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Keywords = ischemic mitral regurgitation

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24 pages, 6608 KiB  
Article
The Link Between Left Atrial Longitudinal Reservoir Strain and Mitral Annulus Geometry in Patients with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
by Despina-Manuela Toader, Alina Paraschiv, Diana Ruxandra Hădăreanu, Maria Iovănescu, Oana Mirea, Andreea Vasile and Alina-Craciun Mirescu
Biomedicines 2025, 13(7), 1753; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13071753 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 241
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Anatomical and functional damage of the mitral valve (MV) apparatus in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is secondary to left ventricular (LV) injury, leading to functional mitral regurgitation (FMR). Real-time four-dimensional echocardiography (RT 4DE) is a useful imaging technique in different [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Anatomical and functional damage of the mitral valve (MV) apparatus in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is secondary to left ventricular (LV) injury, leading to functional mitral regurgitation (FMR). Real-time four-dimensional echocardiography (RT 4DE) is a useful imaging technique in different pathologies, including DCM. Left atrial (LA) strain, as measured by left atrium quantification software, is an accurate technique for evaluating increased filling pressure. The MV has a complex three-dimensional morphology and motion. Four-dimensional echocardiography (4DE) has revolutionized clinical imaging of the mitral valve apparatus. This study aims (1) to characterize the mitral annulus (MA) parameters in patients with DCM and advanced-stage heart failure (HF) according to etiology and (2) to find correlations between left atrial function and MA remodeling in this group of patients, using 4DE quantification software. Methods: A total of 82 patients with DCM and an LV ejection fraction ≤ 40% were recruited. Conventional 2DE and RT 4DE were conducted in DCM patients with a compensated phase of HF before discharge. The measured parameters were left atrial reservoir strain (LASr), annular area (AA), annular perimeter (AP), anteroposterior diameter (A-Pd), posteromedial to anterolateral diameter (PM-ALd), commissural distance (CD), interregional distance (ITD), annular height (AH), nonplanar angle (NPA), tenting height (TH), tenting area (TA), and tenting volume (TV). Results: Measured parameters revealed more advanced damage of LA and MA parameters in ischemic compared to nonischemic etiology. Univariate analysis identified AA, AP, A-Pd, PM-ALd, CD, ITD, TH, TA, and TV (p < 0.0001) as determinants of LASr. Including these parameters in a stepwise multivariate logistic regression, PM-ALd (p = 0.03), TH (p = 0.043), and TV (p = 0.0001) were the best predictors of LAsr in these patients. Conclusions: The results of this study revealed the correlation between LA function depression and MA remodeling in patients with DCM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)
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17 pages, 1247 KiB  
Article
Ischemic Mitral Valve Regurgitation in Patients Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting—Early and Late-Term Outcomes of Surgical Treatment
by Paweł Walerowicz, Mirosław Brykczyński, Aleksandra Szylińska and Jerzy Pacholewicz
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 4855; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14144855 - 9 Jul 2025
Viewed by 710
Abstract
Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains the most prevalent pathology within the circulatory system. Among its chronic complications, ischemic mitral valve regurgitation (IMR) is observed in approximately 15% of patients with sustained myocardial ischemia. The presence of this complex valvular defect significantly increases [...] Read more.
Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains the most prevalent pathology within the circulatory system. Among its chronic complications, ischemic mitral valve regurgitation (IMR) is observed in approximately 15% of patients with sustained myocardial ischemia. The presence of this complex valvular defect significantly increases both overall mortality and the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events. Notably, the presence of moderate to severe mitral regurgitation in patients undergoing surgical revascularization has been shown to double the risk of death. Despite the well-established etiology of IMR, data regarding the efficacy of surgical interventions and the determinants of postoperative outcomes remain inconclusive. Methods: The objective of the present study was to evaluate both early and long-term outcomes of surgical treatment of mitral regurgitation in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) due to ischemic heart disease. Particular attention was given to the influence of the severity of regurgitation, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and the dimensions of the left atrium (LA) and left ventricle (LV) on the postoperative prognosis. An additional aim was to identify preoperative risk factors associated with increased postoperative mortality and morbidity. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 421 patients diagnosed with ischemic mitral regurgitation who underwent concomitant mitral valve surgery and CABG. Exclusion criteria included emergent and urgent procedures as well as non-ischemic etiologies of mitral valve dysfunction. Results: The study cohort comprised 34.9% women and 65.1% men, with the mean age of 65.7 years (±7.57). A substantial proportion (76.7%) of patients were aged over 60 years. More than half (51.5%) presented with severe heart failure symptoms, classified as NYHA class III or IV, while over 70% were categorized as CCS class II or III. Among the surgical procedures performed, 344 patients underwent mitral valve repair, and 77 patients required mitral valve replacement. Additionally, 119 individuals underwent concomitant tricuspid valve repair. Short-term survival was significantly affected by the presence of hypertension, prior cerebrovascular events, and chronic kidney disease. In contrast, hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were identified as significant predictors of adverse late-term outcomes. Conclusions: Interestingly, neither the preoperative severity of mitral regurgitation nor the echocardiographic measurements of LA and LV dimensions were found to significantly influence surgical outcomes. The perioperative risk, as assessed by the EuroSCORE II (average score: 10.0%), corresponded closely with observed mortality rates following mitral valve repair (9.9%) and replacement (10.4%). Notably, the need for concomitant tricuspid valve surgery was associated with an elevated mortality rate (12.4%). Furthermore, the preoperative echocardiographic evaluation of LA regurgitation severity, as well as LA and LV dimensions, did not exhibit a statistically significant impact on either early or long-term surgical outcomes. However, a reduced LVEF was correlated with increased long-term mortality. The presence of advanced clinical symptoms and the necessity for tricuspid valve repair were independently associated with a poorer late-term prognosis. Importantly, the annual mortality rate observed in the late-term follow-up of patients who underwent surgical treatment of ischemic mitral regurgitation was lower than rates reported in the literature for patients managed conservatively. The EuroSCORE II scale proved to be a reliable and precise tool in predicting surgical risk and outcomes in this patient population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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24 pages, 7668 KiB  
Review
Diagnosis and Diagnostic Challenges of Secondary Mitral Regurgitation in the Era of Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair of the Mitral Valve
by Yusef B. Saeed, Kyra Deep, Andreas Hagendorff and Bhupendar Tayal
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(13), 4518; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14134518 - 26 Jun 2025
Viewed by 2175
Abstract
Secondary mitral regurgitation (sMR) is commonly understood to be secondary to heart failure (HF), left ventricular (LV) dilation, and altered coaptation of the mitral annulus. Three forms of sMR exist: non-ischemic sMR, ischemic sMR, and atrial functional sMR. In the past, there have [...] Read more.
Secondary mitral regurgitation (sMR) is commonly understood to be secondary to heart failure (HF), left ventricular (LV) dilation, and altered coaptation of the mitral annulus. Three forms of sMR exist: non-ischemic sMR, ischemic sMR, and atrial functional sMR. In the past, there have been limited treatment options for this condition besides medication. Recently, the management of sMR has been revolutionized by the recent advances in percutaneous transcatheter edge-to-edge repair of the mitral valve (m-TEER). However, the major trials investigating this technology have shown that appropriate patient selection is of critical importance to achieve benefit. As such, there is a renewed interest in the accurate diagnosis of sMR. Herein, we review the etiology, management, and diagnosis of sMR in the era m-TEER. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Developments in Mitral Valve Repair)
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12 pages, 2400 KiB  
Article
Prognostic Value of the Global Left Ventricular Contractility Index in Patients with Severe Mitral Regurgitation and Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction
by Tony Li, Vinay B. Panday, Jessele Lai, Nicholas Gao, Beth Lim, Aloysius Leow, Sarah Tan, Quek Swee Chye, Ching Hui Sia, William Kong, Tiong Cheng Yeo, Ru San Tan, Liang Zhong and Kian Keong Poh
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2025, 12(6), 227; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd12060227 - 13 Jun 2025
Viewed by 380
Abstract
Introduction: Assessment of left ventricular (LV) systolic function is important in valvular heart disease. The global LV contractility index, dσ*/dtmax, is load-independent and has been reported to be associated with clinical outcomes in heart failure and aortic stenosis. We aim to [...] Read more.
Introduction: Assessment of left ventricular (LV) systolic function is important in valvular heart disease. The global LV contractility index, dσ*/dtmax, is load-independent and has been reported to be associated with clinical outcomes in heart failure and aortic stenosis. We aim to assess if dσ*/dtmax could predict adverse outcomes in patients with severe mitral regurgitation (MR). Methodology: We studied dσ*/dtmax in a cohort of 127 patients with isolated severe primary MR and preserved LVEF ≥ 60%. Patients with prior valvular intervention or concurrent valvular disease were excluded. We tested dσ*/dtmax against a composite of adverse outcomes including all-cause mortality, heart failure hospitalization, and mitral valve intervention. Results: The cohort had a mean age of 58 years old and was predominantly male. Of the 127 patients, eight (6.3%) needed subsequent hospitalization for heart failure, while 30 (23.6%) and 11 (8.7%) patients underwent mitral valve repair and replacement, respectively, And 14 (11.0%) passed away. Of the patients (n = 54 (42.5%)) who had an adverse outcome during follow-up, dσ*/dtmax demonstrated an independent association with composite adverse outcome, including its individual components. On ROC analysis, a cut-off of 2.15 s−1 was identified. Based on this cut-off, dσ*/dtmax retained an independent association with composite adverse outcome after adjusting for covariates including age, sex, ischemic heart disease, pulmonary artery systolic pressure, and left ventricular end systolic diameter. Conclusions: In patients with severe primary MR and preserved LVEF, reduced dσ*/dtmax was an independent predictor of adverse outcomes. It can be a useful addition to the armamentarium for assessing patients with severe MR. Full article
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16 pages, 3551 KiB  
Review
Upstream and Downstream Cardiovascular Changes in Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis: An Update
by Estu Rudiktyo, Arco J. Teske, Emir Yonas, Ade M. Ambari, Maarten J. Cramer, Marco Guglielmo, Tommaso Semino, Bambang Budi Siswanto, Pieter A. Doevendans and Amiliana M. Soesanto
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(8), 2639; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14082639 - 11 Apr 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 899
Abstract
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and its complications are major health problems worldwide, especially in developing countries, owing to their high prevalence. Mitral stenosis (MS) is one of the most common lesions in RHD, either isolated or in combination with mitral regurgitation, and eventually [...] Read more.
Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) and its complications are major health problems worldwide, especially in developing countries, owing to their high prevalence. Mitral stenosis (MS) is one of the most common lesions in RHD, either isolated or in combination with mitral regurgitation, and eventually leads to atrial fibrillation (AF), congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and other complications, including ischemic stroke or limb ischemia, if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Recent studies have suggested that MS affects the cardiovascular system beyond mere obstructions. The presence of MS in RHD causes significant changes in the cardiovascular system, both upstream and downstream, affecting both the left and right ventricles. Rheumatic MS causes significant structural changes through inflammatory pathways and hemodynamic changes, owing to its obstructive effects. This review aims to discuss the vast changes in the cardiovascular system caused by rheumatic MS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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14 pages, 1315 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Outcomes of Mitral Valve Repair Versus Replacement in Patients with Ischemic Mitral Regurgitation: A Retrospective Propensity-Matched Analysis
by Ismail M. Elnagar, Rawan Alghamdi, Murtadha H. Alawami, Ahmad Alshammari, Abdulmalik A. Almedimigh, Monirah A. Albabtain, Alaa AlGhamdi, Huda H. Ismail, Mostafa A. Shalaby, Khaled A. Alotaibi and Amr A. Arafat
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2025, 12(4), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd12040109 - 22 Mar 2025
Viewed by 842
Abstract
Background: The optimal surgical management of ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR)—mitral valve repair (MVr) versus mitral valve replacement (MVR)—remains controversial, with limited evidence on long-term outcomes. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of MVr and MVR in patients with IMR, focusing on survival [...] Read more.
Background: The optimal surgical management of ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR)—mitral valve repair (MVr) versus mitral valve replacement (MVR)—remains controversial, with limited evidence on long-term outcomes. This study aimed to compare the outcomes of MVr and MVR in patients with IMR, focusing on survival and recurrence of mitral regurgitation. Additionally, survival was compared based on preoperative characteristics. Methods: A retrospective cohort analysis was conducted at a tertiary referral center and included 759 patients who underwent surgery for IMR between 2009 and 2021. Propensity score matching identified 140 matched pairs. The outcomes assessed included hospital mortality, long-term survival, recurrence of mitral regurgitation, mitral valve reintervention rates, and echocardiographic changes over time. Results: In the matched cohort, no significant differences were observed in hospital mortality (10% for MVr vs. 10.7% for MVR, p > 0.99) or long-term survival (p = 0.534). However, MVr was associated with a higher rate of recurrent moderate or higher mitral regurgitation (29.04% vs. 10.37%, p < 0.001) compared to MVR. The mitral valve reintervention rates did not differ significantly between the groups. Echocardiographic follow-up revealed significant improvements in left ventricular function and dimensions, with no significant differences between the groups. A subgroup analysis revealed no difference in survival according to the age, gender, ejection fraction, EuroSCORE category, or right ventricular function between the MVr and MVR patients. Conclusions: MVr and MVR for IMR yielded comparable survival rates, but MVr was associated with a higher risk of recurrent MR. The efficacy of both surgical approaches across diverse patient populations was comparable, reinforcing the need for individualized decision-making based on other clinical and anatomical considerations. Full article
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45 pages, 2291 KiB  
Article
Quasi-Experimental Design for Medical Studies with the Method of the Fuzzy Pseudo-Control Group
by Kiril Tenekedjiev, Daniela Panayotova, Mohamed Daboos, Snejana Ivanova, Mark Symes, Plamen Panayotov and Natalia Nikolova
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 1370; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15031370 - 28 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1070
Abstract
(1) Background: Let the continuous parameter X be a proxy variable for the outcome of an intervention R. Quasi-experimental studies are designed to evaluate the effect of R over X when forming a randomized control group (without the intervention) is impractical or/and unethical. [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Let the continuous parameter X be a proxy variable for the outcome of an intervention R. Quasi-experimental studies are designed to evaluate the effect of R over X when forming a randomized control group (without the intervention) is impractical or/and unethical. The most popular quasi-experimental design, the difference-in-differences (DID) method, uses four samples of X values (pre- and post-intervention experimental and pseudo-control groups). DID always quantitatively evaluates the effect of R over X. However, its practical significance is restricted by several (often unprovable) assumptions and by the monotonic preference requirement over X. We propose a novel fuzzy quasi-experimental computational approach that addresses those limitations. (2) Methods: A novel method of the fuzzy pseudo-control group (MFPCG) is introduced and formalized. It uses four fuzzy samples as input, exactly the same as DID. We practically determine and statistically compare the favorability of the differences in X before and after the intervention for the experimental and the pseudo-control groups in case of the more general hill preferences over X. MFPCG applies four modifications of fuzzy Bootstrap procedures to perform each of the nine statistical tests used. The new method does not use the assumptions of DID, but it does not always produce a positive or a negative answer, as MFPCG results are qualitative. It is not a competing methodology; as such, it should be used alongside DID. (3) Results: We assess the effect of annuloplasty that acts in conjunction with revascularization over two continuous parameters that characterize the condition of patients with ischemic heart disease complicated by moderate and moderate-to-severe ischemic mitral regurgitation. (4) Conclusions: The statistical results proved the favorable effect of annuloplasty on two parameters, both for patients with a relatively preserved medical state and patients with a relatively deteriorated medical state. We validate the MFPCG solution of the case study by comparing them with those from the fuzzy DID. We discuss the limitations and adaptability of MFPCG, which should warrant its use in other case studies and domains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Decision Making in Clinical Medicine)
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11 pages, 7790 KiB  
Article
Three-Dimensional Modelling of Indexed Papillary Muscle Displacement in Patients Requiring Mitral Valve Surgery Using Four-Dimensional Echocardiography Variables
by Zhi Xian Ong, Ashlynn Ai Li Ler, Liang Shen, Theo Kofidis, Lian-Kah Ti and Faizus Sazzad
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(24), 7503; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13247503 - 10 Dec 2024
Viewed by 828
Abstract
Background: Two-dimensional and three-dimensional echocardiographic imaging are commonly used in assessing ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) and degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR) in patients with mitral valve disease. However, the use of 4D echocardiographic imaging has not yet been reported. The objectives of this [...] Read more.
Background: Two-dimensional and three-dimensional echocardiographic imaging are commonly used in assessing ischemic mitral regurgitation (IMR) and degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR) in patients with mitral valve disease. However, the use of 4D echocardiographic imaging has not yet been reported. The objectives of this study were to explore the efficacy of utilizing 4D echocardiographic variables, determine papillary muscle displacement in patients with either IMR or DMR, and compare the differences in papillary muscle displacement between groups. Methods: Thirty-four patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (with IMR) and Group 2 (with DMR). Using clinical ultrasound software, 4D echocardiographic variables were obtained and compared between the groups. Pearson’s product–moment correlation test was used to assess the relationship between the presence of IMR and both papillary muscle displacement and indexed papillary muscle displacement. Results: The mean values for papillary muscle displacement in Groups 1 and 2 were 38 ± 6.7 mm and 31.8 ± 6.1 mm, respectively. Indexed papillary muscle displacement was 22.8 ± 3.7 mm in Group 1 and 18.4 ± 3.5 mm in Group 2. There were statistically significant correlations between the presence of IMR and papillary muscle displacement (p = 0.009) and indexed papillary muscle displacement (p = 0.002). A significant correlation was also observed between IMR and PL (p = 0.001), with mean values of 15.7 ± 3.9 mm in Group 1 and 20.2 ± 5.6 mm in Group 2. Conclusions: Four-dimensional echocardiography is effective in evaluating morphological variations in IMR. It successfully determined papillary muscle displacement in patients undergoing mitral valve surgery and demonstrated a positive correlation between IMR and indexed papillary muscle displacement. Full article
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14 pages, 7910 KiB  
Article
Pulsatile Left Ventricular Assistance in High-Risk Percutaneous Coronary Interventions: Short-Term Outcomes
by Josko Bulum, Marcelo B. Bastos, Ota Hlinomaz, Oren Malkin, Tomasz Pawlowski, Milan Dragula and Robert Gil
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(18), 5357; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13185357 - 10 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1896
Abstract
Objectives: To document the real-world experience with the use of pneumatic pulsatile mechanical circulatory support (MCS) with the PulseCath iVAC2L during high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions (HR-PCIs). Background: The use of MCS in HR-PCIs may reduce the rate of major adverse cardiovascular events [...] Read more.
Objectives: To document the real-world experience with the use of pneumatic pulsatile mechanical circulatory support (MCS) with the PulseCath iVAC2L during high-risk percutaneous coronary interventions (HR-PCIs). Background: The use of MCS in HR-PCIs may reduce the rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) at 90 days. The PulseCath iVAC2L is a short-term pulsatile transaortic left ventricular (LV) assist device that has been in use since 2014. The iVAC2L Registry tracks its safety and efficacy in a variety of hospitals worldwide. Methods: The iVAC2L Registry is a multicenter, observational registry that aggregates clinical data from patients treated with the iVAC2L worldwide. A total of 293 consecutive cases were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Estimated rates of in-hospital clinical endpoints were described. All-cause mortality was used as the primary endpoint and other outcomes of interest were used as secondary endpoints. The rates obtained were reported and contextualized. Results: The in-hospital rate of all-cause mortality was 1.0%, MACE was 3.1%. Severe hypotension occurred in 8.9% of patients. Major bleeding and major vascular complications occurred in 1.0% and 2.1%, respectively. Acute myocardial infarction occurred in 0.7% of patients. Cerebrovascular events occurred in 1.4% of patients. Cardiac arrest occurred in 1.7% of patients. A statistically significant improvement in blood pressure was observed with iVAC2L activation. Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that the iVAC2L is capable of improving hemodynamics with a low rate of adverse events. However, confirmatory studies are needed to validate these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Management of Patients with Heart Failure)
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12 pages, 843 KiB  
Article
Left Atrium Reverse Remodeling in Fusion CRT Pacing: Implications in Cardiac Resynchronization Response and Atrial Fibrillation Incidence
by Cristina Văcărescu, Dragoș Cozma, Simina Crișan, Dan Gaiță, Debora-Delia Anutoni, Mădălin-Marius Margan, Adelina-Andreea Faur-Grigori, Romina Roteliuc, Silvia-Ana Luca, Mihai-Andrei Lazăr, Oana Pătru, Liviu Cirin, Petru Baneu and Constantin-Tudor Luca
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(16), 4814; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13164814 - 15 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1499
Abstract
Background: When compared to biventricular pacing, fusion CRT pacing was linked to a decreased incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF). There is a gap in the knowledge regarding exclusive fusion CRT without interference with RV pacing, and all the current data are based [...] Read more.
Background: When compared to biventricular pacing, fusion CRT pacing was linked to a decreased incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF). There is a gap in the knowledge regarding exclusive fusion CRT without interference with RV pacing, and all the current data are based on populations of patients with intermittent fusion pacing. Purpose: To assess left atrium remodeling and AF incidence in a real-life population of permanent fusion CRT-P. Methods: Retrospective data were analyzed from a cohort of patients with exclusive fusion CRT-P. Device interrogation, exercise testing, transthoracic echocardiography (TE), and customized medication optimization were all part of the six-monthly individual follow-up. Results: Study population: 73 patients (38 males) with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy aged 63.7 ± 9.3 y.o. Baseline characteristic: QRS 159.8 ± 18.2 ms; EF 27.9 ± 5.1%; mitral regurgitation was severe in 38% of patients, moderate in 47% of patients, and mild in 15% of patients; 43% had type III diastolic dysfunction (DD), 49% had type II DD, 8% had type I DD. Average follow-up was 6.4 years ± 27 months: 93% of patients were responders (including 31% super-responders); EF increased to 40.4 ± 8.5%; mitral regurgitation decreased in 69% of patients; diastolic profile improved in 64% of patients. Paroxysmal and persistent AF incidence was 11%, with only 2% of patients developing permanent AF. Regarding LA volume, statistically significant LA reverse remodeling was observed. Conclusions: Exclusive fusion CRT-P was associated with important LA reverse remodeling and a low incidence of AF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Perspectives on Cardiac Electrophysiology and Arrhythmias)
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11 pages, 901 KiB  
Article
Myocardial Work Indices Predict Hospitalization in Patients with Advanced Heart Failure
by Giulia Elena Mandoli, Federico Landra, Benedetta Chiantini, Lorenzo Bonadiman, Maria Concetta Pastore, Marta Focardi, Flavio D’Ascenzi, Matteo Lisi, Enrico Emilio Diviggiano, Luca Martini, Sonia Bernazzali, Serafina Valente, Massimo Maccherini, Matteo Cameli and Michael Y. Henein
Diagnostics 2024, 14(11), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14111196 - 6 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1723
Abstract
Background: An increasing proportion of heart failure (HF) patients progress to the advanced stage (AdHF) with high event rates and limited treatment options. Echocardiography, particularly Speckle Tracking-derived myocardial work (MW), is useful for HF diagnosis and prognosis. We aimed to assess MW’s feasibility [...] Read more.
Background: An increasing proportion of heart failure (HF) patients progress to the advanced stage (AdHF) with high event rates and limited treatment options. Echocardiography, particularly Speckle Tracking-derived myocardial work (MW), is useful for HF diagnosis and prognosis. We aimed to assess MW’s feasibility in the prognostic stratification of AdHF. Methods: We retrospectively screened patients with AdHF who accessed our hospital in 2018–2022. We excluded subjects with inadequate acoustic windows; unavailable brachial artery cuff pressure at the time of the echocardiography; atrial fibrillation; and mitral or aortic regurgitation. We measured standard parameters and left ventricular (LV) strain (LS) and MW. The population was followed up to determine the composite outcomes of all-cause mortality, left ventricular assist device implantation and heart transplantation (primary endpoint), as well as unplanned HF hospitalization (secondary endpoint). Results: We enrolled 138 patients, prevalently males (79.7%), with a median age of 58 years (IQR 50–62). AdHF etiology was predominantly non-ischemic (65.9%). Thirty-five patients developed a composite event during a median follow-up of 636 days (IQR 323–868). Diastolic function, pulmonary pressures, and LV GLS and LV MW indices were not associated with major events. Contrarily, for the secondary endpoint, the hazard ratio for each increase in global work index (GWI) by 50 mmHg% was 0.90 (p = 0.025) and for each increase in global constructive work (GCW) by 50 mmHg% was 0.90 (p = 0.022). Kaplan–Meier demonstrated better endpoint-free survival, with an LV GWI ≥ 369 mmHg%. Conclusions: GWI and GCW, with good feasibility, can help in the better characterization of patients with AdHF at higher risk of HF hospitalization and adverse events, identifying the need for closer follow-up or additional HF therapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Medical Imaging and Theranostics)
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13 pages, 4034 KiB  
Article
Functional Mitral Valve Regurgitation: Mitral Valve Repair or Replacement? Our “Road Map” for the Appropriate Strategy
by Konstantinos Sideris, Melchior Burri, Antonia Mayr, Stephanie Voss, Keti Vitanova, Anatol Prinzing, Bernhard Voss, Andrea Amabile, Arnar Geirsson, Markus Krane and Ralf Guenzinger
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(11), 3264; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13113264 - 31 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1375
Abstract
Objectives: The optimal surgical approach for the treatment of functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) remains controversial. Current guidelines suggest that the surgical approach has to be tailored to the individual patient. The aim of the present study was to clarify further aspects of this [...] Read more.
Objectives: The optimal surgical approach for the treatment of functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) remains controversial. Current guidelines suggest that the surgical approach has to be tailored to the individual patient. The aim of the present study was to clarify further aspects of this tailored treatment. Methods: From 01/2006 to 12/2015, 390 patients underwent mitral valve (MV) surgery for FMR (ischemic n = 241, non-ischemic n = 149) at our institution. A regression analysis was used to determine the effect of MV repair or replacement on survival. The patients were analyzed according to the etiology of the MR (ischemic or non-ischemic), different age groups (<65 years, 65–75 years, and >75 years), LV function, and LV dimensions, as well as the underlying heart rhythm. Results: The overall survival rates for the repair group at 1, 5, and 8 years were 86.1 ± 1.9%, 70.6 ± 2.6%, and 55.1 ± 3.1%, respectively. For the same intervals, the survival rates in patients who underwent MV replacement were 75.9 ± 4.5%, 58.6 ± 5.4%, and 40.9 ± 6.4%, respectively (p = 0.003). Patients younger than 65 years, with an ischemic etiology of FMR, poor ejection fraction (<30%), severe dilatation of left ventricle (LVEDD > 60mm), and presence of atrial fibrillation had significantly higher mortality rates after MV replacement (HR, 3.0; CI, 1.3–6.9; p = 0.007). Patients between 65 and 75 years of age had a higher risk of death when undergoing mitral valve replacement (HR, 1.7; CI, 1.0–2.8; p = 0.04). In patients older than 75 years, the surgical approach (MV repair or replacement) had no effect on postoperative survival (HR, 0.8; CI, 0.4–1.3; p = 0.003). Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that, in patients younger than 65 years, the treatment of choice for FMR should be MV repair. This advantage was even more evident in patients with an ischemic origin of MR, a poor ejection fraction, a severe LV dilatation, and atrial fibrillation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances in Ischemic Heart Disease)
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24 pages, 4367 KiB  
Review
Primary Cardiac Intimal Sarcoma: Multi-Layered Strategy and Core Role of MDM2 Amplification/Co-Amplification and MDM2 Immunostaining
by Claudiu Nistor, Camelia Stanciu Gavan, Adelina Birceanu, Cezar Betianu, Mara Carsote, Anca-Pati Cucu, Mihaela Stanciu, Florina Ligia Popa, Adrian Ciuche and Mihai-Lucian Ciobica
Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090919 - 28 Apr 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3098 | Correction
Abstract
Primary cardiac tumours are relatively uncommon (75% are benign). Across the other 25%, representing malignant neoplasia, sarcomas account for 75–95%, and primary cardiac intimal sarcoma (PCIS) is one of the rarest findings. We aimed to present a comprehensive review and practical considerations from [...] Read more.
Primary cardiac tumours are relatively uncommon (75% are benign). Across the other 25%, representing malignant neoplasia, sarcomas account for 75–95%, and primary cardiac intimal sarcoma (PCIS) is one of the rarest findings. We aimed to present a comprehensive review and practical considerations from a multidisciplinary perspective with regard to the most recent published data in the specific domain of PCIS. We covered the issues of awareness amid daily practice clinical presentation to ultra-qualified management in order to achieve an adequate diagnosis and prompt intervention, also emphasizing the core role of MDM2 immunostaining and MDM2 genetic analysis. An additional base for practical points was provided by a novel on-point clinical vignette with MDM2-positive status. According to our methods (PubMed database search of full-length, English publications from January 2021 to March 2023), we identified three studies and 23 single case reports represented by 22 adults (male-to-female ratio of 1.2; male population with an average age of 53.75 years, range: 35–81; woman mean age of 55.5 years, range: 34–70) and a 4-year-old child. The tumour-related clinical picture was recognized in a matter of one day to ten months on first admission. These non-specific data (with a very low index of suspicion) included heart failure at least NYHA class II, mitral regurgitation and pulmonary hypertension, acute myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, obstructive shock, and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Awareness might come from other complaints such as (most common) dyspnoea, palpitation, chest pressure, cough, asthenia, sudden fatigue, weakness, malaise, anorexia, weight loss, headache, hyperhidrosis, night sweats, and epigastric pain. Two individuals were initially misdiagnosed as having endocarditis. A history of prior treated non-cardiac malignancy was registered in 3/23 subjects. Distant metastasis as the first step of detection (n = 2/23; specifically, brain and intestinal) or during follow-up (n = 6/23; namely, intestinal, brain and bone, in two cases for each, and adrenal) required additional imagery tools (26% of the patients had distant metastasis). Transoesophageal echocardiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imagery, and even 18F-FDG positronic emission tomography-CT (which shows hypermetabolic lesions in PCIS) represent the basis of multimodal tools of investigation. Tumour size varied from 3 cm to ≥9 cm (average largest diameter of 5.5 cm). The most frequent sites were the left atrium followed by the right ventricle and the right atrium. Post-operatory histological confirmation was provided in 20/23 cases and, upon tumour biopsy, in 3/23 of them. The post-surgery maximum free-disease interval was 8 years, the fatal outcome was at the earliest two weeks since initial admission. MDM2 analysis was provided in 7/23 subjects in terms of MDM2-positive status (two out of three subjects) at immunohistochemistry and MDM2 amplification (four out of five subjects) at genetic analysis. Additionally, another three studies addressed PCISs, and two of them offered specific MDM2/MDM2 assays (n = 35 patients with PCISs); among the provided data, we mention that one cohort (n = 20) identified a rate of 55% with regard to MDM2 amplification in intimal sarcomas, and this correlated with a myxoid pattern; another cohort (n = 15) showed that MDM2-positive had a better prognostic than MDM2-negative immunostaining. To summarize, MDM2 amplification and co-amplification, for example, with MDM4, CDK4, HMGA3, CCND3, PDGFRA, TERT, KIT, CCND3, and HDAC9, might improve the diagnosis of PCIS in addition to MDM2 immunostaining since 10–20% of these tumours are MDM2-negative. Further studies are necessary to highlight MDM2 applicability as a prognostic factor and as an element to be taken into account amid multi-layered management in an otherwise very aggressive malignancy. Full article
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12 pages, 2888 KiB  
Review
Anomalous Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery: How to Diagnose and Treat
by Elaina A. Blickenstaff, Sean D. Smith, Frank Cetta, Heidi M. Connolly and David S. Majdalany
J. Pers. Med. 2023, 13(11), 1561; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm13111561 - 31 Oct 2023
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3473
Abstract
Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare coronary anomaly that can present in childhood or adulthood with a multitude of symptoms depending on the age of presentation. It should be suspected in infants presenting with [...] Read more.
Anomalous origin of the left coronary artery from the pulmonary artery (ALCAPA) is a rare coronary anomaly that can present in childhood or adulthood with a multitude of symptoms depending on the age of presentation. It should be suspected in infants presenting with heart failure in the setting of left ventricular systolic dysfunction and associated mitral regurgitation from papillary muscle ischemia. Adults with ALCAPA may present with cardiac ischemic symptoms. Prompt diagnosis with echocardiography and cross-sectional chest imaging is important to guide surgical intervention and improve the patients’ survival and prognosis. The goal of surgery is to establish a dual-coronary system with mid-term results revealing progressive recovery of left ventricular function and improvement in mitral regurgitation. Patients with ALCAPA should maintain life-long follow-up with a cardiologist with congenital heart disease expertise for surveillance of post-operative complications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Personalized Diagnosis and Treatment for Congenital Heart Disease)
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12 pages, 512 KiB  
Article
Potential Prognostic Relevance of Left-Ventricular Global Longitudinal Strain and of the Summation of the Mitral and Tricuspid Regurgitation Volume in Patients with Non-Ischemic Dilated Cardiomyopathy
by Karolina Mėlinytė-Ankudavičė, Eglė Ereminienė, Vaida Mizarienė, Gintarė Šakalytė, Jurgita Plisienė and Renaldas Jurkevičius
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2023, 10(10), 410; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd10100410 - 27 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1685
Abstract
Background: The aim of this pilot study was to determine the potential prognostic relevance of novel multidirectional myocardial and volumetric echocardiographic parameters in patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM). Methods: Multidirectional myocardial parameters (longitudinal, radial, and circumferential left-ventricular (LV) strain using speckle tracking [...] Read more.
Background: The aim of this pilot study was to determine the potential prognostic relevance of novel multidirectional myocardial and volumetric echocardiographic parameters in patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NIDCM). Methods: Multidirectional myocardial parameters (longitudinal, radial, and circumferential left-ventricular (LV) strain using speckle tracking echocardiography) and a new volumetric parameter (the sum of the mitral and tricuspid regurgitation volume (mitral–tricuspid regurgitation volume) were assessed. The cardiovascular (CV) outcome was a composite of cardiac death and hospitalization for heart failure (HF) at 1 year. Results: Approximately 102 patients were included in this pilot study. The mean LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was 28.4 ± 8.9%. During a follow-up of 1 year, the CV outcome occurred in 39 patients (10 HF deaths, and 36 hospitalizations for HF). The LV global longitudinal systolic strain (GLS) and mitral–tricuspid regurgitation volume were the main parameters that were seen to be significantly altered in the comparison of patients with events vs. those without events (GLS (absolute values) 7.4 ± 2.7% vs. 10.3 ± 2.6%; mitral–tricuspid regurgitation volume 61.1 ± 20.4 mL vs. 40.9 ± 22.9 mL, respectively; p-value < 0.01). In line with these findings, in a multivariate continuous logistic regression analysis, the GLS and mitral–tricuspid regurgitation volume were the main parameters associated with worse CV outcomes (GLS: OR 0.77 (95%CI 0.65–0.92); mitral–tricuspid regurgitation volume OR 1.09 (95%CI 1.01–1.25)), whereas the radial and circumferential LV global strain and mitral regurgitation volume and tricuspid regurgitation volume were not linked to the CV outcome. Furthermore, in a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, a GLS cutoff of <7.5% and mitral–tricuspid regurgitation volume > 60 mL were the identified values for the parameters associated with worse CV outcomes. Conclusions: The findings of this pilot study suggest that the GLS and a novel volumetric parameter (the sum of the mitral and tricuspid regurgitation volume) are linked to worse CV outcomes in patients with non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. Hence, these promising results warrant further validation in larger studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Cardiovascular Imaging in Heart Failure)
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