Subacute postoperative atrial fibrillation after heart surgery: Incidence and predictive factors in cardiac rehabilitation

Background

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common arrhythmia following cardiac surgery (CS). It may occur between the 1st and the 4th postoperative day as acute POAF or between the 5th and the 30th as subacute (sPOAF). sPOAF is associated with higher thromboembolic risk, which consistently increase patients' morbidity. Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is a low-cost inflammatory index proposed as possible POAF predictor. Identification of patients' risk categories might lead to improved postoperative outcomes.

Methods

The aim was to assess the incidence of sPOAF and to identify possible predictors in patients performing cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) after CS. A single-center cohort study was performed on 737 post-surgical patients admitted to CR on sinus rhythm. Continuous monitoring with 12-lead ECG telemetry was performed. We evaluated the predictive role of anamnestic, clinical, and laboratory data, including baseline NLR.

Results

Subacute POAF was documented in 170 cases (23.1%). At the multivariate analysis, age (OR 1.03; p = .001), mitral valve surgery (OR 1.77; p = .012), acute POAF (OR 2.97; p < .001), and NLR at baseline (OR 1.13; p = .042) were found to be independent predictive factors of sPOAF following heart surgery.

Conclusions

sPOAF is common after CS. Age, mitral valve procedures, acute POAF, and preoperative NLR were proved to increase sPOAF occurrence in CR. NLR is an affordable and reliable parameter which might be used to qualify the risk of arrhythmias at CR admission. Identification of new predictors of postoperative atrial fibrillation may allow to improve patients' prognosis.

Imaging of the Diaphragm Following Cardiac Surgery: Focus on Ultrasonographic Assessment

Diaphragm dysfunction is a common complication following cardiac surgery. Its clinical impact is variable, ranging from the absence of symptoms to the acute respiratory failure. Post-operative diaphragm dysfunction may negatively affect patients' prognosis delaying the weaning from the mechanical ventilation (MV), extending the time of hospitalization and increasing mortality. Ultrasonography is a valid tool to evaluate diaphragmatic impairment in different settings, like the Intensive Care Unit, to predict successful weaning from the MV, and the Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Unit, to stratify patients in terms of risk of functional recovery failure. The aim of this review is to describe the pathophysiology of post-cardiac surgery diaphragm dysfunction, the techniques used for its diagnosis and the potential applications of diaphragm ultrasound.

[Management of patients with type 2 diabetes during cardiac prevention and rehabilitation. An expert opinion from the Italian Alliance for Cardiovascular Rehabilitation and Prevention (ITACARE-P)]

Patients with diabetes, regardless of their cardiovascular disease and their index event, are more and more often referred to Cardiac Rehabilitation Units. These patients usually show high or very high cardiovascular risk, marked disability and poor quality of life. Furthermore, those with older age, frailty, and female sex have even more rehabilitative needs, thus requiring fine individualized approaches. Consequently, in order to identify their therapeutic goals, the glycemic target should be pursued together with the effective reduction of the global cardiovascular risk. Modern exercise protocols are based on the synergic effect of both aerobic and strength training of moderate and high effort intensities, in order to achieve improvements of cardiorespiratory fitness and glycemic values as well. Exercise training and nutritional intervention are strictly related during the rehabilitation program, thus promoting better lifestyle in the long term too. New antidiabetic drugs (such as sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) should be included into a specific "patient journey" along with other core components of the rehabilitation program. Therefore, the active role of all allied professionals (namely nurses, physiotherapists, dietitians and psychologists) is essential to the success of the cardiometabolic team. Diabetes should be routinely included in the outcome evaluation of cardiac rehabilitation programs and in every follow-up plan through a successful crosstalk among cardiologists, diabetologists and patients.

250 POST-PERICARDIOTOMY SINDROME: A DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS OF A NEGLECTED SYNDROME

Background

Post-pericardiotomy syndrome (PPS) is a condition in which the surgical incision of the pericardium provokes the onset of pericardial and/or pleural effusion as a result of the inflammatory response inside the pericardial and/or the pleural space. PPS is a common complication following cardiac surgery (CS) and it has a significant impact on post-surgical patients’ management. Thus, it would be useful to find predictors in order to stratify patients in terms of risk of PPS and define tailored Cardiovascular Rehabilitation (CR) programmes.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and to elucidate the features of PPS in a population of patients undergoing cardiac surgery. Secondly, the study was focused on the findings of likeable predictors of PPS and PPS’ relapse.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was performed on 156 patients who underwent cardiac surgery and then were admitted to the CR Unit of our institute. Among the 156-patients population, 26 patients developed post-pericardiotomy syndrome. Pre-operative and post-operative anamnestic and clinical data were collected to define the baseline characteristics of the population. The predictive role of anamnestic data, type of surgical procedure and laboratory parameters was evaluated. Treatment was then started in the PPS population, analysed and compared to the outcome. Data were collected during CR hospital stay and after discharge, during follow up check-ups. During CR hospital stay, the analysis regarded first and second line medical therapy, which was started in case of persistence, worsening or relapse of the pericardial and/or pleural effusion. After discharge, the analysis considered the outcome of the therapy at a defined deadline. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to identify possible predictors of PPS and PPS’ relapse. All the variables with a univariate p-value &lt;0.150 or clinically relevant were entered into the multivariate model.

Results

The population comprehends 156 patients. PPS patients presented with pleural effusion pre surgical intervention in 3 cases (11.5% vs 0%; p-value &lt; 0.001) and showed more frequently pericardial effusion early after surgery (53.8% vs 8.5%; p-value &lt; 0.001). In 3 patients (1.9%) drainage of pleural effusion was needed (7.7% vs 0.8%, p-value= 0.019). At admission in the CR Unit 26 patients (16.6%) presented or subsequently developed PPS. Pericardial effusion was classified as mild in 18 patients (69.2%), moderate in 7 patients (26.9%) and severe in 1 patient (3.8%); the median value of pericardial effusion at diagnosis was 7.5 mm, while the median value of the maximum pericardial effusion was 9.5 mm. During in-hospital stay, a first line medical therapy was administered to 26 PPS patients (100%): 13 patients (50%) needed a switch to a second line therapy, 4 patients (15.4%) needed invasive treatment of the effusion, 3 patients (11.5%) needed percutaneous pleural drainage and 2 patients (7.7%) needed percutaneous pericardial drainage. Medical therapy’ collateral effects occurred in 7 patients (26.95%). PPS therapy at discharge was administered to 22 patients (84.6%). At follow up, pericardial effusion occurred in 9 patients (36%), pleural effusion occurred in 3 patients (12%). Relapse of pleuro/pericardial effusion after therapy suspension occurred in 3 patients (12%) and consequently, pleuro/pericardial effusion resolution was obtained in 23 patients (92%). The median time of therapy interruption at follow up was 27 days (7–60). Binary logistic regression was performed to identify the clinical predictors of PPS and PPS’ relapse, the multivariate analysis did not find statistical significance for independent predictors of both conditions.

Conclusion

The PPS is a common complication of cardiac surgery. Further studies are needed to determine novel possible PPS predictors. Possible indicators of PPS relapse should be identified in patients with possible discontinuation of treatment.

Diaphragm Dysfunction after Cardiac Surgery: Insights from Ultrasound Imaging during Cardiac Rehabilitation

Diaphragm dysfunction is common after cardiac surgery and can be evaluated with ultrasonography (US). We aimed at assessing with US the incidence of diaphragmatic dysfunction and the impact of cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) on its recovery. A single-center cohort study was performed. Patients were enrolled after cardiac surgery. The 6-min walking test (6MWT) and diaphragm US were performed at CR admission and after 10 rehabilitative sessions. One hundred eighty-five patients were eligible for final analysis. One hundred thirty-one patients (70.8%) were found to have diaphragm dysfunction (excursion <2 cm). After CR, 68 patients regained normal diaphragmatic function; those with persistent dysfunction had a lower level of functional performance on the 6MWT (metabolic equivalents of tasks: 3.3 vs. 3.6, p = 0.013). The patients who underwent combined surgery (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 4.09, p = 0.001) and those with post-operative pneumothorax (aOR = 3.02, p = 0.042) were at increased risk of failure to improve diaphragmatic excursion. US parameters were more powerful tools in predicting diaphragmatic evolution compared with the 6MWT indexes: baseline diaphragm excursion and thickening fraction were associated with complete diaphragmatic functional recovery after CR (aOR = 9.101, p < 0.001, and aOR = 1.058, p = 0.020 respectively). US is a valuable tool for the assessment of post-operative diaphragmatic dysfunction and can identify patients at risk of diaphragmatic recovery failure.

Post-pericardiotomy syndrome: insights into neglected postoperative issues

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVES

Pericardial effusion is a common complication after cardiac surgery, both isolated and in post-pericardiotomy syndrome (PPS), a condition in which pleuropericardial damage triggers both a local and a systemic inflammatory/immune response. The goal of this review was to present a complete picture of PPS and pericardial complications after cardiac surgery, highlighting available evidence and gaps in knowledge.

METHODS

A literature review was performed that included relevant prospective and retrospective studies on the subject.

RESULTS

PPS occurs frequently and is associated with elevated morbidity and significantly increased hospital stays and costs. Nevertheless, PPS is often underestimated in clinical practice, and knowledge of its pathogenesis and epidemiology is limited. Several anti-inflammatory drugs have been investigated for treatment but with conflicting evidence. Colchicine demonstrated encouraging results for prevention.

CONCLUSIONS

Wider adoption of standardized diagnostic criteria to correctly define PPS and start early treatment is needed. Larger studies are necessary to better identify high-risk patients who might benefit from preventive strategies.

Delphi consensus recommendations on how to provide cardiovascular rehabilitation in the COVID-19 era

This Delphi consensus by 28 experts from the European Association of Preventive Cardiology (EAPC) provides initial recommendations on how cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) facilities should modulate their activities in view of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. A total number of 150 statements were selected and graded by Likert scale [from -5 (strongly disagree) to +5 (strongly agree)], starting from six open-ended questions on (i) referral criteria, (ii) optimal timing and setting, (iii) core components, (iv) structure-based metrics, (v) process-based metrics, and (vi) quality indicators. Consensus was reached on 58 (39%) statements, 48 'for' and 10 'against' respectively, mainly in the field of referral, core components, and structure of CR activities, in a comprehensive way suitable for managing cardiac COVID-19 patients. Panelists oriented consensus towards maintaining usual activities on traditional patient groups referred to CR, without significant downgrading of intervention in case of COVID-19 as a comorbidity. Moreover, it has been suggested to consider COVID-19 patients as a referral group to CR per se when the viral disease is complicated by acute cardiovascular (CV) events; in these patients, the potential development of COVID-related CV sequelae, as well as of pulmonary arterial hypertension, needs to be focused. This framework might be used to orient organization and operational of CR programmes during the COVID-19 crisis.

Subacute postoperative atrial fibrillation after heart surgery: incidence and predictive factors in cardiac rehabilitation

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background. Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common arrhythmic complication following cardiac surgery. It may occur between the second and fourth postoperative days as acute POAF, or within 30 days as subacute POAF (sPOAF). The incidence varies from 15% to 60%, with the highest rates observed in patients undergoing valvular surgery. POAF is associated with longer hospital stay and higher thromboembolic risk, which consistently increase patients’ morbidity and mortality. Identification of high-risk categories may allow optimization of in-hospital prevention and treatment, possibly improving clinical outcomes.

Aim of the study. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of sPOAF and to identify possible predictors in patients performing Cardiovascular Rehabilitation (CR) after Cardiac Surgery (CS).

Methods. A single-centre retrospective study was performed on 383 post-cardiac surgery patients hospitalised in our CR Unit for inpatient rehabilitation. The entire population was on sinus rhythm at the admission in CR and continuous monitoring with 12-lead ECG telemetry was performed during the hospital stay. We calculated the incidence of sPOAF and then evaluated the predictive value of the following variables: anamnestic data, type of cardiac intervention, clinical course in both CS and CR Unit, laboratory parameters including baseline neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR).

Results. Median age was 65 years (63% male). sPOAF was documented in 122 cases (31.9%). Patients developing sPOAF were older [median age 69 (63-76) vs. 61 (51-70); p &lt; 0.001)], more frequently underwent complex surgical procedures (50% vs. 36%; p = 0.009) and were known for previous episodes of atrial fibrillation (27.9% vs. 11.2%; p &lt; 0.001). On the first day after surgery (T1), sPOAF group showed higher values of glycemia [median 155 (126.5–186.8) vs. 129 (106.5–164); p &lt; 0.001] and troponin T [median 721.5 (470.1–1084.3) vs. 488 (301.6-776.2); p &lt; 0.001]. The multivariate analysis identified advanced age (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.08; p = 0.023), acute POAF in the Cardiac Surgery Unit (OR 3.51, 95% CI 1.62-7.59; p = 0.001), baseline NLR (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.10-1.93; p = 0.008) and T1-troponin &gt; 552 ng/L (OR 4.16 95% CI 1.50-11.53; p = 0.006) as independent risk predictors of sPOAF during the CR period.

Conclusions. sPOAF is common after cardiac surgery occurring in 31.9% of patients during CR. Age, acute POAF, baseline NLR and elevated troponin T on the first postoperative day were shown predictors of increased sPOAF risk. Recognition of new predictors of POAF could be helpful to better stratify patients, improving management strategies and outcomes.

Lung Ultrasound in COVID-19 A Role Beyond the Acute Phase?

OBJECTIVES

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral illness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. With the increasing number of improved and discharged patients with COVID-19, the definition of an adequate follow-up strategy is needed. The purpose of this study was to assess whether lung ultrasound (LUS) is an effective indicator of subclinical residual lung damage in patients with COVID-19 who meet discharge criteria.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 70 consecutive patients with COVID-19 who had a prolonged hospitalization with inpatient rehabilitation between April 6 and May 22, 2020. All of the patients underwent an LUS evaluation at discharge. Data of patients with more severe disease during the acute phase (ie, required ventilatory support) were compared to those of patients with milder disease.

RESULTS

Among the 70 patients with COVID-19 (22 women and 48 men; mean age ± SD, 68 ± 13 years), the LUS score before discharge was still frankly pathologic and higher in patients who had more severe disease during the acute phase compared to patients with milder disease (median [interquartile range], 8.0 [5.5-13.5] versus 2.0 [1.0-7.0]; P < .001), even when both categories met internationally defined discharge criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

Lung ultrasound can identify the persistence of subclinical residual lung damage in patients with severe COVID-19 even if they meet discharge criteria. Considering the low cost, easy application, and lack of radiation exposure, LUS seems the ideal tool to be adopted in outpatient and primary care settings for the follow-up of patients with COVID-19.

Cardiac arrest due to acute thrombosis after surgical closure of coronary fistula: the role of anticoagulation

Described herein the case of a 47-year-old woman who underwent surgical closure of a large fistula between the right coronary artery (RCA) and the superior vena cava with subsequent thrombosis of the ectatic RCA determining myocardial infarction and cardiac arrest. After resuscitation, rheolitic thrombectomy with AngioJet device was performed and anticoagulant treatment was started in addition to antiplatelet therapy. The type of antithrombotic therapy after coronary fistula closure is still debated but long-term anticoagulation should be considered in high-risk cases.

Liraglutide Reduces Carotid Intima-Media Thickness by Reducing Small Dense Low-Density Lipoproteins in a Real-World Setting of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Novel Anti-Atherogenic Effect

INTRODUCTION

Liraglutide has several non-glycemic effects, including those on plasma lipids and lipoproteins, contributing to its cardiovascular benefit; however, the exact underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We investigated a novel anti-atherogenic effect of liraglutide in a real-world prospective study on patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with T2DM (31 men, 31 women; mean age ± standard deviation 61 ± 9 years) naïve to incretin-based therapies were treated with liraglutide (1.2 mg/day) as add-on therapy to metformin (1500-3000 mg/day) for 4 months. Laboratory analyses included the assessment of lipoprotein subclass profile by gel electrophoresis (Lipoprint; Quantimetrix Corp., Redondo Beach, CA, USA). Carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) was assessed by Doppler ultrasonography. Statistical analyses included the paired t test, Spearman correlation and multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

The addition of liraglutide to metformin monotherapy resulted in significant reductions in fasting glycemia, hemoglobin A1c, body mass index, waist circumference, total cholesterol, triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol, as well as in cIMT. There was an increase in the large LDL-1 subfraction, with a concomitant reduction in atherogenic small dense LDL-3 and LDL-4 subfractions. Correlation analysis revealed a significant association between changes in cIMT and changes in small dense LDL-3 subfraction (r = 0.501; p < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis, including all of the measured anthropometric and laboratory parameters, revealed that only changes in the small dense LDL-3 subfraction were independent predictors of changes in cIMT (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Our findings are the first to show that the vascular benefit of liraglutide in patients with T2DM is associated with reductions in atherogenic small dense LDL. This effect is independent of glycemic control and body weight reduction and may represent one of the key mechanisms by which liraglutide is able to reduce cardiovascular events.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01715428.

Cardiovascular rehabilitation after valvular heart surgery: predictive factors of major complications

Background

The population of patients affected by valvular heart disease is growing and for many of them valvular surgery is still considered the gold standard treatment. Cardiovascular Rehabilitation (CR) following intervention is fundamental for the post-surgical functional recovery and for the monitoring and management of complications that may occur after surgery.

Aim of the study

We aimed at identifying predictors of major complications in patients who underwent valvular surgery and subsequently were involved in an in-patient CR program. Major complications were defined as those requiring an in-patient management: severe anemia needing transfusions, infection of the sternal surgical wound requiring an antibiotic treatment, a positive hemoculture in the presence of systemic signs of infection and pericardial effusion requiring surgical drainage.

Methods and statistical analysis

1600 patients who have been hospitalized in our CR Unit after valvular surgery were enrolled (median age 64 years; 60% males). We examined the demographic data, the cardiovascular risk factors, the main comorbidities, the type of heart surgery (type of valvular surgery and the presence of concomitant other cardiac intervention), the complications developed in Cardiac Surgery Unit and in the CR Unit, the in-hospital length of stay, the 6 minutes-walking tests and principal blood tests.

Results

At multivariate analysis we found that chronic renal dysfunction [OR 1,902 (CI 1,103–3,280), p=0,021], complex cardiac intervention [OR 1,554 (CI 1,030–2,344), p=0,036], sternal re-synthesis [OR 4,671 (CI 1,659–13,152), p=0,004], early post-surgical transfusions [OR 1,670 (CI 1,083–2,573), p=0,020] are independent risk factors for major complications, while a higher hemoglobin value at CR admission [OR 0,677 (CI 0,566–0,810), p&lt;0,001] resulted an independent protective factor.

Conclusions

We identified predictors of major complications during CR after valvular surgery. These factors may help in defining the patients at major risk tailoring the patient management, adopting an individualized clinical and instrumental monitoring. A tailored CR period gives the possibility to optimize the use of hospital economic resources and to achieve a better final outcome.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Subacute post-operative atrial fibrillation after valvular surgery in patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation: predictive factors

Background

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most frequent arrhythmic complication following cardiac surgery (occurring in up to one third of patients). It may develop between the second and fourth postoperative days (acute POAF) as well as later, within 30 days after surgery (subacute). Episodes of atrial fibrillation in the subacute phase (sPOAF) are associated with an increase in morbidity, length of hospital stay and several complications both in the mid- and long- term. Therefore, POAF is not just an acute event but it may impact on long term clinical outcomes.

Aim of the study

The aim of this study was to identify the clinical predictors of postoperative atrial fibrillation in the subacute phase (sPOAF) in patients performing Cardiovascular Rehabilitation (CR) after cardiac surgery.

Materials and methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 737 post-surgical valvular patients (median age 62 years; 55,4% male) hospitalised in our Unit for in-patient CR program. During all the hospital stay patients received continuous monitoring with 12-lead ECG telemetry. We evaluated the predictive value of anamnestic data, the type of cardiac surgery intervention, the clinical course in the Cardiac Surgery Unit and in the CR Unit, the 6 minutes-walking tests (6MWT) parameters and main blood tests on sPOAF onset.

Results

SPOAF was documented in 170 patients (23,1%). Those who developed sPOAF were older [median 66 (56–74) years vs median 61 (50–70) years; p&lt;0,001), had a history of atrial fibrillation prior to surgery (29,4% vs 16,2%; p&lt;0,001), had a worse functional result at the 6MWT at the admission in CR Unit [median 250 (180–320) vs median 275 (210–370); p=0,015], had higher values of neutrophil-lymphocite ratio at baseline [median 2,33 (1,84–3,27) vs median 2,17 (1,64 - 2,87); p=0,027] when compared to those who did not develop POAF. At the multivariable logistic regression analysis, the occurrence of POAF in the acute phase (OR 2,916; 95% CI 2,011–4,228; p&lt;0,001), advanced age (OR 1,027; 95% CI 1,01–1,044; p=0,002), previous history of atrial fibrillation (OR 1,652; 95% CI 1,068–2,555; p=0,024), higher values of NLR at baseline (OR 1,144; 95% CI 1,028–1,272; p=0,013) and mitral valve surgery (OR 1,632, 95% CI 1,075–2,480; p=0,022) were found to be independent predictors of sPOAF after cardiac surgery.

Conclusions

Atrial fibrillation is a common complication after cardiac surgery with great clinical relevance. Advanced age, previous history of AF, higher values of NLR at baseline, mitral valve surgery and the occurrence of POAF in the acute phase were shown to be predictors of sPOAF in a cardiac surgery population during the rehabilitation period.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

P4385Diaphragm dysfunction following cardiac surgery: role of ultrasound imaging for initial and follow-up assessment during cardiac rehabilitation

Background

Diaphragm dysfunction is a common complication of cardiac surgery, often underdiagnosed. Ultrasonography (US) is a promising technique for diaphragmatic assessment. Few trials have been conducted using US after heart surgery and no clear data exist on the recovery of diaphragm function after cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR).

Purpose

The aim of this study is to evaluate post-cardiac surgery diaphragm dysfunction using US and to assess the impact of an inpatient CR programme on its functional recovery.

Methods

In a single-centre prospective cohort study 97 consecutive patients hospitalised in our CR Unit were enrolled. 14 patients underwent aortic valve replacement, 38 mitral valve repair or replacement, 14 coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), 22 combined surgery, and 9 other surgical interventions. We performed diaphragm US at admission and after 10 rehabilitative sessions. The following parameters were assessed: thickening fraction (TF) in B-mode on the right intercostal projections, and excursion, time of inspiration, time of a respiratory cycle and contraction velocity in M-mode on right anterior subcostal projections.

Results

After cardiac surgery, the incidence of diaphragm dysfunction and paralysis were 60% and 1%, respectively. Patients with TF <20% at admission showed a significant improvement in TF (13.30%, IQR 8.69–17.39 vs 27.27%, IQR 21.05–31.58; p<0.001), excursion (1.67cm, IQR 1.3–2.1 vs 2.23cm, IQR 1.9–2.7; p<0.001), time of inspiration (0.9s, IQR 0.9–1.07 vs 1.01s, IQR 0.87–1.13; p=0.005), time of a respiratory cycle (2.67s, IQR 2.38–3.05 vs 3.07s, IQR 2.68–3.35; p<0.001) and velocity (1.81cm/s, IQR 1.14–2.33 vs 2.24cm/s, IQR 1.92–2.76; p<0.001). On the contrary, in patients with a TF>20%, no additional improvement was observed. In both groups, there was a significant improvement in the parameters of physical performance.

In particular, in the group with a TF<20%, the distance covered during the 6MWT (300m, IQR 205–370 vs 555m, IQR 450–612; p<0.001) and the energy cost of physical activity (2.60, IQR 2.13–2.92 vs 4.09, IQR 3.44–4.50; p<0.001) increased while the perception of exertion (Borg Scale 11, IQR 11–13 vs 13, IQR 12–13; p=0.011) was reduced. At the 10th day assessment, 51.5% of the total population had a recovery of diaphragm function, whilst 48.5% had a failure of recovery (TF relative change between admission and discharge <60%). The multivariate analysis identified CABG as an independent predictor of failure of diaphragm recovery (OR 5.44; CI 1.10–26.84, p=0.037).

Conclusion

US might be a valuable part of routine clinical practice for initial and follow-up assessment of patients after open-heart surgery. CR showed to be an effective strategy to improve diaphragm parameters in patients with post-surgical dysfunction. Progressive evaluation of diaphragm function may drive personalised rehabilitation programmes.

P2522A new scoring system to stratify post-surgical valvular patients during cardiovascular rehabilitation: derivation and validation study

Background

Guidelines underline the importance of Cardiovascular Rehabilitation (CR) in post-surgical valvular patients both for the functional recovery and the monitoring of complications. However, there are no established indicators to better categorise their risk and to identify the real probability of recovery.

Purpose

The aim of this study is to propose and validate a scoring system to appropriately stratify post-surgical valvular patients in order to individualise CR programmes.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 1480 post-surgical valvular patients hospitalized in our CR Unit (902 M – 578 F; median age of 64 years, IQR 53–73). 485 patients underwent single heart valve repair, 408 single heart valve replacement, 237 single heart valve surgery and additional interventions, 249 multiple valve interventions and 101 multiple heart valves and additional interventions. Subjects were randomised in two groups for data analysis: a Derivation (D; n=1000) and a Validation (V; n=480) group. Initially, in group D we assessed the predictive value of anamnestic, clinical and laboratory variables for major complications and functional recovery. We created two scoring systems for these outcomes and, subsequently, we validated them on group V. Finally, we interlaced them in an operative algorithm.

Results

Chronic kidney disease (OR 2.588; 95% CI 1.232–5.436; p=0.012), sternal surgical re-synthesis (OR 7.757; 95% CI 2.042–29.471; p=0.003), post-surgical transfusions (OR 2.419; 95% CI 1.407–4.161; p=0.001) and Troponin T peak >1400 μg/L (OR 2.441; 95% CI 1.418–4.200; p=0.001) were independent predictors for the occurrence of major complications in group D. Age (OR 0.958; 95% CI 0.9339–0.977; p<0.001), post- surgical transfusions (OR 1.981; 95% CI 1.160–3.380; p<0.001) and METS at admission (OR 0.032; 95% CI 0.017–0.061; p<0.001) were independent predictors of a higher functional recovery in group D. When the two scoring systems were validated on group V, we obtained a z score of 0.07 (p=0.941) for the major complications risk score and a z score of 1.23 (p=0.219) for the functional recovery stratification system, respectively, indicating a very reliable model. We proceeded to build an operative algorithm to stratify patients and propose personalised CR strategies.

Conclusions

We identified predictors to stratify the risk of complications and to define the probability of recovery in post-surgical valvular patients undergoing CR. The proposed final operative algorithm may be a unique tool to support the cardiologist to tailor rehabilitation programmes. This may lead to better outcomes and reduction of healthcare expenditure with optimisation in the use of available resources.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None

Microvascular dysfunction in infiltrative cardiomyopathies

Infiltrative heart diseases are characterized by myocardial tissue alterations leading to mechanical dysfunction which in turn develops into bi-ventricular congestive heart failure. Also the coronary microvasculature undergoes significant remodeling and dysfunction. The effects of the unbalance of the mechanical cross-talk between cardiac muscle and vessels and of the impairment of vasodilatory function can be measured non-invasively by means of positron emission tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance.

Cardiologist and Diabetologist crosstalk in the era of cardiovascular outcome trials of novel glucose-lowering drugs

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes continues to increase and cardiovascular (CV) diseases remain the leading cause of death in diabetic patients. Diabetologists and Cardiologists have to work together in order to provide the best management to these patients. After years of disappointing studies showing no reduction of CV events with strict glycaemic control, some of the novel glucose-lowering drugs (GLDs) seem to offer a new approach to tackle the problem, since the CV outcome trials (CVOTs-D) of liraglutide, semaglutide, empagliflozin and canagliflozin have demonstrated not only their CV safety but also their efficacy in the reduction of CV morbidity and mortality. Along with the initial enthusiasm, concerns have been raised about the economical sustainability of long-term therapies considering higher costs of new molecules relative to the traditional ones. As expenses in the medical field are on the rise, healthcare systems need to balance the positive impact of an intervention and its overall cost. This review is meant to offer the Cardiologists a different point of view on the positive influence of GLDs, in the light of the main trials in the CV fields they are familiar with. The purpose of this article is to critically review the magnitude of the CVOTs-D results by the analysis of their statistical determinants, to establish the extent of the GLDs positive impact on patients with both diabetes and CV disease. The analysis has been performed taking into account models and statistical determinants used in the main landmark cardiology trials. It is fundamental to translate the result of CVOTs-D in clinical practice: the interdisciplinary crosstalk between the Cardiologist and Diabetologist is of paramount importance in order to fully exploit the power of the new available pharmacological strategies.

Pathophysiological Mechanisms and Correlates of Therapeutic Pharmacological Interventions in Essential Arterial Hypertension

Treating arterial hypertension (HT) remains a hard task. The hypertensive patient is often a subject with several comorbidities and metabolic abnormalities. Clinicians everyday have to choose the right drug for the single patient among the different classes of antihypertensives. Apart from lowering blood pressure, a main therapeutic target should be that of counteracting all the possible pathophysiological mechanisms involved in HT itself and in existing/potential comorbidities. All the ancillary positive and negative effects of the administered drugs should be considered: in particular, since hypertensive patients are often glucose intolerant/diabetic, carrier of serum lipids disorder, have already developed atherosclerotic diseases and endothelial dysfunction, they should not be treated with drugs negatively interfering with these conditions but with molecules that, if possible, improve them. The main pathophysiological mechanisms and correlates of therapeutic pharmacological interventions in essential HT are reviewed here.

Ivabradine reduces myocardial stunning in patients with exercise-inducible ischaemia

Ivabradine is an effective treatment for angina in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD) and for heart failure. Experiments in a canine model have shown that ivabradine reduces both acute left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and post-ischaemic stunning. Aim of this study was to investigate the effect of ivabradine on LV dysfunction and stunning in patients with CAD and exercise-inducible ischaemia. Fifteen patients with ejection fraction >40 % and heart rate >70 bpm were enrolled. After pharmacologic washout, echocardiography was performed at rest, at peak treadmill exercise and during recovery until return to baseline. After 2 weeks of ivabradine (7.5 mg bid) stress echocardiography was repeated at the same workload achieved during washout. Peak global and segmental (ischaemic vs. remote normal segments) LV longitudinal strain (LS) was assessed by 2D speckle tracking analysis. At washout, LS was significantly impaired in ischaemic compared to remote segments at peak stress and for several minutes during recovery. After ivabradine a smaller, albeit still significant, impairment of LS in ischaemic segments was observed at peak whilst no difference with remote segments was present during recovery. Furthermore, the average global LS value improved significantly after treatment. In conclusion, ivabradine reduces both acute LV dysfunction and stunning in patients with CAD and exercise-inducible ischaemia. We hypothesise that this mechanism might contribute to reduce chronic LV dysfunction in patients with CAD. In this setting the drug might limit the development of hibernating myocardium which is believed to result from repeated episodes of ischaemia and stunning.

Erectile dysfunction in heart failure patients: a critical reappraisal

Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome with a constantly increasing incidence and prevalence in western countries. Total absence of sexual activity is registered in 30% of HF patients. Moreover, HF-induced reduction in exercise tolerance, side effects of HF medications and the coexistence of shared risk factors between HF and sexual dysfunction may further aggravate the sexual health of HF patients. The purpose of this review is to examine the pathophysiological mechanisms behind the association of erectile dysfunction (ED) and HF, the potential therapeutic approaches and the eventual indications for sexual activity in HF patients. Medline and Cochrane Library search was performed from January 1970 through October 2012 to retrieve relevant papers outlining the association between ED and HF. Many evidences have outlined a tight association between ED and HF pathophysiological standpoint. Shared risk factors, common pathogenic traits and epidemiologic association represent some of the links between these conditions. Erectile dysfunction has been recognized as an earlier predictor of cardiovascular events; moreover, HF itself may cause and/or worsen ED because of its particular feature and co-morbidities. Furthermore, some cardiovascular drugs may contribute to impaired erectile function. In stable patients with stable HF, sexual activity is generally not contraindicated but it should be encouraged, as a form of moderate-intensity physical exertion. An effective treatment of ED in HF patients should be founded on the correction of reversible risk factors, on the choice of cardiovascular drugs with the lowest effect upon patient's erectile function, and on the use of phosphodiesterase-5-inhibitors. Physicians should be aware of the close relation between HF and ED and of the related clinical and therapeutic implications, in order to improve patients quality of life and clinical outcome.

[An unusual case of transient ST-segment elevation during hypertensive crisis in a patient with left ventricular hypertrophy]

We report the case of a 73-year-old patient with severe left ventricular hypertrophy presenting with acute ST-segment elevation mimicking acute myocardial infarction on ECG during a hypertensive crisis. Unexpectedly, emergency coronary angiography showed no evidence of coronary thrombosis or spasm. Electrocardiographic alterations gradually resolved after lowering blood pressure.

Beneficial effects of beta-blockers on left ventricular function and cellular energy reserve in patients with heart failure

Beta-blockers have been shown to improve left ventricular (LV) function in patients with heart failure. The aim of this study is to non-invasively assess, by means of in vivo 31P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P-MRS), the effects of beta-blockers on LV cardiac phosphocreatine and adenosine triphosphate (PCr/ATP) ratio in patients with heart failure. Ten heart failure patients on full medical therapy were beta-blocked by either carvedilol or bisoprolol. Before and after 3 months of treatment, exercise testing, 2D echocardiography, MRS, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, ejection fraction (EF), maximal rate-pressure product and exercise metabolic equivalent system (METS) were evaluated. Relative concentrations of PCr and ATP were determined by cardiac 31P-MRS. After beta-blockade, NYHA class decreased (from 2.2 ± 0.54 to 1.9 ± 0.52, P = 0.05), whereas EF (from 33 ± 7 to 44 ± 6%, P = 0.0009) and METS (from 6.74 ± 2.12 to 8.03 ± 2.39, P = 0.01) increased. Accordingly, the mean cardiac PCr/ATP ratio increased by 33% (from 1.48 ± 0.22 to 1.81 ± 0.48, P = 0.03). Beta-blockade-induced symptomatic and functional improvement in patients with heart failure is associated to increased PCr/ATP ratio, indicating preservation of myocardial high-energy phosphate levels.

Resting cardiac energy metabolism is inversely associated with heart rate in healthy young adult men

BACKGROUND

31-Phosphorus-magnetic resonance spectroscopy may provide pathophysiological insights into the high-energy phosphate metabolism of the myocardium as measured by phosphocreatine to adenosine triphosphate (PCr/ATP) ratio. Aim of the present study was to determine in vivo the relation between cardiac PCr/ATP ratio and heart rate in normal male subjects.

METHODS

One hundred twelve apparently healthy, young male individuals (age 34 ± 10 years) were prospectively evaluated. They underwent cardiac cine magnetic resonance imaging to assess left ventricular (LV) function and morphology and 3D-ISIS (31)P-magnetic resonance spectroscopy of the LV to assess the PCr/ATP ratio (a recognized in vivo marker of myocardial energy metabolism). Data were analyzed after segregation by tertiles of the resting PCr/ATP ratio.

RESULTS

A significant inverse association between PCr/ATP ratios and resting heart rate was observed (Spearman ρ: r=-0.37; P < .0001). PCr/ATP ratios were also inversely associated with body mass index, diastolic blood pressure, wall mass and with insulin resistance, but in multiple regression analysis heart rate was found to be independently related to PCr/ATP.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study shows that resting heart rate is proportionally lower across tertiles of increasing PCr/ATP ratio of the LV in apparently healthy young male individuals, supporting the hypothesis that heart rate is a major determinant of cardiac energy stores. These findings may explain the prognostic role of heart rate in the general population as evidenced by previous large epidemiological studies.

[Present trends and controversies in the use of beta-blockers in cardiovascular diseases]

In this paper we summarize present trends and controversies in the use of beta-blockers in cardiovascular diseases. Beta-blockers are catecolamine competitive inhibitors and act through alpha and beta adrenergic receptors blockade. Different agents have a dose-dependent affinity for different beta adrenergic receptors (beta 1, beta 2, beta 3) which is less with higher doses. The most important therapeutic effects of beta-blockers are on cardiovascular system, where they act as negative chronotropic and inotropic agents, lowering cardiac work and improving oxygen demand /supply ratio. Clinical indications are numerous. For their anti-ischemic activity beta-blockers are used as anti-anginal drugs and in acute and previous myocardial infarction for preventing total and cardiovascular mortality. Combined use of beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors slows down heart failure progression and reduces cardiovascular mortality. Beta-blockers are useful in treating focal atrial tachycardia and supra ventricular paroxysmal tachycardia, by reducing sinus node automaticity and delay atrio-ventricular conduction; they also prevent sudden cardiac death and ventricular tachycardia associated with increased sympathetic activity. There is no indication in treating primary non-complicated hypertension with beta-blockers as first-line drugs. Different metabolic effects of selective and non-selective beta-blockers are actually debated. In conclusion, beta-blockers have indication in the treatment of many cardiovascular diseases. Further studies are needed for better understanding the differences in cardiac and peripheral beta-blockers effects depending on their selectivity.