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Background Ventricular interdependence may account for altered ventricular mechanics in congenital heart disease. The present study aimed to identify differences in load-dependent right ventricular (RV)–left ventricular (LV) interactions in porcine models of pulmonary stenosis (PS) and pulmonary insufficiency (PI) by invasive admittance-derived hemodynamics in conjunction with noninvasive cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). Methods Seventeen pigs were used in the study (7 with PS, 7 with PI, and 3 controls). Progressive PS was created by tightening a Teflon tape around the pulmonary artery, and PI was created by excising 2 leaflets of the pulmonary valve. Admittance catheterization data were obtained for the RV and LV at 10 to 12 weeks after model creation, with the animal ventilated under temporary diaphragm paralysis. CMR was performed in all animals immediately prior to pressure–volume catheterization. Results In the PS group, RV contractility was increased, manifested by increased end-systolic elastance (mean difference, 1.29 mm Hg/mL; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57-2.00 mm Hg/mL). However, in the PI group, no significant changes were observed in RV systolic function despite significant changes in RV diastolic function. In the PS group, LV end-systolic volume was significantly lower compared with controls (mean difference, 25.1 mL; 95% CI, -40.5 to -90.7 mL), whereas in the PI group, the LV showed diastolic dysfunction, demonstrated by an elevated isovolumic relaxation constant and ventricular stiffness (mean difference, 0.03 mL−1; 95% CI, -0.02 to 0.09 mL−1). Conclusions The LV exhibits systolic dysfunction and noncompliance with PI. PS is associated with preserved LV systolic function and evidence of some LV diastolic dysfunction. Interventricular interactions influence LV filling and likely account for differential effects of RV pressure and volume overload on LV function.

Thrombus formation is a feared complication following bidirectional cavopulmonary shunt (BCPS). We aimed to investigate the effect of thrombus formation on outcome. BCPS was performed in 525 patients at our center between 1998 and 2018. The impacts of thrombus formation on survival and probability of Fontan completion were analyzed, and risk factors for thrombus formation were examined. Thrombus formation occurred in 30 patients (5.7%). Compared with the remaining 495 patients, there was no significant difference in the median age at BCPS (4.9 vs 4.7 months; P = 0.587). However, unbalanced atrioventricular septal defects (17 vs 5%; P = 0.008) and preoperative ventricular dysfunction (23.3 vs 8%; P = 0.004) were more frequent in patients who developed a thrombus. Thrombolytic therapy was performed in all patients and surgical thrombus removal was required in 13 patients. In-hospital mortality was higher in patients with thrombus (30.0 vs 2.2%; P0.001). Of 505 hospital survivors, an estimated survival at 1 year after hospital discharge following BCPS was 84.4% (95% CI, 76.1-92.7%) in patients with thrombus and 96.8% (95% CI, 96.0-97.6%) in those without (P0.001). Cumulative incidence of Fontan completion at 3 years after BCPS was 52.8% (95% CI, 30.3-75.2%) in patients with thrombus and 90.1% (95% CI, 87.2-92.9%) in those without (P = 0.004). Higher left atrial pressure (OR = 1.165; P = 0.029) and longer cardiopulmonary bypass time (OR = 1.013, P = 0.001) at BCPS were independent risk factors for thrombus formation after BCPS. Thrombus formation after BCPS poses a significant risk for survival and Fontan completion. Preoperative higher left atrial pressure and longer cardiopulmonary bypass time are significant risk factors.

Background: Ischemic heart disease is a major cause of the diastolic heart failure. Risk of heart failures was increased with microvascular coronary disease, which is characterized by left ventricular stiffness with impaired relaxation and reduced compliance. Aim of this study is to estimate the effect of the severity of myocardium ischemia on the left ventricle ejection fraction and left ventricular volume using SPECT with 99mTc MIBI and to compare the results with the echocardiography. The study included 117 subjects with ischemic heart disease were examined using SPECT and echocardiography techniques. The following parameters were measured: left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV) , left ventricular end diastolic volume (LVEDV) , and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Results show that the change difference in EDV between the two technique was (98.79%) with insignificant (p > 0.05). While the change in the LVEF% between both groups was (105.40%) with significant (p 0.05). It was concluded that SPECT with 99mTc MIBI had a good relation with the echocardiography technique for evaluation of the left ventricular ejection fraction and the left ventricular volumes. The results showed that LVEF was decreased in patients with severe ischemic disease.

Yuan-Yuan Xing,1,2 Hong-Yuan Xue,2 Yu-Quan Ye1,2 1Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050017, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Ultrasound, Hebei General Hospital, Shijiazhuang, 050051, Hebei, People’s Republic of ChinaCorrespondence: Yu-Quan YeDepartment of Ultrasound, Hebei General Hospital No. 348 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, 050051, People’s Republic of ChinaEmail yuquanyeyy@163.comObjective: This study aims to explore the feasibility of HeartModel A.I. (HM) three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) to assess left ventricular function and discover suitable border parameter settings.Methods: A total of 113 patients that underwent echocardiography in our hospital were eligible for inclusion. The HM 3DE (HM method) and conventional 3DE (3D method) were used to analyze echocardiography images. The HM was set to different border settings (end-diastolic [ED] and end-systolic [ES] settings) to assess different left ventricular systolic function parameters including left ventricular end diastolic volume (LVEDV), left ventricular end systolic volume (LVESV), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and left ventricular diastolic function parameters including maximal left atrium volume (LAVMAX). All of these parameters were evaluated using the HM method and then compared with the 3D method.Results: The differences in LVEDV, LVESV, and LVEF measured with different HM border settings were statistically significant (P< 0.05) and were strongly correlated with the 3D method. For LVEF, the reading using the HM method with ED and ES = 70 and 30 showed the best agreement with the 3D method, and the difference in the readings was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). For LVEDV and LVESV, the reading using the HM method with ED and ES = 40 and 20 showed the best agreement with the 3D method, but the difference in the readings was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The measurements taken using the HM method were more reproducible than those taken using the 3D method (P< 0.05). The measurement time when using the HM method was significantly less than the 3D method (P< 0.05). In terms of LAVMAX, the correlation between the HM and 3D methods was strong, but the requirements for agreement were not satisfied.Conclusion: Evaluation of the left ventricular function using HM 3DE is feasible, saves time, and is reproducible. To assess the left ventricular function, the border parameter setting of ED and ES = 70 and 30 provided the best fit for the Chinese population.Keywords: three-dimensional echocardiography, endocardial border delineation, left ventricular function, left ventricular volume

Long-term sports training leads to myocardial adaptations, with remodelling of the heart chambers. However, while myocardial adaptations of the left heart are well described, remodelling of the right heart and its impact on the development of arrhythmias is still debated. To conduct a systematic review on right ventricle (RV) and right atrium (RA) structural and functional changes in athletes who participate in long-term endurance training. Systematic review. A systematic literature search was conducted. All the articles reporting right heart echocardiographic (ECHO) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) parameters evaluated in endurance athletes and sedentary subjects were considered eligible. A multivariate analysis was conducted to investigate whether age, sex, body surface area (BSA), intensity of training are associated with RV ECHO, CMR parameters and RA ECHO parameters. A positive association between age and right atrium area (RAA) (P = 0.01) was found. This is a negative association to RV E/A (P = 0.004), and RV end diastolic diameter (RVED) longitudinal (P = 0.01). A positive association between BSA and RVED middle (P = 0.001), as well between BSA and RAA (P = 0.05) was found, along with a negative association with RV E/A (P = 0.002). A positive association between intensity of training and RV end systolic area (RVESA) (P = 0.03), RV end diastolic volume indexed (RVEDVI) (P = 0.01), RV end systolic volume indexed (RVESVI) (P = 0.01) was found, along with a negative association with ejection fraction (EF %) (P = 0.01). Endurance athletes demonstrated an association between RV remodelling and age, BSA and intensity of training.

Aim: Multiomics delivers more biological insight than targeted investigations. We applied multiomics to patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), with machine learning applied to advanced ECG (AECG) and echocardiography artificial intelligence (Echo AI). Patients & methods: In total, 46 patients with HFrEF and 20 controls underwent metabolomic profiling, including liquid/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and solid-phase microextraction volatilomics in plasma and urine. HFrEF was defined using left ventricular (LV) global longitudinal strain, EF and N-terminal pro hormone BNP. AECG and Echo AI were performed over 5 min, with a subset of patients undergoing a virtual reality mental stress test. Results: A-ECG had similar diagnostic accuracy as N-terminal pro hormone BNP for HFrEF (area under the curve = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.85–0.99), and correlated with global longitudinal strain (r = -0.77, p -4) in HFrEF. Conclusion: Multiomics-related machine learning shows promise for the assessment of HF.

Introduction:Systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure is an important haemodynamic variable in adult patients with Fontan circulation. Risk factors associated with elevated end-diastolic pressure have not been clearly identified in this population.Methods:All patients > 18 years with Fontan circulation who underwent cardiac catheterisation at our centre between 1/08 and 3/19 were included. Relevant patient variables were extracted. Univariate and multivariate general linear models were analysed to identify variables associated with end-diastolic pressure.Results:Forty-two patients were included. Median age was 24.0 years (20.9–29.0) with a body mass index of 23.7 kg/m2 (21.5–29.7). 10 (23.8%) patients had a systemic right ventricle. The median (Interquartile range) and mean pulmonary artery pressure were 11.0 mmHg (9.0–12.0) and 16.0 mmHg (13.0–18.0), respectively. On univariate analysis, end-diastolic pressure was positively associated with body mass index (p < 0.01), age > 25 years (p = 0.04), symptoms of heart failure (p < 0.01), systemic ventricular systolic pressure (p = 0.03), pulmonary artery mean pressure (p < 0.01), and taking diuretics (p < 0.01) or sildenafil (p < 0.01). End-diastolic pressure was negatively associated with aortic saturation (p < 0.01). On multivariate analysis, end-diastolic pressure was positively associated with age ≥ 25 years (p < 0.01), and body mass index (p = 0.04).Conclusions:In a cohort of adult patients with Fontan circulation undergoing catheterisation, end-diastolic pressure was positively associated with age ≥ 25 years and body mass index on multivariate analysis. Maintaining a healthy body mass index may offer haemodynamic benefit in adults with Fontan physiology.

BACKGROUND Coronary heart disease (CHD) causes many adverse cardiovascular events and poses a threat to the patient’s health and quality of life. AIM To evaluate ultrasonography for evaluation of cardiac function and lesion degree in patients with CHD. METHODS A total of 106 patients with CHD (study group) and 106 healthy individuals (control group) in our hospital from March 2019 to September 2020 were selected for this study. All subjects were examined by ultrasound, and the mitral orifice’s early-to-late diastolic blood flow velocity ratio (E/A), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVDd), and left atrial diameter (LAD) were measured. Values were compared between the study group and healthy group, and the correlation between the ultrasonic parameters of patients with different cardiac function grades and the degree of CHD were assessed. In addition, the ultrasonic parameters of patients with different prognoses were compared after a follow-up for 6 mo. RESULTS E/A (1.46 ± 0.34) of the study group was smaller than that of the control group (1.88 ± 0.44), while LVDd (58.24 ± 5.05 mm) and LAD (43.31 ± 4.38 mm) were larger (48.15 ± 3.93 and 34.94 ± 2.81, respectively; P < 0.05). E/A for patients with grade III disease (1.41 ± 0.43) was smaller and their LVDd (60.04 ± 4.21 mm) and LA (44.16 ± 2.79 mm) were larger than those in patients with grade II disease (1.71 ± 0.48, 52.18 ± 3.67 mm, and 39.68 ± 2.37, respectively; P < 0.05). Patients with grade IV disease had smaller E/A (1.08 ± 0.39) and larger LVDd (66.81 ± 5.39 mm) and LAD (48.81 ± 3.95 mm) than patients with grade II and III disease (P < 0.05). In patients with moderate disease, E/A (1.44 ± 0.41) was smaller and LVDd (59.95 ± 4.14 mm) and LAD (45.15 ± 2.97 mm) were larger than in patients with mild disease (1.69 ± 0.50, 51.97 ± 3.88 and 38.81 ± 2.56 mm, respectively; P < 0.05). In patients with severe disease, E/A (1.13 ± 0.36) was smaller and LVDd (67.70 ± 6.11 mm) and LAD (49.09 ± 4.05 mm) were larger than in patients with moderate disease (P < 0.05). E/A was negatively correlated with cardiac function classification and disease severity, while LVDd and LAD were positively correlated with cardiac function classification and disease severity (P < 0.05). E/A (1.83 ± 0.51) for patients with good prognosis was higher than that for those with poor prognosis (1.39 ± 0.32), while LVDd (49.60 ± 4.39 mm) and LAD (36.13 ± 3.05 mm) were lower (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION The ultrasonic parameters of patients with CHD are abnormal, and differ significantly in patients with different cardiac function grades, lesion degree, and prognosis.

BACKGROUND Intrinsic cardiac impairment in Marfan syndrome (MFS) has been explored in many clinical studies; however, their results have been inconsistent. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the difference in cardiac structure and function between Marfan patients and healthy individuals, and to verify the hypothesis of intrinsic cardiac impairment in MFS. METHODS Electronic searches for studies were performed in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases. Nine studies with 490 patients with MFS and 478 controls were included in the analysis. Age and sex were strictly matched between Marfan patients and healthy controls in every study. RESULTS There was no difference in the left ventricular end systolic diameter index (mean difference [MD]: 0.33; 95% confidence interval [CI]: (-0.24, 0.89); p = 0.26) and left ventricular end diastolic diameter index (MD: 0.18; 95% CI: [-0.47, 0.83]; p = 0.58) between Marfan patients and controls. Marfan patients showed larger left ventricular end systolic volume index (MD: 2.62; 95% CI: [0.27, 4.97]; p = 0.03) and left ventricular end diastolic volume index (MD: 4.16; 95% CI: [2.70, 5.63]; p

Methods. 82 SR (80.5% men; mean age 60.4±9.3; 45 (54.9%) with CAD) were divided according to period of LVESV maximum decrease: Gr.1 (n=19)- 24 months (59[43.0; 84.0]). Dynamics of echocardiography, adrenaline (ADR) plasma levels, norepinephrine (NE), interleukins (IL) 1β, 6, 10, TNF-α, NT-proBNP, MMP-9, TIMP-1, 4, were examined. Five-year survival was estimated by Kaplan-Meier method. ROC analysis and logistic regression were applied to identify late CRT response factors.Results. Initially, groups didn’t differ by clinical and echocardiographic findings. At baseline, Gr.2 had larger ADR (p=0.049) and NE (p=0.061). Rate of change in NE was opposite in groups during CRT: ΔNE increased in Gr.1 and decreased in Gr.2. (p=0.015), which was associated with better reverse cardiac remodeling (lower LV end systolic diameter, LV end diastolic diameter, LVESV, LV end diastolic volume), decrease in activity of immune inflammation (decrease in levels of IL-1β, 6, 10, TNF-α) and fibrosis formation (decrease in TIMP- 1, enhancement of MMP-9/TIMP-1). Cut-off value of 2.55 ng/ml for NE complied with the highest sensitivity (80%), specificity (60%), AUC=0.693 (p=0.011) for predicting late CRT response. Proportion of patients with NEConclusion. Late CRT response was accompanied by increased life expectancy, better 5-year survival, associated with greater reverse cardiac remodeling, decreased fibrosis activity, immune, neurohumoral, sympathoadrenal activation. When NE level was less than 2.55 ng/ml, probability of late response increased 8-fold.

To explore the effect of moxibustion at Shenque (CV 8) on myocardial structure and function in exercise-induced fatigue rats. A 12-week treadmill running training was performed to create an exercise-induced fatigue rat model. Sixty eligible male specific-pathogen-free grade Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into a blank group, a control group, a model group, a non-meridian non-acupoint group, a Zusanli (ST 36) group and a Shenque (CV 8) group, with 10 rats in each group. Rats in the blank group did not receive treadmill running training or moxibustion. Rats in the control group did not receive treadmill running training but received mild moxibustion at Shenque (CV 8). Rats in the model group received treadmill running training but no moxibustion. Rats in the non-meridian non-acupoint group, the Zusanli (ST 36) group and the Shenque (CV 8) group received moxibustion at the non-meridian non-acupoint points, Zusanli (ST 36) or Shenque (CV 8) immediately after each treadmill running training, 15 min each time, once a day for 5 consecutive days a week at a 2-day interval, 60 times of moxibustion in total. Left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDd), left ventricular end-systolic diameter (LVESd), left ventricular diastolic volume (LVDv), left ventricular systolic volume (LVSv), ejection fraction (EF), stroke volume (SV), early diastolic peak flow velocity of mitral valve (E) and late diastolic peak flow velocity of mitral valve (A) of each group before and after the last treadmill running training were measured. Blood was collected 6 h after the last treadmill running training, and serum C-reactive protein (CRP), myoglobin (Mb), creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB), cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) levels were detected. Finally, the heart was separated, the heart mass (HM) was measured, the cTnT level of the myocardial tissue was detected, the ultrastructural changes of the left ventricular myocardium were observed by transmission electron microscope, the left ventricular fraction shortening (LVFS), E/A and heart mass index (HMI) were calculated. Compared with the same group before treatment, the rat cardiac LVEDd, LVESd, LVDv, LVSv, SV, E and A were significantly increased (all P

This study presents a detailed profile of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), electrolytes, volume loading, blood pressure (BP), and total peripheral resistance in healthy young Black and White adults. We also explored longitudinal associations between BP and RAAS. We included normotensive Black (N=543) and White (N=573) adults (20–30 years) and followed N=324 over ≈4.5 years. We measured clinic (central, brachial) and 24-hour BP, total peripheral resistance and left ventricular dimensions. We determined serum NT-proBNP (N-terminal prohormone B-type natriuretic peptide), RAAS, and 24-hour urinary and serum Na + and K + . RAAS components, left ventricular internal diameter (diastole), end diastolic volume and NT-proBNP were lower ( P P P >0.05) only in quartile 1 of Na + /K + values. In both groups, RAAS was lower in the higher quartiles of 24-hour Na + and NT-proBNP (all P -trend≤0.014). Over 4.5 years, all BPs increased in the Black ( P P =0.038). We found that RAAS concentrations in healthy Black adults were half of those of White participants, which may not be explained by volume expansion. Yet, baseline aldosterone predicted BP elevation over time in Black adults. RAAS was similar in Black and White adults only at low Na + /K + scenarios, suggesting an essential role of potassium. Registration: URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov ; Unique identifier: NCT03292094.

Periodontal disease is commonly diagnosed in dogs and has been associated with systemic lesions in several organs, however, studies correlating this oral condition with heart disease in the canine species are still scarce in the scientific literature. Thus, the objective of the present study was to evaluate such correlation in adult dogs, through serial echocardiographic exams and, nonetheless, to analyze the influence of dental treatment on cardiac function. For this, 60 dogs were used, distributed in two groups, the control (CG, n = 30: presence of periodontal disease, not submitted to oral treatment) and the treated (GT, n = 30: presence of periodontal disease and submitted to oral treatment). The animals of the CG were paired with those of the GT in terms of race, weight, age and degree of periodontal disease. Baseline echocardiographic examinations (D0) of the CG were performed and after 30 days (D30). In GT, examinations were also performed at D0 and D30, however, they were submitted to periodontal treatment after baseline measurements. The echocardiographic exams were performed at the Veterinary Cardiology Laboratory of the Veterinary Hospital of the University of Franca, to record and analyze the interventricular septum in diastole (SIVd), interventricular septum in systole (SIVs), diameter of the left ventricle in diastole (DVEd), left ventricular diameter in systole (EVDs), left ventricular free wall in diastole (PVEd) left ventricular free wall in systole (PVEs) shortening fraction of left ventricle (FS), final diastolic volume (VDF), final stroke volume (VSF), ejection fraction (EF), maximum pulmonary artery pressure gradient (max. GP AP) and left atrial and aortic artery diameter ratio (EA-AO). The results of the CG were statistically compared with those of the GT by means of simple analysis of variance (ANOVA). The data obtained regarding the SIVs, DVEd and PVEs parameters of the GT dogs at D30 showed a statistically significant decrease (p

Objectives to evaluate laboratory and instrumental indicators, associated with decreased left ventricle ejection fraction in patients with heart failure of ischemic etiology. Material and methods. The observational study included 71 patient with coronary heart disease and chronic heart failure (CHF). All patients underwent the testing on the following parameters: uric acid concentration, C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), NT-proBNP, ST2 and cystatin C tests, glomerular filtration rate. Instrumental examination included transthoracic echocardiography and 6-minute walk test. Results. The study revealed several indicators, associated with decreased left ventricle ejection fraction less than 50% in patients with CHF: NT-proBNP level 822.2 pg/ml, ST2 38.61 ng/l, uric acid 419.9 mmol/l, hs-CRP 2.54 mg/l, end diastolic volume index 73.68 ml/m2, left ventricular mass index 127 g/m2, left ventricular contractility index 1.75, pulmonary artery pressure 29 mm Hg. and vena cava inferior diameter 20 mm.

Highlights. The geometry of the left atrium and the growth of the left heart after correction of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection are evaluated for the first time.Aim. To assess the morphological and functional characteristics of the left heart after correction of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection.Methods. 40 patients referred to the correction of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection were enrolled in a pilot, two-center, simple, blind, prospective randomized study. Patients were assigned to the sutureless repair group (n = 20) and conventional repair group (n = 20).Results. In the early postoperative period, the indexed left atrial volume in the group of sutureless repair was 15 (13.65; 17.25) versus 12.85 (10.95; 15.15) in the group of conventional repair, p = 0.057. The end diastolic volume index in the sutureless repair group was 38 (28.5; 45), while in the conventional repair group - 37.1 (31; 47.75), p = 0.48. At the follow-up, the indexed left atrial volume in the group of sutureless repair was 37 (34.5; 38.9) versus 31 (23.6; 35) in the group of conventional repair, p = 0.01. The end diastolic volume index (EDVI) in the group of sutureless repair was 50 (43; 57), while in the group of conventional repair - 50.2 (28.8; 60.9), p = 0.49.Conclusion. The growth of the left atrium depended on the chosen technique for correcting total anomalous pulmonary venous connection and was higher in the group of sutureless repair (37) compared to the group of conventional repair (31). The proportionality of the growth of the left ventricle did not depend on the surgical technique and was equivalent in both groups.

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the main cause of the occurrence and progression of heart failure, as well as mortality among the adult population, both in Russia and around the world. Determining the functional state of the myocardium before surgery allows one to choose the right treatment strategy, methods of surgical correction of coronary disorders, and predict outcomes.Aim. The research aims at the improvement of methods for predicting revascularization outcomes by creating a mathematical model depending on the number of viable myocardium.Material and methods. We examined 118 patients with a diagnosis of CHD who underwent surgical correction of coronary blood fl ow disorders with the use of direct and indirect revascularization methods at the Pirogov National Medical Center. We analyzed correlation between gated-SPECT, Echocardiography and operation results.Results. An inverse strong correlation has been found between LV contractility after surgery and the preoperative amount of scar myocardium and the end diastolic volume (EDV) LV (p < 0.05, Spearman criterion). A direct correlation has been determined between the improvement of EF and the volume of the hibernated myocardium (p < 0.05, Spearman criterion). There is a model for predicting EF after revascularization: Ejection fraction (after revascularization)(%) = 70.99126 − 0.10490 × EDV (ml) + 0.38827 × hibernated myocardium(%) − – 0,50137 × scar myocardium (%).Conclusion. Statistical modeling based on quantitative and qualitative assessment of the functional state of the myocardium in patients with CHD with the use of gated-SPECT and Echocardiography is an actual and necessary way to fi nd optimal solutions in the treatment and rehabilitation of patients with CHD.

Background In adult cardiomyopathy (CM), diffuse myocardial fibrosis is associated with adverse clinical outcome. However, its relevance in pediatric patients remains relatively unknown. The study aimed to evaluate myocardial extracellular volume (ECV) reflecting diffuse myocardial fibrosis with cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) T1 mapping, and to analyze correlations with clinical and functional data in children and adolescents with different CM phenotypes. Methods Patients with primary dilated (DCM), hypertrophic (HCM) or left ventricular non-compaction CM (LVNC) were prospectively enrolled and compared with healthy controls. Study participants underwent standardized CMR with modified Look-Locker Inversion recovery (MOLLI) T1 mapping. Results In total, 33 patients (median age 12.0 years; DCM: n = 10, HCM: n = 13; LVNC: n = 10) and 7 controls (14.5 years) were included. DCM: ECV was higher than in controls (38.1 ± 7.5% vs. 27.2 ± 3.6%; p = 0.014). Patients with elevated ECV were younger than those with normal values (p = 0.044). ECV correlated with N-terminal pro brain natriuretic peptide (r = 0.66, p = 0.038), left ventricular ejection fraction (r = −0.63, p = 0.053), and stroke volume of left (r = −0.75, p = 0.013) and right ventricle (r = −0.67, p = 0.033). During a median follow-up of 25.3 months, 3 patients underwent heart transplantation (HTx), and 2 were listed for HTx. All 5 patients had elevated ECV. HCM/LVNC: ECV was within normal range in HCM (25.5 ± 4.5%) and LVNC (29.6 ± 4.2), and was not related with clinical and/or functional parameters. Conclusions Our results indicate an increased burden of diffuse myocardial fibrosis in relation with younger age in pediatric DCM. ECV was associated with clinical and biventricular functional markers of heart failure in DCM.

2D speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) is superior to standard echocardiography in the assessment of subtle right ventricle (RV) systolic dysfunction. In this study we aimed to: 1) test the hypothesis that 2DSTE may unveil subtle RV systolic dysfunction in patients with Fabry disease; 2) investigate whether the physiologic difference between the 3-segment (RV-FWS) and the 6-segment (RV-GLS) RV strain (∆RV strain) is preserved in Fabry patients.Standard echocardiography and 2DSTE were performed in 49 Fabry patients and 49 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Fabry patients were divided in two groups according to the presence/absence of left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH+: left ventricular wall thickness 12 mm, 49% of total Fabry patients). RV systolic function assessed by standard echocardiography was normal in the majority of Fabry patients (92%) while RV-GLS and RV-FWS were impaired in about 40%. RV-GLS and RV-FWS were significantly worse in patients LVH+ vs LVH- and vs controls (RV-GLS: LVH+ vs LVH-: -18.4 ± -4.3% vs -23.8 ± -3.1% p0.001; LVH+ vs controls: -18.4 ± -4.3% vs -23.9 ± -2.8% p0.001; RV-FWS: LVH+ vs LVH-: -21.8 ± -5.3% vs -26.7 ± -3.8% p = 0.002, LVH+ vs controls -21.8 ± -5.3% vs -26.8 ± -3.9% p0.001). No difference was found between LVH- patients and controls in both RV-GLS (p = 0.65) and RV-FWS (p = 0.79). ∆RV strain was similar among the groups.In Fabry cardiomyopathy impaired RV-GLS and RV-FWS is a common finding, while RV strain is preserved in Fabry patients without overt cardiac involvement. The physiologic difference between RV-FWS and RV-GLS is maintained in Fabry patients, regardless of the presence of cardiomyopathy.

Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR) data regarding myocarditis presentation and disease course is still lacking in pediatric patients. We evaluate baseline CMR and evolution of functional and tissue abnormalities in children with acute myocarditis.CMR was performed in 125 patients with clinical diagnosis of acute myocarditis. Clinical follow-up was performed for a median of 498 (214-923) days.LVEF was depressed (55%) in 56 cases (45%) upon baseline CMR. LGE was found in 93 patients (77%) of cases. LGE was exclusively subepicardial in 29 patients (23%), while other LGE patterns (midwall/mixed) were present in 64 (51%). CMR was repeated in 92 (74%) patients. 67% presented recover of function at a median of 170 (70-746) days after onset of symptoms. Midwall/mixed LGE pattern had a statistically significant correlation with absent recover of function (OR 0.20 p 0.036). Thirteen patients (16%) had recovery from LV dysfunction but with persistence of LGE. Sub-epicardial pattern of LGE (OR 3.33, 95% CI 1.08-10.2, p = 0.036) and the presence of fever at admission (OR 4.67, 95% CI 1.16-18.7, p = 0.03) were associated with a significantly higher likelihood of complete normalization while midwall/mixed LGE pattern was associated with non-recovery.In pediatric myocarditis, midwall/mixed LGE pattern is associated with absent recover of function. Patients with recover of function may still have persistence of LGE, while a complete recovery from functional and tissue abnormalities is found only in a third of patients. Midwall/mixed pattern of LGE at first MRI was associated to worse outcome.

Objectives The Super Glenn procedure involves targeted increased in blood flow to left sided heart structures with fenestrated atrial septation. The objective of this study was to examine the outcomes of patients who had this procedure as a part of biventricular staging and specifically evaluate the effect on dimensions of left heart structures. Methods Data for patients who had this procedure between 2005 and 2019 were retrospectively identified. Results Thirty-seven patients were identified. Most common diagnosis was hypoplastic left heart syndrome in 40% (n = 15). On echocardiography, the median mitral valve z score was −2.26. On cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, median indexed left ventricular end-diastolic volume was 31.5 ml/m2 and mitral/tricuspid inflow ratio was 0.35. The median age at Super Glenn was 2.3 years (interquartile range 1.5–3.6) while median weight was 12 kg (interquartile range 9.8–14). There were no early/hospital deaths. The median intensive care unit length of stay was 4 days, and median hospital length of stay was 10 days. Median follow-up for the entire cohort was 3 years (range 15 days to 13.2 years). There was a statistically significant increase in indexed left ventricular dimensions. There were 5 deaths (14%). Three patients (8%) underwent heart transplant. Freedom from death/transplant was 79% at 5 years. Seven patients (19%) needed a reoperation. Twenty-three patients (62%) underwent biventricular conversion after a median of 11.3 months after Super Glenn. Conclusions The Super Glenn procedure achieves consistent increase in left ventricular dimensions. This may be a useful strategy to help achieve a successful biventricular circulation in patients with borderline left ventricle. The superiority/non-inferiority of this approach over the conventional Fontan pathway is unclear.

Introduction:Systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure is important in patients with single ventricle heart disease. Predictors of an elevated systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure prior to bidirectional Glenn operation have been incompletely identified.Methods:All patients who underwent bidirectional Glenn operation operation at our centre between January 2007 and March 2017 were retrospectively identified and patient variables were extracted. For patients who had undergone Fontan operation at the time of this study, post-Fontan patient variables were also extracted.Results:One-hundred patients were included with a median age at pre-bidirectional Glenn operation catheterisation of 4.5 months. In total, 71 (71%) patients had a systemic right ventricle. At the pre-bidirectional Glenn operation catheterisation, the mean systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure was higher amongst those with systemic right ventricle compared to left ventricle (9.1 mmHg ± 2.1 versus 7.7 ± 2.7 mmHg, p < 0.01). On univariate analysis, pre-bidirectional Glenn operation systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure was positively associated with the presence of a systemic right ventricle (p < 0.01), history of recoarctation (p = 0.03), history of Norwood operation (p = 0.04), and ventricular systolic pressure (p < 0.01). On multivariate analysis, systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure was positively associated with the presence of a systemic right ventricle (p < 0.01) and ventricular systolic pressure (p < 0.01). Amongst those who had undergone Fontan operation at the time of study (n = 49), those with a higher pre-bidirectional Glenn operation systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure were more likely to have experienced death, transplantation, or listed for transplantation (p = 0.02) and more likely to have had heart failure symptoms (p = 0.04) at a mean time from Fontan of 5.2 years ± 1.3.Conclusions:In patients undergoing bidirectional Glenn operation operation, the volume-loaded, pre-bidirectional Glenn operation state may expose diastolic dysfunction that has prognostic value.

This study evaluated the effects of mitral regurgitation (MR) on cardiac structure and function in left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) patients. The clinical and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) data for 182 patients with noncompaction or hypertrabeculation from three institutes were retrospectively included. We analyzed the difference in left ventricular geometry, cardiac function between LVNC patients with and without MR. The results showed that patients with MR had a worse New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and a higher incidence of arrhythmia (P

Our study aimed to comprehensively explore efficient prognostic indicators in idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDCM) patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF40%).Prognostic value of cardiac magnetic resonance(CMR) parameters for IDCM have been inconsistent.126 IDCM patients with reduced LVEF (40%) were retrospectively enrolled. Cardiac function parameters, myocardial strain indices and myocardial fibrosis were evaluated. Laboratory data also were analyzed. The endpoint was a combination of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs), including cardiac death, heart transplantation, and rehospitalization. Prognostic value was evaluated by the Kaplan-Meier method and Cox regression.During a median follow-up of 31 months, 44 patients experienced MACEs, including 9 deaths, 1 heart transplantation, and 34 rehospitalizations due to heart failure. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses showed that cardiac function and myocardial strain indexes were not associated with the prognosis of IDCM (all p0.05). NT-proBNP (HR 1.5, 95%CI: 1.053 to 2.137), Late‑gadolinium enhancement(LGE) mass (HR 1.022, 95%CI: 1.005 to 1.038), and LGE mass/left ventricle mass were significant predictors (HR 1.027, 95%CI: 1.007 to 1.046) for MACEs, all p 0.05. Besides, poorest prognosis was observed in IDCM patients with positive LGE combined with NT-proBNP (log-rank = 27.261, p ≤ 0.001).NT-proBNP and extent of LGE were reliable predictors in IDCM patients with reduced LVEF. Additionally, presence of LGE combined with NT-proBNP showed the strongest prognostic value in IDCM with reduced LVEF. Myocardial strain parameters seemed to have no prognostic value in IDCM patients with reduced LVEF.

Objective Various studies have shown racial differences in adult cardiac chamber measurements by echocardiography. There is lack of any large scale data from India regarding the echocardiographic chamber measurements in cardiologically healthy individuals. In this study we present the normal reference values of echocardiographic chamber dimensions in young eastern Indian adults and compare it with the data in present guidelines and recent studies involving Indian subjects. Methods This study was performed on 1377 healthy adults aged 18–35 years. Standard transthoracic echocardiographies were performed to obtain basic measurements. All measurements were indexed to body surface area. Results The mean maximal aortic valve cusp separation (ACS) and indexed ACS were significantly more in females (p = 0.002, p = 0.03). Mean left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF) and LV fractional shortening were marginally higher in females. Upper normal reference limit of LV end diastolic dimension (LVEdD) is slightly more for males. Comparing to ASE data, LVEdD, LV end systolic dimension, LV end diastolic volume, indexed LV end systolic volume, left atrial anteroposterior dimension, aortic root dimension and right ventricle outflow diameter were significantly lower in study population while LVEF was significantly higher (p Conclusion The study reconfirms that Indian subjects have smaller cardiac chamber measurements compared to western population where as LVEF is higher in the Indian population and also demonstrates the wide variation of normal echocardiographic measurements within Indian subcontinent. No previous data from eastern India makes this research a singular experience.

Background Left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis have prognostic implications in repaired tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF), but their relationship with myocardial strain is not well understood. We evaluated systolic strain and fibrosis (extracellular volume fraction, ECV) of the left ventricle (LV) using feature tracking with magnetic resonance and determine their association with each other and clinical outcome. Method Adults with rTOF and age-matched controls underwent CMR to measure LV-ECV. Feature-tracking was used to quantify radial, circumferential, and longitudinal strain in both 2 and 3 dimensions. Clinical events (death, arrhythmia and heart-failure hospitalization) were obtained through chart review. Associations between strain, ECV and clinical events were explored. Results 48 rTOF subjects (age 40.5 ± 14.3, 42% female) and 20 healthy controls were included. Both LV 2D and 3D global circumferential strain (GCS) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) were lower in rTOF subjects (p ≤0.01 for all). There was no association between strain and LV-ECV. Strain parameters correlated with ventricular volumes and function. After a median follow-up of 8.5 years (range 1–10.9 years) there were 5 deaths, 6 hospitalizations and 9 new arrhythmias. By multivariate Cox-regression, GLS was an independent predictor of both hospitalization and death, whereas LV-ECV was an independent predictor of arrhythmia. Conclusion While both LV strain abnormalities and fibrosis are present in rTOF, they are associated with different types of clinical outcome, and not to each other. The findings suggest that these measures reflect different long-term adverse adaptations to abnormal hemodynamics.

Background: Instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR)-guided physiological assessment has been shown to be non-inferior to fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided assessment for deciding best treatment strategy for angiographically intermediate stenosis. The diagnostic accuracy of iFR compared to FFR reported in various studies is around 80%. Many factors can lead to iFR/FFR discordance, though underlying physiological mechanism of discordance and its associated factors have not been fully evaluated. The effect of left ventricle end diastolic pressure (LVEDP) on iFR/FFR discordance is unknown and needs further evaluation. Methods: We performed a single center, non-randomized, both retrospective and prospective study. A total of 65 patients with intermediate coronary stenosis undergoing physiological assessment were included in the study. Patients were assigned to two groups (normal LVEDP and high LVEDP group) based on LVEDP cutoff of 15 mm Hg. iFR and FFR were measured for each patient and iFR/FFR results were compared between the two groups. Results: A significantly large number of patients in elevated LVEDP group had iFR/FFR discordance compared to normal LVEDP group (42.8% vs. 6.7%, P = 0.001). More patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) had discordance compared to stale coronary artery disease (CAD) patients (53% vs. 15%, P = 0.003). Conclusions: Elevated LVEDP can affect iFR and FFR measurements and can lead to discordance. Further studies are required to determine effect of elevated LVEDP on iFR/FFR discordance and whether such discordance is clinically relevant. “Normal range” iFR results should be cautiously interpreted in patients with elevated LVEDP, especially those with ACS. Cardiol Res. 2021;12(2):117-125 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/cr1230

Heart failure is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with ischemic heart disease being one of the most important etiologic factors. Heart failure develops due to ventricular remodeling, which leads to increases in left ventricular end-systolic and end-diastolic volumes. In this prospective observational study, we included 101 patients with first episode of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in whom percutaneous coronary intervention was conducted within 12 h and Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction III flow was achieved. The aim was to determine which clinical and biochemical parameters can help predict pathologic ventricular remodeling 1 year after myocardial infarction. We created a nomogram based on routinely used blood tests and vital parameters which showed highest correlation with pathologic ventricular remodeling. The nomogram included NTproBNP value 12 h after reperfusion, aspartate transaminase value 12 h after reperfusion, systolic blood pressure value on admission, and culprit coronary artery. We performed ROC analysis which yielded great predictive value of the nomogram. The area under curve was 0.907 (95% CI 0.842-0.973). The nomogram value of -3.54 had 91.4% sensitivity and 74.0% specificity. We believe that this nomogram, once validated, could offer a widely available, low-cost option that would help identify patients at risk of developing pathologic left ventricular remodeling and achieve this at a very early stage of myocardial infarction (12 h after reperfusion has been achieved)., Zatajivanje srca je vodeći uzrok pobola i smrtnosti u svijetu, a ishemijska bolest srca je njegov najvažniji etiološki čimbenik. Zatajivanje srca nastaje posljedično remodeliranju lijevog ventrikula, koje uzrokuje povećanje njegova volumena na kraju sistole i dijastole. U ovom prospektivnom opservacijskom istraživanju uključili smo 101 bolesnika koji su imali prvu epizodu STEMI i kojima je učinjena perkutana koronarna intervencija 12 sati od početka bolova uz postignuti protok TIMI III. Cilj istraživanja bio je utvrditi koji klinički i biokemijski parametri mogu pomoći u predviđanju nastupanja patološkog ventrikulskog remodeliranja godinu dana nakon preboljelog infarkta. Na temelju rezultata istraživanja stvoren je nomogram koji je uključivao vitalne parametre i rutinske biokemijske nalaze koji su pokazali najbolju korelaciju s pojavom patološkog ventrikulskog remodeliranja. Nomogram uključuje vrijednost NTproBNP-a 12 sati nakon postignute reperfuzije, vrijednost AST-a 12 sati nakon reperfuzije, vrijednost sistoličkog tlaka kod prijma te koronarnu arteriju okluzija koje je odgovorna za nastanak infarkta miokarda. Učinjena je ROC analiza koja je pokazala izvrsnu prediktivnu vrijednost nomograma. Površina ispod krivulje (AUC) je bila 0,907 (95% CI 0,842-0,973). Vrijednost nomograma od -3,54 imala je osjetljivost od 91,4% i specifičnost od 74,0%. Mišljenja smo da bi ovaj nomogram, jednom validiran, mogao ponuditi jeftinu i široko primjenjivu metodu za rano prepoznavanje bolesnika koji će razviti patološko ventrikulsko remodeliranje nakon preboljelog infarkta miokarda i to omogućiti već u vrlo ranoj fazi bolesti odnosno 12 sati nakon postignute reperfuzije.

Purpose. To study the therapeutic equivalence of the generic fixed combination of indapamide with perindopril (Perindopril plus, Severnaya Zvezda, Russia) in relation to the original drug in geriatric patients with hypertension (GB) and chronic heart failure (CHF). Material and methods. A study was conducted in 105 patients with GB and CHF (68.6 % of men with average age 80.3 ± 0.7 years), which evaluated the antihypertensive effect, the ability to correct heart failure, the presence of organ protection, the safety of both drugs. Results and discussion. When using a generic fixed combination, the achievement of the target value of office blood pressure was observed after a month of observation in all cases with stable maintenance by 6 months of the study; significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the level of home monitoring of systolic blood pressure (SBP) / diastolic blood pressure (DBP), after a month of research, by 26.1 % / 28.0 %, 6 months – by 26.8 % / 30.1 %; a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the average daily SBP / DBP after a month of observation by 28.1 % / 28.6 % (after 6 months by 29.7 % / 29.5 %), the average daily – after a month of observation by 27.2 % / 28.2 % (after 6 months by 28.4 % / 31.7 %), average nightly – after a month of observation by 22.4 % / 24.1 % (after 6 months by 24.3 % / 27.1 %); a reliable (p < 0.05) decrease after a month of monitoring the average daily pulse pressure by 27.9 % (average daily pulse pressure by 25.8 %, average nightly pulse pressure by 20.1 %), after 6 months by 30.4 %, 23.5 %, 20.3 % respectively; a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the carotid femoral pulse wave propagation velocity after a month by 17.9 %, after 6 months – by 26.8 %; after 6 months of observation, a reliable (p < 0.05) decrease in the final systolic volume of the left ventricle (LV) by 10.6 %, the final diastolic volume of the LV – by 7.5 %, the LV myocardial mass index – by 11.5 %, significant (p < 0.05) increase in LV ejection fraction by 2.9 %; significant (p < 0.05) decrease in FC of CHF by 20.7 % by the end of the study. According to the degree of change in these indicators, a generic fixed combination was comparable to the original drug. No side effects were observed in the comparison groups requiring discontinuation of treatment. Conclusions. The generic fixed combination of indapamide with perindopril (Perindopril plus, Severnaya Zvezda, Russia) has therapeutic equivalence with respect to the original drug.

BACKGROUND: Left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) on echocardiography is one of the tests performed on heart failure. This refers to the volume of the left ventricle at the end of the diastolic phase, which would be increased when there is a disturbance in preload, afterload, and contractility factors. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) is a marker of congestive heart failure that can be examined through laboratory examinations. AIM: The objective of the study was to provide evidence of the association between MMP and inflammatory process as well as its correlation with LVEDV in children with heart failure. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted on children aged 3 months–12 years old with heart failure, who visited Sanglah Hospital, Denpasar, Indonesia from May 2017 to March 2018. Echocardiographic examination (LVEDV) and blood samples were taken to measure the serum level of MMP2 on day 1 after the subjects were diagnosed with heart failure. RESULTS: A total of 32 subjects with heart failure were analyzed in this study. Acyanotic congenital heart defect (CHD) was the most common cause of heart failure, as observed in 23 subjects (71.9%). Characteristics data revealed that 24 subjects (75%) were underweight, 23 (71.9%) had cardiomegaly, and 22 (68.8%) had mild heart failure. Data analysis showed a moderate positive correlation between MMP2 levels with LVEDV after controlling for the influence of age (p = 0.02; r = 0.425). CONCLUSION: There was a moderate positive correlation between MMP2 level and LVEDV after controlling for the age factor.

Objective To investigate the association of left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV) and the response to cell therapy in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (NICM). Patients and Methods Five-year registry data from 133 consecutive patients with NICM who underwent CD34+ cell treatment were analyzed. All patients received granulocyte-colony stimulating factor; CD34+ cells were collected by apheresis and delivered by transendocardial injections. Patients with baseline LVEDV less than 200 mL (group A; n=72) and patients with LVEDV 200 to 370 mL (group B; n=54) were included. Patients with LVEDV greater than 370 mL were excluded (n=7). Favorable ejection fraction response was pre-defined by improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) greater than or equal to 5% at 1 y post-cell therapy. Results At baseline, groups A and B were comparable with regards to age (52±11 y in group A vs 53±10 y in group B; P=.95), sex (male: 79% vs 83%, respectively; P=.55), creatinine (1.07±0.28 mg/dL vs 1.03±0.21 mg/dL, respectively; P=.21), or N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (1454±1658 pg/mL vs 1589±1338 pg/mL, respectively; P=.80). Baseline LVEF was higher in group A (32.8±8.7%) than in group B (30.2±8.7%; P=.03). During follow-up, there were four deaths in group A (5.6%), and 2 in group B (3.7%, P=.63). At 1-year post-cell therapy, LVEDV decreased significantly in group B (-56±30 mL; P=.003), but not in group A (+12±97 mL; P=.13). On multivariate analysis, baseline LVEDV was an independent correlate of favorable response in LVEF to therapy (P=.02). Conclusion Larger LVEDV was associated with more pronounced increase in LVEF after transendocardial CD34+ cell therapy in NICM patients, informing target individuals with the highest likelihood of regenerative response. Trial Registration clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT02445534

BACKGROUND Regular aerobic exercise can induce alterations in structural and hemodynamic physiology of the heart in both athletic and nonathletic populations. This is because due to cardiac adaptation to exercise improves cardiac workout capacity by increasing left ventricular function. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of aerobic exercise on blood pressure and left ventricular structural and myocardial function in Ethiopian non-athletic males. METHODS Twenty male adults (aged 19-23 years) were recruited and they were engaged in aerobic exercise training for 3 months (3days/week, 50-75%MHR). Selected participants underwent standard transthoracic doppler echocardiographic examinations before and after intervention of the exercise training. Collected data were analyzed through Paired Sample T test using IBM SPSS version 21 statistical software with significance level set at p

Purpose This study investigated the effect of ischemic preconditioning (IP) on metaboreflex activation following dynamic leg extension exercise in a group of healthy participants. Method Seventeen healthy participants were recruited. IP and SHAM treatments (3 × 5 min cuff occlusion at 220 mmHg or 20 mmHg, respectively) were administered in a randomized order to the upper part of exercising leg’s thigh only. Muscle pain intensity (MP) and pain pressure threshold (PPT) were monitored while administrating IP and SHAM treatments. After 3 min of leg extension exercise at 70% of the maximal workload, a post-exercise muscle ischemia (PEMI) was performed to monitor the discharge group III/IV muscle afferents via metaboreflex activation. Hemodynamics were continuously recorded. MP was monitored during exercise and PEMI. Results IP significantly reduced mean arterial pressure compared to SHAM during metaboreflex activation (mean ± SD, 109.52 ± 7.25 vs. 102.36 ± 7.89 mmHg) which was probably the consequence of a reduced end diastolic volume (mean ± SD, 113.09 ± 14.25 vs. 102.42 ± 9.38 ml). MP was significantly higher during the IP compared to SHAM treatment, while no significant differences in PPT were found. MP did not change during exercise, but it was significantly lower during the PEMI following IP (5.10 ± 1.29 vs. 4.00 ± 1.54). Conclusion Our study demonstrated that IP reduces hemodynamic response during metaboreflex activation, while no effect on MP and PPT were found. The reduction in hemodynamic response was likely the consequence of a blunted venous return.