Could We Predict POAF With a Simple Ambulatory Oscillometry Evaluating Aortic Stiffness?

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the relationship between aortic stiffness and postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: This study included 110 patients undergoing elective isolated CABG. Aortic stiffness was measured using a noninvasive oscillometric sphygmomanometer before surgery. Characteristics of patients with and without POAF were compared. Results: POAF developed in 32 (29.1%) patients. Patients with POAF were older (63.7±8.6 vs. 58.3±8.4; P=0.014). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was more common in patients with POAF (11.5% vs. 37.5%; P=0.024), whereas the frequency of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and previous coronary artery disease did not differ. C-reactive protein and cholesterol levels were similar between patients with and without POAF. Left atrial diameter was greater in patients with POAF (35.9±1.6 vs. 36.7±1.7; P<0.039). Peripheral (p) and central (c) systolic and diastolic blood pressures were also similar between the groups, whereas both p and c pulse pressures (PP) were greater in patients with POAF (pPP: 44.3±11.9 vs. 50.3±11.6; P=0.018, cPP: 31.4±8.1 vs. 36.2±8.9; P=0.008). Pulse wave velocity (PWV) was significantly higher in POAF (8.6+1.3 vs. 9.4+1.3; P=0.006). PWV, pPR and COPD were independent predictors of POAF in multivariate regression analysis. In receiver operating characteristic analysis, PWV and pPP have similar accuracy for predicting POAF (PWV, area under the curve [AUC]: 0.661, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.547-0.775], P=0.009) (pPP, AUC: 0.656, 95% CI [0.542-0.769], P=0.012). Conclusion: COPD, PWV, and PP are predictors of POAF. PP and PWV, easily measured in office conditions, might be useful for detecting patients with a higher risk of POAF.

Correlation of cholesterol ratios and conventional isolated lipid parameters as cardiovascular risk markers to anthropometric and hemodynamic variables in healthy overweight/obese subjects

Background: Isolated lipid derangements are no longer considered as an ideal tool to predict cardiovascular (CV) morbidity. Hence, novel parameters, that is, lipid ratios are being resorted to label CV risk. However, which of the ratios stand out as the most specific, sensitive, and earliest predictor in individual cases is still to be elucidated. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to study correlation of cholesterol ratios and conventional isolated lipid parameters as CV risk markers to anthropometric and hemodynamic variables in healthy overweight/obese subjects. Materials and Methods: This was an analytical, observational, and pilot study enrolling 30 overweight/obese subjects as cases and 30 non-obese subjects as controls segregated on basis of body mass index (BMI) and WHR. All subjects with secondary cause of abnormal blood flow were excluded from the study. Blood pressure measurement and venous blood sampling for serum glucose and fasting lipid parameters were duly done. Results: Of all the isolated lipid values and the three lipid ratios (Total Chl a [T. Chl]/high density lipoprotein [HDL], low-density lipoprotein [LDL]/HDL, triglyceride [TG]/HDL), the two groups differing significantly only in T. Chl/HDL ratio which, in turn, significantly strongly positively correlated to both LDL/HDL and TG/HDL ratio ([r = 0.684, P = 0.000] [r = 0.433, P = 0.001]), respectively. All the physical hemodynamic parameters (systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure) were significantly different in both groups but none of them correlated with the lipid parameters. Of the two (waist hip ratio and BMI) anthropometric measures, only BMI had significant positive moderate strength correlation to lipid parameters and ratios. Conclusion: T. Chl/HDL ratio seems to be the ideal lipid marker in early prediction of CV disease in apparently healthy obese subjects. Lipid derangements in apparently healthy mild-to-moderate grade obese subjects may not universally present with hemodynamic derangements.

Comparison of vena cava distensibility index and pulse pressure variation for the evaluation of intravascular volume in critically ill children

Abstract Objective: In this study, the authors aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the vena cava distensibility index and pulse pressure variation as dynamic parameters for estimating intravascular volume in critically ill children. Methods: Patients aged 1 month to 18 years, who were hospitalized in the present study's pediatric intensive care unit, were included in the study. The patients were divided into two groups according to central venous pressure: hypovolemic (< 8mmHg) and non-hypovolemic (central venous pressure ≥ 8 mmHg) groups. In both groups, vena cava distensibility index was measured using bedside ultrasound and pulse pressure variation. Measurements were recorded and evaluated under arterial monitoring. Results: In total, 19 (47.5%) of the 40 subjects included in the study were assigned to the central venous pressure ≥ 8 mmHg group, and 21 (52.5%) to the central venous pressure < 8 mmHg group. A moderate positive correlation was found between pulse pressure variation and vena cava distensibility index (r = 0.475, p < 0.01), while there were strong negative correlations of central venous pressure with pulse pressure variation and vena cava distensibility index (r = -0.628, p < 0.001 and r = -0.760, p < 0.001, respectively). In terms of predicting hypovolemia, the predictive power for vena cava distensibility index was > 16% (sensitivity, 90.5%; specificity, 94.7%) and that for pulse pressure variation was > 14% (sensitivity, 71.4%; specificity, 89.5%). Conclusion: Vena cava distensibility index has higher sensitivity and specificity than pulse pressure variation for estimating intravascular volume, along with the advantage of non-invasive bedside application.

Clinical value of pulse pressure/central venous pressure ratio in low cardiac output syndrome after cardiac surgery / 中华危重病急救医学

Objective:To explore the relationship between the pulse pressure/central venous pressure (PP/CVP) ratio and the cardiac output (CO) of patients after cardiac surgery from the basic principles of hemodynamics, and to further evaluate the predictive value of PP/CVP ratio in patients with secondary low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS) after cardiac surgery.Methods:A retrospective study was conducted, and patients who received pulse indicator continuous cardiac output (PiCCO) monitoring were enrolled at the department of critical care medicine of Peking Union Medical College Hospital from January 1, 2016, to September 1, 2021. Patients were divided into two groups: the LCOS group [cardiac index (CI) < 33.34 mL·s -1·m -2, 25 cases] and the non-LCOS group (CI ≥ 33.34 mL·s -1·m -2, 125 cases) according to the CI at 6 hours after surgery. The general clinical data and hemodynamic parameters were collected. Correlations between PP/CVP ratio and PiCCO monitoring indicators were performed with Pearson or Spearman correlation test. Receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC curve) analysis was carried out to evaluate the predictive value of the parameters in patients with LCOS after cardiac surgery. Results:A total of 150 patients with PiCCO monitoring after cardiac surgery were included. There were no differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups, while PP in the LCOS group was lower than that in the non-LCOS group [mmHg (1 mmHg ≈ 0.133 kPa): 40 (37, 44) vs. 55 (46, 64)], CVP was higher than that in the non-LCOS group [mmHg: 12 (11, 14) vs. 10 (8, 12)], and PP/CVP ratio in the LCOS group was lower than that in the non-LCOS group [3.3 (2.9, 3.7) vs. 5.5 (4.6, 6.8)], with significant differences (all P < 0.05). Correlation analysis results showed that PP/CVP ratio was positively correlated with CI, CO, and stroke volume index (SVI), respectively ( rs = 0.660, 0.592, 0.600, all P < 0.001). CI was negatively correlated with PP ( rs = 0.509, P < 0.001) and positively correlated with CVP ( rs = -0.297, P < 0.001). ROC curve analysis revealed that compared with PP, CVP, SVI and cardiac function index (CFI), PP/CVP ratio was the best predictor of LCOS after cardiac surgery [area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.94±0.02, P < 0.001], when the optimum cut-off value was 4.41, the sensitivity was 80.00%, and the specificity was 96.00%. Conclusion:PP/CVP ratio was moderately positively correlated with CO after cardiac surgery, and PP/CVP ratio could be used as a prognostic predictor for LCOS after cardiac surgery.

Methods and research progress of noninvasive assessment of arterial stiffness / 中华老年医学杂志

Arterial stiffness plays a major role in the pathogenesis of numerous age-related diseases.Pulse wave velocity, distensibility, wave reflection, and pulse pressure are used to assess arterial stiffness, but the features and clinical significance of each parameter are different.Combined application of these parameters can comprehensively evaluate arterial stiffness.This review summarizes the methods and research progress of noninvasive assessment of arterial stiffness.

Predictors and reference equations for augmentation index, an arterial stiffness marker, in healthy children and adolescents

OBJECTIVES: To investigate predictors and propose reference equations for the augmentation index normalized to 75 bpm heart rate (AIx@75) in healthy children and adolescents. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, observational study involving 134 healthy children and adolescents aged 9 to 19 years old. Participants were categorized into child (n=53) and adolescent (n=81) groups, as well as into male (n=69) and female (n=65) groups. We evaluated AIx@75, vascular and hemodynamic parameters, anthropometric data, physical activity profile, and quality of life (Peds-QL4.0; physical, emotional, social and school domains). RESULTS: The predictors of AIx@75 in the whole sample were age, peripheral diastolic blood pressure (pDBP), mean arterial pressure, pulse pressure amplification (PPA), systolic volume (SV), cardiac index (CI), and pulse wave velocity (PWV; R2=80.47%). In the male group, the predictors of AIx@75 were SV, CI, total vascular resistence (TVR), and PWV (R2=78.56%), while in the female group, they were pDBP, PPA, SV, and PWV (R2=82.45%). In the children, they were pDBP, PPA, SV, and PWV (R2=79.17%), while in the adolescents, they were body mass index, pDBP, PPA, SV, TVR, and PWV (R2=81.57%). CONCLUSION: In the present study, we used a representative sample from Belo Horizonte to establish normality values of AIx@75. We also identified, for the first time, independent predictors of AIx@75 in healthy children and adolescents categorized by sex and age. Determining AIx@75 reference equations may facilitate the early diagnosis of preclinical atherosclerosis and allow an objective measure of the vascular effects of therapeutic interventions aimed at modifying cardiovascular risk factors.

Association between pulse pressure and new-onset diabetes in overweight and obese people / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

Objective:To investigate the association between pulse pressure(PP) and new-onset diabetes in overweight and obese people.Methods:A prospective cohort study was conducted in overweight or obese participants selected from Kailuan Study who underwent 2006-2007 annual checkup and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. PP was calculated by blood pressure and participants were divided into 4 groups according to PP quartile. The cumulative incidence of new-onset diabetes of different PP groups was calculated by Kaplan- Meier method and compare by Log- Rank test. The multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was used to analyze the association between different PP groups and new-onset diabetes. Results:During an average follow-up of 8.45 years, 8 922 diabetes was identified. The cumulative incidence rate of the Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 groups were 22.12%, 24.48%, 27.97%, and 33.44% respectively, which were statistically different( χ2=368.16, P<0.01). Cox proportional hazards regression analysis showed that after adjusting for multiple confounding factors, compared with Q1 group, the hazard ratio for diabetes in Q2, Q3, and Q4 groups were 1.07(1.00-1.14), 1.13(1.05-1.21), and 1.17(1.09-1.27) respectively. And the HR of diabetes event in pulse pressure(per 1 SD increase) was 1.04(1.02-1.07). Similar results were found in participants who were over-weight, obese, with normal blood pressure or hypertensive without drugs use. Conclusion:PP is positively correlated with the new-onset diabetes. High PP is one of the risk factors for developing diabetes in overweight and obese people.

Effects of different blood pressure variables and their variabilities on the development of diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus / 中华内分泌代谢杂志

Objective:To analyze the effects of different blood pressure variables and their variabilities on diabetic nephropathy(DN)in patients with type 2 diabetes.Methods:This prospective cohort study included 3 050 type 2 diabetic patients without DN at baseline from Lee′s clinic in Taiwan, China. The metabolic parameters of patients were regularly checked, and urine albumin creatinine ratio(UACR)were evaluated annually. The average follow-up period was 7 years(3-10 years). The means and standard deviations(SD)of systolic blood pressure(SBP), diastolic blood pressure(DBP), pulse pressure(PP), and mean arterial pressure(MAP)were calculated. According to whether SBP-Mean was higher or lower than 130 mmHg(1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) and SBP-SD was higher or lower than 11.06 mmHg(average SBP-SD), these patients were divided into four groups: Q1(SBP-Mean<130 mmHg, SBP-SD<11.06 mmHg); Q2(SBP-Mean<130 mmHg, SBP-SD≥11.06 mmHg); Q3(SBP-Mean≥130 mmHg, SBP-SD<11.06 mmHg); Q4(SBP-Mean≥130 mmHg, SBP-SD≥11.06 mmHg). In the same way, according to whether PP-Mean was higher or lower than 80 mmHg(average PP-Mean)and PP-SD was higher or lower than 6.48 mmHg(average PP-SD), the patients were divided into Q1-Q4 groups.Results:After adjusting age, sex, and diabetes duration, Cox regression analysis showed that SBP-Mean, SBP-SD, PP-Mean, and PP-SD were the risk factors of DN. After the stratification according to SBP-Mean and SBP-SD, the patients in Q4 group( HR=1.976, P<0.001)had the highest risk while those in Q1 group displayed the lowest risk for DN. Additionally, the patients in Q3 group( HR=1.614, P<0.001)imposed a higher risk than that in Q2 group( HR=1.408, P<0.001). By stratificating the patients based on PP-Mean and PP-SD, the patients in Q4 group revealed the highest risk of DN( HR=1.370, P<0.001)while those in Q1 group had the lowest risk. In addition, the patients in Q3 group( HR=1.266, P<0.001)had a higher risk of DN compared with those in Q2 group( HR=1.212, P<0.001). Conclusion:SBP and PP variabilities are the predictors of DN in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Comparison of pulse pressure variation, stroke volume variation, and plethysmographic variability index in pediatric patients undergoing craniotomy / 北京大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVE@#To compare well-known preload dynamic parameters intraoperatively including stroke volume variation (SVV), pulse pressure variation (PPV), and plethysmographic variability index (PVI) in children who underwent craniotomy for epileptogenic lesion excision.@*METHODS@#A total of 30 children aged 0 to 14 years undergoing craniotomy for intracranial epileptogenic lesion excision were enrolled. During surgery, we measured PPV, SVV (measured by the Flotrac/Vigileo device), and PVI (measured by the Masimo Radical-7 monitor) simultaneously and continuously. Preload dynamic parameter measurements were collected at predefined steps: after induction of anesthesia, during opening the skull, intraoperative electroencephalogram monitoring, excision of epileptogenic lesion, skull closure, at the end of the operation. After exclusion of outliers, agreement among SVV, PPV, and PVI was assessed using repeated measures of Bland-Altman approach. The 4-quadrant and polar plot techniques were used to assess the trending ability among the changes in the three parameters.@*RESULTS@#The mean SVV, PPV, and PVI were 8%±2%, 10%±3%, and 15%±7%, respectively during surgery. We analyzed a total of 834 paired measurements (3 to 8 data sets for each phase per patient). Repeated measures Bland-Altman analysis identified a bias of -2.3 and 95% confidence intervals between -1.9 and -2.7 (95% limits of agreement between -6.0 and 1.5) between PPV and SVV, showing significant correlation at all periods. The bias between PPV and PVI was -5.0 with 95% limits of agreement between -20.5 and 10.5, and that between SVV and PVI was -7.5 with 95% limits of agreement between -22.7 and 7.8, both not showing significant correlation. Reflected by 4-quadrant plots, the con-cordance rates showing the trending ability between the changes in PPV and SVV, PPV and PVI, SVV and PVI were 88.6%, 50.4%, and 50.1%, respectively. The concordance rate between PPV and SVV was higher (92.7%) in children aged less than 3 years compared with those aged 3 and more than 3 years. The mean angular bias, radial limits of agreement, and angular concordance rate in the polar analysis were not clinically acceptable in the changes between arterial pressure waveform-based parameters and volume-based PVI (PPV vs. PVI: angular mean bias 8.4°, angular concordance rate 29.9%; SVV vs. PVI: angular mean bias 2.4°, angular concordance rate 29.1%). There was a high concordance between the two arterial pressure waveform-based parameters reflected by the polar plot (angular mean bias -0.22°, angular concordance rate 86.6%).@*CONCLUSION@#PPV can be viewed as a surrogate for SVV, especially in children aged less than 3 years. The agreement between arterial pressure waveform-based preload parameters (PPV and SVV) and PVI is poor and these two should not be considered interchangeable. Attempt to combine PVI and PPV for improving the anesthesiologist's ability to monitor cardiac preload in major pediatric surgery is warranted.

Sensibilidad y especificidad de la presión de pulso ampliada como prueba diagnóstica de IRC estadio K/DOQI III-b / Sensitivity and specificity of increased pulse pressure as a diagnostic test for K/DOQI III-b

Resumen Introducción: La presión de pulso ampliada (PPA) se asocia a un filtrado glomerular calculado ≤ 60/mL/minuto/1.73 m2, por lo que puede ser útil como prueba diagnóstica para identificar a personas con insuficiencia renal crónica (IRC) estadio K/DOQI III-b. Objetivo: Determinar la utilidad de la PPA como prueba diagnóstica de IRC estadio K/DOQI III-b. Método: Estudio de prueba diagnóstica que incluyó a pacientes adultos sin comorbilidades, registrados en la Cohorte de Trabajadores de la Salud. Se utilizó la fórmula CKD-EPI para calcular la filtración glomerular. Se determinó la presión de pulso restando la presión arterial diastólica a la presión arterial sistólica. Se calculó sensibilidad, especificidad, valor predictivo positivo, valor predictivo negativo y prevalencia. Se elaboró una curva ROC para determinar el área bajo la curva. Resultados: Se incluyeron 6215 pacientes. Se observó que una PPA ≥ 50 mm Hg tuvo sensibilidad de 74 %, especificidad de 70 %, valor predictivo positivo de 1 %, valor predictivo negativo de 100 % y prevalencia de 1 %. El punto de inflexión en la curva ROC para identificar IRC K/DOQI III-b fue de 0.71. Conclusión: La PPA ≥ 50 mm Hg es útil como prueba diagnóstica para identificar a personas con IRC estadio K/DOQI III-b.

Abstract Introduction: Increased pulse pressure (IPP) is associated an estimated glomerular filtration ≤ 60/mL/min/1.73 m2; thus, it can be useful as a diagnostic test to identify people with K/DOQI stage III-b chronic kidney disease (CKD). Objective: To determine the usefulness of IPP as a diagnostic test for K/DOQI stage III-b CKD. Method: Diagnostic test study that included adult patients without comorbidities, registered in the Health Workers Cohort. The CKD-EPI formula was used to calculate glomerular filtration. Pulse pressure was determined by subtracting diastolic from systolic blood pressure. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and prevalence were calculated using standard formulas. A ROC curve was generated to determine the area under the curve. Results: A total of 6,215 patients were included. An IPP ≥ 50 mmHg was observed to have a sensitivity of 74 %, specificity of 70 %, positive predictive value of 1 %, negative predictive value of 100 % and a prevalence of 1 %. The inflection point in the ROC curve to identify K/DOQI III-b CKD was 0.71. Conclusion: An IPP ≥ 50 mmHg is useful as a diagnostic test to identify people with K/DOQI stage III-b CKD.

O comportamento da pressão arterial após elevação da pressão parcial positiva final pode auxiliar na determinação do status de fluido-responsividade em pacientes com choque séptico? / Can the behavior of blood pressure after elevation of the positive end-expiratory pressure help to determine the fluid responsiveness status in patients with septic shock?

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar se a diminuição da pressão arterial provocada pela elevação da pressão parcial positiva final corresponde à variação da pressão de pulso como indicador de fluido-responsividade. Métodos: Estudo de caráter exploratório que incluiu prospectivamente 24 pacientes com choque séptico ventilados mecanicamente e submetidos a três etapas de elevação da pressão parcial positiva final: de 5 para 10cmH2O (nível da pressão parcial positiva final 1), de 10 para 15cmH2O (nível da pressão parcial positiva final 2) e de 15 para 20cmH2O (nível da pressão parcial positiva final 3). Alterações da pressão arterial sistólica, da pressão arterial média e da variação da pressão de pulso foram avaliadas durante as três manobras. Os pacientes foram classificados como responsivos (variação da pressão de pulso ≥ 12%) e não responsivos a volume (variação da pressão de pulso < 12%). Resultados: O melhor desempenho para identificar pacientes com variação da pressão de pulso ≥ 12% foi observado no nível da pressão parcial positiva final 2: variação de pressão arterial sistólica de -9% (área sob a curva de 0,73; IC95%: 0,49 - 0,79; p = 0,04), com sensibilidade de 63% e especificidade de 80%. A concordância foi baixa entre a variável de melhor desempenho (variação de pressão arterial sistólica) e a variação da pressão de pulso ≥ 12% (kappa = 0,42; IC95%: 0,19 - 0,56). A pressão arterial sistólica foi < 90mmHg no nível da pressão parcial positiva final 2 em 29,2% dos casos e em 41,6,3% no nível da pressão parcial positiva final 3. Conclusão: Variações da pressão arterial em resposta à elevação da pressão parcial positiva final não refletem de modo confiável o comportamento da variação da pressão de pulso para identificar o status da fluido-responsividade.

Abstract Objective: To evaluate whether the decrease in blood pressure caused by the increase in the positive end-expiratory pressure corresponds to the pulse pressure variation as an indicator of fluid responsiveness. Methods: This exploratory study prospectively included 24 patients with septic shock who were mechanically ventilated and subjected to three stages of elevation of the positive end-expiratory pressure: from 5 to 10cmH2O (positive end-expiratory pressure level 1), from 10 to 15cmH2O (positive end-expiratory pressure level 2), and from 15 to 20cmH2O (positive end-expiratory pressure level 3). Changes in systolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and pulse pressure variation were evaluated during the three maneuvers. The patients were classified as responsive (pulse pressure variation ≥ 12%) or unresponsive to volume replacement (pulse pressure variation < 12%). Results: The best performance at identifying patients with pulse pressure variation ≥ 12% was observed at the positive end-expiratory pressure level 2: -9% systolic blood pressure variation (area under the curve 0.73; 95%CI: 0.49 - 0.79; p = 0.04), with a sensitivity of 63% and specificity of 80%. Concordance was low between the variable with the best performance (variation in systolic blood pressure) and pulse pressure variation ≥ 12% (kappa = 0.42; 95%CI: 0.19 - 0.56). The systolic blood pressure was < 90mmHg at positive end-expiratory pressure level 2 in 29.2% of cases and at positive end-expiratory pressure level 3 in 41.63% of cases. Conclusion: Variations in blood pressure in response to the increase in positive end-expiratory pressure do not reliably reflect the behavior of the pulse pressure as a measure to identify the fluid responsiveness status.

Correlation between Hypothyroidism and Systemic Arterial Blood Pressure: A Case–Control Study

Background: Hypothyroidism has been known to be associated with changes in systemic arterial blood pressure. Diastolicblood pressure (DBP) is known to be elevated causing proportionate reduction in pulse pressure.Aim: The aim of the study is to find out the correlation between systolic blood pressure (SBP), DBP, pulse pressure (PP), andmean arterial pressure of hypothyroid patients and normal individuals.Materials and Methods: This case–control study was conducted in Government Rajaji Hospital attached to Madurai MedicalCollege, Madurai. Twenty-five hypothyroid subjects were enrolled for the study (study group) from the department of endocrinologyand metabolism. Twenty-five normal subjects who were age and sex matched with the study group were enrolled for the study(control group). Serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were estimated in all the subjects. Arterial blood pressure wasrecorded in all the subjects in the sitting posture and the results obtained. The results are tabulated and analyzed by applyingunpaired “t” test.Results and Conclusion: Among the blood pressure parameters, only PP showed a positive correlation between the studygroup and control group. SBP, DBP, and mean arterial blood pressure showed no significance.

Relation between central aortic pulse pressure and coronary artery disease: a coronary angiographic study in a tertiary care center

Background: Aortic pulse pressure is a significant marker of cardiovascular morbidity independently of mean blood pressure and pulse pressure of 60 mm Hg should be considered as the threshold at risk both in normotensives and hypertensives. Coronary perfusion is dependent on diastolic blood pressure and patients with CAD may be susceptible to the adverse effects of low diastolic blood pressure. This study conducted to examine the relation between central aortic pulse pressure and the prevalence and extent of CAD.Methods: A cross sectional, hospital-based study conducted in Sri Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research, Bengaluru, among patients undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography.Results: Risk factors like Diabetes, Hypertension, Dyslipidemia and smoking rates were significantly higher in patients with PP of >60 mmHg (p<0.01). In the first group, the ratio of having normal coronaries is higher 61.9% vs 38% and diseased coronaries was lower when compared to the other group 38% vs 98%. In patients with aortic pulse pressure >60 mmHg, 4 patients had left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease, 20 patients had single vessel disease, 11 patients had two vessel disease and 20 patients had triple vessel disease.Conclusions: In this study it was demonstrated aortic pulse pressure of more than 60 mm Hg is associated with significant CAD.

Correlation between Three Methods of Blood Pressure Measurement (Impedance Cardiography, Sphygmomanometry, and Invasive Methods)

Aims and Objectives: The aims of the study were to find out the correlation between three methods of blood pressure (BP) measurement with impedance cardiography (ICG) device, conventional non-invasive sphygmomanometer, and cath lab-based invasive arterial pressure (AP) study. Patients Materials and Methods: Patients who had definite indications for coronary angiography (CAG) or coronary intervention due to cardiac reasons were selected for the measurement of BP by three methods, namely, by transducer-based invasive central aortic pressure study, by ICG, and by conventional sphygmomanometry. One hundred patients of acute myocardial infarction having chest pain, ST elevation in two or more contiguous leads of electrocardiogram (ECG), biomarker positivity, and echocardiographic evidence of regional wall motion abnormality were selected. Transfemoral or radial access of the ascending aorta allowed the measurement of central aortic pressure during invasive procedure. CAG was done in the cath lab having “Siemens™ Axiom Artis Zee (floor)” equipment. The subjects who were unwilling to participate, who were moribund, critically ill subjects, and patients with concomitant heart failure, arrhythmia, and valvular lesions were excluded from the study. GE™ Vivid 7 Dimension machine was used for ECG-gated echo-Doppler studies. ICG-derived BP values (systolic BP [SBP], diastolic BP [DBP], mean AP [MAP], and pulse pressure) were recorded for comparison with similar pressure data obtained from two other methods. Results and Analysis: Analysis of results show a comparison of data on SBP, DBP, and MAP measured by three methods by sphygmomanometry, invasive, and ICG methods. The analysis also shows the values of correlation coefficients – all of which are significantly positive correlations. ICG has been found to have positive correlation with both sphygmomanometric and invasive methods of BP measurement. It also shows a graphical presentation of the correlation between SBP, DBP, and MAP measured by three methods by sphygmomanometry, invasive, and ICG methods. Conclusion: There is a significant correlation between three methods of BP measurement with ICG device, conventional noninvasive sphygmomanometer-based method, and cath lab-based invasive AP study

Correlation analysis between pulse pressure index, body mass index, and cerebral hemodynamics in 12 375 individuals undergoing physical examination in Urumqi / 中华健康管理学杂志

Objective@#This study aimed to explore and analyze the correlation between pulse pressure index (PPI), body mass index (BMI), and cerebral hemodynamics and evaluate their significance in early screening for stroke.@*Methods@#The subjects were selected from those who had completed the cerebral blood flow function test in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from January to December 2018. First, basic information and disease history of the respondents were obtained through on-site questionnaire survey. Height, weight, and blood pressure were measured, and BMI, pulse pressure, PPI, and mean arterial pressure were calculated. Meanwhile, cerebral hemodynamic monitoring was completed. Individuals with cerebral hemodynamic indexes ≥75 were classified as normal cerebrovascular function group and those with cerebral hemodynamic indexes <75 as abnormal group. This study divided the PPI into three subgroups: high, medium, and low. According to the Chinese Adult Overweight and Obesity Prevention and Control Guidelines, the BMI was divided into too low, normal, overweight, and obese. The correlations of PPI and BMI with cerebral hemodynamics in different groups were calculated and compared.@*Results@#A total of 12 375 subjects, aged (52.6±7.3) years, were included in the study, consisting of 7 275 men (58.79%) and 5 100 women (41.21%). There were 9 900 patients (80.00%) in the normal group and 2 475 patients (20.00%) in the abnormal group. The abnormal rate of cerebral hemodynamics was higher in the Han nationality； those with a history of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. Moreover, those with abnormal cerebral hemodynamic indicators had a higher BMI, systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, pulse pressure and PPI, mean arterial pressure was higher than the normal group (all P<0.001). In different PPI groups, the average blood flow, average velocity, maximum velocity, minimum velocity, and critical pressure level of the left and right sides showed a downward trend with the increase in PPI. Peripheral resistance, pulse wave velocity, characteristic impedance, dynamic resistance, and difference between diastolic and critical pressure all showed an upward trend with the increase in PPI. In different BMI groups, the average blood flow in the obese group on the left side was lower than that in the underweight, normal, and super recombination groups. The average blood flow in the obese group on the right side was lower than that in the normal and super recombination groups and higher than that in the subhypoxia group. The mean, maximum, and minimum velocities of the left and right sides decreased with the increase in BMI. The differences in peripheral resistance, pulse wave velocity, characteristic impedance, dynamic resistance, critical pressure level, diastolic blood pressure, and critical pressure showed an increasing trend with the increase in BMI, and the differences of the above indicators were statistically significant (all P <0.001).The results of unconditional multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that Han nationality, history of hypertension, history of diabetes, PPI, and BMI were the main risk factors for abnormal cerebral hemodynamics. The higher the PPI and BMI, the higher the risk of abnormal cerebral blood flow.@*Conclusion@#The higher the PPI and BMI, the higher the possibility of abnormal cerebral hemodynamic indexes. Extremely high PPI and BMI should be paid greater attention.

Plethysmographic variability index as a tool to assess fluid responsiveness in critically ill patients: a correlation study with inferior vena cava distensibility index

Background: In critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU), early aggressive fluid replacement is the cornerstone of resuscitation. Traditionally employed static measures of fluid responsiveness have a poor predictive value. It is therefore imperative to employ dynamic measures of fluid responsiveness that take into account the heart lung interactions in the mechanically ventilated patients. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the reliability of one such non-invasive dynamic index: Plethysmographic variability index (PVI) compared to the widely employed Inferior vena cava distensibility index (dIVC).Methods: Seventy-six adult patients admitted at a tertiary care mixed ICU, who developed hypotension (MAP<65mmHg), were included in the study. PVI was recorded using the MASIMO-7 monitor and dIVC measurements done using Terason ultrasound. Based on the dIVC measurement threshold of 18%, the patients were classified into volume responders and non-responders. The hemodynamic, PVI and dIVC measurements were recorded at pre specified time points following a fluid challenge of 20 ml/kg crystalloid infusion.Results: Baseline PVI values were significantly higher in the responders (22.3±8.2) compared to non-responders (10.1±2.9) (p<0.001) and showed a declining trend at all time points in the responders. Similar declining trend was observed in the dIVC measurements. Overall, the Pearson correlation graph showed strong correlation between dIVC and PVI values at all time points (r=0.678, p=0.001). The ROC curve between the dIVC and PVI values revealed that Baseline PVI (Pre PVI) >15.5% discriminated between responders and non-responders with a 90.2% sensitivity and 75% specificity with an AUC of 0.84 (0.72-0.96) (p<0.001).Conclusions: There is good correlation between PVI values and measured dIVC values at baseline and following a fluid challenge. Thus, PVI may be an acceptable, real time, continuous, surrogate measure of fluid responsiveness in critically ill patients.

Gradiente de presión de pulso posterior y previo a la maniobra de Valsalva como marcador de disfunción sistólica del ventrículo izquierdo / Post- and pre-Valsalva pulse pressure gradient as a marker of left ventricle systolic dysfunction

Resumen: ANTECEDENTES: La insuficiencia cardiaca afecta a 26 millones de personas en todo el mundo. Al evaluar la variación de las cifras de presión arterial y frecuencia cardiaca tras la realización de la maniobra de Valsalva se ha encontrado correlación entre la función ventricular izquierda y el péptido auricular natriurético. OBJETIVO: Determinar si el gradiente de presión de pulso posterior y previo a la maniobra de Valsalva es útil como marcador de disfunción sistólica del ventrículo izquierdo. MATERIAL Y MÉTODO: Estudio de cohorte realizado del 1 de enero al 30 de junio de 2017, en el que se determinó la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo, propéptido natriurético cerebral, así como la sustracción de presión de pulso posterior y previo a la maniobra de Valsalva, esta variable se determinó como gradiente de presión de pulso pos y pre-Valsalva. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 32 pacientes. Una cifra de gradiente menor de 4.22 tuvo correlación negativa con la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo menor de 50%, con coeficiente de correlación de -0.562 y valor p de 0.001, además de tener un área bajo la curva de 0.71. CONCLUSIONES: El gradiente y la fracción de eyección tuvieron correlación negativa, ésta en el área indeterminada de la función sistólica. Una FEVI menor de 50% implica riesgo de descompensación y de FEVI deprimida.

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Heart failure affects to 26 million people worldwide. The variation of the blood pressure and heart rate values after performing the Valsalva maneuver has been evaluated, finding a correlation between left ventricular function and natriuretic atrial peptide. OBJECTIVE: To determine if post- and pre-Valsalva pulse pressure gradient is useful as marker of left ventricle systolic dysfunction. MATERIAL AND METHOD: A cohort study was done from January 1st to June 30, 2017, determining left ventricular ejection fraction, cerebral natriuretic peptide, as well as the subtraction of post-Valsalva and pre-Valsalva pulse pressure, this variable was determined as pulse pressure gradient. RESULTS: There were included 32 patients. A gradient figure of less than 4.22 had a negative correlation with a left ventricular ejection fraction lesser than 50%, with a correlation coefficient of -0.562 and a p value of 0.001, in addition to having an area under the curve of 0.71. CONCLUSIONS: The gradient and the ejection fraction had a negative correlation, this in the indeterminate area of the systolic function. An LVEF lesser than 50% implies risk of decompensation and a depressed LVEF.

Evaluation of volume responsiveness by pulse pressure variability and inferior vena cava dispensability index at different tidal volumes by mechanical ventilation

This study investigated the effects of tidal volume (TV) on the diagnostic value of pulse pressure variation (PPV) and the inferior vena cava dispensability index (IVC-DI) for volume responsiveness during mechanical ventilation. In patients undergoing elective surgery with mechanical ventilation, different TVs of 6, 9, and 12 mL/kg were given for two min. The left ventricular outflow tract velocity-time integral (VTI) was measured by transthoracic echocardiography. The IVC-DI was measured at sub-xyphoid transabdominal long axis. The PPV was measured via the radial artery and served as baseline. Index measurements were repeated after fluid challenge. VTI increased by more than 15% after fluid challenge, which was considered as volume responsive. Seventy-nine patients were enrolled, 38 of whom were considered positive volume responsive. Baseline data between the response group and the non-response group were similar. Receiver operating characteristic curve confirmed PPV accuracy in diagnosing an increase in volume responsiveness with increased TV. When TV was 12 mL/kg, the PPV area under the curve (AUC) was 0.93 and the threshold value was 15.5%. IVC-DI had the highest diagnostic accuracy at a TV of 9 mL/kg and an AUC of 0.79, with a threshold value of 15.3%. When TV increased to 12 mL/kg, the IVC-DI value decreased. When the TV was 9 and 12 mL/kg, PPV showed improved performance in diagnosing volume responsiveness than did IVC-DI. PPV diagnostic accuracy in mechanically ventilated patients was higher than IVC-DI. PPV accuracy in predicting volume responsiveness was increased by increasing TV.

Enhanced recovery after surgery in liver resection: current concepts and controversies / 대한마취과학회지

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) attenuates the stress response to surgery in the perioperative period and hastens recovery. Liver resection is a complex surgical procedure where the enhanced recovery program has been shown to be safe and effective in terms of postoperative outcomes. ERAS programs have been shown to be associated with lower morbidity, shortened postoperative stay, and reduced cost with no difference in mortality and readmission rates. However, there are challenges that are unique to hepatic resection such as safety after epidural catheterization and postoperative coagulopathy, intraoperative fluids and postoperative organ dysfunction, need for low central venous pressure to reduce blood loss, and non-lactate containing intravenous fluids. This narrative review briefly discusses these concerns and controversies and suggests revisiting some of the strong recommendations made by the ERAS society in light of the recent evidence.

Comportamiento de la rigidez arterial en diferentes condiciones clínicas utilizando el método oscilométrico / Behavior of arterial stiffness in different clinical conditions using the oscillometric method

Resumen El estudio de la rigidez arterial, en los últimos años ha sido de gran interés en la comunidad científica, siendo un indicador importante de riesgo cardiovascular y de mortalidad, además es un predictor de progresión para ciertas enfermedades crónicas. Con el fin de comprender la interpretación de la medición de la rigidez vascular, se describen 12 casos de pacientes con diferentes condiciones fisiopatológicas, que reflejan la práctica clínica diaria, en los que se evaluó la rigidez arterial mediante un método oscilométrico (Arteriograph®, TensioMed, Budapest-Hungría, Ltd.), calculando la velocidad de onda de pulso, presiones arteriales periféricas y centrales, presión de pulso, e índices de aumentación. La medición e interpretación adecuada de esta información puede ayudar a entender y resolver dudas frente a diferentes condiciones fisiopatológicas asociadas a las enfermedades cardiovasculares, mejorando la toma de decisiones terapéuticas, el seguimiento de pacientes y optimizar la prevención cardiovascular.

Abstract The study of arterial stiffness has been in recent years of great interest in the scientific community, being an important indicator of cardiovascular risk and mortality, in addition to being a predictor of progression for certain chronic diseases. In order to understand the interpretation of the measurement of vascular rigidity, 12 cases of patients with different physiopathological conditions are described, thus reflecting the daily clinical practice, in which the arterial stiffness was evaluated by means of an oscillometric method (Arteriograph®, TensioMed , Budapest-Hungary, Ltd.), calculating the pulse wave velocity, peripheral and central arterial pressures, pulse pressure, and augmentation indices. The adequate measurement and interpretation of this information can help to understand and resolve doubts in the face of different physiopathological conditions associated with cardiovascular diseases, improving therapeutic decision-making, following-up of patients and optimizing cardiovascular prevention.