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Atrial arrhythmias are well-known complications of atrial septal defect (ASD), and associated with substantial morbidity. After ASD closure, right atrial and ventricular enlargement regresses, however, the risk of atrial arrhythmia development continues. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between the Crochetage sign, which is a possible reflection of heterogeneous ventricular depolarization due to long-term hemodynamic overload, and the development of late atrial arrhythmia after ASD closure.This retrospective study included a total of 314 patients (mean age: 39.5 (30-50) years; male: 115) who underwent percutaneous device closure for secundum ASD. The study population was divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of the Crochetage sign. The Crochetage sign was defined as an M-shaped or bifid pattern notch on the R wave in one or more inferior limb leads. Cox-regression analysis was performed to determine independent predictors of late atrial arrhythmia development.Fifty-seven patients (18.1%) presented with late atrial arrhythmia. Of these 57 patients, 30 developed new-onset atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter (AF/AFL), and 27 patients with pre-procedure paroxysmal AF/AFL had a recurrence of AF/AFL during follow-up. History of paroxysmal AF/AFL before the procedure (HR: 4.78; 95% CI 2,52-9.05; p0.001), the presence of Crochetage sign (HR: 3.90; 95% CI 2.05-7.76; p0.001), and older age at the time of ASD closure (HR: 1.03; 95% CI 1.01-1.06; p = 0.002) were found as independent predictors for late atrial arrhythmia.The presence of Crochetage sign may be used to predict the risk of late atrial arrhythmia development after transcatheter ASD closure.

In this study, we investigated whether left atrial functions evaluated by speckle tracking echocardiography , classic echocardiographic and clinic parameters predict appropriate Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) shock in patients who underwent ICD implantation for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.Totally 87 patients who received ICD implantation for primary or secondary prevention were included in the study. Patients' clinical, electrocardiographic, 2 dimen- sion classic, and speckle tracking echocardiographic data were collected. Left atrial functions were assessed by speckle tracking echocardiography. Left atrial strain just before mitral valve opening was taken as peak atrial longitudinal strain. Appropriate ICD therapy was defined as cardioversion or defibrillation due to ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Patients were divided into 2 groups as occurrence or absence of appropri- ate ICD therapy during follow-up (mean, 50.2 ± 9.3 months). Patients with an European Society of Cardiology (ESC) risk score6% were considered high-risk patients.A total of 24 (27.5 %) patients were observed to have an appropriate ICD therapy. In patients on whom appropriate ICD therapy was performed, a higher Sudden Cardiac Death risk Score and decreased peak atrial longitudinal strain and global longitudinal peak strain were observed. In patients with high ESC risk score (6%), in Cox regres- sion analysis, peak atrial longitudinal strain (odds ratio: 0.806, P = .008), Sudden Cardiac Death risk score (odds ratio: 1.114, P = .03) and global longitudinal peak strain (odds ratio: 1.263, P = .02) were found to be independent predictors of occurrence of appropriate ICD therapy.Easily measurable peak atrial longitudinal strain may provide additional information in predicting ventricular arrhythmias or deciding on prophylactic medical treatment to prevent ventricular arrhythmias or reduce the frequency of appropriate shock in high-risk patients with ICD implanted.

The growing problem of endocardial lead infections and lead malfunctions has increased interest in percutaneous lead-removal technology. Transvenous lead extraction (TLE) via simple manual traction (SMT) is the first-line therapy. When SMT is not successful, TLE from the femoral vein using a gooseneck snare (GS) with a radiofrequency ablation catheter (RFAC) may be an alternative option. The aim of our study was to evaluate the success rate of transvenous extraction of chronically implanted leads via the femoral approach using a GS with RFCA in cases of failure with SMT.The study included 94 consecutive patients who were referred for lead extraction due to pocket erosion and infection (71 patients) and to lead malfunction (23 patients). Initially, SMT was attempted for all patients. If SMT was not successful, patients underwent TLE using a GS with RFAC.Leads were extracted successfully with SMT in 34 patients (54 leads), while 60 patients (83 leads) underwent TLE using a GS with RFAC. The mean indwelling time of the leads was longer in the femoral approach with GS (87.5 ± 37.9 vs. 31.3 ± 25.8 months; p 0.001). The procedural success rate was 96.7% in the femoral approach with GS. A preceding implantation lead duration of51 months predicted an unsuccessful SMT necessitating alternative TLE using a GS with RFAC with 86% sensitivity and 78% specificity (p 0.001).Transvenous lead extraction via the femoral approach using GS with RFAC may be an alternative approach to SMT with a high success rate, especially when the indwelling time of the leads is long.HINTERGRUND: Das zunehmende Problem der Infektion endokardialer Elektroden und von Elektrodenfehlfunktionen hat zu einem vermehrten Interesse an Verfahren zur perkutanen Elektrodenentfernung geführt. Die transvenöse Elektrodenextraktion (TLE) mittel simpler manueller Traktion (SMT) ist die Therapie der ersten Wahl. Wenn dieser Ansatz nicht gelingt, kann die TLE über die V. femoralis mit einer Gänsehalsschlinge (GS) und einem Radiofrequenzablationskatheter (RFAC) eine Alternativoption sein. Ziel dieser Studie war es, die Erfolgsrate der TLE von vor längerer Zeit implantierten Elektroden über einen femoralen Zugang mithilfe einer GS und eines RFAC in Fällen zu ermitteln, in denen die SMT nicht erfolgreich war.In die Studie wurden 94 konsekutive Patienten einbezogen, die aufgrund einer Taschenerosion oder -infektion (71 Patienten) oder wegen Elektrodenfehlfunktion (23 Patienten) zur Elektrodenextraktion überwiesen worden waren. Zuerst wurde bei allen Patienten die SMT versucht. Bei erfolgloser SMT wurde bei den Patienten die TLE mithilfe einer GS und eines RFAC angewendet.Mit SMT wurden die Elektroden bei 34 Patienten (54 Elektroden) erfolgreich entfernt, während bei 60 Patienten (83 Elektroden) eine TLE unter Einsatz einer GS und eines RFAC erfolgte. Beim femoralen Zugang mit GS bestand eine längere mittlere Liegezeit der Elektroden (87,5 ± 37,9 vs. 31,3 ± 25,8 Monate; p 0,001). Dabei betrug die prozedurale Erfolgsrate 96,7% beim femoralen Zugang mit GS. Lag die vorangegangene Elektrodenimplantation51 Monate zurück, war dies ein Prädiktor für den Misserfolg der SMT, somit wurde als Alternative eine TLE unter Verwendung einer GS und eines RFAC mit 86% Sensitivität und 78% Spezifität (p 0,001) erforderlich.Die TLE über einen femoralen Zugang mithilfe einer GS und eines RFAC kann ein alternativer Ansatz zur SMT mit einer hohen Erfolgsrate sein, insbesondere bei langer Elektrodenliegedauer.

Objective: Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is a life-threatening medical condition and more than 30% of patients hospitalized for ADHF develop acute kidney injury (AKI), which increases the rate of both mortality and morbidity. Previous research has indicated that several biomar- kers may help to predict the development of AKI. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between lactate level at the time of admission and AKI in ADHF patients. Methods: A total of 154 consecutive ADHF patients were prospectively enrolled from June 2018 to December 2018, and after applying the exclusion criteria, a total of 91 patients were included in the study. The patients were divided into 2 groups: those with and without AKI. Results: There were 63 patients in the group without AKI and 28 patients in the group with AKI. The AKI group had a higher percentage of a history of chronic kidney disease (CKD), a higher creatinine level, lower glomerular filtration rate level, lower bicarbonate level, higher lactate level, and a lower left ventricular ejection fraction compared with the non-AKI group (p

Introduction: Ear lobe crease (ELC) was first described in 1973 as a physical examination finding indicating significant coronary artery disease (CAD). Several studies have been carried out in relation to this finding, and it has been shown that it is a marker of intima-media thickness, carotid artery disease, and CAD. We aimed to investigate the relationship between earlobe crease, which is a simple physical examination finding, and GRACE score as a risk estimation index in acute coronary syndromes without ST-segment elevation (NSTE-ACS) patients. Methods: 360 patients (mean age 62.2 years, 70% male) were included in our study. Patients were divided into two groups of GRACE scores ≤ 109 and >109, 167 patients were enrolled in group 1, and193 cases in group 2. Results: The group 2 patients were older, had higher systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels, a higher rate of hypertension, higher glucose levels, lower creatinine clearance levels, higher initial and peak troponin levels, lower hemoglobin levels, lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and higher Gensini scores than the patients in group 1. The higher GRACE score group had markedly increased frequencies of ELC compared to the lower GRACE score group (80.8% vs. 24.5%, respectively, P < 0.001). Conclusion: The presence of ELC may predict moderate to high risk group of patients with NSTEACS.

BACKGROUND A presystolic wave (PSW) is commonly seen on Doppler examination of the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), and the possible mechanism for PSW is considered to be left ventricular stiffness and impaired LV compliance. We aimed to compare the relationship between PSW and dipper, nondipper hypertension. PATIENTS AND METHODS A total of 83 patients were included in the study. The participating patients were divided into two groups as 42 patients with dipper hypertension and 41 patients with nondipper hypertension based on the results of ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. RESULTS Left ventricular mass index (91.6 ± 12.9 vs. 106.1 ± 7.9, P

The effect of physiological circulatory changes during pregnancy on hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) has been reported with limited data. This study aimed to provide information regarding outcomes of pregnant women with HCM and to identify predictors of major adverse cardiac event (MACE).A total of 45 pregnancies with HCM were retrospectively reviewed. The primary endpoint was a MACE that occurred within an 8‑week period after delivery, including maternal death, heart failure (HF), syncope, and malignant ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). Baseline and outcome data were analyzed for all patients. Patients with and without MACE were compared, and patients with obstructive HCM were compared with those who had non-obstructive HCM. The study population was divided into two subgroups of patients having or not having an implantable cardioverter defibrillator implantation (ICD).At least one MACE occurred in 11 patients (24.4%); six patients developed HF (13.3%), six had a ventricular tachyarrhythmia (13.3%), and two had syncope (4.4%). New York Heart Association functional class of ≥ II, presence of HF signs before pregnancy, increased left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient were significantly associated with MACE. Fatal VAs were seen during pregnancy in one of five HCM patients with ICD. In the ROC curve analysis, an LVOT gradient higher than 53.5 mm Hg predicted the presence of MACE with a sensitivity of 90.9% and a specificity of 73.5%. This study is the largest series in the literature representing pregnant women who had HCM and ICD.The current data suggest that HF and high LVOT gradients are important risk factors for the development of cardiac complications.HINTERGRUND: Über die Auswirkungen physiologischer Kreislaufveränderungen während der Schwangerschaft auf eine hypertrophe Kardiomyopathie (HCM) wurde bisher anhand begrenzt vorhandener Daten berichtet. Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war, Informationen über die Ergebnisse schwangerer Frauen mit HCM zu erhalten und Prädiktoren schwerer unerwünschter kardialer Ereignisse (MACE) zu identifizieren.Retrospektiv wurden dazu die Daten von 45 Schwangerschaften mit HCM ausgewertet. Primäerer Endpunkt war ein MACE, das innerhalb einer 8‑Wochen-Phase nach Entbindung auftrat, einschließlich Tod der Mutter, Herzinsuffizienz, Synkope und maligner ventrikulärer Arrhythmien (VA). Die Ausgangsdaten und die Daten des Ergebnisses im Verlauf wurden für sämtliche Patientinnen ausgewertet. Verglichen wurden einerseits Patientinnen mit und ohne MACE, andererseits Patientinnen mit obstruktiver HCM und mit nichtobstruktiver HCM. Die Studienpopulation wurde in 2 Subgruppen unterteilt: Bei den einen wurde ein implantierbarer Kardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) implantiert, bei den anderen nicht.Bei 11 Patientinnen trat mindestens ein MACE auf (24,4 %); eine Herzinsuffizienz entwickelte sich bei 6 Patientinnen (13,3 %), ebenfalls bei 6 eine ventrikuläre Tachyarrhythmie (13,3 %), und bei 2 trat eine Synkope auf (4,4 %). Eine Funktionsklasse ≥ II gemäß New York Heart Association, das Vorliegen von Herzinsuffizienzsymptomen vor der Schwangerschaft und eine erhöhter linksventrikulärer Ausflusstrakt(LVOT)-Gradient waren signifikant mit MACE vergesellschaftet. Eine tödliche VA wurde während der Schwangerschaft bei einer von 5 HCM-Patientinnen mit ICD beobachtet. In der Receiver-Operator-Characteristic(ROC)-Kurven-Analyse war ein LVOT-Gradient über 53,5 mm Hg ein Prädiktor für das Vorliegen eines MACE mit einer Sensitivität von 90,9 % und einer Spezifität von 73,5 %. Die vorliegende Studie enthält die größte Serie schwangerer Frauen mit HCM und ICD in der Literatur.Den aktuellen Daten zufolge stellen Herzinsuffizienz und hohe LVOT-Gradienten entscheidende Risikofaktoren für das Auftreten kardialer Komplikationen dar.

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the validity of automated quantitative and semiquantitative visual analysis of total perfusion deficit (TPD) using the IQ SPECT gamma camera system compared to conventional coronary angiographically detected significant coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: The study included patients with suspected CAD who underwent myocardial perfusion single photon emission computed tomography and conventional coronary angiography. The summed stress score (SSS), summed rest score (SRS), and summed difference score (SDS) (semiquantitative visual analysis results) were assessed using a 5-point scale in a standard 17-segment model, and TPD (stress, rest, and ischemic TPD) was quantified using automated software. Results: In all, 84 patients (Group 1, those who underwent revascularization) had significant coronary artery lesions, and 81 (Group 2) had non-significant lesions. The median interquartile range values were: stress-TPD (sTPD): 16 (3.5– 33.5) vs 9.2 (2–17.9), rest-TPD: 9.4 (2.2–18.8) vs 4 (1–11), and 6.9 (1.9–14.1) vs 3.4 (1–6.1) for ischemic-TPD (iTPD) in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively. To detect ischemia, the optimal cut-off points were 9.5 (sensitivity: 75%, specificity; 60%) for sTPD, and 4.5 (sensitivity: 56%, specificity: 73%) for iTPD. There were significant correlations between quantitative and semi-quantitative methods in detection of significant coronary artery disease (sTPD-SSS: r=0.954, sTPD-SDS: r=0.746, iTPD-SSS: r=0.654, iTPD-SDS: r=0.759; p

In this study, we aimed to investigate the predictive value of early systolic lengthening duration in differentiating myocardial ischemia from scar tissue in patients with chronic coronary total occlusion. A total of 69 patients were included in the study. The participating patients were divided into two groups as 35 patients with ischemia and 34 patients with scar tissue based on the results of the myocardial perfusion scintigraphy. In the scar group compared to the ischemia group; LVEF, GLS, SRS', and the duration of early systolic lengthening were significantly lower; whereas, EDV, ESV, and WMSI were significantly higher in the scar group compared to the ischemia group. In the multivariate logistic regression test, LVEF (OR 1.150, 95% CI 1.044-1.268, p = 0.005) and duration of early systolic lengthening (OR 1.021, 95% CI 1.004-1.039, p = 0.016) were determined as independent predictive parameters for ischemia detected by myocardial perfusion scintigraphy. Duration of early systolic lengthening obtained by speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with chronic total occlusion lesions may be useful in differentiating ischemia from scar tissue detected in myocardial perfusion scintigraphy. Prolonged duration of early systolic lengthening in patients with chronic total occlusion lesions was related to the presence of ischemia detected by myocardial perfusion scintigraphy.

BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE STUDY Chronic severe aortic regurgitation (AR) is associated with progressive accumulation of interstitial fibrosis and disruption of myocardial structure. After aortic valve replacement (AVR), the negative remodeling process reverses, and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) improves but not in all patients. In this study, we aimed to investigate the association of fragmented QRS (F-QRS), which is a possible marker of myocardial fibrosis, with postoperative left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction. METHODS A total of 147 consecutive patients with AVR were included in this study. F-QRS was identified by the presence of various RSR' patterns (QRS duration

Plasma D-dimer level is an indicator of thrombosis and endogenous fibrinolytic activity. We investigated the association between the D-dimer levels and thrombus burden and cerebrovascular events in patients with obstructive prosthetic valve thrombosis (PVT). This retrospective study included 47 patients with obstructive left-sided PVT and 32 controls in whom PVT was excluded with comprehensive transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). The patient group included 11 aortic, 27 mitral, and 9 aortic and mitral valve PVT patients and the control group included 2 aortic, 25 mitral, and 5 aortic and mitral valve patients. Laboratory analysis including plasma D-dimer levels was performed at the time of admission in all patients. The baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. The plasma D-dimer levels were significantly higher in patients with obstructive PVT compared with controls [680 (110-3590) vs. 310 (80-380) μg/l; P < 0.001]. By multivariate logistic regression analysis high D-dimer level, low-INR value on admission, high NYHA functional class and recent history of cerebrovascular accident (CVA), and transient ischemic attack (TIA) were the independent predictors of obstructive PVT. A plasma D-dimer level of greater than 365 μg/l predicted the presence of PVT with a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 69% (AUC= 0.781, P < 0.001). Plasma D-dimer levels were significantly higher in patients with a recent history of CVA/TIA [2140 (470-2980) vs. 590 (380-830) μg/l; P = 0.021]. In addition to the so-called indicators of PVT including subtherapeutic anticoagulation, increased D-Dimer levels may strengthen the suspicion of PVT. Moreover, higher plasma D-dimer levels were associated with higher thrombus burden and higher prevalence of recent CVA/TIA.

Introduction: Cardiac arrest, which may result in death without an effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), is the unexpected loss of cardiac functions. Sudden cardiac arrest is classified as in-hospital and out-of-hospital depending on the place where the event occurs. Patients and Methods: In this study, 134 patients (age, >18 years) who were admitted or were brought with the help of their relatives or in an ambulance and medical equipment to the Emergency Department of Kosuyolu Cardiac Hospital with the diagnosis of in-hospital or out-of-hospital cardiac arrest between 2013 and 2016 were enrolled. Demographic characteristics of the patients were obtained from the hospital database. Results: In total, 134 patients were included in this study. Of these, 95 (71%) were males and 39 (29%) were females. The mean patient age was 61.7 ± 14.6 years. In a total of 134 cardiac arrests, 58 were in-hospital and 76 were out-of-hospital. Among the patients who exhibited electrical activity with pulse after CPR, 35 (64.8%) experienced in-hospital cardiac arrest and 19 (35.2%) experienced out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, whereas among the patients who exhibited pulseless electrical activity after CPR, 23 (28.7%) experienced in-hospital cardiac arrest and 57 (71.2%) experienced out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (p< 0.001). Conclusion: The most common cause of cardiac arrest in our study cohort was myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation, followed by congestive heart failure and indefinite causes. Asystole was the most common rhythm at admission. The rate of ventricular fibrillation detected in the returning group was found to be higher than the non-returning group and the difference was statistically significant (p< 0.001). Similary to literature in our study, pulsatile electrical rhythm was found to be more prominent in pulsatile rhythms.

Introduction: InappropriateICD shocks may negatively affect the quality of life and lead to arrhythmiasand psychiatric problems. In this study, we investigated demographic andclinical characteristics of patients with ICD shocks and the predictors leadingto inappropriate ICD shocks presented to our emergency department.Patients and Methods:Atotal of 64 patients with ICD shocks presented to the emergency department wereincluded in the study. Clinical data of the patients were retrospectivelyobtained. The clinical features, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF),drugs used, and electrocardiographic (ECG) data at the time of implantation ofthe patients were obtained.Results: Of thepatients presented, 82% were male and the mean age was found as 56.6 ± 15.8years. Fourty-nine (76%) and 15 (34%) patients experienced appropriate andinappropriate ICD shocks, respectively. The most common findings in thepatients presented with inappropriate ICD shocks included atrial fibrillationin 8 (53%), supraventricular tachycardia in 6 (40%), and lead sensing problemin 1 (7%) patients. Compared with the patients presented with appropriateshocks, patients with inappropriate ICD shocks were younger, had less coronaryartery disease, had more history of atrial fibrillation before implantation,and shorter time from implantation to first inappropriate shock. Inmultivariate logistic regression analysis, age and a history of atrialfibrillation were found as independent predictors for inappropriate ICD shocks.Conclusion: Presence of atrialfibrillation is the most common rhythm problem that causes inappropriate ICDshocks. History of previous atrial fibrillation and a younger age arepredicting clinical parameters for inappropriate ICD shocks., Giriş: Uygunsuz implante edilen kardiyoverter defibrilatör (ICD) şokları yaşamkalitesini olumsuz etkileyebilir, aritmiye ve psikiyatrik sorunlara yolaçabilir. Biz çalışmamızda acil servisimize ICD şoklamasıyla başvuranhastaların demografik, klinik özeliklerini ve uygunsuz ICD şoklamasına yol açanöngördürücüleri araştırdık.Hastalar veYöntem: Acil servise ICD şoklamasıyla başvuran 64 hastaçalışmaya alındı. Hastalara ait klinik veriler retrospektif olarak elde edildi.Çalışmaya dahil edilen hastaların klinik özelikleri, sol ventrikül ejeksiyonfraksiyonu (LVEF), kullandıkları ilaçlar, implantasyon anındakielektrokardiyogramlarına (EKG) ait veriler elde edildi.Bulgular: Başvuran hastaların %82’si erkek ve ortalama yaş (56.6 ± 15.8) tespitedildi. Kırk dokuz (%76) hastada uygunşoklama tespit edilirken 15 (%34) hastada uygunsuz ICD şoklaması tespit edildi.Uygunsuz ICD şoklama ile başvuranhastalarda sırasıyla en sık atriyal fibrilasyon (AF) 8 (%53), supraventrikülertaşikardi 6 (%40) ve lead algılama sorunu 1 (%7) hastada saptandı. Uygunsuz ICD şoklaması olanhastalar uygun şoklamayla başvuran hastalarla kıyaslandığında daha genç yaşa,daha az koroner arter hastalığına, implantasyon öncesi daha fazla AF öyküsüne ve implantasyondansonra ilk şoklamaya kadar daha kısasüreye sahip olan hastalardı. Multivariate logistik regresyon analizi sonrasıyaş, AF öyküsü varlığı uygunsuz ICD şoklaması için bağımsız öngördürücü olduğubulundu.Sonuç: AF varlığı uygunsuz ICDşoklamasına neden olan en sık ritmsorunudur. Daha önce AF öyküsünün olması ve genç yaşta olmak, uygunsuz ICDşoklaması için öngördürücü klinik parametrelerdir.

Pericardial effusion (PE) is a common clinical condition that can develop as a result of systemic or cardiac diseases. Here, we report the results of cytology for patients who underwent pericardiocentesis for PE. The study comprised 283 patients who underwent primary percutaneous pericardiocentesis between 2007 and 2016. The mean age of the patients was 60.0 ± 16.6 years; 162 (57.2%) were male and 121 (42.8%) were female. The presence of reactive mesothelial cells, acute and chronic inflammatory cells, and/or blood without evidence of malignant cells was considered as benign. The presence of malignant cells with/without reactive mesothelial cells, inflammatory cells, and/or blood was considered as malignant. The vast majority of PE specimens (219 cases; 77.4%) were classified as benign. Only 20 cases (7.1%) were classified as atypical, and malignant cells were present in the PE specimens of 44 cases (15.5%). The most common diagnosis was benign PE. The most commonly encountered malignancy was lung cancer. The rate of malignancy was 1.9% in the serous group and 24% in the hemorrhagic group, which was statistically significant. Benign PE was the most frequent cytological diagnosis in our study. Chronic nonspecific pericarditis was the most frequent type of pericarditis in the benign PE group, while lung adenocarcinoma was the most frequent malignancy in the malignant PE group. The rate of malignancy was significantly higher in the hemorrhagic group than in the serous group.

We compared direct stenting (DS) with conventional stenting (CS) – i.e., stenting after predilation – during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (P-PCI) in terms of procedural results and long-term mortality in patients with ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI). We retrospectively analyzed 2306 patients (mean age 59 years, 22% female) who underwent P‑PCI within 12 h of symptom onset. Patients were then followed up prospectively for clinical events. Patients were divided into a DS group (n = 597) and a CS group (n = 1709). The CS group was further divided into a CS-1 group (baseline thrombolysis in myocardial infarction [TIMI] flow grade ≥ 1) and a CS-2 group (baseline TIMI flow grade 0). Main outcome measures were postprocedural myocardial reperfusion and all-cause mortality in long-term follow-up. Patients in the DS group had a higher percentage of final TIMI-3 flow, myocardial blush grade 3 and complete ST-segment resolution, better left ventricular ejection fraction, and a lower incidence of distal embolization compared with CS patients. In-hospital (1.5 vs. 4.6%, respectively, p = 0.001) and long-term all-cause mortality (8.8 vs. 17.0%, respectively, p < 0.001) were significantly lower in the DS group than in the CS group. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed similar survival rates in the DS and CS-1 groups (log-rank p = 0.40), but significantly worse survival in the CS-2 group than in the other groups (log-rank p < 0.001). After adjusting for risk factors, DS was not found to be a predictor of long-term mortality. DS in P‑PCI was associated with better postprocedural angiographic results and long-term survival. However, the DS group had similar in-hospital and long-term mortality to matched patients in the CS group.

Prolonged left atrial electromechanical conduction time is related with atrial electrical remodeling, and is predictive of the development of atrial fibrillation. The aim of our study was to examine whether left atrial electromechanical conduction time (EMT) and left atrial strain as measured by speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) are predictors for the development of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with mitral stenosis (MS) at 5-year follow-up. A total of 81 patients (61% females; mean age 38.1 ± 12.1 years) with mild or moderate MS of rheumatic origin according to ACC/AHA guidelines who were in sinus rhythm, and were asymptomatic or have NYHA class 1 symptom were included in the study. AF was searched by 12-lead electrocardiograms or 24-h Holter recordings during follow-up period. Atrial electromechanical conduction time (EMT), peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) and peak atrial contraction strain (PACS) were measured by STE. EMTs was defined as the interval between the onset of P-wave to the peak late diastolic longitudinal strain in the basal lateral and septal wall. During the follow-up period of 5 years (mean follow-up duration, 48.2 ± 13.3 months), 30 patients (37%) developed AF on standard 12-lead ECG or at their 24-h Holter recording. At follow-up, patients who developed AF were older than patients without AF (42.4 ± 11.3 vs. 35.6 ± 11.9, p = 0.014). Mitral valve area (MVA) (1.39 ± 0.14 vs. 1.48 ± 0.18, p = 0.03), PALS (13.4 ± 4.6 vs. 19 ± 5.2, p

Objective Cardiac masses comprise a category that includes benign, malignant, and nontumoral mass lesions. The present study aims to share the findings relating to cardiac masses observed at our tertiary cardiology hospital in Turkey. Methods The records of patients who presented with cardiac masses and underwent surgery at our institute between 2006 and 2015, and whose tissue samples were sent to a pathology laboratory, were retrospectively reviewed in a consecutive manner. Results The study included 228 patients with an average age of 52.5 ± 17.3 years. Of the study's subjects, 95 (41.7%) were male and 133 (58.3%) female. The most commonly observed mass was myxoma in 68 patients (29.8%), of whom 20 (29.4%) were male and 48 (70.6%) female. The second most frequently detected mass was pannus, with 38 cases (16.7%) - 10 (26.3%) in males and 28 (73.7%) in females. The third most common cardiac mass was thrombus (16.2%), with 18 cases of thrombi in men (48.6%) and 19 (51.4%) in women. Conclusion The most commonly observed cardiac mass was myxoma and most were localized in the left atrium. The second most frequently detected mass was pannus, which was mostly found on mitral mechanical prosthetic valves. Thrombi were the third most prevalent mass and were commonly localized in the right atrium.

Coronary fistulas are defined as the presence of an abnormal connection between the coronary arteries and the low-pressure vascular area or the cardiac cavity. The clinical significance depends on the amount of blood flow through the fistula segment, the volumetric load on the right and left heart chambers, and whether it leads to a coronary steal phenomenon. Although fistula flow can be better visualized by angiographic methods, it can also be seen by echocardiography. In this case, the fistula flow draining to the left ventricle was demonstratively visualized.

Coronary fistulae may lead to coronary steal phenomenon or considerable volume overload on the cardiac chambers, causing significant hemodynamic problems. Coronary fistulae can be closed either surgically or percutaneously. Percutaneous closure is frequently performed with coil embolization or a vascular plug. Although percutaneous closure has significant advantages, such as a shorter duration of hospitalization and no sternal scarring, several complications, including coil embolization or failure to retrieve the device, may occasionally occur. In the current report, a patient with a left coronary to right atrium fistula who declined to have surgery underwent percutaneous coil embolization. However, after release of the coil, the catheter could not be retrieved using the standard anti-torque mechanism.

Introduction: Procoagulant activity of heparanase has been recently described in several arterial and venous thrombotic disorders. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of heparanase with regard to thrombus burden, thromboembolism, and treatment success with unfractionated heparin (UFH) in patients with prosthetic valve thrombosis (PVT). Methods: This study enrolled 79 PVT patients who received UFH for PVT and 82 controls. Plasma samples which were collected from patients both at baseline and after the UFH treatment and from controls at baseline only, were tested for heparanase levels by heparanase enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The PVT group included 18 obstructive and 61 non-obstructive PVT patients who received UFH infusions for a median duration of 15 (7–20) days. The UFH treatment was successful in 37 (46.8%) patients. Baseline heparanase levels were significantly higher in the patient group than in the controls [0.29 (0.21–0.71) vs. 0.25 (0.17–0.33) ng/mL; p = 0.002]. Baseline heparanase levels were significantly higher in obstructive PVT patients. There was a significant increase in heparanase levels after UFH treatment. Post-UFH heparanase levels were higher in patients who experienced treatment failure compared to successfully treated group. Baseline and post-UFH heparanase levels were significantly higher in patients with a thrombus area >=1 cm2 and with a recent history of thromboembolism. Conclusions: Increased heparanase levels may be one of the esoteric causes for PVT. UFH treatment may trigger an increase in heparanase levels which may affect the treatment success. Increased heparanase levels may be associated with high risk of thromboembolism and increased thrombus burden in PVT patients. © 2018 Elsevier Ltd

Objective: Impedance Cardiography (ICG) method, facilitates measuring hemodynamic parameters indirectly by recording thoracic impedance variations induced by cyclic changes in blood flow. The aim of this study is to evaluate alterations in hemodynamic parameters obtained by impedance cardiography (ICG) in addition to conventional echocardiographic and catheterization data after percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMBV). Material and Methods: 18 patients with severe rheumatic mitral stenosis to whom PMBV had been performed were included in this study. Impedance cardiographic measurements were performed in addition to routine echocardiographic examination and invasive left atrial and pulmonary arterial pressure recordings before and after the procedure. Cardiac output was calculated with direct Fick method before PMBV. Average values of several measurements were used to obtain the most accurate results for atrial fibrillation patients in the study group. Results: Following successful PMBV, in impedance cardiographic evaluation an increase in cardiac output (4.69±1.46 and 5.68±1.3 l/min, before and after PMBV, respectively, p

In this study, our objective was to evaluate right ventricular functions with speckle-tracking and conventional echocardiographic methods in patients with acute inferior myocardial infarction and to investigate the correlation between the echocardiographic parameters and the prediction of the proximal RCA lesions. 77 patients were included in this study. Patients with a RCA occluded proximal to the right ventricular branch were assigned to Group 1 and patients with an RCA occlusion distal to the right ventricle branch were assigned to Group 2. All echocardiographic examinations were carried out within 24 h after PTCA, which was performed for the treatment of inferior myocardial infarction. RV TAPSE, RV TDI Sm, FAC, RV-FW strain, RV-FW SRE', RV-FW SRA' and RV E/Em which were statistically significant in univariate analysis were evaluated with the help of the multivariate logistic regression analysis. In the multivariate logistic regression test; RV-FW strain (OR 0.751, 95% CI 0.592-0.954, p = 0.019) and RV E/Em (OR 0.442, 95% CI 0.252-0.776, p = 0.004) were determined as the independent predictive parameters for proximal RCA occlusion. In the ROC analysis, RV-FW strain - 14.75% predicted the proximal RCA occlusion with 83% sensitivity and 61% specificity (AUC = 0.81, p 0.001) and RV E/Em 6.25 with 68% sensitivity and 80% specificity (AUC = 0.79, p 0.001). In this study, we demonstrated that decreased RV FW strain and increased RV E/Em were predictive parameters for the presence of the proximal RCA in patients with acute inferior MI.

We investigated the efficacy of clinical and classic echocardiographic parameters in predicting the occurrence of nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NsVT) in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).The study comprised 59 patients with HCM (47 male, [80%]; mean age, 48.48 ± 14.16 years). Clinical, electrocardiographic, as well as classic two-dimensional and speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) data were collected. All patients had Holter monitoring within 24-72 h of the echocardiographic examination. NsVT was defined as three or more consecutive premature wide QRS complexes with a heart rate of 100 bpm. The patient population was categorized into groups based on the occurrence or absence of NsVT on the 24-h Holter recordings.NsVT was observed in 17 patients (29%). In these patients, higher twist (14.4 ± 3.8 vs.18 ± 7.9; p = 0.02), higher apical rotation (8.7 ± 4.2 vs. 12.2 ± 7; p = 0.02), higher sudden cardiac death risk score (4.4 ± 2.2 vs. 7 ± 3.3; p = 0.007), and decreased global longitudinal peak strain (GLPS; -12.8 ± 3.1 vs. -10.6 ± 2.8; p = 0.014) were observed. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, including GLPS and twist, GLPS (Odds Ratio [OR]: 1.406; 95% CI: 1.087-1.818; p = 0.009) and twist (OR: 1.236; 95% CI: 1.056-1.446; p = 0.008) were found to be independent predictors of NsVT. In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, GLPS -11.9% predicted NsVT with 82% sensitivity and 60% specificity (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.70; p = 0.014) and twist 15.2° predicted NsVT with 70% sensitivity and 58% specificity (AUC: 0.69; p = 0.027).Decreased GLPS and increased twist were predictive of NsVT in HCM patients. Parameters that can easily be measured with STE can help detect patients who may develop arrhythmia.

Purpose In this study, we investigated whether mechanical dispersion which reflects electrical abnormality and other echocardiographic and clinic parameters predict appropriate ICD shock in patients undergone ICD implantation for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Methods Sixty-three patients who received ICD implantation for primary or secondary prevention were included in the study. Patients’ clinical, electrocardiographic, 2D classic, and speckle tracking echocardiographic data were collected. Mechanical dispersion was defined as the standard deviation of time to peak negative strain in 18 left ventricular segments. Appropriate ICD therapy was defined as cardioversion or defibrillation due to ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation. Patients were divided into two groups as occurrence or the absence of appropriate ICD therapy. Results A total of 17 (26.9%) patients were observed to have an appropriate ICD therapy during follow-up periods. In patients who performed appropriate ICD therapy, a larger left atrial volume index, higher sudden cardiac death (SCD)-Risk Score, longer mechanical dispersion, and decreased global longitudinal peak strain (GLPS) were observed. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, including (GLPS, mechanical dispersion, LAVi, and SCD-Risk Score) was used to determine independent predictors of occurrence of appropriate ICD therapy during the follow-up. Mechanical dispersion, GLPS, and SCD-Risk Score were found to be independent predictors of occurrence of appropriate ICD therapy. Conclusions Mechanical dispersion, GLPS, and SCD-Risk Score were found to be predictive for appropriate ICD therapy in patients receiving ICD implantation. Readily measurable mechanical dispersion and GLPS could be helpful to distinguish patients at high risk who could optimally benefit from ICD therapy.

Objective: Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is a complex developmental anomaly caused by abnormal aortic leaflet formation during valvulogenesis. The present study is an assessment of the effects of BAV disease on the ascending aorta and pulmonary artery (PA), and an evaluation of the consequences for systolic and diastolic functioning of the left and right ventricles. Methods: Total of 66 patients were eligible for inclusion. Pulmonary artery maximum diameter (PAD) was obtained 1 cm distal to the pulmonary annulus. Using pulsed-wave tissue Doppler imaging, left ventricular (LV) early diastolic velocity (E′) measurement was obtained at the annulus with placement of sample volume. Right ventricle (RV) peak global strain rate during systole (RV-SRS), early diastole (RV-SRE), and late diastole (RV-SRA) were calculated. Results: In this study, 40.9% (n=27) of patients were female and average age was 35±11years. RV-SRS values (β=-.781, t=-2.723; p=0.010) and log-LV tissue Doppler imaging E’ (β=2.996, t=-5.405; p=

Postoperative LV dysfunction is associated with poor prognosis and increased mortality in patient with mitral regurgitation undergoing surgery. With this study, we aimed to investigate the predictive value of classic and speckle tracking echocardiographic (STE) LV deformational parameters for estimating postoperative LV dysfunction.Fifty-nine asymptomatic patients with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) due to mitral valve prolapse, who had sinus rhythm and LV ejection fraction (EF) ≥50%, were included. Patients underwent comprehensive and speckle tracking echocardiographic examination before and 6 months after the surgical procedure. Patients were divided into two groups according to postoperative LV function: group A postoperative LV EF≥50% and group B postoperative LV EF50%.Patients in group A were found to have higher LV twist (19.7±6.8° vs 11.9±4.2°; P.001), LV global longitudinal peak strain (GLPS) (-21.7±4 vs -16.5±3.4%; P.001), and circumferential strain (-19.5±5.2 vs -14.4±5.1%; P=.004) values but lower end-systolic diameter (ESD) (3.2±0.6 vs 4.1±0.9 cm; P.001) when compared to group B. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that GLPS, ESD, and twist were independent predictors of postoperative LV functions. In the ROC analysis, GLPS ≥18.4% and twist14.4° predicted postoperative LVEF ≥50%.GLPS and twist measured by 2DSTE are predictors of LV preservation after surgery in severe MR. These parameters may also be used as prognostic predictors and optimal timing of operation in this patient population.

PubMed ID: 28238569, Objective No studies have been conducted in Turkey to compare the quality of stroke prevention therapies provided in different healthcare settings in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Therefore, we aimed to evaluate possible differences between secondary (SH) and tertiary hospital (TH) settings in the effectiveness of implementing AF treatment strategies. Methods Baseline characteristics of 6273 patients with non-valvular AF enrolled in the RAMSES (ReAl-life Multicentre Survey Evaluating Stroke Prevention Strategies in Turkey) study were compared. Results Of the study population, 3312 (52.8%) patients were treated in THs and 2961 (47.2%) patients were treated in SHs. Patients treated in the SH setting were older (70.8 ± 9.8 vs. 68.7 ± 11.4 years, p

WOS: 000398109300008 PubMed ID: 28247458 Background: This study aimed to determine the myocardial damage (infarct size provided by cardiac single-photon emission tomography) in early stages of the infarction using longitudinal strain and rotational parameters of the left ventricle. Methods: The study included 66 patients with anterior myocardial infarction (AMI) and 62 patients with inferior myocardial infarction (IMI) who underwent primary percutaneous intervention as well as a control group consisting of 50 healthy subjects. LV rotational parameters based on parasternal short-axis views in basal and apical planes and global longitudinal strain were measured with apical four-chamber, apical two-chamber, and apical long-axis views. Results: There was a significant positive correlation between infarct size and GLPSavg (r=-.55

A 91-year-old female patient was admitted to hospital for evaluation of transcatheter aortic valve implantation. A chest radiography showed a hiatal hernia, and the stomach and duodenum appeared in the thoracic cavity. The descending aorta was pushed by the stomach and duodenum.

Forty-five-year-old male patient presented with chest pain and dyspnea lasting for three weeks. Transthoracic echocardiography demonstrated a huge right sinus of Valsalva aneurysm. Contrast-enhanced cardiac computed tomography was performed and revealed three large unruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysms.

Bu tezde; R birimli, değişmeli ve birleşmeli bir lokal halka olmak üzere girdileri bir octonion R-cebirden alınarak oluşturulan 3x3 matris uzayının ile gösterilen simetrik elemanlarının bir özel alt kümesi ile çalışılmıştır. kübik R-cebiri üzerinde iz form olarak bir matrisin izi ve norm form olarak bir matrisin determinantı seçilerek elde edilen bir kuadratik Jordan cebir sınıfının elemanları ile bir octonion düzlemin nasıl inşa edildiği incelenmiş ve böylece bu octonion düzlemin üzerinde olma bağıntısı, komşuluk bağıntısı ve bir noktanın bir doğruya yakın olma bağıntısı farklı bir biçimde ifade edilebilmiştir. Son olarak, elde edilen octonion düzlemin bir projektif düzlem olduğu gösterilmiştir. In this thesis; the special subset which consists of symmetric elements of matrix spaces denoted by , whose entries are taken from octonion algebra where is a unital, commutative, associative local ring, is studied. It is examined that how to construction of an octonion plane with the elements of a class of quadratic Jordan algebras which is obtained by choosing trace of a matrix as the trace form and determinant of a matrix as the norm form on the cubic algebra . So the incidence relation, the neighbour relation and the relation to be near to a line of a point can be expressed in different way on this plane. Finally, it is showed that the obtained octonion plane is a projective plane. 94

Objective: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia following coronary artery by-pass graft surgery (CABG). The value of SYNTAX score to predict postoperative atrial fibrillation (PoAF) has not been clearly addressed. We aimed to evaluate this relationship in patients undergoing isolated CABG. Methods: This study was designed as a single-center, non-randomized, observational, prospective study. Ninety-four patients undergoing isolated on-pump CABG, who had sinus rhythm and were older than 18 years, were enrolled. Demographic characteristics of the patients were recorded; SYNTAX score was calculated preoperatively for each patient. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to determine for predictors of PoAF. Results: The median SYNTAX score of the enrolled patients was 21, (56-5). PoAF was observed in 31 (33.3%) patients. Univariate logistic regression showed that age, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), red blood cell distribution width (RDW), urea, initial troponin I, peak postoperative troponin I, interventricular septum, left atrial diameter, and SYNTAX score were significantly associated with the frequency of PoAF following CABG. An independent association was identified with age [ß: 0.088, p:0.023, OR: 1.092, 95% CI (1.012-1.179)], COPD [(ß: 2.222, p:0.003, OR: 9.228, 95% CI (2.150-39.602)], and SYNTAX score [(ß: 0.130, p:0.002, OR: 1.139, 95% CI (1.050-1.235)]. Conclusion: This study showed that a higher SYNTAX score was related to more frequent PoAF in patients undergoing isolated on-pump CABG. © 2016 by Turkish Society of Cardiology.