Strain Magnitude Assessed at Rest and During Stress Echocardiography in Patients with Normal Coronary Flow Reserve

Abstract Background Coronary flow and myocardial contractile performance assessed by strain magnitude increase during a dobutamine stress echocardiogram (DSE). Normal coronary flow reserve (CFR) can be attained upon completion of a DSE at age-predicted maximum heart rate (HR) (HRmax = 220 - age)] or submaximal HR [(0.85) HRmax] or before completion (early CFR). Objective To ascertain the association between delta strain and HR in patients with early normal CFR. Methods This prospective study included patients whose normal CFR was obtained before the DSE was completed. Percentage of resting HR (%HRrest) = [(HRrest ÷ HRmax) 100]% and %HR CFR = [(HR at the time of CFR attainment) ÷ (HRmax) 100]% were recorded. Strain was assessed in the left ventricular region of interest, and delta strain was calculated as the difference between the measures obtained at HRrest and after the DSE was completed. Strain agreement analysis for HRrest, %HRrest, and %HR CFR was performed using the kappa coefficient. The Shapiro-Wilk test was used to assess data normality, and the Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the groups. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Strain measured -23.3% ± 4.3% at baseline and -31.1% ± 4.9% during the DSE. In delta strain > 8 absolute points, the ROC curves showed an area under the curve of 0.874 ± 0.07 for %HRrest (p = 0.001) and an area under the curve of 0.862 ± 0.07 for %HR CFR (p = 0.001). In delta strain > 8 points, %HRrest ≤ 42.6% of HRmax and %HR CFR ≤ 62.5% of HRmax showed an accuracy of 82.9% and 79.8%, respectively. Conclusion In this study, lower HRrest and HR at the time of CFR attainment had a good association with better myocardial contractile performance, according to the change in strain magnitude.

Reserva contráctil por fracción de eyección sola, o con elastancia. ¿Cuál es el mejor predictor de eventos luego de un Eco Estrés sin isquemia? / Contractile Reserve by Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction Alone, o Considering Elastance. ¿Which is the Best Predictor of Events After a Stress Echo Without Ischemia?

RESUMEN Introducción: El comportamiento de la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo (FEVI) durante el ejercicio se utiliza para medir la reserva contráctil (RC). La RC medida por elastancia podría tener mayor valor pronóstico. Objetivo: Establecer si la medición de la RC por elastancia añade valor pronóstico a largo plazo en relación al comportamiento aislado de la FEVI en pacientes con un Eco Estrés sin isquemia miocárdica. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, realizado en 904 pacientes con Eco Estrés con ejercicio sin isquemia. Se valoró la RC por FEVI y por elastancia. Se dividieron en 2 grupos: Grupo 1: RC por FEVI presente (a su vez este grupo se dividió en 2 subgrupos: Grupo 1 A, RC con elastancia presente y Grupo 1B: ausencia de RC por elastancia), y Grupo 2: pacientes con ausencia de RC por FEVI. El seguimiento fue de 17,7 ± 5,4 meses. Se consideraron como eventos: muerte, infarto agudo de miocardio (IAM), accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) y/o internación de causa cardiovascular. Resultados: Del total del Grupo 1 (536 pacientes), 200 (37,3%) se incluyeron en el Grupo 1A y 336 (62,7%) en el Grupo 1B. En el Grupo 2, se incluyeron 368 pacientes. En el seguimiento, los pacientes del Grupo 2 tuvieron más eventos, 30 (8,1%) vs. 22 (2,6%) (HR 3,14, IC95% 1,95-5,9, log rank test p<0,001). Dentro del G1, los pacientes del Grupo 1B presentaron más eventos: 18 (5,3%) vs 4 eventos (2%) (HR 2,46 IC95% 1,06-7,3, log rank test p<0,05). En el modelo de regresión, la elastancia fue la única variable predictora de eventos (HR 3,2, IC95% 1,83-5,6, p<0,001). Conclusiones: En el Eco Estrés ejercicio negativo para isquemia, el comportamiento de la RC evaluada por elastancia permitió identificar un subgrupo de peor pronóstico a largo plazo en pacientes con comportamiento normal de la FEVI.

ABSTRACT Background: The behavior of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) during exercise is used to measure contractile reserve (CR). CR measured by elastance could have greater prognostic value. Objective: To establish whether the measurement of CR by elastance adds long-term prognostic value to CR measured by LVEF in patients with a Stress Echo without myocardial ischemia. Material and methods: Retrospective study, carried out in 904 patients with an exercise Stress Echo without ischemia. CR was assessed by LVEF and by elastance. Patients were divided into 2 groups: Group 1: presence of CR by LVEF (in turn this group was divided into 2 subgroups: Group 1A, CR with elastance present, and Group 1B: absence of CR by elastance), and Group 2: patients with absence of CR by LVEF. The follow-up was 17,7 ± 5,4 months. Outcomes considered were death, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke, and cardiovascular hospitalization. Results: 536 patients were included in Group 1, 200 (37,3 %) in Group 1A and 336 (62,7%) in Group 1B. In Group 2, 368 patients were included. At follow-up, patients in Group 2 had more events, 30 (8.1%) vs. 22 (2.6%) (HR 3.14, 95% CI 1.95-5.9, log rank test p <0.001). Within G1, patients in Group 1B presented more events: 18(5.3%) vs 4 (2%) (HR 2.46 CI 95% 1.06-7.3, log rank test p <0.05). In the regression model, CR assessed by LVEF and additionally by elastance was the only significant outcome predictor (HR 3.2, 95% CI 1.83-5.6, p <0.001). Conclusions: In an exercise Stress Echo negative for ischemia, CR behavior evaluated by elastance allowed us to identify a subgroup with a worse long-term prognosis in patients with normal LVEF response.

Fisiopatología y pronóstico de la deformación longitudinal regional durante el eco estrés con dipiridamol / Pathophysiology and Prognosis of Apical Longitudinal Strain During Dipyridamole Stress Echocardiography

RESUMEN Introducción: El strain longitudinal apical regional permite corroborar el diagnóstico de alteraciones regionales de la motilidad parietal sobre una base cuantitativa, pero faltan datos sobre su valor pronóstico a largo plazo. Objetivos: Evaluar el correlato fisiológico y el valor pronóstico del strain longitudinal apical en el eco estrés con dipiridamol frente a la motilidad parietal. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, que incluyó 150 pacientes remitidos para eco estrés con dipiridamol. Se evaluó el strain longitudinal apical, la reserva coronaria (RC) de la arteria descendente anterior y el análisis visual de la motilidad parietal. Los pacientes se dividieron en dos grupos. Grupo1: pacientes con strain longitudinal apical normal y Grupo 2: con strain anormal. Se realizó seguimiento por 36 ± 9,3 meses. Evento mayor fue definido como: muerte, infarto de miocardio, revascularización e internación por causa cardíaca. Resultados: Fueron incluidos en el análisis 142 pacientes (8 pacientes fueron excluidos por ventana ultrasónica subóptima), 87 (61,3%) en el Grupo 1 y 55 (38,7%) en el Grupo 2. No hubo diferencias en el strain longitudinal apical en reposo entre ambos grupos. Durante el apremio, los pacientes del Grupo1 evidenciaron mejor motilidad parietal visual y una RC más alta (p < 0,001). La RC y los cambios del strain longitudinal apical presentaron una correlación positiva (coeficiente r de Pearson = 0,89, p < 0,0001). En el seguimiento hubo 24 eventos mayores. Los pacientes del Grupo1 tuvieron una mejor supervivencia libre de eventos (p<0,01) y el strain longitudinal apical demostró ser un predictor independiente de evento, mejor que el análisis de motilidad parietal (p = 0,002 vs p = 0,1), en el análisis de regresión logística. Conclusiones: El strain longitudinal apical tiene muy buena correlación con: la reserva de velocidad del flujo coronario y se asocia mejor con el pronóstico a largo plazo. El strain longitudinal apical anormal durante el eco dipiridamol predijo un peor resultado, independientemente del análisis visual de la motilidad parietal.

ABSTRACT Background: Regional apical longitudinal strain can corroborate the diagnosis of regional wall motion abnormalities on a quantitative basis, but data on long-term prognostic value are lacking. Objectives: To evaluate the physiological correlate and the prognostic value of apical longitudinal strain versus wall motility during dipyridamole stress echocardiography. Methods: Retrospective study, which included 150 patients referred for dipyridamole stress echocardiography. Apical longitudinal strain, anterior descending artery coronary reserve, and visual analysis of wall motility were evaluated. Patients were divided into two groups. Group 1: patients with normal apical longitudinal strain, and Group 2: abnormal strain. Follow-up was carried out for 36 ± 9.3 months. Major event was defined as: death, myocardial infarction, revascularization and hospitalization for cardiac causes. Results. Eighty-seven patients (61.3%) in Group 1 and 55 (38.7%) patients in Group 2 were included (8 patients were excluded due to a suboptimal ultrasound window). There were no differences in apical longitudinal strain at rest between the groups. During the stress, Group 1 patients showed better visual wall motility and a higher coronary reserve (p < 0.001). The coronary reserve showed a linear correlation with the changes in the apical longitudinal strain (Pearson's correlation coefficient 0.89, p < 0.0001). At follow-up, there were 24 major events. Group 1 patients had better event-free survival (p < 0.01) and apical longitudinal strain proved to be a better independent event predictor than wall motion analysis (p = 0.002 vs p = 0.1) in logistic regression analysis. Conclusions: Apical longitudinal strain has a very good correlation with physiological standards -coronary flow velocity reserve- and its association with long-term prognosis is better. Abnormal apical longitudinal strain during dipyridamole stress echocardiography predicted a worse outcome, regardless of visual wall motion analysis.

Research progress of echocardiography in the evaluation of left ventricular systolic function / 中国基层医药

The judgment of left ventricular systolic dysfunction is of great significance for the diagnosis of heart disease, risk evaluation, and follow-ups of patients with heart disease. Evaluation of left ventricular systolic function is the most commonly used index in echocardiography. At present, the echocardiographic measurement of left ventricular function has changed from linear measurement and two-dimensional echocardiography to local and global strain analysis and three-dimensional echocardiography. Even if examination method is very superior and automatic, evaluating left ventricular systolic function is extremely challenging. This paper reviews the most widely used echocardiography, evaluates left ventricular systolic function in adults and children, and discusses its advantages, disadvantages and the research progress.

Expression of uric acid and cystatin C in serum of older adult patients with diastolic heart failure and their correlation with ventricular remodeling / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the expression of serum uric acid and cystatin C in older adult patients with diastolic heart failure and their correlation with ventricular remodeling.Methods:The clinical data of 173 older adult patients with diastolic heart failure (patient group) and 144 older adult patients who had normal heart function (control group) who received treatment in Liaoning Jinqiu Hospital from January 2018 to January 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, left ventricular mass index, serum uric acid and cystatin C levels were compared between the two groups. These indices were also compared between patients with different classes of heart failure. Serum uric acid and cystatin C levels were correlated with left ventricular end-diastolic diameter and left ventricular mass index.Results:Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter, left ventricular mass index, and serum uric acid and cystatin C levels in the patient group were (46.82 ± 4.56) mm, (117.45 ± 24.51) g/m 2, (380.23 ± 115.85) μmol/L, (1.41 ± 0.51) mg/L, respectively, which were significantly higher than (45.8 ± 3.96) mm, (111.19 ± 19.30) g/m 2, (333.65 ± 89.02) μmol/L, (1.06 ± 0.34) mg/L, respectively in the control group ( t = 2.10, 2.48, 3.95, 7.02, all P < 0.05). Serum uric acid level in patients with class IV heart failure was (432.48 ± 157.64) μmol/L, which was significantly higher than (355.22 ± 106.56) μmol/L and (379.89 ± 93.43) μmol/L in patients with class II and class III heart failure ( F = 5.18, P < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed that serum uric acid level was positively correlated with left ventricular end-diastolic diameter ( r = 0.17, P < 0.05) and left ventricular mass index ( r = 0.18, P < 0.05) in older adult patients with diastolic heart failure. Conclusion:Serum uric acid plays an important role in the occurrence and development of diastolic heart failure in older adults. Serum uric acid level can help measure the degree of ventricular remodeling to some extent.

Ecocardiografia sob estresse usando imagem tridimensional em tempo real / Stress echocardiography using real-time 3d imaging

A necessidade de examinar o coração com uma ferramenta tridimensional não é nova na ecocardiografia. O órgão complexo e dinâmico em estudo sempre exigiu o entendimento em três dimensões e em tempo real. Sem o recurso, o examinador precisa transformar as imagens em bidimensional para uma compreensão de volume que exige complexa interação de conhecimentos e aproximações. A invenção da tridimensão já contabiliza três décadas, e seu aprimoramento levou a produtos comerciais no início do século. Estudos demonstram, no mínimo, equivalência da tridimensão com ganhos no manuseio do tempo necessário. Utilizamos as modalidades Tri Plano na rotina com ganho de tempo e menor estresse do membro superior do examinador. A tridimensão pode responder perguntas mais complexas e auxilia em nossa abordagem mais geométrica da contração, sendo o espessamento analisado em segundo plano.(AU)

The need to examine the heart using a three-dimensional (3D) tool is not new. This complex and dynamic organ has always required 3D and real-time understanding. Without this feature, the examiner has to transform two-dimensional images to understand its volume, which requires complex knowledge and approximation interactions. Echocardiography was invented three decades ago, and its improvements resulted in commercial products at the beginning of the century. Some studies demonstrate 3D equivalence with gains in handling the necessary time. We use triplane modalities in our routine, with time gain and less stress on the examiner's upper limb. Thus, 3D examinations can answer more complex questions and provide a more geometric approach to contraction, with thickening being analyzed in the background. (AU)

Clinical value of echocardiography in the diagnosis of fetal arrhythmia / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the clinical value of echocardiography in the diagnosis of fetal arrhythmia.Methods:1 500 pregnant women who underwent a regular prenatal examination in Cangnan Hospital Affiliated to Wenzhou Medical University from March 2018 to March 2020 were included in this study. These pregnant women underwent fetal echocardiography in the second trimester of pregnancy (24-26 weeks). We evaluated the condition of, and calculated the incidence of, fetal arrhythmia complicated by fetal cardiac structure abnormality . The diameters of the descending aorta, umbilical artery, and middle cerebral artery were compared between normal fetuses and arrhythmia fetuses.Results:Fetal arrhythmia was found in 131 pregnant women who were in the second trimester of pregnancy, with an incidence of fetal arrhythmia of 8.73%. Fetal arrhythmia and cardiac structure abnormality were detected in 19 pregnant women, with an incidence of fetal arrhythmia and cardiac structure abnormality of 1.27%. Fetal arrhythmia was detected in 131 (8.73%) pregnant women who were in the second trimester of pregnancy and it was detected in 32 (2.13%) pregnant women who were in the third trimester of pregnancy. Arrhythmia was detected in 18 (1.2%) newborns. Only 5 (0.33%) fetuses died during the perinatal period. Four (0.27%) fetuses had arrhythmia complicated by cardiac structure abnormality. One (0.07%) fetus was normal. The diameters of the descending aorta and middle cerebral artery were greater in normal fetuses than in arrhythmia fetuses in pregnant women who were in the second trimester of pregnancy, and the diameter of the umbilical artery was significantly smaller in normal fetuses than in arrhythmia fetuses ( t = -8.27-19.62, all P < 0.001). Conclusion:Echocardiography can effectively help diagnose fetal arrhythmia and observe abnormal cardiac structure. The imaging technique is of great clinical value in improving the diagnosis and treatment of fetal arrhythmia.

The relationship and significance of echocardiographic indexes of acute myocardial infarction with serum heart-type fatty acid binding protein and chitinase-3 like protein-1 / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To investigate the relationship between left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD), wall motion score (WMS) of echocardiographic indexes and serum heart type fatty acid binding protein (h-FABP), chitinase-3 like protein-1 (YKL-40) and their predictive value for prognosis in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).Methods:A retrospective selection of 130 AMI patients admitted from January 2020 to March 2021 in the University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital were selected as the research objects. According to whether major adverse cardiovascular events or death occurred within 30 d, they were divided into a good prognosis group (85 cases) and a poor prognosis group (45 cases). The echocardiographic indexes, serum h-FABP and YKL-40 levels were compared between the two groups, the correlation between serum indexes and color Doppler ultrasound indexes and the value of echocardiographic indexes for prognosis were also analyzed.Results:When the poor prognosis group was admitted to the hospital and after 1 week of treatment, the LVEF was lower than that in good prognosis group: (40.12±4.10)% vs. (44.37±5.06)% and (47.62±4.83)% vs. (53.29±5.31)%; the LVEDD, WMS, serum h-FABP and YKL-40 level were higher than those in good prognosis group: (52.78±3.67) mm vs. (49.16±3.14) mm and (48.35±4.08) mm vs. (44.20±3.72) mm, (23.42±3.11) scores vs. (20.09±2.87) scores and (20.07±3.70) scores vs. (15.20±2.34) scores, (28.76±4.22) mg/L vs. (22.35±3.19) mg/L and (20.04±3.33) mg/L vs. (14.20±2.76) mg/L, (40.17±5.10) μg/L vs. (34.83±3.25) μg/L and (32.09±4.38) μg/L vs. (27.20±3.07) μg/L, and there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). LVEF was negatively correlated with serum h-FABP and YKL-40 neither at admission nor 1 week after treatment, and LVEDD and WMS were positively correlated with serum h-FABP and YKL-40 ( P<0.05). The areas under the curve for combined prediction of prognosis by LVEF, LVEDD, and WMS was the largest at 0.873. The survival rates of high-risk patients indicated with LVEF, LVEDD, and WMS were lower than that of low-risk patients: 56.52% vs. 90.91%, 52.38% vs. 91.67%, and 54.17% vs. 95.24%, and there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). Conclusions:The echocardiographic parameters LVEF, LVEDD and WMS in patients with AMI are closely related to serum h-FABP and YKL-40, which can provide an objective basis for the evaluation of myocardial pathophysiological changes. Moreover, the combined detection of LVEF, LVEDD, and WMS can be used to further assess the prognostic survival status, with a positive significance for guiding clinical treatment plans.

O Papel da Ecocardiografia sob Estresse na Detecção Precoce de Disfunção Diastólica em Pacientes com Doença Pulmonar Obstrutiva Crônica Não Grave / The Role of Stress Echocardiography in the Early Detection of Diastolic Dysfunction in Non-Severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients

Resumo Fundamento A dispneia por esforço é uma queixa comum de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca com fração de ejeção preservada (ICFEP) e doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC). A ICFEP é comum na DPOC e é um fator de risco independente para a progressão e exacerbação da doença. A detecção precoce, portanto, tem grande relevância clínica. Objetivos O objetivo deste estudo foi detectar a frequência de ICFEP mascarada em pacientes com DPOC não grave com dispneia aos esforços, sem doença cardiovascular manifesta, e analisar a correlação entre ICFEP mascarada e os parâmetros do teste cardiopulmonar de exercício (TCPE). Métodos Aplicamos o TCPE em 104 pacientes com DPOC não grave com dispneia aos esforços, sem doença cardiovascular evidente. A ecocardiografia foi realizada antes e no pico do TCPE. Os valores de corte para disfunção diastólica ventricular esquerda e direita induzida por estresse (DDVE/DDVD) foram E/e' >15; E/e' >6, respectivamente. A análise de correlação foi feita entre os parâmetros do TCPE e o estresse E/d'. Valor de p<0,05 foi considerado significativo. Resultados 64% dos pacientes tinham DDVE induzida por estresse; 78% tinham DDVD induzida por estresse. Ambos os grupos com estresse DDVE e DDVD obtiveram carga menor, V'O2 e pulso de O2 mais baixos, além de apresentarem redução na eficiência ventilatória (maiores inclinações de VE/VCO2). Nenhum dos parâmetros do TCPE foram correlacionados com E/e' DDVE/DDVD induzida por estresse. Conclusão Há uma alta prevalência de disfunção diastólica induzida por estresse em pacientes com DPOC não grave com dispneia aos esforços, sem doença cardiovascular evidente. Nenhum dos parâmetros do TCPE se correlaciona com E/e' induzida por estresse. Isso demanda a realização de Ecocardiografia sob estresse por exercício (EES) e TCPE para detecção precoce e manejo adequado da ICFEP mascarada nesta população. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(2):259-265)

Abstract Background Exertional dyspnea is a common complaint of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). HFpEF is common in COPD and is an independent risk factor for disease progression and exacerbation. Early detection, therefore, has great clinical relevance. Objectives The aim of the study is to detect the frequency of masked HFpEF in non-severe COPD patients with exertional dyspnea, free of overt cardiovascular disease, and to analyze the correlation between masked HFpEF and the cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameters. Methods We applied the CPET in 104 non-severe COPD patients with exertional dyspnea, free of overt cardiovascular disease. Echocardiography was performed before and at peak CPET. Cut-off values for stress-induced left and right ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD/ RVDD) were E/e'>15; E/e'>6, respectively. Correlation analysis was done between CPET parameters and stress E/e'. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant. Results 64% of the patients had stress-induced LVDD; 78% had stress-induced RVDD. Both groups with stress LVDD and RVDD achieved lower load, lower V'O2 and O2-pulse, besides showing reduced ventilatory efficiency (higher VE/VCO2 slopes). None of the CPET parameters were correlated to stress-induced left or right E/e'. Conclusion There is a high prevalence of stress-induced diastolic dysfunction in non-severe COPD patients with exertional dyspnea, free of overt cardiovascular disease. None of the CPET parameters correlates to stress-induced E/e'. This demands the performance of Exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) and CPET for the early detection and proper management of masked HFpEF in this population. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(2):259-265)

The role of three-dimensional speckle tracking imaging derived parameters on predicting outcome of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy patients with MYH7 mutations / 中华心血管病杂志

Objective: To evaluate the cardiac functional changes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy(HCM) patients with β-myosin heavy chain gene (MYH7) mutations by three-dimensional (3D) speckle tracking imaging(3D-STI) and conventional echocardiography modalities, and then to explore the potential predictors of adverse cardiovascular events in these patients. Methods: A consecutive series of 192 HCM patients admitted in our center from October 2014 to October 2016 were genetically screened to identify MYH7 mutations in this retrospective study. A total of 43 HCM patients with MYH7 mutations were enrolled. The patients were divided into events group(n=13) and no event group(n=30) according to the presence or absence of adverse cardiovascular events(primary and secondary endpoints). All patients were followed up to January 2019 after comprehensive evaluation of 3D-STI, two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography. The adverse cardiovascular events were recorded. Results: The median follow up time was 1 012 (812, 1 330) days. During follow-up, 13 patients (30.2%) reached endpoints: 6 cases of the primary endpoints(2 cases of sudden cardiac death(SCD), 3 cases of survival after defibrillation, and 1 case of appropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator(ICD) discharge); 7 cases of the second endpoints(5 cases of heart failure hospitalization, 1 case of syncope and cardioversion due to supraventricular tachycardia, and 1 case of end-stage HCM). Patients with adverse cardiovascular events had higher prevalence of syncope and risk of SCD, enlarged left atrial volume index(LAVI) and reduced 3D left ventricular global longitudinal train (3D-GLS), as compared to those without adverse events(all P<0.05). The multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that reduced 3D-GLS(HR=0.814, 95%CI 0.663-0.999, P=0.049) was an independent predictor for adverse cardiovascular events. The cutoff value of 3D-GLS≤13.67% was linked with significantly increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events in this patient cohort(AUC=0.753, 95%CI 0.558-0.948, sensitivity 86%, specificity 69%, P<0.05). The Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that the patients with the 3D-GLS≤ 13.67% faced higher risk of death than those with 3D-GLS>13.67%. Conclusion: 3D-GLS is useful on predicting adverse cardiovascular events in HCM patients with MYH7 mutations.

El comportamiento del strain longitudinal regional depende de la reserva coronaria en un análisis simultáneo durante el eco-estrés con dipiridamol / The Behavior of Regional Longitudinal Strain Depends on Coronary Flow Reserve in a Simultaneous Analysis during Dipyridamole Stress Echocardiography

RESUMEN Introducción: Está poco estudiado el comportamiento del strain longitudinal regional y global en relación al valor de la reserva coronaria. Objetivos: Comparar el comportamiento del strain longitudinal apical y global con el valor de la reserva coronaria de la arteria descendente anterior y secundariamente comparar estas respuestas con el análisis visual de la motilidad parietal durante el eco-estrés con dipiridamol. Material y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo de 179 pacientes (edad 68,7 ± 7,8), 90 hombres (50,3%). En el pico del efecto de dipiridamol, se midió la reserva coronaria, simultáneamente al strain longitudinal y el análisis visual de la contractilidad. Se organizó a los pacientes en dos grupos: grupo 1: reserva coronaria ≥ 2 y grupo 2: < 2. Strain apical se definió como el promedio de 4 segmentos apicales y global de los 17 segmentos. Se consideró normal a todo incremento del strain. Resultados: Se incluyeron 113 pacientes (63,12%) en el grupo 1 y 66 (36,87%) en el grupo 2. Strain apical: el 96,77% del grupo 1 incrementaron su valor con el apremio, mientras que, en el grupo 2, el 95,31% presentaron una caída (p < 0,0001). Strain global: el 82,8% del grupo 1 presentaron incremento de sus valores, en cambio, en el grupo 2, el 78,8% empeoraron (p < 0,01). Análisis de la motilidad parietal posdipiridamol: el 96,46% del grupo 1 tenían motilidad parietal conservada y el 54,5% del grupo 2 (solo en 4 pacientes aumentó el strain apical). Conclusiones: Se comprobó una estrecha correlación entre la reserva coronaria y el strain longitudinal. El strain longitudinal apical resultó ser superior del global. El strain apical demostró tener una mejor correlación con la reserva coronaria que con el análisis visual de la contractilidad.

ABSTRACT Background: The behavior of regional and global longitudinal strain in relation to the value of the coronary reserve is poorly studied. Objectives: Compare the behavior of the Apical and global longitudinal Strain with the value of the coronary reserve of the anterior descending artery and as a secondary aim compare these responses with the visual analysis of parietal motility during Echo Stress with Dipyridamole. Materials and methods: Retrospective study of 179 patients (age 68.7±7.8), 90 patients (50.3%) were men. At the peak of the dipyridamole effect, the coronary reserve was measured, simultaneously with the Longitudinal Strain and the visual analisis of contractility. Two groups were divided: Group 1: Coronary reserve ≥2 and Group 2: <2. Apical Strain was defined as the average of 4 apical segments and global as the average of the 17 segments. It was considered normal any increased of deformation. Results: 113 patients (63.12%) were included in Group 1 and 66 (36.87%) in Group 2. Strain Apical: 96.77% of Group 1 increased their strain values with the stress, while in group 2, 95.31% presented a worsening strain values (p<0.0001). Global Strain: 82.8% of Group 1 had an increase in their values, while in Group 2, 78.8% showed worsening (p<0.01). Post Dipyridamole parietal Motility Analysis: 96.46% of Group 1 had preserved parietal motility and only 54.5% of Group 2 (4 patients had increased apical Strain in this group). Conclusions: There was a close correlation between the coronary reserve of the anterior descending artery and the contractile reserve evaluated by regional apical longitudinal strain of the 4 apical segments, which was superior to the use of global strain. The Apical Strain showed a better correlation with ADA coronary reserve than with the visual analysis of contractility.

Software integral de eco estrés para protocolo ABCDE de última generación / Stress Echo Comprehensive Software (SECS) for State-of-the-art ABCDE Protocol

RESUMEN Introducción: Existen diversos softwares especializados en el mercado para el almacenamiento electivo de datos de eco estrés (EE). El EE de última generación incorpora nuevos parámetros además de la motilidad parietal. Objetivo: Desarrollar un nuevo software para el almacenamiento de datos e informe de EE. Métodos: Desarrollamos el prototipo de Software Integral de EE (SIEE) con un conjunto mínimo de datos que permite la eventual recolección estandarizada de datos. El software corre en computadoras con capacidad de trabajo mediana-baja y con los sistemas operativos más usados (Windows, MAC OS y Linux). Las funciones de exportación hacia formatos altamente aceptados permiten compartir los datos fácilmente. El software es capaz de generar un informe personalizado que se puede expandir en PDF y en formatos de valores separados por comas. Resultados: El ingreso de datos en el programa prototipo requiere menos de 2 minutos por estudio. Las páginas principales se concentran en las 5 fases ABCDE del EE: fase A (motilidad parietal regional); fase B (líneas B con escaneo simplificado de 4 sitios); fase C (reserva contráctil con fuerza derivada de la presión arterial sistólica y volumen de fin de sístole; fase D (Doppler de reserva coronaria de la arteria descendente anterior); y fase E (reserva cronotrópica derivada del electrocardiograma medida como la razón de frecuencia cardíaca pico/reposo). La última página resume la información ABCDE en un modelo de predicción de riesgo (tasa de muerte cardiovascular anual, abarcando desde riesgo bajo <1% hasta riego alto >3%. Conclusión: El SIEE puede proporcionar una infraestructura adecuada para una aplicación clínica y de investigación avanzada, con un formato gráfico simple y opción de informe satisfactoria. Puede representar una solución intermedia entre la información exhaustiva requerida por los estándares científicos y la prioridad de un flujo de trabajo fluido de actividades relacionadas a la clínica con gran volumen de pacientes. Su validación en gran escala y la adaptación de acuerdo a la opinión de los usuarios es necesaria antes de su difusión a demanda.

ABSTRACT Background: Several specialized softwares are commercially available for the elective storage of stress echo (SE) data. State-of-the-art SE is based upon novel parameters in addition to regional wall motion. Objective: To develop a novel software for SE data storage and reporting. Methods: We developed the prototype of a SE Comprehensive Software (SECS) with a minimum data set eventually allowing standardized collection of data. The software runs with medium-low performance computers as well as with the most popular operating systems (Windows, MAC OS and Linux). The export functions towards widely accepted formats allow easy data sharing. The software is able to generate a customized report which can be expanded in PDF and comma-separated value formats. Results: The program prototype data entry requires <2 min per study. The main pages focus on the 5 steps of ABCDE-SE: step A (regional wall motion); step B (B-lines with 4-site simplified scan); step C (contractile reserve with force derived from systolic blood pressure and end-systolic volume); step D (Doppler-based coronary flow velocity reserve in left anterior descending coronary artery); step E (EKG-based chronotropic reserve measured as peak/rest heart rate). The final page graphically summarizes the ABCDE information in a risk prediction model (cardiac death rate per year, from low risk <1% to high risk >3 %). Conclusion: SECS may provide a suitable infrastructure for an advanced clinical and research application, with simple graphic format and convenient reporting option. It may represent a trade-off between exhaustive information required by scientific standards and smooth workflow priority of busy, high volume, clinically-driven activities. Large scale validation and adaptation from users' feedback is necessary prior to dissemination on demand.

Effects of adenosine stress on myocardial perfusion in healthy mice / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective To explore the effects of adenosine stress on myocardial perfusion in healthy mice by myocardial contrast echocardiography ( MCE) . Methods MCE was carried out to quantify regional myocardial perfusion at rest and during adenosine stress using a VEVO 2100 system in 26 C57BL/6 mice . Echocardiography images from standardized parasternal long axis and short axis at papillary muscle level were consecutively acquired in real‐time . All dynamic images were recorded for off‐line analysis . Left ventricular myocardial perfusion quantitative parameters were acquired both under resting status and during adenosine stress . Replenishment curves of myocardial contrast were obtained and myocardial blood flow ( MBF) was calculated . Results Twenty‐six experimental animals successfully underwent MCE before and during adenosine stress . T here was no significant difference in heart rate ,left ventricular structure and functional parameters before and during adenosine stress ( all P ＞0 .05) . Rates of signal rise β values which were used to estimate blood velocity of middle anterior septum and posterior wall in left ventricular long‐axis view and anterior wall ,lateral wall ,inferior wall and septal wall in short‐axis view at papillary muscle increased significantly during stress compared with those at rest ( all P ＜0 .05 ) . T here was no significant difference in the plateau intensity A values( all P ＞0 .05 ) . T he MBF in each segment of the myocardium increased significantly during stress compared with those in resting state ( all P ＜0 .05) . Conclusions T he physiological characteristics of myocardial perfusion in mice before and during adenosine stress were preliminarily obtained ,w hich provided a basis for the application of adenosine stress echocardiography in cardiovascular disease models such as coronary heart disease in mice .

Evaluation of exercise on left ventricular function in patients with slow coronary flow by excercise‐stress echocardiography / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective To evaluate the role of treadmill exercise‐stress echocardiography in the assessment of left ventricular ( LV ) function in patients with slow coronary flow ( SCF ) ,and discuss the possible mechanism of SCF . Methods Forty‐six patients with diagnosis of SCF were enrolled as SCF group . Forty age and sex matched adults were included as control group . All subjects had underwent clinical evaluation and exercise stress echocardiography . LV diastolic and systolic functions were assessed by conventional echocardiography , tissue Doppler imaging and two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography at rest and during exercise . Results ①LV function in patients with SCF at rest :LV peak systolic longitudinal strain ( LS) was lower in patients with SCF than that in controls ( P ＜0 .05) . T here was no difference of LV ejection fraction ( LVEF) between the two group( P＞0 .05) . Early diastolic mitral annulus velocity ( M itral e′) and the ratio between the early mitral inflow velocity and Mitral e′( M itral E/e′) were significantly decreased in SCF group( all P＜0 .01 ) . ②LV function during exercise :LVEF ,LS and M itral e′were significant increased in two groups ( all P ＜0 .05 ) than those at rest ,but there was no significant difference of LVEF ,LS ,M itral e′ and M itral E/e′ between the two groups ( all P ＞ 0 .05 ) . Compared with control group ,ΔLS and ΔM itral e′were significantly higher in SCF group ( all P＜0 .05 ) . Conclusions LV systolic and diastolic function in patients with SCF are impaired at rest . LV systolic and diastolic function recover in patients with SCF during exercise .

An echocardiographic study of left ventricular torsion in patients with latent obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective To explore the changes of left ventricular torsion function in patients with latent obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy ( HCM ) ,and provide quantitative informations for clinical evaluation of cardiac function . Methods A total of 49 consecutive patients with HCM without left ventricular outflow tract obstruction at rest were enrolled . All subjects underwent exercise stress echocardiography . After exercise left ventricular outflow tract pressure gradient ( LVO T‐PG ) ≥30 mm Hg was positive for exercise stress test ( latent obstruction) ,w hile LVO T‐PG＜ 30 mm Hg was negative for exercise stress test ( non‐obstruction) . An ultrasound system obtained two‐dimensional ultrasound images of resting and moving peaks . The global longitudinal strain ( GLS ) ,global circumferential strain ( GCS ) , global radial strain ( GRS) of the left ventricle 16 segments and left ventricular rotation ,twist were analysis using off‐line EchoPAC software . T he differences of the above parameters were compared between the two groups . Results T here were no significant differences in GLS ,GRS ,GCS and Rotation‐B between the two groups in resting and peak period of exercise ( all P ＞ 0 .05 ) ,GRS in both groups were significantly increased compared with that before exercise ( all P ＜ 0 .05 ) . Compared with the negative exercise stress group ,the left ventricular twist and Rotation‐A were significantly increased in resting and peak period of exercise in the positive exercise stress test group( all P ＜0 .05) . Compared with before exercise ,Rotation‐A and left ventricular twist were significantly decreased in the positive exercise stress test group ( all P ＜0 .05) ,while no significantly difference was found in the negative exercise stress group ( all P ＞ 0 .05 ) . Conclusions Left ventricular torsion function is significantly changed in rest and after exercise in latent obstructive HCM patients ,providing valuable quantitative information for clinical comprehensive evaluation of cardiac function .

An Alternative Method to Calculate Simplified Projected Aortic Valve Area at Normal Flow Rate / Um Método Alternativo para o Cálculo da Área Valvular Aórtica Projetada Simplificada em Uma Taxa de Fluxo Normal

Abstract Background: Simplified projected aortic valve area (EOAproj) is a valuable echocardiographic parameter in the evaluation of low flow low gradient aortic stenosis (LFLG AS). Its widespread use in clinical practice is hampered by the laborious process of flow rate (Q) calculation. Objetive: This study proposes a less burdensome, alternative method of Q calculation to be incorporated in the original formula of EOAproj and measures the agreement between the new proposed method of EOAproj calculation and the original one. Methods: Retrospective observational single-institution study that included all consecutive patients with classic LFLG AS that showed a Q variation with dobutamine infusion ≥ -15-% by both calculation methods. Results: Twenty-two consecutive patients with classical LFLG AS who underwent dobutamine stress echocardiography were included. Nine patients showed a Q variation with dobutamine infusion calculated by both classical and alternative methods ≥ -15-% and were selected for further statistical analysis. Using the Bland-Altman method to assess agreement we found a systematic bias of 0,037 cm2 (95% CI 0,004 - 0,066), meaning that on average the new method overestimates the EOAproj in 0,037 cm2 compared to the original method. The 95% limits of agreement are narrow (from -0,04 cm2 to 0,12 cm2), meaning that for 95% of individuals, EOAproj calculated by the new method would be between 0,04 cm2 less to 0,12 cm2 more than the EOAproj calculated by the original equation. Conclusion: The bias and 95% limits of agreement of the new method are narrow and not clinically relevant, supporting the potential interchangeability of the two methods of EOAproj calculation. As the new method requires less additional measurements, it would be easier to implement in clinical practice, promoting an increase in the use of EOAproj.

Resumo Fundamento: A área valvular aórtica projetada simplificada (AEOproj) é um parâmetro ecocardiográfico valioso na avaliação da estenose aórtica de baixo fluxo e baixo gradiente (EA BFBG). Sua utilização na prática clínica é limitada pelo trabalhoso processo de cálculo da taxa de fluxo (Q). Objetivos: Este estudo propõe um método alternativo, menos complexo, para o cálculo da Q para ser incorporado na fórmula original da AEOproj, e mede a concordância entre o novo método proposto para o cálculo da AEOproj em comparação ao método original. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo, observacional, unicêntrico que incluiu todos os pacientes com AE BFBG clássica com variação da Q com infusão de dobutamina ≥ -15-% por ambos os métodos. Resultados: Foram incluídos 22 pacientes consecutivos com AE BFBG clássico, que se submeteram à ecocardiografia sob estresse com dobutamina. Nove pacientes apresentaram uma variação da Q com infusão de dobutamina calculada tanto pelo método clássico como pelo método alternativo ≥ -15-%, e foram selecionados para análise estatística. Utilizando método Bland-Altman para avaliar a concordância, encontramos um viés sistemático de 0,037 cm2 (IC 95% 0,004 - 0,066), o que significa que, em média, o novo método superestima a AEOproj em 0m037 cm2 em comparação ao método original. Os limites de concordância de 95% são estreitos (de -0,04 cm2 a 0,12 cm2), o que significa que para 95% dos indivídios, a AEOproj calculada pelo novo método estaria entre 0,04 cm2 menos a 0,12 cm2 mais que a AEOproj calculada pela equação original. Conclusão: O viés e os limites de 95% de concordância do novo método são estreitos e não são clinicamente relevantes, o que corrobora a intercambialidade dos dois métodos de cálculo da AEOproj. Uma vez que o novo método requer menos medidas, seria mais fácil de ser implementado na prática clínica, promovendo um aumento na utilização da AEOproj.

Association between the ratio of early diastolic transmitral velocity to early diastolic mitral annular velocity and invasive measured left atrial pressure in patients with atrial fibrillation and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction / 中华心血管病杂志

Objective@#To evaluate the association between the ratio of early diastolic transmitral velocity to early diastolic mitral annular velocity (E/E') and left atrial pressure (LAP) estimated from invasive catheter measurements in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).@*Methods@#A total of 46 consecutive patients with non-valvular AF and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) admitted in our department to receive the first radiofrequency ablation from May to July 2017 were included. All patients underwent echocardiography at 24-48 hours before radiofrequency ablation, and LAP was invasively measured during the ablation procedure. According to mean LAP, patients were divided into 2 groups of normal LAP (LAP≤12 mmHg(1 mmHg=0.133 kPa, n=31) and elevated LAP (LAP>12 mmHg, n=15). Linear correlation analysis was used to evaluate the relationship between E/E' and LAP.@*Results@#E/E' correlated well with LAP (septal E/E' (E/E'sep), r= 0.397, P=0.006; lateral E/E' (E/E'lat), r=0.433, P=0.003; mean E/E' (E/E'mean), r=0.431, P=0.003). Using receiver operating characteristic analysis, the optimal cut-off for E/E'sep was 12.5 (sensitivity 73.3%, specificity 67.7%), E/E'lat was 10.8 (sensitivity 80.0%, specificity 77.4%), E/E'mean was 11.0 (sensitivity 86.7%, specificity 64.5%) to predict mean LAP>12 mmHg.@*Conclusion@#E/E', especially the E/E'lat, is positively correlated with LAP in patients with AF and preserved LVEF, and may be used to estimate the diastolic function in AF patients with preserved LVEF.

The clinical analysis of drug induced acute angle-closure glaucoma / 天津医药

@# Objective Toinvestigatetheroleofpulmonaryvalvepressuregradientintheestimationofpulmonary arterysystolicpressures(PASP)inpatientswithatrialseptaldefect(ASD). Methods SixtyeightpatientswithASDand hospitalizedinTianjinMedicalUniversityGeneralHospitalwereincludedinthisstudy.Thetricuspidregurgitationpressure gradientmethodwasusedformeasuringPASPbeforeinterventionalocclusionoperation.Andpulmonaryvalvepressure gradientwasmeasuredthroughpulmonaryvalvevelocitytocalculatecorrectedvalues(PASP’),whichwerecomparedwith those(PASPr)obtainedbyrightcardiaccatheterization(RHC)respectively.ThepatientsweredividedintogroupA(defect size≤15 mm) and group B (defect size>15 mm) by the size of defect. The measurements obtained by ultrasound echocardiography(UCG)andRHCwerecomparedbetweenthetwogroups. Results Therewerestatisticallysignificant differencesbetweenPASP[(31.66±6.76)mmHg],PASP’ [(26.86±6.66)mmHg]andPASPr[(28.79±6.43)mmHg]ingroupA (P＜0.05).ThePASPwassignificantlyhigherthanPASPr[(45.29±13.49)mmHg vs. (34.56±9.47)mmHg](P＜0.05),but therewasnosignificantdifferencebetweenPASP’[(37.30±12.71)mmHg]andPASPringroupB(P＞0.05).Valuesof PASPrwerepositivelycorrelatedwithPASP(r=0.664,0.588respectively,P＜0.01)ingroupAandgroupB.Thecorrelation coefficients of PASPr and PASP’were improved in two groups after adjusted with pulmonary valve pressure gradient (respectively r =0.700,0.645, P＜0.01). Conclusion TheadjustedPASPcalculatedbytricuspidregurgitationpressure gradientmethodwithpulmonaryvalvepressuregradientcanimprovetheaccuracyofechocardiographicestimatesofPASPin ASDpatientswiththedefectsize>15mm.

Value of echocardiographic evaluation on Kawasaki disease of heart morphology and function / 中国基层医药

Objective To study value of the echocardiographic evaluation on Kawasaki disease of heart morphology and function.Methods From January 2014 to January 2017,30 cases of heart failure children with Kawasaki in the People's Hospital of Xinzhou were selected as observation group,at the same time 30 healthy volunteers were selected as control group,and they were all detected with echocardiography.The differences in cardiac ultrasound measurement were observed and compared between the observation group and normal control group,and before and after treatment,the heart ultrasonic measurement differences were compared between the two groups.Results Compared with those of the control group,the LA [(20.3 ± 2.5) mm vs.(13.7 ± 2.8) mm],RV [(13.8 ±2.3) mm vs.(10.5 ± 1.9) mm] and LVDd [(41.9 ± 5.8) mm vs.(27.2 ± 2.6) mm] index of the observation group were significantly increased,LVEF [(45.6 ± 6.4) ％ vs.(70.3 ± 8.4) ％],LVFS [(19.8 ± 2.2) mL vs.(35.9 ±4.1) mL] and E/A [(1.38 ± 0.22) vs.(1.92 ± 0.43)] index of the observation group decreased significantly,the differences were statistically significant (t =9.879,7.365,12.125,12.254,16.567,5.923,all P ＜ 0.05).Compared with those of the control group,the ultrasonic measurement indexes of the observation group were significantly improved,the structure parameters ofLA [(20.3±2.5)mm vs.(16.5±2.2)mm],RV[(13.8±2.3)mm vs.(11.4±1.3)mm] and LVDd[(41.9 ± 5.8)mm vs.(33.7 ± 3.3)mm] decreased obviously,function index of LVEF[(45.6 ± 6.4)％ vs.(59.9 ±7.1)％],LVFS [(19.8±2.2)mL vs.(28.5±3.7)mL] andE/A[(1.38±0.22) vs.(1.73 ±0.31)]of the observation group were significantly increased after treatment,the differences were statistically significant (t =5.125,4.035,10.915,7.828,9.864,4.194,all P ＜ 0.05).Conclusion Echocardiography can objectively evaluate the cardiac morphological indexes and functional indexes of children,which has high value in clinicalapplication.