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Background: The LATE score (LATE: Left Atrial reservoir strain (LASr), Tricuspid regurgitation maximum velocity (TR Vmax), and E/e' average) is a novel framework for echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular filling pressure (LVFP). LATE = 0 indicates normal LVFP. LATE = 1 indicates resting LVFP is borderline elevated, and the patient may be at risk of pathological elevation of LVFP during exertion. LATE ≥2 indicates LVFP is severely elevated., Methods: The LATE score was derived from reported thresholds of LASr and conventional echocardiographic parameters for predicting LVFP. The LATE score was prospectively evaluated in a cross-sectional study of 63 patients undergoing transthoracic echocardiography immediately prior to cardiac catheterization with invasive assessment of LVFP. Accuracy of the LATE score was compared to 2016 ASE diastology algorithms., Results: Mean patient age was 62.9 ± 13.6 years with 22% female. LATE = 0 in 29 patients, of which 24 (83%) had normal LVFP (mean LVFP 9 mmHg, SD ±3 mmHg). LATE = 1 in 23 patients, of which 11 (48%) had elevated LVFP (mean LVFP 12 mmHg, SD ± 4 mmHg). LATE was ≥2 in 11 patients, all of which had elevated LVFP (100%) (mean LVFP 16 mmHg, SD ±3 mmHg). The LATE score showed greater agreement with invasive assessment than the 2016 algorithms (LATE kappa = 0.73, 2016 kappa = 0.37)., Conclusions: The LATE score is a simple and effective tool for evaluation of LVFP that is more accurate than the 2016 algorithms. The LATE score provides insight beyond binary classification of normal versus elevated LVFP., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Accurate measurements of the aortic annulus and root are important for guiding therapeutic decisions regarding the need for aortic surgery. Current echocardiographic guidelines for identification of aortic root dilatation are limited because current normative values were derived predominantly from white individuals in narrow age ranges, and based partially on M-mode measurements. Using data from the World Alliance Societies of Echocardiography study, the authors sought to establish normal ranges of aortic dimensions across sexes, races, and a wide range of ages., Methods: Adult individuals free of heart, lung, and kidney disease were prospectively enrolled from 15 countries, with even distributions among sexes and age groups: young (18-40 years), middle aged (41-65 years) and old (>65 years). Transthoracic two-dimensional echocardiograms of 1,585 subjects (mean age, 47 ± 17 years; 50.4% men; mean body surface area [BSA], 1.77 ± 0.22 m 2 ) were analyzed in a core laboratory following American Society of Echocardiography guidelines. Measurements, indexed separately by BSA and by height, included the aortic annulus, sinuses of Valsalva, and sinotubular junction. Differences among age, sex, and racial groups were evaluated using unpaired two-tailed Student's t tests., Results: All aortic root dimensions were larger in men compared with women. After indexing to BSA, all measured dimensions were significantly larger in women, whereas men continued to show larger dimensions after indexing to height. Of note, the upper limits of normal for all aortic dimensions were lower across all age groups, compared with the guidelines. Aortic dimensions were larger in older age groups in both sexes, a trend that persisted regardless of BSA or height adjustment. Last, differences in aortic dimensions were also observed according to race: Asians had the smallest nonindexed aortic dimensions at all levels., Conclusions: There are significant differences in aortic dimensions according to sex, age, and race. Thus, current guideline-recommended normal ranges may need to be adjusted to account for these differences., (Copyright © 2021 American Society of Echocardiography. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Left ventricular mechanical dispersion (LVMD) is a novel speckle tracking parameter for prognostic assessment of arrhythmic risk prediction. There is growing evidence to support its use in a variety of cardiomyopathic processes. There is paucity of data addressing any presence of inter-vendor discrepancies for LVMD. The aim of this study was to assess inter-vendor variability of LVMD in vendor specific software (VSS) and vendor independent software (VIS) in subjects with preserved and reduced left ventricular function., Methods: Fifty-nine subjects (14 normal subjects and 45 subjects with cardiac disease) were recruited and 2D speckle tracking echocardiographic images were acquired on two different ultrasound machines (GE and Philips). LVMD was measured by two different VSS (EchoPac GE and QLAB Philips) and one VIS (TomTec Arena)., Results: There was significant bias and wide limits of agreement (LOA) in the overall cohort observed between two different VSS (17.6 ms; LOA: -29.6 to 64.8; r: .47). There was acceptable bias and narrower LOA with good agreement for LVMD between images obtained on different vendors when performed on VIS (-3.1 ms; LOA: -27.6 to 21.4; r: .75). QLAB LVMD was consistently higher than GE LVMD and TomTec LVMD in both preserved and reduced left ventricular function. LVMD measurements have high intra-vendor reproducibility with excellent inter and intra-observer agreement., Conclusions: There was acceptable bias and narrower LOA for LVMD assessment on a VIS. Inter-vendor variability exists for LVMD assessment between VSS. Serial measurements of LVMD should be performed using a single vendor for consistent and reliable results., (© 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: Assessment of cardiac output (CO) and stroke volume (SV) is essential to understand cardiac function and hemodynamics. These parameters can be examined using three echocardiographic techniques (pulsed-wave Doppler, two-dimensional [2D], and three-dimensional [3D]). Whether these methods can be used interchangeably is unclear. The influence of age, sex, and ethnicity on CO and SV has also not been examined in depth. In this report from the World Alliance of Societies of Echocardiography Normal Values Study, the authors compare CO and SV in healthy adults according to age, sex, ethnicity, and measurement techniques., Methods: A total of 1,450 adult subjects (53% men) free of heart, lung, and kidney disease were prospectively enrolled in 15 countries, with even distributions among age groups and sex. Subjects were divided into three age groups (young, 18-40 years; middle aged, 41-65 years; and old, >65 years) and three main racial groups (whites, blacks, and Asians). CO and SV were indexed (cardiac index [CI] and SV index [SVI], respectively) to body surface area and height and measured using three echocardiographic methods: Doppler, 2D, and 3D. Images were analyzed at two core laboratories (one each for 2D and 3D)., Results: CI and SVI were significantly lower by 2D compared with both Doppler and 3D methods in both sexes. SVI was significantly lower in women than men by all three methods, while CI differed only by 2D. SVI decreased with aging by all three techniques, whereas CI declined only with 2D and 3D. CO and SV were smallest in Asians and largest in whites, and the differences persisted after normalization for body surface area., Conclusions: The present results provide normal reference values for CO and SV, which differ by age, sex, and race. Furthermore, CI and SVI measurements by the different echocardiographic techniques are not interchangeable. All these factors need to be taken into account when evaluating cardiac function and hemodynamics in individual patients., (Copyright © 2021 American Society of Echocardiography. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: The World Alliance Societies of Echocardiography (WASE) Normal Values Study evaluates individuals from multiple countries and races with the aim of describing normative values that could be applied to the global community worldwide and to determine differences and similarities among people from different countries and races. The present report focuses specifically on two-dimensional (2D) left ventricular (LV) dimensions, volumes, and systolic function., Methods: The WASE Normal Values Study is a multicenter international, observational, prospective, cross-sectional study of healthy adult individuals. Participants recruited in each country were evenly distributed among six predetermined subgroups according to age and gender. Comprehensive 2D transthoracic echocardiograms were acquired and analyzed following strict protocols based on recent American Society of Echocardiography and European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging guidelines. Analysis was performed at the WASE 2D core laboratory and included 2D LV dimensions, LV volumes, and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) by the biplane Simpson method and global longitudinal strain (GLS)., Results: Two thousand eight subjects were enrolled in 15 countries. The median age was 45 years (interquartile range, 32-65 years), 42.8% were white, 41.8% were Asian, and 9.7% were black. LV dimensions and volumes were larger in male subjects, while LVEF and GLS were higher in female subjects. Global WASE normal ranges for LV dimensions were smaller than those in the guidelines, but the upper limits of normal for LV volumes and the lower limits of normal for LVEF were higher in the WASE study. Significant intercountry variation was identified for all LV parameters reflecting LV size (dimensions, mass, and volumes) even after indexing to body surface area, with LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes having the highest variation. The largest volumes were noted in Australia, while the smallest were measured in India for both genders. This finding suggests that in addition to gender and body surface area, specific country should be considered when evaluating LV volumes. Intercountry variation for LVEF and GLS was smaller but still statistically significant (P < .05 for all)., Conclusions: LV dimensions and volumes are larger in men, while LVEF and GLS are higher in women. Current guideline-recommended normal ranges for LV volumes and LVEF should be adjusted. Intercountry variability is significant for LV volumes, and therefore nationality should be considered for defining ranges of normality., (Copyright © 2019 American Society of Echocardiography. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an effective therapeutic option for severe symptomatic aortic valve stenosis (AS) with intermediate or high surgical risk. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of TAVI on left ventricular (LV) mechanics using multilayer global longitudinal strain (GLS) by 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography. A total of 119 patients (mean age 83 ± 7.0 years, male 54%) with severe symptomatic AS and normal LV ejection fraction (LVEF) underwent echocardiography at baseline and 1 month after TAVI. Global longitudinal strain was measured from the endocardial layer (GLSendo), mid-ventricular layer (GLSmyo), epicardial layer (GLSepi) and full thickness of myocardium (GLSwhole). There was significant improvement in all 3 layers of GLS after TAVI compared with baseline, but there was no significant change in LVEF. The relative % increment in GLS in each layer strain were 11.2 ± 23.4% (GLSendo), 13.4 ± 33.0% (GLSmyo) and 18.0 ± 46.6% (GLSepi) with significant difference between GLSendo and GLSepi (p < 0.05). In conclusion, multilayer GLS is more sensitive than conventional LVEF to detect early improvement in LV systolic function after TAVI in patients with severe AS. There is a disproportional improvement in different layers with least improvement in the endocardium. Multilayer strain analysis may provide new insights into understanding mechanics of AS., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Aims: Non-invasive left ventricular (LV) pressure-strain loop (PSL) provides a novel method of quantifying myocardial work (MW) with potential advantages over conventional global longitudinal strain (GLS) by incorporating measurements of myocardial deformation and LV pressure. We investigated different patterns of LV PSL and global MW index (GWI) in patients with hypertension (HTN) and dilated cardiomyopathy (CMP)., Methods and Results: Seventy-four patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography and strain analysis before coronary angiography. Patients were divided into three groups: control, HTN, and CMP. GWI was calculated as the area of the LV PSL as a product of strain × systolic blood pressure. MW efficiency (GWE) is derived from the percentage ratio of constructive work (GCW) to sum of constructive work (GCW) and wasted work (GWW). Influences of HTN and LV function on its relationship with MW were evaluated. GLS and LV ejection fraction were preserved in the HTN group with no difference from controls. GWI was significantly higher in moderate to severe HTN patients (P = 0.004) as a compensatory mechanism to preserve LV contractility and function against an increase in afterload. GWE was preserved in HTN patients due to the proportional increase in GCW and GWW. GLS, GWI, and GWE were significantly reduced in CMP (P < 0.05), with a trend in rightward shift and reduction in the LV PSL., Conclusion: GWI is a potential new technique that allows better understanding of the relationship between LV remodelling and increased wall stress under different loading conditions.

Background: The application of left ventricular (LV) global strain by speckle-tracking is becoming more widespread, with the potential for incorporation into routine clinical echocardiography in selected patients. There are no guidelines or recommendations for the training requirements to achieve competency. The aim of this study was to determine the learning curve for global strain analysis and determine the number of studies that are required for independent reporting., Methods: Three groups of novice observers (cardiology fellows, cardiac sonographers, medical students) received the same standardized training module prior to undertaking retrospective global strain analysis on 100 patients over a period of 3 months. To assess the effect of learning, quartiles of 25 patients were read successively by each blinded observer, and the results were compared to expert for correlation., Results: Global longitudinal strain (GLS) had uniform learning curves and was the easiest to learn, requiring a minimum of 50 patients to achieve expert competency (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.9) in all three groups over a period of 3 months. Prior background knowledge in echocardiography is an influential factor affecting the learning for interobserver reproducibility and time efficiency. Short-axis strain analysis using global circumferential stain and global radial strain did not yield a comprehensive learning curve, and expert level was not achieved by the end of the study., Conclusions: There is a significant learning curve associated with LV strain analysis. We recommend a minimum of 50 studies for training to achieve competency in GLS analysis., (Copyright © 2017 American Society of Echocardiography. All rights reserved.)

Aims: We aimed to assess intervendor agreement of global (GLS) and regional longitudinal strain by vendor-specific software after EACVI/ASE Industry Task Force Standardization Initiatives for Deformation Imaging., Methods and Results: Fifty-five patients underwent prospective dataset acquisitions on the same day by the same operator using two commercially available cardiac ultrasound systems (GE Vivid E9 and Philips iE33). GLS and regional peak longitudinal strain were analyzed offline using corresponding vendor-specific software (EchoPAC BT13 and QLAB version 10.3). Absolute mean GLS measurements were similar between the two vendors (GE -17.5 ± 5.2% vs. Philips -18.9 ± 5.1%, P = 0.15). There was excellent intervendor correlation of GLS by the same observer [r = 0.94, P < 0.0001; bias -1.3%, 95% CI limits of agreement (LOA) -4.8 to 2.2%). Intervendor comparison for regional longitudinal strain by coronary artery territories distribution were: LAD: r = 0.85, P < 0.0001; bias 0.5%, LOA -5.3 to 6.4%; RCA: r = 0.88, P < 0.0001; bias -2.4%, LOA -8.6 to 3.7%; LCX: r = 0.76, P < 0.0001; bias -5.3%, LOA -10.6 to 2.0%. Intervendor comparison for regional longitudinal strain by LV levels were: basal: r = 0.86, P < 0.0001; bias -3.6%, LOA -9.9 to 2.0%; mid: r = 0.90, P < 0.0001; bias -2.6%, LOA -7.8 to 2.6%; apical: r = 0.74; P < 0.0001; bias -1.3%, LOA -9.4 to 6.8%., Conclusions: Intervendor agreement in GLS and regional strain measurements have significantly improved after the EACVI/ASE Task Force Strain Standardization Initiatives. However, significant wide LOA still exist, especially for regional strain measurements, which remains relevant when considering vendor-specific software for serial measurements., (Published on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology. All rights reserved. © The Author 2016. For permissions please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Objectives: Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is fundamental in managing patients supported with ventricular assist devices (VAD). However imaging can be difficult in these patients. Contrast improves image quality but they are hydrodynamically fragile agents. The aim was to assess contrast concentration following passage through a VAD utilising a mock circulation loop (MCL)., Methods: Heartware continuous flow (CF) VAD was incorporated into a MCL. Definity® contrast was infused into the MCL with imaging before and after CF-VAD. 5 mm 2 regions of interest were used to obtain signal intensity (decibels), as a surrogate of contrast concentration., Results: Four pump speeds revealed significant reduction in contrast signal intensity after CF-VAD compared to before CF-VAD (all p < 0.0001). Combined pre- and postpump data at all speeds showed a 22.2% absolute reduction in contrast signal intensity across the CF-VAD (14.8 ± 0.8 dB prepump versus 11.6 ± 1.4 dB postpump; p < 0.0001). Mean signal intensity reduction at each speed showed an inverse relationship between speed and relative reduction in signal intensity., Conclusion: Contrast microsphere transit through a CF-VAD within a MCL resulted in significant reduction in signal intensity, consistent with destruction within the pump. This was evident at all CF-VAD pump speeds but relative signal drop was inversely proportional to pump speed.

Background: Historically, aortic measurements were established using M-mode echocardiography, measuring from the leading edge to leading edge. Improvements in echocardiographic imaging now permit accurate assessment using the blood-tissue interface. Normal values have not been established using this technique., Methods: A prospective analysis of consecutive patients without pathology was conducted. Measurements of aortic dimensions were made using the blood-tissue interface and the leading edge methods at end-diastole, and at end-systole using the blood-tissue interface. Data collected included BSA, and aortic measurements (LVOT, root, ST junction, mid ascending aorta, aortic arch)., Results: The echocardiograms of 512 patients were evaluated. The mean age was 56 years, with 304 males (59%) and 208 females (41%). The average measurements (blood tissue interface) were: aortic root 31.2mm, sinotubular junction 25.9mm, mid ascending aorta 30.6 and aortic arch 23.4. On average, the leading edge method measurements were 1.5mm larger (p<0.0001), consistent with the added thickness of the anterior aortic wall. Ratios to BSA were also estimated. Tables have been created suggesting normal and abnormal values., Conclusions: Improvements in echocardiographic imaging permit the blood-tissue interface to be readily visualised. Reference ranges for the estimation of aortic sizes using this method are provided. More accurate and anatomical estimation of the aortic dimensions can now be achieved., (Copyright © 2015 Australian and New Zealand Society of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgeons (ANZSCTS) and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Echocardiography is the commonest form of non-invasive cardiac imaging but due to its methodology, it is operator dependent. Numerous advances in technology have resulted in the development of interactive programs and simulators to teach trainees the skills to perform particular procedures, including transthoracic and transoesophageal echocardiography., Methods: Forty trainee sonographers assessed a computerised mannequin echocardiographic simulator and were taught how to obtain an apical two-chamber (A2C) view and image the superior vena cava (SVC). Forty-two attendees at a TOE simulator workshop assessed its utility and commented on perceived future use, using defined criteria., Results: One hundred percent and 88% of sonographers found the simulator useful in obtaining the SVC or A2C view respectively. All users found it easy to use and the majority found it helped with image acquisition and interpretation. Attendees of the TOE training day assessed the simulator with 100% finding it easy to use, as well as the augmented reality graphics benefiting image acquisition. Ninety percent felt that it was realistic., Conclusions: This study revealed that both trainee sonographers and TOE proceduralists found the simulation process was realistic, helped in image acquisition and improved assessment of spatial relationships. Echocardiographic simulators may play an important role in the future training of echocardiographic skills., (Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Aim: To determine if a defined set of echocardiographic parameters at entry and exit of a longitudinal study over 5 years showed changes with aging., Methods: The cohort consisted of 484 randomly recruited women aged 40-80. They were examined by two echocardiography cardiologists, independent of the medical information for these women., Results: Across the age decades (40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79 years), body weight and body surface area (BSA) did not vary, and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was stable; systolic blood pressure (SBP) progressively increased. There was gradual decline in left ventricular (LV) diastolic function, increase in LV muscle mass, and decrease in LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV). The serial decrease in rate of change over 5 years in ejection fraction (ET) was small but significant across the four age decades., Conclusions: As expected, there were age-related changes in cardiac structure and function over time in women who showed no apparent cardiovascular disease (CVD) at entry to the study. The direction of these serial changes was toward the development of LV stiffness and likelihood of subsequent heart failure. The clinical significance of the decrease in rate of change in EF remains unclear.

Background: The detection of atrial septal defects (ASDs) and other shunts is sometimes difficult on transthoracic echocardiography. In addition, the quantitative assessment of right-heart volume loading as an indicator of significant shunting can be difficult, with subjective estimation commonly used. Thus, the initial aim of this study was to test the accuracy of a simple, noninvasive index using atrial area dimensions to detect the presence of an ASD. Subsequently, the index was used to assess the degree of normalization and remodeling of atrial size following percutaneous ASD device closure., Methods: The relative atrial index (RAI) was derived from standard apical 4-chamber views as right atrial area divided by left atrial area. RAI was calculated in patients with previously diagnosed secundum atrial defects (n=219) with no concomitant lesions and then compared with those calculated in age-matched controls (n=219). 101 of the 219 patients with secundum atrial defects underwent percutaneous device closure. Measurements were obtained before and 1 day after percutaneous closure as well as in the early (mean, 124 days) and late (mean, 390 days) stages of follow-up., Results: The mean RAI in patients with ASDs (1.23+/-0.23) was significantly higher than that in the age-matched normal control group (0.78+/-0.1) (P<.0001). The mean RAI in patients with ASD was also significantly higher than that in the general population (0.81+/-0.15) (P<.0001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis suggested that a nominal RAI cutoff value of >0.92 predicted patients with ASDs versus matched controls with 99.1% sensitivity and 90.5% specificity. After percutaneous closure, significant atrial remodeling occurred immediately, with a reduction in the mean RAI at day 1 to 0.93+/-0.16 (P<.0001) and complete normalization at early follow-up to 0.81+/-0.12., Conclusion: The RAI, a novel and simple transthoracic parameter, reliably identifies patients with possible atrial shunting. The resolution of right atrial enlargement occurs remarkably early after percutaneous ASD closure, as demonstrated by this novel parameter., (Crown Copyright (c) 2010. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a common and debilitating medical condition with high mortality. PH research has traditionally focused on pulmonary arterial hypertension and its management in expert PH centres. Other forms of PH such as PH associated with cardiac or respiratory disease are more common, less well‐understood and associated with higher mortality. Epidemiology of PH in disadvantaged, remote and rural regions, remains largely undocumented. In this review, we discuss the unique challenges in identifying PH in rural and disadvantaged populations using the Top End region of the Northern Territory of Australia as an example. We propose a simple diagnostic approach, ideally suited to regions where resource allocation is scarce, using clinical skills, echocardiography, and an escalation algorithm. The brief history, epidemiology and current literature on PH are summarised to inform the busy clinicians. We highlight two case examples from the Top End to illustrate the challenges and potential solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study sought to determine the contractile reserve (CR) response to exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) quantified by the novel parameter, non‐invasive myocardial work (MW), in subjects with angiographically proven coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods: CR was measured by the relative change in ejection fraction (EF), global longitudinal strain (GLS) and MW indices from rest to peak exercise in 304 patients referred for clinically indicated ESE. Positive ESE patients proceeded to coronary angiography and further risk stratified based on either percutaneous or surgical intervention. Results: CRGLS and global work index (CRGWI) significantly decreased with exercise induced ischemia and angiographically proven significant CAD (CRGLS −1.6±3.5%; CRGWI −8.6±511 mm Hg% decrement, p < 0.001) compared to non‐ischemic patients (CRGLS 1.4±2.2%; CRGWI 398±404 mm Hg% improvement). Global constructive work (CRGCW) was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in non‐ischemic (818±457 mm Hg%) and blunted in ischemic patients (208±550 mm Hg%). CRGCW (AUC.81; 95%CI:.75–.86) demonstrated the most association for inducible ischemia followed by CRGLS (AUC.75; 95%CI:.69–.80), CRGWI (AUC.73, 95%CI:.67–.79) and CREF (AUC.71; 95%CI:.65–.77, p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis showed patients requiring surgical revascularization demonstrated a significantly lower CRGWE (−11.5±7.6%, p < 0.05) as a result of reduced CRGCW (281±573 mm Hg%, p < 0.05) and increased global wasted work (CRGWW, 289±151 mm Hg%, p = 0.09). Conclusion: Multivessel disease requiring surgical revascularization have the greatest reduction in CR. MW may potentially improve detection of ischemia and further risk stratification during ESE to maximize the benefits of revascularization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left atrial analysis is employed in diastolic assessment with left atrial volume index (LAVI) incorporated in the 2016 ASE/EACVI diastology guideline algorithm. LAVI has sub‐optimal correlation with invasive left ventricular filling pressure (LVFP) and incorporation of left atrial reservoir strain (LASr) may improve diastolic assessment. Methods: A cross‐sectional prospective study of 139 patients was undertaken with all patients undergoing transthoracic echocardiography immediately prior to cardiac catheterization with invasive evaluation of LVFP. LASr by speckle tracking echocardiography and conventional echocardiographic parameters were assessed in relation to invasive LVFP. Modification of the 2016 guideline algorithm was performed with incorporation of LASr in place of LAVI (LASr ≤23% indicating elevated LVFP). Accuracy of the modified and conventional algorithm were assessed for predicting invasive LVFP. Results: The mean age was 63±12 years with 27% female. LASr demonstrated superior correlation and receiver operator characteristic for predicting LVFP than LAVI (LASr: r ‐.46 (p < 0.01), AUC:.82 vs LAVI: r.19 (p 0.02), AUC:.66). LASr of ≤23% was the optimal cut‐off for discriminating elevated LVFP (sensitivity 80%, specificity 77%). Modification of the 2016 algorithm with incorporation of LASr in place of LAVI reclassified 12% of the patient cohort and improved concordance of echocardiographic and invasive LVFP assessment (modified algorithm κ.47 vs 2016 algorithm κ:.33). No patients were incorrectly reclassified by modified algorithm assessment. Conclusions: LASr better predicts invasive LVFP than LAVI. Modification of the 2016 guideline algorithm with incorporation of LASr in place of LAVI improves accuracy of echocardiographic assessment of LVFP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims  To examine the characteristics/prognostic impact of diastolic dysfunction (DD) according to 2016 American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) and European Society of Cardiovascular Imaging (ESCVI) guidelines, and individual parameters of DD. Methods and results  Data were derived from a large multicentre mortality-linked echocardiographic registry comprising 436 360 adults with ≥ 1 diastolic function measurement linked to 100 597 deaths during 2.2 million person-years follow-up. ASE/European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging (EACVI) algorithms could be applied in 392 009 (89.8%) cases; comprising 11.4% of cases with 'reduced' left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF < 50%) and 88.6% with 'preserved' LVEF (≥50%). Diastolic function was indeterminate in 21.5% and 62.2% of 'preserved' and 'reduced' LVEF cases, respectively. Among preserved LVEF cases, the risk of adjusted 5-year cardiovascular-related mortality was elevated in both DD [odds ratio (OR) 1.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.22–1.42; P  < 0.001] and indeterminate status cases (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.04–1.18; P  < 0.001) vs. no DD. Among impaired LVEF cases, the equivalent risk of cardiovascular-related mortality was 1.51 (95% CI 1.15–1.98, P  < 0.001) for increased filling pressure vs. 1.25 (95% CI 0.96–1.64, P  = 0.06) for indeterminate status. Mitral E velocity, septal e ' velocity, E : e ' ratio, and LAVi all correlated with mortality. On adjusted basis, pivot-points of increased risk for cardiovascular-related mortality occurred at 90 cm/s for E wave velocity, 9 cm/s for septal e ' velocity, an E :e' ratio of 9, and an LAVi of 32 mL/m2. Conclusion  ASE/EACVI-classified DD is correlated with increased mortality. However, many cases remain 'indeterminate'. Importantly, when analysed individually, mitral E velocity, septal e ' velocity, E : e ' ratio, and LAVi revealed clear pivot-points of increased risk of cardiovascular-related mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: We investigated long‐term mortality associated with changes in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in a large, real‐world patient cohort. Methods and results: A total of 117 275 adults (63 ± 16 years, 46% women) had LVEF quantified by the same method ≥6 months apart. This included 17 343 cases (66 ± 15 years, 48% women) being initially investigated for heart failure (HF). During 3.3 [interquartile range (IQR) 1.7–6.0] years from first to last echocardiogram, median change in LVEF was −1 (IQR −8 to +5) units from a baseline of 62% (IQR 54–69%). During subsequent 7.6 (IQR 4.3–10.1) years of follow‐up, 11 397 (9.7%) and 34 101 (29.1%) cases died from cardiovascular disease and all causes, respectively. Actual 5‐year, all‐cause mortality increased from 12% to 29% among those with the smallest to the largest decrease in LVEF (from <5 units to >30 units); the adjusted risk of cardiovascular‐related mortality increased two‐ to eightfold beyond a >10‐unit decline in LVEF (vs. minimal change; P < 0.001 for all comparisons). Among those initially investigated for HF (32% with initial LVEF <50%), the adjusted hazard ratio for cardiovascular‐related mortality ranged from 0.35 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.28–0.49] to 4.21 (95% CI 3.30–5.22) for a >30‐unit increase to >30‐unit decline in LVEF (vs. minimal change; P < 0.001 for both comparisons). A distinctive, bi‐directional plateau of improved vs. worsening mortality was evident around a final LVEF of 50% to 55%. Conclusions: These data, derived from a large, heterogeneous cohort of adults being followed up with echocardiography, suggest that modest LVEF changes (particularly around an LVEF of 50–55%) may be of clinical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Stress echocardiography (SE) is an established technique for assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD) which is difficult to perform and interpret. Left ventricular stroke volume (SV) is readily estimated with Doppler echocardiography. It can be affected by myocardial ischemia, with possible adjunctive value during SE. Methods: Patients underwent Bruce protocol SE with SV estimated before and after maximal treadmill exertion post routine regional wall analysis. Incremental change in SV (ΔSV) with exercise was measured. Results: A derivation cohort (n = 273) was established to test the hypothesis. An optimal cutoff for detection on inducible ischemia was ΔSV ≤ +10 mL. The validation cohort of consecutive patients (n = 1093, 376 [34%] female; age 59 ± 12 years) were followed clinically after SE for 20 460 patient‐months. There were 1000 patients with nonischemic SE, and 93 patients with studies suggestive of myocardial ischemia. Secondary analysis yielded 831 patients with a normal exercise response (ΔSV > +10 mL) and 192 with an abnormal ΔSV ≤ +10 mL. Time to first combined adverse cardiac event (composite of angina, acute coronary syndrome, cardiac revascularization, worsening New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, a reduction in EF, and cardiovascular death) was analyzed and adjusted using Cox proportional hazards regression. The hazard ratio for an adverse event with an abnormal ΔSV response (≤10 mL) was 10.3 (95% confidence intervals 5.6‐19.1, P <.0001). Conclusions: Stroke volume assessment during SE is feasible and readily performed. It is simple, practical, and has incremental diagnostic and prognostic value when added to exercise regional wall‐motion analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Non-invasive left ventricular (LV) pressure–strain loop (PSL) provides a novel method of quantifying myocardial work (MW) with potential advantages over conventional global longitudinal strain (GLS) by incorporating measurements of myocardial deformation and LV pressure. We investigated different patterns of LV PSL and global MW index (GWI) in patients with hypertension (HTN) and dilated cardiomyopathy (CMP). Methods and results Seventy-four patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography and strain analysis before coronary angiography. Patients were divided into three groups: control, HTN, and CMP. GWI was calculated as the area of the LV PSL as a product of strain × systolic blood pressure. MW efficiency (GWE) is derived from the percentage ratio of constructive work (GCW) to sum of constructive work (GCW) and wasted work (GWW). Influences of HTN and LV function on its relationship with MW were evaluated. GLS and LV ejection fraction were preserved in the HTN group with no difference from controls. GWI was significantly higher in moderate to severe HTN patients (P  = 0.004) as a compensatory mechanism to preserve LV contractility and function against an increase in afterload. GWE was preserved in HTN patients due to the proportional increase in GCW and GWW. GLS, GWI, and GWE were significantly reduced in CMP (P  < 0.05), with a trend in rightward shift and reduction in the LV PSL. Conclusion GWI is a potential new technique that allows better understanding of the relationship between LV remodelling and increased wall stress under different loading conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is a fundamental investigation for the noninvasive assessment of pulmonary hemodynamics and right heart function. The aim of this study was to assess the correlation and agreement of Doppler calculation of right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) using "chin" and "beard" measurements of tricuspid regurgitant velocity (TRVmax), with invasive pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and PVR. Methods: One hundred patients undergoing right heart catheterisation (RHC) and near simultaneous transthoracic echocardiography were studied. TRVmax was recorded for "chin" measurement (distinct peak TRVmax signal) and where available (63 patients), "beard" measurement (higher indistinct peak TRVmax signal). Results: Measurable TRV signal was obtained in 96 patients. Mean RVSPchin 54.7 ± 22.7 mm Hg and RVSPbeard 68.6 = 23 ± 26.3 mm Hg (P < .001). There was strong correlation between both RVSPchin and RVSPbeard with invasive PASP (Pearson's r = .9, R2 = 0.82, P < .001 -r = .88, R = .78, P < .001, respectively.). Bland-Altman analysis for RVSPchin and RVSPbeard showed a mean bias of -0.5 mm Hg (95% limits of agreement -21.4 to 20.5 mm Hg) and -10.7 (95% LOA -35.5 to 14.2 mm Hg), respectively. Receiver operator characteristics of TRVmax "chin" and "beard" for diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension was assessed with optimal cut-offs being 2.8 m/s (sensitivity 93%, specificity 87%) and 3.2 m/s (sensitivity 91%, specificity 82%), respectively. There was similar correlation between PVRchin and PVRbeard (r = .87, R2 = 0.75, P < .001 and r = .86, R2 = 0.74, P < .001, respectively). At higher PVR, there was overestimation of calculated PVR using PVRbeard. Conclusion: The accuracy of noninvasive measurement of right heart pressures is increased using the "chin" in estimation of both RVSP and PVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims We aimed to assess intervendor agreement of global (GLS) and regional longitudinal strain by vendor-specific software after EACVI/ASE Industry Task Force Standardization Initiatives for Deformation Imaging. Methods and results Fifty-five patients underwent prospective dataset acquisitions on the same day by the same operator using two commercially available cardiac ultrasound systems (GE Vivid E9 and Philips iE33). GLS and regional peak longitudinal strain were analyzed offline using corresponding vendor-specific software (EchoPAC BT13 and QLAB version 10.3). Absolute mean GLS measurements were similar between the two vendors (GE -17.5 ± 5.2% vs. Philips -18.9 ± 5.1%, P = 0.15). There was excellent intervendor correlation of GLS by the same observer [r = 0.94, P < 0.0001; bias -1.3%, 95% CI limits of agreement (LOA) -4.8 to 2.2%). Intervendor comparison for regional longitudinal strain by coronary artery territories distribution were: LAD: r = 0.85, P < 0.0001; bias 0.5%, LOA -5.3 to 6.4%; RCA: r = 0.88, P < 0.0001; bias -2.4%, LOA -8.6 to 3.7%; LCX: r = 0.76, P < 0.0001; bias -5.3%, LOA -10.6 to 2.0%. Intervendor comparison for regional longitudinal strain by LV levels were: basal: r = 0.86, P < 0.0001; bias -3.6%, LOA -9.9 to 2.0%; mid: r = 0.90, P < 0.0001; bias -2.6%, LOA -7.8 to 2.6%; apical: r = 0.74; P < 0.0001; bias -1.3%, LOA -9.4 to 6.8%. Conclusions Intervendor agreement in GLS and regional strain measurements have significantly improved after the EACVI/ASE Task Force Strain Standardization Initiatives. However, significant wide LOA still exist, especially for regional strain measurements, which remains relevant when considering vendor-specific software for serial measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Right heart catheterisation is the gold-standard for differentiating pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension (high mean pulmonary artery pressure, normal pulmonary wedge pressure) from post-capillary physiology (elevated pulmonary wedge pressure). The new non-invasive parameter, ePLAR (echocardiographic Pulmonary to Left Atrial Ratio) is calculated from the maximum tricuspid regurgitation continuous wave Doppler velocity (m/s) divided by the transmitral E-wave:septal mitral annular Doppler Tissue Imaging e′-wave ratio (TRV max /E:e′). Methods Pulmonary hypertension patients (mean pulmonary artery pressure > 25 mm Hg, n = 133, 66 male, average 65.0 ± 16.8 years) were classified by right heart catheterisation as pre-capillary or post-capillary [subdivided into isolated post-capillary (diastolic pulmonary gradient < 7 mm Hg) or combined pre- and post-capillary cases]. The ePLAR values of these groups were compared to each other and to a population sample of 16,356 population reference echocardiograms. Results ePLAR values for the normal reference population of 16,356 echocardiograms (age 56 ± 16.6 years) were 0.30 ± 0.09 m/s. Pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension patients (n = 35, 26 male, PAP sys 63.9 ± 16.6 mm Hg, PAP diast 24.1 ± 7.3 mm Hg, PAP mean 37.9 ± 9.4 mm Hg, PCWP 10.6 ± 2.7 mm Hg) had significantly higher ePLAR values than post-capillary cases (n = 98, 40 male, PAP sys 59.9 ± 17.6 mm Hg, PAP diast 25.0 ± 7.4 mm Hg, PAP mean 38.1 ± 9.8 mm Hg, PCWP 23.5 ± 6.4 mm Hg) − ePLAR 0.44 ± 0.22 m/s vs 0.20 ± 0.11 m/s (p < 0.001). ePLAR values were significantly lower in isolated post-capillary pulmonary hypertension than in combined pre- and post-capillary cases (0.18 ± 0.08 m/s vs 0.28 ± 0.18 m/s, p < 0.001). Conclusions ePLAR is a simple echocardiographic parameter which can accurately differentiate the smaller subset of patients with pre-capillary pulmonary hypertension from the more common post-capillary aetiology. The use of this easily obtained echocardiographic parameter has the potential to enhance non-invasive triage of patients for specific pulmonary vasodilator therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The “sparkled” echocardiographic appearance of amyloid has become less visually obvious in the era of harmonic imaging. Significantly dilated atria in the setting of a normal sized ventricle may be another easy visual marker for cardiac amyloidosis. Methods: A retrospective analysis of echocardiograms of patients with biopsy-proven cardiac amyloid compared with patients with hypertension was conducted. There were 36 patients in each group, and they were matched for left ventricular wall thickness, as well as age and sex. Results: Patients with cardiac amyloid had significantly larger atria than the group with hypertension (left atrial areas 29cm2 versus 19cm2, p <0.001, AUC 0.84, volumes 100cm3 versus 55cm3, p <0.001, AUC 0.915). A volume of 69cm3 produced a specificity and sensitivity of 85% for amyloidosis. Conclusions: Atrial dilatation can be used as a visual marker for cardiac amyloidosis. This may be a simple visual method to differentiate this infiltrative cardiomyopathy from left ventricular hypertrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acute pulmonary embolism (PE) is characterized hemodynamically by abrupt obstruction in trans-pulmonary blood flow. The echocardiographic Pulmonary to Left Atrial ratio (ePLAR, tricuspid regurgitation Vmax/mitral E/e') has been validated as a non-invasive surrogate for trans-pulmonary gradient (TPG) that accurately differentiates pre-capillary from post-capillary chronic pulmonary hypertension. This study assessed ePLAR as an incremental echocardiographic assessment tool compared with traditional measures of right ventricular pressure and function. Methods: In total, 110 (57.4 ± 17.6 years) patients with confirmed sub-massive pulmonary emboli with contemporaneous echocardiograms (0.3 ± 0.9 days) were compared with 110 age-matched controls (AMC). Results: Tricuspid velocities were higher than AMC (2.6 ± 0.6 m/s vs. 2.4 ± 0.3 m/s, p < 0.05), although still consistent with "normal" right ventricular systolic pressures (34.2 ± 13.5 mmHg vs. 25 ± 5.3 mmHg, p < 0.05) with lower mitral E/e' values (8.2 ± 3.8 vs. 10.8 ± 5.1, p < 0.05). ePLAR values were higher than AMC (0.36 ± 0.14 m/s vs. 0.26 ± 0.10, p < 0.05) suggesting significantly elevated TPG. Detection of abnormal echocardiographic findings increased from 29% (TRVmax ≥ 2.9 m/s) and 32% (reduced tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion) to 70% with ePLAR ≥ 0.3 m/s. Conclusions: Raised ePLAR values in acute sub-massive pulmonary embolism suggest elevated trans-pulmonary gradients even in the absence of acutely increased pulmonary artery pressures. ePLAR dramatically increases the sensitivity of echocardiography for detection of hemodynamic perturbations in sub-massive pulmonary embolism patients, which may offer clinical utility in diagnosis and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: AL amyloidosis and multiple myeloma result in extracellular deposition of insoluble fibrillar protein in tissues and organs. Untreated median survival has been documented at 12 months. Cardiac infiltration decreases survival to five months. Chemotherapy and bone marrow transplantation (BMT) have been shown to improve survival when haematological remission is documented. This study aimed to assess if remission could result in cardiac structural improvement. Methods: 269 patients were treated with BMT for amyloidosis from 1997 to 2010. Cardiac amyloidosis was identified in 30 patients by echocardiographic criteria. Echocardiography was performed before and after BMT. Results: Thirteen of 30 patients with cardiac amyloidosis died during follow-up. No change in cardiac structure was seen in 11 patients. Average survival was 49 months from BMT for non-responders. Fifteen patients had cardiac normalisation (responders). The average time to normalisation was 25 months. Only two responders died. Average survival for responders was 71 months (p <0.0001 compared with non-responders). Normalisation of cardiac structure was highly predictive of survival (Fisher's exact test p =0.0025, relative risk 0.18). Conclusions: Cardiac amyloidosis patients with haematological remission after chemotherapy and BMT may subsequently normalise cardiac structure and function. Normalisation is highly predictive of survival. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is common, under diagnosed and associated with a high mortality. There are significant delays in the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension leading to increased morbidity and delays in the initiation of treatment. Once PH is diagnosed, establishing the degree of pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) enables clinicians to broadly divide the underlying pathology into pre-capillary or post-capillary causes, a crucial step in tailoring management. Pulmonary hypertension is most commonly due to left heart disease (PH-LHD) and echocardiography (echo) is the most widely accessible investigation in its diagnosis. Regardless of the underlying pathophysiology of LHD, the sequelae lead to pressure overload on the left heart and a reactive increase in pulmonary pressures. In this review article, we will discuss the prevalence of PH, examine the pathophysiology of PH-LHD, establish how echo can be used to identify patients with PH-LHD and discuss surrogate echo markers of PVR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Symptomatic mitral regurgitation (MR) is associated with high morbidity and mortality that can be ameliorated by surgical valve repair or replacement. Despite this, many patients with MR do not undergo surgery. Transcatheter mitral valve replacement (TMVR) may be an option for selected patients with severe MR.Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effectiveness and safety of TMVR in a cohort of patients with native valve MR who were at high risk for cardiac surgery.Methods: Patients underwent transcatheter, transapical delivery of a self-expanding mitral valve prosthesis and were examined in a prospective registry for short-term and 30-day outcomes.Results: Thirty patients (age 75.6 ± 9.2 years; 25 men) with grade 3 or 4 MR underwent TMVR. The MR etiology was secondary (n = 23), primary (n = 3), or mixed pathology (n = 4). The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality was 7.3 ± 5.7%. Successful device implantation was achieved in 28 patients (93.3%). There were no acute deaths, strokes, or myocardial infarctions. One patient died 13 days after TMVR from hospital-acquired pneumonia. Prosthetic leaflet thrombosis was detected in 1 patient at follow-up and resolved after increased oral anticoagulation with warfarin. At 30 days, transthoracic echocardiography showed mild (1+) central MR in 1 patient, and no residual MR in the remaining 26 patients with valves in situ. The left ventricular end-diastolic volume index decreased (90.1 ± 28.2 ml/m2 at baseline vs. 72.1 ± 19.3 ml/m2 at follow-up; p = 0.0012), as did the left ventricular end-systolic volume index (48.4 ± 19.7 ml/m2 vs. 43.1 ± 16.2 ml/m2; p = 0.18). Seventy-five percent of the patients reported mild or no symptoms at follow-up (New York Heart Association functional class I or II). Successful device implantation free of cardiovascular mortality, stroke, and device malfunction at 30 days was 86.6%.Conclusions: TMVR is an effective and safe therapy for selected patients with symptomatic native MR. Further evaluation of TMVR using prostheses specifically designed for the mitral valve is warranted. This intervention may help address an unmet need in patients at high risk for surgery. (Early Feasibility Study of the Tendyne Mitral Valve System [Global Feasibility Study]; NCT02321514). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]