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Background Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has become an all-round tool for ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) since it plays an important role in all procedural steps. The key upgrade to the usefulness of ICE is its integration into three-dimensional (3D) electroanatomic mapping (EAM) system (ICE/EAM automatic integration system). The aim of this single-centre retrospective study was to evaluate feasibility, safety and acute efficacy of ICE/EAM automatic integration system guided fluoroless ablation of AF. Methods The study included patients with symptomatic paroxysmal or persistent AF undergoing first pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) from September 2017 to August 2020. All procedures were performed without the use of fluoroscopy. A detailed 3D virtual anatomy of the left atrium (LA) and structures relevant to AF ablation was constructed from ultrasound contours obtained with ICE probe inside the LA. Pulmonary veins (PVs) and antral regions were additionally mapped with fast anatomical mapping. PVI was performed with contact force (CF) sensing catheter. Procedural endpoint was successful PVI. Results A total of 98 consecutive patients underwent RFCA (34.7% females, median age 64.4 years, 64.3% paroxysmal AF). Acute PVI was achieved in all patients (100%). Forty-three patients (43.9%) underwent additional ablations for concomitant arrhythmias. Adverse events were detected in four patients (4.1%). The median procedure duration was 130 min (IQR 103.8-151.3). If only PVI was done the median procedure duration was 110.5 (IQR 100.0-133.8) CONCLUSIONS: ICE/EAM automatic integration system guided fluoroless ablation of AF is feasible, safe and acutely effective method for treatment of symptomatic AF. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Background: His bundle pacing (HBP) is a physiological alternative to biventricular (BiV) pacing. We compared short-term results of both pacing approaches in symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with moderately reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF ≥35% and

Izhodišče: Katetrska ablacija je danes uveljavljena metoda zdravljenja preddvorne fibrilacije (AF). O zgodnjih in srednjeročnih izidih smo že poročali. Tokrat želimo predstaviti še dolgoročne klinične izide. Metode: Spremljali smo vse bolnike, pri katerih smo v obdobju 2003‒2009 prvič opravili katetrsko ablacijo paroksizmalne ali vztrajajoče AF zaradi neučinkovitosti antiaritmičnega zdravljenja. Upoštevali smo tudi ablacijske posege zaradi tipične atrijske undulacije (AU) po letu 1999. Glavni cilj ablacijskega posega je bil popolna električna osamitev pljučnih ven (PV). Uporabili smo metodo segmentne radiofrekvenčne ablacije s fluoroskopskim nadzorom in beleženjem elektrogramov na krožnem katetru »laso«. Pri bolnikih s tipično AU smo opravili linijsko ablacijo kavotrikuspidalne ožine. Bolnike smo spremljali vsaj 5 let po doseženi popolni osamitvi PV oz. do telefonskega razgovora v aprilu 2020 oz. do morebitne smrti. Razvrstili smo jih v tri skupine: a) uspešne, tj. v stabilnem sinusnem ritmu z nemotečimi palpitacijami do 5 min, brez rednega antiaritmičnega zdravljenja, b) delno uspešne, ko so bili pretežno v sinusnem ritmu, z epizodami dokumentirane AF/AU do enkrat letno in tudi občasno uporabo antiaritmičnih zdravil v ustreznih odmerkih in c) neuspešne, tj. s pogostimi epizodami AF/AU, neučinkovitim antiaritmičnim zdravljenjem v ustreznih odmerkih ali z dolgotrajno vztrajajočo AF/AU. Ablacijski poseg smo ponovili zaradi recidiva AF/AU, vendar ne prej kot po 3 mesecih. Ob sumu na ponovitev aritmije smo naročili serijske posnetke EKG in Holterjevega monitoriranja. Podatke smo vrednotili s Kaplan-Meierjevo analizo, testom-t in Fisherjevim testom. Vrednost p < 0,05 je bila značilna. Rezultati: V raziskavo smo uvrstili 128 bolnikov (95 moških, 33 žensk; mediana starost pri prvem posegu zaradi AF je bila 54,5 let, rang 19–75), pri katerih smo opravili povprečno 1,7 ablacijskega posega zaradi AF oziroma 2 posega, če smo upoštevali še ablacije AU. Spremljanje je zaključilo 117 bolnikov (85 moških in 32 ženskah) po povprečno 11,7 letih (mediana 140 mesecev, rang 21–230 mesecev). Umrlo je 10 bolnikov (6 moških, 4 ženske), nihče pa zaradi ablacijskega posega. Od soobolevnosti sta bili v ospredju maligna bolezen in ščitnična disfunkcija. Verjetnost za ohranitev stabilnega sinusnega ritma je bila po 10 letih približno 50-odstotna. Po 15-odstotnem padcu verjetnosti za sinusni ritem v prvem letu je bil padec nato linearen, in sicer 4 % letno. Ablacijsko zdravljenje je bilo uspešno pri 54 bolnikih (46 %), delno uspešno pri 25 (21 %) in neuspešno pri 38 bolnikih (33 %, manj uspešno pri ženskah, p < 0,05). V zadnjih 10 letih spremljanja smo opravili manjši del ablacijskih posegov ‒ 46 (16 %). Antiaritmična zdravila je prejemalo 38 bolnikov (32 %), pretežno amiodaron in propafenon. Med ablacijskim posegom smo povzročili tamponado pri 5 bolnikih (4 %). Nihče od njih ni potreboval kirurškega posega. Drugih večjih zapletov ni bilo. Zaključek: Ablacijsko zdravljenje AF je dolgoročno dovolj uspešno, varno in po podatkih drugih avtorjev tudi cenovno učinkovito. Zato ga lahko priporočimo večini bolnikov z AF. Za celostno obravnavo bolnikov z AF pa so pomembni tudi: ureditev odpravljivih dejavnikov tveganja, antiaritmično zdravljenje in kakovostno antikoagulacijsko zdravljenje.

BACKGROUND: Multiple wearable devices for rhythm analysis have been developed using either photoplethysmography (PPG) or handheld ECG.HYPOTHESIS: The aim of this survey was to assess impact of these technologies on physicians' clinical decision-making regarding initiation of diagnostic steps, drug therapy, and invasive strategies.METHODS: The online survey included 10 questions on types of devices, advantages, and disadvantages of wearable devices as well as case scenarios for patients with supraventricular arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation (AF).RESULTS: A total of 417 physicians (median age 37 [IQR 32-43] years) from 42 countries world-wide completed the survey. When presented a tracing of a regular tachycardia by a symptomatic patient, most participants would trigger further diagnostic steps (90% for single-lead ECG vs 83% for PPG, P CONCLUSIONS: Tracings from wearable rhythm devices suggestive of arrhythmias are most likely to trigger further diagnostic steps, and in the case of PPG recordings rarely therapeutic interventions. A majority of participants expect these devices to facilitate diagnostics and arrhythmia screening but fear data overload and expect scientific society recommendations on the use of wearables.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of zero-fluoroscopy (ZF) catheter ablation (CA) for supraventricular tachycardias (SVT).Methods: 584 consecutive patients referred to our institution for CA of SVT were analysed. Patients were categorised into two groups; zero-fluoroscopy (ZF) group and conventional fluoroscopy (CF) group. The ZF group was further divided into two subgroups (adults and paediatric). Patient characteristics, procedural information, and follow-up data were compared. Results: The ZF group had a higher proportion of paediatric patients (42.2% vs 0.0 %; p < 0.001), resulting in a younger age (30.9 ± 20.3 years vs 52.7 ± 16.5 years; p < 0.001) and lower BMI (22.8 ± 5.7 kg/m2 vs 27.0 ± 5.4 kg/m2; p < 0.001). Procedure time was shorter in the ZF group (94.2 ± 50.4 min vs 104.0 ± 54.0 min; p = 0.002). There were no major complications and the rate of minor complications did not differ between groups (0.0% vs 0.4%; p = 0.304). Acute procedural success as well as the long-term success rate when only the index procedure was considered did not differ between groups (92.5% vs 95.4%; p = 0.155; 87.1% vs 89.2%; p = 0.422). When repeated procedures were included, the long-term success rate was higher in the ZF group (98.3% vs 93.5%; p = 0.004). The difference can be partially explained by the operators' preferences.Conclusion: The safety and efficacy of ZF procedures in adult and paediatric populations are comparable to that of CF procedures.

Background It is well-known that antiarrhythmic drugs (AAD) change the electrophysiological properties of the atrium mostly by increasing the atrial refractory period and wavelength for reentry. Frequently, atrial fibrillation (AF) catheter ablation is being performed with AAD interruption. However, the information on the impact of AAD on AF ablation performance is lacking, and AAD interruption is not desirable in highly symptomatic patients with persistent arrhythmia. Purpose We sought to study potential differences in achieving first-pass pulmonary vein isolation (FPI) during AF ablation in patients receiving different classes of ongoing AADs. Methods This was a prospective observational multicenter registry. All centers were invited to participate in the registry voluntarily. Data on demographic, clinical, and procedure characteristics were derived from a web-based system. All catheter ablation procedures were performed according to local practices. A total of 450 patients were enrolled, 408 of them underwent first-time AF ablation. Data on AAD characteristics were available in 350 patients (mean age 61±9 years, 195 (56%) males, 270 (77%) had paroxysmal AF). All patients were divided into three groups: ongoing I class AAD treatment (propafenone, ethacyzin, allapinin, n=76), ongoing II class AAD (beta-blockers, n=60), and ongoing III class AAD (amiodarone, sotalol, n=214). Results Baseline clinical and procedural characteristics between AAD groups are summarized in Table. Patients in the I class AAD group were younger, likely had paroxysmal AF, and a smaller mean left atrial diameter. Procedures in the III class AAD group were performed with a higher median target ablation index on the posterior left atrial wall. But the percentage of first-pass isolation was distributed equally between groups (60%, 68%, 61%, p=0.56). The correlation matrix revealed no significant associations between FPI and clinical and procedural variables (r=0.02–0.09; p>0.05 for all). Conclusion(s) Our real-life multicenter data demonstrate no difference in FPI achievement between patients receiving different AADs. We suggest that highly symptomatic patients may continue pharmacological treatment during AF ablation without compromising acute ablation success. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Ministry of Science and Higher Education grant (Russian Federation President Grant) Table 1. Clinical and procedural parameter

AIMS Atrial fibrillation (AF) catheter ablation is a common procedure requiring in most cases the use of fluoroscopy. We aimed to evaluate the factors associated with a lower dose of fluoroscopy used during AF ablation with cryoballoon or radiofrequency. METHODS In this prospective European registry, centers were requested to provide procedural characteristics of consecutive AF ablation cases. Lower doses of fluoroscopy were defined as those with dose-area-product (DAP) under the median dose used in the radiofrequency and the cryoballoon ablation groups. RESULTS A total of 638 AF ablation procedures were collected (n = 492 for radiofrequency and n = 146 for cryoballoon ablation groups) in 25 centers. The median [IQR] DAP were 926 [349;2092] and 1516 [418;3408] cGy*cm2 in the radiofrequency and cryoballoon groups, respectively. Main factors associated with lower DAP in cryoballoon ablation group were electrophysiology dedicated laboratory (OR 6.04, 95%CI 1.16-31.54; P = .03) and frequent dosimetry report (OR 21.39, 95%CI 5.43-98.54; P = .03). Main factors associated with lower DAP in the radiofrequency ablation group were the use of a chest dosimeter (OR 12.57, 95% CI 2.88-54.90; P = .01), biplane X-ray equipment (OR 3.12, 95%CI 1.89-5.16; P

Fluoroscopy is the principal imaging method for catheter ablation (CA) of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, radiation exposure carries potential health risk to patients and operators alike. Our aim was to study safety and efficacy of zero-fluoroscopy CA of paroxysmal AF with a combined use of electroanatomic mapping system (EAM) and intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). In addition, impact of ICE/EAM automatic integration system and contact force (CF) sensing technology on procedural times were assessed. We included 144 consecutive patients (69% males, age 60 ± 10 years, BMI 29 ± 4,6) referred for CA of symptomatic paroxysmal AF. All procedures were performed only with EAM system and ICE. No fluoroscopy was used. The acute procedural success of complete pulmonary vein isolation was achieved in all patients (100%) and adverse events were detected in eight patients (5.6%). In 53 (37%) patients the use of ICE/EAM automatic integration system shortened procedural times compared to those performed without it (148 ± 35 vs. 187 ± 44 min, p

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Other. Main funding source(s): This work was supported by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education grant (Russian Federation President Grant) #MD-2314.2020.7. Background/Introduction. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is the mainstay of invasive management of atrial fibrillation (AF). Amongst a variety of performance indicators, interlesion distance (ILD) has a potential to become a guiding one. Uptodate clinical AF RFA protocols suggest that ILD has to be less than 6 mm, however the research is still lacking in regard to its actual targeted value. Purpose. The aim of the research is to study a relationship between ILD and first-pass isolation (FPI) in ablation-index guided AF ablation procedures. Methods. This was a prospective observational multicenter study. Data were derived from the web-based system. Pulmonary veins (PV) isolation procedures were performed according to the local practice, and RFA settings depended on operators’ preferences. A total of 446 patients were enrolled, 407 of them underwent first-time AF ablation, data on ILD available in 322 subjects (177 (55%) males, mean age 62 ± 9 years old, 259 (80%) with paroxysmal AF). A mean ILD was calculated manually in each case as a sum of all ILDs divided by number of ablation tag points. FPI was considered in cases when no additional applications were required for bidirectional PV block following creation of a one circle around ipsilateral PVs and after a 20-min waiting period. Patients were divided into two groups according to ILD (Group 1 ILD≤ 4 mm, 163 patients and Group 2 ILD > 4m, 159 patients) post-procedurally. Results. The mean procedure time was 102 ± 52 min, the median fluoro time was 9 min [IQR 6; 15]. The following VisiTag parameters were used: the median target ablation index 400 [IQR 400; 500] on the left atrial anterior wall and 380 [IQR 380; 400] on the posterior segments, the median minimal contact force 3g [IQR 3; 4], median minimal time per a point - 4 sec [IQR 3; 15], mean catheter stability 3 mm (ranged between 2.5 and 3 mm). In 261 (81%) cases operators used 3 mm ablation tag size, and in 19% - 2 mm. The mean ILD was 4,1 ± 1,0 mm (3,2 ± 0,5 mm in Group 1 vs 4,6 ± 0,5 mm Group 2). FPI was achieved in 189 (59%) cases. In the "ILD ≤ 4 mm" group FPI was achieved in 93 (49,2%) cases and there were 96 (50,8%) cases of durable FPI in the "ILD >4 mm" group (χ2 = 2,4, p = 0,124). The mean procedure time was 111 ± 46 min and 100 ± 35 min in Group 1 and 2 (p = 0,01), respectively. The mean fluoro time was 13 ± 4 min and 11 ± 4 min in Group 1 and 2 (p = 0,08), respectively Conclusion(s). The results of our multicenter study suggest that shortening of the distance ≤4 mm has no effect on the achievement of first-pass PV isolation, but required more procedure and relatively more X-ray exposure time.

Background His bundle pacing (HBP) is a physiological alternative to biventricular (BiV) pacing. Our goal was to compare short-term results of both pacing approaches in ventricular rate refractory atrial fibrillation (AF) patients who underwent atrioventricular node ablation (AVNA).Methods Consecutive symptomatic AF patients with moderately reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF ≥35% and Results Among 24 patients (age 68.8 ± 6.5 years, 50% female, EF 39.6 ± 4%, QRS 95 ± 10ms) who underwent AVNA, 12 received BiV pacing and 12 HBP. Both pacing modalities had similar acute procedure-related success and complication rates. HBP was superior to BiV pacing in terms of post-implant QRS duration, implantation fluoroscopy times, reduction of LV volumes (EDV 127 (86 – 150) ml vs. 146 (121 – 190) ml, P = 0.101; ESV 64 (46 – 81) ml vs. 90 (75 – 123) ml, P = 0.008) and increase in LVEF (46 (41 – 55) % vs. 38 (35 – 42) %, P = 0.005). However, improvement of the New York Heart Association class was similar in both groups.Conclusions In ventricular rate refractory AF patients with moderately reduced EF and narrow QRS undergoing AVNA, HBP could be a conceivable alternative to BiV pacing. Further prospective studies are warranted to address the outcomes between both “ablate and pace” strategies.

Integration of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) and 3D electroanatomic mapping (EAM) system allows transseptal punctures (TSP) without the use of fluoroscopy. Compared with fluoroscopy, ICE provides better visualization of the anatomy relevant to TSP and early recognition of complications. The aim was to evaluate efficacy and safety of entirely ICE-guided TSPs in patients who underwent fluoroless catheter ablation of left-sided tachycardias. Consecutive 524 adult and pediatric patients referred to our institution from July 2014 to December 2019 were analyzed. Patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) were also included. All procedures were performed with ICE-guided TSP combined with 3D EAM. Adverse events following TSP and within 30 days of the procedure were analyzed. Altogether 949 TSPs (363 double punctures, 76.5%) were performed in 586 fluoroless ablation procedures: 451 (77%) were ablation of atrial fibrillation or atypical flutter, 75 (12.8%) of left-sided accessory pathway, 33 (5.6%) of ventricular tachycardia, and 27 (4.6%) of focal atrial tachycardia. Forty-six (7.8%) procedures were performed in pediatric population and 36 procedures (6.1%) in patients with CIED. Only 2 TSPs were unsuccessful (2/949, 0.2%). Overall procedural complication rate was 1.9% (11/586 procedures). There was only 1 TSP-related pericardial tamponade (2/949, 0.2%). In CIED patients, there was 1 lead dislocation following TSP. Entirely ICE-guided TSPs for different left-sided tachycardias can be safely and effectively performed in adult and pediatric population without the use of fluoroscopy. However, caution is advised in CIED patients due to possible lead dislocation risk.

Background Atrioventricular (AV) node ablation with biventricular (BiV) pacemaker implantation is a feasible rate control strategy for symptomatic permanent atrial fibrillation (AF) with rapid ventricular response and tachycardia-induced heart failure (HF). However, certain controversy exists since BiV pacing delivers non-physiological ventricular resynchronization and does not return left ventricular (LV) activation times to those seen in individuals with intrinsically narrow QRS. Permanent His bundle pacing (HBP) is a physiological alternative to conventional and BiV pacing. By capturing the native conduction system, depolarization of the ventricles through the His-Purkinje system induces normal synchronous ventricular activation. Purpose The aim of the study was to compare short-term outcomes between BiV pacing and HBP after AV node ablation in HF patients with symptomatic permanent AF and narrow QRS. Methods A total of 25 consecutive HF patients with permanent AF and narrow QRS (≤110 ms) who underwent AV node ablation in conjunction with BiV pacing or HBP in our centre were enrolled. Post-implant QRS duration, echocardiographic data, and New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class were assessed in short-term follow-up. Results Among 25 HF patients (aged 68 ± 7 years, 52% female, QRS 96 ± 9 ms, LVEF 37 ± 7%, NYHA II-IV), 13 received BiV pacing and 12 HBP. Implant and ablation procedures were acutely successful in both groups. In BiV group 1 patient had a LV lead dislodgement and 1 patient in the HBP group had an acute HB lead threshold increase after AV node ablation. In HBP group post-implant QRS duration was shorter compared to BiV (103 ± 15 ms vs. 177 ± 13 ms, p Conclusion In rate control refractory HF patients with permanent AF and narrow QRS atrioventricular node ablation in conjunction with HBP demonstrated superior electrical resynchronization and greater increase in LV ejection fraction compared to BiV pacing. Larger prospective studies are warranted to address clinical outcomes between both pace and ablate strategies.

Funding Acknowledgements None Introduction Conventionally, catheter movement and placement during catheter ablation (CA) is guided by X-ray fluoroscopy. In recent years, an ‘as low as reasonably possible’ principle was established to minimize the ionizing radiation dose received by the patient and the operator. Zero-fluoroscopy approach is at the extreme end of the spectrum of this principle. With exclusion of X-ray fluoroscopy, three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping system and intracardiac echocardiography are used for catheter guidance during ablation procedures. Purpose The aim of our study was to assess and compare procedural parameters and clinical outcomes of conventional X-ray fluoroscopy guided and zero-fluoroscopy CA for treatment of supraventricular tachycardias. Methods Retrospective analysis included CA procedure between April 2014 and May 2019. Five hundred and thirteen (513) patients were selected for analysis; they had confirmed diagnosis of atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia (AVNRT) or atrioventricular reentry tachycardia (AVRT). Patients were divided into two groups based on the use of fluoroscopy (conventional approach group - CG; zero-fluoroscopy group - ZF). Procedural data and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Two groups were compared using chi-squared test or Mann-Whithney U test when appropriate. Results There were 249 patients (44.2% males) in CG group, and 260 patients (47.5% males) in ZF group. ZF group included 113 (43.5%) pediatric patients. The groups differed in mean age (53.4 ± 16.4 years vs 30.0 ± 19.8 years (CG vs ZF), p In CG group, all procedures were performed using radiofrequency (RF) energy, whereas in ZF group, cryoablation was used in 18.3% of procedures at the discretion of the operator. Mean procedural duration was longer in CG group (100.1 ± 48.8 vs 90.4 ± 83.0 minutes, p Conclusions Zero-fluoroscopy CA of supraventricular tachycardias is associated with lower procedural success rate, but higher long-term arrhythmia-free survival rate when compared to conventional fluoroscopy guided procedures. It is possible, that these differences are stemming from somewhat different patient populations in both groups.

Background Cardiac masses are rare entities and often diagnostically challenging. When incidentally found multimodality diagnostic approach is warranted for further characterization and evaluation of its contribution to the patient’s symptoms. Case report 62-year-old male, smoker, with a history of non-Hodgkin lymphoma treated with radiation and chemotherapy 10 years ago, was admitted due to subacute myocardial infarction. Coronary angiogram showed subacute occlusion of partly collateralized RCA, subsequently treated with dilatation and stenting. Echocardiography revealed signs of dilated cardiomyopathy with severely reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (EF 20%), that could be due to chemotherapy-related cardiotoxicity. On admission CTA was performed to exclude aortic dissection since the patient presented with very severe chest pain radiating to the back. It showed a heterogeneous formation within the right ventricle (RV) extending along the interventricular septum from the apex towards the tricuspid annulus, appearing to involve interventricular septum as well. According to the imaging characteristics the mass was suspected to be a liposarcoma (Figure A). With contrast echocardiography hypoechogenic formation in the RV on parasternal long-axis view could be visualized (Figure B). Due to previous history of malignancy PET scan was performed that revealed hypometabolic RV mass, suggesting a benign tumor, without any sign of metastasis. We decided for percutaneous biopsy that was done under intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) guidance using the view from the RV towards RV outflow tract (Figure C). Histology revealed proliferation of mature adipocytes, either orthotopic or multiplied (Figure D). To exclude well-differentiated liposarcoma FISH (fluorescent in situ hybridization) with amplification of MDM2 gene was undertaken, confirming benign lesion, most probably cardiac lipoma. It was concluded that the mass was an incidental finding, not related to the patient’s symptoms and not causing any functional disturbances; therefore surgical therapy could be avoided. Conclusion While echocardiography remains the first-line imaging modality, multimodality diagnostic approach is mandatory for evaluation and treatment decision of a newly-discovered cardiac mass. Histology provides definitive diagnosis and ICE could be helpful for guiding percutaneous biopsy, thus avoiding invasive open-heart procedures. Figure. Cardiac CTA (A), contrast echocardiography (B), intracardiac echocardiography (C) and histologic specimen (D) of the right ventricular mass (arrows). Abstract P1344 Figure.

Introduction The clinical presentation of cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) ranges from an incidentally discovered condition to heart failure with risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD). As there is no single reliable test for detecting CS, noninvasive multimodality imaging plays a crucial role in establishing the diagnosis and SCD risk-stratification. We present a case of a young patient diagnosed with CS in whom, on the basis of multiple imaging results, dual-chamber ICD for primary prevention was implanted outside practice guidelines. Case A 37-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital due to occasional palpitations and incidentally recorded nonsustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT). One year ago she was diagnosed with pulmonary sarcoidosis and was put on methylprednisolone; ECG, 24-h Holter monitoring and echocardiogram were normal. In the present admission control echocardiogram, with the exception of decreased longitudinal deformation of the basal and mid segments of the infero- and anterolateral left ventricle (LV) wall, was unremarkable. However, cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) showed sub-epicardial late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) along the lower third of the antero- and inferolateral LV free wall and in the apical lateral segment of LV. Apart from some focal metabolically active lesions in the lungs and liver, fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography with computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) displayed increased metabolic activity in the apical half of the antero- and infero-lateral segments of the LV. On the basis of this results CS was confirmed. Given the age, reduced longitudinal strain, notable LV LGE presence and increased cardiac metabolic activity, dual-chamber ICD to prevent SCD and possible bradycardia risk was implanted. The patient continued with immunosupressive therapy; 8 mg of methylprednisolone every other day. Conclusion In our case, integrated multimodality imaging played a crucial role in establishing CS diagnosis and SCD risk stratification. A comprehensive evaluation of patients with CS is vital for making the best clinical decisions.

Background Transseptal puncture (TSP) for catheter ablation (CA) of left-sided tachycardias is traditionally performed with the aid of fluoroscopy. Compared to fluoroscopy, intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) can provide better orientation and imaging of soft tissue structures that are relevant to TSP. Objective Our aim was to evaluate feasibility and safety of ICE-guided TSP in CA treatment of left-sided tachyarrhythmias. Methods Consecutive fluoroless CA procedures with combined use of three-dimensional electroanatomic mapping system and ICE requiring TSP were evaluated in 357 patients (269 male, mean age 54 ± 18 years) referred to our hospital from July 2014 to November 2018. Among CA treated left-sided tachyarrhythmias 55 patients had accessory pathway, 16 had focal atrial tachycardia, 276 had atrial fibrillation or atypical atrial flutter and 10 had ventricular tachycardia. Success of transseptal access and complications related to TSP were analyzed. Adverse event requiring additional intervention was defined as major complication. Results Double TSPs were performed in 253 patients and single in 104 patients. Additional ablation procedures were needed in 26 patients and the rest had a single CA procedure. Altogether, 661 TSPs (274 double and 111 single) were attempted and 659 were successful (99.7%). Both TSPs failed due to severely thickened interatrial septum after previous cardiac surgery. In 14 patients (21 TSPs, 3.2%) a cardiac implantable electronic device (CEID) was present. ICE provided excellent lead visualisation and no lead dislodgements were recorded. Additional radiofrequency energy application to the transseptal needle was used for 3 challenging TSPs. Minor complications (pericardial effusions managed conservatively) occurred after 7 double TSP procedures (12/661, 1.8%). Major complication with pericardial tamponade (requiring pericardiocentesis) occurred during one double TSP (2/661, 0.3%). No TSP-related embolic complications were observed. Conclusion ICE-guided TSP in CA of left-sided tachyarrhythmias is safe with excellent success rates. In addition, ICE could provide additional reassurance in difficult cases and in patients with CEIDs.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) induces structural and electrical remodeling (ER) in heart failure (HF) patients. Our aim was to assess time course of ER of native conduction and mechanical remodeling after CRT and impact of CRT-induced ER on clinical outcome.We prospectively included 62 patients (aged 66 ± 10 years). Echocardiographic and ECG parameters were measured at baseline and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after implantation. Biventricular pacing was temporary inhibited during each follow-up to record intrinsic ECG. ER was defined as a decrease in native pre-implantation QRS duration ≥10 ms. During follow-up HF hospitalizations, cardiovascular death and transplantation (combined end point) were recorded. There were significant changes in intrinsic ECG parameters during follow-up; the narrowing of QRS duration was already observed after 1 month (median 185 ms [interquartile range (IQR) 175-194] vs 180 ms [170-194]; P .001). Left ventricular (LV) volumes decreased only after 3 months of CRT (median end-systolic volume 167 mL [137-206] vs 140 mL [112-196]; P .001). Only patients with ER (n = 24) exhibited significant mechanical remodeling and showed superior survival free from the combined end point compared with patients without ER (log-rank P = .028).Electrical remodeling of native conduction precedes detectable left ventricular structural changes after CRT. ER of native conduction is associated with better clinical outcome following CRT.

Background Catheter ablation (CA) of supraventricular tachycardias (SVTs) is traditionally performed with the aid of fluoroscopy. However, ionizing radiation is associated with potentially harmful deterministic and stochastic effects to the patient and operator. Many methods have been suggested to reduce the radiation exposure, one of the methods, which completely eliminates ionizing radiation exposure, is zero-fluoroscopy catheter ablation. Purpose Our aim was to assess feasibility, success rate and safety of zero-fluoroscopy CA for treatment of various right and left-sided SVTs with the use of three-dimensional (3D) electroanatomical mapping system (EAM) and intracardiac echocardiography (ICE). Methods Consecutive 274 patients (140 male, mean age 33.5±21.8 years) with documented SVTs underwent CA in our center from April 2014 to May 2018. All procedures were performed with the 3D EAM without any use of fluoroscopic guidance. ICE was used as primary visual modality when left-sided approach was required. The procedural endpoint for atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) was nodal rhythm during radiofrequency (RF) energy delivery and non-inducibility. The procedural endpoint for focal atrial tachycardia (AT) was termination and non-inducibility. The procedural endpoint for accessory pathway (AP) mediated tachycardia was absence of bidirectional conduction over the AP. The procedural endpoint for typical atrial flutter (AFL) was bidirectional block over the cavo-tricuspid isthmus. Results One hundred thirty two patients had AVNRT, 79 had AP mediated tachycardia (47 left-sided, 25 septal and 7 right-sided), 31 patients had AT (8 left-sided), 32 patients had AFL. Cryo-ablation was used in 14 (14/132, 10.6%) patients with AVNRT and 5 patients with septal AP (5/25, 20%), RF was used in the rest. The procedural endpoint was achieved in all procedures (100%). During the mean follow-up of 343±253 days the recurrence rate for AVNRT, AP mediated tachycardia, focal AT, AFL was 7.5%, 16.4%, 32.3% and 9.4%, respectively. No procedural complications were observed. Conclusions Zero-fluoroscopy CA of right and left-sided SVTs with the use of the 3DEAM and ICE is feasible, safe and results in promising long-term success rates after single CA procedure. Acknowledgement/Funding None

Introduction: Tiamulin is a semisynthetic pleuromutilin diterpene veterinary antibiotic, widely used in farms. We present a case of prolonged QT-interval and ventricular tachyarrhythmia after tiamu...

Incidence of all types of arrhythmias is higher during pregnancy, clinically significant tachyarrhythmias are rare. Since maternal tachyarrhythmias could cause hemodynamic compromise with adverse fetal complications, early recognition and effective treatment is warranted. Catheter ablation (CA) is widely regarded as the most effective treatment option for various tachyarrhythmias; however, possible procedural complications and radiation exposure that may cause harm to the mother and the fetus resulted in a hesitation to perform CA during pregnancy. Recent advances in non-fluoroscopic catheter navigation have helped minimize the radiation exposure during ablation. Although available published evidence on the safety profile and efficacy of CA without the use of fluoroscopy in comparison with anti-arrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy during pregnancy is very limited, it could lower the threshold to perform ablation in pregnant women that are not responsive to AAD therapy. Fluoroless CA could especially be utilized in pregnant patients with uncontrolled tachycardia causing hemodynamic compromise with fetal distress and in tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy.

Background: Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) is an established imaging modality for guiding electrophysiology procedures, with a rapidly expanding role also in other percutaneous structural interventions. Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) is another potential application where ICE can be used to guide diagnosis of cardiac tumors.1-3 Here we present our first case of a cardiac tumor in which EMB was guided by ICE. Case report: 62-year-old man with a history of non-Hodgkin lymphoma treated with radiation and chemotherapy 10 years ago was admitted due to acute coronary syndrome. Coronary angiogram showed a subtotal occlusion of already collateralized RCA. Due to induced ischemia on myocardial perfusion imaging postponed percutaneous coronary intervention of RCA was performed. During diagnostic work-up at admission when pulmonary embolism was at first suspected, CTA was performed. It showed a heterogeneous formation in the right ventricle (RV) with a thickness of up to 16 mm, that extended from the base towards the apex and into the interventricular septum at the level of the tricuspid ring (Figure 1). According to the CT appearance the mass was suspected to be a liposarcoma. Transthoracic echocardiography showed a hypoechogenic form in the RV, clearly defined after application of contrast for left ventricular opacification. Due to previous history of malignancy PET CT was done that revealed hypometabolic RV mass without any sign of distant metastasis. Percutaneous biopsy of the cardiac mass for histopathological diagnosis was performed guided by ICE and fluoroscopy. ICE allowed continuous imaging of intracardiac structures and clear visualization of the cardiac mass in the RV outflow tract under the pulmonary valve (Figure 2). On angiography there was no evidence of flow restriction. A cardiac biopsy catheter was percutaneously inserted into the RV and with the guidance of ICE accurate positioning of the bioptome was achieved. Three tumor specimens were taken for analysis. The histology revealed lipoma, with no evidence of malignancy. In the absence of any cardiac functional disturbances surgical therapy could be avoided and follow-up was proposed. Conclusion: Cardiac masses are rare and often incidental findings. Histology provides definite diagnosis and ICE could be a valuable tool for guiding biopsy procedure. Our first experience confirmed the benefits of ICE that are real-time visualization of cardiac structures, facilitating proper positioning of biopsy catheter, good patient tolerability and the lack of need for general anesthesia. Therefore, with ICE guided percutaneous biopsy the more invasive diagnostic open heart procedures could be avoided.

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has been shown to induce left ventricular reverse remodeling, but little is known about its influence on ventricular repolarization.The purpose of this study was to evaluate changes in ventricular repolarization of native conduction after CRT and its relation to ventricular tachycardia (VT) and ventricular fibrillation (VF) during long-term follow-up.We prospectively included 64 patients with heart failure treated with CRT. QT interval, TpTe, and TpTe/QT ratio were analyzed from 20-minute high-resolution ECGs that were recorded at baseline and 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after CRT implantation. CRT was temporary inhibited during follow-up to record intrinsic ECG. Patients with a decrease of left ventricular end-systolic volume ≥15% at 12-month follow-up (mid-term follow-up) were considered as responders. Occurrences of VT/VF during follow-up were noted.Significant increase of repolarization heterogeneity in the first months after implantation was observed (P.05) but then declined during 12 months of follow-up. Patients with VT/VF during long-term follow-up had higher repolarization heterogeneity at mid-term follow-up than patients without VT/VF (TpTe/QT ratio: 0.263 [0.204-0.278] vs 0.225 [0.204-0.239]; P = .045). Echocardiographic response at mid-term follow-up did not significantly influence the rate of VT/VF (log-rank P = .252). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, only high repolarization heterogeneity at mid-term follow-up (TpTe/QT ratio0.260) was independently associated with high risk of VT/VF (hazard ratio 4.29; 95% confidence interval 1.40-13.15; P = .011).CRT induces time-dependent changes in repolarization parameters in the first year after implantation. High repolarization heterogeneity at mid-term follow-up was associated with higher rate of VT/VF during long-term follow-up.

Introduction Frequent ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) may cause symptoms and/or lead to deterioration of LV systolic function. Although frequent VPCs may be abolished by catheter ablation, it may be challenging in case of their origin from the LV papillary muscles (PMs). Our collaborative study aimed to analyze in detail the site of origin and the outcome of ablation. Methods Consecutive 34 patients (males: 68%; aged 62±12 years; LV ejection fraction: 50±9%) undergoing catheter ablation of VPCs originating from PMs were included. All procedures were guided by intracardiac echocardiography. Results The size and shape of PMs were highly variable. The length of anterolateral and posteromedial PM was 23±4 mm and 28±7 mm, respectively. In about one-third of patients, the PM was formed by two distinctly separate heads. The ectopic foci were located on anterolateral, posteromedial or both PM in 35%, 56% and 9% of cases, respectively. Their location was found within the distal, mid or proximal (basal) third of PM in the 67%, 19% and 14%, respectively. A total of 86% of PM foci were acutely abolished and long-term success was achieved in 65% of patients. Absence of VPCs of other morphologies and a high burden of ectopic activity before ablation were associated with favorable clinical outcome. Conclusion VPCs originate predominantly from the distal portion of the PM. This knowledge may facilitate the mapping in patients with infrequent ectopic beats. Intracardiac echocardiography is of crucial importance for navigation of the ablation catheter and for assessment of its stability at PM target sites. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved

Evidence from animal and human studies suggests that cryoablation might be associated with a lesser inflammatory response and activation of coagulation compared with radiofrequency ablation. The study was aimed at comparing the effect of cryoballoon and radiofrequency catheter ablation of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation on markers of myocardial damage, inflammation, and activation of coagulation. Forty-one patients received either cryoballoon (n = 23) or radiofrequency (n = 18) ablation of atrial fibrillation. We measured troponin I, high-sensitivity CRP, and interleukin 6 at baseline from the cubital vein, and from the right and left atrium before and after ablation, and from the cubital vein the following day. Prothrombin fragments 1 + 2, soluble P‑selectin, and D‑dimer were measured before and after ablation from both atria. We observed higher troponin I release in the cryoballoon than in the radiofrequency group (7.01 mcg/l (interquartile range [IQR]: 5.30–9.09) vs 2.32 mcg/l (IQR: 1.45–2.98), p

Reconstructing left atrium (LA) anatomy for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation with CARTOSound intracardiac ultrasound (ICE) is usually done from the right heart chambers. However, as visibility of LA structures with this method is frequently suboptimal additional point-by-point or fast anatomical

The intrathoracic impedance monitor system measures impedance between the device case and the right ventricular coil and reflects intrathoracic fluid status. It is used to detect early volume overload in patients with chronic heart failure. We report a case of inappropriate activation of the intrathoracic impedance monitor alarm in a patient with epidermoid lung cancer and pleural carcinosis.

Aims To study anterograde atrioventricular (A-V) nodal electrophysiological properties through the right–atrial (Ri) and left-atrial inputs (Li) under the pharmacological autonomic blockade (AUB) in patients with slow–fast A-V nodal re-entrant tachycardia (AVNRT) and in controls. Methods and results Twenty-nine patients with slow–fast AVNRT and 15 control subjects were included. Programmed stimulation with single extrastimulus was performed from the right atrial appendage to test the Ri, and from the posterolateral coronary sinus to test the Li. The AUB was induced with intravenous atropine (0.04 mg/kg) and metoprolol (0.15 mg/kg). The A-V nodal conduction times, refractoriness, discontinuous conduction (≥40 ms atrial-His interval ‘jump’), and inducibility of AVNRT or reciprocating beats were compared. The A-V nodal conduction times were longer: (i) through the Ri than Li, (ii) in patients than controls, and (iii) in baseline than after AUB—at slow rates in both groups and at fast rates in patients through the right input only ( P < 0.05–0.001). A significantly longer slow pathway effective refractory period was demonstrated through the Li than the Ri in patients in baseline ( P < 0.05). The discontinuous conduction was demonstrated 94 times in 25 of 29 (83%) patients and 15 times in 6 of 15 (40%) controls ( P < 0.01), and was most frequently encountered with the Ri testing. Likewise, inducibility was manifested most frequently with the Ri testing ( P = 0.08), and decreased after AUB during this testing only ( P = 0.05). Conclusion The inherent magnitude of discordance of A-V nodal conduction velocity, refractoriness, and parasympathetic modulation between the Ri and Li to the A-V node may play a role in the aetiology of AVNRT.