Effect of Ticagrelor on Left Ventricular Function in Patients with Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction after Acute Myocardial Infarction

Abstract Background There are limited data about the effect of new P2Y12 inhibitors on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Objectives We aimed to investigate the effect of ticagrelor on left ventricular function, compared to clopidogrel in patients with heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) after AMI. Methods In this cross-sectional, single-center study, we included 251 patients with LVEF between 40% and 50% after AMI before discharge. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the use of ticagrelor (166 patients) and clopidogrel (85 patients). At the end of the 12-month period, LVEF changes were assessed by echocardiography. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results The mean LVEF before discharge was 46.5% ± 3.6%, and no difference was observed between the ticagrelor and clopidogrel groups (p = 0.20). At the end of the first year, the mean LVEF of the patients increased to 49.8% ± 7.6% in both groups. The use of ticagrelor (β ± SE = 2.05 ± 0.93; p = 0.029), low creatinine level (β ± SE = −10.44 ± 2.35; p < 0.001), low troponin level (β ± SE = −0.38 ± 0.14; p = 0.006), and low heart rate (β ± SE = −0.98 ± 0.33; p = 0.003) were found to be independent predictors of the increase in LVEF (β ± SE 2.05 ± 0.93; 95% confidence interval: 0.21 to 3.90; p = 0.029). Conclusion In our study, ticagrelor improved left ventricular function in 12 months follow-up compared to clopidogrel in patients with HFmrEF after AMI.

Insuficiencia cardiaca con fracción de eyección reducida: interrogantes comunes en la práctica médica

Introducción: la insuficiencia cardíaca es un síndrome clínico complejo con síntomas y signos que resultan de cualquier alteración estructural o funcional del llenado ventricular o la eyección de sangre. La prevalencia de insuficiencia cardiaca exhibe una variabilidad de 0,2% a 17,7% en naciones industrializadas Materiales y métodos: se realizó una revisión utilizando base de datos como: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scielo, incluyendo estudios de tipo observacionales, artículos de revisión, ensayos clínicos, y guías clínicas sobre el manejo de pacientes con insuficiencia cardiaca con fracción de eyección reducida. Resultados y conclusiones: la terapia en la insuficiencia cardíaca con fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda (FEVI) reducida busca contrarrestar los mecanismos deletéreos contrarreguladores. La disfunción sistólica del ventrículo izquierdo implica una FEVI ≤ 40%, mientras que la insuficiencia cardíaca se diagnostica por síntomas y signos de congestión, no solo por la FEVI. Los péptidos natriuréticos ayudan en el diagnóstico, pero niveles elevados pueden tener causas no cardíacas. La hipotensión arterial no contraindica el inicio del tratamiento farmacológico. La lesión renal aguda en estos pacientes indica un mal pronóstico, pero los diuréticos de asa de Henle pueden mejorar la función renal. Durante exacerbaciones agudas por insuficiencia cardiaca, no se deben suspender los medicamentos recomendados, ya que su continuidad reduce la mortalidad y las readmisiones. Terapias como la ivabradina, digoxina, hidralazina e isosorbida dinitrato no han demostrado beneficios en insuficiencia cardiaca y FEVI reducida. Sin embargo, vericiguat y omecamtiv mecarbil obtuvieron resultados significativos en reducción de muertes y hospitalizaciones por IC. Además, se recomienda el desfibrilador automático implantable para prevenir muerte cardíaca súbita. El uso de soporte mecánico circulatorio y el trasplante cardiaco debe ser considera en pacientes con IC avanzada que no responde adecuadamente al tratamiento farmacológico.

Introduction: Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome with symptoms and signs resulting from any structural or functional alteration of ventricular filling or blood ejection. The prevalence of heart failure varies from 0.2% to 17.7% in industrialized nations. Materials and methods: A review was carried out using databases such as: PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scielo, including observational studies, review articles, clinical trials, and clinical guidelines on the management of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Results and conclusions: Therapy in heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) seeks to counteract deleterious counterregulatory mechanisms. Left ventricular systolic dysfunction implies an LVEF ≤ 40%, while heart failure is diagnosed by symptoms and signs of congestion, not LVEF alone. Natriuretic peptides aid in diagnosis, but elevated levels may have non-cardiac causes. Arterial hypotension does not contraindicate the start of pharmacological treatment. Acute kidney injury in these patients indicates a poor prognosis, but Henle loop diuretics may improve renal function. During acute exacerbations of heart failure, recommended medications should not be discontinued, because they reduce mortality and readmissions. Therapies such as ivabradine, digoxin, hydralazine, and isosorbide dinitrate have not demonstrated benefits in heart failure and reduced LVEF. However, vericiguat and omecamtiv mecarbil obtained significant results in reducing deaths and hospitalizations due to HF. Additionally, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator is recommended to prevent sudden cardiac death. The use of mechanical circulatory support and cardiac transplantation should be considered in patients with advanced HF that does not respond adequately to pharmacological treatment.

Clinical characteristics, etiological profile, treatment and long term outcomes in patients with non ischemic systolic heart failure; Himachal Pradesh heart failure registry (HP–HF registry)

Background: The data on clinical characteristics, treatment practices and out comes in patients with Nonischemic Systolic Heart Failure (NISHF) is limited. We report clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes in patients with NISHF. Methods: 1004 patients with NISHF were prospectively enrolled and their demographics, clinical characteristics, and treatment were recorded systematically. Patients were followed annually for a median of 3 years (1 year to 8 years) for allcause death, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE); composite of all-cause death, hospitalization of heart failure, and or for stroke. Results: Patients of NISHF were middle-aged (58.8±16.2 years) population with severely depressed left ventricular ejection fraction (29.3±7.02%) and 31.1% had symptoms of advanced Heart failure. Hypertension (43.6%), obesity and or overweight (28.0%), Diabetes (15.0%), and valvular heart disease (11.8%) were the common risk factors. The guideline directed medical treatment was prescribed in more than 80% of the study cohort. Incidence of all cause death and MACE was 7 (6.8, 8.8) per 100 person years and 11(10, 13) per 100 person years respectively. The cumulative incidence of deaths and MACE was 35% (30%, 40%) and 49% (44%, 53%) at 8 years of follow-up. Conclusions: Patients of NISHF were middle-aged population with severely depressed LV systolic function with significant incident morbidity and mortality. Early detection of risk factors and their risk management and enhancing the use of guideline directed treatment may improve the outcomes. Keywords: Non-ischemic systolic heart failure, risk factors, outcomes, guideline directed treatment

Incidence, determinants, and outcomes of recovered left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients with non-ischemic systolic heart failure; a hospital-based cohort study

Background: The data on incidence of recovered Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF) and outcome in patients with non ischemic systolic heart failure is limited. We report the incidence, determinants and mortality in patients with recovered LVEF. Methods: The 369 patients with HFrEF with LVEF of less than 40% of non ischemic etiology with available follow up echocardiography study at one year were enrolled. The baseline data of clinical characteristics and treatment was recorded prospectively and were followed up annually for mean of 3.6 years (range 2 to 5 years) to record all cause death and LVEF measured echocardiographically. The recovered, partially recovered and no recovery of LVEF was defined based on increase in LVEF to 50% and more, 41% to 49% and to persistently depressed LVEF to 40% or lower respectively. Results: The LVEF recovered in 36.5%% of the cohort at 5 years. The rate of recovery of LVEF was slower in patients with no recovery of LVEF at one year compared to cohort with partially recovered LVEF (18% vs.53%) at five year. The Baseline LVEF was significantly associated with recovered LVEF, odd ratio (95% C.I.) 1.09(1.04, 1.14). The cumulative mortality at five years was significantly lower in cohort with recovered LVEF (18.1% vs. 57.1%). Conclusions: One third of the patients had recovered LVEF and was significantly associated with baseline LVEF and lower mortality rate.

Factores asociados con mortalidad intrahospitalaria en falla cardíaca aguda: un estudio de cohorte retrospectiva / Factors Associated with in-hospital Mortality in Acute Heart Failure: A Retrospective Cohort Study / Fatores associados à mortalidade intra-hospitalar na insuficiência cardíaca aguda: estudo retrospectivo

Introducción: La falla cardiaca es una enfermedad de alta prevalencia mundial y de gran interés para la salud pública. En Colombia constituye una de las principales causas de mortalidad de origen cardiovascular, por lo cual es importante determinar los factores de riesgo asociados con la mortalidad intrahospitalaria en estos pacientes. Materiales y métodos: Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva que incluyó a 260 pacientes con diagnóstico de falla cardiaca aguda atendidos en el Hospital Universitario San Rafael de Tunja (Colombia) entre enero de 2019 y enero de 2022. Con un análisis univariado y bivariado se construyó un modelo de regresión de Cox para determinar los factores asociados con mortalidad intrahospitalaria, y como desenlaces secundarios se determinó la incidencia de mortalidad intrahospitalaria a 10 días, el reingreso y el tiempo de estancia hospitalaria. Resultados: La incidencia de mortalidad intrahospitalaria a los 10 días fue del 10 %, el reingreso hospitalario se presentó en el 21,2 % de los pacientes, la media de estancia hospitalaria fue de 9,31 días. Los factores de riesgo para mortalidad intrahospitalaria estadísticamente significativos fueron la clasificación clínica de Stevenson C o L (HR: 3,2; IC: 1,12-9,39; p = 0,03) y la clase funcional del paciente a su ingreso NYHA III o IV (HR: 2,76; IC: 1,02-7,53; p = 0,04). Conclusiones: La clasificación clínica de Stevenson C o L y la clase funcional según NYHA III o IV demostraron ser factores de riesgo independientes de mortalidad intrahospitalaria. Se sugiere identificar tempranamente a estos pacientes, ya que podría asegurar una mayor supervivencia

Introduction: Heart failure is an illness of high prevalence at world level, and therefore one of great interest for public health. In Colombia, it is one of the leading causes of death from cardiovascular cause. For this reason, it is important to determine the risk factors associated to intrahospital morta-lity in these patients. Materials and methods: Retrospective cohort study that included 260 patients diagnosed with acute heart failure treated in San Rafael University Hospital in Tunja between January 2019 and January 2022. A univariate and a bivariate analysis were carried out calculating Hazard Ratio and p values. With these results, a Cox regression model was made to determine the associated factors in intrahos-pital mortality; in addition, the incidence of intrahospital mortality 10 days after admission; readmis-sions; and length of hospital stay were determined as secondary outcomes. Results: The incidence of intrahospital mortality 10 days after admission was of 10%; hospital read-missions occurred for 21.2% of the patients; the mean in hospital stay was of 9.31 days; the statis-tically significant risk factors for intrahospital mortality were Stevenson's clinical classification C or L (HR: 3.2; IC: 1.12-9.39; p = 0.03] and the patient's functional class at the time of admission NYHA III or IV (HR: 2.76; IC: 1.02-7.53; p = 0.04]. Conclusion: Stevenson's clinical classification C or L and the functional class NYHA III or IV emerge as independent risk factors for intrahospital mortality. Early identification of these patients is suggested for an increased rate of survival.

Introdução: a insuficiência cardíaca é uma doença de elevada prevalência em todo o mundo e que suscita grades preocupações em termos de saúde pública. Na Colômbia, esta é uma das principais causas de mortalidade cardiovascular, pelo que é importante determinar os fatores de risco associados à mortalidade intra-hospitalar nestes pacientes. Materiais e métodos: Estudo retrospectivo que inclui 260 pacientes com diagnostico de insuficiência cardíaca aguda tratados no Hospital Universitário San Rafael da cidade de Tunja (Colômbia) entre janeiro de 2019 e janeiro de 2022. Foi construído um modelo de regressão de Cox utilizando análises univariada e bivariada para determinar os fatores associados à mortalidade intra-hospitalar. A inci-dência de mortalidade intra-hospitalar aos 10 dias, a readmissão e a duração do internamento foram determinados como resultados secundários. Resultados: A incidência de mortalidade intra-hospitalar aos 10 dias foi de 10%, a readmissão ocorreu em 21,2% dos pacientes e o tempo médio de internamento foi de 9,31 dias. Os fatores de risco estatis-ticamente significativos para a mortalidade intra-hospitalar foram a classificação clínica de Stevenson C ou L (HR: 3,2; IC: 1,12-9,39; p = 0,03) e a classe funcional do paciente na admissão NYHA III ou IV (HR: 2,76; IC: 1,02-7,53; p = 0,04). Conclusões: A classificação clínica C ou L de Stevenson e a classe funcional III ou IV da NYHA provaram ser fatores de risco independentes para a mortalidade intra-hospitalar. A identificação precoce destes pacientes é sugerida, uma vez que pode assegurar uma sobrevivência mais longa

Preoperative echocardiographic evaluation of cardiac systolic and diastolic function in liver transplant recipients with diabetes mellitus: a propensity-score matched analysis

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) increases risk of heart failure. It has been shown that diabetes leads to DM-cardiomyopathy, characterized by systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Pre-transplant diastolic dysfunction, has been associated with poor graft outcome and mortality. We assessed the hypothesis that end-stage liver disease (ESLD) patients with diabetes (DM-ESLD), have more advanced cardiac systolic and diastolic dysfunction, compared to ESLD patients without diabetes (Non DM-ESLD).METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated preoperative echocardiography of 1,319 consecutive liver transplant recipients (1,007 Non DM-ESLD vs. 312 DM-ESLD [23.7%]) January 2012–May 2016. Systolic and diastolic indices, such as left ventricular ejection fraction, transmital E/A ratio, tissue doppler s′, e′ velocity, and E/e′ ratio (index of left ventricular end-diastolic pressure), were compared using 1:2 propensity-score matching.RESULTS: DM-ESLD patients showed no differences in systolic indices of left ventricular ejection fraction and s′ velocity, whereas diastolic indices of E/A ratio ≤ 1 (49.0% vs. 40.2% P = 0.014), e′ velocity (median = 7.0 vs. 7.4 cm/s, P < 0.001) and E/e′ ratio (10.9 ± 3.2 vs. 10.1 ± 3.0, P < 0.001), showed worse diastolic function compare with Non DM-ESLD patients, respectively.CONCLUSIONS: DM-ESLD patients suffer higher degree of diastolic dysfunction compared with Non DM-ESLD patients. Based on this, careful preoperative screening for diastolic dysfunction in DM-ESLD patients is encouraged, because poor transplant outcomes have been noted in patients with preoperative diastolic dysfunction.

Impact of Rosuvastatin in Systolic Heart Failure among elderly patients- A randomized control clinical trial

Background: Patients with systolic heart failure have generally been excluded from statin trials. Acute coronary events are uncommon in this population, and statins have theoretical risks in these patients. Objective: To evaluate the impact of Rosuvastatin in patient of Systolic Heart Failure. Materials and methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted among 500 patients of at least 60 years of age with New York Heart Association class II, III, or IV ischemic, systolic heart failure. The patients were randomly allocated to accept 10 mg of rosuvastatin or placebo per day. The primary composite outcome was death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or nonfatal stroke. Epi-info was used for analysis. Results: As compared with the placebo group, patients in the rosuvastatin group had decreased levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P<0.001) and of high-sensitivity C-reactive (P<0.001). During a median follow-up of 30 months, the primary outcome occurred in 500 patients in the rosuvastatin group and 700 in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.92; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.83 to 1.02; P = 0.12. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the coronary outcome or death from cardiovascular causes. No excessive episodes of muscle-related or other adverse events occurred in the rosuvastatin group. Conclusions: Rosuvastatin did not reduce the primary outcome or the number of deaths from any cause in older patients with systolic heart failure, although the drug did reduce the number of cardiovascular hospitalizations.

Evaluation of left ventricular morphology and function related to complete left bundle branch block with cardiac magnetic resonance in patients with systolic heart failure / 中国介入心脏病学杂志

Objective To evaluate the left ventricular morphology and function related to complete left bundle branch block(CLBBB)in patients with systolic heart failure with cardiac magnetic resonance.Methods Thirteen consecutive patients with left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF)＜50％evaluated by echocardiography and CLBBB were included as the study group,and patients with other reasons leading to heart failure were excluded.During At the same period,patients with primary dilated cardiomyopathy were selected as the control group(n=19)whose age,sex and LVEF were matched with the study group.All patients received contrast magnetic resonance imaging examination.Results Left ventricular end-diastolic volume(LVEDV)in patients with CLBBB was(173.8±23.1)ml and left ventricular end-systolic volume(LVESV)was(123.1±18.7)ml,while LVEDV in patients without CLBBB was(247.9±60.7)ml and LVESV was(188.2±57.1)ml respectively.All LV measurements/indexes were smaller in patient with CLBBB when compared to the control(all P＞0.05).Right atrium area was also smaller in CLBBB patients(P=0.037).The maximal wall thickness in the patients with CLBBB [(8.3±1.4)mm] was thicker than that in the patients without CLBBB[(7.2±1.1)mm](P=0.016).Conclusions CLBBB may play an important role in the progress of heart failure and LV dilation may not have similar significant contribution with relative thicker ventricular wall.

Intoxicación por monóxido de carbono asociada a deterioro transitorio de la función sistólica del ventrículo izquierdo. Reporte de un caso / Carbon monoxide poisoning associated with transient deterioration of left ventricular systolic function. Case report

La intoxicación por monóxido de carbono (CO) es una forma común de envenenamiento en el mundo moderno. Sus consecuencias neurológicas están bien establecidas mientras que las manifestaciones cardiovasculares se limitan a la publicación de casos aislados o series de pacientes. Se presenta el caso de una mujer joven sin factores de riesgo ni antecedentes cardiovasculares conocidos que presentó deterioro transitorio de la función sistólica del ventrículo izquierdo tras una intoxicación severa por CO. Tras recibir el tratamiento convencional, la paciente evolucionó favorablemente y egresó sin presentar complicaciones.

Carbon monoxide poisoning associated with transient deterioration of left ventricular systolic function Case report Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a common form of intoxication in the modern world. While the neurological effects of CO are well established, information on the cardiovascular features of this condition is limited to cases series or reports. We present the case of a young woman with no known risk factors or cardiovascular disease who presented with transient deterioration of left ventricular systolic function after severe CO intoxication. After receiving standard care for CO poisoning, the patient evolved favorably and was discharged without complications.

Envenenamento por monóxido de carbono associada com disfunção transitória da função sistólica do ventrículo esquerdo Relato de caso O envenenamento por monóxido de carbono (CO) é uma forma comum de intoxicação no mundo moderno. Embora os efeitos neurológicos do CO estejam bem estabelecidos, informações sobre as características cardiovasculares desta condição são limitada a casos de séries ou relatórios. Apresentamos o caso de uma jovem sem fatores de risco nem antecedentes cardiovasculares conhecidos ou com doença que apresentou deterioração transitória da função sistólica do ventrículo esquerdo após intoxicação por CO grave. Depois de receber tratamento padrão para intoxicação por CO, o paciente evoluiu favoravelmente e recebeu alta sem complicações.

Renal sympathetic denervation for the treatment of hypertensive heart disease with systolic heart failure / 天津医药

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of renal sympathetic denervation (RDN) for hypertensive heart dis-ease combined with systolic heart failure. Methods Two patients (mean age 35 years) with hypertensive heart disease com-bined with systolic heart failure on maximal tolerated heart failure therapy underwent bilateral renal denervation. Echocar-diography, the six minute walk distance, renal function, glycosylated hemoglobin and NT-proBNP were assessed at baseline and 1 year after renal denervation. Results Renal artery angiography showed that no stenosis and dissection. After 1 year follow up, the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), six minute walk distance and NT-proBNP were significantly im-proved, and the size of left ventricular decreased. Conclusion RDN is effective and feasible for the treatment in patients with hypertensive heart disease and systolic heart failure.

Hallazgos ecocardiográficos en pacientes con preeclampsia en la Unidad de alta dependencia obstétrica en el Hospital Universitario de San José, 2012-2014 / Echographic findings in patients with pre-eclampsia see at the critical obstetrics unit of the San Jose Children's Teaching Hospital, 2012-2014

Objetivo: describir las alteraciones ecocardiográficas encontradas en pacientes con diagnóstico de preeclampsia severa.Materiales y métodos: estudio de corte transversal. Se describen los hallazgos ecocardiográficos en las pacientes con preeclampsia severa (PS), de acuerdo con los criterios del Congreso Americano de Obstetras y Ginecólogos, atendidas en un hospital universitario de referencia ubicado en Bogotá (Colombia), entre enero 1 de 2012 y junio 30 de 2014. Se excluyeron las pacientes con control adecuado de tensión arterial o con patología cardiaca estructural previa conocida. Se describen las variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y los hallazgos ecocardiográficos más frecuentes, globalmente y por momento de aparición. Se presentan los datos mediante estadística descriptiva.Resultados: se diagnosticaron 228 pacientes con PS. A 124 se les realizó ecocardiograma: en 8 de ellas el informe de ecocardiografía fue no concluyente. Se hallaron 78 pacientes (67 %) con alguna alteración. Los principales hallazgos fueron: hipertensión pulmonar leve, n = 34 (29 %); hipertrofia del ventrículo izquierdo, n = 32 (27 %); hipertensión pulmonar moderada, n = 21 (18 %); disfunción diastólica, n = 16 (13 %). Las pacientes con PS pretérmino (69 %) presentaron alteraciones ecocardiográficas más frecuentes que las pacientes a término (20 %) y que las que comenzaron con PS en el puerperio (11 %). La disfunción diastólica se presentó más en pacientes con preeclampsia que comenzó en el puerperio.Conclusiones: la prevalencia de alteraciones ecocardiográficas en PS es del 67 %, con mayor frecuencia de hipertensión pulmonar e hipertrofia ventricular izquierda. Se requieren más estudios que validen estos hallazgos regionalmente.

Objective: To describe echographic abnormalities found in patients diagnosed with severe preeclampsia.Materials and methods: Cross-sectional study describing ultrasound findings in patients with severe preeclampsia (SP) in accordance with the criteria of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. The patients were seen in a referral teaching hospital in Bogota (Colombia), between January 1, 2012 and June 30, 2014. Patients with adequate blood pressure control or with known pre-existing structural heart disease were excluded. Social, demographic and clinical variables are described, as well as the most frequent global echographic findings, also by time of onset. The data are presented using descriptive statistics.Results: Overall, 228 patients were diagnosed with SP. An echographic examination was performed in 124 and in 8 of them the echographic report was non-conclusive. Some form of abnormality was found in 78 patients (67 %). Mild pulmonary hypertension [n=34 (29 %)], left-ventricular hypertrophy [n=32 (27 %)], moderate pulmonary hy per tension [n=21 (18 %)] and diastolic dysfunction [n= 16 (13 %)] were the main findings observed. Echographic abnormalities were found more frequently in patients with pre-term SP (69 %) than in term patients (20 %) or those who developed SP during the post-partum period (11 %). Diastolic dysfunction was found to occur more frequently in patients who developed preeclampsia in the post-partum period.Conclusions: The prevalence of echographic abnormalities in SP is 67 %, the most frequent being pulmonary hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy. More studies are needed in order to validate these findings regionally.

Acute decompensated heart failure and acute kidney injury due to bilateral renal artery stenosis / 영남의대학술지

Atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis (RAS) may result in hypertension, azotemia, and acute pulmonary edema. We report on a renal angioplasty with stent placement for bilateral RAS in a patient with acute decompensated heart failure and acute kidney injury. A 67-year-old female patient was admitted to our hospital with acute shortness of breath and generalized edema. Echocardiography showed left ventricular wall motion abnormality and the follow up electrocardiography showed T wave inversion in the precordial leads. We performed a coronary angiography to differentiate ischemic heart disease from non-cardiac origin for the cause of the heart failure. The coronary angiography showed no significant luminal narrowing, but bilateral RAS was confirmed on the renal artery angiography, therefore, we performed renal artery revascularization. After the procedure, the pulmonary edema was improved and the serum creatinine was decreased. Two weeks later, an echocardiography showed improvement of the left ventricular systolic function.

Treatment of Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: Current Update / 대한내과학회지

The prevalence of heart failure (HF) has been steadily increasing and it now creates an enormous social and economic burden. HF is a syndrome characterized by a high mortality rate, frequent hospitalization, a reduced quality of life, and a complex therapeutic regimen. In the last three decades, major progress in both the diagnosis and management of HF has taken place, and the pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic advances have led to a significant improvement in survival and symptoms in HF patients. After an accurate diagnosis, a proper HF management plan requires a multi-level team approach comprised of the correct combination of drug therapy, device therapy, and surgery, including heart transplantation. In this review, we focused on the pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment strategies for HF with reduced ejection fraction. The goal was to develop treatment guidelines based on significant evidence derived from large clinical trials.

Síndrome cardio-renal-anemia en la insuficiencia cardíaca sistólica / Cardio-renal-anaemia syndrome in systolic heart failure

Introducción: en los últimos años ha surgido el término síndrome cardio-renal-anemia (SCRA) para explicar la asociación de insuficiencia cardíaca (IC), disfunción renal y anemia. Tanto la insuficiencia renal como la anemia son reconocidos factores de riesgo de morbimortalidad cardiovascular en la IC. El objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la prevalencia del SCRA y evaluar la asociación entre anemia y disfunción renal, en pacientes portadores de IC sistólica seguidos en forma ambulatoria. Metodología: estudio observacional y transversal de pacientes atendidos en una Unidad Multidisciplinaria de Insuficiencia Cardíaca (UMIC). Participaron en el estudio 339 pacientes. Criterios de inclusión: pacientes con IC sistólica, en condición estable, en ausencia de fracaso renal agudo. Se definió como IC sistólica una fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo (FEVI) < 40%. La función renal se evaluó mediante la estimación del filtrado glomerular (FG), por la ecuación del estudio Modification of Diet in Renal Disease, (MDRD). Se definió como insuficiencia renal (IR) a la presencia de un FG inferior a 60 ml/min/1,73 m2. Resultados: Los 339 pacientes tenían una edad media de 63,2 años con un predominio del sexo masculino (70,5%). El 34,8% de los pacientes tenían IR moderada, severa o falla renal y el 26,5% tenían anemia. La edad media fue mayor en la población con IR (65,7 años) que en el grupo sin IR (61 años) (p = 0,006). Un 27,1% del grupo con IR se encontraba en clase funcional (CF) III-IV en relación con un 12,2% de los pacientes con función renal normal (p < 0.0001). De los pacientes con IR, el 42,8% presentaron anemia, en comparación con un 18,1% del grupo con FG>60 ml/min/1,73 m2 (p < 0,0001). Se observó un fuerte aumento de la anemia por debajo de 35 ml/min/1,73 m2 de FG. (p < 0,001). La prevalencia del SCRA fue de 14,7%, asociándose con una CF más avanzada (p < 0,0001) y una menor FEVI (p = 0,042). Conclusiones: Dada la elevada prevalencia ...

Abstract: Introduction: The recently proposed term of cardio-renal-anemia syndrome (CRAS) stands for the association of heart failure (HF), renal dysfunction and anemia. Both renal failure and anemia are well recognized risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with HF. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of CRAS and assess the association between anemia and renal dysfunction in ambulatory systolic HF patients. Methods: 339 patients from a Multidisciplinary Heart Failure Unit enrolled in this observational cross-sectional study. Inclusion criteria were to have systolic HF in stable condition in the absence of acute renal failure. Systolic HF was defined by a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 40%. Renal function was evaluated though the glomerular filtration rate estimation according to the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study equation. Renal failure (RF) was defined by the presence of a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Results: The mean age of the patients was 63.2. A 70.5% of the total were male. The 34.8% of patients suffered from moderate to severe RF or renal failure, and 26.5% had anemia. The mean age was superior in the RF group (mean 65.7) in comparison with the group without RF (mean 61.0) (p = 0.006). A 27.1% of the RF group had a III-IV NYHA functional class (FC) in comparison with 12.2% of the patients with normal renal function (p < 0.0001). Among RF patients, 42.8% had anemia in comparison with 18.1 % in the group with GFR > 60 ml/min/1.73 m2 (p < 0.0001). A great increase of anemia was observed in patients below 30 ml/min of GFR (p < 0.001). The prevalence of CRAS was 14.7% and it presence was associated with more advanced FC (p < 0.0001) and less LVEF (p = 0.042). Conclusions: In view of the high prevalence of concomitant RF and anemia in patients with heart failure, exploration and early diagnosis of them is essential.

Diastolic function and functional capacity after a single session of continuous positive airway pressure in patients with compensated heart failure

OBJECTIVE: The effects of acute continuous positive airway pressure therapy on left ventricular diastolic function and functional capacity in patients with compensated systolic heart failure remain unclear. METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial included 43 patients with heart failure and a left ventricular ejection fraction <0.50 who were in functional classes I-III according to the New York Heart Association criteria. Twenty-three patients were assigned to continuous positive airway pressure therapy (10 cmH2O), while 20 patients received placebo with null pressure for 30 minutes. All patients underwent a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and Doppler echocardiography before and immediately after intervention. Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01088854. RESULTS: The groups had similar clinical and echocardiographic baseline variables. Variation in the diastolic function index (e′) after intervention was associated with differences in the distance walked in both groups. However, in the continuous positive airway pressure group, this difference was greater (continuous positive airway pressure group: Δ6MWT = 9.44+16.05×Δe′, p = 0.002; sham group: Δ6MWT = 7.49+5.38×Δe′; p = 0.015). There was a statistically significant interaction between e′ index variation and continuous positive airway pressure for the improvement of functional capacity (p = 0.020). CONCLUSIONS: Continuous positive airway pressure does not acurately change the echocardiographic indexes of left ventricle systolic or diastolic function in patients with compensated systolic heart failure. However, 30-minute continuous positive airway pressure therapy appears to have an effect on left ventricular diastolic function by increasing functional capacity. .

Assessment of Clinical Values on N-terminal Pro-brain Natriuretic Peptide in Elder Patients With Heart Failure / 中国循环杂志

Objective: To assess the clinical value of serum N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-ProBNP) values in elder patients with heart failure (HF). Methods: According to NYHA classiifcation, a total of 384 HF patients were divided into 4 groups as NYHA I group, n=35, NYHA II group, n=89, NYHA III group, n=163, NYHA IV group, n=97;and Control group, n=69 normal subjects. The NT-ProBNP and troponin (cTn1) levels were examined in systolic HF and diastolic HF patients, the relationship between NT-ProBNP and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) were studied. Results: For NT-ProBNP levels, Control group and NYHA I group were similar, P>0.05; while it was different among each HF groups, P0.05;while NYHA III group and NYHA IV group were different from other groups, P Conclusion: NT-ProBNP may better reflect the cardiac structural and functional changes in HF patients, it is important for HF early diagnosis and prognosis in clinical practice.

Progress on the treatment of children's systolic heart failure by positive inotropic drugs / 中国小儿急救医学

Heart failure is a common critical disease in children.Systolic heart failure can be caused by common diseases in children such as congenital heart disease,fulminant myocarditis and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy.Positive inotropic drug is the most common medication for treating systolic heart failure in children.Common inotropic drug includes digitalis,β-receptor agonist,phosphodiesterase inhibitor and calcium sensitizers.This article reviewed the using and progress of positive inotopic drugs.

Estrategias de tratamiento del paciente con hipertensión arterial esencial: Perfil neurohormonal y geometría ventricular izquierda

La geometría ventricular izquierda, determinada por ecocardiografía bidimensional, proporciona de manera indirecta información sobre el perfil hemodinámico y neurohormonal del paciente hipertenso. En dos estudios pilotos, llevados a cabo en el Instituto de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares de la Universidad de Los Andes hemos utilizado al patrón geométrico como guía para orientar el tratamiento farmacológico del paciente hipertenso. La correspondencia de la estrategia farmacológica con el mecanismo neurohormonal, responsable de la hipertensión arterial, permite un control de la presión arterial con menor número de medicamentos y reduce la incidencia de efectos colaterales y complicaciones. Más aún, el proceso de remodelación cardiaca puede ser influenciado favorable o desfavorablemente, si la estrategia terapéutica empleada se corresponde o no con el mecanismo neurohormonal subyacente. El proceso de remodelación cardiaca, en la transición hacia los dos fenotipos de insuficiencia cardiaca congestiva, se caracteriza por modificaciones opuestas de la geometría y función ventricular. Los pacientes que evolucionan hacia la insuficiencia cardiaca sistólica experimentan una progresiva dilatación de las cavidades cardiacas izquierdas y disminución de la función sistólica. Por el contrario, en los pacientes que evolucionan hacia la insuficiencia cardiaca diastólica, el tamaño de las cavidades cardiacas se reduce y la relajación ventricular se altera.

The neurohormonal and hemodynamic profiles, of uncomplicated hypertensive patients, can be inferred from the left ventricular geometric pattern. We have used the left ventricular geometric pattern to guide the pharmacological treatment of hypertensive patients. Blood pressure control can be achieved with less medications and complications and adverse effects are reduced with a therapeutic strategy aimed at the underlying neurohormonal and hemodynamic profiles. On the contrary, cardiac remodelling is unfavorably influenced by a therapeutic strategy unmatched to the underlying responsable mechanisms. During transition to the two phenotypes of congestive heart failure, cardiac remodelling evolves in opposite directions. Thus, patients with systolic heart failure undergo progressive ventricular dilatation with thinning of its walls, where as, diastolic heart failure patients are characterized by shrinking of their left ventricular cavities with increasing relative wall thickness.

Investigation on the prevalence and related factors of medicinal therapy in patients with chronic svstolic heart failure / 中华流行病学杂志

Objective To investigate the prevalence and related factors of medicinal therapy in patients with chronic systolic heart failure (CSHF).Methods Data on in-hospital patients with CSHF were studied from 12 hospitals in Hubei province,in 2000 and 2010.Differences on gender and age were calculated and Multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to determinate the independent risk factors of all-cause mortality.Results (1) 16 681 patients were enrolled in this study.Among which,6453 died during the 5.82 ± 1.63 years of follow-up.The annual medical expenditure was larger in the survival group than in the dead ones (3.19 ± 0.65 vs.3.32 ± 0.57,P＜0.01).(2)The prevalence of Angiotensin Ⅱ receptor blocker increased along with age which accounted as 7.73％,7.35％,12.26％,14.29％,17.19％,19.87％ and 20.49％,respectively,in the ＜30,30-39,40-49,50-59,60-69,70-79 and ≥80-year groups.The distribution of digitalis,diuretics,β-receptor blocker,Angiorensin- converting enzyke inhibitors showed inversed U shape.(3)The annual medical expenditure increased as patients got older,with age groups ＜30,30-39,40-49,50-59,60-69 and 70-79 years old as 2.96 ± 0.70,3.09 ± 0.62,3.15 ± 0.58,3.30 ± 0.59 and 3.25 ±0.58,respectively (P＜0.01).It reduced to the same level as in the 50-59 year-old group.The distribution of annual medical expenditure showed similar pattern in males.However,the trends were only found in patients at 50-59,60-69,70-79 and ≥80 years-old groups in female.Conclusion More attention should be paid to medicinal therapy in patients with CSHF.Medicinal therapy shifted with age and gender,of which females had more adverse trend than in males.