Feasibility of Goal-Directed Fluid Therapy in Patients with Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement - An Ambispective Analysis

ABSTRACT Introduction: Goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) has been shown to reduce postoperative complications. The feasibility of GDFT in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) patients under general anesthesia has not yet been demonstrated. We examined whether GDFT could be applied in patients undergoing TAVR in general anesthesia and its impact on outcomes. Methods: Forty consecutive TAVR patients in the prospective intervention group with GDFT were compared to 40 retrospective TAVR patients without GDFT. Inclusion criteria were age ≥ 18 years, elective TAVR in general anesthesia, no participation in another interventional study. Exclusion criteria were lack of ability to consent study participation, pregnant or nursing patients, emergency procedures, preinterventional decubitus, tissue and/or extremity ischemia, peripheral arterial occlusive disease grade IV, atrial fibrillation or other severe heart rhythm disorder, necessity of usage of intra-aortic balloon pump. Stroke volume and stroke volume variation were determined with uncalibrated pulse contour analysis and optimized according to a predefined algorithm using 250 ml of hydroxyethyl starch. Results: Stroke volume could be increased by applying GDFT. The intervention group received more colloids and fewer crystalloids than control group. Total volume replacement did not differ. The incidence of overall complications as well as intensive care unit and hospital length of stay were comparable between both groups. GDFT was associated with a reduced incidence of delirium. Duration of anesthesia was shorter in the intervention group. Duration of the interventional procedure did not differ. Conclusion: GDFT in the intervention group was associated with a reduced incidence of postinterventional delirium.

Research progress of visualization methods and localization techniques of the cardiac conduction system / 中国胸心血管外科临床杂志

@#The cardiac conduction system (CCS) is a set of specialized myocardial pathways that spontaneously generate and conduct impulses transmitting throughout the heart, and causing the coordinated contractions of all parts of the heart. A comprehensive understanding of the anatomical characteristics of the CCS in the heart is the basis of studying cardiac electrophysiology and treating conduction-related diseases. It is also the key of avoiding damage to the CCS during open heart surgery. How to identify and locate the CCS has always been a hot topic in researches. Here, we review the histological imaging methods of the CCS and the specific molecular markers, as well as the exploration for localization and visualization of the CCS. We especially put emphasis on the clinical application prospects and the future development directions of non-destructive imaging technology and real-time localization methods of the CCS that have emerged in recent years.

Método rápido para determinar el eje cardíaco con D1 y D3 / Fast method to determine the cardiac axis with D1 and D3

El eje cardíaco representa el promedio de la dirección del proceso de activación eléctrica de las células cardíacas, es uno de los parámetros que debe determinarse en la correcta lectura e interpretación del electrocardiograma y es útil no solo como criterio diagnóstico de cardiopatías, sino también como marcador de pronóstico y mortalidad de otras enfermedades. Con el paso de los años han surgido nuevas fórmulas que permiten calcular con mayor exactitud su valor. El método que utiliza D1 y aVF es uno de los más populares, sin embargo, presenta dos puntos no medibles. El primero es entre 0 y -30 grados, y el segundo entre los valores de 90 y 110 grados. Aunque existen propuestas con algoritmos que utilizan otras derivaciones, se exploró un método alternativo con D1 y D3 basados en la fórmula algebraica de la tangente inversa y método matemático para el cálculo exacto del eje cardíaco. Se destaca este como una propuesta de método rápido que mantiene la confiabilidad de la fórmula algebraica para determinar si el eje cardíaco se encuentra dentro de los rangos normales (-30 a 110 grados)

The cardiac axis represents the average of the direction of the electrical activation process of the cardiac cells. It is one of the parameters determined in the correct reading and interpretation of the electrocardiogram. Also, not only is it useful as a diagnostic criterion for heart disease but also as a marker of prognosis and mortality in other diseases. Over the years, new formulas have emerged that allow its value to be calculated more accurately. The method using D1 and aVF is one of the most popular. However, it has two unmeasurable points. The first is between 0 and -30 degrees, and the second is between the values of 90 and 110 degrees. Although there are proposals with algorithms that use other leads, an alternative method was explored with D1 and D3 based on the algebraic formula of the inverse tangent and mathematical method for the exact calculation of the cardiac axis. A quick method is proposed that maintains the reliability of the algebraic formula to determine if the cardiac axis is within the normal ranges (-30 to 110 degrees)

Relationship of the T-wave Tpeak-Tend interval with conduction system disorders in arterial hypertension / Relación del intervalo Tpico-Tfinal de la onda T con trastornos del sistema de conducción en hipertensión arterial

Abstract Purpose: The Tpeak-Tend interval of the T wave has emerged as a new electrocardiographic marker of increased transmural dispersion of ventricular repolarization. We aimed to determine the presence of cardiac conduction system disorders in patients with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) who have altered Tpeak-Tend interval of the T wave. Methods: The 67 patients with SAH were divided into two groups. Those with prolonged (≥ 77 ms) Tpeak-Tend intervals, 21 (31%) patients were in the study group. Those with normal (< 77 ms) Tpeak-Tend intervals, 46 (69%) patients were in the control group. Alteration of ventricular repolarization manifested as a prolongation of the Tpeak-Tend interval was detected by computerized electrocardiographic analysis tools. Results: The median value of QRS complex duration was significantly wider in the study group as compared to the control group (110 ± 12 ms vs. 94 ± 8 ms p < 0.001). There was a significantly greater incidence of left anterior hemiblock in the study group (14% vs. 0% p < 0.04). The median value of the QTc interval was significantly greater in the study group (440 ± 26 vs. 422 ± 15 p < 0.01). There was a significantly greater incidence of patients with prolonged QTc interval in the study group (33% vs. 11% p < 0.02). The median value of the Tpeak-Tend interval was significantly greater in the study group (84 ± 5 ms vs. 65 ± 4 ms p < 0.001), as well as, the Tpeak-Tend/QTc ratio in the study group (0.19 ± 0.1 vs. 0.16 ± 0.1 p < 0.001). Conclusion: There is a significantly greater ventricular repolarization disorders and abnormalities of the cardiac conduction system in SAH patients who possess altered Tpeak-Tend interval of the T wave.

Resumen Objetivo: El intervalo Tpico-Tfinal de la onda T es un marcador electrocardiográfico de la dispersión transmural aumentada de la repolarización ventricular. Investigamos la presencia de trastornos del sistema de conducción cardíaca en pacientes con hipertensión arterial sistémica (HA) que poseen alterado el intervalo Tpico-Tfinal de la onda T. Métodos: Los 67 pacientes con HA fueron divididos en dos grupos. Aquellos con intervalos de Tpico-Tfinal prolongados (≥ 77 ms), 21 (31%) pacientes (grupo de estudio). Aquellos con intervalos normales (< 77 ms) Tpico-Tfinal, 46 (69%) pacientes (grupo control). Los intervalos Tpico-Tfinal fueron medidos por herramientas de análisis electrocardiográfico computarizado. Resultados: El valor mediano de la duración del complejo QRS fue significativamente más amplio en el grupo de estudio (110 ± 12 ms vs. 94 ± 8 ms p < 0.001). Hubo una incidencia significativamente mayor de hemibloqueo anterior izquierdo en el grupo de estudio (14% vs. 0% p < 0.04). El valor mediano del intervalo QTc fue significativamente mayor en el grupo de estudio (440 ± 26 vs. 422 ± 15 p < 0.01). Hubo una incidencia significativamente mayor de pacientes con intervalo QTc prolongado en el grupo de estudio (33% vs. 11% p < 0.02). El valor mediano del intervalo Tpico-Tfinal fue significativamente mayor en el grupo de estudio (84 ± 5 ms vs. 65 ± 4 ms p < 0.001), así como el cociente Tpico-Tfinal/QTc (0.19 ± 0.1 vs. 0.16 ± 0.1 p < 0.001). Conclusión: Existe una alteración de la repolarización ventricular significativamente mayor y anomalías del sistema de conducción cardíaca en pacientes con HA que poseen alteración del intervalo Tpico-Tfinal de la onda T.

Repercusiones cardíacas en pacientes con pectus excavatum: puesta al día. Segunda parte / Cardiac repercussions in patients with pectus excavatum: update. Part two / Repercussões cardíacas em pacientes com pectus excavatum: atualização. Parte dois

El pectus excavatum (PEX) es una deformación de la pared torácica que obedece a una alteración de los cartílagos costales con el consiguiente hundimiento del esternón. Históricamente, se clasificaba como un defecto únicamente estético o cosmético, sin embargo, en los últimos años se han desarrollado nuevos métodos de estudio para la valoración de las repercusiones de esta patología. Existe cada vez más bibliografía que demuestra importantes repercusiones funcionales. Se realizó una puesta al día de las repercusiones cardíacas de la patología y un análisis de los artículos más relevantes de los últimos años. La evidencia actual permite afirmar que existe una afectación cardíaca por compresión esternal en la mayoría de los pacientes con PEX. Las afectaciones incluyen alteraciones anatomofuncionales (trastornos del ritmo, disminución del llenado ventricular), del volumen sistólico, aumento de la presión de la aurícula derecha, valvulopatías, compresión del ventrículo derecho, derrame pericárdico, entre otras. Todo lo cual permite concluir que el PEX puede presentar importantes alteraciones cardíacas que deben ser tenidas en cuenta a la hora de valorar los pacientes con esta patología.

Pectus excavatum (PEX) is a deformation of the chest wall caused by an alteration of the costal cartilages with the consequent collapse of the sternum. Historically, it had been classified as a solely aesthetic or cosmetic defect, however, in recent years new study methods have been developed to assess the repercussions of this pathology, with increasing bibliography showing important functional consequences. We updated the cardiac pathological repercussions and analyzed the most relevant articles of recent years. The current evidence suggests that there is cardiac involvement due to sternal compression in most patients with PEX. These affectations include anatomical functional alterations: rhythm disorders, decreased ventricular filling, decreased stroke volume, increased right atrial pressure, valve disease, right ventricular compression, pericardial effusion, among others. All of which enables us to conclude that PEX can present important cardiac alterations that must be taken into account when assessing patients with this pathology.

Pectus excavatum (PEX) é uma deformação da parede torácica decorrente de uma alteração das cartilagens costais com consequente colapso do esterno. Historicamente, foi classificado como um defeito exclusivamente estético ou cosmético, porém, nos últimos anos, novos métodos de estudo foram desenvolvidos para avaliar as repercussões dessa patologia, com crescente bibliografia mostrando importantes repercussões funcionais. Foi realizada uma atualização das repercussões cardíacas da patologia e análise dos artigos mais relevantes dos últimos anos. As evidências atuais permitem afirmar que há acometimento cardíaco por compressão esternal na maioria dos pacientes com PEX. As afecções incluem alterações anatomofuncionais: distúrbios do ritmo, diminuição do enchimento ventricular, diminuição do volume sistólico, aumento da pressão atrial direita, doença valvular, compressão do ventrículo direito, derrame pericárdico, entre outras. Tudo isso permite concluir que o PEX pode apresentar alterações cardíacas importantes que devem ser levadas em consideração na avaliação de pacientes com essa patologia.

Dependência de Pacing a Longo-Prazo e Preditores de Implante de Pacemaker após Implante Percutâneo de Prótese Valvular Aórtica - 1 Ano de Seguimento / Long-Term Ventricular Pacing Dependency and Pacemaker Implantation Predictors after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement - A 1-Year Follow-Up

Resumo Fundamento Os distúrbios de condução (DC) são a complicação mais frequente após a substituição da válvula aórtica transcateter (TAVR) e ainda não há consenso sobre seu tratamento. Objetivo Avaliar novos DC e implante de marca-passo definitivo (MPD) após a TAVR e avaliar a porcentagem de estimulação ventricular (EV) até 1 ano de acompanhamento. Métodos Pacientes submetidos a TAVR de outubro de 2014 a novembro de 2019 foram cadastrados; pacientes com MPD anterior foram excluídos. Dados clínicos, do procedimento, do ECG e do MPD foram coletados até 1 ano após o implante. O nível de significância adotado para a análise estatística foi 0,05%. Resultados Um total de 340 indivíduos foram submetidos a TAVR. O DC mais comum foi bloqueio de ramo esquerdo novo (BRE; 32,2%), sendo que 56% destes foram resolvidos após 6 meses. O bloqueio do ramo direito (BRD) foi o maior fator de risco para bloqueio atrioventricular avançado (BAV) [RC=8,46; p<0,001] e implante de MPD [RC=5,18; p<0,001], seguido de BAV de baixo grau prévio [RC=2,25; p=0,016 para implante de MPD]. Em relação às características do procedimento, válvulas de gerações mais recentes e procedimentos de válvula-em-válvula foram associados a menos DC. No total, 18,5% dos pacientes tiveram MPD implantado após a TAVR. Na primeira avaliação do MPD, pacientes com BAV avançado tinham uma porcentagem mediana de EV de 80%, e, após um ano, de 83%. Em relação aos pacientes com BRE e BAV de baixo grau, a EV mediana foi mais baixa (6% na primeira avaliação, p=0,036; 2% após um ano, p = 0,065). Conclusão O BRE foi o DC mais frequente após a TAVR, com mais da metade dos casos se resolvendo nos primeiros 6 meses. O BRD foi o principal fator de risco para BAV avançado e implante de MPD. O BAV avançado foi associado a uma porcentagem mais alta de EV no acompanhamento de 1 ano.

Abstract Background Conduction disturbances (CD) are the most frequent complication after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), and there continues to be a lack of consensus on their management. Objective To assess new CD and permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation after TAVR and to evaluate the ventricular pacing percentage (VP) up to 1 year of follow-up. Methods Patients who underwent TAVR from October 2014 to November 2019 were enrolled; patients with previous PPM were excluded. Clinical, procedure, ECG, and PPM data were collected up to 1 year after implantation. The significance level adopted in the statistical analysis was 0.05. Results A total of 340 patients underwent TAVR. The most frequent CD was the new left bundle branch block (LBBB; 32.2%), which 56% resolved after 6 months. Right bundle branch block (RBBB) was the biggest risk factor for advanced atrioventricular block (AVB) [OR=8.46; p<0.001] and PPM implantation [OR=5.18, p<0.001], followed by previous low-grade AVB [OR=2.25; p=0.016 for PPM implantation]. Regarding procedure characteristics, newer generation valves and valve-in-valve procedures were associated with fewer CDs. Overall, 18.5% of patients had a PPM implanted post-TAVR. At first PPM evaluation, patients with advanced AVB had a median percentage of VP of 80% and 83% at one year. Regarding patients with LBBB plus low-grade AVB, median VP was lower (6% at first assessment, p=0.036; 2% at one year, p = 0.065). Conclusion LBBB was the most frequent CD after TAVR, with more than half being resolved in the first six months. RBBB was the major risk factor for advanced AVB and PPM implantation. Advanced AVB was associated with a higher percentage of VP at 1 year of follow-up.

Asociación entre interleuquinas inflamatorias y la presencia de trastornos intraventriculares de la conducción en pacientes con serología positiva para enfermedad de Chagas y función ventricular conservada / Association between inflammatory interleukins and intraventricular conduction disturbances in patients with positive serology for Chagas disease and preserved ventricular function

RESUMEN Introducción: Los trastornos intraventriculares de la conducción constituyen una manifestación habitual en los pacientes con enfermedad de Chagas con función ventricular izquierda conservada. Se desconoce si su presencia puede estar asociada a una mayor actividad inflamatoria. Objetivos: Determinar si existe una correlación entre los niveles de interleuquinas y la presencia de trastornos intraventriculares de la conducción en pacientes con serología positiva para enfermedad de Chagas y fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda conservada. Material y métodos: Se evaluó a 22 pacientes con edades comprendidas entre 21 y 80 años, seropositivos para enfermedad de Chagas, de más de 20 años de evolución y fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda mayor del 50%. Se analizó, además, un grupo control de 14 individuos sanos. Se determinaron las concentraciones en plasma de IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), IL-15, IL-17A, MCP-1/CCL2, MIP-1 a/CCL3, TNF-a e IL-2. Se consideró trastornos intraventriculares de la conducción a la presencia de bloqueo de rama derecha, hemibloqueo anterior izquierdo o bloqueo de rama izquierda. Resultados: De los 22 pacientes con serología positiva para enfermedad de Chagas, 10 presentaron trastornos de la intraventriculares de la conducción (45,4%). En el grupo con trastornos intraventriculares de la conducción, se observaron niveles elevados de interleuquinas de alto efecto inflamatorio como INF-γ, IL-15, IL-2 (p70), IL-12, MP1-a, en comparación al grupo control, además de presentar altos valores de IL-10 como mecanismo modulador de una respuesta inmunitaria excesiva. Conclusiones: La asociación entre niveles elevados de interleuquinas y la presencia de trastornos intraventriculares de la conducción plantea un posible proceso inflamatorio crónico para su desarrollo en pacientes chagásicos con fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda conservada.

ABSTRACT Background: Intraventricular conduction disturbances are common in patients with Chagas disease and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, but their association with higher inflammatory activity is unknown. Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the presence of an association between interleukin levels and intraventricular conduction disturbances in patients with positive serology for Chagas disease and preserved left ventricular function. Methods: Twenty-two patients between 22 and 80 years of age with positive serology test for Chagas disease with more than 20 years progression and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥50% were included in the study and compared with a control group of 14 healthy individuals. Plasma levels of IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12 (p70), IL-15, IL-17A, MCP-1/CCL2, MIP-1 a/CCL3, TNF-a and IL-2 were measured in patients and controls. Right bundle branch block, left anterior hemiblock or left bundle branch block were considered intraventricular conduction disturbances. Results: Among the 22 patients with positive serology for Chagas disease, 10 presented intraventricular conduction disturbances (45.4%). This group had elevated levels of interleukins with high inflammatory effect such as INF-γ, IL-15, IL-2, IL-12, MIP-1 a, compared with the control group, and high levels of IL-10 as a regulatory mechanism of an excessive immune response. Conclusions: The association between elevated levels of inflammatory interleukins and intraventricular conduction disturbances suggests that chronic inflammation may play a role in the development of these abnormalities in patients with positive serology for Chagas disease and preserved left ventricular ejection function.

Syncope in patients with cardiac pacemakers

Abstract Introduction: It is challenging to diagnose syncope in patients with pacemakers. Because these patients have increased morbidity and mortality risks, they require immediate attention to determine the causes in order to provide appropriate treatment. This study aimed to investigate the causes and predictive factors of syncope as well as the methods used to diagnose syncope in cardiac pacemaker patients. Methods: Patients with pacemakers implanted owing to sinus node disease or atrioventricular block were evaluated with standardized questionnaires, endocavitary electrograms, and other tests based on the suspected causes of syncope. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to analyze continuous variables and Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests were used for categorical variables. Logistic regression was used for multivariate analyses. Statistical significance was P<0.05. Results: The study included 95 patients with pacemakers: 47 experienced syncope in the last 12 months and 48 did not. Of the 100 documented episodes of syncope, 48.9% were vasovagal syncopes, 17% had cardiac-related causes, 10.6% had unknown causes, and 8.5% had pacemaker failure. The multivariate analysis showed that a New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Class II was a significant factor for developing syncope (P<0.01). Conclusion: While the most common type of syncope in pacemaker patients was neurally mediated, it is important to perform detailed evaluations in this population as the causes of syncope can be life-threatening. The best diagnostic methods were stored electrogram analysis and the tilt table test. NYHA Functional Class II patients were found to have a higher risk for syncope.

Bloqueo de rama alternante: reporte de una complicación inusual tras implante valvular aórtico transcatéter / Alternating bundle branch block: report of an unusual complication after transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Resumen Los trastornos de la conducción representan una potencial complicación de los reemplazos valvulares percutáneos. Los bloqueos alternantes de rama, aunque son inusuales, reflejan daño extenso del sistema His Purkinje con riesgo potencial de bloqueo auriculoventricular completo, por lo cual es importante su identificación y abordaje oportuno. Se presenta el caso de una paciente femenina de 82 años con múltiples comorbilidades y estenosis aórtica severa, en seguimiento médico desde hacía un año, en quien no se había realizado reemplazo quirúrgico por negativa de la paciente y por el alto riesgo intraoperatorio. Ingresó a la institución con un cuadro clínico de disnea progresiva de un mes de evolución, se realizó ecocardiograma transtorácico documentando estenosis aórtica crítica y fue llevada a implante valvular aórtico percutáneo. Por el alto riesgo de necesidad de marcapasos peri o postprocedimiento, se realizó seguimiento con monitoreo Holter, documentando bloqueo alternante de rama, el cual no progresó a bloqueo auriculoventricular completo luego de 72 horas de seguimiento, por lo que no se implantó marcapasos permanente. MÉD.UIS.2020;33(3): 37-42

Abstract Conduction disorders represent a potential complication of percutaneous valve replacements. Alternating bundle branch block, although unusual, reflect extensive damage of the His-Purkinje system with potential risk of complete atrioventricular block, therefore, its identification and timely approach is important. We present the case of an 82 years old female patient with multiple comorbidities and a medical history of severe aortic stenosis in medical follow-up for a year, in whom surgical replacement had not been conducted due to the patient's refusal and to the high surgical risk. She was admitted to the institution referring one month of progressive shortness of breath and an echocardiogram documented critical aortic stenosis. Percutaneous aortic valve implantation was performed. Due to her high risk of needing a peri or post-procedure pacemaker, Holter monitoring was performed, documenting alternating bundle branch block, which did not progress to complete atrioventricular block after 72 hours of follow-up, in consequence, a permanent pacemaker was not implanted. MÉD.UIS.2020;33(3): 37-42

Anatomopathological changes in canine distemper seropositive dogs and virus detection in sinoatrial nodes / Alterações anatomopatológicas em cães soropositivos para cinomose e detecção de vírus em nódulos sinoatriais

Canine distemper is a viral disease that affects several systems on dogs, among them, the cardiovascular system. The aim of this study was to identify canine distemper virus (CDV) in the sinoatrial node (SAN) of dogs serologically positive for distemper by Polymerase Chain Reaction preceded by reverse transcription (RT-PCR), and to analyze gross and microscopic changes of distemper in the heart and other tissues. SAN and tissue fragments were collected from 17 serologically positive dead animals, necropsied from October 2015 to December 2016. In the heart, right heart dilatation was observed in 13 dogs (76.47%) and left concentric hypertrophy in two dogs (11.76%). Microscopically, lymphocytic myocarditis was observed in four (23.53%) dogs and 41.18% presented viral inclusion corpuscles of CDV in the bladder epithelium. Only one (5.88%) dog presented a 319 bp target fragment for distemper virus using primers CDV 1 and CDV 2 at the sinoatrial node. In conclusion, CDV can be located in the sinoatrial node of naturally infected dogs, as demonstrated in this study by the RT-PCR technique, reinforcing the hypothesis that CDV is capable of causing inflammatory lesions in the sinoatrial node of this species. Macroscopic and microscopic cardiac changes are frequently observed in dogs with distemper, mainly cardiac dilatation and myocarditis. Viral inclusions of CDV in bladder epithelial cells are an important microscopic finding for the diagnosis of distemper.

A cinomose canina é uma doença viral que afeta vários sistemas, dentre eles o cardiovascular. Objetivou-se identificar o vírus da cinomose canina no nó sinoatrial (NSA) de cães sorologicamente positivos para cinomose, através da reação em cadeia da polimerase, precedida de transcrição reversa (RT-PCR), além de analisar os achados macroscópicos e histológicos da cinomose no coração e outros tecidos. Foram coletados fragmentos de tecidos e do NSA de 17 cães sorologicamente positivos para cinomose que vieram a óbito e foram necropsiados no período de outubro de 2015 a dezembro de 2016. No coração observou-se dilatação cardíaca direita em 76,47% dos cães e hipertrofia concêntrica esquerda em 11,76% dos cães. Microscopicamente observou-se miocardite linfocítica em 23,53% dos cães e 41,18% apresentou corpúsculos de inclusão viral no epitélio vesical. Somente um (5,88%) cão apresentou fragmento alvo de 319 bp para cinomose utilizando os primers VCC1 e VCC2, no nó sinoatrial. Conclui-se que o VCC pode localizar-se no nó sinoatrial de cães naturalmente infectados, como demonstrados neste estudo pela técnica de RT-PCR, reforçando a hipótese de que o VCC é capaz de provocar lesões inflamatórias no nó sinoatrial dessa espécie. Alterações cardíacas macroscópicas e microscópicas, principalmente dilatação cardíaca e miocardite, são frequentemente observadas em cães com cinomose. Inclusões virais nas células epiteliais da bexiga são importantes achados microscópicos para diagnóstico da cinomose.

Asociación de la dilatación auricular izquierda con los trastornos del sistema de conducción en pacientes con hipertensión arterial sistémica / Association of left atrial dilatation with conduction system disorders in patients with systemic arterial hypertension

La dilatación de la aurícula izquierda (AI) se considera un predictor ecocardiográfico para la remodelación auricular y la fibrilación auricular. Por ende, hemos investigado la correlación existente entre la dilatación de la AI con las arritmias cardíacas y los trastornos del sistema de conducción en pacientes con hipertensión arterial (HTA). En este estudio observacional y prospectivo hemos investigado las variaciones electrocardiográficas, mediciones ecocardiográficas y Holter ECG de 24 hs en pacientes hipertensos y no hipertensos ambulatoria y hospitalizados que acuden a un hospital terciario entre marzo a septiembre del 2018. Se estudiaron 104 pacientes, 65 hipertensos conocidos y 39 no hipertensos como grupo control. El diámetro promedio de la AI fue significativamente mayor (p=0,03) en pacientes hipertensos que los no hipertensos (37±8 mm vs. 34±5 mm). Se encontró una asociación significativa entre hipertensión y la aurícula izquierda dilatada (>40 mm) (p= 0,026 OR: 3,25 IC95%: 1,01-11,02). La dilatación de la AI tuvo una especificidad de 73% y un valor predictivo negativo de 98% relacionado con la presencia de trastornos del sistema de conducción y arritmias cardiacas en pacientes con HTA. Se encontró asociación entre la hipertensión arterial y la dilatación de la aurícula izquierda. La dilatación de la aurícula izquierda tiene una elevada especificidad y un alto valor predictivo negativo en la detección de la presencia de prolongación del intervalo QT, ensanchamiento del complejo QRS, dispersión de la onda P, y trastornos del sistema de conducción y arritmias cardiacas en pacientes con hipertensión arterial(AU)

Dilation of the left atrium (LA) is considered an echocardiographic predictor for atrial remodeling and atrial fibrillation. Therefore, we have investigated the correlation between dilatation of the LA with cardiac arrhythmias and conduction system disorders in patients with systemic arterial hypertension. In this observational and prospective study we have investigated electrocardiographic variations, echocardiographic measurements and Holter ECG of 24 hours in hypertensive patients who attend a tertiary hospital from March 2018 to September 2018 as outpatients and inpatients. One hundred four patients were studied, 65 known to be hypertensive and 39 non-hypertensive subjects as control group. The diameter of the LA ​​had a mean value of 37±8 in hypertensive patients, while in non-hypertensive patients was 34±5 ​​(p = 0.03). A significant association was found between hypertension and increased diameter of the LA (p = 0.04 OR: 2.6 CI 0.88-7.7). Dilatation of the LA had a specificity of 73% and a negative predictive value of 98% related to the presence of conduction system disorders and cardiac arrhythmias in patients with hypertension. A significant relationship between arterial hypertension and dilatation of the left atrium was observed. The dilatation of the left atrium has a high specificity and a high negative predictive value in the detection of the presence of prolongation of the QT interval, widening of the QRS complex, dispersion of the P wave, and disorders of the conduction system and cardiac arrhythmias in patients with hypertension(AU)

Importancia de la sincronía aurículo-ventricular para el gasto cardíaco en un paciente con insuficiencia cardíaca y fracción de eyección reducida / Importance of atrioventricular synchrony for cardiac output in a patient with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction

RESUMEN Hombre de 80 años de edad, con antecedentes de miocardiopatía dilatada de origen isquémico, con disfunción sisto-diastólica del ventrículo izquierdo, que inicialmente presentó flutter auricular con inestabilidad hemodinámica y se realizó cardioversión eléctrica, luego de la cual se obtuvo un ritmo no precedido de onda P a 40 latidos por minuto, que fue interpretado como fibrilación auricular bloqueada; razón por la que se le colocó un marcapasos externo. Durante su evolución se realizó electrocardiograma de 12 derivaciones, donde se evidenció estimulación ventricular permanente con conducción retrógrada (ventrículo-auricular). Se disminuyó la frecuencia de estimulación para priorizar el ritmo espontáneo del paciente y se obtuvo marcada mejoría de la curva de presión arterial.

ABSTRACT An 80-year-old male patient is presented, with previous dilated cardiomyopathy of ischemic etiology, with systo-diastolic left ventricular dysfunction, who initially presented atrial flutter and hemodynamic instability, thus, an electrical cardioversion was performed. After this procedure, a blocked atrial fibrillation was observed. Thus, an external pacemaker was placed. During the evolution, a 12 lead electrocardiogram was performed, showing permanent ventricular stimulation with retrograde conduction (ventriculo-atrial). The pacing rate was diminished for prioritizing the patient's spontaneous rhythm resulting in an improvement of the blood pressure curve.

Prognostic Implication of Ventricular Conduction Disturbance Pattern in Hospitalized Patients with Acute Heart Failure Syndrome

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Conflicting data exist regarding the prognostic implication of ventricular conduction disturbance pattern in patients with heart failure (HF). This study investigated the prognostic impact of ventricular conduction pattern in hospitalized patients with acute HF. METHODS: Data from the Korean Acute Heart Failure registry were used. Patients were categorized into four groups: narrow QRS (<120 ms), right bundle branch block (RBBB), left bundle branch block (LBBB), and nonspecific intraventricular conduction delay (NICD). The NICD was defined as prolonged QRS (≥120 ms) without typical features of LBBB or RBBB. The primary endpoint was the composite of all-cause mortality or rehospitalization for HF aggravation within 1 year after discharge. RESULTS: This study included 5,157 patients. The primary endpoint occurred in 39.7% of study population. The LBBB group showed the highest incidence of primary endpoint followed by NICD, RBBB, and narrow QRS groups (52.5% vs. 49.7% vs. 44.4% vs. 37.5%, p<0.001). In a multivariable Cox-proportional hazards regression analysis, LBBB and NICD were associated with 39% and 28% increased risk for primary endpoint (LBBB hazard ratio [HR], 1.392; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.152–1.681; NICD HR, 1.278; 95% CI, 1.074–1.520) compared with narrow QRS group. The HR of RBBB for the primary endpoint was 1.103 (95% CI, 0.915–1.329). CONCLUSIONS: LBBB and NICD were independently associated with an increased risk of 1-year adverse event in hospitalized patients with HF, whereas the prognostic impacts of RBBB were limited. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01389843

Research progress of pulse wave velocity applied in cardiovascular diseases / 中国基层医药

Cardiovascular diseases have become the most common and most prevalent chronic diseases in the elderly.Smoking, hyperlipidemia, diabetes and other high-risk factors participate in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis by impairing the structure and function of the vascular wall, resulting in the occurrence of arterial stiffness.Pulse wave conduction velocity(PWV) is the rate at which a pulse wave travels from one specific location of the artery to another specific location along the wall of the artery.It is a simple, effective and repeatable noninvasive index for evaluating arterial elasticity and vascular function.PWV is closely related to cardiovascular disease.In recent years, the relationship between PWV and cardiovascular disease has been deeply studied.The relationship between PWV and coronary heart disease, hypertension, cardiac function, atrial fibrillation and pulmonary hypertension is described in this paper.

Research progress of pulse wave velocity applied in cardiovascular diseases / 中国基层医药

Cardiovascular diseases have become the most common and most prevalent chronic diseases in the elderly.Smoking,hyperlipidemia,diabetes and other high －risk factors participate in the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis by impairing the structure and function of the vascular wall ,resulting in the occurrence of arterial stiffness.Pulse wave conduction velocity (PWV) is the rate at which a pulse wave travels from one specific location of the artery to another specific location along the wall of the artery.It is a simple,effective and repeatable noninvasive index for evaluating arterial elasticity and vascular function.PWV is closely related to cardiovascular disease.In recent years,the relationship between PWV and cardiovascular disease has been deeply studied.The relationship between PWV and coronary heart disease , hypertension, cardiac function, atrial fibrillation and pulmonary hypertension is described in this paper.

Baseline Prolonged PR Interval and Outcome of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis / Intervalo PR Basal Prolongado e Desfecho da Terapia de Ressincronização Cardíaca: Revisão Sistemática e Meta-Análise

Abstract Background: Recent studies suggest that baseline prolonged PR interval is associated with worse outcome in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). However, a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature have not been made. Objective: To assess the association between baseline prolonged PR interval and adverse outcomes of CRT by a systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis. Methods: We comprehensively searched the databases of MEDLINE and EMBASE from inception to March 2017. The included studies were published prospective or retrospective cohort studies that compared all-cause mortality, HF hospitalization, and composite outcome of CRT with baseline prolonged PR (> 200 msec) versus normal PR interval. Data from each study were combined using the random-effects, generic inverse variance method of DerSimonian and Laird to calculate the risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results: Six studies from January 1991 to May 2017 were included in this meta-analysis. All-cause mortality rate is available in four studies involving 17,432 normal PR and 4,278 prolonged PR. Heart failure hospitalization is available in two studies involving 16,152 normal PR and 3,031 prolonged PR. Composite outcome is available in four studies involving 17,001 normal PR and 3,866 prolonged PR. Prolonged PR interval was associated with increased risk of all-cause mortality (pooled risk ratio = 1.34, 95 % confidence interval: 1.08-1.67, p < 0.01, I2= 57.0%), heart failure hospitalization (pooled risk ratio = 1.30, 95 % confidence interval: 1.16-1.45, p < 0.01, I2= 6.6%) and composite outcome (pooled risk ratio = 1.21, 95% confidence interval: 1.13-1.30, p < 0.01, I2= 0%). Conclusions: Our systematic review and meta-analysis support the hypothesis that baseline prolonged PR interval is a predictor of all-cause mortality, heart failure hospitalization, and composite outcome in CRT patients.

Resumo Fundamento: Estudos recentes sugerem que intervalo PR basal prolongado está associado a prognóstico ruim para a terapia de ressincronização cardíaca (TRC). No entanto, nunca foram feitas uma revisão sistemática e meta-análise da literatura. Objetivo: Avaliar a associação entre intervalo PR basal prolongado e resultados adversos da TRC por meio de uma revisão sistemática e meta-análise da literatura. Métodos: Pesquisamos de forma abrangente os bancos de dados MEDLINE e EMBASE, desde o início até março de 2017. Os estudos incluídos eram de coorte prospectivos ou retrospectivos que comparavam mortalidade por todas as causas, hospitalização por insuficiência cardíaca e desfecho composto por TRC com PR basal prolongado (> 200 ms) versus intervalo PR normal. Os dados de cada estudo foram combinados pelo modelo de efeitos aleatórios, variância genérica inversa de DerSimonian e Laird para calcular as razões de risco e os intervalos de confiança de 95% (IC95%). Resultados: Foram incluídos seis estudos de janeiro de 1991 a maio de 2017 nesta metanálise. A taxa de mortalidade por todas as causas foi mencionada em quatro estudos envolvendo 17.432 intervalos PR normais e 4.278 prolongados. Hospitalização por insuficiência cardíaca foi abordada em dois estudos envolvendo 16.152 PR normais e 3.031 prolongados. Desfecho composto esteve presente em quatro estudos com 17.001 PR normais e 3.866 prolongadas. Intervalo PR prolongado foi associado a risco aumentado de mortalidade por todas as causas (razão de risco agrupado = 1,34, IC95%: 1,08-1,67, p < 0,01, I2= 57,0%), hospitalização por insuficiência cardíaca (razão de risco agrupado = 1,30, 95 % de IC95%: 1,16-1,45, p < 0,01, I2= 6,6%) e desfecho composto (razão de risco agrupado = 1,21, IC95%: 1,13-1,30, p < 0,01, I2= 0%). Conclusões: Nossa revisão sistemática e metanálise suportam a hipótese de que o intervalo PR basal prolongado é um preditor de mortalidade por todas as causas, hospitalização por insuficiência cardíaca e desfecho composto em pacientes submetidos à TRC.

Assessment of Subclinical Cardiac Alterations and Atrial Electromechanical Delay by Tissue Doppler Echocardiography in Patients with Nonfunctioning Adrenal Incidentaloma / Avaliação de Alterações Cardíacas Subclínicas e Atraso Eletromecânico Atrial por Ecocardiografia com Doppler Tecidual em Pacientes com Incidentaloma Adrenal Não Funcionante

Abstract Background: Majority of the incidentally discovered adrenal masses, called adrenal incidentaloma (AI), are nonfunctioning adrenal adenomas. The appropriate management of AI is still a matter debate, so it is necessary to investigate their associated morbidity. However, data regarding morphological and functional cardiac alterations are limited in this group. Objective: In this study, we aimed to assess cardiac structural and functional characteristics and atrial conduction properties in patients with nonfunctioning AI. Methods: Thirty patients with nonfunctioning AI and 46 properly matched control subjects were included in the study. After hormonal and biochemical analysis, all participants underwent transthoracic echocardiography to obtain systolic and diastolic parameters of both ventricles, in addition to atrial conduction times by tissue Doppler echocardiography. Data were analyzed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, Chicago, IL, United States) statistics, version 17.0 for Windows. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Left ventricular (LV) mass index and LV myocardial performance index were significantly increased in AI group. Among atrial conduction times, both intra- and interatrial electromechanical delays were significantly prolonged in patients with nonfunctioning AI. Other laboratory and echocardiographic findings were similar between groups. Conclusion: Our study revealed that intra- and inter-atrial conduction times were prolonged, and LV mass index was increased in patients with nonfunctioning AI. These findings may be markers of subclinical cardiac involvement and tendency to cardiovascular complications. Close follow-up is necessary for individuals with nonfunctioning AI for their increased cardiovascular risk.

Resumo Fundamento: A maioria das massas adrenais descobertas incidentalmente, denominadas incidentaloma adrenal (IA), são adenomas adrenais não funcionantes. O manejo adequado da IA ainda é um tema de debate, e por isso é necessário investigar suas morbidades associadas. Entretanto, dados referentes a alterações cardíacas morfológicas e funcionais são limitados nesse grupo. Objetivo: Neste estudo, objetivamos avaliar as características estruturais e funcionais cardíacas e as propriedades de condução atrial em pacientes com IA não funcionante. Métodos: Trinta pacientes com IA não funcionante e 46 controles adequadamente pareados foram incluídos no estudo. Após análise hormonal e bioquímica, todos os participantes foram submetidos a ecocardiograma transtorácico para obtenção de parâmetros sistólicos e diastólicos de ambos os ventrículos, além dos tempos de condução atrial pelo ecocardiograma com Doppler tecidual. Os dados foram analisados com o Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, Chicago, IL, Estados Unidos), versão 17.0 para Windows. P < 0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados: O índice de massa do ventrículo esquerdo (VE) e o índice de desempenho miocárdico do VE foram significativamente aumentados no grupo IA. Entre os tempos de condução atrial, os atrasos eletromecânicos intra- e interatriais foram significativamente prolongados em pacientes com IA não funcionante. Outros achados laboratoriais e ecocardiográficos foram semelhantes entre os grupos. Conclusão: Nosso estudo revelou que os tempos de condução intra- e interatrial estavam prolongados e o índice de massa do VE estava aumentado em pacientes com IA não funcionante. Esses achados podem ser marcadores de envolvimento cardíaco subclínico e de tendência a complicações cardiovasculares. Um acompanhamento rigoroso é necessário para indivíduos com IA não funcionante, devido ao aumento do risco cardiovascular.

Unsolved Questions on the Anatomy of the Ventricular Conduction System

We reviewed the anatomical characteristics of the conduction system in the ventricles of human and ungulate hearts and then raised some questions to be answered by clinical and anatomical studies in the future. The ventricular conduction system is a 3-dimensional structure as compared to the 2-dimensional character of the atrial conduction system. The proximal part consisting of the atrioventricular node, the bundle of His and fascicles are groups of conducting cells surrounded by fibrous connective tissue so as to insulate from the underlying myocardium. Their location and morphological characters are well established. The bundle of His is a cord like structure but the left and right fascicles are broad at the proximal and branching at the distal part. The more distal part of fascicles and Purkinje system are linear networks of conducting cells at the immediate subendocardium but the intra-mural network is detected at the inner half of the ventricular wall. The papillary muscle also harbors Purkinje system not in the deeper part. It is hard to recognize histologically in human hearts but conducting cells as well as Purkinje cells are easily recognized in ungulate hearts. Further observation on human and ungulate hearts with myocardial infarct, we could find preserved Purkinje system at the subendocardium in contrast to the damaged system at the deeper myocardium. Further studies are necessary on the anatomical characteristics of this peripheral conduction system so as to correlate the clinical data on hearts with ventricular arrhythmias.