ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: The three-dimensional (3D) saddle shape of the mitral annulus (MA) is well characterized in humans, but segmental MA deformity and regurgitation suffered after the ischemic damage of myocardial infarction (MI) is poorly understood. In this study, such changes were assessed in patients with ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) post-MI, using our computerized 3D echo technique. METHODS: A patient cohort (n = 72) with IMR due to inferior or anterior MI and normal controls (n = 20) were enrolled for 3D MA echo studies. Sequential coordinates of MA were manually measured from each of 18 radial planes, cropped in midsystole, to generate 3D MA images. In addition, six segmental (A1, A2, A3, P1, P2, P3) parameters of MA and global features, such as circumference, area, and height, were calculated. RESULTS: All six segments of MA were significantly dilated in the IMR group compared with corresponding segments of normal controls. Although there were no significant intragroup differences in A1, A2, and A3 segments, a greater degree of P3 segmental MA deformity was observed only in patients following inferior MI. CONCLUSION: The MA dilatation observed in patients with IMR after MI was more pronounced in patients with anterior versus inferior MI. However, P3 segmental dilatation of MA was significantly greater in patients after inferior IM with significant IMR, corresponding with more severe asymmetric MA deformity. (Echocardiography 2012;29:42-50).
Subject(s)
Echocardiography, Three-Dimensional/methods , Mitral Valve Insufficiency/complications , Mitral Valve Insufficiency/diagnostic imaging , Mitral Valve/diagnostic imaging , Myocardial Infarction/complications , Myocardial Infarction/diagnostic imaging , Computer Systems , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Reproducibility of Results , Sensitivity and SpecificityABSTRACT
ObjectiveTo explore the impact of urinary incontinence on women's quality of life, and the effective measures to improve it.MethodsWe conducted a comprehensive literature review to analyze the present research about quality of life on urinary incontinent women and interventions for improving it.ResultsUrinary incontinence influenced patients' quality of life in many aspects, especially in their physical health, mental health, daily living and sexual life. Regular pelvic floor muscle training could prevent and control the incontinence symptoms and improve patients' quality of life.ConclusionsIt is necessary to carry on a series of activities to propagandize that urinary incontinence can be treated, effective measures should be taken to prevent and manage urinary incontinence in order to improve quality of life in urinary incontinent women.
