Clustering of patients with inconclusive non-invasive stress testing referred for vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance.

BACKGROUND: Inconclusive non-invasive stress testing is associated with impaired outcome. This population is very heterogeneous, and its characteristics are not well depicted by conventional methods. AIMS: To identify patient subgroups by phenotypic unsupervised clustering, integrating clinical and cardiovascular magnetic resonance data to unveil pathophysiological differences between subgroups of patients with inconclusive stress tests. METHODS: Between 2008 and 2020, consecutive patients with a first inconclusive non-invasive stress test referred for stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (defined as cardiovascular death or myocardial infarction). A cluster analysis was performed on clinical and cardiovascular magnetic resonance variables. RESULTS: Of 1402 patients (67% male; mean age 70±11years) who completed the follow-up (median 6.5years, interquartile range 5.6-7.5years), 197 experienced major adverse cardiovascular events (14.1%). Three distinct phenogroups were identified based upon unsupervised hierarchical clustering of principal components: phenogroup 1=history of percutaneous coronary intervention with viable myocardial infarction and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction; phenogroup 2=atrial fibrillation with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction; and phenogroup 3=coronary artery bypass graft with non-viable myocardial scar and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. Using survival analysis, the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (P=0.007), cardiovascular mortality (P=0.002) and all-cause mortality (P<0.001) differed among the three phenogroups. Phenogroup 3 presented the worse prognosis. In each phenogroup, ischaemia was associated with major adverse cardiovascular events (phenogroup 1: hazard ratio 2.79, 95% confidence interval 1.61-4.84; phenogroup 2: hazard ratio 2.59, 95% confidence interval 1.69-3.97; phenogroup 3: hazard ratio 3.16, 95% confidence interval 1.82-5.49; all P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Cluster analysis of clinical and cardiovascular magnetic resonance variables identified three phenogroups of patients with inconclusive stress testing, with distinct prognostic profiles.

Additional prognostic value of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance for cardiovascular risk stratification after a cryptogenic ischemic stroke.

Background: One-third of ischemic strokes are "cryptogenic" without clearly identified etiology. Although coronary artery disease (CAD) is the main cause of death after stroke, the interest in CAD screening in patients with cryptogenic stroke is still debated. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the incremental prognostic value of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) beyond traditional risk factors for predicting cardiovascular events in patients with a prior cryptogenic ischemic stroke. Materials and methods: Between 2008 and 2021, consecutive patients with prior cryptogenic strokes referred for stress CMR were included and followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), defined by cardiovascular death or non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI). Univariable and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of unrecognized MI and silent ischemia. Results: Of 542 patients (55.2% male, mean age 71.4 ± 8.8 years) who completed the follow-up (median 5.9 years), 66 (12.2%) experienced MACE. Silent ischemia and unrecognized MI were detected in 18 and 17% of patients, respectively. Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, silent ischemia and unrecognized MI were associated with the occurrence of MACE [hazard ratio, HR: 8.43 (95% CI: 5.11-13.9); HR: 7.87 (95% CI: 4.80-12.9), respectively, p < 0.001]. In multivariable analysis, silent ischemia and unrecognized MI were independent predictors of MACE [HR: 8.08 (95% CI: 4.21-15.5); HR: 6.65 (95% CI: 3.49-12.7), respectively, p < 0.001]. After adjustment, stress CMR findings showed the best improvement in model discrimination and reclassification above traditional risk factors (C-statistic improvement: 0.13; NRI = 0.428; IDI = 0.048). Conclusion: In patients with prior cryptogenic stroke, stress CMR findings have an incremental prognostic value to predict MACE over traditional risk factors.

Long-term prognostic value of ischaemia and cardiovascular magnetic resonance-related revascularization for stable coronary disease, irrespective of patient's sex: a large retrospective study.

AIMS: To assess the sex-specific, long-term prognostic value of myocardial ischaemia induced by stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and early CMR-related revascularization in consecutive patients from a large registry. METHODS AND RESULTS: Between 2008 and 2010, all consecutive patients referred for stress CMR were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined by cardiovascular mortality or recurrent non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI). Early CMR-related revascularization was defined as any revascularization within 90 days after CMR. Among 3664 patients (56.9% male, mean age 69.9 ± 11.8 years), 472 (12.9%) had MACE (163 women and 309 men) after a median follow-up of 8.8 (IQR 6.9-9.5) years. Inducible ischaemia and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) by CMR were associated with MACE in women and men (all P < 0.001). In multivariable Cox regression, inducible ischaemia, LGE, and CMR-related revascularization were independent predictors of MACE both in women [heart rate (HR) 4.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.17-9.10; HR 1.82, 95% CI 1.22-2.71; HR 0.71, 95% CI 0.54-0.92, respectively; all P < 0.001] and men (HR 3.88, 95% CI 2.33-5.98; HR 1.48, 95% CI 1.16-1.89; HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.65-0.97, respectively; all P < 0.001). The addition of CMR-parameters led to improved model discrimination for MACE (C-statistic 0.61 vs. 0.71; NRI = 0.212; IDI = 0.032) for both women and men. CMR-related revascularization was associated with a lower incidence of MACE in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF)<50%. CONCLUSION: Inducible ischaemia and early CMR-related revascularization were good long-term predictors of MACE irrespective of sex. CMR-related revascularization was associated with a lower MACE incidence in the sole sub-set of patients with LVEF < 50%.

Long-Term Prognostic Value of Stress CMR in Patients With Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction.

OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to investigate the long-term prognostic value of inducible myocardial ischemia assessed by vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients with HFpEF. BACKGROUND: Some studies suggest that ischemia could play a key role in HF in patients with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). METHODS: Between 2008 and 2019, consecutive patients prospectively referred for stress CMR with HFpEF as defined by current guidelines, without known coronary artery disease (CAD), were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), as defined by cardiovascular mortality or nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI). Secondary composite outcomes included cardiovascular mortality or hospitalization for acute HF. Cox regression analysis was performed to determine the prognostic value of inducible ischemia or late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) by CMR. RESULTS: Among the 1,203 patients with HFpEF (73 ± 13 years of age; 29% males) who underwent stress CMR and completed follow-up (6.9 years interquartile range [IQR]: 6.7 to 7.7 years]), 108 experienced a MACE (9%). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed inducible ischemia and LGE were significantly associated with MACE (HR: 6.63; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.54 to 9.69; and HR: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.60 to 4.09, respectively; both p < 0.001) and secondary outcomes (HR: 8.40; 95% CI: 6.31 to 11.20; p < 0.001; and HR: 1.87; 95% CI: 1.27 to 2.76, respectively; p = 0.002). In multivariate analysis, inducible ischemia and LGE were independent predictors of MACE (HR: 6.10; 95% CI: 4.14 to 9.00; p < 0.001 and HR: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.06 to 2.49; p = 0.039; respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Stress CMR-inducible myocardial ischemia and LGE have accurate discriminative long-term prognostic value in HFpEF patients without known CAD to predict the occurrence of MACE.

Vasodilatation stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging: Feasibility, workflow and safety in a large prospective registry of more than 35,000 patients.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) is an accurate technique for assessing ventricular function, myocardial perfusion and viability; its development remains limited mainly because of logistical and time constraints. Data regarding optimization of a dedicated stress CMR workflow are needed. AIMS: This study aimed to describe the optimization of a dedicated workflow, and to assess the feasibility and safety of stress CMR in a large registry of>35,000 patients. METHODS: A large single-centre French registry of vasodilator stress CMR included consecutive patients referred between 2008 and 2019 for the detection of inducible ischaemia. Stress CMR was performed at 1.5 Tesla using dipyridamole. Clinical and demographic data, test quality, CMR findings, haemodynamic data and complications were recorded prospectively. A locally optimized workflow was described and evaluated. RESULTS: Among the 35,862 patients referred for vasodilator stress CMR (mean age 68.9±11.8 years; 64.1% male), the stress CMR protocol was completed in 35,013 (97.6%) patients; 144 (0.3%) patients with missing baseline data were excluded. The mean examination duration was 27±5min, with image quality optimal in 90.8%, suboptimal in 7.1% and poor in 0.5% of cases. Images were diagnostic in 97.9% of patients. No patients died during or immediately after CMR. Fifty-six (0.16%) patients had severe complications. The incidence of non-severe complications was low (1.5%), whereas minor symptoms occurred frequently (35.5%). The presence of ischaemia was associated with a higher incidence of severe complications, non-severe complications and minor symptoms (all P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This single-centre prospective registry of>35,000 referral patients with known or suspected CAD showed that stress CMR was feasible in clinical routine practice, with high diagnostic image quality and an excellent safety profile. Inducible ischaemia was associated with severe complications, non-severe complications and minor symptoms.

Prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance after inconclusive stress testing.

BACKGROUND: While current guidelines recommend noninvasive testing to detect coronary artery disease, stress tests are deemed inconclusive in a quarter of cases. The strategy for risk stratification after inconclusive stress testing is not well standardized. To assess the prognostic value of vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) parameters and CMR-based coronary revascularization in patients after inconclusive stress testing. METHODS: Between 2008 and 2020, consecutive patients with a first non-CMR inconclusive stress test referred for vasodilator stress perfusion CMR were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined by cardiovascular death or nonfatal myocardial infarction. CMR-related coronary revascularization was defined as any revascularisation occurring within 90 days after CMR. Univariable and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of each parameter. RESULTS: Of 1563 patients who completed the CMR protocol, 1402 patients (66.7% male, 69.5 ± 11.0 years) completed the follow-up (median [interquartile range], 6.5 [5.6-7.5] years); 197 experienced a MACE (14.1%). Vasodilator stress CMR was well tolerated without severe adverse events. Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, inducible ischemia and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were significantly associated with the occurrence of MACE (hazard ratio, HR: 2.88 [95% CI 2.18-3.81]; and HR: 1.46 [95% CI 1.16-1.89], both p < 0.001; respectively). In multivariable Cox regression, the presence and extent of inducible ischemia were independent predictors of a higher incidence of MACE (HR: 2.53 [95% CI 1.89-3.40]; and HR: 1.58 [95% CI 1.47-1.71]; both p < 0.001; respectively). After adjustment, the extent of inducible ischemia showed the best improvement in model discrimination above traditional risk factors (C-statistic 0.75 [95% CI 0.69-0.81] with C-statistic improvement: 0.12). The study suggested no benefit of CMR-related coronary revascularization in reducing MACE. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with a first non-CMR inconclusive stress test, vasodilator stress CMR has good prognostic value to predict MACE offering an incremental prognostic value over traditional risk factors.

Prognostic Value of Vasodilator Stress Perfusion Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance in Patients With Prior Myocardial Infarction.

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to assess the incremental prognostic value of vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients with prior myocardial infarction (MI). BACKGROUND: Recurrent MI is a major cause of mortality and morbidity among MI survivors. METHODS: Between 2008 and 2019, consecutive patients with prior MI referred for stress CMR were followed up for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined by cardiovascular mortality or recurrent nonfatal MI. Uni- and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of inducible ischemia and the extent of myocardial scar. RESULTS: Among 1,594 patients with prior MI and myocardial scar on CMR, 1,401 (92%) (68.2 ± 11.0 years; 61.4% men) completed the follow-up (median: 6.2 years), and 205 had MACE (14.6%). Patients without inducible ischemia experienced a lower annual rate of MACE (3.1%) than those with 1-2 (4.9%), 3-5 (21.5%), or ≥6 segments of ischemia (45.7%) (all p < 0.01). Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, the presence of inducible ischemia and the extent of scar were associated with MACE (hazard ratio [HR]:3.52; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.67 to 4.65 and HR: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.53 to 2.18, respectively; both p < 0.001). In multivariable stepwise Cox regression, the presence of ischemia and the extent of scar were independent predictors of MACE (HR: 2.84; 95% CI: 2.14 to 3.78 and HR: 1.57; 95% CI: 1.44 to 1.72, respectively; both p < 0.001). These findings were significant in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. The addition of CMR parameters to the model including traditional risk factors resulted in a better discrimination for MACE (C-statistic: 0.76 vs. 0.62). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with prior MI, vasodilator stress CMR has independent and incremental prognostic value over traditional risk factors.

Long-Term Prognostic Value of Stress Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance in Patients With History of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention.

BACKGROUND: Recurrence of cardiovascular events remains a substantial cause of mortality and morbidity among patients with previous coronary revascularization. The aim was to assess the prognostic value of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) parameters in patients with history of percutaneous coronary intervention. METHODS: Between 2011 and 2014, consecutive patients with history of percutaneous coronary intervention referred for stress perfusion CMR were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), defined by cardiovascular death or nonfatal myocardial infarction. Patients with prior coronary artery bypass graft were excluded. Univariable and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of each parameter. RESULTS: Of 1762 patients who completed the CMR protocol, 1624 patients (81.7% male, mean age 67.9±10.4 years) completed the follow-up (median [interquartile range], 6.7 [5.6-7.3] years); 244 experienced a MACE (15.0%). Stress CMR was well tolerated. Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, inducible ischemia and late gadolinium enhancement were significantly associated with the occurrence of MACE (hazard ratio, 2.70 [95% CI, 2.11-3.46], P<0.001; and hazard ratio: 1.52 [95% CI, 1.16-1.99], P=0.002; respectively). In multivariable Cox regression, inducible ischemia and late gadolinium enhancement were independent predictors of a higher incidence of MACE (hazard ratio, 2.79 [95% CI, 2.16-3.60]; P<0.001 and hazard ratio, 1.41 [95% CI, 1.04-1.90], P=0.032; respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Inducible ischemia and late gadolinium enhancement assessed by stress CMR were independently associated with MACE in patients with history of percutaneous coronary intervention.

Prognostic value of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance in asymptomatic patients without known coronary artery disease.

OBJECTIVES: A few studies suggest a significant prognostic value of silent myocardial ischaemia detected in asymptomatic patients. However, the current guidelines do not recommend stress testing in asymptomatic individuals. To assess the long-term prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in asymptomatic individuals without known coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS: Between 2009 and 2011, a retrospective cohort study with a median follow-up of 9.2 years (interquartile range: 7.8-9.6) included 1,027 consecutive asymptomatic individuals with ≥ 2 cardiovascular risk factors but without known known CAD referred for stress CMR. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) included cardiovascular mortality and nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI). RESULTS: Among 1,027 asymptomatic subjects, 903 (87.9%) (mean age 70.6 ± 12.4 years and 46.2% males) completed the follow-up, and 91 had MACE (10.1%). Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, silent ischaemia and unrecognised MI were associated with MACE (hazard ratio [HR]: 8.70; 95% CI: 5.79-13.10 and HR: 3.40; 95% CI: 2.15-5.38, respectively; both p < 0.001). In multivariable stepwise Cox regression, silent ischaemia and unrecognised MI were independent predictors of MACE (HR: 6.66; 95% CI 4.41-9.23; and HR: 2.42; 95% CI 1.23-3.21, respectively; both p < 0.001). The addition of silent ischaemia and unrecognised MI led to improved model discrimination for MACE (change in C statistic from 0.66 to 0.82; NRI = 0.497; IDI = 0.070). CONCLUSIONS: Silent ischaemia and unrecognised MI are good long-term predictors for the incidence of MACE in selected asymptomatic individuals with multiple risk factors and without known CAD. These stress CMR parameters have incremental long-term prognostic value to predict MACE over traditional risk factors. KEY POINTS: • Silent ischaemia and unrecognised myocardial infarction defined by stress CMR are good long-term predictors of cardiovascular events in asymptomatic individuals without known coronary artery disease. • The addition of stress cardiac MR imaging led to improved model discrimination for cardiovascular events over traditional risk factors in this specific population.

Long-term prognostic value of stress perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance in patients without known coronary artery disease.

BACKGROUND: To assess the incremental long-term prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients without known coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS: Between 2010 and 2011, consecutive patients with cardiovascular risk factors without known CAD referred for stress CMR were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), defined by cardiovascular mortality or recurrent non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI). Uni- and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of ischemia and unrecognized MI defined by sub-endocardial or transmural late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). RESULTS: Among 2,295 patients without known CAD, 2058 (89.7%) (71.2 ± 12.5 years; 37.5% males) completed the follow-up (median [IQR]: 8.3 [7.3-8.7] years), and 203 had MACE (9.9%). Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, ischemia and unrecognized MI were associated with MACE (hazard ratio, HR: 4.64 95% CI: 3.69-6.17 and HR: 2.88; 95% CI: 2.08-3.99, respectively; both p < 0.001). In multivariable stepwise Cox regression, ischemia and unrecognized MI were independent predictors of MACE (HR = 3.71; 95% CI 2.73-5.05, p < 0.001 and HR = 1.73; 95% CI 1.22-2.45, p = 0.002; respectively) and cardiovascular mortality (HR: 3.13; 95% CI: 2.17-4.51, p < 0.001 and HR = 1.73; 95% CI 1.15-2.62, p = 0.009; respectively). The addition of ischemia and unrecognized MI led to an improved model discrimination for MACE (change in C statistic from 0.61 to 0.72; NRI = 0.431; IDI = 0.053). CONCLUSIONS: Inducible ischemia and unrecognized MI identified by stress CMR have incremental long term prognostic value for the incidence of MACE in patients without known CAD over traditional risk factors and left ventricular ejection fraction.

Prognostic value of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance in asymptomatic patients with known coronary artery disease.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have established the prognostic value of vasodilator stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in broad population of patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD), but this specific population of asymptomatic patients with known CAD have never been formally evaluated. To assess the long-term prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion CMR in asymptomatic patients with obstructive CAD. METHODS: Between 2009 and 2011, consecutive asymptomatic patients with obstructive CAD referred for vasodilator stress CMR were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined by cardiovascular mortality or recurrent non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI). Uni- and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of myocardial ischemia and myocardial infarction defined by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) with ischemic pattern. RESULTS: Among 1529 asymptomatic patients with obstructive CAD, 1342 (87.8%; 67.7 ± 10.5 years, 82.0% males) completed the follow-up (median 8.3 years), and 195 had MACE (14.5%). Patients without stress-induced myocardial ischemia had a low annualized rate of MACE (2.4%), whereas the annualized rate of MACE was higher for patients with mild, moderate, or severe ischemia (7.3%, 16.8%, and 42.2%, respectively; ptrend < 0.001). Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, myocardial ischemia and LGE were associated with MACE (hazard ratio, HR 2.52; 95% CI 1.90-3.34 and HR 2.04; 95% CI 1.38-3.03, respectively; both p < 0.001). In multivariable stepwise Cox regression, myocardial ischemia and LGE were independent predictors of MACE (HR 2.80 95% CI 2.10-3.73, p < 0.001 and HR 1.51; 95% CI 1.01-2.27, p = 0.045; respectively). The addition of myocardial ischemia and LGE led to improved model discrimination for MACE (change in C statistic from 0.61 to 0.68; NRI = 0.207; IDI = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS: Vasodilator stress CMR-induced myocardial ischemia and LGE are good long-term predictors for the incidence of MACE in asymptomatic patients with obstructive CAD.

Prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion CMR in patients with previous coronary artery bypass graft.

AIMS: The accuracy and prognostic value of stress perfusion cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) are established in coronary artery disease (CAD) patients. Because myocardial contrast kinetics may be altered after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), most studies excluded CABG patients. This study aimed to assess the prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion CMR in CABG patients. METHODS AND RESULTS: Consecutive CABG patients referred for stress CMR were retrospectively included and followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including cardiovascular (CV) death or non-fatal myocardial infarction (MI). Cox regression analyses were performed to determine the prognostic association of inducible ischaemia and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) by CMR. Of 866 consecutive CABG patients, 852 underwent the stress CMR protocol and 771 (89%) completed the follow-up [median (interquartile range) 4.2 (3.3-6.2) years]. There were 85 MACE (63 CV deaths and 22 non-fatal MI). Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, the presence of inducible ischaemia identified the occurrence of MACE [hazard ratio (HR) 3.52, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.27-5.48; P < 0.001] and CV death (HR 2.55, 95% CI: 1.52-4.25; P < 0.001). In a multivariable stepwise Cox regression including clinical characteristics and CMR indexes, the presence of inducible ischaemia was an independent predictor of a higher incidence of MACE (HR 3.22, 95% CI: 2.06-5.02; P < 0.001) and CV death (HR 2.15, 95% CI: 1.28-3.62; P = 0.003), and the same was observed for LGE (both P = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Stress CMR has a good discriminative prognostic value in patients after CABG, with a higher incidence of MACE and CV death in patients with inducible ischaemia and/or LGE.

Multiple Arterial Thrombosis in a 78-Year-Old Patient: Catastrophic Thrombotic Syndrome in COVID-19.

We describe a patient with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and multiple concomitant thromboses occurring on the 9th day of hospital stay. Thromboses were found in distinct zones of the aorta, as well as in the renal, humeral, and pulmonary arteries. The extensive biological workup performed following this catastrophic thrombotic syndrome found no evidence for underlying prothrombotic disease. In light of current evidence regarding endothelium abnormalities related to COVID-19, this extreme case of catastrophic thrombotic syndrome suggests that COVID-19 can induce severe arterial thrombosis following intense endothelial activation.

Nous décrivons le cas d'un patient atteint de la maladie à coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) et présentant de multiples thromboses concomitantes survenant au 9e jour d'hospitalisation. Les thromboses ont été identifiées dans des zones distinctes de l'aorte, ainsi que dans les artères rénales, humérales et pulmonaires. Un examen biologique approfondi effectué à la suite de ce syndrome thrombotique catastrophique n'a révélé aucun signe de maladie prothrombotique sous-jacente. À la lumière de ces éléments concernant les anomalies de l'endothélium liées à la COVID-19, ce cas extrême de syndrome thrombotique catastrophique suggère que la COVID-19 peut induire une thrombose artérielle sévère suite à une activation endothéliale intense.

Feasibility and Prognostic Value of Vasodilator Stress Perfusion CMR in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). BACKGROUND: Because most studies have excluded arrhythmic patients, the prognostic value of stress perfusion CMR in patients with AF is unknown. METHODS: Between 2008 and 2018, consecutive patients with suspected or stable chronic coronary artery disease and AF referred for vasodilator stress perfusion CMR were included and followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular event(s) (MACE), defined as cardiovascular death or nonfatal myocardial infarction. The diagnosis of AF was defined by 12-lead electrocardiography before and after CMR. Univariate and multivariate Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of inducible ischemia or late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) by CMR. RESULTS: Of 639 patients (mean age 72 ± 9 years, 77% men), 602 (94%) completed the CMR protocol, and 538 (89%) completed follow-up (median 5.1 years); 80 had MACE. Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, the presence of ischemia (hazard ratio [HR]: 7.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.86 to 11.80) or LGE (HR: 2.41; 95% CI: 1.55 to 3.74) was associated with the occurrence of MACE (p < 0.001 for both). In a multivariate Cox regression including clinical and CMR indexes, the presence of ischemia (HR: 5.98; 95% CI: 3.68 to 9.73) or LGE (HR: 2.61; 95% CI: 1.89 to 3.60) was an independent predictor of MACE (p < 0.001 for both). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with AF, stress perfusion CMR is feasible and has good discriminative prognostic value to predict the occurrence of MACE.

Prognostic value of dipyridamole stress perfusion cardiovascular magnetic resonance in elderly patients >75 years with suspected coronary artery disease.

AIMS: There are only very few data on the prognostic value of stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) in elderly people, while life expectancy of the general population is steadily increasing. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion CMR in elderly >75 years. METHODS AND RESULTS: Between 2008 and 2017, we included consecutive elderly >75 years without known coronary artery disease (CAD) referred for dipyridamole stress CMR. They were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) including cardiac death or non-fatal myocardial infarction. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the prognostic value of ischaemia or late gadolinium enhancement. Of 754 elderly individuals (82.0 ± 3.9 years, 48.4% men), 659 (87.4%) completed the follow-up with median follow-up of 4.7 years. Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, the presence of myocardial ischaemia was associated with the occurrence of MACE [hazard ratio (HR) 5.38, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.56-9.56; P < 0.001]. In a multivariable Cox regression including clinical characteristics and CMR indexes, inducible ischaemia was an independent predictor of a higher incidence of MACE (HR 4.44, 95% CI: 2.51-7.86; P < 0.001). In patients without ischaemia, the occurrence of MACE was lower in women when compared with men (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Stress CMR is safe and has discriminative prognostic value in elderly, with a significantly lower event rate of future cardiovascular event or death in subjects without ischaemia or infarction.

Safety and Prognostic Value of Vasodilator Stress Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance in Patients With Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction.

BACKGROUND: Patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF; heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction <40%) referred for stress cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) may have a less optimal hemodynamic response to intravenous vasodilator. The aim was to assess the prognostic value of vasodilator stress perfusion CMR in patients with HFrEF. METHODS: Between 2008 and 2018, consecutive patients with HFrEF defined by left ventricular ejection fraction <40% prospectively referred for vasodilator stress perfusion CMR were followed for the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined by cardiovascular death or nonfatal myocardial infarction. Univariable and multivariable Cox regressions were performed to determine the prognostic value of inducible ischemia or late gadolinium enhancement by CMR. RESULTS: Of 1053 patients with HFrEF (65±11 years, median [interquartile range] left ventricular ejection fraction 38.7% [37.2-39.0]), 1018 (97%) completed the CMR protocol and 950 (93%) completed the follow-up (median [interquartile range], 5.6 [3.6-7.3] years); 117 experienced a MACE (12.3%). Stress CMR was well tolerated without any adverse events. Patients without ischemia or late gadolinium enhancement experienced a lower annual event rate of MACE (1.8%) than those with both ischemia and late gadolinium enhancement (12.0%; P<0.001). Using Kaplan-Meier analysis, inducible ischemia and late gadolinium enhancement were significantly associated with the occurrence of MACE (hazard ratio, 2.46 [95% CI, 1.69-3.60]; and hazard ratio, 2.92 [95% CI, 1.77-4.83], respectively, both P<0.001). In multivariable Cox regression, inducible ischemia was an independent predictor of a higher incidence of MACE (hazard ratio, 2.26 [95% CI, 1.52-3.35]; P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Stress CMR is safe and has a good discriminative prognostic value to predict the occurrence of MACE in patients with HFrEF.

Exposure to Ionizing Radiation in Patients Undergoing Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is currently becoming an alternative to surgical valve replacement for patients at low risk, a population that is likely to experience an increase in the radiation-induced cancer risk following TAVI. We aimed to evaluate the overall exposure to ionizing radiation in patients who underwent transfemoral TAVI, including the procedure itself as well as the procedures performed in the preintervention work-up and the post-TAVI interventions. All patients who underwent transfemoral TAVI for symptomatic aortic stenosis in our center over a 26 months period were included. Dosimetric indicators from preprocedural coronary angiography and computed tomography (CT), the TAVI procedure, and any postprocedural interventions (electrophysiology study and/or pacemaker implantation) were collected and converted into an effective dose. A total of 119 transfemoral TAVI procedures were included. The mean cumulative effective dose (ED) was 37.3 mSv. Three irradiating procedures were necessary for 84 patients (71% of the population, i.e., coronary angiography, CT scan and the TAVI procedure itself), whereas 30 patients (25%) required a fourth procedure, and 5 required a fifth (4%). The majority of the dose was from the CT, while only 11% of the dose derived from the TAVI procedure itself. In conclusion, overall exposure to ionizing radiation for patients who underwent transfemoral TAVI seems acceptable, and the majority of the overall ED comes from the CT scan.

Abdominal aorta tortuosity on computed tomography identifies patients at risk of complications during transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

BACKGROUND: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement is now indicated in patients at intermediate surgical risk and will probably soon be indicated in patients at low surgical risk, for whom the occurrence of serious procedural complications is not acceptable. AIMS: We aimed to investigate whether simple arterial variables from computed tomography scanning can predict the occurrence of severe early complications in patients undergoing transfemoral TAVR. METHODS: All patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis treated by transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement in our centre, and for whom computed tomography images were available, were included. An exhaustive analysis of preprocedural computed tomography scans was performed retrospectively, in search of arterial tortuosity and vascular calcifications. The primary endpoint was a composite 30-day safety endpoint. RESULTS: Overall, 175 patients were included. The primary endpoint was observed in 60 patients (35%). Abdominal aorta tortuosity was identified in 28 patients (16%) and was strongly associated with the occurrence of a complication (adjusted odds ratio 2.7, 95% confidence interval 1.1-6.6; P=0.03). There was no significant association between iliofemoral tortuosity or vascular calcification and the occurrence of complications. CONCLUSIONS: A tortuous abdominal aorta was found to be a predictor of the occurrence of a complication in patients undergoing transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement. This computed tomography variable should therefore be taken into account when choosing the approach, especially for patients at intermediate and low surgical risk.