Screenning of Arrhythmias in Patients Treated for Heart Failure in Parakou in 2017

Introduction: Rhythm disorders (RDs) or arrhythmias are poor prognostic factors during heart failure (HF). Our objective was to study the frequency of rhythm disorders presented by patients treated for HF in Parakou, Benin in 2017. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study. It consisted of a systematic recruitment of all patients admitted for heart failure in the cardiology units of the city of Parakou from March to August 2017. The diagnosis of RDs was made by cardiac auscultation completed by electrocardiographic recording (standard and Holter over 24 hours). The Lown classification was used to describe the severity of ventricular TRs. The threshold for significance was p < 5%. Results: A total of 83 heart failure patients aged 61.47 ± 15.97 years with a sex ratio of 1.08 were selected. Arrhythmia was detected by auscultation in 20.48%; by standard electrocardiogram (ECG) in 25.83% and by Holter ECG in 97.59% of patients. Among the arrhythmias detected by Holter ECG, 81.48% were atrial, including 28.79% of atrial fibrillation. RDs was ventricular in 90.12% of which 47.95% were severe. Left ventricular systolic dysfunction was significantly associated with ventricular arrhythmias. On the other hand, the frequency of ventricular arrhythmias was not associated with the severity of the HF according to the NYHA classification. Conclusion: In Parakou, RDs are frequent in patients with HF. Holter ECG should be included in the follow-up of heart failure patients in order to improve their management.

Cuantificación de la extrasistolía supraventricular y ventricular en el Holter de 24 horas: significación pronóstica en estudios actuales

En la actualidad existen diferencias en la interpretación y cuantificación de los extrasístoles supraventriculares y ventriculares en el Holter de ritmo cardíaco y no existe siempre una misma definición e interpretación de lo que se denomina como "escaso", "ocasional", "frecuente" o "muy frecuente". El objetivo del presente trabajo ha sido revisar las evidencias actuales y sus fundamentos en relación a la cuantificación o carga de la extrasistolía supraventricular y ventricular en un Holter de ritmo cardíaco, lo que debiera contribuir a una mayor precisión y mejor interpretación de la información cuantitativa en la práctica clínica diaria con este examen. Se revisa en la literatura el concepto de carga de extrasístoles supraventriculares y ventriculares y su relación con eventos clínicos: fibrilación auricular y accidente cerebrovascular en el caso de la extrasistolía supraventricular y mortalidad post infarto y deterioro de la función ventricular en el caso de la extrasistolía ventricular. De esta manera se cuantifica en base a la evidencia la extrasistolía supraventricular y ventricular.

Considerable differences exist in the quantification and clinical significance of both supraventricular and ventricular extrasystoles found in Holter recordings. Usually extrasystoles were classified as rare, occasional, frequent and very frequent. Current publications were analyzed regarding the frequency and clinical significance or these arrhythmias, especially in in relation to prior myocardial infarction, ventricular dysfunction, atrial fibrillation and cerebro vascular events. Tables showing limits to define the severity of supraventricular and ventricular extrasystoles are included.

Scanning of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation as an etiological risk factor in patients with acute ischemic stroke: prospective study

Abstract BACKGROUND: Prevention of recurrence of stroke depends on recognition of the underlying mechanism of ischemia. OBJECTIVE: To screen patients who were hospitalized with diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke in terms of atrial fibrillation (AF) with repeated Holter electrocardiography recordings. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective study conducted at Konya Education and Research Hospital, Turkey. METHODS: Patients with a diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke, without atrial fibrillation on electrocardiography (ECG), were evaluated. Their age, gender, histories of previous ischemic attack, occurrences of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) and other risks were assessed during the first week after acute ischemic stroke and one month thereafter. ECG recordings were obtained from 130 patients through 24-hour ambulatory Holter. Patients without PAF attack during the first Holter were re-evaluated. RESULTS: PAF was detected through the first Holter in 33 (25.4%) out of 130 acute ischemic stroke patients. A second Holter was planned for 97 patients: 53 (54.6%) of them could not attend due to COVID-19 pandemic; while 44 (45.3%) patients had the second Holter and, among these, 4 (9.1%) had PAF. The only parameter associated with PAF was older age. Four (10.8%) of the 37 patients with PAF had also symptomatic carotid stenosis. CONCLUSIONS: Detecting the presence of PAF by screening patients with no AF in the ECG through Holter ECG examinations is valuable in terms of changing the course of the treatment. It should be kept in mind that the possibility of accompanying PAF cannot be ruled out in the presence of other factors that pose a risk of stroke.

Locais de Reconexão na Técnica de Reablação após Isolamento das Veias Pulmonares com Criobalão em Pacientes com Fibrilação Atrial Paroxística / Reconnection Sites in Redo Ablation after Cryoballoon Pulmonary Vein Isolation in Patients with Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

Resumo Fundamento Na fibrilação atrial paroxística (FAP), o isolamento das veias pulmonares com criobalão (IVP-CB) tem eficácia semelhante à da ablação por radiofrequência (IVP-RF). Em procedimentos de reablação após IVP-RF, a reconexão das VPs é alta, ao passo que em pacientes com reablação após IVP-CB, as informações são escassas. Objetivo Determinar os locais de reconexão das VPs em pacientes que foram submetidos à reablação após IVP-CB inicial. Métodos Pacientes que foram submetidos a um procedimento de reablação de fibrilação atrial, após um IVP-CB inicial para FAP foram incluídos. O mapeamento eletroanatômico do AE foi utilizado. Um local de reconexão foi definido com a presença de uma voltagem de 0,3mV ou maior nas VPs e condução unidirecional ou bidirecional nas VPs durante o ritmo sinusal. Os locais de reconexão foram identificados por meio de corte paraesternal longitudinal e posteriormente ablacionados com radiofrequência. Resultados Dos 165 pacientes submetidos ao IVP inicial, 27 necessitaram reablações, dos quais 18 (66,6%) eram do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 55+12,3 anos. O tempo de recorrência foi de 8,9+6,4 meses. A reconexão das VPs foi encontrada em 21 (77,8%) pacientes. Houve um total de 132 lacunas de condução, seis por paciente, 3,6 por VP. Um número significativo de lacunas ocorreu na região ântero-superior da VP superior esquerda (VPSE) e nas regiões septal e inferior da VP superior direita (VPSD). Conclusões As VPs superiores apresentaram os locais de maior reconexão, principalmente na região anterior da VPSE e na região septal da VPSD. A razão por trás disso pode ser devido à maior espessura da parede atrial e à dificuldade em alcançar o contato de criobalão adequado.

Abstract Background In paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), pulmonary vein isolation using cryoballoon (CB-PVI) has similar efficacy as radiofrequency ablation (RF-PVI) has. In redo ablation procedures following RF-PVI, PV reconnection is high, whereas in patients with redo following CB-PVI, information is scarce. Objective To determine the sites of PV reconnection in patients who underwent redo ablation after initial CB-PVI. Methods Patients who underwent an AF redo procedure, following an initial CB-PVI for PAF were included. LA electroanatomic mapping was used. A reconnection site was defined as the presence of a voltage of 0.3mV or greater in the PV and unidirectional or bidirectional conduction in the PV during sinus rhythm. Reconnections sites were identified using a clock-face view description and were ablated with radiofrequency afterwards. Results Out of the 165 patients who underwent initial PVI, 27 required redo ablations, of which 18 (66.6%) were males, with a mean age of 55+12.3 years. The time of recurrence was 8.9+6.4 months. PV reconnection was found in 21 (77.8%) patients. There was a total of 132 conduction gaps, six per patient, 3.6 per PV. A significant number of gaps were in the anterosuperior region of the left superior PV (LSPV), and in the septal and inferior regions of the right superior PV (RSPV). Conclusions The upper PVs had the most reconnection sites, mostly at the anterior region of the LSPV and the septal region of the RSPV. The reason behind this may be due to greater atrial wall thickness, and difficulty in achieving adequate cryoballoon contact.

Aplicación de una ley matemática exponencial a la dinámica cardíaca en 16 horas: estudio realizado con 250 pacientes / Application of an exponential mathematical law to cardiac dynamics in 16 hours: a study of 250 patients

Resumen Introducción: Los sistemas dinámicos y la geometría fractal han sido el sustrato para el advenimiento de una ley matemática aplicada al diagnóstico de la dinámica cardíaca en 21 horas. Objetivo: Confirmar la aplicabilidad clínica de la ley matemática exponencial en 16 horas a partir de un estudio de concordancia diagnóstica frente a la norma de referencia. Materiales y método: Se realizó un estudio con 250 registros electrocardiográficos continuos y ambulatorios; 50 pertenecían a pacientes normales y 200 a pacientes con diversas enfermedades cardíacas. Se simuló la secuencia de frecuencias cardíacas y se construyeron los atractores correspondientes. Se calculó la dimensión fractal y la ocupación del atractor en el espacio generalizado de box-counting. Por último, se estableció el diagnóstico fisicomatemático en 16 y 21 horas y se efectuó la validación estadística. Resultados: Los espacios de ocupación para normalidad en la rejilla pequeña se encontraron entre 205 y 372, y entre 56 y 201 para dinámicas patológicas, lo cual permitió evidenciar la capacidad del método para diferenciar normalidad de enfermedad a través de la ocupación espacial de los atractores con base en la ley matemática en 16 horas. Se hallaron valores de sensibilidad y especificidad del 100% y un coeficiente kappa del orden de 1, luego de comparar el diagnóstico fisicomatemático frente a la norma de referencia. Conclusión: La ley matemática exponencial en 16 horas demostró su utilidad como herramienta de ayuda diagnóstica y predictiva, lo cual permitió diferenciar normalidad y estados evolutivos hacia enfermedad y agudización.

Abstract Introduction: Dynamic systems and fractal geometry have been the substrate for the rising of a mathematical law applied to the diagnosis of cardiac dynamics in 21 hours. Objective: To confirm the clinical applicability of the exponential mathematical law in 16 hours, with a study of diagnostic agreement against the Gold Standard. Materials and method: It was made a study with 250 ambulatory and continuous electrocardiographic recordings, 50 belonged to normal patients and 200 to patients with various cardiac pathologies. The sequence of heart rates was simulated, and attractors were constructed. It was calculated the fractal dimension of the attractor and its occupation in the generalized Box-Counting space. Finally, it was determined the physical-mathematical diagnostic in 16 and 21 hours, and statistical validation was performed. Results: The occupation spaces in the small grid were between 205 and 372 for normality, and between 56 and 201 for pathologic dynamics, which demonstrated the ability of the method to differentiate normal condition from sickness, through spatial occupation of attractors according to mathematical law in 16 hours. There were obtained values of sensitivity and specificity of 100% and Kappa coefficient was 1, after comparing the physic-mathematical analysis against the Gold Standard. Conclusion: The exponential mathematical law in 16 hours proved its utility as diagnostic and predictive tool support, allowing to differentiate normal, developmental stages to disease and exacerbation.

Evaluation of Heart Rate Variability in Critically-ill Neonates

Aims: The objective of this work was to evaluate heart rate variability (HRV) in critically-ill neonates admitted to NICU, to detect the effect of different causes of critical illness on cardiac autonomic function and outcome of these neonates.Study Design:Case-control study.Place and Duration of Study:Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Pediatric Department, Tanta University Hospital, in the period from January 2018 to May 2019.Methodology:We included 30 neonates who were critically-ill according to Score for Neonatal Acute Physiology with Perinatal Extension II (SNAPPE-II score) as cases Group. Fifteen healthy full term neonates, matched for age and sex, were enrolled as a control group. 24-hour Holter monitoring was performed with recording and interpretation of ECG data for every neonate in the study, including analysis of HRV.Results:There was significant increase of mean HR in critically-ill neonates as compared to control group. There was significant decrease of all HRV parameters (SDNN, SDANN, SDNNI, RMSSDand PNN50) in critically-ill neonates as compared to control group (P< 0.05). Significant negative correlations between SNAPPE-II score and HRV parameters (SDNN, SDANN, SDNNI, RMSSD, PNN50) in critically-ill neonates were present, whereas there was non-significant positive correlation between SNAPPE-II score and mean heart rate.Conclusion:HRV parameters decreased significantly in critically-ill neonates admitted to NICU, denoting severe cardiac autonomic dysfunction in these sick newborn infants. HRV strongly correlated to severity (SNAPPE-II score) and outcome, with strong relation to mortality of these critically-ill neonates

Experience with Holter monitoring for evaluation of infant arrhythmia

Background: Arrhythmia is defined as abnormal heart rates. Sometimes they are intermittent and difficult to diagnose on routine ECG. Neonatologist and Pediatrician needs to rapidly establish accurate diagnosis and management for infants suspected to have arrhythmia. Hence Holter monitoring of the infants presenting with symptoms suggestive of arrhythmia is necessary as it provides a continuous record of heart's electrical activity. The aim of this paper is to find out the role of continuous ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring in daily clinical practice of Pediatrics.Methods: All infants including neonates, either inborn or brought to the paediatric emergency with risk factors, between January 2016 to January 2018, were included in this prospectively study. Evaluation including chest X-ray, standard 12-lead electrocardiography, 24 hours continuous ECG monitoring using Mortara holter, echocardiography, biochemical and haematological analysis.Results: A total of 73 babies were enrolled in present study. In this study arrhythmia was found in 29 (39.72%) new-borns. The most common arrhythmia observed was supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) (41.3%). Other arrhythmia observed were ventricular tachycardia (VT), AV block (34.4%), atria premature beats (3.4%) and ventricular premature beats (6.89%), tachy-bradyarrhythmia (3.4%) and junctional rhythm (3.4%). Of 29 arrhythmia patients four were diagnosed solely by Holter monitoring. None of the babies had long QT syndrome on Holter monitoring.Conclusions: Cardiac arrhythmias are important causes of infant morbidity, and mortality if undiagnosed and untreated. It is important for the neonatologist and paediatrician to be aware of these of arrhythmias and the various diagnostic modalities available for them. A Holter electrocardiogram may be of value in identification of these transient arrhythmic events.

Evaluación de registros Holter durante 19 horas en el contexto de la teoría de la probabilidad / Evaluation of 19-hour Holter recordings in the context of probability theory

Resumen Introducción: Previamente se desarrolló una nueva metodología de ayuda diagnóstica para los registros Holter fundamentada en los sistemas dinámicos y la teoría de probabilidad, a partir de la información registrada en 21 horas. Objetivo: Evaluar la capacidad diagnóstica de esta metodología durante 19 horas, comparándola con los resultados convencionales del Holter y con los resultados del método matemático aplicado en 21 horas. Materiales y Métodos: fueron evaluados 80 casos de pacientes mayores a 20 años, 10 con registro Holter normal y 70 diagnosticados de forma convencional con diferentes patologías cardíacas. Se establecieron los rangos para las frecuencias cardíacas y de número de latidos por hora en 21 y 19 horas; luego, se calculó la probabilidad de ocurrencia de estos, lo que permitió diferenciar estados de normalidad y enfermedad aguda a partir de tres parámetros. Se comparó el diagnóstico físico-matemático con el diagnóstico convencional, tomado como Gold Standard. Resultados: De los casos normales, dos presentaron probabilidad menor o igual a 0,217 y ocho probabilidades mayores o igual a 0,304; ningún caso de enfermedad aguda presentó valores con probabilidad menor o igual a 0,217, mientras que todos presentaron valores mayores o iguales a 0,304, tanto para los registros Holter evaluados en 21 como en 19 horas. Conclusiones: Se confirmó la utilidad clínica de la metodología ante una reducción del tiempo de evaluación a 19 horas, obteniendo diagnósticos objetivos con base en la auto-organización matemática del fenómeno.

Abstract Background: a new method to help evaluate 21-hour holter recordings based on dynamic systems and the theory of probability was previously developed Aim: to evaluate the diagnostic value of this methodology in the analysis of 19 hr compared to conventional holter analysis over a 21-hr recording. Methods: the holter recordings of 80 subjects aged over 20 years old were analyzed. Ten subjects had a normal holter and 70 conventionally diagnosed as abnormal. Ranges for heart rate and number of beats in 21 or 19 hours were determined. The probability of their occurrence was calculated using 3 parameters. The mathematically derived diagnosis was compared to the clinical diagnosis, considered a gold standard. Results: Among normal cases the calculated probability was ≤ 0.217 in 2 cases and ≥0.304 in 8. No case with acute disease presented probability values ≤0.217; all had probability values ≥0.304, both in 21 and 19 hour recordings. Conclusion: the mathematical methodology described was clinically useful allowing a reduction in recording time from 21 to 19 hr. Clinical diagnosis may be inferred from the mathematical organization of a holter recording.

A successful case of decreasing the frequency of premature ventricular contraction only by acupuncture / 全日本鍼灸学会雑誌

[Objective] Premature ventricular contraction (PVC) causes arrhythmia, and it most frequently occurs in healthy individuals. It has been recently reported that a combination of medical therapy and acupuncture has an effect on arrhythmia. Herein, we report on the use of acupuncture in a patient with PVC.[Case] A 41-year-old male complained of arrhythmia and stiff shoulders. According to the Lown grading system, he was diagnosed with a grade 1 condition using Holter monitor in a hospital for internal diseases. Acupuncture was applied for decreasing the PVC count and discomfort in the chest region.[Methods] Acupuncture was applied at points PC6, BL15, HT7, ST36, GV20, CV17, and KI3. Manipulation involved twirling the stemless needle (30 mm in length, 0.20 mm in diameter) at a low amplitude and high frequency, and the needle was then retained for 10 min. The treatment was applied twice a day for four weeks. Measurements were obtained using a visual analog scale, SF-36v2, and Holter monitor.[Results] After four weeks of treatment, discomfort in the chest region decreased and quality of life improved. Additionally, the PVC count decreased after two weeks of treatment.[Conclusion] Our findings suggest that acupuncture is effective for treatment of PVC.

Caracterización de arritmias cardíacas tras el uso de infusiones analgésicas continuas de tramadol o lidocaína en perras ovariohisterectomizadas / Characterization of cardiac arrhythmias following the use of continuous infusions analgesic of tramadol or lidocaine in dogs ovariohysterectomised / Caracterização de arritmias cardíacas após o uso de infusões analgésicas contínuas de tramadol ou lidocaína no pós-operatório de cadelas ovário histerectomizadas

Resumen El uso de infusiones analgésicas continuas (IACs) es una estrategia eficaz para el control del dolor posquirúrgico en caninos; sin embargo, dependiendo del fármaco empleado, la electrofisiología cardiaca puede verse alterada por la presencia de taquiarritmias, bradiarritmias, complejos ventriculares, fibrilación o bloqueos atrioventriculares. El objetivo de este estudio fue valorar la frecuencia cardiaca y caracterizar las anormalidades electrocardiográficas observadas durante el empleo de infusiones analgésicas continuas posoperatorias de tramadol o lidocaína en perras ovariohisterectomizadas mediante la monitorizacion Holter 24 horas. Para ello se emplearon 26 hembras caninas (26,6 ± 17,6 meses; 15,34 ± 7,81 kg) sanas divididas en tres grupos a saber: Grupo 1 NaCl 0,9% como control (n= 7), Grupo 2 lidocaína 100µg/kg/minuto (n=10) y Grupo 3 tramadol 22µg/kg/minuto (n= 9). No se evidenciaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p<0,05) entre los grupos evaluados. La frecuencia cardiaca media, mínima y máxima encontrada en cada grupo fue: Control 100, 40 y 253 lpm, Lidocaína 93, 42 y 238 lpm, y Tramadol 90, 43 y 253 lpm; Por otra parte, un total de 20/26 (76,9%) de los animales estudiados, presentaron diversas alteraciones electrocardiográficas que incluyeron en su orden CSVP, BAV, CVP y pausas RR. Se concluye que las IACs de tramadol o lidocaína bajo las condiciones del presente estudio no generan alteraciones electrocardiográficas estadisticamente significativas, pero podrian cumplir un papel en la minimización de las mismas al ser empleadas de manera complementaria durante el periodo posoperatorio.

Abstract The use of continuous analgesic infusions (IACs) is an effective strategy for the control of postoperative pain in canines; however, depending on the used drug, cardiac electrophysiology can be altered by the presence of tachyarrhythmias, bradyarrhythmias, ventricular complexes, fibrillation or atrioventricular block. The aim of this study was to evaluate the heart rate and to characterize the electrocardiographic abnormalities during the use of continuous postoperative analgesic infusions of tramadol or lidocaine in ovariohysterectomized bitches using 24-hour Holter monitoring. For this purpose, 26 healthy canine females (26.6 ± 17.6 months, 15.34 ± 7.81 kg) were divided into three groups: Group 1 NaCl 0.9% as control (n = 7), Group 2 lidocaine 100μg / kg / minute (n = 10) and Group 3 tramadol 22μg / kg / minute (n = 9). As results the mean, minimum and maximum heart rate found in each group were Control 100, 40 and 253 bpm. Lidocaine 93, 42 and 238 bpm and Tramadol 90, 43 and 253 bpm; on the other hand, a total of 20/26 (76.9%) of the studied animals presented several electrocardiographic alterations that included in their order SVPC, AVB, VPC and RR pauses, however, there were no statistically significant differences (p<0.05) between the evaluated groups. It is concluded that the IACs of tramadol or lidocaine under the described experimental conditions do not generate statistically significant electrocardiographic alterations, but could play a role in the minimization of those parameters when used in a complementary way during the postoperative period.

Resumo O uso de infusões contínuas de analgésicos (ICA) é uma estratégia eficaz para o controle da dor pós-operatória em cães. No entanto, dependendo do fármaco utilizado, a eletrofisiologia cardíaca pode ser alterada observando-se a presença de taquiarritmias, bradiarritmias, complexos ventriculares, fibrilação ou bloqueios atrioventriculares. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a frequência cardíaca e caracterizar as anomalias eletrocardiográficas, utilizando-se Holter 24 horas, observadas durante o uso de infusões analgésicas contínuas de Tramadol ou Lidocaína no pós-operatório de cadelas ovário histerectomizadas. Para isso, foram utilizadas 26 cadelas saudáveis (26,6 ± 17,6 meses; 15,34 ± 7,81 kg) divididas em três grupos: Grupo 1 NaCl 0,9% como controle (n=7), Grupo 2 lidocaína 100 µg/kg/minuto (n=10) e Grupo 3 Tramadol 22 µg/kg/minuto (n=9). Não foram evidenciadas diferenças estatisticamente significativas (p< 0,05) entre os grupos avaliados. A frequência cardíaca média, mínima e máxima encontradas em cada grupo foram: Controle 100, 40 e 238 bpm, Lidocaína 93, 42 e 238 bpm, e Tramadol 90, 43 e 253 bpm. Por outro lado, um total de 20/26 (76,9%) dos animais estudados apresentaram diversas alterações eletrocardiográficas incluindo, em ordem do mais para o menos frequente, CSVP, BAV, CVP e pausas RR. Concluiu-se que as ICA de tramadol ou lidocaína, nas condições do presente estudo, não produziram alterações eletrocardiográficas estatisticamente significativas, mas poderiam minimizar as mesmas se fossem utilizadas de forma complementar durante o período pós-operatório.

Utilidad del Monitoreo Holter de 96 horas para la Detección de Fibrilación Auricular en eventos Cerebrovasculares Agudos / Usefulness of 96-hour Holter Monitoring for auricular fibrillation detection in acute cerebrovascular events

Introducción: Cerca del 25% de eventos isquémicos cerebrales son secundarios a fibrilación auricular (FA) paroxística y los pacientes requieren anticoagulación oral permanente. Es necesario identificarlos para prevenir su aparición. El método de rutina utilizado es el Holter de 24 horas. Materiales y Métodos: En un período de 21 meses, 100 pacientes con diagnóstico presuntivo de un evento cerebrovascular isquémico agudo (ECV) o ataque isquémico transitorio (AIT), de origen embólico, fueron sometidos a monitoreo Holter de 96 horas, para detectar fibrilación auricular paroxística. Resultados: En 7% de ellos se encontró alguna forma de esta arritmia, así como en 7,8% de aquellos con diagnóstico de ECV o AIT confirmados y sin evidencia de fuente cardioembólica. Discusión: Concluimos que el método de Holter de 96 horas es mejor que el rutinario de 24 horas, pero para mejorar su sensibilidad, se requiere seleccionar a los pacientes con mayor probabilidad de presentar la arritmia.

Introduction: Close to 25% of cerebrovascular events are related to paroxistic atrial fibrillation (AF), that is why AF patients need to receive permanent oral anticoagulation. We need to identify them to prevent the events. The usual test employed has been the 24 hours Holter. Methods: In a period of 21.5 months, 100 patients with presumptive diagnosis of acute ischemic cerebrovascular event or transient ischemic attack of embolic origin, underwent 96 hours Holter monitoring to detect paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Results: In nearly 7% of these patients this kind of arrhythmia was found, as well as, in 7.8% of those with confirmed stroke without evidence of cardioembolic source. Discusion: We conclude that the 96 hours Holter is better than the routinary 24-hour Holter, though, in order to incresae the sensitivity of this test, it is worthwhile to choose patientes with higher probability to present this arrhytmia.

Diagnostic values of Holter monitoring in children with unexplained syncope / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Holter monitoring remains an useful diagnostic tool in the evaluation of syncope in children if synco-pe remains unexplained after the initial examination.But it should not be used as a screening tool.Holter monitoring is recommended in children who were suspected as cardiac syncope or who had an abnormal electrocardiogram.For chil-dren with frequent syncope,Holter monitoring is highly recommended.More information can be provided with extended Holter monitoring to 48 hours if possible.Heart rate variability is probably useful in predicting head -up tilt test diagno-sis of neurally mediated syncope.

Influência da altitude sobre parâmetros eletrocardiográficos, obtidos por meio do uso do "Holter" em cavalos de enduro em diferentes níveis de condicionamento físico / Influence of altitude on electrocardiographic parameters by means of the Holter system utilization in endurance horses in different levels of physical conditioning

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo o estudo da influência da altitude sobre os parâmetros eletrocardiográficos obtidos por meio do uso do Holter em 40 cavalos das raças Árabe e Cruza Árabe, em diferentes níveis de condicionamento físico, realizando treinamento em trilhas de 15 km de extensão com velocidade média de 15km/h e variando entre o nível do mar até 1700m de altitude. O monitoramento eletrocardiográfico foi obtido por eletrocardiografia padrão em repouso antes do exercício e por eletrocardiografia dinâmica, com o uso do Holter, durante o exercício e na recuperação pós-exercício. Os animais apresentaram ritmo sinusal com período médio gravado para taquicardia sinusal (32%) e bradicardia sinusal (14%). Entre as arritmias observadas estão o bloqueio atrioventricular de primeiro grau (20%) e o bloqueio atrioventricular de segundo grau (5%). As arritmias ectópicas supraventriculares foram observadas em dois animais e somente um animal apresentou arritmia ventricular. O número de assistolias foi maior em animais menos condicionados. As frequências cardíacas médias e máximas sofreram efeito da altitude com valores maiores em altitude elevada.(AU)

The aim of this paper was to study the influence of altitude on electrocardiographic parameters by means of the Holter system in 40 Arabian and Arabian crossbred horses, at different levels of physical conditioning, during training in trails of 15 km extension with mean speed of 15 km/h, and altitude varying from sea level to 1700m high. The electrocardiographic monitoring was obtained by standard electrocardiography at rest before exercise, and by dynamic electrocardiography with the Holter system applied during exercise and in post-exercise recovery. The animals presented sinusal rhythm, with a mean registered period for sinusal tachycardia of 32%, and 14% for sinusal bradycardia. Among the arrhythmias there was first-degree atrioventricular block (20%) and second-degree atrioventricular block (5%). Supraventricular ectopic arrhythmias were observed in two horses and only one showed ventricular arrhythmia. The number of asystoles was greater in less conditioned horses. Mean and maximal heart rates were influenced by altitude, with higher values in higher altitudes.(AU)

Research on the value of holter monitoring in the evaluation of silent myocardial ischemia / 中国医学装备

Objective:To investigate the value of the Holter monitoring in silent myocardial ischemia (SMI).Methods: Sixty-eight patients with silent myocardial ischemia had the Holter monitoring.Results:Sixty-eight cases were detected 263 times of the SMI, Among them 05:00-12:00 highest incidence occurs 156 times total, 52.88% of the total number; second highest incidence of the time period of 18:00-22:00, total occurred 97 times, the total number of of 32.88%; 22:00-05:00 totaling occurred 46 times, the total number of 15.59%. There are a total of 187 predisposing factors array times, 63.34% of the total number. Heart rate greater than 100 bpm, SMI total array occurred 175 times, 59.32% of the total number; heart rate>65 bpm and

Influência da altitude sobre parâmetros eletrocardiográficos, obtidos por meio do uso do "Holter" em cavalos de enduro em diferentes níveis de condicionamento físico

Abstract: The aim of this paper was to study the influence of altitude on electrocardiographic parameters by means of the Holter system in 40 Arabian and Arabian crossbred horses, at different levels of physical conditioning, during training in trails of 15 km extension with mean speed of 15 km/h, and altitude varying from sea level to 1700m high. The electrocardiographic monitoring was obtained by standard electrocardiography at rest before exercise, and by dynamic electrocardiography with the Holter system applied during exercise and in post-exercise recovery. The animals presented sinusal rhythm, with a mean registered period for sinusal tachycardia of 32%, and 14% for sinusal bradycardia. Among the arrhythmias there was first-degree atrioventricular block (20%) and second-degree atrioventricular block (5%). Supraventricular ectopic arrhythmias were observed in two horses and only one showed ventricular arrhythmia. The number of asystoles was greater in less conditioned horses. Mean and maximal heart rates were influenced by altitude, with higher values in higher altitudes.

Resumo: O presente trabalho teve por objetivo o estudo da influência da altitude sobre os parâmetros eletrocardiográficos obtidos por meio do uso do Holter em 40 cavalos das raças Árabe e Cruza Árabe, em diferentes níveis de condicionamento físico, realizando treinamento em trilhas de 15 km de extensão com velocidade média de 15km/h e variando entre o nível do mar até 1700m de altitude. O monitoramento eletrocardiográfico foi obtido por eletrocardiografia padrão em repouso antes do exercício e por eletrocardiografia dinâmica, com o uso do Holter, durante o exercício e na recuperação pós-exercício. Os animais apresentaram ritmo sinusal com período médio gravado para taquicardia sinusal (32%) e bradicardia sinusal (14%). Entre as arritmias observadas estão o bloqueio atrioventricular de primeiro grau (20%) e o bloqueio atrioventricular de segundo grau (5%). As arritmias ectópicas supraventriculares foram observadas em dois animais e somente um animal apresentou arritmia ventricular. O número de assistolias foi maior em animais menos condicionados. As frequências cardíacas médias e máximas sofreram efeito da altitude com valores maiores em altitude elevada.

Parámetros clínicos y electrocardiográficos por décadas de vida. Análisis por el Holter de 24 horas / Clinical and electrocardiographics parameters, for decades of life. Analysis for the Holter of 24 hours

INTRODUCCIÓN: el electrocardiograma, tiene variaciones normales, de acuerdo con las edades, existiendo alteraciones del ritmo cardiaco, conforme avanza la edad; asi mismo los síntomas y su correlación con las arritmias, varían con la edad y con el sexo de los pacientes. Estas variaciones, pueden registrarse mejor con el Holter de 24 horas. OBJETIVOS: utilizar el Holter de 24 horas, para indagar variaciones, por décadas de vida de: síntomas, arritmias, correlacion síntomas- arritmias y la diferencia de estas variables según el sexo de los pacientes. METODOS: Se efectuaron 1220 estudios a 662 mujeres y a 558 hombres con un rango de edad entre 1 y 93 años. Las variables fueron: edad, sexo, síntomas (disnea, síncope, palpitaciones, lipotimia y dolor precordial); arritmias ventriculares y supraventriculares; correlación positiva, cuándo la arritmia coincidió con el síntoma, correlación negativa, si la arritmia no concidió con el síntoma o el mismo estuvo ausente; si no se registraron arritmias, el estudio fue calificado como normal, Los pacientes fueron clasificados por décadas de vida, correlacionandose las distintas variables con los grupos etareos. RESULTADOS: pacientes sintomáticos 42%. Arritmias 82%. Correlación positiva 23%. Estudios normales 18%. Los hombres predominaron en las edades extremas. Las palpitaciones fueron el síntoma más frecuente, predominando en la década de los 30. Las lipotimias, fueron más frecuentes conforme aumentaba la edad. Las extrasístoles aumentaron en frecuencia conforme la edad avanzaba. La Taquicardia Supraventricular, aumentó progresivamente desde los 30 años. La Fibrilación y Aleteo Auriculares, empezaron a presentarse a los 40 años, haciendose más frecuentes en cada década. Paro Sinusal, se presentó a los 60 años. El Bloqueo A-V Completo, fue mayor al final de las edades. La correlación positiva, fue frecuente en las edades medias. Los estudios normales fueron frecuentes solamente en las primeras edades. Las arritmias, fueron incrementándose, según avanzaba la edad. CONCLUSIÓN: en cada grupo etario, los parámetros clínicos y electrocardiográficos, son diferentes; los pacientes sintomáticos, así como la correlación positiva, son menos frecuentes en las edades extremas; determinadas arritmias se registran cada vez más frecuente, según la edad avanza, debido al progresivo envejecimiento del sistema excitoconductor.

INTRODUCTION: the electrocardiogram , has normal variations in accordance with the ages, existing alterations of the heart rhythm as the age advances , likewise the symptoms and its correlation with the arrhythmias, the vary with the age and the sex of the patients, these variations can register better with the 24 hours Holter monitoring. OBJETIVES: to use the 24 hour Holter monitoring, to investigate variations, for decades oflife of: symptoms, arrhythmias, correlation symptoms-arrhythmias, and the difference of these variables, according to the sex of patients. METHODS: the made studies were 1220, to 662 women and 558 man, with an age range between 1 and 93 years. The variables were: age, sex, symptoms (dyspnea, syncope, presyncope, palpitations and chest pain); ventricular and supraventricular arrhythmias; positive correlation, when the arrhythmia coincide with the symptom; negative correlation, if the arrhythmia didn't coincide with the symptom, or the same on was absent; if they didn't register arrhythmias, the study qualified as normal. The patients were classified by decades of life, being correlated the different variables with the age groups. RESULTS: symptomatic patients 42%, Arrhythmias 81%; positive correlation 23%; normal studies 18%. The men prevailed in the aged extremes. The palpitations, were the most frequent symptom, prevalent in the years 30. The presyncope were most frequent, as the age increased. The premature beats increased in the frequency, as the age advanced. The Supraventricular Tachycardia, increased progressively, from the 30 years. The Atrial Fibrillations and Flutter, the began to be presented, to the 40 years, being made but you frequent in every decade. The Sinus Arrrested, was presented to the 60 years. The Complete Heart Block, were most frequent at the end of the ages. The positive correlation, were frequent in the middle ages. The normal studies, were frequent, only in the first ages. The arrhythmias, were being increased, as the age advanced. CONCLUSION: in each age group, the clinical, and electrocardiográphics parameters, the are different; the symptomatic patients, as well as the positive correlation, the are less frequent in the extreme ages; determined arrhythmias, the register more frequent according to the age it advances, due to progressive aging of the excitoconductor systems.

Características clínicas de pacientes llevados a monitoría externa de eventos / Clinical characteristics of patients undergoing external monitoring of events

Para la evaluación del paciente con síntomas que sugieran arritmia cardiaca existen varios métodos que pueden ser utilizados. En ese sentido, los monitores externos de eventos pueden mejorar la sensibilidad del diagnóstico. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y transversal, que incluyó la revisión de resultados de la monitoría externa de eventos de 203 pacientes. El motivo más común por el cual se solicitó el monitor externo de eventos fueron las palpitaciones en 161 pacientes (79,3%), seguidas por síncope en 21 pacientes (10,3%). El diagnóstico más habitual fue el ritmo sinusal normal sin otras alteraciones en 59 pacientes (29%), seguido por taquicardia sinusal en 54 (26,6%), extrasistolia ventricular en 24 (11,8%), extrasistolia auricular en 17 (8,3%), taquicardia auricular no sostenida en 12 (5,9%) y, en forma menos frecuente, taquicardia supraventricular en 8 (3,94%), taquicardia ventricular no sostenida en 5 (2,4%) y trastorno de la conducción interventricular en 6 (2,9%). Este es el primer estudio descriptivo de la monitoría externa de eventos llevado a cabo en Colombia. Desde el punto de vista epidemiológico y de diagnóstico electrocardiográfico, los hallazgos son similares a los resultados de estudios previos, con las limitaciones que ofrece un análisis de este tipo.

There are a variety of methods that can be used for the evaluation of patients with symptoms suggestive of cardiac arrhythmia; in this regard, external monitoring of events can improve the sensitivity of diagnosis. A descriptive, retrospective and cross-sectional study, which included review of the results of external monitoring of events of 203 patients was performed. The most common reason for requesting external monitoring of events was palpitations in 161 patients (79.3%), followed by syncope in 21 patients (10.3%). The most common diagnosis was normal sinus rhythm with no other abnormalities in 59 patients (29%), followed by sinus tachycardia in 54 (26.6%), ventricular extrasystoles in 24 (11.8%), atrial extrasystoles in 17 (8.3%), non-sustained atrial tachycardia in 12 (5.9%), and less frequently supraventricular tachycardia in 8 (3.94%), non-sustained ventricular tachycardia in 5 patients (2.4%) and interventricular conduction disturbance in 6 (2.9%). This is the first descriptive study of external monitoring of events held in Colombia. From the epidemiological and diagnosis electrocardiographic point of view, the findings are similar to results of previous studies, with the limitations that provides this type of analysis.

Correlación de síntomas con arritmias cardiacas, por el holter de 2 horas / Correation of caardiac arrhythmias with symptoms for the 24 hours holter

Introducción.- El Holter de 24 horas, es utiizado como un exámen no invasivo, para detectar arritmias cardíacas y correlacionar con los síntomas que refiere el paciente. Objetivos.- Correlacionar la arritmia y el síntoma, determinar: la capacidad de la arritmia, para provocar síntomas, sensibilidad del síntoma, para detectar arritmias y posibilidades de tratamiento con los resultados. Método.- Se efectuaron 1146 estudios, los pacientes llevaron un diario, donde anotaron los síntomas y la hora del mismo, pulsándo el boton de eventos de la grabadora. Se definió como correlación positiva, cuándo la arritmia coincidió con el síntoma, correlación negativa, si la arritmia no coincidió con el síntoma, o el mismo estuvo ausente; si no se registraron arritmias, se calificó como estudio indeterminado. Se correlacionaron las medias de los valores, para obtener diferencia estadística y se calcularon los índices de sensibilidad y especificidad. Resultados.- Durante el estudio, 42%, tuvieron síntomas: palpitaciones 81%, lipotimias 15%, disnea 3% y dolor precordial 7%. En 82% se registraron arritmias: Extrasistolia Supraventricular 71%, Extrasistolia Ventricular 68%, Taquicardia Supraventricular 17%, Fibrilación Auricular 8%, Taquicardia Sinusal 7%, Bloqueo Auriculoventricular 4%, Taquicardia Ventricular 2%, Aleteo Auricular 2%, Paro Sinusal 0,5%. Correlación positiva, se encontró en un 22%; la cual fue mayor para las palpitaciones en un 58%, siguiendo el dolor predordial 26%, lipotimias 25 % y disnea 20%. La Taquicardia Sinusal, el Paro Sinusal y el Aleteo Auricular produjeron síntomas más frecuentemente, las Extrasístoles produjeron menos síntomas. La sensibilidad del síntoma para detectar arritmias fue 43% y la especificidad 66 %. Estudios normales fueron 18%. Conclusión.- La correlación síntoma-arritmia del Holter de 24 horas, fue baja, así como la sensibilidad del síntoma, para detectar arritmias. Debiéndo tomar en cuenta la frecuencia de los síntomas para indicar el estudio, siendo preferible utilizar el Registrador de Eventos, en caso de que los síntomas no sean cotidianos.

Introduction.- The 24 hours Holter monitoring is used as an exam noninvasive, to detect cardiac arrhythmias and to correlate with the symptoms that the patient refers. Objetives.- To correlate the arrhythmia and the symptom. To determinate: the capacity of the arrhythmia to cause symptoms, sensibility of the symptom to detect arrhythmias and treatment possibilities with the results. Methods.- Thousand hundred forty six studies were made, the patients took a diary, whey they wrote the symptoms, and the hour the same ones, pressing the button of the events of the recorder. It was defined: as positive correlation, when the arrhythmia coincided with the symptom, negative correlation, if the arrhythmia didn't coincide with the symptom, or the same one was absent; if they didn't register arrhythmias, it was qualified like uncertain study. The mean of the values were correlated, to obtain difference statistic and the index of sensibility and specificity were calculated. Results.- During the study 42% they had symptoms: palpitations 81%, presyncope 15%, dyspnoea 3%, chest pain 7%. In 82%, they were registered arrhythmias: Supraventricular premature beats 71%, Ventricular premature beats 68%, Supraventricular Tachycardia 17%, Atrial Fibrillation 8%, Sinus Tachycardia 7%, A-V Heart Block 4%, Ventricular Tachycardia 2%, Atrial Flutter 2%, Sinus Arrest 0,5%. Correlation positive was in 22%, being bigger for the palpitations in 58%, then the chest pain 26%, presyncope 25% and dyspnea 20%. The Sinus Tachycardia, the Sinus Arrest, and the Atrial Flutter, produced more symptoms, the premature beats, produced less symptoms. The sensibility of the symptom to detected arrhythmias, it was 43% and the specificity 66% . Normal studies were 18%. Conclusion.- There was a low correlation betwen symptoms and arrhythmias, as well as the sensibility of the symptom to detected arrhythmias. Should take in account the frecuency of the symptoms to indicate the study, being preferable to use the Cardiac Events recorders, when the symptoms are not daily.