Tempo de aceleração na via de saída do ventrículo direito: correlação com a função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo, sexo e idade / Right ventricular outflow tract acceleration time: correlation with left ventricular diastolic function, sex, and age

Fundamento: O tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar (TAP) pode ser utilizado para avaliação da hipertensão pulmonar na análise da função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo. Objetivo: Avaliar se existe correlação entre o valor do tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar e parâmetros da função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo em indivíduos com função sistólica do ventrículo esquerdo preservada e de acordo com sexo, idade e fatores de risco cardiovasculares. Métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal. Foram selecionados 119 pacientes (59 mulheres; 49,6%). Os indivíduos foram submetidos ao ecocardiograma transtorácico incluindo os valores de tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar; ondas E e A e relação E/A ao Doppler espectral do influxo mitral; ondas e' septal, e' lateral e relação E/e' ao Doppler tecidual do anel mitral; pressão sistólica na artéria pulmonar e volume atrial esquerdo. Resultados: No sexo feminino, foi encontrada correlação positiva (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman) entre o valor do tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar e e' lateral (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de 0,47; p=0,002), relação E/A (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de 0,32; p=0,04) e e' septal (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de 0,36; p=0,023) e uma correlação negativa entre o valor do tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar e pressão sistólica na artéria pulmonar (coeficiente de correlação de Spearman de -0,43; p=0,034). No sexo masculino, não foi encontrada correlação significativa. Foram encontrados menores valores de tempo de aceleração na artéria pulmonar em mulheres com hipertensão arterial sistêmica quando comparadas a mulheres sem hipertensão arterial sistêmica (0,13±0,03 segundos versus 0,16±0,03 segundos; p = 0,015). Conclusão: O presente estudo mostrou correlação significativa dos valores do TAP com alguns parâmetros da função diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo apenas no sexo feminino, sendo que mulheres hipertensas apresentaram menores valores de TAP. (AU)

Background: Pulmonary artery acceleration time (PAAT) can be used as a parameter in the evaluation of pulmonary hypertension and aids left ventricular diastolic function (LVDF) analyses. Objective: To assess whether there is a correlation between PAAT and LVDF parameters in individuals with a preserved left ventricular systolic function and by sex, age, and cardiovascular risk factors. Method: Observational cross-sectional study. One hundred nineteen patients were selected (59 women [49.6%]). The subjects underwent transthoracic echocardiography including measurements of PAAT, E and A waves and E/A ratio, e' septal and e' lateral waves and E/e' ratio, pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), and left atrial volume. Results: In female patients, a positive correlation (Spearman's correlation coefficient ­ Spearman correlation coefficient [SCC]) was found between the PAAT value and the lateral e' (SCC, 0.47; p = 0.002), with the E/A ratio (SCC, 0.32; p = 0.04), and with septal e' (SCC, 0.36; p = 0.023), and a negative correlation between PAAT and PASP (SCC, -0.43; p = 0.034). In men, no correlation was found between PAAT. and any parameters. Lower PAAT values were found in women with systemic arterial hypertension (hypertension) than in women without hypertension (0.13 ± 0.03 s versus 0.16 ± 0.03 s; p = 0.015). Conclusion: The present study showed a significant correlation between PAAT and some LVDF parameters in female patients only. Hypertension was correlated with lower PAAT values in women. (AU)

Transthoracic echocardiographic assessment of cardiac output in mechanically ventilated critically ill patients by intensive care unit physicians / Avaliação ecocardiográfica transtorácica do débito cardíaco feita por médicos da unidade de terapia intensiva em pacientes críticos sob ventilação mecânica

Abstract Background and objectives: Transthoracic echocardiography may potentially be useful to obtain a prompt, accurate and non-invasive estimation of cardiac output. We evaluated whether non-cardiologist intensivists may obtain accurate and reproducible cardiac output determination in hemodynamically unstable mechanically ventilated patients. Methods: We studied 25 hemodynamically unstable mechanically ventilated intensive care unit patients with a pulmonary artery catheter in place. Cardiac output was calculated using the pulsed Doppler transthoracic echocardiography technique applied to the left ventricular outflow tract in apical 5 chamber view by two intensive care unit physicians who had received a basic Transthoracic Echocardiography training plus a specific training focused on Doppler, left ventricular outflow tract and velocity-time integral determination. Results: Cardiac output assessment by transthoracic echocardiography was feasible in 20 out of 25 enrolled patients (80%) and showed an excellent inter-operator reproducibility (Pearson correlation test r = 0.987; Cohen's K = 0.840). Overall, the mean bias was 0.03 L.min-1, with limits of agreement -0.52 and +0.57 L.min-1. The concordance correlation coefficient (ρc) was 0.986 (95% IC 0.966-0.995) and 0.995 (95% IC 0.986-0.998) for physician 1 and 2, respectively. The value of accuracy (Cb) of COTTE measurement was 0.999 for both observers. The value of precision (ρ) of COTTE measurement was 0.986 and 0.995 for observer 1 and 2, respectively. Conclusions: A specific training focused on Doppler and VTI determination added to the standard basic transthoracic echocardiography training allowed non-cardiologist intensive care unit physicians to achieve a quick, reproducible and accurate snapshot cardiac output assessment in the majority of mechanically ventilated intensive care unit patients.

Resumo Justificativa e objetivos: A ecocardiografia transtorácica pode ser potencialmente útil para obter uma estimativa rápida, precisa e não invasiva do débito cardíaco. Avaliamos se os intensivistas não cardiologistas podem obter uma determinação precisa e reprodutível do débito cardíaco em pacientes mecanicamente ventilados e hemodinamicamente instáveis. Métodos: Avaliamos 25 pacientes em unidade de terapia intensiva, mecanicamente ventilados, hemodinamicamente instáveis, com cateteres de artéria pulmonar posicionados. O débito cardíaco foi calculado com a técnica de ecocardiografia transtorácica com Doppler pulsátil aplicada à via de saída do ventrículo esquerdo no corte apical (5-câmaras) por dois médicos intensivistas que receberam treinamento básico em ecocardiografia transtorácica e treinamento específico focado em Doppler, via de saída do ventrículo esquerdo e determinação da integral de tempo-velocidade. Resultados: A avaliação do débito cardíaco pelo ecocardiograma transtorácico foi factível em 20 dos 25 pacientes inscritos (80%) e mostrou excelente reprodutibilidade entre operadores (teste de correlação de Pearson r = 0,987; K de Cohen = 0,840). No geral, o viés médio foi de 0,03 L.min-1, com limites de concordância de -0,52 e +0,57 L.min-1. O coeficiente de correlação de concordância (ρc) foi 0,986 (95% IC 0,966-0,995) e 0,995 (95% IC 0,986-0,998) para os médicos 1 e 2, respectivamente. O valor de precisão (Cb) da mensuração de COTTE foi de 0,999 para ambos os observadores. O valor de precisão (ρ) da mensuração de COTTE foi de 0,986 e 0,995 para os observadores 1 e 2, respectivamente. Conclusões: Um treinamento específico focado na determinação do Doppler e VTI, adicionado ao treinamento padrão em ecocardiografia transtorácica básica, permitiu que médicos não cardiologistas da unidade de terapia intensiva obtivessem uma avaliação rápida, reprodutível e precisa do débito cardíaco instantâneo na maioria dos pacientes mecanicamente ventilados em unidade de terapia intensiva.

The effect of levothyroxine treatment on left ventricular function in subclinical hypothyroidism

ABSTRACT Objective: Treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism (ScH), especially the mild form of ScH, is controversial because thyroid hormones influence cardiac function. We investigate left ventricular systolic and diastolic function in ScH and evaluate the effect of 5-month levothyroxine treatment. Subjects and methods: Fifty-four patients with newly diagnosed mild ScH (4.2 <TSH < 10.0 mU/L) and 30 euthyroid subjects matched by age were analysed. Laboratory analyses and an echocardiography study were done at the first visit and after 5 months in euthyroid stage in patients with ScH. Results: Compared to healthy controls, patients with ScH had a lower E/A ratio (1.03 ± 0.29 vs. 1.26 ± 0.36, p < 0.01), higher E/e' sep. ratio (762 ± 2.29 vs. 6.04 ± 1.64, p < 0.01), higher myocardial performance index (MPI) (0.47 ± 0.08 vs. 0.43 ± 0.07, p < 0.05), lower global longitudinal strain (GLS) (-19.5 ± 2.3 vs. −20.9 ± 1.7%, p < 0.05), and lower S wave derived by tissue Doppler imaging (0.077 ± 0.013 vs. 0.092 ± 0.011 m/s, p < 0.01). Levothyroxine treatment in patients with ScH contributed to higher EF (62.9 ± 3.9 vs. 61.6 ± 4.4%, p < 0.05), lower E/e' sep. ratio (6.60 ± 2.06 vs. 762 ± 2.29, p < 0.01), lower MPI (0.43 ± 0.07 vs. 0.47 ± 0.08%, p < 0.01), and improved GLS (-20.07 ± 2.7 vs. −19.55 ± 2.3%, p < 0.05) compared to values in ScH patients at baseline. Furthermore, in all study populations (ScH patients before and after levothyroxine therapy and controls), TSH levels significantly negatively correlated with EF (r = −0.15, p < 0.05), E/A (r = −0.14, p < 0.05), GLS (r = −0.26, p < 0.001), and S/TDI (r = −0.22, p < 0.01) and positively correlated with E/e' sep. (r = 0.14, p < 0.05). Conclusion: Patients with subclinical hypothyroidism versus healthy individuals had subtle changes in certain parameters that indicate involvement of systolic and diastolic function of the left ventricle. Although the values of the parameters were in normal range, they were significantly different compared to ScH and the control group at baseline, as well as to the ScH groups before and after treatment.The results of our study suggest that patients with ScH must be followed up during treatment to assess improvement of the disease. Some of the echocardiography obtained parameters were reversible after levothyroxine therapy.

Natriuretic Peptide and Clinical Evaluation in the Diagnosis of Heart Failure Hemodynamic Profile: Comparison with Tissue Doppler Echocardiography / Peptídeo Natriurético e Avaliação Clínica no Diagnóstico do Perfil Hemodinâmico da Insuficiência Cardíaca: Comparação com Ecodopplercardiograma Tecidual

Abstract Background: Physical examination and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) have been used to estimate hemodynamics and tailor therapy of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) patients. However, correlation between these parameters and left ventricular filling pressures is controversial. Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of physical examination, chest radiography (CR) and BNP in estimating left atrial pressure (LAP) as assessed by tissue Doppler echocardiogram. Methods: Patients admitted with ADHF were prospectively assessed. Diagnostic characteristics of physical signs of heart failure, CR and BNP in predicting elevation (> 15 mm Hg) of LAP, alone or combined, were calculated. Spearman test was used to analyze the correlation between non-normal distribution variables. The level of significance was 5%. Results: Forty-three patients were included, with mean age of 69.9 ± 11.1years, left ventricular ejection fraction of 25 ± 8.0%, and BNP of 1057 ± 1024.21 pg/mL. Individually, all clinical, CR or BNP parameters had a poor performance in predicting LAP ≥ 15 mm Hg. A clinical score of congestion had the poorest performance [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) 0.53], followed by clinical score + CR (AUC 0.60), clinical score + CR + BNP > 400 pg/mL (AUC 0.62), and clinical score + CR + BNP > 1000 pg/mL (AUC 0.66). Conclusion: Physical examination, CR and BNP had a poor performance in predicting a LAP ≥ 15 mm Hg. Using these parameters alone or in combination may lead to inaccurate estimation of hemodynamics.

Resumo Fundamento: Exame físico e peptídeo natriurético do tipo B (BNP) foram usados para estimar a hemodinâmica e adequar a terapia de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca aguda descompensada (ICAD). Entretanto, correlação entre esses parâmetros e a pressão de enchimento do ventrículo esquerdo é controversa. Objetivo: Avaliar a acurácia diagnóstica do exame físico, da radiografia de tórax (RT) e do BNP para estimar a pressão atrial esquerda (PAE) avaliada pelo ecodopplercardiograma tecidual. Métodos: Pacientes admitidos com ICAD foram avaliados prospectivamente. As características diagnósticas dos sinais físicos de insuficiência cardíaca, RT e BNP para predizer elevação da PAE (> 15 mmHg), isolados ou combinados, foram calculadas. Teste de Spearman foi usado para analisar a correlação entre variáveis de distribuição não normal. O nível de significância foi 5%. Resultados: Este estudo incluiu 43 pacientes com idade média de 69,9 ± 11,1 anos, fração de ejeção ventricular esquerda de 25 ± 8.0%, e BNP de 1057 ± 1024,21 pg/mL. Individualmente, todos os parâmetros clínicos, RT e BNP apresentaram fraco desempenho para predizer PAE ≥ 15 mmHg. O escore clínico de congestão teve o pior desempenho [área sob a curva receiver operating characteristic (AUC) 0,53], seguindo-se escore clínico + RT (AUC 0,60), escore clínico + RT + BNP > 400 pg/mL (AUC 0,62) e escore clínico + RT + BNP > 1000 pg/mL (AUC 0,66). Conclusão: Exame físico, RT e BNP tiveram desempenho fraco para predizer PAE ≥15 mmHg. O uso desses parâmetros isoladamente ou em combinação pode levar a estimativa imprecisa do perfil hemodinâmico. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2018; 110(3):270-277)

Echocardiographic Assessment of Ventricular Function in Young Patients with Asthma / Avaliação Ecocardiográfica da Função Ventricular em Pacientes Jovens com Asma

Abstract Background: Despite significant advances in understanding the pathophysiology and management of asthma, some of systemic effects of asthma are still not well defined. Objectives: To compare heart function, baseline physical activity level, and functional exercise capacity in young patients with mild-to-moderate asthma and healthy controls. Methods: Eighteen healthy (12.67 ± 0.39 years) and 20 asthmatics (12.0 ± 0.38 years) patients were enrolled in the study. Echocardiography parameters were evaluated using conventional and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). Results: Although pulmonary acceleration time (PAT) and pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) were within normal limits, these parameters differed significantly between the control and asthmatic groups. PAT was lower (p < 0.0001) and PASP (p < 0.0002) was higher in the asthma group (114.3 ± 3.70 ms and 25.40 ± 0.54 mmHg) than the control group (135.30 ± 2.28 ms and 22.22 ± 0.40 mmHg). The asthmatic group had significantly lower early diastolic myocardial velocity (E', p = 0.0047) and lower E' to late (E'/A', p = 0.0017) (13.75 ± 0.53 cm/s and 1.70 ± 0.09, respectively) compared with control group (15.71 ± 0.34 cm/s and 2.12 ± 0.08, respectively) at tricuspid valve. In the lateral mitral valve tissue Doppler, the asthmatic group had lower E' compared with control group (p = 0.0466; 13.27 ± 0.43 cm/s and 14.32 ± 0.25 cm/s, respectively), but there was no statistic difference in the E'/A' ratio (p = 0.1161). Right isovolumetric relaxation time was higher (p = 0.0007) in asthmatic (57.15 ± 0.97 ms) than the control group (52.28 ± 0.87 ms), reflecting global myocardial dysfunction. The right and left myocardial performance indexes were significantly higher in the asthmatic (0.43 ± 0.01 and 0.37 ± 0.01, respectively) compared with control group (0.40 ± 0.01 and 0.34 ± 0.01, respectively) (p = 0.0383 and p = 0.0059, respectively). Physical activity level, and distance travelled on the six-minute walk test were similar in both groups. Conclusion: Changes in echocardiographic parameters, evaluated by conventional and TDI, were observed in mild-to-moderate asthma patients even with normal functional exercise capacity and baseline physical activity level. Our results suggest that the echocardiogram may be useful for the early detection and evoluation of asthma-induced cardiac changes.

Resumo Fundamento: Apesar de avanços significativos no entendimento da fisiopatologia e manejo da asma, alguns efeitos sistêmicos da asma ainda não são bem definidos. Objetivos: Comparar a função cardíaca, o nível de atividade física basal, e a capacidade funcional de pacientes jovens com asma leve a moderada com controles saudáveis. Métodos: Dezoito voluntários saudáveis (12,67 ± 0,39 anos) e 20 pacientes asmáticos (12,0 ± 0,38 anos) foram incluídos no estudo. Os parâmetros de ecocardiografia foram avaliados pelo exame de ecocardiogragia com Doppler convencional e tecidual (EDT). Resultados: Apesar de o tempo de aceleração pulmonar (TAP) e da pressão arterial sistólica pulmonar (PASP) encontrarem-se dentro da faixa de normalidade, esses parâmetros foram significativamente diferentes entre o grupo controle e o grupo asmático. O TAP foi menor (p < 0,0001) e a PASP maior (p < 0,0002) no grupo de indivíduos asmáticos (114,3 ± 3,70 ms e 25,40 ± 0,54 mmHg) que o grupo controle (135,30 ± 2,28 ms e 22,22 ± 0,40 mmHg). O grupo asmático apresentou velocidade diastólica inicial do miocárdio (E', p = 0,0047) e relação entre E' e velocidade tardia mais baixas (E'/A', p = 0,0017) (13,75 ± 0,53 cm/s e 1,70 ± 0,09, respectivamente) em comparação ao grupo controle (15,71 ± 0,34 cm/s e 2,12 ± 0,08, respectivamente) na valva tricúspide. No exame Doppler tecidual do anel mitral lateral, o grupo asmático apresentou menor E' em comparação ao grupo controle (p = 0,0466; 13,27 ± 0,43 cm/s e 14,32 ± 0,25 cm/s, respectivamente), mas não houve diferença estatística na razão E'/A' (p = 0,1161). O tempo de relaxamento isovolumétrico foi maior no grupo de pacientes asmáticos (57,15 ± 0,97 ms) que no grupo controle (52,28 ± 0,87 ms) (p = 0,0007), refletindo uma disfunção global do miocárdio. O índice de performance miocárdica direito e esquerdo foi significativamente maior no grupo asmático (0,43 ± 0,01 e 0,37 ± 0,01, respectivamente) que no grupo controle (0,40 ± 0,01 e 0,34 ± 0,01, respectivamente) (p = 0,0383 e p = 0,0059 respectivamente). O nível de atividade física e a distância percorrida no teste de caminhada de seis minutos foram similares entre os grupos. Conclusão: Mudanças nos parâmetros ecocardiográficos, avaliados pela ecocardiografia convencional e pela EDT foram observadas em pacientes com asma moderada a grave com capacidade funcional e nível de atividade física basal normais. Nossos resultados sugerem que o ecocardiograma pode ser útil para a detecção precoce e a evolução de alterações cardíacas induzidas pela asma. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2018; 110(3):231-239)

Doppler velocimetry in fetal rats exposed to enoxaparin and unfractionated heparin (UFH) during pregnancy

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effects of enoxaparin and unfractionated heparin (UFH) administered in prophylactic and therapeutic doses on fetal vessels in healthy pregnant Wistar rats, according to Doppler velocimetry measurements. Methods: Fifty animals were assigned to one of five groups: controls (saline), prophylactic and therapeutic enoxaparin (1 and 2 mg/kg/day, respectively), and prophylactic and therapeutic UFH (72 and 400 UI/kg/day, respectively). Uterine horns were examined by ultrasound for identification of live fetuses. A sample of these fetuses underwent Doppler velocimetry. Spectral curves, peak systolic velocity (PSV), pulsatility index (PI), and resistance index (RI) of the middle cerebral artery, ductus venosus, and umbilical artery were investigated. Differences were considered statistically significant when p<0.05. Results: No significant differences in PSV, PI, or RI values were observed among the groups. Conclusion: Doppler velocimetry measurements revealed no significant effects of enoxaparin or unfractionated heparin on fetal vessels in pregnant Wistar rats.

Prognostic Value of Coronary Flow Reserve Obtained on Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography and its Correlation with Target Heart Rate / Valor Prognóstico da Reserva de Fluxo Coronariano Obtida Durante o Ecocardiograma sob Estresse com Dobutamina e sua Correlação com a Frequência Cardíaca Alvo

Abstract Background: Normal coronary flow velocity reserve (CFVR) (≥ 2) obtained in the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) from transthoracic echocardiography is associated with a good prognosis, but there is no study correlating CFVR with submaximal target heart rate (HR). Objective: To evaluate the prognostic value of CFVR obtained in the LAD of patients with preserved (>50%) left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) who completed a dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE), considering target HR. Methods: Prospective study of patients with preserved LVEF and CFVR obtained in the LAD who completed DSE. In Group I (GI = 31), normal CFVR was obtained before achieving target HR, and, in Group II (GII = 28), after that. Group III (G III=24) reached target HR, but CFVR was abnormal. Death, acute coronary insufficiency, coronary intervention, coronary angiography without further intervention, and hospitalization were considered events. Results: In 28 ± 4 months, there were 18 (21.6%) events: 6% (2/31) in GI, 18% (5/28) in GII, and 46% (11/24) in GIII. There were 4 (4.8%) deaths, 6 (7.2%) coronary interventions and 8 (9.6%) coronary angiographies without further intervention. In event-free survival by regression analysis, GIII had more events than GI (p < 0.001) and GII (p < 0.045), with no difference between GI and GII (p = 0.160). After adjustment, the only difference was between GIII and GI (p = 0.012). Conclusion: In patients with preserved LVEF and who completed their DSE, normal CFVR obtained before achieving target HR was associated with better prognosis.

Resumo Fundamento: A reserva de velocidade de fluxo coronariano (RVFC) adequada (≥ 2) obtida na artéria descendente anterior (ADA) através do ecocardiograma transtorácico associa-se a bom prognóstico, mas não há estudo correlacionando-a com a frequência cardíaca (FC) alvo (submáxima). Objetivo: Avaliar o valor prognóstico da RVFC obtida na ADA de pacientes com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) preservada (>50%) e ecocardiograma sob estresse com dobutamina (EED) concluído, considerando a FC alvo submáxima. Métodos: studo prospectivo de pacientes com FEVE preservada e RVFC obtida na ADA durante EED concluído. No Grupo I (GI=31), a RVFC adequada foi obtida antes de se atingir a FC alvo, e no Grupo II (G II=28), após. O Grupo III (G III=24) atingiu a FC alvo, mas a RVFC foi inadequada. Foram considerados eventos: óbito, insuficiência coronariana aguda, intervenção coronariana, coronariografia sem intervenção subsequente e internamento hospitalar. Resultados: Em 28 ± 4 meses, ocorreram 18 (21,6%) eventos, sendo 6% (2/31) no GI, 18% (5/28) no GII e 46% (11/24) no GIII. Foram 4 (4,8%) óbitos, 6 (7,2%) intervenções coronarianas e 8 (9,6%) coronariografias sem intervenção subsequente. Na sobrevida livre de eventos pela análise de regressão, GIII apresentou mais eventos do que GI (p < 0,001) ou GII (p < 0,045), não havendo diferença entre GI e GII (p = 0,160). Após o ajustamento, foi mantida a diferença apenas entre GIII e GI (p = 0,012). Conclusão: Em pacientes com FEVE preservada e EED concluído, a RVFC adequada obtida antes da FC alvo associou-se ao melhor prognóstico.

Myocardial velocities obtained by pulsed tissue Doppler in English Cocker Spaniels with dilated cardiomyopathy and congestive heart failure / Velocidades miocárdicas obtidas por meio de Doppler tecidual pulsátil em cães da raça Cocker Spaniel Inglês com cardiomiopatia dilatada e insuficiência cardíaca congestiva

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by systolic myocardial dysfunction which is identified by low myocardial velocities obtained by pulsed tissue Doppler (PTD). However, increased preload is known to increase myocardial velocities which could overestimate myocardial function and turn dysfunction characterization into a challenge in dogs with DCM and congestive heart failure. To test the hypothesis that increased preload could hamper identification of low myocardial velocities in dogs with DCM and congestive heart failure the present study prospectively evaluated 32 English Cocker Spaniel dogs, being 16 with clinical DCM and 16 healthy for control purpose. The PTD analysis of regional velocities were performed in both longitudinal and radial myocardial displacements and systolic (Sm), early (Em) and late diastolic (Am) velocities were obtained in left ventricular free wall (LVFW) and interventricular septum (IVS). Peak radial subendocardial and subepicardial Sm velocities were lower in DCM group compared to control (0.065±0.018 vs. 0.102±0.020m/s and 0.059±0.014 vs. 0.094±0.025m/s respectively; p<0.001). Peak longitudinal Sm velocities were lower in basal and medial portions of LVFW (0.093±0.034 vs. 0.155±0.034m/s and 0.091±0.033 vs. 0.134±0.037m/s respectively; p<0.001) and IVS (0.063±0.021 vs. 0.136±0.039 and 0.066±0.026 vs. 0.104±0.032m/s respectively; p<0.001). Most of diastolic velocities were not significantly different between groups, although advanced myocardial disease and dysfunction are expected in DCM group. Reduction in systolic basal and medial longitudinal myocardial velocities and in radial myocardial velocities was the most significant PTD findings. Increased preload did not represent a problem to evaluate systolic dysfunction by PTD in English Cocker Spaniels with DCM, but influence of preload on assessment of diastolic velocities should be better elucidated.(AU)

A cardiomiopatia dilatada (CMD) é caracterizada por disfunção miocárdica sistólica, a qual pode ser identificada pelas baixas velocidades miocárdicas obtidas por meio de Doppler tecidual pulsátil (DTP). Contudo, sabe-se que a elevada pré-carga aumenta as velocidades miocárdicas, o que poderia superestimar a função miocárdica e tornar desafiadora a caracterização da disfunção nos cães com CMD e insuficiência cardíaca congestiva. Para testar a hipótese de que a elevada pré-carga pode mascarar a identificação de baixas velocidades miocárdicas nos cães com CMD e insuficiência cardíaca congestiva, o presente estudo avaliou prospectivamente 32 cães da raça Cocker Spaniel Inglês, sendo 16 com manifestações clínicas de CMD e 16 hígidos para efeito de grupo controle. A análise DTP das velocidades regionais foi realizada tanto no deslocamento miocárdico longitudinal quanto radial e foram obtidas as velocidades sistólica (Sm), diastólica inicial (Em) e tardia (Am) na parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo (PLVE) e no septo interventricular (SIV). Os valores de Sm radial subendocárdicos e subepicárdicos foram menores no grupo CMD em comparação com o grupo controle (0,065±0,018 vs. 0,102±0,020m/s e 0,059±0,014 vs. 0,094±0,025m/s, respectivamente; p<0,001). Os valores de Sm longitudinais foram menores nas porções basal e intermediária da parede do ventrículo esquerdo (0,093±0,034 vs. 0,155±0,034m/s e 0,091±0,033 vs. 0,134±0,037m/s, respectivamente; p<0,001) e do septo interventricular (0,063±0,021 vs. 0,136±0,039 e 0,066±0,026 vs. 0,104±0,032m/s, respectivamente; p<0.001). A maioria dos índices diastólicos não apresentou diferença significativa entre os grupos, apesar de a doença miocárdica avançada e a disfunção serem esperadas no grupo CMD. A redução nas velocidades sistólicas longitudinais nos segmentos basais e intermediários e nas velocidades radiais representaram os achados mais relevantes no estudo com DTP. Nos cães da raça Cocker Spaniel Inglês com CMD e insuficiência cardíaca congestiva a pré-carga elevada não representou empecilho para a avaliação da disfunção sistólica por meio de DTP, porém a influência da pré-carga na avaliação das velocidades diastólicas deve ser mais bem investigada.(AU)

Assessment of the left ventricular function in normotensive prediabetics: a tissue Doppler echocardiography study

ABSTRACT Objective Several studies have shown that left ventricular (LV) dysfunction is increased in individuals with diabetes. However, there are scarce data about LV function in prediabetics. This study assessed the early changes in LV diastolic and systolic myocardial function in normotensive prediabetics using tissue Doppler echocardiography (TDE). Subjects and methods We evaluated 94 patients with prediabetes (mean age of 50.8 ± 6.9 years, 78 female) without known cardiovascular diseases and 70 healthy volunteers with similar demographic characteristics. Systolic and diastolic function of the left ventricle was evaluated with transthoracic echocardiography according to the latest consensus recommendations including TDE. Results The mean results of septal and lateral parts of the mitral annulus Pulsed wave TDE showed that myocardial systolic wave (Sm), myocardial early diastolic wave (Em) and Em to atrial peak velocity (Am) ratio were significantly lower whereas early diastolic peak flow velocity (E) to Em ratio, myocardial isovolumetric relaxation time (IVRTm), myocardial isovolumetric contraction time (IVCTm) and myocardial performance index (MPI) values were significantly higher in patients with prediabetes (preDM). In addition, mean left atrium (LA) diameter measured with M-mode echocardiography was significantly higher in prediabetics than controls. Conclusion PreDM is associated with subclinical LV systolic and diastolic dysfunction as evaluated by TDE.

Concordance between Doppler and pulsed-wave Doppler tissue imaging in estimation of the degree of left ventricular dysfunction and correlating it to the degree of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Objective: As a consequence of leftward shift of the interventricular septum and of pericardial restraint, related to the degree of right ventricular dilation, alveolar hypoxia and related pulmonary vascular changes, left ventricular function is influenced by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of echocardiographic abnormalities by conventional echocardiography and Doppler tissue imaging [DTI] in COPD patients according to the degree of disease severity

Methods: We enrolled forty consecutive patients with COPD and twenty matched control. Twenty of the patients were suffering from mild form of COPD, twenty were suffering from severe form of COPD as decided by pulmonary function test and arterial blood gases and twenty apparently healthy non COPD control persons were subjected to echocardiographic assessment to left ventricular diastolic and systolic functions by conventional echocardiography and DTI at the mitral annulus

Results: There were no significant statistical difference between the three groups as regards the age and the gender. There were significant statistical differences between the patients and the control as regards the diastolic functions of the left ventricle. E and A waves obtained by conventional Doppler and by DTI showed significant statistical difference between mild, severe forms of COPD and control subjects. The degree of diastolic dysfunction increased significantly with increase of the severity of COPD

Conclusion: Left ventricular diastolic function is significantly affected in patients with COPD and the degree of affection is related to the severity of COPD

Evaluation of pulmonary artery pressure and resistance by pulsed Doppler echocardiography in patients with end-stage renal disease on dialysis therapy

Background: Pulmonary hypertension [PH] is one of the most important comorbidities in patients undergoing hemodialysis [HD]. The goal of the present work is to determine the possible etiologic factors for its occurrence

Methods: The prevalence of PH was estimated by Doppler echocardiography in a cohort of 100 patients aged 49.3 +/- 13.9 years on regular HD. Mean pulmonary artery pressure was estimated from pulmonary acceleration time by Mahan's regression equation. Pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were calculated. We focused on the effect of HD on left and right ventricle diastolic and systolic function. Right ventricle systolic function was assessed by tricuspid annular systolic excursion and pulsed Doppler myocardial performance index. Since impaired endothelial function was postulated as an underlying cause of PH, we studied the effects of HD on brachial artery endothelial function

Results: The current study found that pulmonary hypertension was prevalent in 70% of patients on dialysis. Left atrium diameter, left ventricle mass indexed to body surface area, and mitral E/E0 were increased in the dialysis group [4.4 +/- 0.2 cm, 126.5 +/- 24.6 g/m[2], and 16.9 +/- 4.4, respectively, p < 0.001 for all]. Pulmonary artery systolic pressure was positively correlated to duration of dialysis and negatively correlated to glomerular filtration rate [p < 0.001 and r = -0.991]. Pulmonary vascular resistance was significantly increased in dialysis patients [1.9 +/- 0.2 Wood units vs. 1.2 Wood units in controls, p < 0.001]. Endothelial dysfunction, defined as brachial artery flow mediated dilatation <6%, was found in 46% of dialysis group

Conclusion: Increased pulmonary artery systolic pressure in the HD population could be attributed to left atrium dilatation and left ventricle diastolic dysfunction. Pulmonary vascular resistance was significantly increased in dialysis group. This might be explained by impaired endothelial nitric oxide synthesis that not only caused systemic vasoconstriction but also affected the pulmonary vasculature

Avaliação da função diastólica por meio de Doppler tecidual pulsado e colorido em gatos da raça Maine Coon geneticamente testados para a mutação no gene MyBPC-A31P / Assessment of diastolic function by pulsed and color tissue Doppler echocardiography in Maine Coon cats tested for MyBPC-A31P mutation

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common feline heart disease and is characterized by increased cardiac mass with a hypertrophied nondilated left ventricle. Myocardial dysfunction occurs in cats with HCM but less is known about dysfunctions in initial stages of HCM. A mutation in MYBPC-A31P gene has been identified in a colony of Maine Coon cats with HCM. However, the close correlation between genotype and phenotype still be inconclusive. Myocardial analysis by tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) is a noninvasive echocardiographic method to assess systolic and diastolic function that is more sensitive than conventional echocardiography. To evaluate diastolic and systolic function in cats with mutation, with or without ventricular hypertrophy, Maine Coon cats (n=57) were screened for mutation and examined with both echocardiography and TDI (pulsed tissue Doppler and color tissue Doppler methods). Then, were phenotypically classified in: normal (n=45), suspects (n=7) and HCM group (n=5); and genotypically classified in: negative (n=28), heterozygous (n=26) and homozygous group (n=3). Myocardial velocities (by pulsed and color tissue Doppler imaging) measured in the basal and mildventricular segment of the interventricular septal wall (IVS), left ventricular free wall (LVW), left ventricular anterior wall (LVAW), left ventricular posterior wall (LVPW) and radial segment of LVW, was compared among different groups. A decreased longitudinal Em velocities (pulsed tissue Doppler) at the mildventricular segment of LVW was observed in HCM cats compared with suspects and normal cats. A decreased longitudinal Em/Am (color tissue Doppler) at the basal segment of IVS was observed in HCM cats compared with suspects and normal cats. A significant increased longitudinal E/Em (color tissue Doppler) at the basal segment of IVS was observed in HCM cats compared with suspects and normal cats. And a significant decreased longitudinal Sm (color tissue Doppler) at the basal segment of the LVW was observed in heterozygous cats compared with negative cats, both without hypertrophy. There was a positive correlation between summated early and late diastolic velocities (Em/Am) and heart rate; and a positive correlation between Sm and Em velocities and heart rate, both in pulsed and in color TDI. TDI analyses are a new, valuable and reproducible method in cats that alone is not able to identify cats with mutation before myocardial hypertrophy. Despite high expectations regarding the use of TDI for early identification of individuals with HCM, there is still need for larger studies with greater numbers of individuals.

A cardiomiopatia hipertrófica (CMH) é a principal cardiopatia dos felinos e é caracterizada por hipertrofia miocárdica concêntrica, sem dilatação ventricular. Disfunções miocárdicas ocorrem em gatos com CMH, mas pouco se conhece a respeito destas alterações nos estágios iniciais da afecção. Em gatos da raça Maine Coon, a mutação no gene MyBPC-A31P está relacionada com a CMH de origem familial, porém, a correlação exata entre o genótipo e o fenótipo ainda é inconclusiva. A ecocardiografia tecidual é uma modalidade não invasiva que permite avaliação da função miocárdica e é mais sensível que a ecocardiografia convencional. Para avaliar as funções sistólica e diastólica, antes ou após a ocorrência de hipertrofia ventricular, gatos da raça Maine Coon (n=57), geneticamente testados para a mutação, foram avaliados por meio de ecocardiografias convencional e tecidual (nas modalidades Doppler tecidual pulsado e Doppler tecidual colorido). Posteriormente, foram fenotipicamente classificados em: normais (n=45), suspeitos (n=7) e acometidos pela CMH (n=5); e genotipicamente classificados em: negativos (n=28), heterozigotos (n=26) e homozigotos para a mutação (n=3). Valores de velocidades miocárdicas (Doppler tecidual pulsado e colorido) medidos na região basal e média do septo interventricular (SIV), da parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo (PVE), da parede anterior do ventrículo esquerdo (PAVE), da parede posterior do ventrículo esquerdo (PPVE) e do segmento radial da PVE, foram comparados nos diferentes grupos. Observou-se que as velocidades longitudinais Em (Doppler tecidual pulsado) na região média da PVE foram menores nos gatos com CMH quando comparados com suspeitos e normais. Os valores de Em/Am (Doppler tecidual colorido), na região basal do SIV, foram inferiores nos gatos com CMH quando comparados com suspeitos e normais. A relação E/Em (Doppler tecidual colorido), na região basal do SIV, foi maior nos gatos com CMH em relação aos suspeitos e normais, enquanto que os valores de Sm (Doppler tecidual colorido), em região basal da PVE, foram menores nos gatos heterozigotos quando comparados com os negativos, ambos sem hipertrofia ventricular. Observou-se correlação positiva entre a ocorrência de fusão das ondas Em e Am e a frequência cardíaca, assim como correlação positiva entre valores de Sm e Em e a frequência cardíaca (Doppler tecidual pulsado e colorido). A ecocardiografia tecidual é uma nova modalidade ecocardiográfica reprodutível em gatos que, isoladamente, não permite diferenciar gatos portadores da mutação antes do desenvolvimento de hipertrofia ventricular. Apresenta utilidade como auxílio no diagnóstico em fases iniciais, mas, apesar da expectativa para a identificação precoce de indivíduos portadores da CMH, ainda há necessidade de estudos mais extensos e com maior número de indivíduos.

Um Novo Indice de Doppler Tecidual para Prever Morte Cardiaca em Pacientes com Insuficiencia Cardiaca / A New Tissue Doppler Index to Predict Cardiac Death in Patients with Heart Failure

Fundamento: Foi demonstrado que um novo índice de Doppler Tecidual, E/(E'×S'), incluindo a proporção entre a velocidade diastólica precoce transmitral e a do anel mitral (E/E'), e a velocidade sistólica do anel mitral (S'), tem uma boa precisão como preditor da pressão de enchimento do ventrículo esquerdo. Objetivo: Investigar o valor de E/(E'×S') para prever a morte cardíaca em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca. Métodos: Foi realizado sucessivamente o ecocardiograma em 339 pacientes hospitalizados com insuficiência cardíaca, em ritmo sinusal, após tratamento médico adequado, no momento e um mês depois da alta. O agravamento de E/(E'×S') foi definido como um aumento do valor padrão. O ponto final foi a morte cardíaca. Resultados: Durante o período de acompanhamento (35,2 ± 8,8 meses), ocorreu a morte cardíaca em 51 pacientes (15%). O melhor valor mínimo para E/(E'× S') inicial na previsão da morte cardíaca foi de 2,83 (76% de sensibilidade, 85% de especificidade). No momento da alta, 252 pacientes (74,3%) apresentaram E/(E'×S') ≤ 2,83 (grupo I), e 87 (25,7%) apresentaram E/(E'×S') > 2,83 (grupo II), respectivamente. A morte cardíaca foi significativamente maior no grupo II em relação ao grupo I (38 mortes, 43,7% contra 13 mortes, 5,15%, p < 0,001). Através da análise de regressão multivariada de Cox, incluindo as variáveis que afetaram os resultados na análise univariada, a relação E/(E'×S') no momento da alta mostrou-se o melhor preditor independente da morte cardíaca (taxa de risco = 3,09, 95% intervalo de confiança = 1,81-5,31, p = 0,001). Pacientes com E/(E'×S') > 2,83 no momento da alta e com um agravamento após um mês apresentaram o pior prognóstico (todos p < 0,05). ...

Background: It has been shown that a new tissue Doppler index, E/(E'×S'), including the ratio between early diastolic transmitral and mitral annular velocity (E/E'), and the systolic mitral annular velocity (S'), has a good accuracy to predict left ventricular filling pressure. Objectives: We investigated the value of E/(E'×S') to predict cardiac death in patients with heart failure. Methods: Echocardiography was performed in 339 consecutive hospitalized patients with heart failure, in sinus rhythm, after appropriate medical treatment, at discharge and after one month. Worsening of E/(E'×S') was defined as any increase of baseline value. The end point was cardiac death. Results: During the follow-up period (35.2 ± 8.8 months), cardiac death occurred in 51 patients (15%). The optimal cut-off value for the initial E/(E'×S') to predict cardiac death was 2.83 (76% sensitivity, 85% specificity). At discharge, 252 patients (74.3%) presented E/(E'×S') ≤ 2.83 (group I) and 87 (25.7%) presented E/(E'×S') > 2.83 (group II), respectively. Cardiac death was significantly higher in group II than in group I (38 deaths, 43.7% vs 13 deaths, 5.15%, p < 0.001). By multivariate Cox regression analysis, including variables that affected outcome in univariate analysis, E/(E'×S') at discharge was the best independent predictor of cardiac death (hazard ratio = 3.09, 95% confidence interval = 1.81-5.31, p = 0.001). Patients with E/(E'×S') > 2.83 at discharge and its worsening after one month presented the worst prognosis (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: In patients with heart failure, the E/(E'×S') ratio is a powerful predictor of cardiac death, particularly if it is associated with its worsening. .

Evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function by TE-e' measurement using dual Doppler echocardiography in coronary heart disease patients with preserved systolic function / 南方医科大学学报

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the accuracy of the time interval between the onset of early transmitral flow velocity (E) and that of early diastolic mitral annular velocity (e') (TE-e') measured by dual Doppler echocardiography in the diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Seventy-seven coronary heart disease patients with preserved systolic function underwent a echocardiographic study. Early transmitral flow velocity E and early diastolic mitral annular velocity e' were simultaneously recorded by dual Doppler echocardiography. The E/e' and TE-e' were calculated and compared with the left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP), which was measured invasively. The validity of TE-e', E/e' and their combination was analyzed in estimating left ventricular dysfunction (LVEDP ≥12 mmHg).</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The single-beat E/e' and TE-e' were correlated with the LVEDP (r=0.79 and 0.42, respectively, P<0.001). Receiver-operating characteristic analysis showed that the optimal cut-off for TE-e' was 38 ms (sensitivity 54%, specificity 79%, AUC 0.71) and that for E/e' was 9.2 (sensitivity 74%, specificity 81%, AUC 0.87) for diagnosis of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. The combined cut-offs of TE-e'≥38 ms and E/e'≥9.2 had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 62% in diagnosing left ventricular diastolic dysfunction with an AUC of 0.96.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>In patients with coronary heart disease, the simultaneous recording of TE-e' by dual Doppler echocardiography can accurately estimate diastolic dysfunction, and its combination with E/e' can further improve the diagnostic accuracy.</p>

Echocardiographic assessment of coronary artery flow in normal canines and model dogs with myocardial infarction

This study was conducted to evaluate the usefulness of coronary arterial profiles from normal dogs (11 animals) and canines (six dogs) with experimental myocardial infarction (MI) induced by ligation of the left coronary artery (LCA). Blood velocity of the LCA and right coronary artery (RCA) were evaluated following transthoracic pulsed-wave Doppler echocardiography. The LCA was observed as an infundibular shape, located adjacent to the sinus of Valsalva. The RCA appeared as a tubular structure located 12 o'clock relative to the aorta. In normal dogs, the LCA and RCA mean peak diastolic velocities were 20.84 +/- 3.24 and 19.47 +/- 2.67 cm/sec, respectively. The LCA and RCA mean diastolic deceleration times were 0.91 +/- 0.14 sec and 1.13 +/- 0.20 sec, respectively. In dogs with MI, the LCA had significantly (p < 0.01) lower peak velocities (14.82 +/- 1.61 cm/sec) than the RCA (31.61 +/- 2.34 cm/sec). The RCA had a significantly (p < 0.01) rapid diastolic deceleration time (0.71 +/- 0.06 sec) than that found in the LCA (1.02 +/- 0.22 sec) of MI dogs. In conclusion, these profiles may serve as a differential factor for evaluating cardiomyopathy in dogs.

Hemodynamic effects of mannitol infusion in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage

PURPOSE: To evaluate hemodynamic effects of mannitol infusion in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage. METHODS: Thirty patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage were enrolled. Transcranial doppler was used to detect variables of bilateral middle cerebral arteria (MCA) including mean velocity (Vm) and pulsitility index (PI) before and after125ml and 250ml mannitol infusion (0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240 min). RESULTS: When 125ml or 250ml mannitol was infused in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage, Vm of bilateral MCA elevated, and reached the top at 30min, and then decreased. PI decreased in the affected MCA (250ml) and in the unaffected MCA (125ml and 250ml). CONCLUSION: Mannitol infusion in patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage can improve cerebral blood flow in bilateral hemispheres and decrease intracranial pressure in the hemorrhagic hemisphere (250ml) and in the nonhemorrhagic hemisphere (125ml and 250ml).

Aortic runoff as a sign of intracranial arteriovenous malformation: report of two cases

Intracranial arteriovenous malformation rarely causes pulmonary hypertension and congestive heart failure in the newborn. Its diagnosis is challenging because cardiomegaly may suggest an intra-cardiac structural lesion. We present two newborns, one 2-day-old male and the other 11-day-old female, with intracranial arteriovenous malformation and misdiagnosis of congenital heart disease. Precise echocardiography revealed the secondary signs of cranial arteriovenous malformation and had the major role in early diagnosis

Síndrome do roubo da subclávia / Suclavian steal syndrome

A síndrome do roubo da subclávia refere-se a uma desordem vascular na qual ocorre inversão do fluxo de sangue da artéria vertebral ipsilateral, decorrente de uma estenose proximal à sua origem, geralmente uma oclusão da artéria subclávia ou, mais raramente, do tronco braquiocefálico. É uma doença relativamente rara, relatada em aproximadamente 6% dos pacientes assintomáticos com sopros cervicais. O Doppler pulsado (PW) é útil na análise da artéria vertebral, registrando informações capazes de identicar a presença da Síndrome do Roubo da Subclávia. Com base nas alterações hemodinâmicas da arteria vertebral avaliadas pelo estudo com Doppler Espectral, podem ser identificados três tipos de roubo da subclávia: oculto, parcial e completo. Com o advento da angioplastia transluminal percutânea e, em seguida, dos Stents, muitos advogam esta combinação de procedimentos como o tratamento de escolha dos casos sintomático desta síndrome.