Compared to patients with a LAFI > 13.5, those with a LAFI ≤ 13.5 showed significantly higher rate of 1-year mortality (7.9% vs. 4.0%; p = 0.03). A lower LAFI has been identified as independent predictor of mortality in multivariate analysis (HR (95% CI) 2.0 (1.1–3.9); p = 0.03). Conclusion A reduced LAFI is associated with adverse outcome and an independent predictor of mortality in TAVR patients. TAVR improves LAFI within 12 months after the procedure. Graphical abstract Left Atrial Function Index (LAFI) in Patients undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation. A Kaplan–Meier survival analysis of 1-year all-cause mortality in patients with LAFI ≤ 13.5 compared with patients with LAFI > 13.5. Comparing rates of 1-year all-cause mortality between the different LAFI groups, we found a significant association between left atrial function and mortality. LAFI Left atrial function index. B Comparison of the mean LAFI before and after TAVR. After long-term follow-up the LAFI improved significantly. LAFI Left atrial function index; FU follow-up. C Assessment of the left atrial function index using the pre-procedural transthoracic echocardiography. A Measurement of the minimal left atrial volume (LAEDV). B Assessment of the maximal left atrial volume (LAESV). ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00392-022-02010-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Shamekhi
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Thi Quynh Anh Nguyen
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Helen Sigel
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Oliver Maier
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kerstin Piayda
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tobias Zeus
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Baravan Al-Kassou
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Marcel Weber
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Sebastian Zimmer
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Atsushi Sugiura
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Nihal Wilde
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Malte Kelm
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Georg Nickenig
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Verena Veulemans
- Heart Center, Department of Cardiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexander Sedaghat
- Heart Center Bonn, Department of Medicine II, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127, Bonn, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Katogiannis K, Makavos G, Tsilivarakis D, Plotas P, Lambadiari V, Parissis J, Noutsias M, Ikonomidis I. Left atrial deformation in heart failure: a clinical update. Curr Probl Cardiol 2022:101183. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2022.101183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
11
|
Asami M, Dobner S, Stortecky S, Heg D, Praz F, Lanz J, Okuno T, Tomii D, Reineke D, Windecker S, Pilgrim T. Cardiovascular outcomes in patients with left atrial enlargement undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2022; 99:1908-1917. [PMID: 35170846 PMCID: PMC9546325 DOI: 10.1002/ccd.30132] [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: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Increased left ventricular afterload resulting from severe aortic stenosis (AS) leads to progressive cardiac remodeling. Left atrial enlargement (LAE) is an early manifestation in a series of maladaptive changes and may affect clinical outcomes after valvular replacement therapy. The aim of this study is to determine the impact of LAE on clinical outcomes in symptomatic patients with severe AS undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Methods In a prospective single‐center TAVI registry, we analyzed LA dimensions measured by echocardiography before intervention. Patients with atrial fibrillation or concomitant mitral valve disease were excluded. LAE was defined as indexed LA volume >34 ml/m2. The primary endpoint was cardiovascular death (CVD) at 1 year. Results Among 1663 patients undergoing TAVI between August 2007 and December 2016, 768 (46.2%) were eligible for the present analysis and 486 patients had LAE. The prevalence of LAE was higher in males (68.3%) as compared to females (58.8%). Patients with LAE were older (82.3 ± 6.7 years vs. 80.0 ± 6.4 years) and had a higher STS‐PROM score (6.1 ± 4.7% vs. 4.7 ± 2.9%). After adjustment, patients with LAE had an increased risk of CVD at 1‐year compared to patients with normal LA dimensions (49 [10.4%] vs. 8 [2.9%]; HRadj, 3.52; 95% CI, 1.66–7.44)]. In multivariable analysis, LAE was independently associated with an increased risk of CVD at 1‐year (HRadj, 3.52; 95% CI, 1.66–7.44). Conclusions LAE secondary to AS was documented in a significant proportion of patients undergoing TAVI and was associated with a more than threefold increased risk of CVD at 1‐year.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Masahiko Asami
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Dobner
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Stortecky
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dik Heg
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine and Clinical Trials Unit, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Fabien Praz
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Lanz
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Taishi Okuno
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Daijiro Tomii
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - David Reineke
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stephan Windecker
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Pilgrim
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bandera F, Mollo A, Frigelli M, Guglielmi G, Ventrella N, Pastore MC, Cameli M, Guazzi M. Cardiac Imaging for the Assessment of Left Atrial Mechanics Across Heart Failure Stages. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 8:750139. [PMID: 35096989 PMCID: PMC8792604 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.750139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The left atrium (LA) is emerging as a key element in the pathophysiology of several cardiac diseases due to having an active role in contrasting heart failure (HF) progression. Its morphological and functional remodeling occurs progressively according to pressure or volume overload generated by the underlying disease, and its ability of adaptation contributes to avoid pulmonary circulation congestion and to postpone HF symptoms. Moreover, early signs of LA dysfunction can anticipate and predict the clinical course of HF diseases before the symptom onset which, particularly, also applies to patients with increased risk of HF with still normal cardiac structure (stage A HF). The study of LA mechanics (chamber morphology and function) is moving from a research interest to a clinical application thanks to a great clinical, prognostic, and pathophysiological significance. This process is promoted by the technological progress of cardiac imaging which increases the availability of easy-to-use tools for clinicians and HF specialists. Two-dimensional (2D) speckle tracking echocardiography and feature tracking cardiac magnetic resonance are becoming essential for daily practice. In this context, a deep understanding of LA mechanics, its prognostic significance, and the available approaches are essential to improve clinical practice. The present review will focus on LA mechanics, discussing atrial physiology and pathophysiology of main cardiac diseases across the HF stages with specific attention to the prognostic significance. Imaging techniques for LA mechanics assessment will be discussed with an overlook on the dynamic (under stress) evaluation of the chamber.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bandera
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
- Cardiology University Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Anita Mollo
- Cardiology University Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Frigelli
- Cardiology University Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Guglielmi
- Cardiology University Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Ventrella
- Cardiology University Department, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Matteo Cameli
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Guazzi
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Milano, Milan, Italy
- Cardiology Division, San Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Carpenito M, Fanti D, Mega S, Benfari G, Bono MC, Rossi A, Ribichini FL, Grigioni F. The Central Role of Left Atrium in Heart Failure. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:704762. [PMID: 34485406 PMCID: PMC8414134 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.704762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In past cardiovascular medicine, the attention to the left ventricle-identified as the only indicator and determinant of healthy or unhealthy cardiac conditions- has systematically hidden the role of the left atrium (LA). The recent advances in cardiovascular imaging have provided a better understanding of LA anatomy, physiology, and pathology, making us realize that this functional structure is far from being an innocent spectator. We now know that the LA's mechanical and neuro-hormonal properties play a relevant part in several cardiovascular diseases, including atrial fibrillation, ischemic heart disease, valvular heart disease, and heart failure. The present review aims to describe the role of LA in the specific setting of heart failure. We provide currently available information on LA structure and function and summarize its role as a determinant of symptoms, prognosis, and potential therapeutic target in heart failure patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Myriam Carpenito
- Unit of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Diego Fanti
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Simona Mega
- Unit of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Benfari
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Maria Caterina Bono
- Unit of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Rossi
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Grigioni
- Unit of Cardiac Sciences, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zheng R, Kusunose K. Review: application of current imaging modalities in the management of left-sided valvular heart disease. Cardiovasc Diagn Ther 2021; 11:793-803. [PMID: 34295706 DOI: 10.21037/cdt.2020.02.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
In terms of valvular heart disease (VHD) imaging, transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the preferred first choice because of its widespread availability. Other modalities, such as transesophageal echocardiography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, have played a supplementary role in diagnosis for severity, deciding the timing/type of treatment, detection of post procedural complications, and prognostic predictions. However, there are few consensuses on how to employ these modalities, as the evidence is not extensive as that for TTE. On the other hand, these imaging modalities also have their own unique strengths. If employed properly, these modalities have the potential to play a more prominent role in clinical decision making. In this review, we focus on the potential, limitations and application of current imaging modalities in the management of left-sided VHD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Zheng
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kenya Kusunose
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tokushima University Hospital, Tokushima, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Carlos T, Freitas AA, Alves PM, Martins R, Gonçalves L. Aortic strain in bicuspid aortic valve: an analysis. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2021; 37:2399-2408. [PMID: 33818697 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-021-02215-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is monitored by transthoracic echocardiography and computed tomography (CT) angiography. However, it does not have any early marker of disease progression. This study evaluated speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) aortic and left ventricular (LV) strain prognostic values, their discriminative power, and their correlation with the degree of valvular regurgitation. We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospectively enrolled cohort of 45 diagnosed with BAV and 20 gender and age matched controls. We performed 2D-STE aortic and LV strain analysis of the selected population. The cohort was followed-up during a median period of 19.9 months (IQR 12.9-25.2), and outcomes (hospital admission for heart failure (HF), aortic valve replacement (AVR), and death) were determined. The mean patient age was 46.6 ± 15.5 years and 80 % were male. LV indexed volumes and aortic diameter were higher in BAV patients. LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) was impaired (p < 0.001) and aortic GLS was significantly augmented (p = 0.027) in BAV patients. Aortic global circumferential strain (GCS) did not vary between groups. Aortic diameter was the best parameter related to BAV (AUC 0.92) and aortic GLS was best correlated with significant AR (AUC 0.76). AVR was the only outcome observed and its only predictor was indexed LV end-diastolic volume. BAV had impaired LV-GLS values. Aortic GLS was abnormally augmented in BAV patients, which might reflect higher aortic diameters that distorted strain calculations. STE aortic strain is related to AR but does not appear to be a reliable predictor of surgery in BAV patients, at 19 months.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomás Carlos
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - André Azul Freitas
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Cardiology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Mota Pinto, Coimbra, 3000-001, Portugal
| | - Patrícia Marques Alves
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal. .,Department of Cardiology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Mota Pinto, Coimbra, 3000-001, Portugal.
| | - Rui Martins
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Cardiology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Mota Pinto, Coimbra, 3000-001, Portugal
| | - Lino Gonçalves
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,Department of Cardiology, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Mota Pinto, Coimbra, 3000-001, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Li X, Garcia-Elias A, Benito B, Nattel S. The effects of cardiac stretch on atrial fibroblasts: Analysis of the evidence and potential role in atrial fibrillation. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 118:440-460. [PMID: 33576384 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is an important clinical problem. Chronic pressure/volume overload of the atria promotes AF, particularly via enhanced extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation manifested as tissue fibrosis. Loading of cardiac cells causes cell-stretch that is generally considered to promote fibrosis by directly activating fibroblasts, the key cell-type responsible for ECM-production. The primary purpose of this article is to review the evidence regarding direct effects of stretch on cardiac fibroblasts, specifically: (i) the similarities and differences among studies in observed effects of stretch on cardiac-fibroblast function; (ii) the signaling-pathways implicated; and (iii) the factors that affect stretch-related phenotypes. Our review summarizes the most important findings and limitations in this area and gives an overview of clinical data and animal models related to cardiac stretch, with particular emphasis on the atria. We suggest that the evidence regarding direct fibroblast activation by stretch is weak and inconsistent, in part because of variability among studies in key experimental conditions that govern the results. Further work is needed to clarify whether, in fact, stretch induces direct activation of cardiac fibroblasts and if so, to elucidate the determining factors to ensure reproducible results. If mechanical load on fibroblasts proves not to be clearly profibrotic by direct actions, other mechanisms like paracrine influences, the effects of systemic mediators and/or the direct consequences of myocardial injury or death, might account for the link between cardiac stretch and fibrosis. Clarity in this area is needed to improve our understanding of AF pathophysiology and assist in therapeutic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xixiao Li
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Anna Garcia-Elias
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada
| | - Begoña Benito
- Vascular Biology and Metabolism Program, Vall d'Hebrón Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain.,Cardiology Department, Hospital Universitari Vall d'Hebrón, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Stanley Nattel
- Department of Medicine and Research Center, Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Pharmacology and Physiology of the Université de Montréal Faculty of Medicine, Montreal, Canada.,Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Center, Faculty of Medicine, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.,IHU LIRYC and Fondation Bordeaux Université, Bordeaux, France
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sonaglioni A, Nicolosi GL, Rigamonti E, Lombardo M. Incremental prognostic role of left atrial reservoir strain in asymptomatic patients with moderate aortic stenosis. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2021; 37:1913-1925. [PMID: 33544241 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-021-02175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Left atrial (LA) mechanics assessed by two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) have not been extensively studied and clearly characterized in patients with moderate aortic stenosis (AS). Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the usefulness of LA reservoir strain for risk stratification of asymptomatic patients with moderate AS. This retrospective study included all consecutive asymptomatic patients with moderate AS who underwent transthoracic echocardiography implemented with 2D-STE analysis of LA myocardial strain and strain rate indices at our Institution, between February 2011 and September 2019. During the follow-up period, we evaluated the occurrence of any of the following: (1) CV hospitalization; (2) The recourse to AS surgery; (3) Cardiac death or sudden death. A total of 186 patients (mean age 71.9 ± 12.7 years, 61.8% men) were included in the present study. During a mean follow-up of 2.3 ± 1.9 years, no patients died and 63 adverse CV events were recorded: 48 patients were hospitalized because of heart failure (28 patients), acute coronary syndrome (10 patients), arrhythmias (10 patients) and 15 patients underwent AS surgery. At the multivariate Cox regression analysis, type 2 diabetes mellitus (OR 1.87, 95%CI 1.05-3.34, p = 0.03), NT-proBNP (OR average 1.14, 95%CI 1.02-1.27, p = 0.02), average E/e' ratio (OR 1.07, 95%CI 1.01-1.15, p = 0.04) and most of all left atrial positive global strain (LA-GSA+) (OR 0.85, 95%CI 0.81-0.90, p < 0.0001) were independently associated with the outcome. LA-GSA+ (optimal cut-off ≤ 19%, AUC = 0.94, 87% sensitivity, 99% specificity, positive predictive value 99%, negative predictive value 88%) showed the highest diagnostic performance. An impaired LA reservoir strain can contribute to identify a subset of asymptomatic patients with moderate AS at higher risk, who may benefit from closer echocardiographic follow-up and/or early surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Sonaglioni
- Department of Cardiology, Ospedale San Giuseppe MultiMedica, Via San Vittore 12, 20123, Milan, Italy. .,Ospedale San Giuseppe MultiMedica IRCCS, Via San Vittore 12, 20123, Milan, Italy.
| | | | - Elisabetta Rigamonti
- Department of Cardiology, Ospedale San Giuseppe MultiMedica, Via San Vittore 12, 20123, Milan, Italy
| | - Michele Lombardo
- Department of Cardiology, Ospedale San Giuseppe MultiMedica, Via San Vittore 12, 20123, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Ferreira J, Gonçalves V, Marques-Alves P, Martins R, Monteiro S, Teixeira R, Gonçalves L. Left atrial functional assessment and mortality in patients with severe aortic stenosis with sinus rhythm. Cardiovasc Ultrasound 2021; 19:1. [PMID: 33388070 PMCID: PMC7778823 DOI: 10.1186/s12947-020-00231-0] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aortic valve stenosis (AS) is the most common primary valvular heart disease leading to surgical or percutaneous aortic valve replacement (AVR) in Europe and its prevalence keeps growing. While other risk factors in severe AS are well documented, little is known about the prognostic value of left atrial (LA) function in AS. Our aim is to clarify the relationship between LA function measured at severe AS diagnosis (evaluated by means of volumetric assessment) and all-cause mortality during follow-up. METHODS We retrospectively evaluated patients diagnosed with severe AS for the first time at our echocardiography laboratory. We evaluated LA reservoir, conduit and pump function by measuring LA volumes at different timings of cardiac cycle. Treatment strategy was decided according to heart team consensus and patient decision. We divided patients into groups according to terciles of LA reservoir, conduit and pump function. Primary outcome was defined by the occurrence of all-cause mortality during follow-up. RESULTS A total of 408 patients were included in the analysis, with a median follow-up time of 45 months (interquartile range 54 months). 57.9% of patients underwent AVR and 44.9% of patients registered the primary outcome during follow-up. Left atrial emptying fraction (LAEF) was the best LA functional parameter and the best overall parameter in discriminating primary outcome (AUC 0.845, 95%CI 0.81-0.88, P < 0.001). After adjustment for clinical, demographic and echocardiographic variables, cumulative survival of patients with LAEF < 37% and LAEF 37 to 53% relative to patients with LAEF ≥54% remained significantly lower (HR 13.91, 95%CI 6.20-31.19, P < 0.001 and HR 3.40, 95%CI 1.57-7.37, P = 0.002, respectively). After adjustment for AVR, excess risk of LAEF < 37% and LAEF 37 to 53% relative to LAEF ≥54% remained significant (HR 11.71, 95%CI 5.20-26.40, P < 0.001 and HR 3.59, 95%CI 1.65-7.78, P = 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSIONS In patients with a first diagnosis of severe AS, LA function, evaluated by means of volumetric assessment, is an independent predictor of all-cause mortality and a more potent predictor of death compared to classical severity parameters. These data can be useful to identify high-risk patients who might benefit of AVR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- João Ferreira
- Serviço de Cardiologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Valdirene Gonçalves
- Serviço de Cardiologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal.,Departamento Cardio-torácico, Clínica Girassol, Luanda, Angola
| | - Patrícia Marques-Alves
- Serviço de Cardiologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Martins
- Serviço de Cardiologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Sílvia Monteiro
- Serviço de Cardiologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rogério Teixeira
- Serviço de Cardiologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,iCBR, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Lino Gonçalves
- Serviço de Cardiologia, Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta, R. Prof. Mota Pinto, 3004-561, Coimbra, Portugal.,Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal.,iCBR, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research, Universidade de Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|