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Mohit K Turagam, Poonam Velagapudi, Greg C FlakerDivision of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Missouri School of Medicine, Columbia, MO, USAAbstract: Stroke prevention in elderly atrial fibrillation patients remains a challenge. There is a high risk of stroke and systemic thromboembolism but also a high risk of bleeding if anticoagulants are prescribed. The elderly have increased chronic kidney disease, coronary artery disease, polypharmacy, and overall frailty. For all these reasons, anticoagulant use is underutilized in the elderly. In this manuscript, the benefits of non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants compared with warfarin in the elderly patient population with multiple comorbid conditions are reviewed.Keywords: non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants, novel oral anticoagulants, warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, apixaban, edoxaban

Background: Traditional right atrial appendage (RAA) pacing accentuates conduction disturbances as opposed to Bachmann bundle pacing (BBP)., Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of routine anatomically guided high right atrial septal (HRAS) pacing with activation of Bachmann bundle combined with routine left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP)., Methods: This retrospective single-center study included 96 consecutive patients who underwent 1 of 2 strategies: physiological pacing (PP) (n = 32) with HRAS and LBBAP leads and conventional pacing (CP) (n = 64) with traditional RAA and right ventricular apical leads. Baseline characteristics, sensing, pacing thresholds, and impedances were recorded at implantation and follow-up., Results: The PP and CP cohorts were of similar age (74.2 ± 13.8 years vs 73.9 ± 9.9 years) and sex (28.1% vs 40.6% female). There were no differences in procedural time (95.0 ± 31.4 minutes vs 86.5 ± 33.3 minutes; P = .19) or fluoroscopy time (12.1 ± 4.5 minutes vs 12.3 ± 13.5 minutes; P = .89) between cohorts. After excluding patients who received >2 leads, these parameters became significantly shorter in the CP cohort. The PP cohort exhibited higher atrial pacing thresholds (1.5 ± 1.1 mV vs 0.8 ± 0.3 mV; P <.001) and lower p waves (1.8 ± 0.8 mV vs 3.8 ± 2.3 mV; P <.001) at implantation and at follow-up. In the PP cohort, 72% of implants met criteria for BBP; of the ventricular leads, 94% demonstrated evidence of LBBAP. One lead-related complication occurred in each cohort., Conclusion: Routine placement of leads in the HRAS is a feasible and safe alternative to standard RAA pacing, allowing for BBP in 72% of patients. HRAS pacing can be combined with LBBAP as a routine strategy., (© 2024 Heart Rhythm Society. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Aims: Pulsed field ablation (PFA) has significant advantages over conventional thermal ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). This first-in-human, single-arm trial to treat paroxysmal AF (PAF) assessed the efficiency, safety, pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) durability and one-year clinical effectiveness of an 8 Fr, large-lattice, conformable single-shot PFA catheter together with a dedicated electroanatomical mapping system., Methods and Results: After rendering the PV anatomy, the PFA catheter delivered monopolar, biphasic pulse trains (5-6 s per application; ∼4 applications per PV). Three waveforms were tested: PULSE1, PULSE2, and PULSE3. Follow-up included ECGs, Holters at 6 and 12 months, and symptomatic and scheduled transtelephonic monitoring. The primary and secondary efficacy endpoints were acute PVI and post-blanking atrial arrhythmia recurrence, respectively. Invasive remapping was conducted ∼75 days post-ablation. At three centres, PVI was performed by five operators in 85 patients using PULSE1 (n = 30), PULSE2 (n = 20), and PULSE3 (n = 35). Acute PVI was achieved in 100% of PVs using 3.9 ± 1.4 PFA applications per PV. Overall procedure, transpired ablation, PFA catheter dwell and fluoroscopy times were 56.5 ± 21.6, 10.0 ± 6.0, 19.1 ± 9.3, and 5.7 ± 3.9 min, respectively. No pre-defined primary safety events occurred. Upon remapping, PVI durability was 90% and 99% on a per-vein basis for the total and PULSE3 cohort, respectively. The Kaplan-Meier estimate of one-year freedom from atrial arrhythmias was 81.8% (95% CI 70.2-89.2%) for the total, and 100% (95% CI 80.6-100%) for the PULSE3 cohort., Conclusion: Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) utilizing a conformable single-shot PFA catheter to treat PAF was efficient, safe, and effective, with durable lesions demonstrated upon remapping., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Background: Premature ventricular complexes (PVCs) are prevalent and, although often benign, they may lead to PVC-induced cardiomyopathy. We created a deep-learning algorithm to predict left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) reduction in patients with PVCs from a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG)., Objectives: This study aims to assess a deep-learning model to predict cardiomyopathy among patients with PVCs., Methods: We used electronic medical records from 5 hospitals and identified ECGs from adults with documented PVCs. Internal training and testing were performed at one hospital. External validation was performed with the others. The primary outcome was first diagnosis of LVEF ≤40% within 6 months. The dataset included 383,514 ECGs, of which 14,241 remained for analysis. We analyzed area under the receiver operating curves and explainability plots for representative patients, algorithm prediction, PVC burden, and demographics in a multivariable Cox model to assess independent predictors for cardiomyopathy., Results: Among the 14,241-patient cohort (age 67.6 ± 14.8 years; female 43.8%; White 29.5%, Black 8.6%, Hispanic 6.5%, Asian 2.2%), 22.9% experienced reductions in LVEF to ≤40% within 6 months. The model predicted reductions in LVEF to ≤40% with area under the receiver operating curve of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.77-0.81). The gradient weighted class activation map explainability framework highlighted the sinus rhythm QRS complex-ST segment. In patients who underwent successful PVC ablation there was a post-ablation improvement in LVEF with resolution of cardiomyopathy in most (89%) patients., Conclusions: Deep-learning on the 12-lead ECG alone can accurately predict new-onset cardiomyopathy in patients with PVCs independent of PVC burden. Model prediction performed well across sex and race, relying on the QRS complex/ST-segment in sinus rhythm, not PVC morphology., Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures Dr Lampert has served as a consultant for Viz.AI. Dr Reddy has served as a consultant for and has equity in Ablacon, Acutus Medical, Affera-Medtronic, Anumana, Apama Medical-Boston Scientific, APN Health, Aquaheart, Atacor, Autonomix, Axon Therapies, Backbeat, BioSig, CardiaCare, CardioNXT/AFTx, Circa Scientific, CoRISMA, Corvia Medical, Dinova-Hangzhou DiNovA EP Technology, East End Medical, EPD-Philips, EP Frontiers, Epix Therapeutics-Medtronic, EpiEP, Eximo, Farapulse-Boston Scientific, Field Medical, Focused Therapeutics, HRT, Intershunt, Javelin, Kardium, Keystone Heart, LuxMed, Medlumics, Middlepeak, Neutrace, Nuvera-Biosense Webster, Oracle Health, Restore Medical, Sirona Medical, SoundCath, Valcare unrelated to this work; has served as a consultant for Abbott, AtriAN, Biosense-Webster, BioTel Heart, Biotronik, Boston Scientific, Cairdac, Cardiofocus, Cardionomic, CoreMap, Fire1, Gore & Associates, Impulse Dynamics, Medtronic, Novartis, Philips, and Pulse Biosciences; and has equity in Manual Surgical Sciences, Newpace, Nyra Medical, Surecor, and Vizaramed. Dr Nadkarni reports consultancy agreements with AstraZeneca, BioVie, GLG Consulting, Pensieve Health, Reata, Renalytix, Siemens Healthineers and Variant Bio; has received research funding from Goldfinch Bio, and Renalytix; has received honoraria from AstraZeneca, BioVie, Lexicon, Daiichi Sankyo, Meanrini Health, and Reata; has patents or royalties with Renalytix; owns equity and stock options in Pensieve Health and Renalytix as a scientific cofounder; owns equity in Verici Dx; has received financial compensation as a scientific board member and advisor to Renalytix; has served on the advisory board of Neurona Health; and has served in an advisory or leadership role for Pensieve Health and Renalytix. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2023 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Interatrial block (IAB) is associated with thromboembolism and atrial arrhythmias. However, prior studies included small patient cohorts so it remains unclear whether IAB predicts adverse outcomes particularly in context of atrial fibrillation (AF)/atrial flutter (AFL)., Objectives: This study sought to determine whether IAB portends increased stroke risk in a large cohort in the presence or absence of AFAF/AFL., Methods: We performed a 5-center retrospective analysis of 4,837,989 electrocardiograms (ECGs) from 1,228,291 patients. IAB was defined as P-wave duration ≥120 ms in leads II, III, or aVF. Measurements were extracted as .XML files. After excluding patients with prior AF/AFL, 1,825,958 ECGs from 458,994 patients remained. Outcomes were analyzed using restricted mean survival time analysis and restricted mean time lost., Results: There were 86,317 patients with IAB and 355,032 patients without IAB. IAB prevalence in the cohort was 19.6% and was most common in Black (26.1%), White (20.9%), and Hispanic (18.5%) patients and least prevalent in Native Americans (9.2%). IAB was independently associated with increased stroke probability (restricted mean time lost ratio coefficient [RMTLRC]: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.35-1.51; tau = 1,895), mortality (RMTLRC: 1.14; 95% CI: 1.07-1.21; tau = 1,924), heart failure (RMTLRC: 1.94; 95% CI: 1.83-2.04; tau = 1,921), systemic thromboembolism (RMTLRC: 1.62; 95% CI: 1.53-1.71; tau = 1,897), and incident AF/AFL (RMTLRC: 1.16; 95% CI: 1.10-1.22; tau = 1,888). IAB was not associated with stroke in patients with pre-existing AF/AFL., Conclusions: IAB is independently associated with stroke in patients with no history of AF/AFL even after adjustment for incident AF/AFL and CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score. Patients are at increased risk of stroke even when AF/AFL is not identified., Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures This project was internally funded. Dr Reddy has served as a consultant to Kardium Inc (including Equity); is a consultant to Abbott, Ablacon, Acutus Medical, Affera-Medtronic, Apama Medical-Boston Scientific, APN Health, Aquaheart, Atacor, AtiAN, Autonomix, Axon Therapies, Backbeat, BioSig, Biosense-Webster, BioTel Heart, Biotronik, Boston Scientific, Cairdac, CardiaCare, Cardiofocus, Cardionomic, CardioNXT / AFTx, Circa Scientific, CoreMap, CoRISMA, Corvia Medical, Dinova-Hangzhou DiNovA EP Technology, East End Medical, EBR, EPD-Philips, EP Frontiers, Epix Therapeutics, EpiEP, Eximo, Farapulse-Boston Scientific, Fire1, Focused Therapeutics, Gore & Associates, HRT, Impulse Dynamics, Intershunt, Javelin, Keystone Heart, LuxMed, Medlumics, Medtronic, Middlepeak, Neutrace, Nuvera-Biosense Webster, Oracle Health, Philips, Pulse Biosciences, Restore Medical, Sirona Medical, SoundCath, and Valcare; and has equity from Ablacon, Acutus Medical, Affera-Medtronic, Apama Medical-Boston Scientific, APN Health, Aquaheart, Atacor, Autonomix, Axon Therapies, Backbeat, BioSig, CardiaCare, CardioNXT / AFTx, Circa Scientific, CoRISMA, Corvia Medical, Dinova-Hangzhou DiNovA EP Technology, East End Medical, EPD-Philips, EP Frontiers, Epix Therapeutics, EpiEP, Eximo, Farapulse-Boston Scientific, Focused Therapeutics, HRT, Intershunt, Javelin, Keystone Heart, LuxMed, Manual Surgical Sciences, Medlumics, Middlepeak, Neutrace, Newpace, Nuvera-Biosense Webster, Nyra Medical, Oracle Health, Restore Medical, Sirona Medical, SoundCath, Surecor, Valcare, and Vizaramed. Dr Fuster serves as the Editor-in-Chief of JACC. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2023 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Incomplete left atrial appendage (LAA) closure is an evolving topic of clinical significance and thromboembolic potential, with recent long-term studies suggesting lower cutoffs for relevant leak size., Objectives: The aim of this prospective observational study was to assess 3 different closure techniques for persistent peridevice leaks after incomplete LAA closure and compare their efficacy and safety outcomes., Methods: We studied 160 patients (mean age 72 ± 9 years; 71% men) who underwent 1 of the 3 available modalities (detachable embolization coils, vascular plugs or septal occluders, and radiofrequency ablation) for residual central or eccentric leak closure. Both acute postprocedural success (closure or <1-mm leak at the end of the procedure) and closure at 1-year follow-up transesophageal echocardiography imaging were evaluated., Results: Of 160 patients, 0.6%, 41.3%, and 58.1% had mild (1-2 mm), moderate (3-5 mm), and severe (≥5 mm) leaks, respectively. Baseline LAA closure type was 72.5% Watchman FLX, 16.3% Lariat, 5.6% surgical ligation, 1.9% AtriClip, and 1.9% Amulet. Successful closure (0- or <1-mm leak) was seen in 100% of patients in all cohorts following intervention, with overall complete closure (0-1 mm) or mild or minimal leaks (1-2 mm) on 1-year follow-up transesophageal echocardiography seen in 100% of the atrial septal occluder or vascular plug cohort, 85.9% of the coil cohort, and 83.3% of the radiofrequency ablation cohort (P < 0.001). Two patients (1.3%) experienced cardiac tamponade, and there were no deaths or other complications., Conclusions: Peridevice leaks can safely and effectively be closed using 3 different modalities depending on size and location., Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures Dr Garg is a consultant to Biosense Webster. Dr Pothineni is a consultant to Boston Scientific. Dr DiBiase is a consultant to Biosense Webster, Abbott, Atricure, Boston Scientific, Medtronic, and Biotronik. Dr Turagam is a consultant to Biosense Webster and Boston Scientific. Dr Gopinathannair is a consultant to Biotronik, Boston Scientific, and Abbott. Dr Horton is a consultant to Abbott, Biosense Webster, Biotronick. Dr Kar is a consultant to Boston Scientific, and Edwards. Dr Fontana is a consultant to Boston Scientific, Abbott, Atricure, and Edwards. Dr Doshi is a consultant to Biosense Webster, Abbott, Atricure, Boston Scientific, Medtronic, and Biotronik. Dr Swarup is a consultant to Biosense Webster, Abbott, Atricure, Boston Scientific, Medtronic, and Biotronik. Dr Finn is a consultant to Boston Scientific and Abbott. Dr Reddy is a consultant to Biosense Webster, Abbott, Atricure, Boston Scientific, and Medtronic. Dr Natale is a consultant to Biosense Webster, Abbott, Atricure, Boston Scientific, Medtronic, and Biotronik. Dr Lakkireddy is a consultant to Biosense Webster, Abbott, Atricure, Boston Scientific, and Medtronic. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2022 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction reduces mortality secondary to malignant arrhythmias. Whether end-stage heart failure (HF) with continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (cf-LVAD) derive similar benefits remains controversial., Methods: We performed a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of all published studies that examined the association between active ICDs and survival in advanced HF patients with cfLVAD. We searched PubMed, Medline, Embase, Ovid, and Cochrane for studies reporting the association between ICD and all-cause mortality in advanced HF patients with cfLVAD. Mantel-Haenszel risk ratio (RR) random-effects model was used to summarize data., Results: Ten studies (9 retrospective and one prospective) with a total of 7,091 patients met inclusion criteria. There was no difference in all-cause mortality (RR 0.84, 95% CI 0.65-1.10, p=0.20, I 2 =62.40%), likelihood of survival to transplant (RR 1.07, 95% CI 0.98-1.17, p= 0.13, I 2 =0%), RV failure (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.44-1.25, p = 0.26, I 2 =34%) between Active ICD and inactive/no ICD groups, respectively. Additionally, 27.5% received appropriate ICD shocks, while 9.5% received inappropriate ICD shocks. No significant difference was observed in terms of any complications between the two groups., Conclusions: All-cause mortality, the likelihood of survival to transplant, and worsening RV failure were not significantly different between active ICD and inactive/no ICD in cf-LVAD recipients. A substantial number of patients received appropriate ICD shocks suggesting a high-arrhythmia burden. The risks and benefits of ICDs must be carefully considered in patients with cf-LVAD.

Background: Smartphone technologies have been recently developed to assess heart rate and rhythm, but their role in accurately detecting atrial fibrillation (AF) remains unknown., Objective: We sought to perform a meta-analysis using prospective studies comparing Smartwatch technology with current monitoring standards for AF detection (ECG, Holter, Patch Monitor, ILR)., Methods: We performed a comprehensive literature search for prospective studies comparing Smartwatch technology simultaneously with current monitoring standards (ECG, Holter, and Patch monitor) for AF detection since inception to November 25th, 2019. The outcome studied was the accuracy of AF detection. Accuracy was determined with concomitant usage of ECG monitoring, Holter monitoring, loop recorder, or patch monitoring., Results: A total of 9 observational studies were included comparing smartwatch technology, 3 using single-lead ECG monitoring, and six studies using photoplethysmography with routine AF monitoring strategies. A total of 1559 patients were enrolled (mean age 63.5 years, 39.5% had an AF history). The mean monitoring time was 75.6 days. Smartwatch was non-inferior to composite ECG monitoring strategies (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.93 - 1.21, p=0.37), composite 12 lead ECG/Holter monitoring (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.62 - 1.30, p=0.57) and patch monitoring (OR 1.28, 95% CI 0.84 - 1.94, p=0.24) for AF detection. The sensitivity and specificity for AF detection using a smartwatch was 95% and 94%, respectively., Conclusions: Smartwatch based single-lead ECG and photoplethysmography appear to be reasonable alternatives for AF monitoring.

Background: Left atrial appendage occlusion device embolization (LAAODE) is rare but can have substantial implications on patient morbidity and mortality. Hence, we sought to perform an analysis to understand the timing and clinical consequences of LAAODE., Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed and Web of Science databases for LAAODE cases was performed from October 2nd, 2014 to November 1st, 2017. Prior to that, we included published LAAODE cases until October 1st, 2014 reported in the systematic review by Aminian et al., Results: 103 LAAODE cases including Amplatzer cardiac plug (N=59), Watchman (N=31), Amulet (N=11), LAmbre (N=1) and Watchman FLX (N=1) were included. The estimated incidence of device embolization was 2% (103/5,000). LAAODE occurred more commonly in the postoperative period compared with intraoperative (61% vs. 39%). The most common location for embolization was the descending aorta 30% (31/103) and left atrium 24% (25/103) followed by left ventricle 20% (21/103). Majority of cases 75% (77/103) were retrieved percutaneously. Surgical retrieval occurred most commonly for devices embolized to the left ventricle, mitral apparatus and descending aorta. Major complications were significantly higher with postoperative LAAODE compared with intraoperative (44.4% vs. 22.5%, p=0.03)., Conclusions: LAAODE is common with a reported incidence of 2% in our study. Post-operative device embolization occurred more frequently and was associated with a higher rate of complications than intraoperative device embolizations. Understanding the timings and clinical sequelae of DE can aid physicians with post procedural follow-up and also in the selection of patients for these procedures.

Introduction: Whether cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) continues to augment left ventricular remodeling in patients with the continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (cf-LVAD) remains unclear., Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of all clinical studies examining the role of continued CRT in end-stage heart failure patients with cf-LVAD reporting all-cause mortality, ventricular arrhythmias, and ICD shocks. Mantel-Haenszel risk ratio (RR) random-effects model was used to summarize data., Results: Eight studies (7 retrospective and 1 randomized) with a total of 1,208 unique patients met inclusion criteria. There was no difference in all-cause mortality (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.86 - 1.35, p = 0.51, I2=0%), all-cause hospitalization (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.76-1.34, p = 0.95, I 2 =11%), ventricular arrhythmias (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.83 - 1.39, p = 0.58, I 2 =50%) and ICD shocks (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.57 - 1.33, p = 0.52, I 2 =65%) comparing CRT versus non-CRT. Subgroup analysis demonstrated significant reduction in ventricular arrhythmias (RR 0.76, 95% CI 0.64 - 0.90, p = 0.001) and ICD shocks (RR 0.65, 95% CI 0.44 - 0.97, p = 0.04) in "CRT on" group versus "CRT off" group., Conclusions: CRT was not associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality or increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias and ICD shocks compared to non-CRT in cf-LVAD patients. It remains to be determined which subgroup of cf-LVAD patients benefit from CRT. The findings of our study are intriguing, and therefore, larger studies in a randomized prospective manner should be undertaken to address this specifically.

Aims: Catheter ablation is an effective strategy for drug-refractory ventricular tachycardia (VT) in ischemic cardiomyopathy. We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of outcomes of prophylactic catheter ablation (PCA) of Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) in ischemic cardiomyopathy patients., Methods: We performed a comprehensive literature search through February 10, 2020, for all eligible randomized controlled trials that compared "PCA" versus "No PCA" for VT. Primary efficacy outcomes included - appropriate ICD therapy (composite of anti-tachycardia pacing and ICD shock), appropriate ICD shocks, electrical storm, cardiac mortality, and all-cause mortality. The primary safety outcome was any adverse events., Results: Four randomized controlled trials (N = 505) met inclusion criteria. Prophylactic catheter ablation was associated significant reduction in appropriate ICD therapies (RR 0.70; 95% CI 0.55 - 0.89, p = 0.004), appropriate ICD shocks (RR 0.57 95% CI 0.40 - 0.80, p = 0.001) with a trend towards reduced risk of electrical storm (RR 0.64; CI 0.39 - 1.05; p = 0.075) compared to "No PCA". There was no significant difference in cardiac mortality (RR 0.66, 95% CI 0.31 - 1.43, p = 0.29) and all-cause mortality (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.52 - 1.82, p = 0.94) with similar adverse events (RR 1.46, 95% CI 0.73 - 2.95, p = 0.29) between two groups., Conclusions: Prophylactic catheter ablation in ischemic cardiomyopathy patients was associated with a lower risk of ICD therapies, including ICD shocks and VT storm with no difference in cardiac and all-cause mortality.

With the expanding integration of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practices in conjunction with modern medicine, yoga has quickly risen to being one of the most common CAM practices across the world. Despite widespread use of yoga, limited studies are available, particularly in the setting of dysrhythmia. Preliminary studies demonstrate promising results from integration of yoga as an adjunct to medical therapy for management of dysrhythmias. In this review, we discuss the role of autonomic nervous system in cardiac arrhythmia,interaction of yoga with autonomic tone and its subsequent impact on these disease states. The role of yoga in specific disease states, and potential future direction for studies assessing the role of yoga in dysrhythmia.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic that is wreaking havoc on the health and economy of much of human civilization. Electrophysiologists have been impacted personally and professionally by this global catastrophe. In this joint article from representatives of the Heart Rhythm Society, the American College of Cardiology, and the American Heart Association, we identify the potential risks of exposure to patients, allied healthcare staff, industry representatives, and hospital administrators. We also describe the impact of COVID-19 on cardiac arrhythmias and methods of triage based on acuity and patient comorbidities. We provide guidance for managing invasive and noninvasive electrophysiology procedures, clinic visits, and cardiac device interrogations. In addition, we discuss resource conservation and the role of telemedicine in remote patient care along with management strategies for affected patients.

Background: Several randomized trials have evaluated the efficacy of prophylactic magnesium (Mg) supplementation in prevention of post-operative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing cardiac artery bypass grafting (CABG). We aimed to determine the role of prophylactic Mg in 3 different settings (intraoperative, postoperative, intraoperative plus postoperative) in prevention of POAF., Methods: A systemic literature search was performed (until January 19, 2019) using PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials to identify trials evaluating Mg supplementation post CABG. Primary outcome of our study was reduction in POAF post CABG., Results: We included a total of 2,430 participants (1,196 in the Mg group and 1,234 in the placebo group) enrolled in 20 randomized controlled trials. Pooled analysis demonstrated no reduction in POAF between the two groups (RR 0.90; 95% CI, 0.79-1.03; p=0.13; I2=42.9%). In subgroup analysis, significant reduction in POAF was observed with postoperative Mg supplementation (RR 0.76; 95% CI, 0.58-0.99; p=0.04; I2=17.6%) but not with intraoperative or intraoperative plus postoperative Mg supplementation (RR 0.77; 95% CI, 0.49-1.22; p = 0.27; I2=49% and RR 0.92; 95% CI, 0.68-1.24; p = 0.58; I2=51.8%, respectively)., Conclusions: Magnesium supplementation, especially in the postoperative period, is an effective strategy in reducing POAF following CABG.

There is an increasing awareness of the association between mitral valve prolapse and sudden cardiac death. There are several clinical risk factors associated with an increased risk of mitral valve prolapse-related sudden cardiac death, most of which can be evaluated with noninvasive diagnostic modalities. For example, characteristic changes on the electrocardiogram (T-wave inversions in the inferior leads), complex ventricular ectopy, a spiked configuration of the lateral annular velocities by echocardiography, and evidence of myocardial fibrosis by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging have all been implicated as markers of risk. Herein, the authors review the reported incidence of sudden death to mitral valve prolapse, the clinical profile of at-risk patients, and the basic components necessary to initiate and perpetuate ventricular arrhythmias (substrate and trigger) as well as potential interventions to consider for those at highest risk., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Background: The impact of left atrial appendage (LAA) exclusion, comparing an epicardial LAA or an endocardial LAA device, on systemic homeostasis remains unknown., Objectives: This study compared the effects of epicardial or endocardial LAA devices on the neurohormonal profiles of patients, emphasizing the roles of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the autonomic nervous system., Methods: This is a prospective, single-center, observational study including 77 patients who underwent LAA closure by an epicardial (n = 38) or endocardial (n = 39) device. Key hormones involved in the adrenergic system (adrenaline, noradrenaline), renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (aldosterone, renin), metabolic system (adiponectin, free fatty acids, insulin, β-hydroxybutyrate, and free glycerols), and natriuresis (atrial and B-type natriuretic peptides) were assessed immediately before the procedure, immediately after device deployment, at 24 h, and at 3 months follow-up., Results: In the endocardial LAA device group, when compared with baseline blood adrenaline, noradrenaline and aldosterone were significantly lower at 24 h and 3 months (p < 0.05). There was no significant change in levels post-endocardial LAA device implantation. After epicardial LAA device implantation, there were significant increases in adiponectin and insulin, with decreased free fatty acids at 3 months. There was no significant change in these levels post-endocardial LAA device. N-terminal pro-A-type natriuretic peptide and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide were significantly decreased in the acute phase after epicardial LAA device implantation, which subsequently normalized at 3 months. Post endocardial LAA device implantation, the levels increased immediately and normalized after 24 h. Systemic blood pressure was also significantly lower at all time points after epicardial LAA device implantation, which was not seen post-endocardial LAA device implantation., Conclusions: There are substantial differences in hemodynamics and neurohormonal effects of LAA exclusion with epicardial and endocardial devices. Further studies are required to elucidate the underlying mechanism of these physiological changes., (Copyright © 2018 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Restoration of normal sinus rhythm by radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients can result in a reduction of left atrial (LA) volume and pulmonary vein (PV) dimensions. It is not clear if this PV size reduction represents a secondary effect of overall LA volume reduction or true PV stenosis. We assessed the relationship between LA volume reduction and PV orifice area pre- and post-RFA., Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care academic hospital. Pre- and post-RFA cardiac computed tomography (CT) studies of 100 consecutive AF patients were reviewed. Studies identifying obvious segmental PV narrowing were excluded. Left atrial volumes and PV orifice cross-sectional areas (PVOCA) were measured using proprietary software from the CT scanner vendor (GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI)., Results: The cohort had a mean age of 60 ± 8 years, 73% were male, and 90% were Caucasian. Non-paroxysmal AF was present in 76% of patients with a mean duration from diagnosis to RFA of 55 ± 54 months. Mean procedural time was 244 ± 70 min. AF recurred in 27% at 3 month follow-up. Pre-RFA LA volumes were 132 ± 60 ml and mean PVOCA was 2.89 ± 2.32 cm 2 . In patients with successful ablation, mean LA volume decreased by 10% and PVOCA decreased by 21%. PVOCA was significantly reduced in patients with successful RFA compared to those who had recurrence (2.18 ± 1.12 vs. 2.8 ± 1.9 cm 2 , p = 0.04) but reduction in LA volume between groups was not significant (118 ± 42 vs. 133 ± 54 ml, p=0.15)., Conclusions: The study demonstrates that both PV orifice dimensions and LA volume are reduced after successful AF ablation. These data warrant a reassessment of criteria for diagnosing PV stenosis based on changes in PV caliber alone, ideally incorporating LA volume changes.

Background: Use of corticosteroids before and after atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation can decrease acute inflammation and reduce AF recurrence., Purpose: To assess the efficacy of oral prednisone in improving the outcomes of pulmonary vein isolation with radiofrequency ablation and its effect on inflammatory cytokine., Methods: A total of 60 patients with paroxysmal AF undergoing radiofrequency ablation were randomized (1:1) to receive either 3 doses of 60 mg daily of oral prednisone or a placebo. Inflammatory cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1, IL6, IL-8) were measured at baseline, prior to ablation, immediately after ablation, and 24 hours post ablation. Patients underwent 30 day event monitoring at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months post procedure., Results: Immediate post ablation levels of inflammatory cytokines were lower in the steroid group when compared to the placebo group; IL-6: 9.0 ±7 vs 15.8 ±13 p=0.031; IL-8: 10.5 ±9 vs 15.3 ±8; p=0.047 respectively. Acute PV reconnection rates during the procedure (7/23% vs 10/36%; p = 0.39), and RF ablation time (51±13 vs 56±11 min, p = 0.11) trended to be lower in the placebo group than the steroid group. There was no difference in the incidence of early recurrence of AF during the blanking period and freedom from AF off AAD at 12 months between both groups (5/17% vs 8/27%; p = 0.347 and 21/70% vs 18/60%; p=0.417 in placebo and steroid groups respectively)., Conclusion: Although oral corticosteroids have significant effect in lowering certain cytokines, it did not impact the clinical outcomes of AF ablation.

Background: The goal of this study is to assess the effect of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) over time on renal function and its impact on mortality. The effect of CRT on renal function in patients with heart failure is not well understood., Methods: All patients who underwent CRT implantation at University of Kansas between year 2000 and 2009 were reviewed and patients who had pre and post CRT renal function studied were included in our study. Stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) were defined based on Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative (KDOQI) guidelines. The effect of CRT on renal and cardiac function were studied at short term (≤6 months post implantation) and long term (>6 months)., Results: A total of 588 patients with mean age of 67 ± 12 yrs were included in the study. CRT responders (defined by increase in LVEF ≥ 5%) were 54% during short term follow-up and 65% on long term follow-up. When compared to baseline, there was no significant deterioration in mean Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) during follow up. When analyzed based on the stages of CKD, there was significant improvement of renal function in patients with advanced kidney disease. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that stable GFR or an improvement in GFR independently predicted mortality after adjusting for co-morbidities., Conclusions: CRT was associated with stabilization of renal function in patients with severe LV dysfunction and improvement in stage 4 and 5 CKD. Improved renal function was associated with a lower mortality., (Copyright © 2016 Indian Heart Rhythm Society. Production and hosting by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Lemierre's syndrome is a rare but a life threatening condition which affects young healthy individuals, was first described by Dr.Andre Lemierre in 1936. Incidence rates are between 0.6 and 2.3 per million population. It is found more commonly in males, with a male to female ratio of approximately 2:1. Its pathogenesis consists of the development of infectious thrombophlebitis in the internal jugular vein or one of its branches caused by a focal sepsis, mostly localized in the oropharynx, leading to generalized multiorgan metastatic infections, generally to the lung. This computerized tomography (CT) neck with intravenous contrast is from a 24 year old female who presented with a two day history of fever, hypotension and respiratory failure. The physical exam was positive for diminished breath sounds bilaterally on lung exam. Complete blood count revealed a leukocytosis of 16,200 u/L with 70% neutrophils and 9% bands, hemoglobin of 13.4mg/dl and severe thrombocytopenia with a platelet count of 34,000 u/L; comprehensive metabolic panel revealed sodium 140mmol/L, potassium 2.9mmol/L, bicarbonate 26mmol/L, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) 16mg/dl, creatinine 0.8mg/dl, calcium 7.2 mg/dl, albumin 2.4g/dl, total bilurubin 3.1mg/dl, AST 81 U/L, ALK 101 U/L, ALT 35U/L. CT chest revealed multiple cavitary opacities in both lungs. Blood cultures were positive for Fusobacterium necrophorum. CT scan neck showed a filling defect of the right internal jugular vein consistent with a thrombus and multiple enlarged cervical lymph nodes. Treatment is medical with intravenous antibiotics and anticoagulation. References: 1. Carlson ER, Bergamo DF, Coccia CT. Lemierre's syndrome: two cases of a forgotten disease. J Oral Maxillofac Surg 1994; 52:74-78. 2. Moore-Gillon J, Lee TH, Eykyn SJ, Phillips I. Necrobacillosis: a forgotten disease. BMJ 1984;288:1526-1527. 3. Jones C, Siva TM, Seymour FK, O'Reilly BJ. Lemierre's syndrome presenting with peritonsillar abscess and VIth cranial nerve palsy. J Laryngol Otol 2006;120:502-504 4. Mohammed Iqbal Syed et al. Lemierre Syndrome: Two Cases and a Review. Laryngoscope, 117:1605-1610, 2007 5. Vohra A, Saiz E, Ratzan KR. A young woman with a sore throat, septicaemia, and respiratory failure. Lancet 1997; 350:928.