Como eu faço o strain longitudinal do ventrículo direito com softwares automatizados 2D e 3D / My approach to right ventricular longitudinal strain with automated 2D and 3D software

A análise da deformação miocárdica ventricular direita tem surgido como uma ferramenta diagnóstica importante na detecção de disfunção sistólica ventricular direita inicial não detectada pelas técnicas ecocardiográficas convencionais. Além disso, é capaz de trazer informações diagnósticas e prognósticas adicionais aos parâmetros tradicionais de avaliação da função sistólica ventricular direita em diversas patologias. O método ecocardiográfico de escolha para sua avaliação é o strain longitudinal derivado do speckletracking. Ele tem se mostrado mais sensível para pequenas mudanças na função sistólica quando comparado à excursão sistólica do plano do anel tricúspide, estudo da onda s´ ao Doppler tecidual do anel tricúspide e variação da área fracional do ventrículo direito. O avanço da inteligência artificial e a presença de softwares com análise automatizada entram neste cenário visando tornar a aplicabilidade do método mais simples, rápida e com menor variabilidade inter e intraobservador. O objetivo deste artigo de revisão é demonstrar o passo a passo da técnica, desde a otimização e aquisição de imagens até a interpretação dos resultados, com figuras ilustrativas de casos selecionados.(AU)

Right ventricular strain analysis has emerged as an important diagnostic tool in the detection of early right ventricular systolic dysfunction not detected by conventional echocardiography techniques. Furthermore, it is capable of providing additional diagnostic and prognostic information to the traditional parameters for evaluating right ventricular systolic function in various pathologies. The echocardiography method of choice for its assessment is longitudinal strain derived from speckletracking. This method has been shown to be more sensitive for small changes in systolic function when compared to tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion, tissue Doppler imaging of the tricuspid annular s' wave, and right ventricular fractional area change. Advances in artificial intelligence and software with automated analysis have been introduced to this scenario with the aim of making the method simpler and quicker to apply, with lower inter- and intra-observer variability. The objective of this review article is to demonstrate the technique step by step, from image optimization and acquisition to interpretation of results, with illustrative figures of selected cases.(AU)

Right ventricular-arterial uncoupling as an independent prognostic factor in acute heart failure with preserved ejection fraction accompanied with coronary artery disease / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#Right ventricular (RV)-arterial uncoupling is a powerful independent predictor of prognosis in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Coronary artery disease (CAD) can contribute to the pathophysiological characteristics of HFpEF. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of RV-arterial uncoupling in acute HFpEF patients with CAD.@*METHODS@#This prospective study included 250 consecutive acute HFpEF patients with CAD. Patients were divided into RV-arterial uncoupling and coupling groups by the optimal cutoff value, based on a receiver operating characteristic curve of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion to pulmonary artery systolic pressure (TAPSE/PASP). The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death, recurrent ischemic events, and HF hospitalizations.@*RESULTS@#TAPSE/PASP ≤0.43 provided good accuracy in identifying patients with RV-arterial uncoupling (area under the curve, 0.731; sensitivity, 61.4%; and specificity, 76.6%). Of the 250 patients, 150 and 100 patients could be grouped into the RV-arterial coupling (TAPSE/PASP >0.43) and uncoupling (TAPSE/PASP ≤0.43) groups, respectively. Revascularization strategies were slightly different between groups; the RV-arterial uncoupling group had a lower rate of complete revascularization (37.0% [37/100] vs . 52.7% [79/150], P <0.001) and a higher rate of no revascularization (18.0% [18/100] vs . 4.7% [7/150], P <0.001) compared to the RV-arterial coupling group. The cohort with TAPSE/PASP ≤0.43 had a significantly worse prognosis than the cohort with TAPSE/PASP >0.43. Multivariate Cox analysis showed TAPSE/PASP ≤0.43 as an independent associated factor for the primary endpoint, all-cause death, and recurrent HF hospitalization (hazard ratios [HR]: 2.21, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.44-3.39, P <0.001; HR: 3.32, 95% CI: 1.30-8.47, P = 0.012; and HR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.10-3.37, P = 0.021, respectively), but not for recurrent ischemic events (HR: 1.48, 95% CI: 0.75-2.90, P = 0.257).@*CONCLUSION@#RV-arterial uncoupling, based on TAPSE/PASP, is independently associated with adverse outcomes in acute HFpEF patients with CAD.

Right ventricular anatomical and functional parameters in healthy Mexican term newborns / Parámetros anatómicos y funcionales del ventrículo derecho en recién nacidos Mexicanos sanos

Abstract Objective: Right ventricle (RV) function plays an important role during fetal and neonatal transitional circulation. Despite the published echocardiography guidelines in children including neonates, there is scare evidence on RV assessment using echocardiography in Mexican neonates. This study was aimed at assessing RV function and anatomical measures in healthy term newborns and defines normal values in this cohort of patients. Methods: A prospective study involving healthy term newborns in a single center were enrolled in the study to assess RV, all patients were recruited within 24-72 h after birth. The right ventricular assessment was performed as per American Society of Echocardiography's guidelines. Results: Seventy healthy term newborns with a median gestational age of 38 (38.5 ± 2.7) weeks had RV function assessment and anatomical structures measures with a predefined ten echocardiographic parameters protocol. The mean values for: tricuspid valve diameter was 13 mm ± 1.8, basal diameter of the RV 16.7 mm ± 2, RV length 27.8 mm ± 2.2, mid cavity diameter 14.3 mm ± 1.7, RV-anteroinferior basal diameter 21.5 mm ± 2.5, tricuspid regurgitation gradient 13.3 mmHg ± 5.9, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion 8.7 mm, right ventricular fractional area change (RVFAC) 4 chamber (%) 40.6 ± 7.5, tricuspid E/A 0.7 ± 0.5, myocardial velocities (cm/s) E´ 8 ± 2.7, A´ 9.6 ± 2.4, S´ 6.9 ± 1.2, myocardial performance index 0.5 ± 0.1, RVFAC 3 chamber (%) 37.8 ± 15.8, and pulmonary acceleration time mean value 58.8 ± 14.9. Flattening of interventricular septum was seen in 13% infants. Conclusions: This study describes echocardiographic parameters for anatomical structures and assessment of RV function in healthy term newborns during transitional circulation. We reported novel anatomical measures of the RV; this information can provide normal reference range values and be referenced while assessing RV function in normal and sick newborns during transitional circulation.

Resumen Objetivo: Realizar una valoración ecocardiográfica de parámetros anatómicos y funcionales del ventrículo derecho (VD) en recién nacidos de término (RNT) sanos durante el periodo transicional. Método: Estudio prospectivo en RNT sanos de la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales del Hospital Español. Todos los pacientes fueron estudiados en las primeras 24-72 horas de vida, con base en las guías de la American Society of Echocardiography. Resultados: Se estudiaron 70 RNT sanos con una media de edad gestacional de 38 semanas de gestación (38.5 ± 2.7); en estos pacientes se obtuvieron 10 parámetros ecocardiográficos. El valor medio obtenido para la válvula tricúspide fue de 13 ± 1.8 mm, diámetro basal del VD 16.7 ± 2 mm, longitud 27.8 ± 2.2 mm, cavidad media del VD 14.3 ± 1.7 mm, diámetro basal anteroinferior 21.5 ± 2.5 mm, gradiente de insuficiencia tricuspídea 13.3 ± 5.9 mmHg, tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) 8.7 mm, Fracción de acortamiento del VD (FAVD) 4 cámaras (%) 40.6 ± 7.5, E/A tricuspídeo 0.7 ± 0.5, velocidades miocárdicas (cm/s) E´ 8 ± 2.7, A´ 9.6 ± 2.4, S´ 6.9 ± 1.2, índice de rendimiento miocárdico 0.5 ± 0.1, FAVD 3 cámaras (%) 37.8 ± 15.8, tiempo de aceleración pulmonar 58.8 ± 14.9. Conclusiones: Este estudio describe parámetros anatómicos y funcionales del VD en RNT sanos durante el periodo de transición. Se reportan valores de normalidad que pueden servir como referencia.

Función ventricular derecha en residentes nativos a gran altura / Right ventricular function in native residents at high altitude

Los adaptados genéticamente a la altura son los tibetanos, sherpas y etíopes; los aymaras y quechuas están aclimatados (Bolivia, Perú y norte de Chile). En Bolivia el mal crónico de montaña afecta 10% de la población masculina. El objetivo fue determinar la función ventricular derecha en residentes sanos y con mal crónico de montaña mediante ecocardiografía transtoráxica. Se utilizaron participantes sanos y con mal crónico de montaña admitidos por el IBBA, desde el año 2012 al 2013. Las variables tomadas son: demográficas, espirometria forzada, gasometría arterial en reposo e hiperoxia, ECG y ECCTT. Los controles (n 40), la edad promedio (44,13±9,69 años), predominio masculino y sobrepeso (IMC 26,27±6,68kg /m2), procedentes de La Paz 3.600 msnm (54%), Potosí 4.000 msnm (22%), El Alto 4.100 msnm (15%) y Oruro 3.800 msnm (9%), el promedio de Hematocrito 51,34±2,91%, hemoglobina 17,15±0,89gr/ dl, Espirometria forzada y Gasometría arterial en reposo e hiperoxia normales, la ECCTT muestra hipertensión pulmonar leve (35,85±3,64mmHg), aumento de grosor del VD (0,51±0,08), TAPSE (2,94±3,85mmHg) y el índice de Tei (0,44±0,22) normales. Los casos (n 40), la edad promedio (48,43±8,08 años), predominio masculino y sobrepeso (IMC 29,54±3,41kg / m2), procedente de La Paz 3.600 msnm (56%), Potosí 4.000 msnm (24%), El Alto 4.100 msnm (13%) y Oruro 3.800 msnm (7%), Hematocrito 63,08±6,2%, Hemoglobina 21,01±2,01gr/dl con eritrotrocitosis, espirometría forzada normal, gasometría arterial en reposo con hipoxemia moderada (PaO2 51,73±4,68mmHg), hipocapnia (PaCO2 27,62±2,04mmHg) y gradiente Alveolo-arterial aumentado (7,61±3,15). Gasometría arterial en hiperoxia descarta shunt (PaO2 308,9±52,58mmHg), el ECG muestra 2 de 11 criterios de crecimiento VD, la ECCTT con hipertensión pulmonar moderada (PSAP 45,22±5,69mmHg), aumento de grosor del VD (0,73±0,22), TAPSE (2,08±0,18cm), normal e índice de Tei (0,51±0,10) ligeramente aumentado. Se concluyó que la función ventricular derecha se encuentra conservada, a pesar de tener hipertensión pulmonar leve (controles) y moderada (casos), con aumento del grosor del ventrículo derecho.

Those genetically adapted to the height are the Tibetans, Sherpas, and Ethiopians; the Aymara and Quechuas are acclimatized (Bolivia, Peru, and northern Chile). In Bolivia, chronic mountain sickness affects 10% of the male population. The objective was to determine the right ventricular function in healthy residents with chronic mountain sickness using transthoracic echocardiography. Use the healthy and chronically ill mountain participants admitted by the IBBA, from 2012 to 2013. The variables taken are demographic, forced spirometry, arterial blood gas at rest and hyperoxia, ECG, and ECCTT. Controls (n 40), average age (44.13 ± 9.69 years), male predominance and overweight (BMI 26.27 ± 6.68kg / m2), frequency from La Paz 3,600 masl (54%), Potosí 4,000 masl (22%), El Alto 4,100 masl (15%) and Oruro 3,800 masl (9%), the average Hematocrit 51.34 ± 2.91%, hemoglobin 17.15 ± 0.89gr / dl, Forced spirometry y Resting arterial blood gas and normal hyperoxia, ECCTT shows mild pulmonary hypertension (35.85 ± 3.64 mmHg), increased RV thickness (0.51 ± 0.08), TAPSE (2.94 ± 3.85 mmHg ) and the Tei index (0.44 ± 0.22) normal. The cases (n 40), the average age (48.43 ± 8.08 years), male predominance and overweight (BMI 29.54 ± 3.41kg / m2), derived from La Paz 3,600 masl (56%), Potosí 4,000 masl (24%), El Alto 4,100 masl (13%) and Oruro 3,800 masl (7%), Hematocrit 63.08 ± 6.2%, Hemoglobin 21.01 ± 2.01gr / dl with erythrocytosis, normal forced spirometry , resting arterial blood gas with moderate hypoxemia (PaO2 51.73 ± 4.68mmHg), hypocapnia (PaCO2 27.62 ± 2.04mmHg) and increased Alveolo-arterial gradient (7.61 ± 3.15). Arterial blood gas in hyperoxia rules out shunt (PaO2 308.9 ± 52.58mmHg), ECG shows 2 of 11 RV growth criteria, ECCTT with moderate pulmonary hypertension (PSAP 45.22 ± 5.69mmHg), increased RV thickness (0.73 ± 0.22), TAPSE (2.08 ± 0.18cm), normal and Tei index (0.51 ± 0.10) slightly increased. It was concluded that the right ventricular function is preserved, a weight of having mild pulmonary hypertension (controls) and moderate (cases), with increased thickness of the right ventricle.

Exercise tests in Chagas cardiomyopathy: an overview of functional evaluation, prognostic significance, and current challenges

Abstract Patients with Chagas cardiomyopathy (ChC) usually progress with fatigue and dyspnea. Exercise tests are valuable for the functional evaluation of these patients. However, information about the applicability of the exercise tests is scattered, and no studies have systematically reviewed the results. Thus, the present review explored the general aspects and prognostic value of exercise tests in patients with ChC. A literature search of the MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, and LILACS databases was performed to identify relevant studies. There were no data restrictions, and articles that met the objective of the study were selected. Articles written in English, Portuguese, and Spanish were considered, and 25 articles were finally included. The peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) was correlated with demographic and echocardiographic variables. Echocardiographic features of the left ventricular diastolic function and right ventricular systolic function appeared to be determinants of functional capacity, in addition to age and sex. VO2peak was associated with higher mortality, especially in patients with dilated ChC. The minute ventilation/carbon dioxide production slope (VE/VCO2 slope) was a strong predictor of survival; however, more studies are needed to verify this observation. Field tests showed moderate to strong correlation with VO2peak and thus may be inexpensive tools for the functional evaluation of patients with ChC. However, few studies have verified their prognostic significance. While exercise tests are useful tools for functional assessment, information is scarce regarding further considerations, and many of the criteria are based on guidelines for other heart diseases.

Echocardiographic Correlation between Right Ventricular Function and Left Atrial Volume / Correlação Ecocardiográfica entre Função Ventricular Direita e Volume Atrial Esquerdo

Abstract Background: Few reports exist on the relationship of the left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) with its most important features including enlargement of the left atrium and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), and with the right ventricular (RV) function. Objective: To determine the correlation between the left atrial size and the RV function and dimensions in patients with and without LVDD and LVH. Methods: Fifty patients were included, 25 (40% men) of them with LVDD, aged 67.1 ± 10.6 years (study group) and 25 without LVDD (52% men) aged 49.9 ± 16.3 years (control group). Patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography with evaluation of the left atrial size and volume (LAV), LVDD, LVH, and RV function and dimensions. P-values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: LAV > 34 mL/m2 and left atrial size > 40 mm were associated with lower absolute values of tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and RV lateral S' (p ≤ 0.001, Pearson's correlation coefficient -0.4 and -0.38, respectively) in the study group. Patients in the study group showed higher incidence of LVH (p = 0.02) and greater left atrial diameter (p = 0.03) compared with the control group. In addition, greater left atrial diameter (p = 0.02) and LAV (p = 0.01) values were found in patients with LVDD grade II compared with LVDD grade I. Conclusions: The present study determined, for the first time, the correlation of left atrial enlargement with progressive RV dysfunction in patients with LVDD.

Resumo Fundamentos: A relação entre a disfunção diastólica do ventrículo esquerdo (DDVE), seus achados mais importantes, como aumento do átrio esquerdo e hipertrofia ventricular esquerda (HVE), e a função do ventrículo direito (VD) tem pouca documentação na literatura científica. Objetivo: Avaliar a correlação entre o tamanho atrial esquerdo em indivíduos com e sem DDVE e HVE e função e dimensões do VD. Métodos: Foram selecionados 50 pacientes, sendo 25 com DDVE (grupo de estudo [GE]; 67,1 ± 10,6 anos; 40% homens) e 25 sem DDVE (grupo-controle [GC]; 49,9 ± 16,3 anos; 52% homens). Os pacientes foram submetidos a ecocardiografia transtorácica com avalição do tamanho e volume atrial esquerdo (VAE), DDVE, HVE, dimensões e função do VD. Valores de p < 0,05 indicaram significância estatística. Resultados: VAE > 34 ml/m2 e tamanho atrial esquerdo > 40 mm apresentaram menores valores absolutos de excursão sistólica do plano do anel tricúspide (TAPSE) e S' lateral do VD (p ≤ 0,001, coeficiente de correlação de Pearson de -0,4 e -0,38, respectivamente) no GE. O GE apresentou maior incidência de HVE e maior diâmetro atrial esquerdo quando comparado ao GC (p = 0,02 e p = 0,03, respectivamente). O GE apresentou maior diâmetro e VAE nos indivíduos com DDVE grau II quando comparados aos indivíduos com DDVE grau I (p = 0,02 e p = 0,01, respectivamente). Conclusões: O presente estudo permitiu correlacionar de maneira inédita o aumento atrial esquerdo com diminuição progressiva da função ventricular direita em pacientes com disfunção diastólica de VE.

Right Ventricular Functional Improvement after Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program in Patients with COPD Determined by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography / Melhora da Função Ventricular Direita após Programa de Reabilitação Pulmonar em Pacientes com DPOC Avaliada por Ecocardiografia Speckle Tracking

Abstract Background: Although right ventricular (RV) dysfunction in pulmonary diseases has been associated with increased morbidity, tools for RV dysfunction identification are not well defined. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the magnitude of RV dysfunction by means of speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and to investigate whether STE could be used as an index of RV improvement after a pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program. Methods: Forty-six patients with COPD undergoing PR program and 32 age-sex matched healthy subjects were enrolled. RV function was evaluated at admission and after PR program by conventional two-dimensional echocardiography (2DE) and STE. In addition, exercise tolerance of subjects was evaluated using the six-minute walk test (6MWT). Results: COPD patients had worse RV function according to STE and 2DE as well. STE was more sensitive than conventional 2DE in determining RV improvement after PR program - RV global longitudinal strain (LS): 20.4 ± 2.4% vs. 21.9 ± 2.9% p < 0.001 and RV free wall LS: 18.1 ± 3.4% vs. 22.9 ± 3.7%, p < 0.001). RV free wall LS was directly related to distance walked at baseline 6MWT (r = 0.58, p < 0.001) and to the change in the 6MWT distance (6MWTD ∆) (r = 0.41, p = 0.04). Conclusions: We conclude that STE might be as effective as 2DE for evaluation of global and regional RV functions. STE may become an important tool for assessment and follow-up of COPD patients undergoing PR program to determine the relationship between RV function and exercise tolerance.

Resumo Fundamento: Embora a disfunção do ventrículo direito (VD) nas doenças pulmonares tenha sido associada ao aumento da morbidade, as ferramentas para a identificação da disfunção do VD não estão bem definidas. Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a disfunção do VD por ecocardiografia speckle tracking (STE) em pacientes com doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC), e se a STE pode ser usada como indicador de melhora da função ventricular direita após um programa de reabilitação pulmonar (RP). Métodos: Quarenta e seis pacientes com DPOC submetidos ao programa de RP e 32 controles sadios pareados por sexo e idade foram incluídos no estudo. A função do VD foi avaliada na admissão e após o programa de RP por ecocardiografia bidimensional convencional e por STE. Além disso, a tolerância ao exercício foi avaliada pelo teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6M). Resultados: Pacientes com DPOC apresentaram pior função do VD segundo STE e ecocardiografia bidimensional convencional. Em comparação ao método convencional, a STE mostrou maior sensibilidade em determinar melhora da função ventricular direita após o programa de RP - strain longitudinal (SL) global do VD: 20,4 ± 2,4% vs. 21,9 ± 2,9% p < 0,001; SL da parede livre do VD: 18,1 ± 3,4% vs. 22,9 ± 3,7%, p < 0,001. O SL da parede livre do VD relacionou-se diretamente com a distância percorrida no TC6M basal (r = 0,58, p < 0,001) e com a variação no TC6M ∆ (TC6M) (r = 0,41, p = 0,04). Conclusões: Concluímos que a STE pode ser tão eficaz como a ecocardiografia bidimensional convencional na avaliação das funções globais e regionais do VD. Ainda, a STE pode se tornar uma importante ferramenta de avaliação e acompanhamento de pacientes com DPOC submetidos à RP para determinar a relação entre função ventricular direita e tolerância ao exercício.

Análise da função ventricular direita em portadores de hipotireoidismo / Analysis of right ventricular function in patients with hypothyroidism

Fundamentos: Os hormônios da tireoide exercem ações diretas e indiretas sobre o sistema cardiovascular. Após vários estudos sobre o ventrículo esquerdo, indaga-se quais seriam os efeitos do hipotireoidismo no ventrículo direito. Objetivo: Avaliar, através de ecoDopplercardiograma, a função ventricular direita de portadores de hipotireoidismo em diferentes graus da doença. Métodos: Foram avaliados pacientes com diagnóstico de hipotireoidismo primário, que foram divididos em dois grupos: com TSH pouco elevado ­ até 12 mcUI/mL ­ e TSH muito elevado ­ TSH acima de 12 mcUI/mL. Os pacientes foram submetidos a exames clínico e laboratorial e ecocardiograma transtorácico. Resultados: Dos 18 pacientes submetidos à Ecocardiografia, 10 (55,6%) tinham TSH < 12 mcUI/mL e 8 (44,4%) tinham TSH > 12 mcUI/mL. Não houve diferença entre os dois grupos quanto à função global do ventrículo esquerdo (VE), nem quanto às dimensões das câmaras cardíacas direitas. Quanto às variáveis de função ventricular direita, houve diferença apenas no índice de desempenho miocárdico do VD (IDMVD), que foi mais elevado nos pacientes com TSH > 12 do que nos pacientes com TSH < 12 (0,52 ± 0,13 vs. 0,39 ± 0,08; p < 0,05), indicando uma pior função sistólica global do VD naquele grupo. Não houve diferença entre os grupos em relação às demais variáveis de função sistólica ou diastólica do VD. A resistência vascular pulmonar e a pressão sistólica da artéria pulmonar não diferiram entre os dois grupos. Conclusões: Pacientes com hipotireoidismo com TSH mais elevado apresentaram redução da função ventricular direita global, avaliada pelo IDMVD, mas que não foi observada nos demais parâmetros de função deste ventrículo

Background: After many studies about the left ventricle (LV), little is known about the effect of thyroid hormones deprivation at the right ventricle (RV). Objective: This study was aimed to evaluate the right ventricular function in patients who had hypothyroidism in different degrees of disease severity. Methods: Eighteen patients with primary hypothyroidism were submitted to two-dimensional echocardiography evaluation, of which 10 (55,6%) had TSH < 12 mIU/L (less high TSH group) and 8 (44,4%) had TSH > 12 mIU/L (highest TSH group). Results: By comparing the two groups, there were no differences in respect of LV global systolic function or diastolic function. There was neither difference related to right atrium or RV dimensions. About the right ventricular function, it was shown a difference in the myocardial performance index (Tei index), which was higher in patients who had TSH > 12 compared with patients who had TSH < 12 (0.52 ± 0.13 vs. 0.39 ± 0.08; p < 0.05), indicating worse right ventricular global function in those patients with the highest TSH levels. No differences were observed between these groups related to other variables, which are: percentage of systolic change in the VD area, TAPSE and peak systolic velocity. Variables of RV diastolic function (E/A tricuspid ratio and E/E' tricuspid ratio), as well as pulmonary vascular resistance and pulmonary artery systolic pressure were not different between groups. Conclusion: Patients with hypothyroidism who had the highest TSH levels, as compared to those with less high TSH, presented with a reduction at the overall right ventricular function, evaluated by myocardial performance index, not observed in other parameters of RV function evaluation

Análise da função sistólica ventricular direita em chagásicos através da excursão sistólica da via de saída do ventrículo direito / Analysis of right ventricular systolic function in chagasic patients through the right ventricular outflow tractsystolic excursion

Fundamentos: A excursão sistólica da via de saída do ventrículo direito (ES_VSVD) se mostrou acurada para avaliação da função sistólica do ventrículo direito (VD). Entretanto, a cardiopatia chagásica crônica (CCC) apresenta características próprias, que geram a necessidade de comprovação da aplicabilidade da ES_VSVD nesse grupo. Objetivo: Avaliar a ES_VSVD em portadores de CCC e compará-la com parâmetros tradicionais de avaliação da função sistólica do VD. Métodos: Estudaram-se 131 pacientes com CCC. A ES_VSVD foi calculada através do modo-M na via de saída do VD (VSVD) ao corte paraesternal eixo curto ao nível da valva aórtica, medindo-se a excursão da superfície endocárdica da paredeanterior da VSVD. Foram obtidos a variação fracional da área (FAC) como método de referência e a excursão sistólica do plano anular tricúspide (TAPSE) para comparação. Excluídos 27 pacientes por não obtenção de imagens confiáveis. Resultados: Dos 104 pacientes, 38 apresentaram disfunção do VD definida como FAC menor que 35%. Eles foram divididos em dois grupos em que os primeiros 52 correspondiam aos da curva de aprendizado do método. Nessa série, valores menores que 5,6 mm apresentaram melhor correlação com as anormalidades. Os resultados da ES_VSVD, no grupo de aplicação do método, foram: sensibilidade = 94%, especificidade = 97%, valor preditivo positivo (VP+) = 94%, valor preditivo negativo (VP-) = 97% e acurácia = 96%. A TAPSE apresentou respectivamente 95%, 98%, 97%, 97% e 97%. Conclusão: Os resultados da ES_VSVD nos exames realizados após a curva de aprendizado mostraram sensibilidade, especificidade, VP+, VP- e acurácia semelhantes à TAPSE, demonstrando similaridade dos parâmetros nos pacientes com CCC.

Background: Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Systolic Excursion (RVOT_SE) has proven to be accurate to assess the right ventricular (RV) systolic function. However, chronic Chagas’ heart disease (CCHD) has its own characteristics, which generate the need to prove the RVOT_SE applicability to this group.Objective: To assess RVOT_SE in CCHD patients and compare it against traditional parameters for RV systolic function assessment Methods: 131 CCHD patients were studied. The RVOT_SE was calculated by using M-mode echocardiography, from parasternal short-axis view at aortic valve level, in the RV outflow tract (RVOT), measuring the excursion of the endocardial surface of the posterior wall of the RVOT. The fractional change in area (FCA), as the reference method, and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) for comparison were obtained. 27 patients were excluded for failure to obtain reliable images.Results: Of the 104 patients, 38 had RV dysfunction, defined as FCA less than 35%. They were divided into two groups, where the first 52 patients corresponded to the method learning curve. In this series, values less than 5.6 mm showed better correlation with abnormalities. RVOT_SE results obtained from the method application group were: sensitivity = 94%, specificity = 97%, positive predictive value (PV+) =94%, negative predictive value (PV-) = 97% and accuracy = 96%. TAPSE showed respectively 95%, 98%, 97%, 97% and 97%. Conclusion: RVOT_SE results in the examinations performed after the learning curve showed sensitivity, specificity, PV+, PV- and accuracy similar to those of TAPSE, showing parameters similar to those of CCHD patients.

Estructura y función de ventrículo derecho morfológico y enfrentado a poscarga sistémica / Structure and function of the morphological right ventricle subjected to systemic post-load

INTRODUCCIÓN: durante años se ha subestimado la relevancia de la estructura y función del ventrículo derecho. Ambos ventrículos son diferentes en morfología, ciclo de presiones, resistencias e interdependencia ventricular, por lo que no se pueden extrapolar sus comportamientos. La función ventricular derecha se deteriora por sobrecarga de presión, de volumen, o por la combinación de ambas cuando se enfrenta a la circulación sistémica. OBJETIVO: realizar una revisión actualizada de la estructura, función ventricular, terapéutica y las técnicas de imágenes de uso frecuente para la evaluación ventricular derecha. Para ello se revisaron las bases de datos Medline, PubMed, SciELO y plataforma Springerlink, disponibles desde Infomed; desde el año 2000 hasta 2015, en idioma español e inglés. DESARROLLO: se trata el origen y evolución del ventrículo derecho, su estructura, función y comportamiento de diferentes variables fisiológicas; la valoración de ventrículo derecho enfrentado a la poscarga sistémica, la presencia de muerte súbita y arritmias, así como la evaluación mediante técnicas de imagen y utilidad de la terapia de resincronización cardíaca. CONSIDERACIONES FINALES: ambos ventrículos tienen estructura y función diferentes. La disfunción de ventrículo derecho enfrentado a poscarga sistémica evoluciona en etapas progresivas. Mediante ecocardiografía transtorácica es posible estimar la función sistólica y diastólica ventricular derecha. Es preciso realizar estudios observacionales prospectivos que identifiquen herramientas ecocardiográficas útiles para estratificar a los pacientes desde la etapa subclínica, y trazar estrategias terapéuticas que preserven la función ventricular derecha.

INTRODUCTION: for many years, the relevance of the structure and the function of the right ventricle have been underestimated. Both ventricles are different in morphology, pressure cycles, resistance and ventricular interdependence, so their behaviors cannot be extrapolated. The right ventricular function deteriorates due to pressure overload, volume overload or the combination of both when subjected to the systemic circulation. OBJECTIVE: to make an updated review of the structure and function of ventricle, therapeutics and imaging techniques commonly used to evaluate the right ventricle. To this end, Medline, PubMed, SciELO databases and Springerlink platform, available from Infomed, were reviewed in English and Spanish from 2000 to 2015. DEVELOPMENT: it deals with the origin and evolution of the right ventricle, its structure, function and behavior of several physiological variables; the assessment of the right ventricle subjected to systemic post-load, the presence of sudden death and arrhythmias as well as the evaluation based on imaging techniques and the advantages of cardiac resynchronization therapy. FINAL THOUGHTS: both ventricles have different structures and functions. The dysfunction of the right ventricle subjected to systemic post-load evolves in progressive phases. By means of transthoracic echocardiography, it is possible to estimate the systolic and diastolic function of the right ventricle. It is necessary to perform prospective observational studies that would identify useful echocardiographic tools in order to stratify the patients since the subclinical phase, and then to draw up therapeutic strategies for preservation of the right ventricular function.

Radiofrequency ablation can reverse the structural remodeling caused by frequent premature ventricular contractions originating from the right ventricular outflow tract even in a normal heart

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether frequent premature ventricular contractions originating from the right ventricular outflow tract remodel the cardiac structure and function in patients with a “seemingly normal heart” and whether radiofrequency ablation can reverse this remodeling. METHODS: Sixty-eight patients with idiopathic frequent premature ventricular contractions originating from the right ventricular outflow tract and normal heart structure and function were enrolled in this study. The patients were divided into three groups according to the therapeutic method: radiofrequency ablation group (24 cases), anti-arrhythmia drug group (26 cases), and control group (18 cases without any treatment). Clinical Registration number: ChiCTR-ONRC-12002834 RESULTS: The basic patient characteristics were comparable between the three groups, except for the premature ventricular contraction rate, which was significantly lower in the control group. After six months of follow up, the premature ventricular contraction rate was significantly reduced in the radiofrequency ablation group, which was accompanied by a significant decrease in the following cardiac cavity inner diameters, as determined by echocardiography: right atrium (33.33±3.78 vs. 30.05±2.60 mm, p = 0.001), right ventricle (23.24±2.40 vs. 21.05±2.16 mm, p = 0.020), and left ventricle (44.76±4.33 vs. 41.71±3.44 mm, p = 0.025). These results were similar in the anti-arrhythmia drug group, although this group exhibited a smaller extent of change (right atrium: 33.94±3.25 vs. 31.27±3.11 mm, p = 0.024; right ventricle: 22.97±3.09 vs. 21.64±2.33 mm, p = 0.049; left ventricle: 45.92±6.38 vs. 43.84±5.67 mm, p = 0.039), but not in the control group (p>0.05). There was a tendency toward improvement in the cardiac functions in both the radiofrequency ablation and anti-arrhythmia drug groups. However, ...

Improved relationship between left and right ventricular electrical activation after cardiac resynchronization therapy in heart failure patients can be quantified by body surface potential mapping

OBJECTIVES: Few studies have evaluated cardiac electrical activation dynamics after cardiac resynchronization therapy. Although this procedure reduces morbidity and mortality in heart failure patients, many approaches attempting to identify the responders have shown that 30% of patients do not attain clinical or functional improvement. This study sought to quantify and characterize the effect of resynchronization therapy on the ventricular electrical activation of patients using body surface potential mapping, a noninvasive tool. METHODS: This retrospective study included 91 resynchronization patients with a mean age of 61 years, left ventricle ejection fraction of 28%, mean QRS duration of 182 ms, and functional class III/IV (78%/22%); the patients underwent 87-lead body surface mapping with the resynchronization device on and off. Thirty-six patients were excluded. Body surface isochronal maps produced 87 maximal/mean global ventricular activation times with three regions identified. The regional activation times for right and left ventricles and their inter-regional right-to-left ventricle gradients were calculated from these results and analyzed. The Mann-Whitney U-test and Kruskall-Wallis test were used for comparisons, with the level of significance set at p≤0.05. RESULTS: During intrinsic rhythms, regional ventricular activation times were significantly different (54.5 ms vs. 95.9 ms in the right and left ventricle regions, respectively). Regarding cardiac resynchronization, the maximal global value was significantly reduced (138 ms to 131 ms), and a downward variation of 19.4% in regional-left and an upward variation of 44.8% in regional-right ventricular activation times resulted in a significantly reduced inter-regional gradient (43.8 ms to 17 ms). CONCLUSIONS: Body surface potential mapping in resynchronization patients yielded electrical ventricular ...

Aporte de las imágenes cardiacas a la medicina de emergencia y unidades de pacientes críticos / Utility of cardiac imaging in emergency and critical care patients

El uso de las técnicas de imagenología cardiovascular ha aumentado en forma significativa en los últimos años en todo el espectro de la medicina clínica debido a múltiples avances tecnológicos y a la mayor disponilidad de estas técnicas en todos los niveles de atención. El término de “imágenes cardiacas” se refiere al conjunto de técnicas imagenológicas del corazón y los grandes vasos y comprende desde la ecocardiografía hasta la resonancia magnética, pasando por la tomografía computarizada y medicina nuclear. Cada una de estas técnicas tiene una utilidad definida según el contexto y la situación clínica del paciente. El uso de estas técnicas, especialmente la ecocardiografía, en unidades de emergencia y de pacientes críticos se ha hecho indispensable, dado el alto requerimiento y la rapidez en la toma de decisiones para obtener diagnósticos apropiados y triage de pacientes que presentan patologías cardiovasculares en el menor tiempo posible. En el siguiente artículo describiremos el uso de algunas de las técnicas de imágenes cardiovasculares, su utilidad y ventajas en el diagnóstico y monitorización de los parámetros clínicos y hemodinámicos de pacientes críticos.

In recent years, the use of cardiovascular imaging techniques has increased significantly, across all the spectrum of clinical medicine due to advances in technology and increased availability at all levels of medical care. The term “cardiac imaging” refers to all imaging techniques of the heart and great vessels and ranges from echocardiography, magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and nuclear medicine. Each of these has a value defined by the context and the patient’s clinical situation. Using these techniques, particularly echocardiography, at emergency and critical care units has become indispensable, given the high demand and decision making for appropriate diagnosis and triage of patients with cardiovascular disease in the shortest possible time. In this article we describe the use of some cardiovascular imaging techniques in general both ERs as ICU, its usefulness and advantages in the diagnosis and monitoring of clinical and hemodynamic parameters in critically ill patients.

Dessincronia ventricular e aumento dos níveis de BNP na estimulação apical do ventrículo direito / Ventricular dyssynchrony and increased BNP levels in right ventricular apical pacing / Disincronía ventricular y aumento de los niveles de BNP en la estimulación apical del ventrículo derecho

FUNDAMENTO: A estimulação apical crônica do ventrículo direito pode ocasionar dessincronia ventricular e, secundariamente, alterações neuro-humorais e aumento da morbimortalidade cardíaca. OBJETIVO: Pesquisar dessincronia ventricular e seus efeitos sobre os níveis de BNP em pacientes com marca-passo estimulados cronicamente no ápice do ventrículo direito (VD). MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com 85 pacientes com marca-passo uni ou bicameral, em classe funcional I e II da NYHA e fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) > 35 por cento. A avaliação de dessincronia foi realizada utilizando-se várias técnicas ecocardiográficas, incluindo o Tissue Synchronization Imaging (TSI), com análise dos 12 segmentos. O BNP foi dosado junto com o ecocardiograma, porém com o examinador cego. RESULTADOS: Quarenta e seis mulheres e 39 homens, com idade de 58 ± 12 anos, chagásicos (56 por cento) e hipertensos controlados (62 por cento), foram incluídos. A fração de ejeção do VE foi 52 ± 8 por cento e a duração média do QRS de 139 ms (120-180 ms). O BNP mostrou-se alterado em 36,5 por cento da amostra (ponto de corte de 60 pg/ml). Na análise multivariada de regressão linear, o BNP correlacionou-se com a idade (p = 0,024), FEVE (p < 0,0001) e tempo pré-ejetivo do VE (p = 0,009), que é índice de dessincronia intraventricular. CONCLUSÃO: Em pacientes com estimulação cardíaca convencional, estáveis clinicamente, a dessincronia intraventricular foi um preditor independente do aumento dos níveis de BNP, após ajuste pela idade e FEVE.

BACKGROUND: Long-term right ventricular apical pacing can cause ventricular dyssynchrony and, secondarily, neurohumoral alterations and increase in cardiac morbimortality. OBJECTIVE: To analyze ventricular dyssynchrony and its effects on BNP levels in patients with pacemakers and long-term right ventricular (RV) apex pacing. METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 85 patients with single or dual chamber pacemaker, NYHA functional class I or II and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 35 percent. The dyssynchrony assessment was carried out using several echocardiographic techniques, including Tissue Synchronization Imaging (TSI), with the analysis of the 12 segments. BNP was measured at the same time when the echocardiogram was performed, but the examiner was blinded to the results. RESULTS: Forty-six women and 39 men, aged 58 ± 12 years, with Chagas' disease (56 percent) and controlled hypertensive individuals (62 percent), were included in the study. LVEF was 52 ± 8 percent and the mean QRS duration was 139 ms (120-180 ms). BNP levels were altered in 36.5 percent of the sample (cutoff = 60 pg/ml). At the multivariate linear regression analysis, BNP was correlated with age (p = 0.024), LVEF (p < 0.0001) and left ventricular (LV) pre-ejection time (p = 0.009), which is an intraventricular dyssynchrony index. CONCLUSION: In clinically stable patients receiving conventional cardiac pacing, the intraventricular dyssynchrony was an independent predictor of BNP level increase after adjusted for age and LVEF.

FUNDAMENTO: La estimulación apical crónica del ventrículo derecho puede ocasionar disincronía ventricular y, secundariamente, alteraciones neurohumorales y aumento de la morbimortalidad cardíaca. OBJETIVO: Investigar disincronía ventricular y sus efectos sobre los niveles de BNP en pacientes con marcapasos estimulados crónicamente en el ápice del ventrículo derecho (VD). MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal con 85 pacientes con marcapasos uni o bicameral, en clase funcional I y II de la NYHA y fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo (FEVI) > 35 por ciento. La evaluación de disincronía fue realizada utilizando varias técnicas ecocardiográficas, incluyendo el Tissue Synchronization Imaging (TSI), con análisis de los 12 segmentos. El BNP fue dosado junto con el ecocardiograma, aunque con el examinador ciego. RESULTADOS: Cuarenta y seis mujeres y 39 hombres, con edad de 58 ± 12 años, chagásicos (56 por ciento) e hipertensos controlados (62 por ciento), fueron incluidos. La fracción de eyección del VI fue 52 ± 8 por ciento y la duración media del QRS de 139 ms (120-180 ms). El BNP se mostró alterado en 36,5 por ciento de la muestra (punto de corte de 60 pg/ml). En el análisis multivariado de regresión lineal, el BNP se correlacionó con la edad (p = 0,024), FEVI (p < 0,0001) y tiempo pre-eyectivo del VI (p = 0,009), que es índice de disincronía intraventricular. CONCLUSIÓN: En pacientes con estimulación cardíaca convencional, estables clínicamente, la disincronía intraventricular fue un predictor independiente del aumento de los niveles de BNP, después de ajuste por edad y FEVI.

Indice de captación de 99mTc-MIBI en el ventrículo derecho como marcador indirecto de isquemia en los estudios de perfusión miocárdica / Right ventricular uptake index of 99mTc-MIBI in myocardial perfusion studies

Se describe un nuevo método para cuantificar la captación relativa del ventrículo derecho en los estudios de perfusión miocárdica. Se demuestra que el índice de captación propuesto está en relación con el grado de isquemia miocárdica en el ventrículo izquierdo.

A new method for quantification of relative right ventricular uptake in myocardial perfusion Studies is described. A direct relationship between the proposed uptake index and the degree of left ventricular myocardial ischemia is demonstrated.

Efeitos da estimulação ventricular convencional em pacientes com função ventricular normal / Efectos de la estimulación ventricular convencional en pacientes con función ventricular normal / Conventional ventricular stimulation effects on patients with normal ventricular function

FUNDAMENTO: A estimulação de ventrículo direito pode ser deletéria em pacientes com disfunção ventricular, entretanto há poucas evidências sobre o impacto dessa estimulação em pacientes com função normal. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a evolução clínica e laboratorial de pacientes com função ventricular normal submetidos a implante de marcapasso cardíaco artificial. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados de forma prospectiva 16 pacientes com os seguintes critérios de inclusão: função ventricular normal definida pelo ecocardiograma e presença de estimulação ventricular superior 90 por cento (avaliação por telemetria do gerador). Parâmetros analisados: classe funcional (CF), teste de caminhada, dosagem de BNP, ecocardiograma (convencional e parâmetros de dessincronia intraventricular e teste de qualidade de vida (SF36). Essas medidas fora feitas com 10 dias(d) (t1), 120d(t2) e 240 d(t3). Os dados foram comparados ao longo do tempo segundo método ANOVA. Comparações múltiplas de médias foram efetuadas utilizando-se o método de Tukey. RESULTADOS: Dos dados avaliados os seguintes não apresentaram variação estatística significante (p>0,05): classe funcional, dosagem de BNP, parâmetros ecocardiográficos convencionais, dessincronia intraventricular (Doppler tecidual). Apresentaram piora (p<0,05) o teste de caminhada (entre t2 e t3) e o tempo entre a contração septal e a parede posterior do ventrículo esquerdo, porém sem preencher critérios de dessincronia. Avaliação de qualidade de vida (SF36) mostrou melhora na capacidade funcional, nos aspectos sociais e estado geral de saúde. CONCLUSÃO: Após oito meses, em pacientes com função normal não foram evidenciadas alterações clínicas (CF e SF 36) e laboratoriais (ecocardiografia convencional, parâmetros de dessincronia e dosagem de BNP); entretanto, houve piora no teste de caminhada.

BACKGROUND: The stimulation of the right ventricle (RV) may be deleterious in patients with ventricular dysfunction; however there is little evidence about the impact of this stimulation in patients with normal ventricular function. OBJECTIVES: To assess the clinical and laboratory evolution of patients with normal ventricular function submitted to implant of artificial cardiac pacemaker (PM). METHODS: 16 patients enrolled according to the following inclusion criteria: normal ventricular function defined by echocardiogram and presence of upper ventricular stimulation > 90 percent (generator telemetry assessment) submitted to a PM implant were prospectively studied. The following parameters were assessed: Functional Class (FC), walk test, BNP levels, echocardiography evaluation (conventional and intraventricular dyssynchrony) and quality of life test (SF36). The patients were assessed after 10 (t1), 120 (t2) and 240 days (t3). Data was compared throughout time according to ANOVA. Multiple comparisons of means were performed through Tukey's test. RESULTS: Among the assessed data, the following did not present significant statistic variation (p> 0.05): functional class, BNP levels, conventional echocardiographic parameters, intraventricular dyssynchrony (tissue Doppler). The walk test (between t2 and t3) and the time between septal contraction and LV posterior wall showed worsening (p<0.05), although they did not meet the dyssynchrony criteria. The quality of life assessment (SF36) showed improvement in the functional capacity, social aspects, and general status sub-items. CONCLUSION: After 8 months, patients with normal ventricular function did not show clinical (FC and SF36) or laboratory alterations (conventional echocardiography, dyssynchrony parameters and BNP levels); however, there was a worsening in the walk test.

FUNDAMENTO: La estimulación del ventrículo derecho puede ser dañosa a pacientes con disfunción ventricular. Sin embargo, hay pocas evidencias sobre el impacto de esa estimulación en pacientes con función normal. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la evolución clínica y laboratorial de pacientes con función ventricular normal sometidos a implante de marcapaso cardíaco artificial. MÉTODOS: Se estudiaron de forma prospectiva a 16 pacientes con los siguientes criterios de inclusión: función ventricular normal definida por el ecocardiograma y presencia de estimulación ventricular superior a 90 por ciento (evaluación por telemetría del generador). Parámetros analizados: clase funcional (CF), test de marcha, dosificación de BNP, ecocardiograma (convencional y parámetros de desincronía intraventricular y prueba de calidad de vida (SF36). Esas mediciones se hicieron con 10 días(d) (t1), 120d(t2) y 240 d(t3). Los datos se compararon a lo largo del tiempo según el método ANOVA. Comparaciones múltiples de promedios se efectuaron utilizándose el método de Tukey. RESULTADOS: Desde los datos evaluados, los siguientes no presentaron variación estadística significante (p>0,05): clase funcional, dosificación de BNP, parámetros ecocardiográficos convencionales, desincronía intraventricular (Doppler tisular). Presentaron empeoramiento (p<0,05) el test de marcha (entre t2 y t3) tiempo entre la contratación septal y la pared posterior del ventrículo izquierdo, pero sin atender a criterios de desincronía. La evaluación de calidad de vida (SF36) evidenció mejora en la capacidad funcional, en los aspectos sociales y en el estado general de salud. CONCLUSIÓN: Tras ocho meses en pacientes con función normal no se evidenciaron alteraciones clínicas (CF y SF 36) y laboratoriales (ecocardiografía convencional, parámetros de desincronía y dosificación de BNP); no obstante, hubo empeoramiento en el test de marcha.

Correlação do colágeno intersticial miocárdico do septo do ventrículo direito com a função ventricular em pacientes com cardiomiopatia isquêmica / Correlación del colágeno intersticial miocárdico del septo del ventrículo derecho con la función ventricular en pacientes con cardiomiopatía isquémica / Correlation of myocardial interstitial collagen in the right ventricular septum with ventricular function of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy

FUNDAMENTO: O conteúdo de colágeno intersticial (CI) no miocárdio exerce influência no relaxamento e na contração ventricular. A sua relação com a função ventricular em pacientes (pcts) com cardiomiopatia isquêmica (CMPI) não está plenamente estudada em humanos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a relação da quantidade de CI nas áreas não-infartadas no septo do ventrículo direito com a função ventricular na CMPI. MÉTODOS: 31pcts com doença arterial coronariana foram classificados em quatro grupos: Grupo C (Controle): 7pcts com as frações de ejeção dos ventrículos esquerdo (FEVE) e direito (FEVD) normais; Grupo 1: 5 pcts com FEVD < 40 por cento;Grupo 2: 9 pcts com FEVE < 40 por cento; Grupo 3: 10 pcts com disfunção de ambos os ventrículos. A FEVD e a FEVE foram calculadas por meio da angiocardiografia radionuclídica. As amostras para análise do por centoCI foram obtidas por meio de biópsia endomiocárdica do ventrículo direito e coradas pela técnica do picrosirius red. RESULTADOS: A média do por centoCI foi significativamente maior no grupo 3 quando comparada com o grupo-c e com os grupos 1 e 2 (30,2 ± 7,9 por cento vs. 6,8 ± 3,3 por cento vs. 15,8 ± 4,1 por cento vs. 17,5 ± 7,7 por cento, respectivamente; p = 0,0001). O por centoCI foi também significativamente maior nos pacientes do grupo 2 quando comparado com o controle(17,5 ± 7,7 por cento vs. 6,8 ± 3,3 por cento, p = 0.0001). O por centoCI apresentou correlação inversa com a FEVD (r = -0,50, p = 0.003) e FEVE (r = -0,70, p = 0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Na CMPI, o por centoCI encontra-se elevado nas áreas não-infartadas no septo do ventrículo direito e apresenta correlação inversa com o a função ventricular direita e esquerda.

BACKGROUND: Myocardial collagen content influences ventricular relaxation, contraction, and morphology. Its relationship with ventricular function in patients (Pts) with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICMP) has not yet been fully studied in humans. OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between interstitial collagen content in non-infarcted areas of the right ventricular septum and ventricular function in ICMP. METHODS: 31 pts with coronary artery disease were divided into four groups as follows:The control group consisted of 7 pts with normal left (LVEF) and right (RVEF) ventricular ejection fraction (group C); Group 1: 5 patients with RVEF < 40 percent; Group 2: 9 pts with LVEF < 40 percent; and Group 3, 10 pts with biventricular dysfunction. RVEF and LVEF were measured by radionuclide angiography. For quantitative analysis of interstitial collagen volume fraction (CVF), endomyocardial biopsy specimens were taken from the right ventricle and stained with picrosirius red. RESULTS: Mean CVF was significantly higher in group 3, compared with the control group and with groups 1 and 2 (30.2 ± 7.9 percent vs. 6.8 ± 3.3 percent vs. 15.8 ± 4.1 percent vs. 17.5±7.7 percent, respectively; p =0.0001). It was also significantly higher in patients belonging to group 2, compared with those in the control group (17.5 ± 7.7 percent vs. 6.8 ± 3.3 percent, p =0.0001). CVF was inversely correlated with RVEF (r = - 0.50, p = 0.003) and LVEF (r = -0.70, p = 0.0001). CONCLUSION: In ICMP, CVF is elevated in non-infarcted areas of the right ventricular septum and inversely correlated with right and left ventricular function.

FUNDAMENTO: El contenido de colágeno intersticial (CI) en el miocardio ejerce influencia en la relajación y en la contracción ventricular. Su relación con la función ventricular en pacientes (pcts) con cardiomiopatía isquémica (CMPI) no está plenamente estudiada en humanos. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la relación de la cantidad de CI en las áreas no infartadas en el septo del ventrículo derecho con la función ventricular en la CMPI. MÉTODOS: Se clasificaron a 31 pcts con enfermedad arterial coronaria en cuatro grupos: Grupo C (Control): 7 pcts con fracción de eyección de los ventrículos izquierdo (FEVI) y derecho (FEVD) normales; Grupo 1:5 pcts con FEVD < 40 por ciento; Grupo 2:9 pcts con FEVI < 40 por ciento; Grupo 3:10 pcts con disfunción de ambos los ventrículos. La FEVD y la FEVI se calcularon por medio de la angiocardiografía con radionúclidos. Las muestras para análisis del porcentaje de colágeno intersticial ( por cientoCI) se obtuvieron mediante biopsia endomiocárdica del ventrículo derecho y se colorearon con la técnica del picrosirius red. RESULTADOS: El promedio del por cientoCI fue significativamente mayor en el grupo 3 cuando comparado al grupo-c y a los grupos 1 y 2 (30,2 ± 7,9 por ciento vs. 6,8 ± 3,3 por ciento vs. 15,8 ± 4,1 por ciento vs. 17,5 ± 7,7 por ciento, respectivamente; p = 0,0001). El por cientoCI fue asimismo significativamente mayor en los pacientes del grupo 2 cuando comparado al control (17,5 ± 7,7 por ciento vs. 6,8 ± 3,3 por ciento, p = 0.0001). El por cientoCI presentó correlación inversa con la FEVD (r = -0,50, p = 0.003) y la FEVI (r = -0,70, p = 0,0001). CONCLUSIÓN: En la CMPI, el por cientoCI se encuentra elevado en las áreas no infartadas en el septo del ventrículo derecho y presenta correlación inversa con la función ventricular derecha e izquierda.

Bandagem reversível do tronco pulmonar IV: análise da hipertrofia aguda do ventrículo direito em modelo experimental de sobrecarga intermitente / IV Pulmonary trunk reversible banding: analysis of right ventricle acute hypertrophy in an intermittent loading experimental model

OBJETIVO: A bandagem ajustável do tronco pulmonar (TP) pode proporcionar treinamento ventricular mais fisiológico para cirurgia de Jatene em dois estágios. Este estudo experimental analisa a hipertrofia aguda (96 horas) do ventrículo direito (VD) submetido à sobrecarga sistólica intermitente. MÉTODOS: Cinco grupos de sete cabritos jovens foram dispostos conforme o tempo de sobrecarga sistólica do VD (0, 24, 48, 72 e 96 horas). O grupo zero hora funcionou como grupo controle. Avaliações ecocardiográficas e hemodinâmicas foram feitas diariamente. Os animais foram sacrificados para avaliação do conteúdo de água e pesagem das massas cardíacas. RESULTADOS: Houve aumento da espessura do VD a partir de 48 horas de treinamento (p<0,05) e rebaixamento da fração de ejeção do VD, com dilatação importante desta câmara nas primeiras 24 horas do protocolo, recuperando-se posteriormente. Houve aumento da relação volume/massa nas primeiras 24 horas do protocolo, em relação ao momento 96 horas (p=0,003). A massa do VD apresentou aumento de 104,7 por cento no grupo 96 horas em relação ao controle. Não houve diferença quanto ao conteúdo de água do VD. A média diária de aumento da massa do VD foi de 21,6 por cento ± 26,8 por cento. A taxa de ganho de massa muscular do VD para todo o período de estudo foi de 0,084 g/h ± 0,035 g/h. CONCLUSÃO: O protocolo de bandagem intermitente do TP permitiu ganho de massa muscular do VD, significativa no grupo de 96 horas de estudo. Esta hipertrofia não foi acompanhada de aumento no conteúdo de água, o que sugere maior síntese protéica nos tecidos cardíacos.

OBJECTIVES: Adjustable pulmonary trunk (PT) banding device may induce a more physiologic ventricle retraining for the two-stage Jatene operation. This experimental study evaluates the acute hypertrophy (96 hours) of the right ventricle (RV) submitted to an intermittent pressure overload. METHODS: Five groups of seven young goats were distributed according to RV intermittent systolic overload duration (0, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours). The zero-hour group served as a control group. Echocardiographic and hemodynamic evaluations were performed daily. After completing the training program for each group, the animals were sacrificed for water content and cardiac masses evaluation. RESULTS: There was a significant increase in RV free wall thickness starting with the 48-hour group (p<0.05). However, a decreased RV ejection fraction, associated with an important RV dilation and a significant increase in the RV volume to mass ratio was observed at 24-hour training period, when compared to 96-hour period (p=0.003), with subsequent recovery throughout the protocol. A 104.7 percent increase in RV mass was observed in the 96-hour group, as compared to the control group, with no differences in water content between these two groups. The daily mean increase in RV mass during the study period was 21.6 percent ± 26.8 percent. The rate of RV mass acquisition for the overall study period of intermittent systolic overload was 0.084 g/h ± 0.035 g/h. CONCLUSION: Intermittent PT banding has allowed a significant RV mass acquisition in the 96-hour trained group. No myocardial water content changes were observed in this group, suggesting an increased myocardial protein synthesis.