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Aim. To evaluate and compare the accuracy of determining volemic status by remote dielectric sensing (ReDS) with computed tomography (CT) in patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF).Materials and methods. In 33 patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) hospitalized in the hospital due to acute decompensation of heart failure, twice during hospitalization (on the day of admission and on the day of discharge from the hospital) the determination of the volemic status was performed using ReDS, chest computed tomography (CCT) and chest X-ray. ReDS measurement was compared with CT data using software that allows the use of semi-automated tools to determine mean lung tissue density (MLD). MLD results from Hounsfield units [HU] were converted to fluid levels (HU %), which allowed comparison with ReDS values. In addition, to assess the effect of physical activity on the dynamics of pulmonary congestion, a 6-minute walk test (6MWT) were performed with subsequent determination of the volemic status by the ReDS method.Results. A medium correlation was found between CCT and ReDS data (r = +6.0, p = 0.0002). In the dynamics statistically significant decrease of hypervolemia according to CCT data, which was reflected in the decrease of ReDS index. The fluid content in lungs according to ReDS on average at admission amounted to 37.1 ± 5.3%, at discharge 34.2 ± 4.1% (p = 0.0155). MLD according to CCT at admission was 26.5 ± 6.4 at discharge 22.7 ± 5.6 (P

The purpose of this guide is to assist cardiologists in the management of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) in accordance with the available modern evidence base. This manual contains data on the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of patients with chronic heart failure and data on acute decompensation of heart failure.

Aim. To study the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) relaxation to correct symptoms of depression, anxiety, emotional and cognitive disorders in patients with heart failure (HF).Material and methods. The study included 100 patients with HF aged 21 to 83 years. A main group of 58 people was randomly selected, each of whom received a course of 5 daily VR sessions of a relaxation program. Patients in the control group underwent VR sessions containing distracting visual images without a relaxation program. During the study, mental status of all patients was assessed using questionnaires sensitive to the cognitive and emotional areas.Results. After completing five daily VR sessions with a relaxation program, patients with HF noted a decrease in stress (p=0,031) and improved sleep (p=0,002), and 2 days after completing the VR course — improved well-being (p=0,006), mood (p=0,001), sleep (p=0,003) and decreased stress (p=0,005). In addition, patients in the main group had improved daily activities (p=0,004), pain/discomfort (p=0,007), anxiety/depression (p=0,016) and general well-being (p=0,009).Conclusion. VR relaxation is effective for reducing stress, improving mental status and cognitive functioning in patients with HF.

Heart failure is a serious chronic illness and a global healthcare problem. Patients with heart failure have increased hospital readmission rates and mortality around the world. Heart failure often coexists with comorbidities of which cognitive impairment is particularly important. Сognitive impairment is present in around 30% to 80% in heart failure decreases quality of life and increases the frequency of repeated hospitalizations, increases mortality and worsens the prognosis in such patients. Despite existing research, the underlying pathophysiology of the relationship between heart failure and cognitive impairment remains poorly understood. The article discusses the best available evidence concerning different pathophysiological mechanisms behind cognitive impairment in individuals with heart failure. Heart failure and cognitive impairment have a number of common pathophysiological pathways including reduced cerebral blood flow, inflammation, neurohumoral activations, oxidative stress and changes in serum biomarkers or proteins. Understanding the pathophysiology of diseases will allow the effective evaluation of health status and development of suitable treatments. Prompt detection of cognitive impairment will bring about better clinical outcomes in heart failure patients. This review raises questions about the relationship between heart failure and cognitive dysfunction, provides evidence on the impact of new therapeutic options for treating heart failure on cognitive function, and suggests potential future research directions. For example, implantation of an artificial left ventricle may improve cognitive function; however, there are studies on immediate improvement in cognitive function followed by gradual deterioration over time after implantation of an artificial left ventricle, which requires long-term study In addition, evidence is provided for the effectiveness of using a relaxation scenario in virtual reality technology to reduce anxiety and affective complaints in somatic hospitalized patients, but the ability to improve cognitive function in patients with chronic heart failure remains to be explored.

Aim. To describe demographic and clinical laboratory characteristics, concomitant diseases and drug therapy of outpatients with heart failure (HF) in the Russian Federation.Material and methods. An interim analysis of a prospective observational multicenter registry study of patients with chronic heart failure in the Russian Federation ("PRIORITET-CHF") was performed. The study included outpatients with HF followed by a general practitioner or cardiologist.Results. Data from 6255 patients were analyzed (31,3% of the study sample; median age, 65 years; men, 65%). HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) was diagnosed in 42,4%, HF with preserved EF — in 31,9%. In addition, 57,4% of patients were characterized by NYHA class II HF. The most common causes of HF were hypertension, coronary artery disease, and atrial fibrillation or flutter. Of the concomitant diseases, doctors most often reported chronic kidney disease (CKD) (43,2%), obesity (37,8%) and diabetes (26,7%) in HF.Conclusion. In the Russian Federation, among outpatients with HF, there was domination of men, HFrEF phenotype, NYHA class II. The relatively young mean age and frequent associations of HF with cardiovascular risk factors and diseases underscore the importance of timely prevention initiatives. The identified high proportion of patients with CKD requires special attention and separate analysis. Despite the relatively high prescription rate of certain classes of diseasemodifying therapy for HF, the prescription of optimal quadruple therapy and electrophysiological treatments for HFrEF is insufficient.

Disclaimer. The EAC Guidelines represent the views of the EAC, and were produced after careful consideration of the scientific and medical knowledge, and the evidence available at the time of their publication. The EAC is not responsible in the event of any contradiction, discrepancy, and/or ambiguity between the EAC Guidelines and any other official recommendations or guidelines issued by the relevant public health authorities, in particular in relation to good use of healthcare or therapeutic strategies. Health professionals are encouraged to take the EAC Guidelines fully into account when exercising their clinical judgment, as well as in the determination and the implementation of preventive, diagnostic, or therapeutic medical strategies; however, the EAC Guide-lines do not override, in any way whatsoever, the individual responsibility of health professionals to make appropriate and accurate decisions in consideration of each patient’s health condition and in consultation with that patient and, where appropriate and/or necessary, the patient’s caregiver. Nor do the EAC Guidelines exempt health professionals from taking into full and careful consideration the relevant official updated recommendations or guidelines issued by the competent public health authorities, in order to manage each patient’s case in light of the scientifically accepted data pursuant to their respective ethical and professional obligations. It is also the health professional’s responsibility to verify the applicable rules and regulations relating to drugs and medical devices at the time of prescription.

Heart failure (HF) is a global health problem. Despite advances in the development of effective treatments for patients with heart failure, morbidity and mortality from remain high, and the prognosis is poor. However, there is potential to improve outcomes in HF patients with current disease-modifying therapy. Planning needs and resources, assessing the effectiveness of care for HF patients in clinical practice requires high-quality epidemiological data. Previously performed Russian observational studies of HF were characterized by relatively small sample sizes, inclusion of patients in only one or a few regions, strict selection criteria, single-stage design, or short follow-up. The rationale and design of the all-Russian prospective observational multicenter registry study "PRIORITET-CHF", which included 20000 patients with HF throughout the Russian Federation, is presented. The main aims of the study are to (1) describe baseline clinical and demographic characteristics in outpatients with HF in the Russian Federation and (2) characterize routine therapy and evaluate the compliance of treatment for HF with reduced ejection fraction with current clinical guidelines.

Russian Society of Cardiology, National Society of Preventive Cardiology

The objective of this advisory board meeting was to discuss the place of vericiguat in the treatment algorithm for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction and the necessary requirements for its successful application in clinical practice.

Aim. To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of achieving the target indicator "Reduction of the cardiovascular mortality of the population" of the State Program "Health Development" when using drugs valsartan+sacubitril, dapagliflozin and empagliflozin in patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II-IV heart failure with reduced ejection fraction ≤40% s in 2023-2024.Material and methods. The target population was Russian patients who received preferential medicines in the last two years after an acute cardiovascular disease. The population size was determined on the basis of Russian literary and statistical sources. To predict the cardiovascular death, a parametric modeling method was used based on published data from clinical trials. The amount of drug costs required to prevent one cardiovascular death, as well as to achieve a one target for reducing cardiovascular mortality, was calculated using each of the comparator drugs in the whole country and separately in each region.Results. The cost of drugs for the 1st year of therapy to prevent one cardiovascular death in the case of valsartan+sacubitril was RUB 3,99 million, dapagliflozin — RUB 2,63 million, empagliflozin — RUB 4,43 million. There were following costs required to achieve one target indicator for reducing cardiovascular mortality of the State Program "Health Development" for valsartan+sacubitril, dapagliflozin and empagliflozin:in 2023 — RUB 2197,9 million, RUB 1451,5 million and RUB 2435,9 million, respectively;in 2024 — RUB 627,4 million, RUB 407,7 million and RUB 706,9 million, respectively.Conclusion. Among the agents considered, dapagliflozin seems to be the most cost effective for preventing one cardiovascular death and achieving one of the target "Reduction of the cardiovascular mortality" of the State Program "Health Development" in 2023-2024.

Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR-amyloidosis) is a systemic progressive fatal disease, for which a modifying therapy has recently been proposed that delays the progression of the disease and improves the patient’s quality of life. The delay in the diagnosis of ATTR-amyloidosis is associated with the heterogeneity of the manifestations of the disease, as well as insufficient awareness of doctors of different specialties about the disease. A review of recent studies on the symptomatology, diagnosis, molecular genetic characteristics of ATTR-amyloidosis and the most common forms of the disease with the predominant involvement of peripheral nerves and the heart, as well as the kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, and eyes is presented. The international consensus recommendations for the diagnosis of suspected ATTR-amyloidosis using modern methods that facilitate early and accurate diagnosis are discussed. The reasons and the most frequent misdiagnoses of ATTR-amyloidosis, which also lead to a delay in the timely appointment of therapy, are considered. Molecular genetic testing should be considered early in the evaluation of a patient with unexplained peripheral neuropathy and cardiomyopathy. A diagnostic algorithm based on the initial symptoms and manifestations of the cardiovascular and nervous systems facilitates the identification of a patient with clinical suspicion of ATTR-amyloidosis by the general practitioner. Early diagnosis is critically important for patients with ATTR polyneuropathy, since the early prescription of Vyndaqel (tafamidis), registered in the Russian Federation in 2017, allows a significant clinical effect to be obtained. Timely administration of Vyndaqel significantly slows down the progression of the disease, improves the prognosis and quality of life in patients with ATTR polyneuropathy.

The EAC Guidelines represent the views of the EAC, and were produced after careful consideration of the scientific and medical knowledge, and the evidence available at the time of their publication. The EAC is not responsible in the event of any contradiction, discrepancy, and/or ambiguity between the EAC Guidelines and any other official recommendations or guidelines issued by the relevant public health authorities, in particular in relation to good use of healthcare or therapeutic strategies. Health professionals are encouraged to take the EAC Guidelines fully into account when exercising their clinical judgment, as well as in the determination and the implementation of preventive, diagnostic, or therapeutic medical strategies; however, the EAC Guidelines do not override, in any way whatsoever, the individual responsibility of health professionals to make appropriate and accurate decisions in consideration of each patient’s health condition and in consultation with that patient and, where appropriate and/or necessary, the patient’s caregiver. Nor do the EAC Guidelines exempt health professionals from taking into full and careful consideration the relevant official updated recommendations or guidelines issued by the competent public health authorities, in order to manage each patient’s case in light of the scientifically accepted data pursuant to their respective ethical and professional obligations. It is also the health professional’s responsibility to verify the applicable rules and regulations relating to drugs and medical devices at the time of prescription.

Acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) is based on multilevel pathological pathways, which include hemodynamic overload and venous stasis. Determination of the volemic status is one of the most important tasks in managing such patients. Despite the availability of modern diagnostic markers (physical examination, chest x-ray, and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) assessment), they do not accurately assess the degree of fluid overload, and therefore there remains a need to find a new, accurate and simple technology for assessing pulmonary congestion. The urgency of this problem has led to the development of a novel non-invasive remote dielectric sensing (ReDS) technology, which is a quantitative method for measuring the total volume of lung fluid by determining the tissue dielectric properties. The use of this technology makes it possible to quickly, non-invasively and quantitatively measure the fluid content in the lungs, makes it possible to optimize the treatment regimen and reduces the number of readmissions. This article presents the results of studies on the efficacy, safety and prospects for using a ReDS technology for the quantitative measurement of total lung fluid in patients with ADHF.

Iron deficiency (ID) is one of the most common comorbidities in patients with heart failure (HF). ID is a strong independent predictor of outcomes in HF patients. ID reduces quality of life, exercise tolerance, and survival in patients with HF, regardless of anemia status. The latest 2021 guidelines recommend initiating ID treatment at a ferritin

An online expert meeting held on November 17, 2021 reviewed the results of the randomized, double-blind, multinational, parallel-group EMPULSE trial, evaluating the clinical benefit and safety of the sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) empagliflozin compared with placebo in patients hospitalized with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). Patients were included in the study regardless of ejection fraction (EF) and the presence of diabetes and randomized during hospitalization after stabilization. In addition, the EMPULSE trial used a composite result analyzed using a stratified benefit ratio — Win Ratio analysis. There is evidence of clinical benefit of empagliflozin in hospitalized patients with preserved and reduced LVEF, as well as in patients with newly diagnosed ADHF or with acute decompensation of chronic heart failure (CHF) compared with placebo, regardless of type 2 diabetes presence. The importance of the favorable results of the EMPULSE trial and its significance for clinical practice, which implies the early administration of empagliflozin for inpatients, is noted. A number of proposals have been adopted to accelerate the introduction of empagliflozin into clinical practice for patients with ADHF.

Cardiovascular diseases are the main drivers of the morbidity and mortality in Russian Federation. We briefly discussed the poor adherence of the patients and outlined the solutions of this problem.

Disclaimer The EAC/NSHFMD Guidelines represent the views of the EAC and NSHFMD, and were produced after careful consideration of the scientific and medical knowledge, and the evidence available at the time of their publication. The EAC and NSHFMD is not responsible in the event of any contradiction, discrepancy, and/or ambiguity between the EAC/NSHFMD Guidelines and any other official recommendations or guidelines issued by the relevant public health authorities, in particular in relation to good use of healthcare or therapeutic strategies. Health professionals are encouraged to take the EAC/NSHFMD Guidelines fully into account when exercising their clinical judgment, as well as in the determination and the implementation of preventive, diagnostic, or therapeutic medical strategies; however, the EAC/NSHFMD Guidelines do not override, in any way whatsoever, the individual responsibility of health professionals to make appropriate and accurate decisions in consideration of each patient’s health condition and in consultation with that patient and, where appropriate and/or necessary, the patient’s caregiver. Nor do the EAC/NSHFMD Guidelines exempt health professionals from taking into full and careful consideration the relevant official updated recommendations or guidelines issued by the competent public health authorities, in order to manage each patient’s case in light of the scientifically accepted data pursuant to their respective ethical and professional obligations. It is also the health professional’s responsibility to verify the applicable rules and regulations relating to drugs and medical devices at the time of prescription.Members of the Working Group confirmed the lack of financial support/ conflict of interest. In the event of a conflict of interest being reported, the member (s) of the Working Group was (were) excluded from the discussion of sections related to the area of conflict of interest.E.B. Wataman professor, Dr. of Sci. (Med.) (Moldova); E.K. Kurlyanskaya, Cand. of Sci. (Med.) (Belarus); A.M. Noruzbaeva professor (Kyrgyzstan); V.A. Azizov professor (Azerbaijan); Zelveyan P.A., Dr. of Sci. (Med.) (Armenia)

The aim of the study was focused on the development of a decision rule for classifying patients as functional class (FC) II or III of chronic heart failure (CHF) by discriminant analysis with inflammatory markers.Materials and methods. The study included CHF patients (n = 61) of both sexes. According to symptom severity, they were assigned to FC II (n = 20) and III (n = 41). In addition to conventional clinical and biochemical parameters to evaluate a patient’s state, parameters characterizing inflammation (IL-6, soluble IL-6 receptor, sgp130) were used. Statistically significant differences were revealed with the use of Mann – Whitney U test, Student’s t-test, Pearson’s χ2 test and Fisher’s exact test. Discriminant analysis was employed to formulate the decision rule. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate the quality of the developed diagnostic test. The results were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05.Results. Discriminant analysis included significantly different variables (age, brain natriuretic peptide, sgp130, CHF etiology, ischemic heart disease) and additional clinically important variables (diastolic and systolic arterial blood pressure (BP), IL-6). The decision rule for assigning patients to different CHF FC was developed. The optimum cut-off value was found with the use of the ROC curve with a sensitivity of 75.6% and specificity of 85%.Conclusion. The decision rule for assigning CHF patients to FC II or III was developed using discriminant analysis. In addition to conventional clinical parameters, the model included the ones reflecting inflammatory processes (IL-6 and sgp130). ROC analysis revealed high quality of the model.

Aim. To assess the effect of therapy with sodium glucose co-transporter type 2 inhibitor dapagliflozin in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (CHrEF) on the state cardiovascular mortality target indicators.Material and methods. All adult Russian patients with NYHA class II-IV HFrEF (left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40%) were considered as the target population. The characteristics of patients in the study corresponded to those in the Russian Hospital HF Registry (RUS-HFR). The study suggests that the use of dapagliflozin in addition to standard therapy will be expanded by 10% of the patient population annually in 2022-24. Cardiovascular mortality modeling was performed based on the extrapolation of DAPA-HF study result. The number of deaths that can be prevented was calculated when using dapagliflozin in addition to standard therapy. Further, the contribution of prevented deaths with dapagliflozin therapy to the achievement of federal and regional cardiovascular mortality target indicators (1, 2 and 3 years) was calculated.Results. The use of dapagliflozin in addition to standard therapy for patients with NYHA class II-IV CHrEF with the expansion of dapagliflozin therapy by 10% of the patient population annually will additionally prevent 1729 cardiovascular death in the first year. This will ensure the implementation of cardiovascular mortality target indicators in Russia in 2022 by 11,8%. In the second year, 3769 cardiovascular deaths will be prevented, which will ensure the implementation of target indicators in 2023 by 17,2%. In the third year, 5465 cardiovascular deaths prevented, which will ensure the implementation of implementation of target indicators in 2024 by 18,7%.Conclusion. The use of dapagliflozin in addition to standard therapy for patients with NYHA class II-IV CHrEF will ensure the implementation of implementation of target indicators in 2024 by 18,7%.

Russian Society of Cardiology (RSC)With the participation: Eurasian Association of Therapists (EUAT), Society of Specialists in Heart Failure (OSSN), Russian Scientific Medical Society of Therapists (RNMOT), Russian Society of Pathologists, Russian Society of Radiologists and Radiologists (RSR)Endorsed by: Research and Practical Council of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation

Heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are the most common cardiovascular conditions in clinical practice and frequently coexist. The number of patients with HF and AF is increasing every year.Aim. To analyze the effect of clinical course and management of HF and AF on the outcomes.Material and methods. The data of 1,003 patients from the first Russian register of patients with HF and AF (RIF-CHF) were analyzed. The endpoints included hospitalization due to decompensated HF, cardiovascular mortality, thromboembolic events, and major bleeding. Predictors of unfavorable outcomes were analyzed separately for patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (AF+HFpEF), mid-range ejection fraction (AF+HFmrEF), and reduced ejection fraction (AF+HFrEF).Results. Among all patients with HF, 39% had HFpEF, 15% — HFmrEF, and 46% — HFrEF. A total of 57,2% of patients were rehospitalized due to decompensated HF within one year. Hospitalization risk was the highest for HFmrEF patients (66%, p=0,017). Reduced ejection fraction was associated with the increased risk of cardiovascular mortality (15,5% vs 5,4% in other groups, p

At the online meeting held on September 3, 2020, the results of the international multicenter trial EMPEROR-REDUCED were considered. Number of proposals and recommendations for the further study of cardiovascular and renal effects of empagliflozin and its practical use in heart failure patients were agreed.

Aim. To assess the effect of dapagliflozin in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) on reducing cardiovascular mortality as the main goal of a federal project on the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.Material and methods. All adult Russian patients with a documented NYHA class II-IV HFrEF (EF £40%) were considered the target population. The characteristics of the patients corresponded to those of the Russian Hospital Heart Failure Registry (RUS-HFR). The study looked at an increase in the dapagliflozin use in addition to standard therapy by 10% of patients annually in 2021-2023 and calculated the number of deaths that could be prevented. Cardiovascular mortality curve was created by extrapolation of the DAPA-HF study results using the Kaplan-Meier method. Further, the contribution of prevented deaths with dapagliflozin to the achievement of regional and federal targets for reducing cardiovascular mortality was calculated for 1, 2, and 3 years. Results. In case of 10% annual increase in dapagliflozin use in patients with NYHA class II-IV HFrEF, this will allow:— to prevent an additional 1,736 cardiovascular deaths in the first year, achieving the target of federal project on the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in 2021 by 5,9%;— to prevent an additional 3,784 cardiovascular deaths in the second year, achieving the target of federal project on the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in 2022 by 12,9%;— to prevent an additional 5,485 cardiovascular deaths in the third year, achieving the target of federal project on the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in 2023 by 18,7%.Conclusion. The use of dapagliflozin in patients with HFrEF will reduce mortality from cardiovascular diseases.

Relationships and Activities. The Council of Experts was supported by AstraZeneca.

Expert Council opinion describes emergency care in a sudden individually significant blood pressure (BP) increase without clinically overt target organ damage. In the new guidelines of the Russian Society of Cardiology, the term “hypertensive urgency” was abolished, and the management of a sudden BP increase was changed. At the same time, a sudden individually significant BP increase may be accompanied by symptoms that reduce patients’ quality of life and ability to work. According to experts, individually significant BP increase accompanied by symptoms requires outpatient treatment using oral rapid-onset drugs with an optimal duration of action, in particular captopril. It has a much evidence-based data on the BP increase use and sublingual administration, and also has a favorable safety profile, which allows prescribing to patients with comorbid diseases. The rationale for the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor Capoten (captopril) as a drug for self-management of a sudden individually significant BP increase accompanied by symptoms in hypertension patients is describes.

Background. Levosimendan infusion can be used in the treatment of patients with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) with a reduction in cardiac output and signs of severe congestion/pulmonary edema.Aim. To study impact of levosimendan on renal function in patients with ADHF with reduced systolic function.Material and methods. The study was a prospective, randomized trial. We enrolled 30 men (age 62.5 [55.8-69.3] years) hospitalized with ADHF with reduced systolic function (left ventricular ejection fraction 500 pg/mL) and systolic blood pressure >125 mmHg. All patients were randomized into 2 groups of 15 people each. In the first group, the patients received an intravenous infusion of levosimendan 0.1 μg/kg/min for 24 hour added to standard therapy. The second group received standard therapy.Results. 24-hour levosimendan infusion significantly increased the glomerular filtration rate levels from 65.4 [45.2-99.2] mL/min/1.73m2 at baseline to 79.0 [66.3-93.1] mL/min/1.73m2 at discharge (p= 0.011), greatly decreased serum creatinine from 1.17 [0.90-1.55] mg/dL at baseline to 1.01 [0.89-1.14] mg/dL at discharge (p = 0.009) and blood urea nitrogen and at the same time improved renal blood flow in patients with ADHF while there were no clinically significant changes in the studied parameters in the standard therapy group.Conclusion. Levosimendan had a positive effect on renal function in patients with ADHF with reduced systolic function.

Histological analysis of endomyocardial tissue is still the gold standard for the diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis but has its limitations. Accordingly, there is a need for noninvasive techniques to cardiac amyloidosis diagnostics. Echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging can show characteristics which may not be very specific for cardiac amyloid. Recently, new opportunities of nuclear imaging in risk stratification and assessment of prognosis for patients with cardiac amyloidosis have appeared. During the last two decades different classes of radiopharmaceuticals have been developed based on compounds tropic to the components of amyloid infiltrates. In this paper we describe the current possibilities and perspectives of nuclear medicine techniques in patients with cardiac amyloidosis, including osteotropic and neurotropic scintigraphy, single-photon and positron emission tomography

Management of patients with terminal heart failure is one of the most serious ongoing problems in cardiac surgery. In addition, the clinical progression of heart failure is often characterized by cardiac rhythm disturbances, with atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter being the most common types of these disorders. The prognosis may be extremely unfavorable if inappropriate tactics of treatment is used. Development of interventional and minimally invasive surgery expanded the possibilities of treatment of such patients. The article looks at some application features of a hybrid approach to treatment of a patient with atrial flutter and a terminal stage of chronic heart failure.Received 3 May 2017. Accepted 24 June 2017.Funding: The study did not have sponsorship.Conflict of interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Aim. To evaluate diagnostic significance of biomarkers for inflammatory cardiomyopathy (ICM).Material and methods. Totally, 35 patients included with suspected inflammatory cardiomyopathy, chronic heart failure of I-III functional class (FC), decreased systolic function of the left ventricle (EF LV

Since the beginning of the 1960s, beta-blockers have been number one medications in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. A number of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrated positive effect of beta-blockers on morbidity and mortality [1]. It is difficult to overestimate the role of beta-blockers in modern cardiology. According to the results of a meta-analysis of 18 RCTs, administration of beta-blockers in patients with a risk of cardiovascular disease was associated with a reduction of the risk of stroke by 29%, coronary heart disease (CHD) by 7%, and chronic heart failure (CHF) by 29% [2]. In combination with ACE inhibitors, antiplatelet agents and statins, beta blockers helped to decrease mortality from acute coronary syndrome by 90% [3].

Heart failure and atrial fibrillation are the most common cardiovascular conditions in clinical practice and frequently coexist. The number of patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation is increasing every year. Nowadays the question of anticoagulant therapy for this category of patients is being discussed. In our review we summarized data on the guideline adherence and prevalence of long-term anticoagulant therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation and heart failure.

The review analyzes new treatment for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) with low ejection fraction – cardiac contractility modulation (CCM). CCM is carried out by supplying electric signals to an absolutely refractory ventricular myocardium, to elicit a positive inotropic effect without increasing myocardial oxygen consumption. These effects are independent on QRS duration; consequently, the therapy might be beneficial for patients who are not candidates for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). It should be noted that the use of CCM treatment of CHF should begin only with maximum active therapy when its efficacy is not enough. It is not an alternative, but complement to the most active treatment of patients. Clinical studies primarily focused on patients with normal QRS duration because the CPT is optimal treatment of patients with prolonged QRS. The article focuses on the prerequisites for the development of the method and discusses the results obtained when evaluating the clinical efficacy and safety of treatment of patients with CHF in randomized clinical trials FIX-HF-3 (n=25), FIX-HF-4 (n=164), FIX-HF-5 (n=428). The total number of patients included into these studies was 617 people. Baseline patient characteristics were similar for all 3 studies. All participants received optimal medical therapy, had a normal QRS duration. All patients were II and III functional class (by NYHA). The studies analyzed the changes in NYHA class, ejection fraction, peak oxygen consumption (VO2), the precursor of brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) level. Quality of life was assessed by the Minnesota questionnaire; the mortality rate was compared with that predicted by MAGGIC scale. CCM therapy had beneficial effect on the survival and quality of life in patients with CHF. However, more data is needed to assess long-term effects of the CCM therapy.

By the date, acute heart failure (AHf) is of the most significant problems in whole world healthcare, as it is one of the main causes for hospitalization to specialized units and intensive care units. About 80% of AHf cases are due to acute decompensation (AD) of heart failure (Hf), and if formerly AHf was regarded as a condition actual only for elderly (older than 70), now these are the patients “younger” — economically active (50-65 y.o.), what makes AHf not just medical but social, economical problem, demanding special attention from policies and healthcare. It is crucial to diagnose on-time for risk stratification and correct assessment. Also, mechanisms of AHf are complicated and are not studied completely, that is why till now there is no single strategy for that sort of patients management. Understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms of Hf development has been changed significantly recent decades, from simple hemodynamic model to a conception of systemic multifactorial process, with involved multiple mechanisms of various organs and systems interaction. Hemodynamic overloads, venous congestion, neuro-humoral systems activation, natri-uretic peptides, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and its influence on the heart and vessels remodeling, as mechanisms of cellular adaptation are currently the main in AHf pathogenesis reasons.

Heart failure remains one of the main problems in contemporary cardiology, taken high frequency of hospitalizations due to acute decompensation, and worse prognosis for this category of patients. One of the drugs influencing prognosis is serelaxin (recombinant human relaxin-2). Experience of serelaxin usage as 48-hour infusion for patients with ADHF showed rapid positive influence of the drug on clinical signs and symptoms, target organ damage markers (BNP, creatinine), hemodynamics parameters (MPAP).

Details of pre-hospital medical care organization in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) with ST segment elevation are discussed. The algorithm of pre-hospital diagnostics and emergency cardiac care to these patients is presented. The necessary methods of examination, drugs and their dosages are specified. The importance of reperfusion as a key approach to ACS patients treatment is emphasized. Advantages and disadvantages of reperfusion therapeutic methods and algorithm of their choice are presented.

Aim. To determine indications for differential prescription of beta-blockers in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and to study efficacy and safety of beta-blockers therapy.Material and Methods. Patients (n=90; 55.6% of men; aged 64.7±1.9 y.o.) with CHF class 3-4 NYHA of ischemic and non-ischemic etiology with inadequate treatment with beta-blockers were included in the study. Patients were randomized into 3 groups depending on received beta-blocker: group 1 (n=30) — bisoprolol, group 2 (n=30) — carvedilol, group 3 (n=30) — nebivolol. Study duration was 6 months. Clinical examination (physical, laboratory and instrumental tests) and assessment of the adverse events was performed at baseline and after 6 months. Multiple regression analysis was performed to determine the probability of efficiency achievement by using different parameters (target heart rate, mortality, side effects, hospitalization, 6-minute walk test, left ventricle ejection fraction (LV EF), glomerular filtration rate).Results. Significant increase in LV EF was found: in group 1 from 32.4±6.1 to 47.2±4.1% (p=0.049); in group 2 from 31.3±8.4 to 46.5±4.2% (p=0.047); in group 3 from 30.3±6.9 to 46.8±4.0% (p=0.043). Class NYHA decreased in group 1 from 3.5±0.5 to 2.3±0.3 (p=0.044); in group 2 from 3.4±0.6 to 2.1±0.2 (p=0.045) and in group 3 from 3.6±0.4 to 2.4±0.4 (p=0.038). The hospitalization rate due to heart failure decompensation was 16.7, 16.7 and 13.3%, respectively. Mortality in groups during 6 months was 6.7, 0.0 and 3.3%, respectively. The efficacy of CHF therapy with betablockers depended on comorbidity and demographic characteristics. The highest refractoriness to CHF therapy was in patients with chronic kidney failure, atrial fibrillation and anemia (odds efficiency was 2.2, 2.9 and 3.1%, respectively). Bisoprolol was the most effective beta-blocker for the CHF patients treatment according to the majority of dependent variables in multiple regression analysis (p=22.13 vs. 20.66 for carvedilol and 18.69 for nebivolol).Conclusion. A differentiated approach to the beta-blocker prescription depending on the initial clinical and demographic patient characteristics can improve efficacy of the CHF treatment.

Data about efficacy and safety of long-term therapy with acetylsalicylic acid in patients with cardiovascular diseases are presented. The main practical ways to reduce the possible gastrointestinal complications of the treatment are discussed.

Aim. To compare clinical and haemodynamic efficacy of ramipril vs enalapril in women with chronic heart failure (CHF).Material and methods. 60 women with non valvular CHF were included in the study. Patients were randomized in groups of ramipril or enalapril taken in addition to standard therapy. CHF severity, heart morphofunctional parameters, life quality, exercise tolerance, biomarkers (brain natriuretic peptide, von Willebrand factor) was estimated in patients initially and after 6 months of therapy.Results. Ramipril average daily dose was 11,4 mg, enalapril average daily dose - 34,2 mg. Dry cough was observed more rarely in patients treated with ramipril than in patients treated with enalapril. There was a trend to higher increase of exercise tolerance due to ramipril therapy in comparison with enalapril one (р=0,062). Ramipril, but not enalapril, reduced a number of patients with diastolic dysfunction (р=0,049). Life quality improvement was higher in ramipril treated patients in comparison with those treated with enalapril (р=0,04). Brain natriuretic peptide and von Willebrand factor levels decreased more significantly in ramipril therapy than in enalapril one (р=0,05 and р

A comparison of ivabradine and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, drugs with principally different mechanisms of action, is presented in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) on the base of GISSI-HF and SHIFT trails results. It is essential to compaire an effect of these drugs on the morbidity and mortality in combined therapy of patients with CHF , because each additional drug may change in compliance to treatment, induces additional costs or may be a reason of new side effects. Additional (to standard therapy) effects of ivabradine and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are discussed.

The results of recent trials on acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) efficacy are presented. Data potentially related to the possibility of ASA indications extension is discussed, in particular that referring to the cancer prevention. This ASA indication should be confirmed in additional studies.

Chronic heart failure (CHF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) can rightly be called the epidemic of the XXI century, which are associated with high morbidity and mortality of patients. Common risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms explain the frequent combination of CHF and AF. So far, a number of issues related to management of these patients, remains unresolved. Data on compliance with clinical guidelines and the prevalence of long-term anticoagulant therapy in this group of patients in our country is limited. The first Russian register of CHF and AF (RIF-CHF) is initiated in order to better address this problem. The results allow to develop the most rational therapeutic and diagnostic strategies and, ultimately, to improve the clinical outcomes of such severe patients.

The cardiovascular morbidity in developed countries has decreased, but only in men and it has increased in women. The risk of cardiovascular diseases in premenopausal women is 2-4 times less than this in men. A role of hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases is reviewed. The results of retrospective and plaсebo-controlled trials are presented. Cellular cardioprotective mechanisms of action of female sex hormones are shown.

Chronic heart failure (CHF) and atrial fibrillation (AF) can rightly be called the epidemic of the XXI century, which are associated with high morbidity and mortality of patients. Common risk factors and pathophysiological mechanisms explain the frequent combination of CHF and AF. So far, a number of issues related to management of these patients, remains unresolved. Data on compliance with clinical guidelines and the prevalence of long-term anticoagulant therapy in this group of patients in our country is limited. The first Russian register of CHF and AF (RIF-CHF) is initiated in order to better address this problem. The results allow to develop the most rational therapeutic and diagnostic strategies and, ultimately, to improve the clinical outcomes of such severe patients.

The results of recent trials on acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) efficacy are presented. Data potentially related to the possibility of ASA indications extension is discussed, in particular that referring to the cancer prevention. This ASA indication should be confirmed in additional studies.

The cardiovascular morbidity in developed countries has decreased, but only in men and it has increased in women. The risk of cardiovascular diseases in premenopausal women is 2-4 times less than this in men. A role of hormone replacement therapy for postmenopausal women in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases is reviewed. The results of retrospective and plaсebo-controlled trials are presented. Cellular cardioprotective mechanisms of action of female sex hormones are shown.

A comparison of ivabradine and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, drugs with principally different mechanisms of action, is presented in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) on the base of GISSI-HF and SHIFT trails results. It is essential to compaire an effect of these drugs on the morbidity and mortality in combined therapy of patients with CHF , because each additional drug may change in compliance to treatment, induces additional costs or may be a reason of new side effects. Additional (to standard therapy) effects of ivabradine and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are discussed.

Chronic heart failure (CHF) today is a heart condition with the least favourable prognosis. Over the past 10-15 years, in addition to strong rationale supporting the effectiveness of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI), results of use were obtained for angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB) and beta-blockers (BB), as well as new pharmacotherapies, such as mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MCRA), sinoatrial node activity inhibitors, and non-pharmacological interventions - implantable cardioverter-defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization therapy. The recent clinical guidelines for diagnosis and treatment of heart failure provide different classes of recommendation and levels of evidence for the mentioned approaches. One of the most significant changes in CHF pharmacotherapy is supplementation of ACEI and BB with MCRA as the primary treatment for patients with systolic heart failure (class I recommendation, A level of evidence). In this article, we would like to focus on the key aspects of using MCRA in patients with CHF.

In this review data of clinical investifation of serelaxin were briefly outlined. In these trials administration of serelaxin just after admission in the hospitals was acoompanied by middle-term improvement of survival of patients with acute heart failure.