Usability of myocardial work parameters to demonstrate subclinical myocardial involvement in normotensive individuals with exaggerated hypertensive response in treadmill exercise testing.

Early determination of changes in myocardial functions is essential for the protection of cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to evaluate myocardial work parameters in healthy individuals who developed an exaggerated hypertensive response during the treadmill exercise test procedure. The study included a total of 64 patients for whom an exercise electrocardiography test was planned for functional capacity evaluation. The study population was divided according to the presence of exaggerated hypertensive response to exercise (EBPRE) (SBP/DBP ≥210/105 mmHg in males ≥190/105 mmHg in females) and normal blood pressure response to exercise (NBPRE). Patients' echocardiographic evaluations were made at rest, and myocardial work parameters were calculated. There was no statistical difference between the groups (NBPRE vs. EBPRE, respectively) in terms of left ventricular 2,3 and 4 chamber strains and global longitudinal strain (GLS) values (-20.6 ± -2.3, -19.7 ± -1.9, p:.13; -21.3 ± -2.7, -21 ± -2.4, p:.68; -21.2 ± -2.2, -21.2 ± -2.3, p:.93; and -20.8 ± -1.5, -20.4 ± -1.5, p:.23, respectively). Global constrictive work (GCW), global waste work (GWW), and global work efficiency (GWE) were not statistically different between the two groups (2374 ± 210, 2465 ± 204, p:.10; 142 ± 64, 127 ± 42, p:.31; 94.3 ± 2.5, 95.1 ± 1.5, p:.18, respectively). In contrast, global work index (GWI) parameters were different between the two groups (2036 ± 149, 2147 ± 150, p < .001). The GWI was independently associated with EBPRE (odds ratio with 95% 3.32 (1.02-11.24), p = .03). The partial effect plots were used for GWI to predict EBPRE, according to the results, an increase in GWI predicts probability of exaggerated hypertensive response. In conclusion, Myocardial work analyses might be used to identify early signs of myocardial involvement in normotensive patients with EBPRE.

A Novel Composed Index to Evaluate the Right Ventricle Free-Wall Adaptation Against Ventricular Wall Stress in Acute Pulmonary Embolism.

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary embolism severity index and simplified pulmonary embolism severity index have been utilized in initial risk evaluation in patients with acute pulmonary embolism. However, these models do not include any imaging measure of right ventricle function. In this study, we proposed a novel index and aimed to evaluate the clinical impact. METHODS: Our study population comprised retrospectively evaluated 502 patients with acute pulmonary embolism managed with different treatment modalities. Echocardiographic and computed tomographic pulmonary angiography evaluations were performed at admission to the emergency room within maximally 30 minutes. The formula of our index was as follows: (right ventricle diameter × systolic pulmonary arterial pressure-echo)/(right ventricle free-wall diameter × tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion). RESULTS: This index value showed significant correlations to clinical and hemodynamic severity measures. Only pulmonary embolism severity index, but not our index value, independently predicted in-hospital mortality. However, an index value higher than 17.8 predicted the long-term mortality with a sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 40% (areas under the curve = 0.652, 95% CI, 0.557-0.747, P =.001). According to the adjusted variable plot, the risk of long-term mortality increased until an index level of 30 but remained unchanged thereafter. The cumulative hazard curve also showed a higher mortality with high-index value versus low-index value. CONCLUSIONS: Our index composed from measures of computed tomographic pulmonary angiography and transthoracic echocardiography may provide important insights regarding the adaptation status of right ventricle against pressure/wall stress in acute pulmonary embolism, and a higher value seems to be associated with severity of the clinical and hemodynamic status and long-term mortality but not with in-hospital mortality. However, the pulmonary embolism severity index remained as the only independent predictor for in-hospital mortality.

A New Index for the Prediction of In-Hospital Mortality in Patients with Acute Pulmonary Embolism: The Modified Shock Index.

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary embolism severity index, its simplified version, and shock index have been used for risk stratification in acute pulmonary embolism. In this study, we proposed a modification in severity index and evaluated the correlates and prognostic value of modification in severity index in this setting. METHODS: The study group comprised retrospectively evaluated 181 patients with acute pulmonary embolism. Systematic workup including pulmonary embolism severity index, its simplified version, shock index, biomarkers, and echocardiographic and multidetector computed tomography assessments was performed in all patients. Moreover, we calculated modification in severity index by multiplying original shock index (heart rate/systolic blood pressure ratio) and a third component, 1/pulse oxymetric saturation (pSat O2%) ratio. The primary endpoint was defined as all-cause mortality and hemodynamic collapse during the hospital stay. RESULTS: On the basis of initial risk stratification, ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis, systemic tissue-type plasminogen activator, and unfractionated heparin therapies were utilized in 83 (45.9%), 37 (20.4%), and 61 (33.7%) patients, respectively. The primary end-point occurred in 13 (7.2%) patients. Receiver-operating curve analysis revealed that modification in severity index had the highest area under the curve of 0.739 (0.588-0.890, P =.002) compared with shock index, pulmonary embolism severity index, or its simplified version. The modification in severity index > 0.989 predicted primary endpoint with 73% sensitivity and 54% specificity. CONCLUSIONS: The modification in severity index seems to be a simple, quick, and compre-hensive risk assessment tool for bedside evaluation at initial stratification, in monitoring the clinical benefit from therapies, and decision-making for escalation to other reperfusion strategies in patients with acute pulmonary embolism. However, the prognostic value of modification in severity index needs to be validated with further studies.

An Eight-year, Single-center Experience on Ultrasound Assisted Thrombolysis with Moderate-dose, Slow-infusion Regimen in Pulmonary Embolism.

BACKGROUND: There is limited data on moderate-dose with slow-infusion thrombolytic regimen by ultrasound-asssisted-thrombolysis (USAT) in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). AIMS: In this study, our eight-year experience on USAT with moderate-dose, slow-infusion tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA) regimen in patients with PE at intermediate-high- and high-risk was presented, and short-, and long-term effectiveness and safety outcomes were evaluated. METHODS: Our study is based on the retrospective evaluation of 225 patients with PE having multiple comorbidities who underwent USAT. RESULTS: High- and intermediate-high-risk were noted in 14.7% and in 85.3% of patients, respectively. Mean t-PA dosage was 35.4±13.3 mg, and the infusion duration was 26.6±7.7 h. Measures of pulmonary artery (PA) obstruction and right ventricle (RV) dysfunction were improved within days (p<0.0001 for all). During the hospital stay, major and minor bleeding and mortality rates were 6.2%, 12.4%, and 6.2%, respectively. Bleeding and unresolved PE accounted for 50% and 42.8% of in-hospital mortality, respectively. Age, rate, and duration of t-PA were not associated with in-hospital major bleeding and mortality. Oxygen saturation exceeded 90% in 91.2% of patients at discharge. During follow-up of median 962 (610-1894) days, high-risk status related to 30-day mortality, whereas age >65 years was associated with long-term mortality. CONCLUSION: Our real-life experience with USAT with moderate-dose, slow-infusion t-PA regimen in patients with PE at high-and intermediate-high risk demonstrated clinically relevant improvements in PA obstructive burden and RV dysfunction. Age, rate or infusion duration of t-PA was not related to major bleeding or mortality risk, whereas unresolved obstruction remained as a lethal issue.

Eustachian Tube Function in Flight Attendants.

Eustachian tube (ET) function is of utmost importance in people who are under constant barometric pressure changes in their daily lives. Proper functioning is essential in avoiding pressure related injuries. We aimed to investigate how well the ET functions in flying personnel and how it compares to the non-flying population.Prospective study. Acibadem University Atakent Hospital. 115 participants were included in the study. Each underwent a thorough otorhinolarynglogic examination then undertook a tympanogram followed by eustachian tube function (EtFT) test. A statistically significant difference in ear volume was observed in flight personnel. EtFT results showed the ability to equalize pressure after Valsalva manouvre was also significantly higher in flight personnel. Flight attendants that are subject to pressure changes throughout their careers do seem to be more capable of equalizing pressure through manoeuvres such as the Valsalva. This may be due to the fact that continuous pressure changes creates a more pliable tympanic membrane.

The Consistent Effectiveness and Safety of Macitentan Therapies Across Idiopathic and Congenital Heart Disease-Associated PulmonaryArterial Hypertension: A Single-Center Experience.

BACKGROUND: In this single-center study, we evaluated efficacy and safety issues and predictors of survival in patients with idiopathic and congenital heart disease-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension who were under macitentan therapies. METHOD: Our study retrospectively evaluated 221 patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension enrolled in our single-center study, and mono, dual, and triple macitentan therapies were noted in 30, 115, and 76 patients, respectively. The longitudinal changes in clinical, neurohumoral, and echocardiographic measures of pulmonary arterial hypertension were evaluated. The Registry to Evaluate Early and Long-Term Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Disease Management, Registry to Evaluate Early and Long-Term Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Disease Management 2.0, and Registry to Evaluate Early and Long- Term Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Disease Management Lite 2 scores at baseline, Swedish PAH Registry, Comparative Prospective Registry of Newly Initiated Therapies for Pulmonary Hypertension registry, and French Pulmonary Hypertension Network registry risk status both at baseline and first control were assessed. RESULT: The median follow-up period was 1068 [415-2245] days. Macitentan was associated with significant improvements in functional class, 6-minute walk distance, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and echocardiographic measures without any deterioration of hemoglobin or hepatic enzymes. The low-risk scores with each model at baseline and/or first control are related to significantly better survival. Age, gender, and log-NT-proBNP in time-fixed and idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, and log-NT-proBNP in time-dependent Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION: Mono- or sequential combination macitentan therapies were associated with sustained benefits in functional class, 6-minute walk distance, NT-proBNP, and echocardiographic measures in patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and congenital heart disease-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension, and low-risk scores at baseline and/or first controls can be translated to better survival.

Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in Pregnant Women with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: A Single-Center Experience and Review of Current Literature.

BACKGROUND: Although pregnancy in women with pulmonary arterial hypertension has been considered a high-risk condition, current data regarding pregnancy with pulmonary arterial hypertension are scarce. In this study, we aimed to evaluate our single-center data on maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women with PAH and review currently available risk-based management strategies. METHODS: Our single-center study group comprised 35 women who became pregnant after the diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension or in whom pulmonary arterial hypertension was diagnosed within early post-partum period. Clinical, laboratory, echocardiographic, and hemodynamic characteristics of pregnant and non-pregnant productive women with pulmonary arterial hypertension were compared, and similar comparison was also repeated for survivors and non-survivors in pregnant patient group. RESULTS: Pregnancy was noted in 15% of the 228 females with pulmonary arterial hypertension who were of hormonally productive ages, generally well-tolerated until delivery. Elective abortion and pre-term delivery were documented in 1 (2.8%) and 12 (35.3%) pregnant women, respectively. Switching to sildenafil was the standard medication during pregnancy. Cesarian section was the preferred method of delivery in all pregnant women with pulmonary arterial hypertension and was performed without any complication. Clinic deteoriation within the first week of delivery was observed in 5 (41.6%) patients. Maternal mortality was noted in 13 (37.1%) patients and was documented to cumulate within the first month of delivery. However, any sign predicting post-partum clinical deterioration was not found. No fetal mortality was observed. CONCLUSION: Despite the development of advanced therapies, pregnancy in pulmonary arterial hypertension still carries a high mortality risk and requires multi-disciplinary expert center care with more proactive management strategies.

Relationship between right atrial pressure and the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score in patients with advanced heart failure.

Background: This study aims to investigate the association between right atrial pressure and the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score and to evaluate the ability of this scoring system to accurately predict the value of right atrial pressure. Methods: Between April 2016 and November 2018, a total of 137 patients (118 males, 19 females; median age: 49 years; range, 40 to 54 years) with advanced heart failure who were candidates for left ventricular assist device implantation or heart transplantation were retrospectively analyzed. We developed a formula calculated by using the biochemical and cardiac catheterization parameters of the patients. Results: There was a strong correlation between the right atrial pressure and the scores (r=0.510, p<0.001). The estimated right atrial pressure was calculated as "2 + (0.92 x Model for End-Stage Liver Disease Score)" (unstandardized coefficient 0.920, t value 7.674, p<0.001). The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score was found to be an independent predictor of high right atrial pressure (odds ratio=1.491, 95% confidence interval: 1.244-1.786, p<0.001). The calculated area under the curve was 0.789 (95% confidence interval: 0.710-0.867, p<0.001) and the cut-off value of the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score in the prediction of high right atrial pressure was 10.5 with 75% sensitivity and 73% specificity. Conclusion: We define a method to calculate right atrial pressure obtained by using the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score without the need for cardiac catheterization during the hospitalization and follow-up period of patients with advanced heart failure.

Prognostic Impact of Nutritional Indices in Candidates for Heart Transplantation.

OBJECTIVE: No study has thus far evaluated the association of controlling nutritional status (CO NUT) score and prognostic nutritional index (PNI) with prognosis in candidates listed for heart transplantation (HT). Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the impact of these nutritional indices on prognosis in these candidates. METHODS: In this retrospective study, a total of 195 candidates for HT were included. Over a median follow-up period of 503.5 days, the patients were grouped as survivors (n=121) and non-survivors (n = 74). Malnutrition was defined as CONUT score ≥2 (CONUT-defined malnu trition) and PNI ≤38 (PNI-defined malnutrition). RESULTS: The CONUT-defined malnutrition was observed in 19.8% and 39.2% of the survivors and non-survivors (P = .003), and the PNI-defined malnutrition was observed in 7.4% and 16.2% of the survivors and non-survivors (P = .032). The univariate analysis revealed that the CONUT score from 0 to 2 (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.11-1.79, P =.004) and PNI from 45.5 to 54.5 (HR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.64-0.95, P = .001), the CONUT-defined malnutrition (HR: 2.48, 95% CI: 1.55-3.97, P < .001) and the PNI-defined malnutrition (HR: 1.97, 95% CI: 1.01-3.86, P = .04) were associated with mortality. In the multivariate adjusted models, the CO NUT-defined malnutrition was an independent predictor of mortality, whereas the PNI-defined malnutrition was not a predictor of mortality (HR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.12-3.27, P = .001 and HR: 1.64, 95% CI: 0.80-3.40, P = .18). The log-rank test revealed that the CONUT-defined malnutri tion and the PNI-defined malnutrition were associated with decrease in survival rate. CONCLUSION: Although both the CONUT score and the PNI score were associated with prognosis in candidates for HT, the CONUT score was superior to the PNI score in predicting mortality.

Prognostic Importance of Pulmonary Artery Pulsatility Index and Right Ventricular Stroke Work Index in End-Stage Heart Failure Patients.

BACKGROUND: Right ventricular (RV) failure is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with left ventricular (LV) end-stage heart failure (ESHF). Pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) and RV stroke work index (RVSWI) are invasive parameters related to RV function. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic impact of PAPi and RVSWI in these patients. METHODS AND RESULTS: In this study, 416 patients with ESHF were included. The adverse cardiac event (ACE) was defined as LV assist device implantation, urgent heart transplantation, or cardiac mortality. There were 218 ACE cases and 198 non-ACE cases over a median follow-up of 503.50 days. Patients with ACE had lower PAPi and similar RVSWI compared to those without ACE (3.1 ± 1.9 vs. 3.7 ± 2.3, p = 0.003 and 7.3 ± 4.9 vs. 6.9 ± 4.4, p = 0.422, respectively). According to the results of multivariate analysis, while PAPi (from 2 to 5.65) was associated with ACE, RVSWI (from 3.62 to 9.75) was not associated with ACE (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.55-0.95], p = 0.031; HR: 0.79, 95% CI: [0.58-1.09], p = 0.081, respectively). Survival analysis revealed that PAPi ≤2.56 was associated with a higher ACE risk compared to PAPi >2.56 (HR: 1.46, 95% CI: 1.11-1.92, p = 0.006). PAPi ≤2.56 could predict ACE with 56.7% sensitivity and 51.3% specificity at 1 year. Furthermore, the association between RVSWI and ACE was nonlinear (J-curve pattern). Low and high values seem to be associated with higher ACE risk compared to intermediate values. CONCLUSION: The low PAPi was an independent risk for ACE and it had a linear association with it. However, RVSWI seems to be have a nonlinear association with ACE (J-curve pattern).

The effects of severe functional mitral regurgitation on right ventricular function in patients with advanced heart failure who were on waiting list for heart transplant.

Background: This study aims to investigate the effects of severe functional mitral regurgitation on the parameters that reflect right ventricular function such as tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and right ventricular stroke work index in potential heart transplant recipients. Methods: Between January 2015 and January 2017, a total of 282 consecutive patients (250 males, 32 females; mean age: 46±10 years; range, 18 to 66 years) with advanced heart failure who were referred for heart transplantation were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups as severe (n=84) and non-severe functional mitral regurgitation (n=198). Patients" medical histories, demographic characteristics, echocardiographic evaluations, and findings of right heart catheterization were recorded. Results: The two groups were similar in terms of left ventricular ejection fraction, the New York Heart Association functional class, Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support profile, and the duration of heart failure (p>0.05). Both groups were also similar with respect to tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and right ventricular stroke work index. Functional mitral regurgitation was the only statistically significant variable in the univariate analysis for tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (odds ratio [OR]: 0.58; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34-0.97; p=0.04), with no significant effect in the multivariate analysis. In the univariate analysis for right ventricular stroke work index, pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (OR: 0.77; 95% CI 0.67-0.88; p<0.001) was a significant variable and also had a significant effect in the multivariate analysis (OR: 0.92; 95% CI 0.87-0.97; p=0.003). In the tertile analyses, there were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and right ventricular stroke work index. Conclusion: We found no significant difference in right ventricular functions between the severe and non-severe functional mitral regurgitation groups in patients with advanced heart failure who had relatively short follow-up. Right ventricle can maintain its normal function at early stage. Adaptive remodeling of right ventricle may have an effect on these findings. Severe functional mitral regurgitation may be associated with adverse effects on advanced heart failure by increasing the right ventricular afterload.

Effect of Group 2 Pulmonary Hypertension Subgroups on Outcomes: Impact of the Updated Definition of Pulmonary Hypertension.

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common complication of end-stage heart failure (ESHF) and associated with increased mortality. The definition of PH has recently been changed from a mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAPm) ≥25 mmHg to a PAPm >20 mmHg. Since this change, there are no data evaluating group 2 PH subgroups on outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of updated group 2 PH subgroups on outcomes, as well as to evaluate the clinical, echocardiographic, and haemodynamic characteristics of subgroups, and determine predictors of PH in patients with ESHF. METHOD: A total of 416 patients with ESHF with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤25% were divided into three groups. Pulmonary hypertension was defined as PAPm >20 mmHg. Primary outcome was defined as left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation, urgent heart transplantation (HT), or death. Secondary outcome was defined as LVAD implantation and HT. RESULTS: Over a median follow-up of 503.5 days, combined pre- and postcapillary PH (Cpc-PH) displayed greater risk of primary outcome than those with isolated postcapillary (Ipc-PH) (hazard ratio [HR], 1.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.29-1.91; p<0.001) and those with no PH (HR, 2.47; 95% CI, 1.68-3.63; p<0.001). Patients with Ipc-PH demonstrated greater risk than those with no PH (HR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.57-1.90; p<0.001). Likelihood ratios of updated PH criteria and old PH criteria (PAPm ≥25 mmHg) in identifying primary outcome were 75.6 (R2=0.179) and 72.09 (R2=0.164). Patients with PAPm 21-24 mmHg had a higher primary outcome than those with PAPm ≤20 mmHg. Severe mitral regurgitation, LVEF, grade 3 diastolic dysfunction, diabetes, and cardiac output were predictors of PH. CONCLUSIONS: Pulmonary hypertension increases the risk of LVAD, urgent HT, or death, and Cpc-PH further increases risk in patients with ESHF. Compared to the previous definition, a new PH definition better discriminates death, going to urgent HT, or LVAD implantation for PH subgroups.

Ischaemic versus non-ischaemic: how does heart failure aetiology affect pulmonary arterial capacitance and pulmonary artery pulsatility index in end-stage heart failure?

BACKGROUND: The aetiology of heart failure may have different effects on right ventricular (RV) function, pulmonary pressures and RV afterload. Pulmonary arterial capacitance (PAC) and pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) are novel haemodynamic indices used in determining RV afterload and RV function, respectively. We aimed to investigate whether there was a difference in PAC and PAPi between ischaemic cardiomyopathy (ICMP) and non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy (NICMP) in patients with end-stage heart failure. METHODS AND RESULTS: A total of 215 subjects undergoing evaluation for heart transplantation or left ventricular (LV) assist device were classified into two groups: ICMP (n = 101) and NICMP (n = 114). The patients with LV ejection fraction ≤ 25% were included in the study. ICMP group had lower PAC and higher PAPi values compared to NICMP group [1.25 (0.82-1.86) vs. 1.58 (1.02-2.21), p = 0.002 and 3.4 (2.2-5.0) vs. 2.5 (1.7-4.0); p = 0.007]. Pulmonary vascular resistance, pulmonary artery systolic and mean pressure were higher in ICMP group compared to NICMP group [3.5 ± 1.8 vs. 2.9 ± 2.3, p = 0.004; 59.0 (42.0-73.0) vs. 46.0 (37.0-59.0), p < 0.001, 35.0 (27.0-46.0) vs. 31.0 (23.0-39.0), p = 0.002]. The patients with ICMP had higher tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and less RV dilatation. ICMP was an independent risk factor for pulmonary hypertension (OR: 4.02, 95% CI: 1.13-14.24, p = 0.031). CONCLUSION: ICMP was associated with lower PAC and higher PAPi. These results indicated that an ischaemic aetiology is associated with higher RV afterload and better RV function in the end-stage heart failure.

A seven-year single-center experience on AngioJet rheolytic thrombectomy in patients with pulmonary embolism at high risk and intermediate-high risk.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Angiojet Rheolytic thrombectomy (ART) has been utilized as a catheter-based treatment in acute pulmonary embolism (PE). In this study based on our seven-year experience on ART in patients with PE, we evaluated efficacy and safety outcomes of ART. METHODS: Our study is based on retrospective evaluation of 56 patients with high- and intermediate-high-risk PE, age (62 years; interquartile-range (IQR): 50-73) who underwent ART. RESULTS: High- and intermediate-high-risk were noted in 21.4 % and in 78.6 % of patients, respectively. ART duration was 304(IQR: 246-468) seconds. Measures of obstruction, right to left ventricle diameter ratio (RV/LV ratio), right to left atrial diameter ratio and pulmonary arterial pressures were improved (p<0.001 for all). During hospital stay, acute renal failure, major and minor bleeding, and mortality rates were 37.5%, 7.1%, 12.5%, and 8.9%, respectively. Aging related to post-procedural nephropathy while high-risk status was associated with in-hospital mortality (p=0.006) and long-term mortality. CONCLUSIONS: The ART resulted in significant and clinically relevant improvements in the pulmonary arterial thrombotic burden, RV strain and hemodynamics in patients with PE at high- and intermediate-high-risk. Aging increased the risk of post-procedural nephropathy whereas baseline high-risk status predicted in-hospital and long-term mortality.

Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in-hospital cardiac arrest due to acute coronary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation on survival and neurological outcomes in in-hospital cardiac arrest patients. METHODS: Between January 2018 and December 2020, a total of 22 patients (17 males, 5 females; mean age: 52.8±9.0 years; range, 32 to 70 years) treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation using veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support for in-hospital cardiac arrest after acute coronary syndrome were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into two groups as those weaned (n=13) and non-weaned (n=9) from the veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Demographic data of the patients, heart rhythms at the beginning of conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the angiographic and interventional results, survival and neurological outcomes of the patients before and after extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation were recorded. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the groups in terms of comorbidity and baseline laboratory test values. The underlying rhythm was ventricular fibrillation in 92% of the patients in the weaned group and there was no cardiac rhythm in 67% of the patients in the non-weaned group (p=0.125). The recovery in the mean left ventricular ejection fraction was significantly evident in the weaned group (36.5±12.7% vs. 21.1±7.4%, respectively; p=0.004). The overall wean rate from veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was 59.1%; however, the discharge rate from hospital of survivors without any neurological sequelae was 36.4%. CONCLUSION: In-hospital cardiac arrest is a critical emergency situation requiring instantly life-saving interventions through conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation. If it fails, extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation should be initiated, regardless the underlying etiology or rhythm disturbances. An effective conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation is mandatory to prevent brain and body hypoperfusion.

Effect of non-dipper pattern on echocardiographic myocardial work parameters in normotensive individuals.

BACKGROUND: It is known that non-dipper pattern (NDP) is associated with adverse outcomes in hypertensive patients. However, there is insufficient data on the outcome of NDP in normotensive individuals. Using myocardial work (MW) analysis, as a new echocardiographic examination method, this study aimed to determine the early myocardial effects of NDP in normotensive individuals. METHODS: This study included 70 normotensive individuals who were followed by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). The subjects were divided into two groups according to dipper pattern (DP) and NDP. Conventional, strain, and MW findings were compared between the groups by making echocardiographic evaluations. RESULTS: The demographic characteristics, laboratory parameters, and measurements of cardiac chambers, and left ventricular (LV) walls were similar between the groups. There was no statistical difference between the groups in terms of LV 3-2-4 chambers strains and global longitudinal strain (GLS) values. LVMW parameters, global work index (GWI), and global constrictive work (GCW) were not statistically different between groups (2012 ± 127, 2069 ± 137, p = 0.16; 2327 ± 173, 2418 ± 296, p = 0.18, respectively). However, global waste work (GWW) and global work efficiency (GWE) parameters were different between the groups (144 ± 63.9, 104 ± 24.8, p < 0.001; 93.2 ± 3.17, 95.4 ± 1.28, p < 0.001, respectively). In regression analysis, GWW was independently associated with NDP. GWW model showed better results with higher likelihood chi-square and R2 values than GLS model in discriminating the predictable capability for NDP status. CONCLUSION: The results of MW analysis in this study showed that GWW values were higher and the GWE values were lower in normotensive individuals with NDP.

How does severe functional mitral regurgitation redefined by European guidelines affect pulmonary vascular resistance and hemodynamics in heart transplant candidates?

OBJECTIVE: Increased pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) are important prognostic factors in patients with heart transplantation (HT). It is well known that severe mitral regurgitation increases pulmonary pressures. However, the European Society of Cardiology and the 6th World Symposium of pulmonary hypertension (PH) task force redefined severe functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) and PH, respectively. We aimed to investigate the effect of severe FMR on PAP and PVR based on these major redefinitions in patients with HT. METHODS: A total of 212 patients with HT were divided into 2 groups: those with severe FMR (n=70) and without severe FMR (n=142). Severe FMR was defined as effective orifice regurgitation area ≥20 mm2 and regurgitation volume ≥30 mL where the mitral valve was morphologically normal. A mean PAP of >20 mm Hg was accepted as PH. Patients with left ventricular ejection fraction ≤25% were included in the study. RESULTS: The systolic PAP, mean PAP, and PVR were higher in patients with severe FMR than in those without severe FMR [58.5 (48.0-70.2) versus 45.0 (36.0-64.0), p<0.001; 38.0 (30.2-46.6) versus 31.0 (23.0-39.5), p=0.004; 4.0 (2.3-6.8) versus 2.6 (1.2-4.3), p=0.001, respectively]. Univariate analysis revealed that the severe FMR is a risk factor for PVR ≥3 and 5 WU [odds ratio (OR): 2.0, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.1-3.6, p=0.009; and OR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.5-6.7, p=0.002]. The multivariate regression analysis results revealed that presence of severe FMR is an independent risk factor for PVR ≥3 WU and presence of combined pre-post-capillary PH (OR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.30-3.82, p=0.003 and OR: 2.30, 95% CI: 1.25-4.26, p=0.008). CONCLUSION: Even in the updated definition of FMR with a lower threshold, severe FMR is associated with higher PVR, systolic PAP, and mean PAP and appears to have an unfavorable effect on pulmonary hemodynamics in patients with HT.

Prognostic significance of malnutrition scores in elderly patients for the prediction of contrast-induced acute kidney injury.

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition reflects the general condition of a patient including physical condition, protein turnover, and immune competence. Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a disorder that adversely affects the prognosis of older adults. In our study, we aimed to show the relationship between CI-AKI and malnutrition status in elderly patients over 65 years of age with chronic coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS: Study enrolled 360 consecutive patients with coronary angiography performed because of chronic coronary artery disease. Patients pre-procedural and post-procedural blood samples were taken and prognostic nutritional index (PNI), controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score, and geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) malnutrition scores were calculated. RESULTS: The median age of the patients included in the study was 69 (67-72, IQR) and CI-AKI was seen in 91 (25.2%) patients. Univariate regression analysis showed that age, diabetes mellitus, baseline creatinine, body weight-adapted contrast agent, haemoglobin, left ventricular ejection fraction, CONUT score, PNI score, and GNRI score were independent predictors of CI-AKI. In model 1, increase in CONUT score (2 to 5) (OR: 3.21 (2.11-4.88), in model 2, increase in PNI score (37.4 to 45) (OR: 0.34, (0.24-0.49)), and in model 3, increase in GNRI score (89.5 to 103.8) (OR: 0.55, (0.38-0.81)) were independently associated with the presence of CI-AKI. PNI showed better results than other models in discriminating the predictable capability for CI-AKI. CONCLUSION: Malnutrition assessment of elderly patients before performing diagnostic or interventional coronary procedures could help clinicians to identify patients with elevated risk for CI-AKI.

A Novel Risk Assessment Model Using Urinary System Contrast Blush Grading to Predict Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury in Low-Risk Profile Patients.

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) can occur after coronary interventions despite protective measures. We evaluated the effect of urinary system contrast blush grading for predicting post-procedure CI-AKI in 486 patients with chronic coronary artery disease. Patient characteristics and blood samples were collected. Urinary system contrast blush grade was recorded during the coronary angiography and interventions. Post-procedure third to fourth day blood samples were collected for diagnosis of CI-AKI. The median age of the patients was 61 years (53-70, interquartile range), and 194 (39.9%) participants were female. Contrast-induced acute kidney injury occurred in 78 (16%) patients. By comparing full and reduced models with the likelihood ratio test, it was observed that in the reduced model, factors such as age, diabetes mellitus, body weight-adapted contrast media (CM), hemoglobin, and urinary system blush were associated with CI-AKI presence. The probability of CI-AKI presence increased slightly from grade 0 to 1 blush, but it increased sharply grade from 1 to 2 blush. According to our results, an increase in body weight-adapted CM and urinary blush grading were the main predictors of CI-AKI. These findings suggest that when body weight-adapted CM ratio exceeds 3.5 mL/kg and urinary contrast blush reaches grade 2, the patients should be followed up more carefully for the development of CI-AKI.