Showing papers in "Heart in 2016"

Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for coronary heart disease and stroke: systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal observational studies

Abstract: Background The influence of social relationships on morbidity is widely accepted, but the size of the risk to cardiovascular health is unclear. Objective We undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between loneliness or social isolation and incident coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke. Methods Sixteen electronic databases were systematically searched for longitudinal studies set in high-income countries and published up until May 2015. Two independent reviewers screened studies for inclusion and extracted data. We assessed quality using a component approach and pooled data for analysis using random effects models. Results Of the 35 925 records retrieved, 23 papers met inclusion criteria for the narrative review. They reported data from 16 longitudinal datasets, for a total of 4628 CHD and 3002 stroke events recorded over follow-up periods ranging from 3 to 21 years. Reports of 11 CHD studies and 8 stroke studies provided data suitable for meta-analysis. Poor social relationships were associated with a 29% increase in risk of incident CHD (pooled relative risk: 1.29, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.59) and a 32% increase in risk of stroke (pooled relative risk: 1.32, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.68). Subgroup analyses did not identify any differences by gender. Conclusions Our findings suggest that deficiencies in social relationships are associated with an increased risk of developing CHD and stroke. Future studies are needed to investigate whether interventions targeting loneliness and social isolation can help to prevent two of the leading causes of death and disability in high-income countries. Study registration number CRD42014010225.

The Fontan circulation after 45 years: update in physiology

Abstract: The Fontan operation was first performed in 1968 Since then, this operation has been performed on thousands of patients worldwide Results vary from very good for many decades to very bad with a pleiad of complications and early death A good understanding of the physiology is necessary to further improve results The Fontan connection creates a critical bottleneck with obligatory upstream congestion and downstream decreased flow; these two features are the basic cause of the majority of the physiologic impairments of this circulation The ventricle, while still the engine of the circuit, cannot compensate for the major flow restriction of the Fontan bottleneck: the suction required to compensate for the barrier effect cannot be generated, specifically not in a deprived heart Except for some extreme situations, the heart therefore no longer controls cardiac output nor can it significantly alter the degree of systemic venous congestion Adequate growth and development of the pulmonary arteries is extremely important as pulmonary vascular impedance will become the major determinant of Fontan outcome Key features of the Fontan ventricle are early volume overload and overgrowth, but currently chronic preload deprivation with increasing filling pressures A functional decline of the Fontan circuit is expected and observed as pulmonary vascular resistance and ventricular filling pressure increase with time Treatment strategies will only be successful if they open up or bypass the critical bottleneck or act on immediate surroundings (impedance of the Fontan neoportal system, fenestration, enhanced ventricular suction)

Trends in the epidemiology of cardiovascular disease in the UK

Abstract: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in the UK is declining; however, CVD burden comes not only from deaths, but also from those living with the disease. This review uses national datasets with multiple years of data to present secular trends in mortality, morbidity, and treatment for all CVD and specific subtypes within the UK. We produced all-ages and premature age-standardised mortality rates by gender, standardised to the 2013 European Standard Population, using data from the national statistics agencies of the UK. We obtained data on hospital admissions from the National Health Service records, using the main diagnosis. Prevalence data come from the Quality and Outcome Framework and national surveys. Total CVD mortality declined by 68% between 1980 and 2013 in the UK. Similar decreases were seen for coronary heart disease and stroke. Coronary heart disease prevalence has remained constant at around 3% in England and 4% in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Hospital admissions for all CVD increased by over 46 000 between 2010/2011 and 2013/2014, with more than 36 500 of these increased admissions for men. Hospital admission trends vary by country and CVD condition. CVD prescriptions and operations have increased over the last decade. CVD mortality has declined notably for both men and women while hospital admissions have increased. CVD prevalence shows little evidence of change. This review highlights that improvements in the burden of CVD have not occurred equally between the four constituent countries of the UK, or between men and women.

Computational fluid dynamics modelling in cardiovascular medicine

Abstract: This paper reviews the methods, benefits and challenges associated with the adoption and translation of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling within cardiovascular medicine. CFD, a specialist area of mathematics and a branch of fluid mechanics, is used routinely in a diverse range of safety-critical engineering systems, which increasingly is being applied to the cardiovascular system. By facilitating rapid, economical, low-risk prototyping, CFD modelling has already revolutionised research and development of devices such as stents, valve prostheses, and ventricular assist devices. Combined with cardiovascular imaging, CFD simulation enables detailed characterisation of complex physiological pressure and flow fields and the computation of metrics which cannot be directly measured, for example, wall shear stress. CFD models are now being translated into clinical tools for physicians to use across the spectrum of coronary, valvular, congenital, myocardial and peripheral vascular diseases. CFD modelling is apposite for minimally-invasive patient assessment. Patient-specific (incorporating data unique to the individual) and multi-scale (combining models of different length- and time-scales) modelling enables individualised risk prediction and virtual treatment planning. This represents a significant departure from traditional dependence upon registry-based, population-averaged data. Model integration is progressively moving towards 'digital patient' or 'virtual physiological human' representations. When combined with population-scale numerical models, these models have the potential to reduce the cost, time and risk associated with clinical trials. The adoption of CFD modelling signals a new era in cardiovascular medicine. While potentially highly beneficial, a number of academic and commercial groups are addressing the associated methodological, regulatory, education- and service-related challenges.

Telehealth exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract: Objective Despite proven effectiveness, participation in traditional supervised exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (exCR) remains low. Telehealth interventions that use information and communication technologies to enable remote exCR programme delivery can overcome common access barriers while preserving clinical supervision and individualised exercise prescription. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the benefits of telehealth exCR on exercise capacity and other modifiable cardiovascular risk factors compared with traditional exCR and usual care, among patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). Methods CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed and PsycINFO were searched from inception through 31 May 2015 for randomised controlled trials comparing telehealth exCR with centre-based exCR or usual care among patients with CHD. Outcomes included maximal aerobic exercise capacity, modifiable cardiovascular risk factors and exercise adherence. Results 11 trials (n=1189) met eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Physical activity level was higher following telehealth exCR than after usual care. Compared with centre-based exCR, telehealth exCR was more effective for enhancing physical activity level, exercise adherence, diastolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Telehealth and centre-based exCR were comparably effective for improving maximal aerobic exercise capacity and other modifiable cardiovascular risk factors. Conclusions Telehealth exCR appears to be at least as effective as centre-based exCR for improving modifiable cardiovascular risk factors and functional capacity, and could enhance exCR utilisation by providing additional options for patients who cannot attend centre-based exCR. Telehealth exCR must now capitalise on technological advances to provide more comprehensive, responsive and interactive interventions.

Cardiac output and related haemodynamics during pregnancy: a series of meta-analyses

Abstract: Objective Cardiac output, a fundamental parameter of cardiovascular function, has consistently been shown to increase across healthy pregnancy; however, the time course and magnitude of adaptation remains equivocal within published literature. The aim of the present meta-analyses was to comprehensively describe the pattern of change in cardiac output during healthy pregnancy. Method A series of meta-analyses of previously published cardiac output data during healthy, singleton pregnancies was completed. PubMed and Scopus databases were searched for studies published between 1996 and 2014. Included studies reported absolute values during a predetermined gestational age (non-pregnant, late first trimester, early and late second trimester, early and late third trimester, early and late postpartum). Cardiac output was measured through echocardiography, impedance cardiography or inert gas rebreathing. Observational data were meta-analysed at each gestational age using a random-effects model. If reported, related haemodynamic variables were evaluated. Results In total, 39 studies were eligible for inclusion, with pooled sample sizes ranging from 259 to 748. Cardiac output increased during pregnancy reaching its peak in the early third trimester, 1.5 L/min (31%) above non-pregnant values. The observed results from this study indicated a non-linear rise to this point. In the early postpartum, cardiac output had returned to non-pregnant values. Conclusion The present results suggest that cardiac output peaks in the early third trimester, following a non-linear pattern of adaptation; however, this must be confirmed using longitudinal studies. The findings provide new insight into the normal progression of cardiac output during pregnancy.

The modern epidemiology of heart valve disease

Abstract: ### Learning objectives In this review, we will discuss the current knowledge of heart valve disease (HVD) epidemiology, how it has changed over time and possible future trends. There are large differences in HVD epidemiology between high-income and low-income countries and across different forms of HVD. The majority of morbidity and mortality attributable to HVD worldwide is due to rheumatic heart disease (RHD), which is most commonly seen in low-income countries. In high-income countries, the greatest burden of HVD referred to hospital is due to calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD). Although prevalence of HVD is low compared with coronary heart disease, the requirement for long-term follow-up, and significant investigation and treatment costs, means that the impact of HVD on healthcare systems is disproportionately large. The strong association between HVD and age, combined with the rapid ageing of populations worldwide, means that HVD has been described as the ‘next cardiac epidemic’.1 ### Current knowledge Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) occurs a number of weeks after Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus) infection, usually in children. ARF leads to valve inflammation through molecular mimicry between the streptococcal M protein and cardiac proteins such as myosin and vimentin, although it is likely that other mechanisms are also involved.2 The requirements for ARF to lead to chronic RHD are not yet fully established but are likely to be related to repeated episodes of often subclinical secondary infection, leading to progressive valve fibrosis and self-sustaining valve inflammation. Those with repeated infections are more likely to progress to chronic RHD, and extended antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended for those with a …

Sex differences in cardiovascular ageing

Abstract: Despite recent progress in identifying and narrowing the gaps in cardiovascular outcomes between men and women, general understanding of how and why cardiovascular disease presentations differ between the sexes remains limited. Sex-specific patterns of cardiac and vascular ageing play an important role and, in fact, begin very early in life. Differences between the sexes in patterns of age-related cardiac remodelling are associated with the relatively greater prevalence in women than in men of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Similarly, sex variation in how vascular structure and function change with ageing contributes to differences between men and women in how coronary artery disease manifests typically or atypically over the adult life course. Both hormonal and non-hormonal factors underlie sex differences in cardiovascular ageing and the development of age-related disease. The midlife withdrawal of endogenous oestrogen appears to augment the age-related increase in cardiovascular risk seen in postmenopausal compared with premenopausal women. However, when compared with intrinsic biological differences between men and women that are present throughout life, this menopausal transition may not be as substantial an actor in determining cardiovascular outcomes.

Trimethylamine N-oxide and prognosis in acute heart failure

Abstract: Objective Acute heart failure (AHF) is associated with high mortality and morbidity. Trimethylamine N -oxide (TMAO), a gut-derived metabolite, has reported association with mortality risk in chronic HF but this association in AHF is still unknown. The present study investigated TMAO in patients admitted to hospital with AHF, and association of circulating levels with prognosis. Methods In total, 972 plasma samples were analysed for TMAO concentration by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Associations with in-hospital mortality (72 events), all-cause mortality (death, 268 events) and a composite of death or rehospitalisation due to HF (death/HF, 384 events) at 1 year were examined. Results TMAO improved risk stratification for in-hospital mortality in combination with current clinical scorings (OR≥1.13, p≤0.014). TMAO tertile analyses reported a graded risk in adverse outcome within 1 year (OR≥1.61, p≤0.004) and improved outcome prediction when stratified as none, one or both biomarker(s) elevated in combination with N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) (OR≥2.15, p≤0.007). TMAO was independently predictive for death and death/HF when corrected for cardiac risk factors (HR≥1.16, p≤0.037); however, this ability was weakened when indices of renal function were included, possibly due to multicollinearity. Conclusions TMAO contributed additional information on patient stratification for in-hospital mortality of AHF admissions using available clinical scores that include renal indices. Furthermore, elevated levels were associated with poor prognosis at 1 year and combination of TMAO and NT-proBNP provided additional prognostic information. TMAO was a univariate predictor of death and death/HF, and remained an independent predictor until adjusted for renal confounders.

Reducing myocardial infarct size: challenges and future opportunities

Abstract: Despite prompt reperfusion by primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI), the mortality and morbidity of patients presenting with an acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remain significant with 9% death and 10% heart failure at 1 year. In these patients, one important neglected therapeutic target is 'myocardial reperfusion injury', a term given to the cardiomyocyte death and microvascular dysfunction which occurs on reperfusing ischaemic myocardium. A number of cardioprotective therapies (both mechanical and pharmacological), which are known to target myocardial reperfusion injury, have been shown to reduce myocardial infarct (MI) size in small proof-of-concept clinical studies-however, being able to demonstrate improved clinical outcomes has been elusive. In this article, we review the challenges facing clinical cardioprotection research, and highlight future therapies for reducing MI size and preventing heart failure in patients presenting with STEMI at risk of myocardial reperfusion injury.

Contrast-induced nephropathy following angiography and cardiac interventions

Abstract: ### European Society of Cardiology (ESC) curriculum section and guidelines referenced ### Learning objectives Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN), also known as contrast-induced acute kidney injury, is an iatrogenic renal injury that follows intravascular administration of radio-opaque contrast media (CM) in susceptible individuals. CIN was first described during the 1950s in case reports of fatal acute renal failure that had occurred following intravenous pyelography in patients with renal disease arising from multiple myeloma.1 ,2 Despite technological advances, CIN remains responsible for a third of all hospital-acquired acute kidney injury (AKI)3 ,4 and affects between 1% and 2% of the general population and up to 50% of high-risk subgroups following coronary angiography (CA) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).5 The proliferation of imaging methods and interventional procedures involving administration of intravascular CM in both non-cardiac modalities (eg, vascular CT angiography and interventional vascular angiography) and in established (eg, CA and PCI) and emerging cardiac modalities (eg, CT coronary angiography (CTCA) and transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI)) has significantly increased the number of patients exposed to CM and thus the number at risk of CIN. The widespread adoption of primary PCI for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), despite significantly improving cardiovascular outcomes, has increased the incidence of CIN due to the inherent difficulties in rapidly assessing CIN …

Effects of a transitional palliative care model on patients with end-stage heart failure: a randomised controlled trial

Abstract: Objective To examine the effects of home-based transitional palliative care for patients with end-stage heart failure (ESHF) after hospital discharge. Methods This was a randomised controlled trial conducted in three hospitals in Hong Kong. The recruited subjects were patients with ESHF who had been discharged home from hospitals and referred for palliative service, and who met the specified inclusion criteria. The interventions consisted of weekly home visits/telephone calls in the first 4 weeks then monthly follow-up, provided by a nurse case manager supported by a multidisciplinary team. The primary outcome measures were any readmission and count of readmissions within 4 and 12 weeks after index discharge, compared using χ 2 tests and Poisson regression, respectively. Secondarily, change in symptoms over time between control and intervention groups were evaluated using generalised estimating equation analyses of data collected using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS). Results The intervention group (n=43) had a significantly lower readmission rate than the control group (n=41) at 12 weeks (intervention 33.6% vs control 61.0% χ 2 =6.8, p=0.009). The mean number (SE) of readmissions for the intervention and control groups was, respectively, 0.42 (0.10) and 1.10 (0.16) and the difference was significant (p=0.001). The relative risk (CI) for 12-week readmissions for the intervention group was 0.55 (0.35 to 0.88). There was no significant difference in readmissions between groups at 4 weeks. However, when compared with the control group, the intervention group experienced significantly higher clinical improvement in depression (45.9% vs 16.1%, p Conclusions This study provides evidence of the effectiveness of a postdischarge transitional care palliative programme in reducing readmissions and improving symptom control among patients with ESHF. Trial registration number HKCTR-1562; Results.

Hybrid approach improves success of chronic total occlusion angioplasty

Abstract: Objectives Treatment options for coronary chronic total occlusions (CTO) are limited, with low historical success rates from percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We report procedural outcomes of CTO PCI from 7 centres with dedicated CTO operators trained in hybrid approaches comprising antegrade/retrograde wire escalation (AWE/RWE) and dissection re-entry (ADR/RDR) techniques. Methods Clinical and procedural data were collected from consecutive unselected patients with CTO between 2012 and 2014. Lesion complexity was graded by the Multicentre CTO Registry of Japan (J-CTO) score, with ≥2 defined as complex. Success was defined as thrombolysis in myocardial infarction 3 flow with Results 1156 patients were included. Despite high complexity (mean J-CTO score 2.5±1.3), success rates were 79% (first attempt) and 90% (overall) with 30-day MACE of 1.6%. AWE was highly effective in less complex lesions (J-CTO ≤1 94% success vs 79% in J-CTO score ≥2). ADR/RDR was used more commonly in complex lesions (J-CTO≤1 15% vs J-CTO ≥2 56%). Need for multiple approaches during each attempt increased with lesion complexity (17% J-CTO ≤1 vs 48% J-CTO ≥2). Lesion modification (‘investment procedures’) at the end of unsuccessful first attempts increased the chance of subsequent success (96% vs 71%). Conclusions Hybrid-trained operators can achieve overall success rates of 90% in real world practice with acceptable MACE. Use of dissection re-entry and investment procedures maintains high success rates in complex lesions. The hybrid approach represents a significant advance in CTO treatment.

The neprilysin pathway in heart failure: a review and guide on the use of sacubitril/valsartan

Abstract: Inhibition of neurohumoural pathways such as the renin angiotensin aldosterone and sympathetic nervous systems is central to the understanding and treatment of heart failure (HF). Conversely, until recently, potentially beneficial augmentation of neurohumoural systems such as the natriuretic peptides has had limited therapeutic success. Administration of synthetic natriuretic peptides has not improved outcomes in acute HF but modulation of the natriuretic system through inhibition of the enzyme that degrades natriuretic (and other vasoactive) peptides, neprilysin, has proven to be successful. After initial failures with neprilysin inhibition alone or dual neprilysin-angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition, the Prospective comparison of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) with ACEI to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and morbidity in Heart Failure trial (PARADIGM-HF) trial demonstrated that morbidity and mortality can be improved with the angiotensin receptor blocker neprilysin inhibitor sacubitril/valsartan (formerly LCZ696). In comparison to the ACE inhibitor enalapril, sacubitril/valsartan reduced the occurrence of the primary end point (cardiovascular death or hospitalisation for HF) by 20% with a 16% reduction in all-cause mortality. These findings suggest that sacubitril/valsartan should replace an ACE inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker as the foundation of treatment of symptomatic patients (NYHA II–IV) with HF and a reduced ejection fraction. This review will explore the background to neprilysin inhibition in HF, the results of the PARADIGM-HF trial and offer guidance on how to use sacubitril/valsartan in clinical practice.

Loneliness and social isolation as risk factors for CVD: implications for evidence-based patient care and scientific inquiry

Abstract: A recent meta-analysis has shown that loneliness and social isolation are risk factors for coronary heart disease and stroke.1 These latest findings, specific to cardiovascular outcomes, are consistent with substantial research indicating broad health risks (eg, immune functioning, cardiovascular functioning, cognitive decline) associated with the quantity and quality of social relationships—including several meta-analyses documenting mortality risk.2 ,3 In the most comprehensive of these,3 the overall odds for mortality was 1.50, similar to the risk from light smoking and exceeding the risks conferred by hypertension and obesity. Thus, the epidemiological data suggest that having more and better quality social relationships is linked to decreased health risks and having fewer and poorer quality relationships increased risk.2 ,3 Research has also documented the influence of social connections (including measures specific to loneliness and isolation) on multiple pathways involved in both the development and progression of coronary heart disease and stroke. As depicted in figure 1, these include lifestyle (eg, nutrition, physical activity, sleep),4 treatment adherence and cooperation,5 and direct effects on surrogate biological markers.6 ,7 Recent longitudinal data from four nationally representative US samples revealed a dose–response effect of social integration on several surrogate biomarkers of cardiovascular disease including hypertension, body mass index, waist circumference and inflammation (hs-CRP).6 Moreover, most epidemiological studies control for lifestyle factors (eg, smoking, physical activity), documenting an independent influence of social relationships on mortality. Taken together, these latest findings specific to loneliness and isolation1 bolster the already robust evidence documenting that social connections significantly predict morbidity and mortality, supporting the case for inclusion as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Figure 1 Simplified model of possible direct and indirect pathways by which social connections influence disease morbidity and mortality. How should these data inform clinical practice? …

Executive summary. Expert consensus statement on the diagnosis and treatment of paediatric pulmonary hypertension. The European Paediatric Pulmonary Vascular Disease Network, endorsed by ISHLT and DGPK

Abstract: The European Paediatric Pulmonary Vascular Disease (PVD) Network is a registered, non-profit organisation that strives to define and develop effective, innovative diagnostic methods and treatment options in all forms of paediatric pulmonary hypertensive vascular disease, including specific forms such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)-congenital heart disease, pulmonary hypertension (PH) associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, persistent PH of the newborn, and related cardiac dysfunction. Methods The writing group members conducted searches of the PubMed/MEDLINE bibliographic database (1990–2015) and held five face-to-face meetings with votings. Clinical trials, guidelines, and reviews limited to paediatric data were searched using the terms ‘pulmonary hypertension’ and 5–10 other keywords, as outlined in the other nine articles of this special issue. Class of recommendation (COR) and level of evidence (LOE) were assigned based on European Society of Cardiology/American Heart Association definitions and on paediatric data only, or on adult studies that included >10% children. Results A total of 9 original consensus articles with graded recommendations (COR/LOE) were developed, and are summarised here. The topics included diagnosis/monitoring, genetics/biomarker, cardiac catheterisation, echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance/chest CT, associated forms of PH, intensive care unit/ventricular assist device/lung transplantation, and treatment of paediatric PAH. Conclusions The multipaper expert consensus statement of the European Paediatric PVD Network provides a specific, comprehensive, detailed but practical framework for the optimal clinical care of children with PH.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection and its association with heritable connective tissue disorders

Abstract: Objective Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an under-recognised but important cause of myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death. We sought to determine the role of medical and molecular genetic screening for connective tissue disorders in patients with SCAD. Methods We performed a single-centre retrospective descriptive analysis of patients with spontaneous coronary artery disease who had undergone medical genetics evaluation 1984–2014 (n=116). The presence or absence of traits suggestive of heritable connective tissue disease was extracted. Genetic testing for connective tissue disorders and/or aortopathies, if performed, is also reported. Results Of the 116 patients (mean age 44.2 years, 94.8% women and 41.4% with non-coronary fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD)), 59 patients underwent genetic testing, of whom 3 (5.1%) received a diagnosis of connective tissue disorder: a 50-year-old man with Marfan syndrome; a 43-year-old woman with vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome and FMD; and a 45-year-old woman with vascular Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. An additional 12 patients (20.3%) had variants of unknown significance, none of which was thought to be a definite disease-causing mutation based on in silico analyses. Conclusions Only a minority of patients with SCAD who undergo genetic evaluation have a likely pathogenic mutation identified on gene panel testing. Even fewer exhibit clinical features of connective tissue disorder. These findings underscore the need for further studies to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of SCAD.

Myocardial deformation parameters predict outcome in patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot

Abstract: Background Parameters of myocardial deformation have been suggested to be superior to conventional measures of ventricular function and to predict outcome in repaired tetralogy of Fallot (ToF). We aimed to test the hypothesis that parameters of myocardial deformation on cardiac MRI (CMR) relate to symptoms and provide prognostic information in patients with repaired ToF. Methods and results We included 372 patients with ToF (median age 16 years; 55% male), recruited within a nationwide, prospective study. Longitudinal (LS), circumferential (CS) and radial global strain (RS) were analysed by CMR-based feature tracking (FT). A combined endpoint of death, successful resuscitation or documented ventricular tachycardia was employed. Parameters of global strain were associated with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and symptomatic deterioration. During a median follow-up of 7.4 years, 20 events occurred. Left ventricular (LV) CS and right ventricular (RV) LS emerged as predictors of outcome, independent of QRS duration, LV/RV ejection fraction and volumes, NYHA class and peak oxygen uptake. In combination, these parameters also identified a subgroup of patients at significantly increased risk of adverse of outcomes (HR 3.3, p=0.002). Furthermore, LV LS, RS, CS and RV LS were related to the risk of death and nearly missed death (p Conclusions FT-CMR provides myocardial deformation parameters, easily derived from standard CMR studies. They relate to symptoms and clinical deterioration in patients with ToF. More importantly, they predict adverse outcome independent of established risk markers, and should be considered as a useful adjunct to established outcome predictors, especially in younger patients with ToF. Clinical trial registration number http://www.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT00266188; Results.

Influenza vaccine as a coronary intervention for prevention of myocardial infarction

Abstract: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Influenza is one of the leading infectious causes of morbidity and mortality globally, and evidence is accumulating that it can precipitate acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This is thought to be due to a range of factors including inflammatory release of cytokines, disruption of atherosclerotic plaques and thrombogenesis, which may acutely occlude a coronary artery. There is a large body of observational and clinical trial evidence that shows that influenza vaccine protects against AMI. Estimates of the efficacy of influenza vaccine in preventing AMI range from 15% to 45%. This is a similar range of efficacy compared with the accepted routine coronary prevention measures such as smoking cessation (32–43%), statins (19–30%) and antihypertensive therapy (17–25%). Influenza vaccine should be considered as an integral part of CVD management and prevention. While it is recommended in many guidelines for patients with CVD, rates of vaccination in risk groups aged <65 years are very low, in the range of 30%. The incorporation of vaccination into routine CVD prevention in patient care requires a clinical practice paradigm change.

Gender differences in coronary heart disease

Abstract: ### Learning objectives The importance of coronary heart disease (CHD) as a disease of both genders tends to be underappreciated, although in 2014 CHD claimed almost three times more lives than breast cancer. Just below one in five male deaths and one in ten female deaths were attributed to CHD. The British Heart Foundation's report in that same year states that CHD by itself is the biggest single cause of death in the UK.1 In general, women with CHD have worse outcomes than their male counterparts when no adjustments are made for other characteristics and comorbidities. Women tend to present with coronary artery disease later in life, and even when they present young they tend to receive less evidence-based treatment than their male counterparts.2 An important question is whether gender per se predisposes to higher cardiovascular risk. Much of the research in this field has been in the setting of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), with conflicting evidence from different studies. Some studies reported that gender is an independent risk factor for worse outcomes,3 while …

Prognostic implication of relative regional strain ratio in cardiac amyloidosis

Abstract: Objective Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is a rapidly progressive disease that portends poor prognosis. Our objective was to evaluate the prognostic impact of relative regional strain ratio (RRSR, a measure of the relative apical sparing of longitudinal strain (LS)) in CA. Methods This is a retrospective study evaluating 97 patients with CA from 2004 to 2013. Patients were included if they met criteria for CA based on endomyocardial biopsy or advanced imaging criteria coupled with either extracardiac biopsy or genetic analysis. Baseline clinical and imaging data were collected and compared between light-chain amyloidosis (AL) (n=59) and transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) (n=38) subtypes. RRSR was defined as the average apical LS divided by the sum of the average mid and basal LS values. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the effects of clinical and echocardiographic characteristics, including RRSR, on the outcome of time to death or heart transplantation. Results Despite younger age, the AL subtype had a statistically significant association with the composite outcome as compared with ATTR (p=0.022). Log-transformed RRSR was independently associated with the composite outcome at 5 years (HR 2.45 (1.36 to 4.40), p=0.003). Patients with low ejection fraction and high RRSR had the worst prognosis. In multivariable analysis, RRSR remained predictive of the primary outcome (p=0.018). Addition of covariates related to systolic function (global LS and ejection fraction) to the model attenuated this effect. Conclusions High RRSR is adversely prognostic in patients with cardiac amyloid. This novel tool is both diagnostic and prognostic and may have implications in management and suitability for treatment.

Early β-blocker use and in-hospital mortality in patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy

Abstract: Objective A catecholamine-mediated mechanism has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC). However, the impact of β-blockers in acute-phase management of TC remains uncertain. This study aimed to examine whether early β-blocker use in TC was associated with lower in-hospital mortality. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study using the Diagnosis Procedure Combination nationwide inpatient database in Japan. Patients with TC aged ≥20 years who were admitted to acute-care hospitals between 2010 and 2014 were identified. Thirty-day in-hospital mortality was compared between patients who started β-blocker therapy on hospitalisation day 1 or 2 (early β-blocker group) and those who did not receive a β-blocker during hospitalisation (control group) using propensity score-matching and instrumental variable analyses. Results Of 2672 eligible patients (female, 81.5%; 423 early β-blocker therapy, 2249 controls) from 615 hospitals, 1:4 propensity score-matching created a cohort of 2110 patients (422 early β-blocker therapy, 1688 controls). There was no significant difference in 30-day in-hospital mortality between the early β-blocker group and control group (2.4% vs 2.0%, p=0.703; risk difference, 0.4%; 95% CI, −1.2% to 2.0%). Logistic regression analysis did not show a significant association between early β-blocker use and 30-day in-hospital mortality (OR, 1.17; 95% CI 0.58 to 2.37). Instrumental variable analysis also found that early β-blocker use was not associated with lower 30-day in-hospital mortality (risk difference, 1.2%; 95% CI −3.1% to 5.5%). Conclusions This study found no significant association between early β-blocker use and in-hospital mortality in patients with TC.

Cardiac rehabilitation delivery model for low-resource settings

Abstract: Objective Cardiovascular disease is a global epidemic, which is largely preventable. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is demonstrated to be cost-effective and efficacious in high-income countries. CR could represent an important approach to mitigate the epidemic of cardiovascular disease in lower-resource settings. The purpose of this consensus statement was to review low-cost approaches to delivering the core components of CR, to propose a testable model of CR which could feasibly be delivered in middle-income countries. Methods A literature review regarding delivery of each core CR component, namely: (1) lifestyle risk factor management (ie, physical activity, diet, tobacco and mental health), (2) medical risk factor management (eg, lipid control, blood pressure control), (3) education for self-management and (4) return to work, in low-resource settings was undertaken. Recommendations were developed based on identified articles, using a modified GRADE approach where evidence in a low-resource setting was available, or consensus where evidence was not. Results Available data on cost of CR delivery in low-resource settings suggests it is not feasible to deliver CR in low-resource settings as is delivered in high-resource ones. Strategies which can be implemented to deliver all of the core CR components in low-resource settings were summarised in practice recommendations, and approaches to patient assessment proffered. It is suggested that CR be adapted by delivery by non-physician healthcare workers, in non-clinical settings. Conclusions Advocacy to achieve political commitment for broad delivery of adapted CR services in low-resource settings is needed.

Hypereosinophilic syndrome: cardiac diagnosis and management

Abstract: Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is a heterogeneous group of conditions that is defined at its core by hypereosinophilia (HE) (blood eosinophil count of >1.5×10(9)/L) and organ damage directly attributable to the HE. Cardiac dysfunction occurs frequently in all forms of HES and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Once a significantly elevated eosinophil count is identified, it must be confirmed on repeat testing and the aetiology for the HE must be rigorously sought out with a focus on identifying whether organ dysfunction is occurring. Echocardiography is routinely performed to assess for cardiac involvement, looking for evidence of left ventricular and/or right ventricular apical obliteration or thrombi or a restrictive cardiomyopathy. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and CT are often useful adjuncts to establish the diagnosis but endomyocardial biopsy remains the gold standard. To decrease the degree of eosinophilia, treatment can include corticosteroids and/or imatinib based on the aetiology. Anticoagulation, standard heart failure therapy for a restrictive cardiomyopathy and finally cardiac transplantation may be indicated in the treatment algorithm.

Prolonged PR interval, first-degree heart block and adverse cardiovascular outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract: Objective First-degree atrioventricular block is frequently encountered in clinical practice and is generally considered a benign process. However, there is emerging evidence that prolonged PR interval may be associated with adverse outcomes. This study aims to determine if prolonged PR interval is associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes and mortality. Methods We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for studies that evaluated clinical outcomes associated with prolonged and normal PR intervals. Relevant studies were pooled using random effects meta-analysis for risk of mortality, cardiovascular mortality, heart failure, coronary heart disease, atrial fibrillation and stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA). Sensitivity analyses were performed considering the population type and the use of adjustments. Results Our search yielded 14 studies that were undertaken between 1972 and 2011 with 400 750 participants. Among the studies that adjusted for potential confounders, the pooled results suggest an increased risk of mortality with prolonged PR interval risk ratio (RR) 1.24 95% CI 1.02 to 1.51, five studies. Prolonged PR interval was associated with significant risk of heart failure or left ventricular dysfunction (RR 1.39 95% CI 1.18 to 1.65, three studies) and atrial fibrillation (RR 1.45 95% CI 1.23 to 1.71, eight studies) but not cardiovascular mortality, coronary heart disease or myocardial infarction or stroke or TIA. Similar observations were recorded when limited to studies of first-degree heart block. Conclusions Data from observational studies suggests a possible association between prolonged PR interval and significant increases in atrial fibrillation, heart failure and mortality. Future prospective studies are needed to confirm the relationships reported, consider possible mechanisms and define the optimal monitoring strategy for such patients.

Diagnosis and treatment of cardiac sarcoidosis

Abstract: Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease of unknown aetiology. The frequency of cardiac involvement (cardiac sarcoidosis (CS)) varies in the different geographical regions, but it has been reported that it is an absolutely important prognostic factor in this disease. Complete atrioventricular block is the most common, and ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation the second most common arrhythmia in this disease, both of which are associated with cardiac sudden death. Diagnosing CS is sometimes difficult because of the non-specific ECG and echocardiographic findings, and CS is sometimes misdiagnosed as dilated cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy or an idiopathic ventricular aneurysm, and therefore, endomyocardial biopsy is important, but has a low sensitivity. Another problem is the recognition of isolated types of CS. Recently, MRI and (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography have been demonstrated to be useful tools for the non-invasive diagnosis of CS as well as therapeutic evaluation tools, but are still unsatisfactory. Treatment of CS is usually done by corticosteroid therapy to control inflammation, prevent fibrosis and protect from any deterioration of the cardiac function, but the long-term outcome is still in debate. Despite the advancement of non-pharmacological approaches for CS (pacing, defibrillators and catheter ablation) to improve the prognosis, there are still many issues remaining to resolve diagnosing and managing CS. Here, we attempt a review of the clinical evidence, with special focus on the current understanding of this disease and showing the current strategies and remaining problems of diagnosing and managing CS.

Handheld echocardiographic screening for rheumatic heart disease by non-experts.

Abstract: Objectives Handheld echocardiography (HAND) has good sensitivity and specificity for rheumatic heart disease (RHD) when performed by cardiologists. However, physician shortages in RHD-endemic areas demand less-skilled users to make RHD screening practical. We examine nurse performance and interpretation of HAND using a simplified approach for RHD screening. Methods Two nurses received training on HAND and a simplified screening approach. Consented students at two schools in Uganda were eligible for participation. A simplified approach (HAND performed and interpreted by a non-expert) was compared with the reference standard (standard portable echocardiography, performed and interpreted by experts according to the 2012 World Heart Federation guidelines). Reasons for false-positive and false-negative HAND studies were identified. Results A total of 1002 children were consented, with 956 (11.1 years, 41.8% male) having complete data for review. Diagnoses included: 913 (95.5%) children were classified normal, 32 (3.3%) borderline RHD and 11 (1.2%) definite RHD. The simplified approach had a sensitivity of 74.4% (58.8% to 86.5%) and a specificity of 78.8% (76.0% to 81.4%) for any RHD (borderline and definite). Sensitivity improved to 90.9% (58.7% to 98.5%) for definite RHD. Identification and measurement of erroneous colour jets was the most common reason for false-positive studies (n=164/194), while missed mitral regurgitation and shorter regurgitant jet lengths with HAND were the most common reasons for false-negative studies (n=10/11). Conclusions Non-expert-led HAND screening programmes offer a potential solution to financial and workforce barriers that limit widespread RHD screening. Nurses trained on HAND using a simplified approach had reasonable sensitivity and specificity for RHD screening. Information on reasons for false-negative and false-positive screening studies should be used to inform future training protocols, which could lead to improved screening performance.

Radiation-induced valvular heart disease

Abstract: Radiation to the mediastinum is a key component of treatment with curative intent for a range of cancers including Hodgkin's lymphoma and breast cancer. Exposure to radiation is associated with a risk of radiation-induced heart valve damage characterised by valve fibrosis and calcification. There is a latent interval of 10-20 years between radiation exposure and development of clinically significant heart valve disease. Risk is related to radiation dose received, interval from exposure and use of concomitant chemotherapy. Long-term outlook and the risk of valve surgery are related to the effects of radiation on mediastinal structures including pulmonary fibrosis and pericardial constriction. Dose prediction models to predict the risk of heart valve disease in the future and newer radiation techniques to reduce the radiation dose to the heart are being developed. Surveillance strategies for this cohort of cancer survivors at risk of developing significant heart valve complications are required.

Early versus late surgical intervention or medical management for infective endocarditis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract: Objective Infective endocarditis is associated with high morbidity and mortality and optimal timing for surgical intervention is unclear. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare early surgical intervention with conservative therapy in patients with infective endocarditis. Methods PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE, CINAHL and Google-scholar databases were searched from January 1960 to April 2015. Randomised controlled trials, retrospective cohorts and prospective observational studies comparing outcomes between early surgery at 20 days or less and conservative management for infective endocarditis were analysed. Results A total of 21 studies were included. OR of all-cause mortality for early surgery was 0.61 (95% CI 0.50 to 0.74, p Conclusion The results of our meta-analysis suggest that early surgical intervention is associated with significantly lower risk of mortality in patients with infective endocarditis.

Validation of presentation and 3 h high-sensitivity troponin to rule-in and rule-out acute myocardial infarction

Abstract: Free to read Abstract Objective International guidelines to rule-in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients presenting with chest pain to the emergency department (ED) recommend an algorithm using high-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn) sampling on presentation and 3 h following presentation. We tested the diagnostic accuracy of this algorithm by pooling data from five distinct cohorts from three countries of prospectively recruited patients with independently adjudicated outcomes. Method We measured high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) on presentation (0 h) and 3 h post-presentation samples in adult patients attending an ED with possible AMI to validate the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Working Group on Acute Cardiac Care rule-in algorithm (ESC-rule-in). Specifically, (i) in patients with a 0 h hs-cTn concentration ≤99th percentile and a 3 h hs-cTn >99th percentile, positive patients are those with an absolute change in troponin ≥50% of the 99th percentile, and (ii) in patients with a 0 and 3 h hs-cTn >99th percentile, positive patients are those with a relative change in troponin of ≥20%. We concurrently assessed the efficacy of the 0 and 3 h hs-cTn <99th percentile to rule-out AMI. Results 1061 patients with hs-cTnI and 985 with hs-cTnT were included. The ESC-rule-in positive predictive value (PPV) was 83.5% (95% CI 74.9% to 90.1%) for hs-cTnI and 72.0% (95% CI 62.1% to 80.5%) for hs-cTnT. Forty-six AMIs (34.9%) were not ruled in using hs-cTnI and 62 (46.2%) using hs-cTnT. The sensitivity of the 99th percentile to rule-out AMI was 93.2% (95% CI 87.5% to 96.8%) for hs-cTnI and 94.8% (95% CI 89.5% to 97.9%) for hs-cTnT. Conclusions The ESC-rule-in algorithm has good PPV with hs-cTnI and reasonable with hs-cTnT and can rule-in over 50% of AMIs. However, the sensitivity of the 99th percentile to rule-out AMI is too low for clinical use.