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Bijvoet GP, Hermans BJM, Linz D, Luermans JGLM, Maesen B, Nijveldt R, Mihl C, Vernooy K, Wildberger JE, Holtackers RJ, Schotten U, Chaldoupi SM. Optimal Threshold and Interpatient Variability in Left Atrial Ablation Scar Assessment by Dark-Blood LGE CMR. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2024:S2405-500X(24)00377-3. [PMID: 39001763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2024.05.017] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dark-blood late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) has better correlation with bipolar voltage (BiV) to define ablation scar in the left atrium (LA) compared to conventional bright-blood LGE CMR. OBJECTIVES This study sought to determine the optimal signal intensity threshold of dark-blood LGE CMR to identify LA ablation scar. METHODS In 54 patients scheduled for atrial fibrillation ablation, image intensity ratios (IIRs) were derived from preprocedural dark-blood LGE CMR. In 26 patients without previous ablation, the upper limit of normal was derived from the 95th and 98th percentiles of pooled IIR values. In 28 patients with previous atrial fibrillation ablation, BiV was compared with the corresponding IIR. Receiver-operating characteristics analyses were employed to determine the optimal IIR threshold (ie, the point with the smallest distance to the upper left corner of the receiver-operating characteristics) for LA ablation scar (BiV ≤0.15 mV). RESULTS Upper limit of normal corresponded to IIR values 1.16 and 1.21, yielding low sensitivities of 0.32 and 0.09 to detect LA ablation scar. Receiver-operating characteristics analysis of IIR and BiV comparison achieved a median area under the curve of 0.77. Median optimal IIR threshold for LA ablation scar was 1.09, with an average sensitivity of 0.73, specificity of 0.75, and accuracy of 0.71. Median IIR thresholds of 1.00 and 1.10 corresponded to 80% sensitivity and 80% specificity, respectively. There was considerable interpatient variability: optimal IIR thresholds per patient ranged from 1.01 to 1.22. CONCLUSIONS The optimal IIR threshold to identify LA ablation scar by dark-blood LGE CMR is 1.09. Because of interpatient variability, the investigators recommend using a lower (1.00) and upper (1.10) threshold to prevent over- or underestimation of ablation scar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geertruida Petronella Bijvoet
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Ben J M Hermans
- Department of Physiology, CARIM, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Justin G L M Luermans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Bart Maesen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, CARIM, MUMC+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Robin Nijveldt
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Casper Mihl
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, CARIM, MUMC+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Joachim E Wildberger
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, CARIM, MUMC+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Rob J Holtackers
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, CARIM, MUMC+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands; Department of Physiology, CARIM, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Sevasti-Maria Chaldoupi
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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van der Heijden CAJ, Aerts L, Chaldoupi SM, van Cruchten C, Kawczynski M, Heuts S, Bidar E, Luermans JGLM, Maesen B. Hybrid atrial fibrillation ablation. Ann Cardiothorac Surg 2024; 13:54-70. [PMID: 38380145 PMCID: PMC10875200 DOI: 10.21037/acs-2023-afm-0129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
In this state-of-the art review on hybrid atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation, we briefly focus on the pathophysiology of AF, the rationale for the hybrid approach, its technical aspects and the efficacy and safety outcomes after hybrid AF ablation, both from meta-analyses and randomized control trial data. Also, we performed a systematic search to provide a provisional overview of real-world hybrid AF ablation efficacy and safety outcomes. Furthermore, we give an insight into the 'Maastricht approach', an approach that allows us to tailor the ablation procedure to the individual patient. Finally, we reflect on future perspectives with the objective to continue improving our thoracoscopic hybrid AF ablation approach. Based on the review of the available literature, we believe it is fair to state that thoracoscopic hybrid AF ablation is a valid alternative to catheter ablation for the treatment of patients with more persistent forms of AF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luca Aerts
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sevasti-Marisevi Chaldoupi
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Cas van Cruchten
- Department of Plastic Surgery, VieCuri Medical Center, Venlo, The Netherlands
| | - Michal Kawczynski
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Samuel Heuts
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Elham Bidar
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Justin G. L. M. Luermans
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Maesen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Cardiovascular Research Institute (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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3
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Hermans BJ, Bijvoet GP, Holtackers RJ, Mihl C, Luermans JG, Maesen B, Vernooy K, Linz D, Chaldoupi SM, Schotten U. Multi-modal characterization of the left atrium by a fully automated integration of pre-procedural cardiac imaging and electro-anatomical mapping. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2023; 49:101276. [PMID: 37854978 PMCID: PMC10579959 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2023.101276] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Background The combination of information obtained from pre-procedural cardiac imaging and electro-anatomical mapping (EAM) can potentially help to locate new ablation targets. In this study we developed and evaluated a fully automated technique to align left atrial (LA) anatomies obtained from CT- and MRI-scans with LA anatomies obtained from EAM. Methods Twenty-one patients scheduled for a pulmonary vein (PV) isolation with a pre-procedural MRI were enrolled. Additionally, a recent computed tomography (CT) scan was available in 12 patients. LA anatomies were segmented from MRI-scans using ADAS-AF (Galgo Medical, Barcelona) and from the CT-scans using Slicer3D. MRI and CT anatomies were aligned with the EAM anatomy using an iterative closest plane-to-plane algorithm. Initially, the algorithm included the PVs, LA appendage and mitral valve anulus as they are the most distinctive landmarks. Subsequently, the algorithm was applied again, excluding these structures, with only three iterative steps to refine the alignment of the true LA surface. The result of the alignments was quantified by the Euclidian distance between the aligned anatomies after excluding PVs, LA appendage and mitral anulus. Results Our algorithm successfully aligned 20/21 MRI anatomies and 11/12 CT anatomies with the corresponding EAM anatomies. The average median residual distances were 1.9 ± 0.6 mm and 2.5 ± 0.8 mm for MRI and CT anatomies respectively. The average LA surface with a residual distance less than 5.00 mm was 89 ± 9% and 89 ± 10% for MRI and CT anatomies respectively. Conclusion An iterative closest plane-to-plane algorithm is a reliable method to automatically align pre-procedural cardiac images with anatomies acquired during ablation procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben J.M. Hermans
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Geertruida P. Bijvoet
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Robert J. Holtackers
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Casper Mihl
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Justin G.L.M. Luermans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Bart Maesen
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Sevasti-Maria Chaldoupi
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Center (MUMC+), Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Hereijgers MJ, van der Velden RM, el Moussaoui N, Verhaert DV, Habibi Z, Luermans J, den Uijl D, Chaldoupi SM, Vernooy K, Schotten U, Baumert M, Gietema HA, Mihl C, Koltowski L, Franssen FM, Simons SO, Linz D. Repurposing catheter ablation work-up to detect expiratory airflow limitation in patients with atrial fibrillation. IJC HEART & VASCULATURE 2023; 49:101305. [PMID: 38053981 PMCID: PMC10694302 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcha.2023.101305] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Background In atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, presence of expiratory airflow limitation may negatively impact treatment outcomes. AF patients are not routinely screened for expiratory airflow limitation, but existing examinations can help identify at-risk individuals. We aimed to assess the diagnostic value of repurposing existing assessments from the pre-ablation work-up to identify and understand the characteristics of affected patients. Methods We screened 110 consecutive AF patients scheduled for catheter ablation with handheld spirometry. Routine pre-ablation work-up included cardiac computed tomographic angiography (CCTA), transthoracic echocardiography and polygraphy. CCTA was analyzed qualitatively for emphysema and airway abnormalities. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine predictors of expiratory airflow limitation. Results We found that 25 % of patients had expiratory airflow limitation, which was undiagnosed in 86 % of these patients. These patients were more likely to have pulmonary abnormalities on CCTA, including emphysema (odds ratio [OR] 4.2, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.12-15.1, p < 0.05) and bronchial wall thickening (OR 2.6, 95 % CI 1.0-6.5, p < 0.05). The absence of pulmonary abnormalities on CCTA accurately distinguished patients with normal lung function from those with airflow limitation (negative predictive value: 85 %). Echocardiography and polygraphy did not contribute significantly to identifying airflow limitation. Conclusions In conclusion, routine pre-ablation CCTA can detect pulmonary abnormalities in AF patients with airflow limitation, guiding further pulmonary assessment. Future studies should investigate its impact on ablation procedure success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maartje J.M. Hereijgers
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rachel M.J. van der Velden
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nora el Moussaoui
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dominique V.M. Verhaert
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Zarina Habibi
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Justin Luermans
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis den Uijl
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sevasti-Maria Chaldoupi
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Physiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Mathias Baumert
- Discipline of Biomedical Engineering, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Hester A. Gietema
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Casper Mihl
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Lukasz Koltowski
- First Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Frits M.E. Franssen
- Department of Research and Development, Ciro, Horn, The Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sami O. Simons
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- NUTRIM Research Institute of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- CARIM Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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5
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van der Velden RMJ, Hereijgers MJM, Arman N, van Middendorp N, Franssen FME, Gawalko M, Verhaert DVM, Habibi Z, Vernooy K, Koltowski L, Hendriks JM, Heidbuchel H, Desteghe L, Simons SO, Linz D. Implementation of a screening and management pathway for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients with atrial fibrillation. Europace 2023; 25:euad193. [PMID: 37421318 PMCID: PMC10351574 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euad193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) negatively impacts the efficacy of heart rhythm control treatments in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Although COPD is recognized as a risk factor for AF, practical guidance about how and when to screen for COPD is not available. Herein, we describe the implementation of an integrated screening and management pathway for COPD into the existing pre-ablation work-up in an AF outpatient clinic infrastructure. METHODS AND RESULTS Consecutive unselected patients accepted for AF catheter ablation in the Maastricht University Medical Center+ were prospectively screened for airflow limitation using handheld (micro)spirometry at the pre-ablation outpatient clinic supervised by an AF nurse. Patients with results suggestive of airflow limitation were offered referral to the pulmonologist. Handheld (micro)spirometry was performed in 232 AF patients, which provided interpretable results in 206 (88.8%) patients. Airflow limitation was observed in 47 patients (20.3%). Out of these 47 patients, 29 (62%) opted for referral to the pulmonologist. The primary reason for non-referral was low perceived symptom burden. Using this screening strategy 17 (out of 232; 7.3%) ultimately received a diagnosis of chronic respiratory disease, either COPD or asthma. CONCLUSION A COPD care pathway can successfully be embedded in an existing AF outpatient clinic infrastructure, using (micro)spirometry and remote analysis of results. Although one out of five patients had results suggestive of an underlying chronic respiratory disease, only 62% of these patients opted for a referral. Pre-selection of patients as well as patient education might increase the diagnostic yield and requires further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel M J van der Velden
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Maartje J M Hereijgers
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Nazia Arman
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Naomi van Middendorp
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Frits M E Franssen
- Department of Research and Development, Ciro, 6085 NM Horn, the Netherlands
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Monika Gawalko
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dominique V M Verhaert
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Zarina Habibi
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Lukasz Koltowski
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-091 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jeroen M Hendriks
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, 5001 Adelaide, Australia
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, 5000 Adelaide, Australia
| | - Hein Heidbuchel
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Antwerp, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, 3590 Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Lien Desteghe
- Department of Cardiology, Antwerp University Hospital, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
- Research Group Cardiovascular Diseases, University of Antwerp, 2650 Antwerp, Belgium
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, Hasselt University, 3590 Hasselt, Belgium
- Heart Center Hasselt, Jessa Hospital, 3500 Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Sami O Simons
- NUTRIM School of Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Maastricht University, 6200 MD Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Centre and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, 5000 Adelaide, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
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6
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Betz K, Verhaert DVM, Gawalko M, Hermans ANL, Habibi Z, Pluymaekers NAHA, van der Velden RMJ, Homberg M, Philippens S, Hereijgers MJM, Vorstermans B, Simons SO, den Uijl DW, Chaldoupi SM, Luermans JGLM, Westra SW, Lankveld T, van Steenwijk RP, Hol B, Schotten U, Vernooy K, Hendriks JM, Linz D. Atrial fibrillation-specific refinement of the STOP-Bang sleep apnoea screening questionnaire: insights from the Virtual-SAFARI study. Clin Res Cardiol 2023; 112:834-845. [PMID: 36773038 PMCID: PMC10241725 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-023-02157-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is prevalent in up to 50% of patients referred for atrial fibrillation (AF) catheter ablation (CA). Currently, it remains unclear how to improve pre-selection for SDB screening in patients with AF. AIM We aimed to (1) assess the accuracy of the STOP-Bang screening questionnaire for detection of SDB within an AF population referred for CA; (2) derive a refined, AF-specific SDB score to improve pre-selection. METHODS Consecutive AF patients referred for CA without a history of SDB and/or SDB screening were included. Patients were digitally referred to the previously implemented Virtual-SAFARI SDB screening and management pathway including a home sleep test. An apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) of ≥ 15 was interpreted as moderate-to-severe SDB. Logistic regression analysis was used to assess characteristics associated with moderate-to-severe SDB to refine pre-selection for SDB screening. RESULTS Of 206 included patients, 51% were diagnosed with moderate-to-severe SDB. The STOP-Bang questionnaire performed poorly in detecting SDB, with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.647 (95% Confidence-Interval (CI) 0.573-0.721). AF-specific refinement resulted in the BOSS-GAP score. Therein, BMI with cut-off point ≥ 27 kg/m2 and previous stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) were added, while tiredness and neck circumference were removed. The BOSS-GAP score performed better with an AUROC of 0.738 (95% CI 0.672-0.805) in the overall population. CONCLUSION AF-specific refinement of the STOP-Bang questionnaire moderately improved detection of SDB in AF patients referred for CA. Whether questionnaires bring benefits for pre-selection of SDB compared to structural screening in patients with AF requires further studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISOLATION was registered NCT04342312, 13-04-2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstanze Betz
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Eifelklinik St. Brigida GmbH & Co. KG, Kammerbruchstraße 8, 52152, Simmerath, Germany
| | - Dominique V M Verhaert
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Monika Gawalko
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- 1St Department of Cardiology, Doctoral School, Medical University of Warsaw, Żwirki i Wigury 61, 02-091, Warsaw, Poland
- Institute of Pharmacology, West German Heart and Vascular Centre, University Duisburg-Essen, Forsthausweg 2, 47057, Duisburg, Germany
| | - Astrid N L Hermans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Zarina Habibi
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nikki A H A Pluymaekers
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rachel M J van der Velden
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marloes Homberg
- Department of Anesthesiology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Suzanne Philippens
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje J M Hereijgers
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Bianca Vorstermans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sami O Simons
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dennis W den Uijl
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sevasti-Maria Chaldoupi
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Justin G L M Luermans
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd W Westra
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Theo Lankveld
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Bernard Hol
- Netherland Sleep Institute, Computerweg 4, 3821 AB, Amersfoort, The Netherlands
| | - Ulrich Schotten
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen M Hendriks
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Port Rd, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Sturt Rd, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA, 5042, Australia
| | - Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht (CARIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center and Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Centre for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Port Rd, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia.
- Caring Futures Institute, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Sturt Rd, Bedford Park, Adelaide, SA, 5042, Australia.
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Nørregade 10, 1165, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht Heart+Vascular Center, 6202 AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Hermans ANL, Betz K, Verhaert DVM, den Uijl DW, Clerx K, Debie L, Lahaije M, Vernooy K, Linz D, Weijs B. 360° Virtual reality to improve patient education and reduce anxiety towards atrial fibrillation ablation. Europace 2023; 25:855-862. [PMID: 36738261 PMCID: PMC10062331 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euac246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Evaluation of (i) the effects of a virtual reality (VR) preprocedural patient education video on information provision, procedure-related knowledge, satisfaction, and the level of worries in patients planned for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation and (ii) the feasibility of a disposable cardboard VR viewer for home use in this setting. METHODS AND RESULTS In this prospective observational cohort study, patients were alternatively assigned in a 1:1 ratio to the control or VR group. Controls received standard preprocedural information. VR group received standard information and a VR video (via in-hospital VR headset and disposable cardboard). The Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) together with additional questions concerning procedural experience and satisfaction was completed pre- and post-ablation. Of 134 patients [38.1% female, aged 66 (58-72) years] included, 49.2% were assigned to the control and 50.7% to the VR group. The number of patients that worried about the ablation procedure was lower in VR than in control patients (19.1% vs. 40.9%, P = 0.006). More VR females than males had worries about the procedure (34.8% vs. 11.1%, P = 0.026). The number of VR patients that were satisfied with the preprocedural information provision was higher post-ablation than pre-ablation (83.3% vs. 60.4%, P = 0.007). In total, 59.4% reported that the disposable cardboard was easy to use and led to a discussion with relatives in 68.8%. CONCLUSION In patients scheduled for AF ablation, a VR preprocedural educational video led to better information provision and procedure-related knowledge, higher satisfaction, and less worries regarding the procedure. The disposable cardboard was feasible for home use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid N L Hermans
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Konstanze Betz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dominique V M Verhaert
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Dennis W den Uijl
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kristof Clerx
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Luuk Debie
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Marion Lahaije
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Kevin Vernooy
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Dominik Linz
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, 6525 GA Nijmegen, the Netherlands.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Nørregade 10, 1165 København, Denemarken, Denmark.,Center for Heart Rhythm Disorders, University of Adelaide and Royal Adelaide Hospital, Port Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australië, Australia
| | - Bob Weijs
- Department of Cardiology, Maastricht University Medical Center and Cardiovascular Research Institute Maastricht, P. Debyelaan 25, 6229 HX Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology and Electrophysiology, Katholische Stiftung Marien hospital Aachen, Zeise 4, 52066 Aachen, Duitsland
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