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Shiue M, Nyman A, Karvell R, Partington SL, Preminger TJ, Reda C, Ruckdeschel E, Sullivan K, Tobin L, Vaikunth SS, Saef J, Tedla BA, Kim YY. Experiences and Attitudes Toward Telemedicine in an Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic: Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic. Pediatr Cardiol 2024:10.1007/s00246-024-03533-6. [PMID: 38836881 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-024-03533-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has driven a broader adoption of telemedicine (TM). We aim to describe adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patient experiences with TM and explore factors associated with positive attitude toward future TM visits. This is a cross-sectional, single-center study in an outpatient ACHD clinic from February to June, 2022. Between-group comparisons were made using Wilcoxon-Rank Sum, Chi-Square, or Fisher-Exact tests. Univariate logistic regression was performed for variables that could correlate with a "positive" attitude toward future TM visits. Significance was determined using an alpha level of 0.05. Of 262 patients (median age 33 years, 55% female, 81% White), 115 (44%) had a prior TM visit and 110 (96%) reported a positive experience. There were 64 (24%) with a positive attitude toward future TM visits. Concerns include lack of cardiac testing and limited quality of visit. Patients with visits every 3-6 months (Odds Ratio [OR] 2.44; p < 0.01) and prior TM visit (OR 1.89; p = 0.03) had higher odds of a positive attitude toward future TM, whereas males had lower odds (OR 0.53; p = 0.04). Age, annual income, disease complexity, distance from clinic, and employment status were not associated. There is high rate of satisfaction with TM among ACHD patients but only one-quarter indicated interest in using TM in the future. Factors associated with interest in TM visits are identified, and together with patient feedback, can be used to understand potential role of TM for the ACHD population in the post-pandemic era.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mia Shiue
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Annique Nyman
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Robert Karvell
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Sara L Partington
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Tamar J Preminger
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Christian Reda
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Emily Ruckdeschel
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Kathleen Sullivan
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Lynda Tobin
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Sumeet S Vaikunth
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Joshua Saef
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Bruke A Tedla
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Yuli Y Kim
- Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, 3401 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
- Division of Cardiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Perelman Center for Advanced Medicine, 2Nd Floor E. Pavilion, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Gasparini PA, Lodi E, Rodighiero E, Rosero Morales J, Fantini G, Modena MG. Echocardiographic screening in pediatric asymptomatic or paucisymptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 outpatients: is it a useful test or an excess of zeal? J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2024; 25:234-238. [PMID: 37577859 PMCID: PMC10849130 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001549] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Data regarding echocardiographic findings during follow-up of asymptomatic or pauci-symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are scarce in pediatric patients. The aim of the present study is to assess post-COVID-19 sequelae through echocardiography in children who have experienced mild SARS-CoV-2. METHODS This single-center, retrospective, observational study enrolled a cohort of 133 pediatric outpatients, born between 2005 and 2022, with a history of asymptomatic or paucisymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, who underwent transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE) evaluation at an outpatient pediatric clinic in Northern Italy. RESULTS The percentage of the pediatric activity of the clinic which was focused on post-COVID evaluation was not negligible, representing almost 10% of the ∼1500 pediatric patients examined from 1 January 2021 to 31 August 2022. According to ACEP classification, children enrolled in this study had previously experienced in 72.9% (97) asymptomatic COVID-19 and nearly 27% (36) a mild illness. Clinical and instrumental examinations did not show any relevant abnormality in the functional [left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP)] or structural [interventricular septum diameter (IVSd), left ventricular internal diameter (LViD, end-diastolic volume (EDV), left atrium volume (LAV)] parameters examined related to SARS-CoV-2 infection in the total of 133 children. CONCLUSION According to our results, children who experienced an asymptomatic or mild SARS-CoV-2 infection should not be systematically investigated with second-level techniques, such as TTE, in the absence of clinical suspicion or other risk conditions such as congenital heart diseases, comorbidities or risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elisa Lodi
- P.A.S.C.I.A. Center (Heart Failure Care Program, Childhood Heart Diseases and Those at Risk), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, AOU Polyclinic of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rodighiero
- P.A.S.C.I.A. Center (Heart Failure Care Program, Childhood Heart Diseases and Those at Risk), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, AOU Polyclinic of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Jonathan Rosero Morales
- P.A.S.C.I.A. Center (Heart Failure Care Program, Childhood Heart Diseases and Those at Risk), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, AOU Polyclinic of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Fantini
- P.A.S.C.I.A. Center (Heart Failure Care Program, Childhood Heart Diseases and Those at Risk), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, AOU Polyclinic of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Modena
- P.A.S.C.I.A. Center (Heart Failure Care Program, Childhood Heart Diseases and Those at Risk), University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, AOU Polyclinic of Modena, Modena, Italy
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Tran T, Steiner JM, Venkateswaran A, Buber J. Peak oxygen consumption by smartwatches compared with cardiopulmonary exercise test in complex congenital heart disease. Heart 2024; 110:353-358. [PMID: 37827554 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2023-322989] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate for correlation between exercise capacity as assessed by peak oxygen consumption (pVO2) measurement during a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) and smartwatches reporting this parameter in patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) complex lesions. METHODS A prospective study that included patients with ACHD either a Fontan circulation or a right ventricle supporting the systemic circulation who underwent two separate CPETs at least 1 year apart. Generalised estimating equations linear regression was performed to identify factors associated with correlation between smartwatch and CPET-derived pVO2. RESULTS 48 patients (71% with a Fontan circulation, 42% females, mean age 33±9 years) underwent two CPETs between May 2018 and May 2022 with echocardiograms performed within 6 months of each CPET. Apple Watch was the predominant smartwatch used (79%). Smartwatch and CPET measured peak heart rate (Pearson correlation=0.932, 95% CI (0.899, 0.954)) and pVO2 (0.8627, 95% CI (0.8007, 0.9064) and 0.8634, 95% CI (0.7676, 0.9215) in the first and second CPET, respectively) correlated well, with smartwatch-measured pVO2 values measuring higher by a mean of 3.146 mL/kg/min (95% CI (2.559, 3.732)). Changes in pVO2 between the first and the second CPET also correlated well (Pearson correlation=0.9165, 95% CI (0.8549, 0.9525)), indicating that for every 1 mL/(min kg) change in CPET-measured pVO2, there was a corresponding 0.896 mL/(min kg) change in the smartwatch-measured pVO2. CONCLUSION Both absolute values and changes over time in pVO2 as measured by smartwatches and CPETs correlate well in patients with complex ACHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomio Tran
- Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Jill Marie Steiner
- Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | | | - Jonathan Buber
- Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA
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Lee MGY, Russo JJ, Ward J, Wilson WM, Grigg LE. Impact of Telehealth on Failure to Attend Rates and Patient Re-Engagement in Adult Congenital Heart Disease Clinic. Heart Lung Circ 2023; 32:1354-1360. [PMID: 37821262 DOI: 10.1016/j.hlc.2023.08.010] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic paved the way for telehealth consultations. We aimed to determine the impact of telehealth on rates of failure to attend (FTA) in adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) clinics and whether telehealth could re-engage patients with previous FTA face-to-face appointments. METHODS This was a retrospective audit of a tertiary ACHD clinic over a 12-month pre-telehealth (26 March 2019-17 March 2020) and 12-month post-telehealth implementation period (24 March 2020-16 March 2021). Patients with one or more FTAs during the 24-month study period were included. Our ACHD clinic is run three times per month. Patients with ACHD are offered lifelong follow-up and reviewed annually on average. Re-engagement was defined as two or more consecutive face-to-face FTAs immediately before the telehealth period with subsequent attendance of their telehealth appointment. RESULTS A total of 359 patients with a total of 623 FTAs were included. Complexity of congenital heart disease was moderate in 56% (202/359) and severe in 19% (69/359) of patients. Overall FTA rate was 18% (623/3,452). FTA rate was significantly lower in the post-telehealth period (15%, 257/1,664) compared with the pre-telehealth period (20%, 366/1,788) (p<0.00001). At study conclusion, 1% of patients had died (5/359). Of the 354 remaining patients, 42% (150/354) were considered lost to follow-up (two or more FTAs including telehealth), 37% (132/354) missed only one clinic appointment, and 20% (72/354) previously considered lost to follow-up had re-engaged in the telehealth period. CONCLUSIONS Rates of FTA in a tertiary ACHD clinic significantly reduced after the introduction of telehealth consultation. A fifth of patients considered lost to follow-up were re-engaged with telehealth. Additional strategies to further reduce FTA should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa G Y Lee
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Department of Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Heart Research, Clinical Sciences, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia.
| | - Jeremy J Russo
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Juliet Ward
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - William M Wilson
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Department of Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Leeanne E Grigg
- Department of Cardiology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Vic, Australia; Department of Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
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Bellicini MG, D'Altilia FP, Gussago C, Adamo M, Lombardi CM, Tomasoni D, Inciardi RM, Metra M, Pagnesi M. Telemedicine for the treatment of heart failure: new opportunities after COVID-19. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2023; 24:700-707. [PMID: 37409660 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the epidemiology of heart failure significantly changed with reduced access to health system resources and a worsening of patients' outcome. Understanding the causes of these phenomena could be important to refine the management of heart failure during and after the pandemic. Telemedicine was associated with an improvement in heart failure outcomes in several studies; therefore, it may help in refining the out-of-hospital care of heart failure. In this review, the authors describe the changes in heart failure epidemiology during the COVID-19 pandemic; analyse available evidence on use and benefit of telemedicine during the pandemic and prepandemic periods; and discuss approaches to optimize the home-based or outpatient heart failure management in the future, beyond the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giulia Bellicini
- Institute of Cardiology, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Pradegan N, Lorenzoni G, Gregori D, Gerosa G. Early coronavirus disease 2019 impact on cardiac surgical emergencies in northeast Italy: hidden collateral damage? J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2023; 24:141-142. [PMID: 36583983 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Lorenzoni
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular and Public Health Department, Padova University Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - Dario Gregori
- Unit of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Public Health, Cardio-Thoraco-Vascular and Public Health Department, Padova University Hospital, Padova, Italy
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Vitolo M, Ziveri V, Gozzi G, Busi C, Imberti JF, Bonini N, Muto F, Mei DA, Menozzi M, Mantovani M, Cherubini B, Malavasi VL, Boriani G. DIGItal Health Literacy after COVID-19 Outbreak among Frail and Non-Frail Cardiology Patients: The DIGI-COVID Study. J Pers Med 2022; 13:jpm13010099. [PMID: 36675760 PMCID: PMC9863916 DOI: 10.3390/jpm13010099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Telemedicine requires either the use of digital tools or a minimum technological knowledge of the patients. Digital health literacy may influence the use of telemedicine in most patients, particularly those with frailty. We aimed to explore the association between frailty, the use of digital tools, and patients' digital health literacy. METHODS We prospectively enrolled patients referred to arrhythmia outpatient clinics of our cardiology department from March to September 2022. Patients were divided according to frailty status as defined by the Edmonton Frail Scale (EFS) into robust, pre-frail, and frail. The degree of digital health literacy was assessed through the Digital Health Literacy Instrument (DHLI), which explores seven digital skill categories measured by 21 self-report questions. RESULTS A total of 300 patients were enrolled (36.3% females, median age 75 (66-84)) and stratified according to frailty status as robust (EFS ≤ 5; 70.7%), pre-frail (EFS 6-7; 15.7%), and frail (EFS ≥ 8; 13.7%). Frail and pre-frail patients used digital tools less frequently and accessed the Internet less frequently compared to robust patients. In the logistic regression analysis, frail patients were significantly associated with the non-use of the Internet (adjusted odds ratio 2.58, 95% CI 1.92-5.61) compared to robust and pre-frail patients. Digital health literacy decreased as the level of frailty increased in all the digital domains examined. CONCLUSIONS Frail patients are characterized by lower use of digital tools compared to robust patients, even though these patients would benefit the most from telemedicine. Digital skills were strongly influenced by frailty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Vitolo
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Ziveri
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giacomo Gozzi
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Busi
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Jacopo Francesco Imberti
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Niccolò Bonini
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Federico Muto
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Davide Antonio Mei
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Matteo Menozzi
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Marta Mantovani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Benedetta Cherubini
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Livio Malavasi
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Boriani
- Cardiology Division, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Policlinico di Modena, 41125 Modena, Italy
- Correspondence:
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Bonfioli G, Tomasoni D, Metra M, Adamo M. Coronavirus disease 2019 and cardiovascular disease: what we have learnt during the last 2 years. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2022; 23:710-714. [DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Zorzi A, Mattesi G, Frigo AC, Leoni L, Bertaglia E, De Lazzari M, Cipriani A, Iliceto S, Corrado D, Migliore F. Impact of coronavirus disease 19 outbreak on arrhythmic events and mortality among implantable cardioverter defibrillator patients followed up by remote monitoring: a single center study from the Veneto region of Italy. J Cardiovasc Med (Hagerstown) 2022; 23:546-550. [PMID: 35905001 DOI: 10.2459/jcm.0000000000001348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2020 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 outbreak entailed reduced availability of traditional (in-office) cardiology consultations. Remote monitoring is an alternative way of caring that may potentially mitigate the negative effects of the epidemic to the care of cardiovascular diseases. We evaluated the outcome of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) carriers followed up remotely in 2020 (epidemic period) versus 2019 (control). METHODS We included all patients with an ICD who remained remotely monitored from the beginning to the end of each year. The combined end point included: new-onset atrial fibrillation; sustained ventricular tachycardia >170 bpm without ICD intervention; appropriate ICD intervention (either shock or antitachycardia pacing); any-cause death. Multiple events in the same patients were counted separately if occurring ≥48 h apart. RESULTS In 2020, 52 end points occurred in 37 of 366 (10%) ICD carriers [0.14/patient (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.11-0.19)] versus 43 end points in 32 of 325 (10%) ICD carriers in 2019 [0.13/patient (95% CI = 0.10-0.18) P = 0.75]. There was no difference between the distribution of any individual end point in 2020 versus 2019 although a nonsignificant mortality increase was observed (from 2.8% to 4.6%, P = 0.19). The lowest weekly event rate occurred during the national lock down in spring 2020 but a similar trend occurred also in 2019 suggesting that the effect may not be linked to social distancing measures. CONCLUSIONS We did not observe an increase in a combined end point including arrhythmic events and mortality in ICD carriers who were remotely monitored in 2020, compared to 2019, despite the negative impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak on the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Zorzi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova
| | | | - Anna Chiara Frigo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova
| | - Loira Leoni
- Azienda ospedale-università di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | | | | | - Alberto Cipriani
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova
| | - Sabino Iliceto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova
| | - Domenico Corrado
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova
| | - Federico Migliore
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padova
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Atrial High-Rate Episodes Detected by Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices: Dynamic Changes in Episodes and Predictors of Incident Atrial Fibrillation. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030443. [PMID: 35336817 PMCID: PMC8945035 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Atrial high rate episodes (AHRE) detected by cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) may be associated with a risk of progression towards long-lasting episodes (≥24 h) and clinical atrial fibrillation (AF). Identification of this subset of patients is key to promptly starting oral anticoagulant therapy and possibly avoiding stroke and systemic thromboembolism. In the present study, we describe the clinical characteristics of 104 retrospectively enrolled patients with AHRE episodes lasting 5 min–23 h 59 min, no AF at 12-lead ECG, and no history of prior clinical AF. Moreover, we define predictors of the composite outcome of clinical AF and/or AHRE episodes lasting ≥24 h. Over a median follow-up of 24.3 (10.6–40.3) months, 31/104 (29.8%) patients experienced the composite outcome. Baseline CHA2DS2-VASc score and the longest AHRE episode at enrollment lasting 12 h–23 h 59 min were independently associated with the composite outcome and with incident clinical AF as well. To conclude, in patients with AHRE, the incidence of clinical AF or AHRE episodes lasting ≥24 h is high. Baseline patients’ characteristics (CHA2DS2-VASc score) and AHRE duration may help to intensify monitoring and decision-making, being independently associated with clinical AF in a two-year follow-up. Abstract Background. Atrial high rate episodes (AHRE) detected by cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) may be associated with a risk of progression towards long-lasting episodes (≥24 h) and clinical atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods. Consecutive CIED patients presenting AHRE (with confirmation of an arrhythmia lasting 5 min–23 h 59 min, atrial rate ≥175/min, with no AF at 12-lead ECG and no prior clinical AF) were retrospectively enrolled. The aims of this study were to describe patients’ characteristics and the incidence of adverse events, and second, to identify potential predictors of the composite outcome of clinical AF and/or AHRE episodes lasting ≥24 h. Results. 104/107 (97.2%) patients (median age 79.7 (74.0–84.2), 33.7% female) had available follow-up data. Over a median follow-up of 24.3 (10.6–40.3) months, 31/104 (29.8%) patients experienced the composite outcome of clinical AF or AHRE episodes lasting ≥24 h. Baseline CHA2DS2-VASc score and the longest AHRE episode at enrollment lasting 12 h–23 h 59 min were independently associated with the composite outcome (Hazard ratio (HR); 95% CI: 1.40; 1.07–1.83 and HR: 8.15; 95% CI 2.32–28.65, respectively). Baseline CHA2DS2-VASc score and the longest AHRE episode at enrollment lasting 12 h–23 h 59 min were the only independent predictors of incident clinical AF (HR: 1.45; 95% CI 1.06–2.00 and HR: 4.25; 95% CI 1.05–17.20, respectively). Conclusions. In patients with AHRE, the incidence of clinical AF or AHRE episodes lasting ≥24 h is high in a two-year follow-up. Baseline patients’ characteristics (CHA2DS2-VASc score) and AHRE duration may help to intensify monitoring and decision-making, being independently associated with clinical AF at follow-up.
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