Relação entre o índice de resistência vascular e o sucesso hemodinâmico de revascularizações distais dos membros inferiores / Vascular resistance index and the immediate hemodynamic success of lower limb distal artery revascularization

Resumo Contexto A cirurgia de revascularização é proposta para restaurar o fluxo sanguíneo para o pé nos casos de isquemia crítica (IC) devido a doença arterial obstrutiva periférica dos membros inferiores (MMII). O uso de ultrassonografia com Doppler (USD) vem despontando nos últimos anos como um método de grande valor para o planejamento cirúrgico dessa intervenção. Objetivos Avaliar a relação entre o índice de resistência (IR), mensurado por meio de USD, e o sucesso hemodinâmico imediato da cirurgia de revascularização dos MMII em pacientes com IC. Métodos O tipo de estudo empregado foi a coorte prospectiva, na qual foram avaliados 46 pacientes portadores de IC dos MMII submetidos à operação de revascularização infrainguinal por angioplastia ou em ponte de agosto de 2019 a fevereiro de 2022. Todos os pacientes foram submetidos à avaliação clínica vascular, à USD com medida do IR das artérias distais dos MMII, à arteriografia dos MMII e à aferição do índice tornozelo-braquial (ITB) no período pré-operatório. No pós-operatório imediato, todos os pacientes foram submetidos à nova aferição do ITB. Resultados Entre os 46 pacientes avaliados, 25 (54,3%) eram do sexo masculino. A idade variou de 32 a 89 anos (média de 67,83). Quanto ao sucesso hemodinâmico, avaliado pela comparação do ITB pré e pós-operatório, constatou-se que 31 (67,4%) pacientes apresentaram sucesso hemodinâmico após cirurgia de revascularização (aumento do ITB em 0,15 ou mais). Foi observada correlação positiva (p ≤ 0,05) entre o IR da artéria distal revascularizada do MMII e o sucesso hemodinâmico imediato avaliado pela aferição do ITB (IR menor e sucesso hemodinâmico). Conclusões Na presente pesquisa foi observada uma correlação positiva entre o índice de resistência arterial distal e o sucesso hemodinâmico nas revascularizações dos membros inferiores, avaliada através do índice tornozelobraquial, de forma que, quanto menor foi o IR, maior o sucesso hemodinâmico obtido.

Abstract Background Revascularization surgery is used to attempt to restore blood flow to the foot in patients with critical ischemia (CI) caused by peripheral arterial occlusive disease of the lower limbs (LL). Ultrasonography with Doppler (USD) SAH emerged in recent years as a highly valuable method for planning this surgical intervention. Objectives To evaluate the relationship between the resistance index (RI), measured with USD, and immediate hemodynamic success of LL revascularization surgery in patients with CI. Methods The study design was a prospective cohort assessing 46 patients with LL CLI who underwent operations to perform infrainguinal revascularization by angioplasty or bypass from August 2019 to February 2022. All patients underwent preoperative clinical vascular assessment with USD including measurement of the RI of distal LL arteries, LL arteriography, and measurement of the ankle-brachial index (ABI). All patients had their ABI measured again in the immediate postoperative period. Results Forty-six patients were assessed, 25 (54.3%) of whom were male. Age varied from 32 to 89 years (mean: 67.83). Hemodynamic success was assessed by comparison of preoperative and postoperative ABI, showing that hemodynamic success was achieved in 31 (67.4%) patients after revascularization surgery (ABI increased by 0.15 or more). A positive correlation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed between the RI of the distal revascularized LL artery and immediate hemodynamic success assessed by ABI (lower RI and hemodynamic success). Conclusions This study observed a positive correlation between the resistance index of the distal artery and immediate hemodynamic success of lower limb revascularizations, as assessed by the ankle-brachial index, so that the lower the RI the greater the hemodynamic success achieved.

Correlação entre o índice de resistência vascular e a arteriografia na avaliação do leito arterial distal na isquemia crítica dos membros inferiores / Correlation between the vascular resistance index and arteriography for assessment of the distal arterial bed in chronic limb threatening ischemia

Resumo Contexto Pacientes com isquemia crítica (IC) dos membros inferiores (MMII) precisam de arteriografia para o planejamento da cirurgia de revascularização. A ultrassonografia Doppler (UD) não é invasiva e, através da aferição do índice de resistência (IR), pode fornecer informações sobre as artérias distais. Objetivos Correlacionar a Classificação Angiográfica de Rutherford com o IR na avaliação do leito arterial distal dos MMII. Métodos Estudo transversal, realizado em hospital público terciário, com 120 pacientes portadores de IC dos MMII, entre setembro de 2019 a abril de 2022. Foi comparado o IR das artérias da perna passíveis de serem receptoras de revascularização com a imagem obtida através da arteriografia dessas artérias em acordo com a Classificação Angiográfica de leito distal de Rutherford. Resultados Foram avaliados 120 MMII em 120 pacientes com idade média de 68,6 anos. A amostra foi composta de 50,0% de pacientes do sexo masculino. Na amostra, 90,0% pacientes encontravam-se na classe cinco de Rutherford. Os valores do IR encontrados para as artérias de perna apresentaram uma correlação positiva, estatisticamente significativa, quando comparados com a Classificação de Rutherford (tibial anterior, p< 0,01; tibial posterior, p = 0,012 e fibular, p = 0,034 e artéria dorsal do pé, p < 0,001). Conclusões Neste estudo, os IRs das artérias da perna obtidos através da ultrassonografia Doppler apresentaram uma correlação positiva quando comparados à classificação de Rutherford. Em pacientes com isquemia crítica, esse índice pode ser útil na avaliação do leito arterial distal dos membros inferiores.

Abstract Background Patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI) of the lower limbs (LL) undergo arteriography for revascularization surgery planning. Doppler ultrasound (DU) is non-invasive and can provide information about the distal arteries through measurement of the resistance index (RI). Objectives To correlate the Rutherford Angiographic Classification with the RI for assessment of the distal arterial bed of the LL. Methods A cross-sectional study, conducted at a public tertiary hospital with 120 patients with LL CLTI, from September 2019 to April 2022. The RI of arteries that were candidates for revascularization was compared with the images of the same arteries obtained using arteriography, using the Rutherford Angiographic Classification of the distal bed. Results A total of 120 LL were assessed in 120 patients with a mean age of 68.6 years. The sample was 50.0% male and 90.0% of the patients in the sample were classified as Rutherford category five. The RI values found for the arteries of the leg exhibited a statistically significant positive correlation with the Rutherford Classification (anterior tibial, p< 0.01; posterior tibial, p = 0.012 fibular, p = 0.034; and dorsalis pedis, p < 0.001). Conclusions In this study, RIs for the arteries of the leg measured using Doppler ultrasound exhibited a positive correlation with the Rutherford Classification. This index could be useful for assessment of the distal arterial bed of the lower limbs of patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia.

Arterial hemodynamics and its correlation with retinal microarchitecture in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma / Hemodinâmica arterial e sua correlação com a microarquitetura retiniana no glaucoma pseudoesfoliativo

ABSTRACT Purpose: The study aimed to investigate the correlation between arterial hemodynamics measured by color Doppler ultrasonography and retinal microarchitecture parameters determined by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma. Methods: This prospective study included 82 participants. Peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer, ganglion cell inner plexiform layer, and ganglion cell complex values were measured. Ophthalmic artery and central retinal artery flows were evaluated with color Doppler ultrasonography, and resistivity index values were calculated. Results: The study included 47 controls and 35 pseudoexfoliation glaucoma cases. In pseudoexfoliation glaucoma group, mean peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell complex thickness were statistically significantly lower in all quadrants compared to controls (p<0.001). Resistivity index values of the ophthalmic and central retinal arteries were significantly higher in pseudoexfoliation glaucoma group than in the controls (p<0.001 and r=0.684). Resistivity index values of the ophthalmic and central retinal arteries with ganglion cell complex thickness correlated significantly. On the other hand, no significant relationship for retinal nerve fiber layer thickness was identified. Conclusions: Structural changes (ganglion cell complex and ganglion cell inner plexiform layer) in patients with pseudoexfoliation glaucoma and early glaucomatous loss showed a significant correlation with changes in ocular vascular hemodynamics. In cases where systemic vascular resistance is increased, ganglion cell complex and ganglion cell inner plexiform layer may not exactly reflect glaucoma state. In such cases, thickness changes in the retinal nerve fiber layer may give more realistic results regarding glaucoma. We have seen that pseudoexfoliation glaucoma-induced structural deterioration and increased resistance in ocular hemodynamics correlated with ganglion cell complex, but not retinal nerve fiber layer.

RESUMO Objetivo: Investigar a correlação entre a hemodi­nâmica arterial, medida pela ultrassonografia com Doppler colorido, e os parâmetros de microarquitetura da retina, determinados pela tomografia de coerência óptica de domínio espectral (SD-OCT) no glaucoma pseudoexfoliativo. Métodos: Foram incluídos 82 participantes neste estudo prospectivo. Foram medidos os valores da camada de fibras nervosas da retina peripapilar, da camada plexiforme interna de células ganglionares e do complexo de células ganglionares. Os fluxos da artéria oftálmica e da artéria central da retina foram avaliados com ultrassonografia por Doppler colorida e foram calculados os valores do índice de resistividade. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 47 casos de controle e 35 casos de glaucoma pseudoexfoliativo. No grupo com glaucoma pseudoexfoliativo, a média da camada de fibras nervosas da retina peripapilar e a espessura do complexo de células ganglionares foram menores em todos os quadrantes em comparação com os controles, com significância estatística (p<0,001). Os valores do índice de resistividade das artérias oftálmica e central da retina foram significativamente maiores no grupo com glaucoma pseudoexfoliativo que nos controles (p<0,001 e r=0,684). Ao se compararem os valores do índice de resistividade das artérias oftálmica e central da retina com a espessura do complexo de células ganglionares, foi encontrada uma correlação significativa entre elas. Por outro lado, não detectamos uma relação significativa para a espessura da camada de fibras nervosas da retina. Conclusões: Alterações estruturais (complexo de células ganglionares, camada plexiforme interna de células ganglionares) em pacientes com glaucoma pseudoexfoliativo com perda glaucomatosa precoce mostraram uma correlação significativa com alterações na hemodinâmica vascular ocular. Nos casos em que a resistência vascular sistêmica é aumentada, o complexo de células ganglionares e a camada plexiforme interna de células ganglionares podem não refletir exatamente o estado do glaucoma. Nesses casos, alterações na espessura da camada de fibras nervosas da retina podem dar resultados mais realistas em relação ao glaucoma. Observou-se uma correlação da deterioração estrutural induzida pelo glaucoma pseudoexfoliativo e do aumento da resistência na hemodinâmica ocular com o complexo de células ganglionares, mas não com a camada de fibras nervosas da retina.

Reverse Potts for the Treatment of Severe Idiopathic Pulmonary Hypertension in Children

ABSTRACT Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension is a rare and progressive disease with poor prognosis. Many patients progressively worsen even when using combinations of specific drugs for its treatment. Herein, we present our experience in the management of three children with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension refractory to clinical treatment who underwent Potts surgery in addition to clinical treatment.

Enhanced MR features of central chronic pulmonary artery thromboembolism and the clinical application value / 中华放射学杂志

Objective:To explore the relationship between the imaging features of enhanced MRI in patients with central chronic pulmonary artery thromboembolism (CPTE) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR).Methods:Thirty-nine patients with CPTE who had contrast-enhanced MRI examination were retrospectively enrolled this study from January 2018 to December 2020. And 33 patients who received right heart catheterization were divided into two groups based on PVR=1 000 dyn·s·cm -5. The differences of imaging features of CPTE in enhanced MRI between the two groups were compared. The relationship between gender, duration of disease, age, pleural thickening, bilateral bronchial artery dilation, number of the involved vascular segments, number of thrombosis, number of the thrombus-related delayed enhancement of artery wall and PVR was analyzed by binary logistic regression. Results:In 39 patients with central CPTE, the dilated lumen (168, 43.30%) and delayed enhancement of wall (122, 31.52%) were found in most of pulmonary arteries. The rate of the lumen dilatation associated with thrombus was the highest among that of the lumen abnormality (66, 52.80%). There were more thrombi in PVR<1 000 dyn·s·cm -5 group than those in PVR≥1 000 dyn·s·cm -5 group (χ 2=9.55, P=0.002). There was no significant difference in the incidence of wall delayed enhancement associated the thrombus between the two groups (χ 2=0.90, P=0.344). The incidence of bilateral bronchial arterial dilatation in PVR<1 000 dyn·s·cm -5 group was higher than that in PVR≥1 000 dyn·s·cm -5 group ( P=0.019). Logistic regression analysis showed that female, the less number of involved vascular segments and bilateral bronchial artery dilation were correlated with the lower PVR. Conclusions:Enhanced MRI is helpful to accurately evaluate the lumen abnormality of pulmonary artery and wall remodeling in central CPTE, which is of great value for the assessment of patients′ conditions and treatment effect.

Clinical efficacy and safety of Treprostinil in the treatment of children with early decompensation after the Fontan procedure / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

Objective:To investigate the efficacy and safety of Treprostinil in the treatment of children with early decompensation after the Fontan procedure.Methods:A retrospectively analysis was performed on the clinical data of 16 children with early decompensation after the Fontan procedure treated with Treprostinil injection from December 2017 to June 2020 at Fuwai Central China Cardiovascular Hospital.A total of 16 patients were included, including 5 boys (31.2%) and 11 girls (68.8%). The age was (4.6 ±1.2) years, the weight was (16.0±2.1) kg.The changes of central venous pressure (CVP), heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SBP), central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO 2), lactic acid (Lac), oxygenation index and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) were recorded at the infusion of Treprostinil and 3 hours, 24 hours, 48 hours and 72 hours after the infusion.The short-term efficacy of Treprostinil was observed[mortality, mechanical ventilation time, and length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay]; paired t-test was used to analyze the above indexes at different time points.The adverse reactions during the administration were also recorded. Results:Of the 16 children, the median mechanical ventilation time was 9 (5, 22) h, and the median ICU stay time was 2 (1, 12)days.After 72 hours of drug administration, CVP, Lac, BNP and HR decreased: CVP decreased from(16±5) mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) to (11±2) mmHg ( P<0.001), Lac decreased from(6.8±3.2) mmol/L to (3.2±1.2) mmol/L ( P=0.002), BNP decreased from(980±223) ng/L to (250±120) ng/L( P<0.001), HR decreased from(150±20) times/min to (125±16) times/min( P=0.002); SBP, ScvO 2 and oxygenation index increased: SBP increased from(83±10) mmHg to (98±12) mmHg( P<0.001), ScvO 2 increased from 0.53±0.13 to 0.65±0.11 ( P=0.003), oxygenation index increased from (200±72) mmHg to (298±13) mmHg ( P<0.001), and the differences were statistically significant(all P< 0.05). One case died (6.3%), 2 cases (12.5%) had transient blood pressure drop and 1 case (6.3%) had nausea and vomiting.Besides, no other treatment-related complications were observed. Conclusions:As for children with early decompensation after the Fontan procedure, the intravenous application of Treprostinil can reduce pulmonary artery pressure rapidly, effectively improve circulatory status and oxygenation and ultimately improve the prognosis.

The cerebroplacental ratio: association with maternal hypertension and proteinuria

Abstract Objective: To evaluate the resistive indices (RIs) of the fetal umbilical and middle cerebral arteries, as well as to determine the cerebroplacental ratio (CPR), in fetuses of women with hypertension. Materials and Methods This was a comparative cross-sectional study involving 75 pregnant women with pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) and 75 apparently healthy pregnant women (control group), all of whom were submitted to Doppler ultrasound examination of the fetal middle cerebral and umbilical arteries between 20 and 40 weeks of gestation. The two groups were compared in terms of the RI of the middle cerebral and umbilical arteries, as well as the CPR. The level of statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: The mean age was 32.4 ± 4.6 years in the PIH group and 32.6 ± 4.6 years in the control group (p = 0.633). The mean umbilical artery RI was significantly higher in the PIH group than in the control group (0.67 ± 0.14 vs. 0.61 ± 0.08; p = 0.012), whereas the mean middle cerebral artery RI was significantly higher in the control group (0.80 ± 0.05 vs. 0.76 ± 0.08; p = 0.001). Among the women in the PIH group, the mean CPR was significantly lower for those with proteinuria than for those without (1.07 ± 0.26 vs. 1.27 ± 0.22; p = 0.001). Conclusion: Maternal hypertension during pregnancy appears to be associated with increased fetal umbilical artery RI and reduced fetal middle cerebral artery RI, as well as with a low CPR. In pregnant women, the combination of PIH and proteinuria is also apparently associated with an increased risk of a low CPR.

Resultados Clínicos e Hemodinâmicos de Longo Prazo após o Transplante de Coração em Pacientes Pré-Tratados com Sildenafil / Long-Term Clinical and Hemodynamic Outcomes after Heart Transplantation in Patients Pre-Treated with Sildenafil

Resumo Fundamento A resistência vascular pulmonar elevada ainda é um grande problema na seleção de candidatos ao transplante cardíaco. Objetivo Nosso objetivo foi avaliar o efeito da administração de sildenafila pré-transplante cardíaco em pacientes com hipertensão pulmonar fixa. Métodos O estudo retrospectivo, de centro único, incluiu 300 candidatos a transplante cardíaco consecutivos tratados entre 2003 e 2013. Destes, 95 pacientes tinham hipertensão pulmonar fixa e, dentre eles, 30 pacientes foram tratados com sildenafila e acabaram passando pelo transplante, formando o Grupo A. O Grupo B incluiu 205 pacientes sem hipertensão pulmonar que passaram pelo transplante cardíaco. A hemodinâmica pulmonar foi avaliada antes do transplante, 1 semana e 1 ano após o transplante. A taxa de sobrevivência foi comparada entre os grupos. Neste estudo, um P valor < 0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados Após o tratamento com sildenafila, mas antes do TxC, a RVP (-39%) e a PAPs (-10%) diminuíram significativamente. A PAPs diminuiu após o TxC em ambos os grupos, mas permaneceu significativamente alta no grupo A em relação ao grupo B (40,3 ± 8,0 mmHg versus 36,5 ± 11,5 mmHg, P=0,022). Um ano após o TxC, a PAPs era 32,4 ± 6,3 mmHg no Grupo A versus 30,5 ± 8,2 mmHg no Grupo B (P=0,274). O índice de sobrevivência após o TxC 30 dias (97% no grupo A versus 96% no grupo B), 6 meses (87% versus 93%) e um ano (80% versus 91%) após o TxC não foi estatisticamente significativo (Log-rank P=0,063). Depois do primeiro ano, o índice de mortalidade era similar entre os dois grupos (sobrevivência condicional após 1 ano, Log-rank p=0,321). Conclusão Nos pacientes com HP pré-tratados com sildenafila, a hemodinâmica pós-operatória inicial e o prognóstico são numericamente piores em pacientes sem HP, mas depois de 1 ano, a mortalidade em médio e longo prazo são semelhantes. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(2):219-226)

Abstract Background Elevated pulmonary vascular resistance remains a major problem for heart transplant (HT) candidate selection. Objective This study sought at assess the effect of pre-HT sildenafil administration in patients with fixed pulmonary hypertension. Methods This retrospective, single-center study included 300 consecutive, HT candidates treated between 2003 and 2013, in which 95 patients had fixed PH, and of these, 30 patients were treated with sildenafil and eventually received a transplant, forming Group A. Group B included 205 patients without PH who underwent HT. Pulmonary hemodynamics were evaluated before HT, as well as 1 week after and 1 year after HT. Survival was compared between the groups. In this study, a p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results After treatment with sildenafil but before HT, PVR (-39%) and sPAP (-10%) decreased significantly. sPAP decreased after HT in both groups, but it remained significantly higher in group A vs. group B (40.3 ± 8.0 mmHg vs 36.5 ± 11.5 mmHg, p=0.022). One year after HT, sPAP was 32.4 ± 6.3 mmHg in group A vs 30.5 ± 8.2 mmHg in group B (p=0.274). The survival rate after HT at 30 days (97% in group A versus 96% in group B), at 6 months (87% versus 93%) and at one year (80% vs 91%) were not statistically significant (Log-rank p=0.063). After this first year, the attrition rate was similar among both groups (conditional survival after 1 year, Log-rank p=0.321). Conclusion In patients with severe PH pre-treated with sildenafil, early post-operative hemodynamics and prognosis are numerically worse than in patients without PH, but after 1 year, the medium to long-term mortality proved to be similar. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2021; 116(2):219-226)

Hemodynamics and cardiac autonomic modulation after an acute concurrent exercise circuit in older individuals with pre- to established hypertension

OBJECTIVES: Few studies have investigated whether post-exercise hypotension (PEH) after concurrent exercise (CEX) is related to changes in cardiac output (Q) and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) in older individuals. We tested whether PEH after a single bout of CEX circuits performed in open-access facilities at the Third Age Academies (TAA) in Rio de Janeiro City (Brazil) would be concomitant with decreased Q and SVR in individuals aged ≥60 years with prehypertension. Moreover, we assessed autonomic modulation as a potential mechanism underlying PEH. METHODS: Fourteen individuals (age, 65.8±0.9 y; systolic/diastolic blood pressure [SBP/DBP], 132.4±12.1/72.8±10.8 mmHg; with half of the patients taking antihypertensive medications) had their blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), Q, SVR, HR variability (HRV), and spontaneous baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) recorded before and 50 min after CEX (40-min circuit, including seven stations of alternate aerobic/resistance exercises at 60-70% HR reserve) and non-exercise control (CONT) sessions. The study protocol was registered in a World Health Organization-accredited office (Trial registration RBR-7BWVPJ). RESULTS: SBP (Δ=−14.2±13.1 mmHg, p=0.0001), DBP (Δ=−5.2±8.2 mmHg, p= 0.04), Q (Δ=−2.2±1.5 L/min, p=0.0001), and BRS (Δ=−3.5±2.6 ms/mmHg; p=0.05) decreased after CEX as compared with the CONT session. By contrast, the HR increased (Δ=9.4±7.2 bpm, p<0.0001), and SVR remained stable throughout the postexercise period as compared with the CONT session (Δ=0.10±0.22 AU, p=0.14). We found no significant difference between the CEX and CONT with respect to the HRV indexes reflecting autonomic modulation. CONCLUSION: CEX induced PEH in the older individuals with prehypertension status. At least in the first 50 min, PEH occurred parallel to the decreased Q and increased HR, while SVR was not different. The changes in autonomic outflow appeared to be unrelated to the acute cardiac and hemodynamic responses.

Discussion on heart transplantation indications in patients with end-stage heart failure complicated with reversible pulmonary artery hypertension / 器官移植

Heart transplantation can save the life and improve the quality of life of patients with end-stage heart failure. Nevertheless, it is not suitable for all patients with end-stage heart failure. As a common complication of end-stage heart failure, pulmonary artery hypertension may increase the incidence of right heart failure after heart transplantation, which is associated with the short- and long-term fatality risk in the recipients after heart transplantation. In clinical practice, different transplant centers have different criteria for heart transplantation indications in patients with end-stage heart failure complicated with pulmonary artery hypertension. Accurate preoperative evaluation of surgical indications plays a critical role in determining the success of heart transplantation. In this article, the definition, pathogenesis and effects on heart transplantation, diagnostic methods and reversibility judgment of pulmonary artery hypertension, diagnostic treatment of reversible pulmonary artery hypertension and indications of heart transplantation in patients with end-stage heart failure complicated with reversible pulmonary hypertension were reviewed.

​A Comparative Study of Changes in Left Ventricular Function after Mitral Valve Replacement in Patients with Severe Rheumatic Mitral Regurgitation with and without Mild Mitral Stenosis

Introduction: Presently off- pump CABG has proved itself tobe a safe, cheaper and effective alternative of on- pump CABG.However, it requires manipulation, displacement, positioning& mechanical stabilization of the heart during grafting whichmay cause haemodynamic alteration. Study was done withthe objective of finding out the changes in Central VenousPressure (CVP); Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP); MeanPulmonary Arterial Pressure (MPAP); Right Ventricular EndDiastolic Pressure (RVEDP) & Left Ventricular End DiastolicPressure (LVEDP) while grafting the anterior, lateral &inferior surfaces of heart during off-pump CABG.Material and methods: Over one year time, 50 patients withLVEF ≥40%, undergoing off-pump CABG were monitoredfor the above parameters at various stages of their operation,namely:- 1. During manipulation & shunt introduction,2.During anastomosis without shunt, 3.During anastomosiswith shunt & 4.After anastomosis; while grafting the anterior,lateral & inferior surfaces of heart. These results werecompared with the baseline values of CVP, MAP, MPAP,RVEDP & LVEDP, to look for statistical significance.Results: During manipulation & shunt introduction; CVP(mmHg) significantly increased during Ramus grafting - 12±1.8(p<0.047); and also during OM grafting – 12.6±1.9 (p<0.045),when compared to a baseline value of 9±1.8. The MAP(mmHg) was significantly decreased during manipulation &shunt introduction in Diagonals - 70±5.8 (p<0.046), Ramus- 70±5.8 (p<0.048), OMs - 65±5.8 (p<0.028) & in the Rightterritory - 69±5.9 (p<0.032); as compared with baselineMAP of 76±11.7. During anastomosis without shunt also, theMAP(mmHg) significantly decreased while grafting LAD- 70±3.8 (p<0.048), Diagonals - 68±3.8 (p<0.039), OMs –71.8±4.8 (p<0.039) & Right sided arteries 70.8±4.6 (p<0.039),as compared with baseline MAP values. The MPAP(mmHg)was significantly increased – 18.3±3.7 (p<0.047) as comparedto the baseline value of 16±2.4 during manipulation & shuntintroduction in the OMs.Conclusion: During OPCABG there will be significantalterations in haemodynamics mostly due to mobilizationof the heart, which is necessary to visualise the targetvessels properly & stabilisation of the concerned areawith stabiliser. However, by observing the haemodynamicvariations constantly & by making necessary mechanical &pharmacological adjustments, unnecessary conversion to Onpump technique can be avoided.

Comparative Effects of Aqueous Leaf Extracts of Thymus schimperi and Moringa stenopetala on Regional Blood Flow Velocity and Vascular Resistance of Pre-eclampsia Rat Models

Background: Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a common hypertensive disorder of pregnancy with a prevalence rate of 3-5%. There is no modern drug which cures PE so far. On the other hand, plant medicines are claimed to cure this disease. Exploring potential plant medicines for their therapeutic Original Research Article and/or prophylactic uses in this disease, therefore has paramount importance. In Ethiopia, there is a strong claim that leavesof Moringastenopetalaand Thymus schimperihave anti-hypertension activities.Thus, the current study was supposed to prove the potential therapeutic effects of the two plants against PE.PEreducesorgan blood flow and increasesvascular resistance. Assessing these variables has widely been accepted when monitoring high-risk pregnancies and evaluating therapeutic and/or prophylactic uses of drugs.Methods: A comparative experimental case control study was employed to determine the effects of aqueous crude extracts of Thymus schimperiand Moringastenopetalaon regional blood flow velocities and vascular resistance of PE Albino-Wistar rat models induced by a potent vasoconstrictor, nitro-arginine methyl ester(L-NAME). A Doppler flow meter (Atys, Directive 93/42/EEC/CEE, Model, BASIC123LP) was used to measure the systolic and diastolic regional blood flow velocities through abdominal aorta, uterine, renal and common carotid arteries. The peripheral vascular resistance for the respective vessels were evaluated using resistivity and pulsatility indices.Results: Aqueous leaf extracts of T. schimperi(ALETS) and M. stenopetala(ALEMS) significantly increased regional blood flow velocities and decreased peripheral vascular resistance in PE rat modelsin a dose dependent pattern compared with untreated controls. For example, ALETS treated PE groups showed increased diastolicblood velocity (DBV) (cm/sec) of uterine arteries 3.8±0.4 (p<0.05), 4.2±0.4 (p<0.01), 7.3±0.5 (p<0.01), while ALEMS treated PE group had uterine arterial DBV of 2.8±0.3 (p<0.01), 3.5±0.8 (p<0.05), 6.6±0.8 (p<0.01) with daily doses of 250mg/kg, 500mg/kg and 1gm/kg, respectively. Moreover, the vascular resistances (measured by resistivity and pulsatility indices), of the respective vessels were significantly lower in a dose dependent pattern. Conclusion:Both ALETS and ALEMS could increaseregional blood flow velocities and decrease vascular resistances ofPE rat models. Further investigation should, however, be carried out to confirm their therapeutic merits.

Study of Prevalence of Pulmonary Artery Hypertension in Portal Hypertensives Patients in RIMS, Ranchi

Background: The development of pulmonary hypertension i.e.mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) above 25 mmHg withnormal capillary wedge pressure and pulmonary vascularresistance(PVR) above 240 dyn/s/cm−5 in association withelevated pressure in portal circulation is known asportopulmonary hypertension (POPH). Comparing withidiopathic PAH, patients with POPH have a worst survivalprofile, with a 3-year survival of only 38% versus78% foridiopathic PAH. Recent evidence from France shows thatPOPH is the fourth most common form of PAH reported overallin the population-based French National Registry, afteridiopathic PAH and PAH associated with connective tissuediseases and con- genital heart disease. The aim of this studyis to evaluate frequency of POPH in portal hypertensivepatient.Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study of patientadmitted in RIMS, medicine department was performedfulfilling features of portal hypertension with ultrasoundshowing splenomegaly, ascites, portal vein diameter more than13 mm, portal vein velocity less than 15 cm/s and uppergastrointestinal endoscopy showing esophageal varices andpatient with connective tissue disease, congenital heartdisease, left ventricular systolic or diastolic dysfunction,valvular heart disease, lungs disease, sleep related breathingdisorder, chronic hemolytic and myeloproliferative disorderwere excluded. All patient underwent screening withechocardiography for measuring pulmonary artery systolicpressure (PASP) and PASP more than 35 mmHg wereconsidered for POPH which was confirmed with right heartcatheterisation by measuring mean pulmonary artery pressure(mPAP) of more than 25 mmHg.Observation: Among forty-two patient in this study, there werethirty-three male patients and nine female patients. POPH wasseen three female and two male patients with total of five out offorty- two with prevalence of 11.9% out of which 7.1% werefemale and 4.8% were male.Conclusion: Portopulmonary hypertension prevalence is 2–6%. In this study pulmonary hypertension is significantly high inportal hypertensive patient with percentage of 11.9% and moreprevalent in female.

Cómo y cuándo realizar un cateterismo derecho: Su implicancia en el seguimiento de los pacientes

El cateterismo cardíaco derecho representa el principal estudio diagnóstico necesario para confirmar la presencia de hipertensión arterial pulmonar, entendida como enfermedad poco frecuente, discapacitante y de pronóstico variable. Su indicación principal tiene lugar ante todo paciente en el que exista una fuerte sospecha de hipertensión pulmonar, aunque sus usos se extienden más allá, siendo muy útil en la valoración de la respuesta al tratamiento y en el estudio de otras patologías como cardiopatías congénitas y pacientes sometidos a trasplante cardíaco. Para su realización requiere de una técnica sistemática y rigurosa, con el fin de obtener resultados confiables que puedan aplicarse a la práctica diaria. Su valor pronóstico es indiscutible, al aportar parámetros hemodinámicos determinantes para la estratificación de pacientes y la implementación de estrategias terapéuticas dirigidas en función del riesgo. Sin embargo, no está exento de complicaciones, algunas de ellas potencialmente mortales, aunque en términos generales resulta ser un procedimiento seguro con baja tasa de morbi-mortalidad en los principales centros donde se realiza.

Right heart catheterization represents the main diagnostic study necessary to confirm the presence of pulmonary arterial hypertension, understood as a rare, disabling disease with variable prognosis. Its main indication occurs before any patient in whom there is a strong suspicion of pulmonary hypertension, although its uses extend further, being very useful in the assessment of the response to treatment and in the study of other pathologies such as heart disease congenital and patients undergoing cardiac transplantation. To procedure it requires a systematic and rigorous technique, in order to obtain reliable results that can be applied to daily practice. Its prognostic value is indisputable, by providing precise hemodynamic parameters for the stratification of patients and the implementation of therapeutic strategies directed according to risk. However, it is not free of complications, some of them potentially fatal, although in general terms it turns out to be a safe procedure with a low rate of morbidity and mortality in the main centers where it is performed.

O cateterismo cardíaco direito representa o principal estudo diagnóstico necessário para confirmar a presença de hipertensão arterial pulmonar, entendida como uma doença rara e incapacitante com prognóstico variável. A sua principal indicação ocorre em todos os pacientes em que haja uma forte suspeita de hipertensão pulmonar, mas a sua utilização se estendem para além de ser muito útil na avaliação da resposta ao tratamento e o estudo de outras doenças tais como a doença cardíaca congênitos e pacientes submetidos a transplante cardíaco. Para realizá-lo, é necessária uma técnica sistemática e rigorosa, a fim de obter resultados confiáveis que possam ser aplicados na prática diária. Seu valor prognóstico é indiscutível, pois fornece parâmetros hemodinâmicos precisos para a estratificação dos pacientes e a implementação de estratégias terapêuticas direcionadas de acordo com o risco. Entretanto, não é isenta de complicações, algumas delas potencialmente fatais, embora em termos gerais se revele um procedimento seguro, com baixa taxa de morbidade e mortalidade nos principais centros onde é realizada.

Anxiety increases the blood pressure response during exercise

Aim: The hypothesis that higher levels of anxiety promote greater blood pressure (BP) responses during physical exercise is tested. The hypothesis that metaborreflex response is increased in an anxious individual is tested as well. Methods: There were 43 volunteers divided by anxiety level: 12 volunteers with mild, moderate and severe symptoms (anxious-group) and 31 volunteers with a minimum level of anxiety (control-group). Arterial BP, heart rate, and forearm blood flow were measured simultaneously during handgrip exercise and post-exercise ischemia, and forearm vascular resistance (FVR) was calculated. Results: Anxious group present higher systolic, diastolic and mean BP at rest when compared with control group (130±11 vs. 122±12 mmHg, p=0.048; 70±6 vs. 65±8 mmHg, p=0.033; 90±7 vs. 84±9 mmHg, p=0.033, respectively) and higher response of systolic, diastolic and mean BP and FVR during exercise when compared with control group (20±9 vs. 13±7 mmHg, p=0.009; 17±8 vs. 11±6 mmHg, p=0.006; 18±8 vs. 11±6 mmHg, p=0.005; and 0±13 vs. -7±9 units, p=0,003, respectively). During post-exercise ischemia, the anxious group also present higher response of diastolic BP, mean BP and FVR when compared with a control group (11±12 vs. 3±4 mmHg, p=0,001, 10±8 vs. 3±5 mmHg, p=0,002; 9±11 vs. -2± 8 units, p=0,03, respectively). Conclusion: Anxious individuals present higher BP responses during physical exercise when compared with those with minimal anxiety symptoms. This increased response may be explained, in part, by increased peripheral vascular resistance due to the greater metaborreflex response.(AU)

The application value of afterload-related cardiac performance in patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy / 中华急诊医学杂志

Objective@#To investigate the application value of afterload-related cardiac performance(ACP) in patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy.@*Methods@#A total of 148 patients with septic shock admitted by the department of critical care of Wuhan fourth hospital from April 2013 to March 2018 were retrospectively included, all included patients were divided into LVEF < 50% group and LVEF≥50% group according to left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), the mortality rate at 28 days and ACP value were compared in the 2 groups. All included patients were divided into normal group (ACP > 80%), mild heart function impairment group (60% < ACP≤80%), moderate heart function impairment group (40% < ACP≤60%), and severe heart function impairment group (ACP≤40%) according to ACP value, the mortality rate at 28 days was compared in the 4 groups. The measurement data were compared by grouped t test, the rates were compared by chi-square test.@*Results@#The mortality rate was 58.2% in the LVEF < 50% group, and 30.9% in the LVEF≥50% group, with statistically significant differences (χ2=11.171, P<0.01). The values of ACP in the LVEF < 50% group were (39.3±16.4) %, and those in the LVEF≥50% group were (69.1±14.9) %, with statistically significant differences (t=11.571, P<0.01).The mortality rate was 14.81% in the normal group, 44.00% in the mild, 58.82% in the moderate and 90.00% in the severe group. The differences between the normal group and the mild and moderate groups were statistically significant, while those between the severe group and the mild and moderate groups were statistically significant.@*Conclusion@#Afterload-related cardiac performance is of great value for the diagnosis and prognosis in patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy.

Interpretation:recommendations of the 6st World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension（Ⅱ）——haemodynamic definitions and updated clinical classification of pulmonary hypertension / 中国实用内科杂志

Pulmonary hypertension(PH)has been defined as mean pulmonary arterial pressure(mPAP）≥25 mmHg at rest,measured by right heart catheterisation. The 6 th WSPH suggested a new pressure level to define an abnormal elevation as the mPAP>20 mmHg and the need for PVR≥3 WU to define the presence of pre-capillary PH. Regarding clinical classification,the main changes were the inclusion in group 1 of a subgroup“pulmonary arterial hypertension(PAH)long-term responders to calcium channel blockers”and a subgroup“PAH with overt features of venous/capillaries involvement“.

Effect of butylphthalide combined with edaravone on cerebral hemodynamics, vascular endothelial function and cytokines in elderly patients with acute cerebral infarction / 中国基层医药

Objective@#To investigate the effects of butylphthalide combined with edaravone on cerebral hemodynamics, vascular endothelial function and cytokines in elderly patients with acute cerebral infarction.@*Methods@#From May 2017 to May 2018, 82 elderly patients with acute cerebral infarction admitted to the First People's Hospital of Wenling were selected and randomly divided into two groups according to the digital table, with 41 cases in each group.The patients in the control group were treated with edaravone, while the patients in the treatment group were treated with butylphthalide on the basis of the control group.The two groups were treated for 2 weeks.The neurological deficit scale (NIHSS), cerebral hemodynamics, vascular endothelial function and cytokines were compared between the two groups before and after treatment.@*Results@#The NIHSS score of the treatment group was (18.49±1.87)points, which was lower than (22.17±1.32)points of the control group at 2 weeks after treatment (t=10.294, P<0.05). The mean flow velocity [(31.70±3.25)cm/s], vascular resistance index (0.79±0.12) and maximum peak flow velocity [(54.21±2.65)cm/s] in the treatment group were higher than those in the control group [(26.91±4.39)cm/s, (0.61±0.05) and (43.76±3.10)cm/s] (t=5.615, 8.866, 16.407, all P<0.05). The contents of NO [(71.27±6.58)μmol/L] and eNOS [(66.37±3.65)U/mL] in the treatment group were higher than those in the control group [(62.30±2.71)μmol/L and (57.89±4.08)U/mL] (t=8.071, 9.919, all P<0.05). After 2 weeks of treatment, the contents of IL-6 [(27.36±2.71)pg/mL], CRP [(2.87±0.76)mg/L] and TNF- α[(98.24±10.48)ng/mL] in the treatment group were lower than those in the control group [(43.25±4.10)pg/mL, (4.59±0.91)mg/L and (160.27±15.42)ng/mL] (t=20.702, 9.289, 21.303, all P<0.05). The total effective rate of treatment group (90.24%) was higher than that of control group (68.29%) (χ2=6.011, P<0.05).@*Conclusion@#Butylphthalide combined with edaravone can improve cerebral hemodynamics, vascular endothelial function and alleviate cellular inflammatory reaction in elderly patients with acute cerebral infarction, and the curative effect is significant, which is worthy of clinical study.