Search

Background and purpose Approximately 20–25% of the patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) develop atrial fibrillation (AF) during the clinical course of the disease, a percentage significantly larger than that of the general population. The purpose of the present study was to report on the procedural results of patients with AF and either primary or secondary left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Methods and subjects Twenty-two consecutive HCM patients (55% male, mean age 57 ± 8 years) with symptomatic AF, having undergone AF ablation procedures between September 2009 and July 2012 were compared with respect to procedural outcome and follow-up characteristics with 22 matched controls with secondary cardiac hypertrophy (64% male, 63 ± 10 years) from our prospective AF catheter ablation registry. Results and conclusion Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) was successful in restoring long-term sinus rhythm in patients with LVH due to HCM and due to secondary etiology. However, patients with HCM needed more RFCA procedures and frequently additional antiarrhythmic drug therapy in order to maintain sinus rhythm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: A discordant left ventricular (LV) lead position can be responsible for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) nonresponse. In this study, tailored optimization of the individual LV wall motion was evaluated for the outcome in these patients. Methods and results: Two hundred and forty-six CRT outpatients were screened for non-response due to a discordant LV lead. In 17 patients, three-dimensional data of fluoroscopic rotation scan and echocardiography were integrated to analyse the individual LV wall motion with respect to the LV lead position. Optimization was guided by the systolic dyssynchrony index (SDI) and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) during different interventricular (VV)-delay programming. If re-programming failed, implantation of a second LV lead was performed. A discordant or partly concordant LV lead position was found in nearly all patients (16/17, 94%), which contributed to an unchanged baseline amount of LV dyssynchrony with either CRT on or off (SD111.3 vs. 11.0%; P = 0.744). In the majority of patients, VV-delay re-programming achieved better resynchronization, 4/17 patients needed implantation of a second LV lead. After 3 months, significant improvement of NYHA functional class (1 class; P = 0.004), peak oxygen consumption (10 vs. 13 mL/min/kg; P = 0.008), LVEF (27 vs. 39%; P = 0.003), and SDI (11.0 vs. 5.8; P = 0.02) was observed. Clinical and echocardiographic responses were found in 77 and 59%, respectively, with even good results on long-term follow-up. Conclusion: Tailored optimization of the individual LV wall motion can lead to significant clinical and echocardiographic improvements in previous CRT non-responders with a discordant LV lead position. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electromagnetic Navigation for CRT Implantation Introduction Implantation of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) devices can be challenging, time consuming, and fluoroscopy intense. To facilitate placement of left ventricular (LV) leads, a novel electromagnetic navigation system (MediGuide™, St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN, USA) has been developed, displaying real-time 3-D location of sensor-embedded delivery tools superimposed on prerecorded X-ray cine-loops of coronary sinus venograms. We report our experience and advanced progress in the use of this new electromagnetic tracking system to guide LV lead implantation. Methods and Results Between January 2012 and December 2013, 71 consecutive patients (69 ± 9 years, 76% male) were implanted with a CRT device using the new electromagnetic tracking system. Demographics, procedural data, and periprocedural adverse events were gathered. The impact of the operator's experience, optimized workflow, and improved software technology on procedural data were analyzed. LV lead implantation was successfully achieved in all patients without severe adverse events. Total procedure time measured 87 ± 37 minutes and the median total fluoroscopy time (skin-to-skin) was 4.9 (2.5-7.8) minutes with a median dose-area-product of 476 (260-1056) cGy*cm2. An additional comparison with conventional CRT device implantations showed a significant reduction in fluoroscopy time from 8.0 (5.8; 11.5) to 4.5 (2.8; 7.3) minutes (P = 0.016) and radiation dose from 603 (330; 969) to 338 (176; 680) cGy*cm2, respectively (P = 0.044 ). Conclusion Use of the new navigation system enables safe and successful LV lead placement with improved orientation and significantly reduced radiation exposure during CRT implantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Radiofrequency catheter ablation is currently considered as the therapeutic option of choice in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) and recurrent ventricular tachycardia (VT). Methods This study intended to assess the long-term outcome of catheter ablation in patients with ARVC and electrical storm. The specific objective was to assess the relationship between precordial QRS amplitude ratio and outcome of catheter ablation in these patients. Results Twenty-eight patients (19 men, age 52.3 ± 14.2 years) underwent 48 catheter ablation procedures (range 1–6, six epicardial). During a mean follow-up of 18.7 ± 15.1 months, 13 patients (46.5%) experienced VT recurrence. Age > 50 years and ∑ QRS mv V1–V3/∑ QRS mv V1–V6 ≤ 0.48 but not right ventricular size and acute ablation outcome were associated with VT recurrence during the follow up. Conclusion Age > 50 years and ∑ QRS mv V1–V3/∑ QRS mv V1–V6 ≤ 0.48 predict recurrence of VT after successful radiofrequency catheter ablation of VT in patients with ARVC and electrical storm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Thromboembolic complications remain one of the most severe adverse events associated with catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF), but data on such events are limited. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence, characteristics, and risk factors of thromboembolic complications after AF ablation. Methods Cerebral thromboembolic complications occurring within 1 month of 3360 consecutive AF radiofrequency catheter ablations were assessed. Stroke was defined as a neurologic deficit lasting more than 24 hours or with imaging study showing new infarction. Transient ischemic attack (TIA) was defined as a deficit lasting less than 24 hours and without documented infarction. Results There were 17 peri-interventional cerebral thromboembolic events (0.5%). Nine cases (53%) were diagnosed as strokes and 8 (47%) as TIAs. Sixty percent of the events occurred within 48 hours after the ablation; the rest occurred within 1 week. In univariate analysis, peri-interventional thromboembolism was associated with peripheral vascular disease ( P = .010), impaired left ventricular ejection fraction ( P = .040), periprocedural bridging with heparin ( P = .007), and previous stroke ( P = .026). Multivariable analysis demonstrated that peripheral vascular disease (odds ratio [OR] 8.81, confidence interval [CI] 1.61–48.31, P = .012) and previous stroke (OR 6.13, CI 1.18–31.91, P = .031) were independent predictors. In a different model, the CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score was associated with thromboembolism (OR 1.35, CI 1.00–1.80, P = .049). Conclusion Cerebral thromboembolic complications after AF radiofrequency catheter ablation are rare. They mostly occur within 48 hours after the procedure and remain without lasting neurologic deficits in the majority of cases. Such complications are associated with peripheral vascular disease, previous stroke, and the CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surgical Ablation Related Reentrant Tachycardia Background Intraoperative atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation during cardiac surgery is a well-established treatment. However, tachycardia mechanisms, ablation strategies, and long-term follow-up of atrial arrhythmias (AA) following intraoperative AF ablation (AFA) have not been previously studied in a large cohort of patients. Objective Eighty-two patients (48 male, median age of 65 years) with symptomatic recurrence of AA following intraoperative AFA underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation. Methods Regular atrial tachycardias (AT) were mapped using 3-dimensional (3D) color-coded entrainment/activation mapping and eliminated by linear ablation. Pulmonary vein (PV)-isolation (PVI) was achieved in patients with left atrium-PV (LAPV) conduction after AT elimination. Results In 85 (83%) out of a total of 103 regular ATs, the entire reentrant circuits were localized perimitrally (n = 27), around PVs (left PV [LPV] or right PV [RPV]; n = 9), around left atrial appendage (LAA; n = 1), on left-sided atrial septum (n = 8), on atrioventricular nodal area (n = 1), on the posterior wall of LA (n = 1), along roof-septum-inferoposterior wall (n = 8), at coronary sinus ostium (n = 2), upper loop in RA (n = 1), and as cavotricuspid isthmus-dependent reentrant ATs (n = 27). Sixty-five (79%) patients received PVI. Noninducibility of any AT was reached at the end of all procedures. During a median follow-up time of 18 months, 69 patients (87%) were free of AA. Conclusion Reentrant AT appears in the majority of patients with recurrence of AA following intraoperative AFA. Detailed 3D color-coded entrainment mapping was successfully obtained in the majority of patients suffering from reentrant AT after intraoperative AFA, facilitated the accurate identification of the entire reentrant circuit and selection of optimal ablation lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Herzschrittmachertherapie und Elektrophysiologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction: Ventriculoatrial (VA) conduction and related pacemaker-mediated tachyarrhythmias (PMT) have not been systematically investigated in a large cohort of patients implanted for symptomatic atrioventricular (AV) block. Methods and results: Two hundred fifty consecutive patients (71±14years, 63% male) implanted for symptomatic second- or third-degree AV block were screened for retrograde VA conduction and related PMTs including endless loop tachycardia (ELT) and repetitive nonreentrant VA synchrony (RNRVAS). After a mean post-implantation period of 38±12months, AV block was persistent in 137 (55%) and variable in 113 (45%) patients. Retrograde 1:1 conduction was present in 76 patients (30%) with a mean VA conduction time of 258±65ms. The incidence of VA conduction varied considerably according to the presence and type of anterograde conduction block. Retrograde conduction was present in 24 of 137 patients (18%) with persistent AV block. Fifteen of the 76 patients (20%) with VA conduction had ≥1 documented PMT. The recorded arrhythmias were ELT in 11 and RNRVAS in 4 patients. VA conduction time was significantly longer in patients with than without PMT (297±64 vs. 249±62ms, resp., P <0.01). None of the patients without VA conduction had documented PMTs. Conclusions: Retrograde VA conduction and related PMTs are not uncommon in patients implanted for symptomatic AV block. Testing for retrograde conduction should therefore be performed in all patients with AV block in order to optimize device programming and prevent PMTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The MediGuide technology (MGT) represents a novel sensor-based electromagnetic 4-dimensional (4D) navigation system allowing real-time catheter tracking in the environment of prerecorded X-ray loops. Objective: To report on our clinical experience in atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation with recently available MGT-enabled ablation catheters. Methods: The MGT was used in addition to a conventional 3D mapping system in 80 patients with AF (age 61 ± 10 years; 47 men; 40 with persistent AF), who underwent circumferential pulmonary vein isolation and voltage mapping with and without substrate modification. Short native right anterior oblique/left anterior oblique loops were used as background movies for the nonfluoroscopic placement of sensor-equipped diagnostic catheters into the coronary sinus and the right ventricle. After single transseptal puncture, selective angiograms of the pulmonary veins were used as background movies for near nonfluoroscopic left atrial reconstruction. Computed tomography registration as well as mapping/ablation was performed by using the new open-irrigated MGT-enabled ablation catheter. Results: MGT application was not associated with a change in established workflow. Large parts of the procedure (mean entire duration 167 ± 47 minutes) could be done without additional fluoroscopy, whereas median residual fluoroscopy duration of 4.6 (interquartile range: 2.9, 7.1) minutes was mainly used for the acquisition of background loops, transseptal puncture, occasional verification of transseptal sheath position, and manipulation of the circular mapping catheter. Three (4%) minor complications occurred. Conclusions: The MGT integrates easily into the workflow of standard AF ablation and allows for high-quality nonfluoroscopic 4D catheter tracking. This results in low radiation exposure for patients and staff without complicating the workflow of the procedure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Exercise-related palpitations, vertigo, and syncope may be caused by benign etiologies but can also herald life-threatening arrhythmias. The precise diagnosis of these findings is therefore essential and potentially life saving but often is a challenge for sports physicians and cardiologists. Leadless, ambulatory HR monitors with chest strap transmitters have been designed to steer exercise intensity in athletes with a baseline sinus rhythm. However, they also can capture arrhythmias. Presented here are three cases of varying arrhythmias: atrial fibrillation, atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia, and ectopic atrial tachycardia that demonstrate the utility of HR monitors designed for athletic purposes in facilitating the diagnosis of arrhythmias and guiding appropriate treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: We retrospectively assessed the incidence of hemorrhagic complications associated with pacemaker implantation in patients receiving one or more antiplatelet agents. Design and setting: Retrospective multicenter case-control study. Data were collected from three cardiac units in Germany from 2006 to 2010. Methods: A total of 495 pacemaker patients were enrolled. 99 patients received dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin and clopidogrel), 198 were given only aspirin and 198 had no antiplatelet therapy (control). Patients were matched for age and sex. Implant-related bleeding complications were defined as major bleeding, if surgical pocket exploration or blood transfusion were needed. Minor bleeding complications were defined as one or more of the following conditions: fall of hemoglobin content >1.5 g/dl not requiring blood transfusion; pocket hematoma; pocket effusion not requiring surgical revision. Measurements and results: Hemorrhagic complications were seen in 4/198 control patients and 6/198 aspirin-only patients [2 vs. 3 %, p = 0.5, OR = 1.52 (0.42-5.46)]. Patients undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy had significantly more bleeding complications than patients in the aspirin-only group [11/99: 11.1 vs. 3 %, p = 0.005, OR = 3.95 (1.43-11.16)]. Major complications occurred in 1/198 control patients and 2/198 aspirin-only patients [0.5 vs. 1 %, p = 0.6, OR = 2.01 (0.18-22.35)]. In contrast, 7/99 patients undergoing dual antiplatelet therapy exhibited major complications [7.1 vs. 1 %, p = 0.004, OR = 7.46 (1.52-36.50)]. Conclusions: Although in patients undergoing pacemaker implantation dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel caused a significant increase of bleeding complications, the use of aspirin alone was not associated with a significant increase in bleeding complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Numerous studies suggest intensive and prolonged exercise is a risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF); many other studies have shown that regular exercise can protect against AF in the general population. Meta-analyses of these studies have produced conflicting results. Thus, we performed a systematic review of meta-analyses to understand better the evidence base linking exercise and AF. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of meta-analyses that evaluated the association between physical activity (PA) and AF. A search of MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar was performed. The Assessing Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2) measurement tool was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included reviews. Results: A total of twelve meta-analyses met the inclusion criteria. Five meta-analyses reported consistent evidence that the risk of AF was increased among athletes compared to non-athletes. The increased risk of AF ranged from OR 1.64(1.10-2.43) to OR 5.3(3.6-7.9). The results were less consistent among studies of different degrees of PA as three reviews suggest that PA was associated with a reduction in AF, but most studies reported no difference in AF risk. Subgroup analyses suggest that individuals younger than 54-60 years and men were more likely to develop AF with PA. Conclusion: PA has a dose-dependent J-shape effect on AF risk, with increased risk at very low and very high levels of PA. This effect seems to be gender-specific and more pronounced in younger males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The PRAETORIAN trial (A Prospective, Randomized Comparison of Subcutaneous and Transvenous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy) showed noninferiority of subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) compared with transvenous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (TV-ICD) with regard to inappropriate shocks and complications. In contrast to TV-ICD, S-ICD cannot provide antitachycardia pacing for monomorphic ventricular tachycardia. This prespecified secondary analysis evaluates appropriate therapy and whether antitachycardia pacing reduces the number of appropriate shocks.Methods: The PRAETORIAN trial was an international, investigator-initiated randomized trial that included patients with an indication for implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy. Patients with previous ventricular tachycardia <170 bpm or refractory recurrent monomorphic ventricular tachycardia were excluded. In 39 centers, 849 patients were randomized to receive an S-ICD (n=426) or TV-ICD (n=423) and were followed for a median of 49.1 months. ICD programming was mandated by protocol. Appropriate ICD therapy was defined as therapy for ventricular arrhythmias. Arrhythmias were classified as discrete episodes and storm episodes (≥3 episodes within 24 hours). Analyses were performed in the modified intention-to-treat population.Results: In the S-ICD group, 86 of 426 patients received appropriate therapy, versus 78 of 423 patients in the TV-ICD group, during a median follow-up of 52 months (48-month Kaplan-Meier estimates 19.4% and 17.5%; P=0.45). In the S-ICD group, 83 patients received at least 1 shock, versus 57 patients in the TV-ICD group (48-month Kaplan-Meier estimates 19.2% and 11.5%; P=0.02). Patients in the S-ICD group had a total of 254 shocks, compared with 228 shocks in the TV-ICD group (P=0.68). First shock efficacy was 93.8% in the S-ICD group and 91.6% in the TV-ICD group (P=0.40). The first antitachycardia pacing attempt successfully terminated 46% of all monomorphic ventricular tachycardias, but accelerated the arrhythmia in 9.4%. Ten patients with S-ICD experienced 13 electrical storms, versus 18 patients with TV-ICD with 19 electrical storms. Patients with appropriate therapy had an almost 2-fold increased relative risk of electrical storms in the TV-ICD group compared with the S-ICD group (P=0.05).Conclusions: In this trial, no difference was observed in shock efficacy of S-ICD compared with TV-ICD. Although patients in the S-ICD group were more likely to receive an ICD shock, the total number of appropriate shocks was not different between the 2 groups. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01296022. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atrial fibrillation (AF) leads to remodeling characterized by changes in both size and shape of the left atrium (LA). Here we aimed to study the effect of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) on the pattern of LA remodeling in AF-patients. HCM-patients (n = 23) undergoing AF ablation (2009–2012) were matched and compared with 125 Non-HCM patients from our prospective registry. Pre-procedural CT data were analyzed (EnSite Verismo, SJM, MN) to determine the maximal sagittal (anterior–posterior, AP), coronal (superior-inferior, SI and transversal, TV) dimensions and the sphericity index (LAS). Volume (LAV) was rendered after appendage (LAA) and pulmonary vein (PV) exclusion. A cutting plane, between PV ostia/LAA and parallel to the posterior wall, divided LAV into anterior- (LA-A) and posterior-LA (LA-P) parts. The ratio LA-A/LAV was defined as asymmetry index (ASI). HCM patients had a wider inter-ventricular septum and a smaller LV than Non-HCM patients. LA volume (LAV 166 ± 72 vs. 130 ± 36 ml, p = 0.03) and LA diameters were significantly larger in HCM patients. Anterior volume (LA-A: 112 ± 48 vs. 83 ± 26 ml, p < 0.001) differed significantly between groups, whereas the posterior volume LA-P (55 ± 28 vs. 47 ± 13 ml, p = 0.23) and LAS (75% vs. 78%, p = 0.089) was similar in both groups. As a result, ASI was significantly higher (67 ± 6 vs. 63 ± 6%, p = 0.01) in HCM than in Non-HCM patients. In conclusion, LA remodeling in patients with AF and HCM is characterized by asymmetric dilatation, driven by an anterior rather than a posterior dilatation. This can be characterized by three-dimensional imaging and could be used as surrogate of advanced atrial remodeling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little is known about rates of re-implantation and outcomes of patients not implanted with a device after transvenous lead extraction (TLE) in cardiac device related infections (CDRI). All patients with CDRI were included in a prospective registry. After TLE, the indication for re-implantation was evaluated according to the patients' history and most recent cardiac examinations. All patients were followed for complications and mortality. In addition, in patients discharged without device the frequency of device implantations was analyzed. Among 302 patients, only 123 (40.7%) met the indication for implantation of the same cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED), 68 (22.5%) received a different device and 111 (36.8%) patients were discharged without CIED. Reimplanted patients were younger (70 ± 11 vs. 73 ± 13 years; p = 0.004), more often male (83 vs. 69%, p = 0.006), had less systemic infection (38 vs. 60%; p < 0.001) and a higher prevalence of complete heart block (28 vs. 7%, p < 0.001). Reasons against re-implantation were: loss of indication (45%), never met indication (27%), patients' preference (17%), persistent infection (8%) and advanced age (3%). During 26 ± 18 months of follow-up, mortality in both groups was similar after adjusting for cofactors (HR 0.79; 95% CI 0.49–1.29; p = 0.352). More than one third of patients undergoing TLE for CDRI in our study are not implanted with a new device. Careful evaluation of the initial CIED indication allows for detection of over treated patients and may avoid unnecessary device–related complications. • Complete extraction is the adequate treatment for device-related infection. • Data on the rate of reimplantation after transvenous lead extraction are scarce. • Only 63% of our patients had an indication for ongoing device therapy. • All-cause mortality is not dependent from reimplantation. • A critical evaluation of the device indication is necessary after lead extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Data on the usefulness of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging for clinical decision making in patients with an implanted cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) are scarce. The present study determined the impact of CMR imaging on diagnostic stratification and treatment decisions in ICD patients presenting with electrical instability or progressive heart failure symptoms. Methods: 212 consecutive ICD patients underwent 1.5 T CMR combining diagnostic imaging modules tailored to the individual clinical indication (ventricular function assessment, myocardial tissue characterization, adenosine stress-perfusion, 3D-contrast-enhanced angiography); four CMR examinations (4/212, 2%) were excluded due to non-diagnostic CMR image quality. The resultant change in diagnosis or clinical management was determined in the overall population and compared between ICD patients for primary (115/208, 55%) or secondary prevention (93/208, 45%). Referral indication consisted of documented ventricular tachycardia, inadequate device therapy or progressive heart failure symptoms. Results: Overall, CMR imaging data changed diagnosis in 40% (83/208) with a significant difference between primary versus secondary prevention ICD patients (37/115, 32% versus 46/93, 49%, respectively; p = 0.01). The information gain from CMR led to an overall change in treatment in 21% (43/208) with a similar distribution in primary versus secondary prevention ICD patients (25/115,22% versus 18/93,19%, p = 0.67). The effect on treatment change was highest in patients initially scheduled for ventricular tachycardia ablation procedure (18/141, 13%) with revision of the treatment plan to medical therapy or coronary revascularization. Conclusions: CMR imaging in ICD patients presenting with electrical instability or worsening heart failure symptoms provided diagnostic or management-changing information in a considerable proportion (40% and 21%, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been recognised as the most prevalent sustained arrhythmia. Recently, a growing body of evidence has suggested that AF might be involved in the progression of cognitive impairment (CIM), potentially extending into types of dementia. Accordingly, the purpose of the present study was to summarise the findings of investigations examining association between AF and cognitive function as well as highlighting the possible causes of discrepancy between the findings and reviewing the probable mechanisms of CIM in patients affected with AF.Methods: A systematic search in the literature was conducted in the databases of PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar with no language restrictions, using specified search terms to identify studies published between 1 January 1990 and 1 April 2018. Then, study designs, participant information, diagnostic approaches used for cognitive assessments, and incidence/prevalence rates of CIM and/or dementia were assessed.Results: Out of the initial 2,364 articles retrieved, a total number of 40 studies were selected for data collection. Most studies had suggested a significant relationship between AF and CIM. In this regard, cerebral hypo-perfusion, altered cerebral blood flow, cerebral micro-bleeds, micro-emboli, vascular inflammation, cerebral small vessel diseases, vascular inflammation, and genetic factors were considered as the possible mechanisms of CIM in patients suffering from AF. It seemed that differences in study settings and designs, variations of diagnostic tools for CIM and AF, as well as underlying conditions such as age groups, concurrent chronic diseases, and therapeutic interventions for AF might be amongst probable factors justifying the diversity of findings across the selected articles.Conclusion: Although evidence is much more directed towards an association between AF and CIM, the role of AF in CIM needs to be confirmed in-depth via longer prospective and cohort studies at larger scales using accurate neuropsychological and cognitive function assessments. Moreover, the mechanisms involved in the relationship between AF and Alzheimer's disease (AD) require further studies. To conclude, the effect of different therapeutic strategies of AF on CIM should be investigated in more clinical trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advantages of upgrade to cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) have not been explored as carefully as the outcomes of de novo CRT implantations. Furthermore selection criteria for patients with the potential to benefit the most from this therapy are unknown. Therefore, we analyzed the long term outcome and its predictors in a real-world cohort receiving a CRT upgrade from previous pacemaker (PM) and defibrillator devices (ICD). We analyzed 86 patients (mean age 68 ± 9 years; 89% male) undergoing CRT upgrade procedures. Response to CRT as well as long term patient outcome was analyzed. NYHA class improved in majority of the patients during short term period (61%), and this trend remained constant during long term follow-up (54%). The observed all-cause mortality was 54% with mean survival of 49 ± 4 months. 11 patients underwent left ventricular assist device implantation or heart transplantation. In the multivariate analysis, only kidney function assessed by GFR (HR 0.97; 95% CI 0.95–0.99; p = 0.009) and LVEF (HR 0.92; 95% CI 0.87–0.97; p = 0.002) remain predictors for mortality. Patients who undergo an upgrade procedure to CRT demonstrate a significant response rate assessed by improvement in NYHA class, with initial baseline parameters such as LVEF and kidney function remaining significant predictors for mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Stage of platelet activation is an important modulator of stroke risk associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, factors determining such activation status of thrombocytes in patients with AF are still not well studied. Methods and results We enrolled 83 patients (mean age 61 ± 10 years, 61% male, mean CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc 2.1 ± 1.4) with paroxysmal (75%) or persistent (25%) AF admitted for catheter ablation. Blood samples were collected directly from the left atrium (LA) and platelet activation status was measured by means of flow cytometric assessment in whole blood and light transmission aggregometry (LTA) in unstimulated and Thrombin-receptor-activated-peptide-6 (TRAP-6)-stimulated platelet rich plasma. In flow cytometry, we measured fractions of platelet microparticles and aggregates as well as P-selectin expression on platelets' surfaces. LTA findings are expressed as maximal aggregation (MA), primary slope (PS) and area under curve (AUC). Cardiac anatomy has been assessed by means of echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging. Left atrial appendage (LAA) volume, but not LAA morphology nor morphological and functional parameters describing LA, was significantly correlated with increased pre-activation of platelets (R = 0.224, p = 0.043) and consecutive reduced response to TRAP-6 (R = 0.231, p = 0.037) measured by P-selectin expression in flow cytometry. Similarly, a reduced response to TRAP-6 in patients with larger LAA volume (PS: R = −0.240; p = 0.042; AUC: R = −0.244; p = 0.035; MA: R = −0.270; p = 0.019) as well as with heart failure (PS 54.75 vs 71.45, p = 0.026) was observed in LTA. Conclusion In patients with AF, LAA volume correlates with extent of platelet activation status, this effect is aggravated in patients with heart failure. Highlights • This is the first study comprehensively testing possible morphological determinators of increased platelet activation status in AF • The only significant association of platelet activation status was detected with LAA volume • Furthermore, platelet activation status was increased in patients with heart failure [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an effective treatment option for systolic heart failure, but the benefit of an additional implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) in elderly patients is not well established. The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of an additional ICD on survival in elderly CRT recipients. Methods Patients aged ≥75 years with an indication for CRT and primary preventive ICD therapy, which underwent implantation of either a CRT-pacemaker (CRT-P) or CRT-defibrillator (CRT-D) were included in the study. Patient characteristics, procedural and follow-up data, and subsequent all-cause mortality were analyzed. Results A total of 775 consecutive patients underwent CRT implantation, whereof 177 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of these, 80 patients with CRT-P and 97 with CRT-D formed the two study groups. Patients in the CRT-P group were significantly older (82.6 ± 4.5 vs. 77.8 ± 1.9 years, p < 0.001) and more often female (44 vs. 25%; p < 0.001), had a better left ventricular ejection fraction (29.5 ± 5.7 vs. 27.4 ± 6.0%; p = 0.019) and narrower QRS-complex (150 ± 19 vs. 158 ± 18 ms; p = 0.025). During a mean follow-up of 26 ± 19 months, 62 (35%) study patients died, 28 (35%) in the CRT-P and 34 (35%) in the CRT-D group (p = 0.994). The Kaplan-Meier analysis of survival probability showed no significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.562). Conclusion In our study, an additional ICD had no impact on survival in elderly patients undergoing implantation of a CRT device. Randomized controlled trials have to confirm this finding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rotor Elimination as Endpoint for AF Ablations Background There remains a lack of consensus regarding the ideal ablation strategy for atrial fibrillation (AF), particularly in patients with persistent or longstanding persistent AF. Given increasing evidence from clinical imaging studies that rotors sustain AF, rotor elimination may be a desirable procedural endpoint. However, there is no description to date of the clinical outcomes using rotor elimination during ablation as the procedural endpoint. Moreover, a series of studies question whether procedural AF termination is a desirable endpoint for ablation after many forms of AF ablation. Methods and Results We report a single-center experience of rotor elimination during AF ablation using Focal Impulse and Rotor Mapping (FIRM), describing 20 consecutive patients with case descriptions of 3 patients with recurrent longstanding persistent AF after prior ablation. In all cases, endocardial mapping using a 64-electrode basket catheter was performed to identify rotors, which were eliminated using radiofrequency catheter ablation. After it was verified that all identified rotors were eliminated, standard ablation consisting of PV isolation was performed. Notably, persistent AF terminated in only 1/20 (5%) patients. However, after a follow-up of 6 months, single-procedure freedom from AF was 80% (16/20 patients) with only 1 patient on antiarrhythmic drugs. All three patients in the highlighted series are AF free despite the lack of acute procedural AF termination. Conclusions Patients with persistent AF including those with unsuccessful prior ablation can be treated successfully by rotor targeted ablation, using the elimination of all rotors rather than acute AF termination as the procedural endpoint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of atrial fibrillation (AF) catheter ablations performed annually has been increasing exponentially in the western countries in the last few years. This is clearly related to technological advancements, which have greatly contributed to the improvements in catheter ablation of AF. In particular, state-of-the-art electroanatomical mapping systems have greatly facilitated mapping processes and have enabled complex AF ablation strategies. In this review, we outline contemporary and upcoming electroanatomical key technologies focusing on new mapping tools and strategies in the context of AF catheter ablation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Consensus statements were proposed for the diagnosis of Brugada syndrome (BS). The clinical diagnostic criteria were defined as documented ventricular fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia (VT), family history of sudden cardiac death at <45years, diagnostic ECGs of family members, inducibility of VT during electrophysiological study, syncope or nocturnal agonal respiration. The clinical validation of these criteria is still missing. Methods and results 280 patients (41±18years, male: 168 pts) with diagnostic coved type I ECG were included. Consensus clinical diagnostic criteria were present in 244 (87%) patients (40±18y, 142 males). In 36 pts (13% of the 280 pts, 51±12years, 27 males) consensus clinical diagnostic criteria were not met. Nine patients (25%) presented with spontaneous type I ECG. Ten of the 36 patients (28%) had a history of atrial fibrillation and 13 (36%) had conduction disease on the baseline ECG. In 23 patients (64%) family screening was not performed. Two of the 36 patients had undocumented syncope during follow-up. Univariate analysis showed no significant difference in event free survival between patients with or without consensus clinical diagnostic criteria. Conclusions: In a significant number of patients with diagnostic ECG pattern the current diagnostic criteria for BS are not met. These patients have frequently spontaneous type I ECG and clinical signs of Brugada syndrome as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation or conduction disturbances. Our results suggest that in patients with a diagnostic type I ECG pattern the current clinical consensus diagnostic criteria have limited added diagnostic value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) is an effective method for increasing quality of life and life expectancy for many patients with heart failure. Due to the good results, this procedure is used frequently in Germany and has established itself as a class I indication in heart failure therapy. In addition to His bundle pacing, left bundle branch pacing has now also made a name for itself, as it shows a good success rate and can be used in a wider range of patients. Now the question arises as to whether left bundle branch pacing is superior to classic biventricular pacing and what the evidence situation is in this respect. This question shall be discussed in this article considering current studies and guideline recommendations., Competing Interests: Einhaltung ethischer Richtlinien. Interessenkonflikt: S. Richter ist Berater für Medtronic, Boston Scientific, Abbott, und Biotronik; er ist Mitglied des Medtronic European Conduction System Advisory Board und Boston Scientific European Strategic Advisory Board. B. Lemke gibt an, dass kein Interessenkonflikt besteht. Für diesen Beitrag wurden von den Autor/-innen keine Studien an Menschen oder Tieren durchgeführt. Für die aufgeführten Studien gelten die jeweils dort angegebenen ethischen Richtlinien., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

Background: Inappropriate therapy (IAT) is an undesirable side effect of implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) therapy. Early studies with the subcutaneous ICD (S-ICD) showed relatively high inappropriate shock (IAS) rates. The PRAETORIAN (Prospective Randomized Comparison of Subcutaneous and Transvenous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator Therapy) trial demonstrated that the S-ICD is noninferior to the transvenous ICD (TV-ICD) with regard to the combined end point of IAS and complications. This secondary analyses evaluates all IAT in the PRAETORIAN trial., Methods: This international, multicenter trial randomized 849 patients with an indication for ICD therapy between S-ICD (n=426) and TV-ICD therapy (n=423). ICD programming was mandated by protocol. All analysis were performed in the modified intention-to-treat population., Results: In both groups 42 patients experienced IAT (48-month Kaplan-Meier estimated cumulative incidence, 9.9% and 10.1%, respectively; hazard ratio (HR), 0.99 [95% CI, 0.65-1.52]; P =0.97). There was no significant difference in patients experiencing IAS between both groups ( P =0.14). In the S-ICD group, 81 IAT episodes with 124 IAS and 1 inappropriate antitachycardia pacing occurred versus 89 IAT episodes with 130 IAS and 124 inappropriate antitachycardia pacing in the TV-ICD group. IAT episodes were most frequently caused by supraventricular tachycardias in the TV-ICD group (n=83/89) versus cardiac oversensing in the S-ICD group (n=40/81). In the TV-ICD group, a baseline heart rate >80 bpm (HR, 1.99 [95% CI, 1.05-3.76]; P =0.03), a history of atrial fibrillation (HR, 2.66 [95% CI, 1.41-5.02]; P =0.003), and smoking (HR, 2.46 [95% CI, 1.31-4.09]; P =0.005) were independent predictors for IAT. A QRS duration >120 ms was an independent predictor for IAT caused by cardiac oversensing in the S-ICD group (HR, 3.13 [95% CI, 1.34-7.31]; P =0.008). Post-IAS interventions significantly reduced IAS recurrence in both groups ( P =0.046)., Conclusions: There was no significant difference in IAT and IAS rates between the S-ICD and TV-ICD in a conventional ICD population, but causes and predictors for IAT differed between the devices. After the first IAS, an intervention significantly reduced the recurrence rate of IAS., Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01296022., Competing Interests: Dr Knops reports consultancy fees and research grants from Abbott, Boston Scientific, Medtronic, and Cardiac, and has stock options from AtaCor Medical, Inc. Dr El Chami reports consultancy fees from Boston Scientific and Medtronic. Dr Mittal reports consultancy fees from Boston Scientific and Medtronic.Dr Neuzil reports modest speaker honoraria from Biotronik, Boston Scientific, and Medtronic. K.M. Kooiman reports consultancy fees from Boston Scientific. Dr Lambiase reports educational and research grants from and is in the research board of Boston Scientific, and reports research grants from Abbott. Dr Vernooy reports consultancy fees from Medtronic and Abbott. M.C. Burke is a consultant, receives honoraria, as well as research grants from Boston Scientific and has equity in and is chief medical officer for AtaCor Medical, Inc. Dr Wright has consultancy arrangements with Boston Scientific and Medtronic and a research grant from Boston Scientific. Dr Nordbeck reports modest speaker honoraria from Biotronik, Boston Scientific, and Medtronic. Dr Miller reports consultancy fees from Boston Scientific. Dr Whinnett is an advisor for Boston Scientific, on the advisory board for Medtronic and Abbot, and reports speaker fees from Medtronic. The other authors report no conflicts.

Patients with chronic kidney disease face a high risk of sudden cardiac death, particularly in more advanced stages of renal dysfunction. Ventricular arrhythmias are prevalent and contribute to the heightened cardiovascular mortality. This review aims to explore the intricate interplay of disease-specific risk factors, arrhythmic triggers, and electrolyte disorders that amplify susceptibility to ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death in this population and influence the efficacy of available treatments., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

Aims: Cardioneuroablation (CNA) is a catheter-based intervention for recurrent vasovagal syncope (VVS) that consists in the modulation of the parasympathetic cardiac autonomic nervous system. This survey aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current CNA utilization in Europe., Methods and Results: A total of 202 participants from 40 different countries replied to the survey. Half of the respondents have performed a CNA during the last 12 months, reflecting that it is considered a treatment option of a subset of patients. Seventy-one per cent of respondents adopt an approach targeting ganglionated plexuses (GPs) systematically in both the right atrium (RA) and left atrium (LA). The second most common strategy (16%) involves LA GP ablation only after no response following RA ablation. The procedural endpoint is frequently an increase in heart rate. Ganglionated plexus localization predominantly relies on an anatomical approach (90%) and electrogram analysis (59%). Less utilized methods include pre-procedural imaging (20%), high-frequency stimulation (17%), and spectral analysis (10%). Post-CNA, anticoagulation or antiplatelet therapy is prescribed, with only 11% of the respondents discharging patients without such medication. Cardioneuroablation is perceived as effective (80% of respondents) and safe (71% estimated <1% rate of procedure-related complications). Half view CNA emerging as a first-line therapy in the near future., Conclusion: This survey offers a snapshot of the current implementation of CNA in Europe. The results show high expectations for the future of CNA, but important heterogeneity exists regarding indications, procedural workflow, and endpoints of CNA. Ongoing efforts are essential to standardize procedural protocols and peri-procedural patient management., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: none declared., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Ventricular tachycardia (VT), and its occurrence, is still one of the main reasons for sudden cardiac death and, therefore, for increased mortality and morbidity foremost in patients with structural heart [Kahle A-K, Jungen C, Alken F-A, Scherschel K, Willems S, Pürerfellner H et al. Management of ventricular tachycardia in patients with ischaemic cardiomyopathy: contemporary armamentarium. Europace 2022;24:538-51]. Catheter ablation has become a safe and effective treatment option in patients with recurrent VT [Cronin EM, Bogun FM, Maury P, Peichl P, Chen M, Namboodiri N et al. 2019 HRS/EHRA/APHRS/LAHRS expert consensus statement on catheter ablation of ventricular arrhythmias. Heart Rhythm 2020;17:e2-154]. Previous and current guidelines provide guidance on indication for VT ablation and risk assessment and evaluation of underlying disease. However, no uniform recommendation is provided regarding procedural strategies, timing of ablation, and centre setting. Therefore, these specifics seem to differ largely, and recent data are sparse. This physician-based European Heart Rhythm Association survey aims to deliver insights on not only infrastructural settings but also procedural specifics, applied technologies, ablation strategies, and procedural endpoints. Therefore, these findings might deliver a real-world scenario of VT management and potentially are of guidance for other centres., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: I have read the journal’s policy, and the authors of this manuscript have the following competing interests: A.S. has received speaker honoraria and consulting fees from Abbott, Boston Scientific, J&J, and Medtronic. L.R. has received speaker honoraria from Abbott and consulting honoraria from Medtronic. He also has received a research grant to the institution from Medtronic. All remaining authors declare that no competing interests exist., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Aims: Pericardial tamponade (PT) is the most frequent severe complication during electrophysiology (EP) procedures and requires immediate, co-ordinated, and effective treatment. However, multiple aspects of PT treatment are either not standardized or are under ongoing debate., Methods and Results: An online questionnaire consisting of 26 multiple-choice questions was sent out to the European Heart Rhythm (EHRA) Research Network and also distributed via social media outputs. The EHRA survey was conducted between May and June 2023. A total of 213 replies were received from European (87%) and non-European countries. Ninety per cent of all participants perform interventions in dedicated EP labs equipped with different ablation platforms. In case of PT, most participants use X-ray as the main imaging modality guiding pericardial puncture, predominantly aiming for an anterior puncture site. Sheaths of different sizes are introduced into the pericardial space (84.3%), followed by a pigtail catheter. Application of protamine is an established but variable step in the majority (84.6%). Novel oral anticoagulants (NOAC) antidotes are not used by 73.3% of participants, while 15.2% routinely apply them. Re-transfusion of aspirated blood is performed by 72.1% [before protamine administration (18.2%), after protamine administration (13.5%), if pericardial effusion cannot be controlled (40.4%)]. A total of 72.4% re-transfuse without blood filter systems. A decision for surgical intervention is mostly taken if bleeding continues despite all interventional measures., Conclusion: The current survey demonstrates that the management of PT is heterogeneous among centres. The findings of this survey may help to guide operators in their treatment and decisions in the setting of PT., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: none declared., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

There is increasing knowledge of the genetic basis of distinct cardiac pathologies that are related to ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VT) and sudden cardiac death (SCD). The identification of genes responsible for inherited cardiac diseases has led to the organization of cardiogenetic consultations in many countries worldwide. The 2022 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines for the management of patients with ventricular arrhythmias and the prevention of SCD and the international 2022 Expert Consensus Statement on the state of genetic testing for cardiac diseases emphasize the importance of genetic testing in cardiology practice along with appropriate information provision to affected individuals and their relatives. However, the context of genetic examination raises particular ethical, practical (including economic or financial), and legal challenges. This review aims to elucidate practical considerations related to legal aspects relevant for the evaluation of patients presenting with VT in Germany., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

Aims: The field of conduction system pacing (CSP) is evolving, and our aim was to obtain a contemporary picture of European CSP practice., Methods and Results: A survey was devised by a European CSP Expert Group and sent electronically to cardiologists utilizing CSP. A total of 284 physicians were invited to contribute of which 171 physicians (60.2%; 85% electrophysiologists) responded. Most (77%) had experience with both His-bundle pacing (HBP) and left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP). Pacing indications ranked highest for CSP were atrioventricular block (irrespective of left ventricular ejection fraction) and when coronary sinus lead implantation failed. For patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB) and heart failure (HF), conventional biventricular pacing remained first-line treatment. For most indications, operators preferred LBBAP over HBP as a first-line approach. When HBP was attempted as an initial approach, reasons reported for transitioning to utilizing LBBAP were: (i) high threshold (reported as >2 V at 1 ms), (ii) failure to reverse bundle branch block, or (iii) > 30 min attempting to implant at His-bundle sites. Backup right ventricular lead use for HBP was low (median 20%) and predominated in pace-and-ablate scenarios. Twelve-lead electrocardiogram assessment was deemed highly important during follow-up. This, coupled with limitations from current capture management algorithms, limits remote monitoring for CSP patients., Conclusions: This survey provides a snapshot of CSP implementation in Europe. Currently, CSP is predominantly used for bradycardia indications. For HF patients with LBBB, most operators reserve CSP for biventricular implant failures. Left bundle branch area pacing ostensibly has practical advantages over HBP and is therefore preferred by many operators. Practical limitations remain, and large randomized clinical trial data are currently lacking., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: Medtronic supported the survey project; however, the views and opinions expressed are those of the authors and not Medtronic and therefore no relevant conflicts of interest to report., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)