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Background The contribution of atrial and ventricular function in neurocardiogenic syncope (NCS) pathophysiology is elusive. Hypothesis We assessed the influence of echocardiographic properties to the age of presentation and NCS recurrences. Methods We assigned 124 patients with symptoms suggesting NCS, to those with syncope initiation at age 35 years (group B, n = 68). Echocardiographic indices were measured before head‐up tilt test (HUTT). Results A total of 55 had positive HUTT (44%) with a trend favoring group A (p = .08). Group A exhibited lower left atrial (LA) volume index (17 ± 6 vs. 22 ± 11 ml/m2, p = .015), higher LA ejection fraction (69 ± 10 vs. 63 ± 11%, p = .008), LA peak strain (reservoir phase 41 ± 13 vs. 31 ± 14%, p = .001, contraction phase 27 ± 11 vs. 15 ± 10%, p 3 recurrences (82.0% vs. 50.1%, p

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) represents one of the primary cardiomyopathies and may lead to heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Among various histologic features of the disease examined, assessment of myocardial fibrosis may offer valuable information, since it may be considered the common nominator for all HCM connected complications. Late gadolinium-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR) has emerged as the reference noninvasive method for visualizing and quantifying myocardial fibrosis in patients with HCM. T1 mapping, a promising new CMR technique, may provide an advantage over conventional LGE-CMR, by permitting a more valid quantification of diffuse fibrosis. On the other hand, echocardiography offers a significantly more portable, affordable, and easily accessible solution for the study of fibrosis. Various echocardiographic techniques ranging from integrated backscatter and contrast-enhanced ultrasound to two- (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) deformation and shear wave imaging may offer new insights into substrate characterization in HCM. The aim of this review is to describe thoroughly all different modalities that may be used in everyday clinical practice for HCM fibrosis evaluation (with special focus on echocardiographic techniques), to concisely present available evidence and to argue in favor of multi-modality imaging application. It is essential to understand that the role of various imaging modalities is not competitive but complementary, since the information provided by each one is necessary to illuminate the complex pathophysiologic pathways of HCM, offering a personalized approach and treatment in every patient.

Arterial stiffness is a strong predictor of death and cardiovascular (CV) events in hemodialysis patients. Only few studies tested interventions aiming to improve arterial stiffness in this population. This study examines the effect of dry-weight reduction with a standardized lung-ultrasound-guided strategy on ambulatory aortic blood pressure (BP) and arterial stiffness parameters in hemodialysis. Seventy-one clinically euvolemic hemodialysis patients with hypertension, were included in this single-blind randomized clinical-trial. Patients were randomized in the active group (n = 35), following dry-weight reduction guided by the total number of US-B lines before a mid-week dialysis session and the control group (n = 36), following standard treatment. Patients underwent office evaluation of arterial stiffness and 48-h ABPM to capture ambulatory central systolic (cSBP) and diastolic BP (cDBP) and arterial stiffness indexes at baseline and after 8-weeks. US-B lines decreased in the active and slightly increased in the control group (p

Aims We aimed at directly comparing three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) deformation parameters in hypertrophic hearts and depict which may best reflect underlying fibrosis in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), defined by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Methods and results We included 40 HCM [54.1 ± 14.3 years, 82.5% male, maximum wall thickness (MWT) 19.3 ± 4.8 mm] and 15 hypertensive (HTN) patients showing myocardial hypertrophy (58.1 ± 15.6 years, 80% male, MWT 12.8 ± 1.4 mm) who have consecutively undergone 2D-, 3D-speckle tracking echocardiography and LGE CMR. Deformation parameters (2D and 3D) presented overall poor to moderate correlations, with 3D_longitudinal strain (LS) and 3D_circumferential strain (CS) values being constantly higher compared to 2D derivatives. By regression analysis, hypertrophy substrate (HCM vs. hypertension) and hypertrophy magnitude were the parameters to influence 2D–3D LS and CS strain correlations (R2 = 0.66, P Conclusions In hypertrophic hearts, 2D and 3D deformation parameters are not interchangeable, showing modest correlations. Thickness, substrate, and tracking algorithm calculating assumptions seem to induce this variability. Nevertheless, among HCM patients 2D_peak segmental longitudinal strain remains the best strain parameter for tissue characterization and fibrosis detection.

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus is closely associated with cardiovascular disease and evidence already exists on its arrhythmogenic action. Sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) are a unique class of oral antidiabetic medications which recently attracted attention for reducing the total risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in a series of recent, large placebo-controlled randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Dapagliflozin and empagliflozin additionally seem to improve survival and outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), irrespective of the presence of diabetes mellitus. Whether antidiabetic treatment with sodium-glucose co-transporter inhibitors could reduce the arrhythmic burden in diabetic patients still is to be clarified. Purpose The purpose of the present meta-analysis was to report the impact of SGLT2i on the risk for several types of cardiac arrhythmias, pooling data from all relevant cardiovascular and renal outcome, placebo-controlled, RCTs, comparing SGLT2i to placebo. Methods We searched PubMed for all available cardiovascular and renal outcome RCTs utilizing SGLT2i, along with grey literature sources. We sought to determine the risk of the following arrhythmias/cardiac disorders with the use of SGLT2i versus placebo: atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, ventricular extrasystoles, sinus bradycardia, sinus node dysfunction, second degree atrioventricular block, complete atrioventricular block. Results We extracted relevant data from 8 trials (5 dedicated cardiovascular outcome trials, 2 dedicated renal outcome trials, 1 trial enrolling patients with HFrEF), pooling data in a total of 55,966 patients. SGLT-2i treatment compared to placebo produced a significant reduction in the risk of atrial fibrillation equal to 21% (RR=0.79, 95% CI: 0.67–0.93, I2=0%) (Figure 1). A non-significant reduction in the risk of atrial flutter equal to 9% (RR=0.91, 95% CI: 0.64–1.29, I2=0%) was also observed with SGLT2i (Figure 2). No significant effect on the rest major arrhythmias was observed. Conclusions Antidiabetic therapy with SGLT2i seems to hold a significant impact on antiarrhythmic burden in type 2 diabetes mellitus, reducing the risk of atrial fibrillation development. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1Figure 2

Background Left atrial (LA) form and function has been the focus of extensive research in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The LA coupling index (LACI, see Picture 1 for definition) and the LA function Index (LAFI) have both been proposed as potent predictors of morbidity and mortality in HFrEF. Albeit promising, both parameters have drawbacks that could limit their usefulness in clinical settings - LACI can only be measured during sinus rhythm (SR), while LAFI calculation is arguably more involved. A side-by-side comparison of the two indices has not yet been performed. Purpose Investigate and compare the feasibility and efficacy of using LACI and LAFI as prognostic factors in HFrEF. Methods HFrEF patients that visited our outpatient HF clinic were invited to participate in the study. Clinical examination, 6-minute walk testing, and a full echocardiographic study were performed, the latter enabling quantification of LACI, LAFI, as well as most traditional echocardiographic predictors of HF prognosis (Picture 1). LACI and LAFI cut-offs of 6 and 25 respectively were defined in accordance with the relevant literature. Cox regression was performed to assess each parameter's correlation with risk of HF-related hospitalization and mortality over a 6-month follow-up period. Results In the end, 63 patients were included in the study (aged 69.3±9.7 years, 84% male). LACI could not be measured in 19 patients due to atrial tachycardia. The median LACI was 6.2 (8.7) while the median LAFI of the entire sample was 24.8 (44.5). LACI and LAFI correlated strongly (r=−0.813, p Conclusions The collinearity detected between LACI and LAFI indicate that both quantify similar aspects of left atrial (dys)function. That said, neither index had significant capability to predict hospitalization or death in our sample of HFrEF patients. Although a non-significant trend for higher LACI in patients with poorer prognosis was detected in our sample, it was also incalculable in 30% of patients, who were not in SR during echocardiography. Extended follow-up of an expanded sample size will enable more refined investigation of LACI's and LAFI's prognostic capacity. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Hospitalization Cox regression resultsLACI and LAFI survival curves

Background Diastolic function assessment in patients with hypertrophic hearts and preserved ejection fraction (EF) is a rather challenging task. Combined plotting of deformation parameters against other indices, especially left ventricular (LV) volume, may reflect diastolic function components of the hypertrophic myocardium. Purpose Aim of this study was i) to apply strain-volume loops (SVLs) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients based on simultaneous frame-by-frame strain and volume changes' recordings acquired by means of three-dimensional (3D) speckle tracking imaging and ii) to investigate potential correlations between these loops, traditional diastolic function indices and phenotypic features of HCM (thickness, obstruction and fibrosis) that may also reflect myocardial “stiffness”. Methods We included 40 HCM patients (54.1±14.3 years, 82.5% male, maximum wall thickness 19.3±4.8mm) who have consecutively undergone 3D-speckle tracking echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Values of 3D strain were plotted vs. volume for each frame to build an SVL. Peak of radial, longitudinal and circumferential systolic strain (Rsp, Lsp, and Csp, respectively), systolic slopes of the loops (RsSl, LsSl, CsSl), strain to end-diastolic volume (EDV) ratios (Rs/V, Ls/V, Cs/V) as well as the extent of systolic-diastolic uncoupling (difference between systolic and diastolic strain for the same volume) (panel A) were computed for the analysis. Left atrial volume index (LAVI), E/E' and tricuspid regurgitation velocity (TRvel) were measured to define diastolic dysfunction (DD) stage. Burden of fibrosis was evaluated by LGE extent in CMR slices. Results All HCM patients had preserved EF (60.5±5,7%), while 16 (40%) had LV outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO>30 mm Hg at rest). Mean LV mass index was 78.9±14.5 g (evaluated by 3D echocardiography). LGE was observed in 23 patients (57.5%) occupying 5.2±4.5% of LV mass. Concerning SVLs the following values were recorded for radial (Rsp 30.8±9.8%, RsSl 0.4±0.13 and Rs/V 0.25±0.09), longitudinal (Lsp −9.4±3.7%, LsSl 0.12±0.06 and Ls/V 0.08±0.04) and circumferential deformation (Csp −14.2±3.5%, CsSl 0.18±0.05 and Cs/V 0.11±0.03). Traditional isolated diastolic indices (E/E', LAVI, TRvel and DD stage) did not present significant correlations with SVL parameters or HCM phenotypic features. However, potentially “stiffer” hearts (combination of increased LVMI and fibrosis) presented a leftward transition of longitudinal SVLs, which also became wider (greater uncoupling) (panel B). Conclusions Traditional diastolic indices show modest only correlations with SVLs or HCM phenotypic characteristics, necessitating new approaches to DD of HCM patients. SVLs seem to be a promising-innovative tool for indirect assessment of myocardial “stiffness” and diastolic function. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1

Background Various studies suggest a decrease of hospital admissions for acute coronary syndromes (ACS) during COVID-19 outbreak, implying an increase in ACS related pre-hospital-care deaths as a cause of this phenomenon. Purpose Aim of this study was to investigate the impact of social containment measures on ACS admission and acute coronary deaths (ACDs) rates in Greece, during COVID-19 first pandemic wave in 2020. Methods Data for this analysis were retrieved by the official records of University Forensic and Cardiology Departments and the Forensic Science Services of the most crowded metropolitan areas of Greece (almost 25% of the entire Greek population ≈ 2.5 million people). The study period was defined as the time between March 15 2020, when the Greek state started to implement strict lock-down measures to contain COVID-19 pandemics, until April 14 2020. To compare admission and SCD rates, a corresponding control period a year earlier was chosen. Incidence rates (IRs) (events over days) of ACSs and ACDs in each time-period were assessed along with IRs ratios (IRRs) and 95% CI intervals. Secondary analysis for non-ischemic cardiovascular deaths (CVDs) or violent deaths (VDs) (including road traffic accident deaths) was also performed. Results There has been a relative 38.9% reduction in ACS admissions in 2020 [1.8, 95% CI (1.35–2.34) in 2019 vs 1.1, 95% CI (0.76–1.54) in 2020, p=0.02], concordant with a 66% relative reduction of total admissions (p Conclusions Our analysis offers evidence over a significant decrease in ACS-related hospitalization rates during COVID-19 first pandemic wave. This decrease is not linked to an increase in pre-hospital, autopsy defined ACDs, as previously thought, implying that many ACS patients may not ask for help on time due to infection fear, being prone however to late-onset complications. Pre-hospital triage and care services, should be appropriately transformed to facilitate and speed-up access of cardiovascular patients to health-care systems during the pandemic. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Figure 1

AimWe aimed to investigate the main anthropometric, cardiorespiratory and haematological factors that can determine marathon race performance in marathon runners.MethodsForty-five marathon runners (36 males, age: 42 ± 10 years) were examined during the training period for a marathon race. Assessment of training characteristics, anthropometric measurements, including height, body weight (n = 45) and body fat percentage (BF%) (n = 33), echocardiographic study (n = 45), cardiopulmonary exercise testing using treadmill ergometer (n = 33) and blood test (n = 24) were performed. We evaluated the relationships of these measurements with the personal best marathon race time (MRT) within a time frame of one year before or after the evaluation of each athlete.ResultsThe training age regarding long-distance running was 9 ± 7 years. Training volume was 70 (50–175) km/week. MRT was 4:02:53 ± 00:50:20 h. The MRT was positively associated with BF% (r = 0.587, p = 0.001). Among echocardiographic parameters, MRT correlated negatively with right ventricular end-diastolic area (RVEDA) (r = −0.716, p < 0.001). RVEDA was the only independent echocardiographic predictor of MRT. With regard to respiratory parameters, MRT correlated negatively with maximum minute ventilation indexed to body surface area (VEmax/BSA) (r = −0.509, p = 0.003). Among parameters of blood test, MRT correlated negatively with haemoglobin concentration (r = −0.471, p = 0.027) and estimated haemoglobin mass (Hbmass) (r = −0.680, p = 0.002). After performing multivariate linear regression analysis with MRT as dependent variable and BF% (standardised β = 0.501, p = 0.021), RVEDA (standardised β = −0.633, p = 0.003), VEmax/BSA (standardised β = 0.266, p = 0.303) and Hbmass (standardised β = −0.308, p = 0.066) as independent variables, only BF% and RVEDA were significant independent predictors of MRT (adjusted R2 = 0.796, p < 0.001 for the model).ConclusionsThe main physiological determinants of better marathon performance appear to be low BF% and RV enlargement. Upregulation of both maximum minute ventilation during exercise and haemoglobin mass may have a weaker effect to enhance marathon performance.Clinical Trial Registrationwww.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT04738877.

Background: Pacing the right heart has been shown to induce reversible conduction delay and subse­quent asymmetric remodeling of the left ventricle (LV) in dogs and pigs. Both species have disadvantages in animal experiments. Therefore the aim of this study was to develop a more feasible and easy-to-use animal model in sheep. Methods: Dual-chamber (DDD) pacemakers with epicardial leads on the right atrium and right ven­tricular free wall were implanted in 13 sheep. All animals underwent 8 weeks of chronic rapid pacing at 180 bpm. Reported observations were made at 110 bpm. Results: DDD pacing acutely induced a left bundle branch block (LBBB) — like pattern with almost doubling in QRS width and the appearance of a septal flash, indicating mechanical dyssynchrony. Atrial pacing (AAI) resulted in normal ventricular conduction and function. During 8 weeks of rapid DDD pacing, animals developed LV remodeling (confirmed with histology) with septal wall thinning (–30%, p < 0.05), lateral wall thickening (+22%, p < 0.05), LV volume increase (+32%, p < 0.05), decrease of LV ejection fraction (–31%, p < 0.05), and functional mitral regurgitation. After 8 weeks, segmental pressure-strain-loops, representing regional myocardial work, were recorded. Switching from AAI to DDD pacing decreased immediately work in the septum and increased it in the lateral wall (–69 and +41%, respectively, p < 0.05). Global LV stroke work and dP/dtmax decreased (–27% and -25%, respectively, p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study presents the development a new sheep model with an asymmetrically remod­eled LV. Simple pacemaker programing allows direct modulation of regional myocardial function and work. This animal model provides a new and valuable alternative for canine or porcine models and has the potential to become instrumental for investigating regional function and loading conditions on regional LV remodeling.

Although previous studies suggest that prolonged intense exercise such as marathon running transitorily alters cardiac function, there is little information regarding ultramarathon races. Aim of this study was to investigate the acute impact of ultra-endurance exercise (UEE) on heart, applying advanced strain imaging. Echocardiographic assessment was performed the day before and at the finish line of "Spartathlon": A 246 Km ultra-marathon running race. 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography was performed in all four chambers, evaluating longitudinal strain (LS) for both ventricles and atria. Peak strain values and temporal parameters adjusted for heart rate were extracted from the derived curves. Out of 60 participants initially screened, 27 athletes (19 male, age 45 ± 7 years) finished the race in 33:34:27(28:50:38-35:07:07) hours. Absolute values of right (RV) and left ventricular (LV) LS (RVLS -22.9 ± 3.6 pre- to -21.2 ± 3.0% post-, p=0.04 and LVLS -20.9 ± 2.3 pre- to -18.8 ± 2.0 post-, p=0.009) slightly decreased post-race, whereas atrial strain did not change. RV and LV LS decrease was caused mainly by strain impairment of basal regions with apical preservation. Inter-chamber relationships assessed through RV/LV, LV/LA, RV/RA and RA/LA peak values' ratios remained unchanged from pre to post-race. Finally, UEE caused an extension of the systolic phase of cardiac cycle with concomitant diastole reduction (p

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is a major public health crisis of great risk to patients with cardiovascular comorbidities. Heart failure (HF) is a deadly chronic disease, a leading cause of hospitalizations worldwide and a great detriment to patients’ quality of life. HF therapy guidelines suggest prescribing physical activity to improve long-term outcomes. Self- or government- imposed behavioral modifications in response to COVID-19 ranging from avoiding social interactions to outright restrictions of movement (lockdowns) could compromise regular PA in HF patients, who constitute an extremely high-risk group. Purpose Investigate the effect of the national lockdown in Greece 23rd March – 4th May 2020) on the PA levels of patients suffering from HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs). Methods HFrEF patients with CIEDs were included in the study. Participants answered the Physical Activity Questionnaire (PAQ) regarding the period before, during and after the 42-day national lockdown. CIED-derived daily activity levels for the corresponding periods were recorded through CIED telemetry. The differences in PAQ- and CIED-derived PA levels and sedentary time before, during and after the lockdown period were investigated. Results 67 HFrEF patients participated in the study (mean age 69 ± 10.2y, 85% male). Activity levels fell in 55 (82%) of patients. The median PAQ-derived PA level decreased by 28% during lockdown, from 840.5 (944) METmin/week to 602 (1054) METmin/week during the lockdown (p = 0.01). A 53% increase was observed after the lockdown, to 924 (1214) METmin/week (p = 0.004). The CIED-derived activity level was 2.38 (1.3) hours/day pre-lockdown, 1.78 (1.1) hours/day during the lockdown (25% decrease, p Conclusions All measures examined in this study indicate that the COVID-19 lockdown period was associated with a significant decrease in HFrEF patients’ PA. All efforts must be made on the part of clinicians and public health organizations to promote safe exercise in this subgroup of the population that is particularly vulnerable to the effects of a sedentary lifestyle. Abstract Figure. Patient activity around COVID lockdown

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – EU funding. Main funding source(s): ESPA 2014-2020 Background/Introduction: Long-time endurance exercise training leads to cardiovascular, respiratory, haematological and neuromuscular adaptations. The relative contribution of these adaptations to running performance in long-distance races remains to be elucidated in an integrative manner. Purpose The study of the relationship of marathon performance with anthropometric, cardiorespiratory and haematological adaptations. Methods Thirty-one marathon runners (26 males, age: 42 ± 9 years) were examined within 3 weeks before Athens marathon race (42.195 km). Assessment of training characteristics, anthropometric measurements, including height, body weight and body fat percentage, echocardiographic study, cardiopulmonary exercise testing using treadmill ergometer and blood test were performed. Results Training age was 11(1-39) years. Body fat percentage(BFP) was 17.3 ± 7.1% and body weight-indexed maximum oxygen uptake(VO2max) was 52.6 ± 8.9 mL/kg/min. Marathon race time(MRT) was 3:59:01(2:47:17-5:31:32). Among anthropometric measurements, MRT was positively associated with BFP(r= 0.561, p = 0.002) and body fat mass(r = 0.514, p = 0.005), even after adjustment for VO2max or oxygen uptake at first(VO2-VT1) or second(VO2-VT2) ventilatory threshold, implying an effect of BFP on running economy. Among echocardiographic parameters, MRT correlated negatively with right ventricular end-diastolic area(RVEDA) (r = -0.707, p Conclusions The results of the present study demonstrated that the main cardiorespiratory adaptation that could predict a better marathon performance was right ventricular dilatation, through the increase in stroke volume during exercise, whereas upregulation of tidal volume during exercise was found to be a weaker predictor. The principal anthropometric determinant of marathon performance appears to be body fat percentage, via the influence on running economy. Abstract Figure 1

There is little research about the effects of ultra-endurance exercise on arterial morphological and functional properties. The aim was to assess the acute changes of the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity and carotid doppler-derived parameters following an ultra-marathon race as well as the intima-media thickness of the carotid artery in ultra-marathon runners. Twenty athletes were examined at baseline and within 10 mins after a 246 km running race. Measurements included carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, peak-systolic and end-diastolic velocities of carotid artery blood flow, pulsatility and resistivity indices and blood biochemical parameters. The intima-media thickness of the right and left carotid artery was measured before the race. Arterial stiffness and carotid artery intima media thickness at rest remained within known normal limits. The ultra-marathon race significantly increased carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity by 22.6% and pulsatility index by 10.2%. There was a decrease in body weight by 3.35% and an increase of all biochemical markers of muscle damage after the race. Additionally, C-reactive protein was correlated with both pulsatility and resistivity indices post-race. This study shows that immediately after a 246 km ultra-marathon running race, acute increase of arterial stiffness and vascular resistance were evident. The carotid artery thickness of ultra-marathon runners was within normal range.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Vendors use proprietary speckle tracking software algorithms for echocardiographic strain measurements, which results in high inter-vendor variability. Little is known about potential advantages or disadvantages of using vendor-independent software in clinical practice. Purpose We therefore investigated the reproducibility, accuracy, and ability to identify scar of strain measurements on images from different vendors by using a vendor-independent software. Methods A vendor-independent software (TomTec Image Arena) was used to analyze datasets of 63 patients which were obtained on four ultrasound machines from different vendors (GE, Philips, Siemens, Toshiba). We measured the tracking feasibility, inter-vendor bias, the relative and absolute test-re-test variability of strain measurements and their ability to detect scar. Cardiac magnetic resonance delayed enhancement images were used as the reference standard of scar definition. Results Tracking feasibility differed depending on the image source (p Conclusions Vendor independent software leads to low bias among strain measurements on images from different vendors. Likewise, measurement variability and the ability to identify scar becomes similar. Our findings suggest that a vendor independent speckle tracking software could help to overcome inter-vendor bias. To which extend such measurements would be more accurate compared to vendor specific software remains to be determined. Abstract Figure 1

Background Catheter ablation has emerged as an effective therapy in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Despite high success rates of the method, there is still heterogeneity of outcomes and complications across Europe. A center's volume of AF ablations performed per year might also play an important role in the success rate of the procedure as compared to other confounding factors which may be different among centers (such as type of AF ablated, patient selection criteria, referral bias and/or ablation strategy). Purpose Aim of the study was to investigate differences in clinical outcomes and complication rates among European AF ablation centers related to the volume of ablations performed annually. Methods Data for this analysis were extracted from the European AF Ablation Long-Term Study, a prospective registry designed to describe the clinical epidemiology of patients undergoing AF ablation. Based on 33th and 67th percentiles of number of AF ablations performed, the participating centers were classified into high volume (HV) (≥180 procedures/year), medium volume (MV) ( Results A total of 91 centers in 26 European countries enrolled 3368 patients. There was a significantly higher reporting of cardiovascular complications in LV centers (5.2%), especially pericarditis and cardiac perforation, while the HV and MV centers reported cardiovascular complications in 3.0 and 4.3% of cases, respectively (p=0.039). Additionally, stroke incidence after ablation was significantly higher in LV centers (0.5% of cases vs 0% in HV and MV centers, p=0.008). One-year success after AF ablation ranged from 77.8% in HV vs 70.5% in LV vs 77.3% in MV centers (p Conclusions Low volume centers present slightly higher cardiovascular complications' and stroke incidence and a lower unadjusted success rate after AF ablation. On the other hand, adjusted overall complication and recurrence rates are non-significantly different among different volume centers, a fact reflecting inhomogeneity of patient and procedural profiles and a counterbalance between expertise and risk level among participating centers. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Background It is well documented that prolonged intense exercise such as a marathon, transitorily alters cardiac function. However, the impact of ultra-endurance (UE) exercise on global and segmental longitudinal deformation of all cardiac chambers and on inter-chamber functional relationships has not yet been thoroughly investigated. Purpose The aim of the study was the evaluation of the acute effects of UE exercise on longitudinal deformation of all cardiac chambers and on intra-, inter- and atrioventricular functional relationships. Methods Echocardiographic assessment was performed the day before and at the finish line of “Spartathlon”: a 246 Km ultra-marathon. 2D speckle-tracking echocardiography was performed in all 4 chambers during the same cardiac cycle, allowing a simultaneous strain-time data display of all cardiac chambers (Figure 1). Peak global deformation values and temporal parameters adjusted for the heart rate were extracted from the derived curves, while a segmental analysis for left (LV) and right ventricle (RV) was also performed. Results Out of 60 participants initially screened, 27 athletes (17 male, age 45±7 years) finished the race in 33:34±1:59 hours. Both LV (−20.9±2.3 pre- to −18.8±2% post-, p=0.009) and RV global strains (−22.9±3.6 pre- to −21.2±3% post-, p=0.04) decreased post-race, even though remained within normal range for the 85% of the participants. Peak atrial strains [right (RA) and left (LA)] did not change (p=0.12 and 0.95). Basal and mid segmental strain values significantly decreased post-race, while both LV and RV apical strain values remained unaffected (p=0.899 and p=0.46, accordingly) (Figure). Concerning interchamber relationships, RV and RA strain curves were constantly larger in magnitude than those of the LV and LA, with RV/LV, LV/LA, RV/RA and RA/LA peak values' ratios remaining unchanged from pre- to post-race. Finally, although right chambers' time-to-peak values were shorter compared to the left ones, all chambers' strain curves peaked later post-race (p Conclusions Despite subtle changes in LV and RV strain, 4-chamber deformation values remained within normal range even after running a 246 km ultra-marathon. Following a segmental analysis, this finding could be explained for both ventricles by a preservation of apical deformation. Additionally, inter- and atrioventricular concordance was also maintained. Figure 1 Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Background Combined plotting of deformation parameters against other indices [e.g. arterial pressure, left ventricular (LV) volume] might offer additional information about different diseases. Especially in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) this approach might offer new insights into the various phenotypic and pathophysiologic features of this entity. Purpose Aim of this study was i) to apply strain-volume loops in HCM based on simultaneous frame-by-frame strain and volume changes' recordings acquired by means of three-dimensional (3D) speckle tracking imaging and ii) to investigate potential correlations between these loops and phenotypic features of HCM (including thickness, obstruction and fibrosis). Methods We included 40 HCM patients (54.1±14.3 years, 82.5% male, maximum wall thickness 19.3±4.8mm) who have consecutively undergone 3D-speckle tracking echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Values of 3D strain were plotted vs. volume for each frame to build a strain–volume loop. Peak of radial, longitudinal, and circumferential systolic strain (Rsp, Lsp, and Csp, respectively), systolic slopes of the loops (RsSl, LsSl, CsSl), and strain to end-diastolic volume (EDV) ratio (Rs/V, Ls/V, Cs/V) were computed for the analysis (panel A). Additionally, burden of fibrosis (percentage of LV mass) was defined by LGE extent (>5 standard deviations compared to nulled myocardium) in CMR slices. Results All HCM patients had preserved EF (60.5±5,7%), while 16 (40%) had LV outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO>30 mm Hg at rest). Mean LV mass index was 78.9±14.5 g (evaluated by 3D echocardiography). LGE was observed in 23 patients (57.5%) occupying 5.2±4.5% of LV mass. Concerning strain-volume loops the following values were recorded for radial (Rsp 30.8±9.8%, RsSl 0.4±0.13 and Rs/V 0.25±0.09), longitudinal (Lsp −9.4±3.7%, LsSl 0.12±0.06 and Ls/V 0.08±0.04) and circumferential deformation (Csp −14.2±3.5%, CsSl 0.18±0.05 and Cs/V 0.11±0.03). Among typical HCM characteristics tested (LV mass, LVOTO and LGE), only LV mass presented significant correlations with LsSl (r=−0.41, p Conclusions Strain-volume loop is an innovative application of 3D deformation imaging in HCM. According to this new non-invasive method, increase of LVMI in HCM is accompanied by less longitudinal contribution to stroke volume, whereas better systolic-diastolic coupling may exclude the presence of underlying fibrosis. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: None

Aims The aim of the study was to investigate differences in clinical outcomes and complication rates among European atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation centres related to the volume of AF ablations performed. Methods and results Data for this analysis were extracted from the ESC EHRA EORP European AF Ablation Long-Term Study Registry. Based on 33rd and 67th percentiles of number of AF ablations performed, the participating centres were classified into high volume (HV) (≥ 180 procedures/year), medium volume (MV) ( Conclusion Low-volume centres tended to present slightly higher cardiovascular complications’ and stroke incidence and a lower unadjusted success rate after AF ablation, despite the fact that ablation procedures and patients were of lower risk compared with MV and HV centres. On the other hand, adjusted overall complication and recurrence rates were non-significantly different among different volume centres, a fact reflecting the heterogeneity of patient and procedural profiles, and a counterbalance between expertise and risk level among participating centres.

Aim The investigation of the pathophysiological determinants of cardiac changes following ultra-long duration exercise. Methods Twenty-seven runners who finished a 246 km running race were examined both before and after the finish of the race. Examinations included echocardiography and measurement of body weight and blood biochemical parameters. Results Exercise increased left ventricular end-diastolic interventricular septum thickness (LVIVSd) ( p Conclusion The main cardiac effects of ultra-long duration exercise were the decrease in left ventricular end-diastolic dimensions and increase in left ventricular wall thickness, as well as minimal dilatation and alteration in systolic function of right ventricle, possibly due to the altered exercise-related right ventricular afterload.

Background: To evaluate long-term clinical outcomes after treatment of complex bifurcation lesions with the AXXESS dedicated self-expanding biolimus A9-eluting bifurcation stent. Methods: Between 2004 and 2013, 123 patients with complex bifurcation lesions were treated in a single-center with the AXXESS stent in the proximal main vessel (MV) and additional drug-eluting stents in branches when required. Median follow-up was 5 years. Primary endpoint was the rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Secondary endpoints included MACE components (cardiac death, non-periprocedural clinical myocardial infarction [MI], target lesion revascularization [TLR] and definite/probable stent thrombosis [ST]) as well as all-cause death, target vessel revascularization (TVR) and non-TVR. Results: During follow-up, 11 (8.9%) patients experienced a MACE, of whom 2 (1.6%) suffered cardiac death, 2 (1.6%) had a non-periprocedural clinical MI requiring TLR, and 7 (5.7%) underwent elective TLR. No definite/probable ST was observed. All-cause death occurred in 9 (7.3%) patients, TVR in 11 (8.9%) and non-TVR in 11 (8.9%). Patients treated for left main (LM) bifurcation lesions were more likely to experience MACE than non-LM bifurcation lesions (25% vs. 6.5%, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Percutaneous revascularization of complex bifurcation lesions with the AXXESS stent is safe and provides excellent long-term results, especially in non-LM lesions.

AIMS We aimed at investigating the relationship between segmental morphology [wall thickness (WT) and WT location (LT: base-mid-apex)], loading conditions and underlying pathological substrate [histology (H), hypertrophy vs. infiltration] with segmental longitudinal (SLS) and circumferential (SCS) strain in a group of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and cardiac amyloidosis (CA). METHODS AND RESULTS We included 30 patients with biopsy-proven CA (65.4 ± 10.7 years, 66% male, 76.7% AL type) and 50 patients with HCM matched for maximum WT (60 ± 16 years, 80% male). SLS and SCS were assessed with speckle-tracking echocardiography in an 18-segment model of left ventricle, while morphological parameters were measured in short-axis cardiovascular magnetic resonance cine loops which corresponded with echo segments. In total, 1440 segments were evaluated of which 198 (36.7%) in CA and 252 (28%) in HCM had WT >12 mm (maximum WT 18.1 ± 3.7 mm in CA vs. 18.6 ± 4.1 in HCM, P = 0.59). SLS showed association with WT [beta 0.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.37-0.6; P

Objectives In this study, we compared left ventricular (LV) segmental strain measurements obtained with different ultrasound machines and post-processing software packages. Background Global longitudinal strain (GLS) has proven to be a reproducible and valuable tool in clinical practice. Data about the reproducibility and intervendor differences of segmental strain measurements, however, are missing. Methods We included 63 volunteers with cardiac magnetic resonance–proven infarct scar with segmental LV function ranging from normal to severely impaired. Each subject was examined within 2 h by a single expert sonographer with machines from multiple vendors. All 3 apical views were acquired twice to determine the test-retest and the intervendor variability. Segmental longitudinal peak systolic, end-systolic, and post-systolic strain were measured using 7 vendor-specific systems (Hitachi, Tokyo, Japan; Esaote, Florence, Italy; GE Vingmed Ultrasound, Horten, Norway; Philips, Andover, Massachusetts; Samsung, Seoul, South Korea; Siemens, Mountain View, California; and Toshiba, Otawara, Japan) and 2 independent software packages (Epsilon, Ann Arbor, Michigan; and TOMTEC, Unterschleissheim, Germany) and compared among vendors. Results Image quality and tracking feasibility differed among vendors (analysis of variance, p Conclusions In contrast to GLS, LV segmental longitudinal strain measurements have a higher variability on top of the known intervendor bias. The fidelity of different software to follow segmental function varies considerably. We conclude that single segmental strain values should be used with caution in the clinic. Segmental strain pattern analysis might be a more robust alternative.

Objectives The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of vendor-specific and independent strain analysis tools to detect regional myocardial function abnormality in a clinical setting. Background Speckle tracking echocardiography has been considered a promising tool for the quantitative assessment of regional myocardial function. However, the potential differences among speckle tracking software with regard to their accuracy in identifying regional abnormality has not been studied extensively. Methods Sixty-three subjects (5 healthy volunteers and 58 patients) were examined with 7 different ultrasound machines during 5 days. All patients had experienced a previous myocardial infarction, which was characterized by cardiac magnetic resonance with late gadolinium enhancement. Segmental peak systolic (PS), end-systolic (ES) and post-systolic strain (PSS) measurements were obtained with 6 vendor-specific software tools and 2 independent strain analysis tools. Strain parameters were compared between fully scarred and scar-free segments. Receiver-operating characteristic curves testing the ability of strain parameters and derived indexes to discriminate between these segments were compared among vendors. Results The average strain values calculated for normal segments ranged from −15.1% to −20.7% for PS, −14.9% to −20.6% for ES, and −16.1% to −21.4% for PSS. Significantly lower values of strain (p Conclusions The accuracy of identifying regional abnormality differs significantly among vendors.

Objectives To define the optimal timing for percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation (PR) after Fallot's Tetralogy (ToF) correction. Background PPVI among the aforementioned patients is mainly driven by symptoms or by severe right ventricular (RV) dilatation/dysfunction. The optimal timing for PPVI is still disputed. Methods Twenty patients [age 13.9 ± 9.2 years, (range 4.3–44.9), male 70%] with severe PR (≥3 grade) secondary to previous correction of ToF, underwent Melody valve (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN) implantation, after a pre-stent placement. Full echocardiographic assessment (traditional and deformation analysis) and cardiovascular magnetic resonance evaluation were performed before and at 3 months after the intervention. ‘Favorable remodelling’ was considered the upper quartile of RV size decrease (>20% in 3 months). Results After PPVI, indexed RV effective stroke volume increased from 38.4 ± 9.5 to 51.4 ± 10.7 mL/m2, (P = 0.005), while RV end-diastolic volume and strain indices decreased (123.1 ± 24.1–101.5 ± 18.3 mL/m2, P = 0.005 and −23.5 ± 2.5 to −21 ± 2.5%, P = 0.002, respectively). After inserting pre-PPVI clinical, RV volumetric and deformation parameters in a multiple regression model, only time after last surgical correction causing PR remained as significant regressor of RV remodelling [R2 = 0.60, beta = 0.387, 95%CI(0.07–0.7), P = 0.019]. Volume reduction and functional improvement were more pronounced in patients treated with PPVI earlier than 7 years after last RV outflow tract (RVOT) correction, reaching close-to-normal values. Conclusions Early PPVI (

Funding Acknowledgements Supported with a scholarship by the Greek State Scholarship Foundation (IKY). Background Strain assessment offers a robust evaluation of myocardial mechanics and systolic function, however reporting only peak strain values in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) may impose limitations in the conception of its complex remodeling. Therefore, combined plotting of deformation parameters against other indices [e.g. arterial pressure, left ventricular (LV) volume] might offer additional insights into the pathophysiology of the disease. Purpose Aim of this study was i) to apply strain-volume loops in HCM based on simultaneous frame-by-frame strain and volume changes’ recordings acquired by means of three-dimensional (3D) speckle tracking imaging and ii) to take advantage of the previous methodology to gain further insights into HCM pathophysiology. Methods We included 40 HCM patients (54.1 ± 14.3 years, 82.5% male, maximum wall thickness 19.3 ± 4.8mm) who have consecutively undergone 3D-speckle tracking echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). Values of 3D strain were plotted vs. volume for each frame to build a strain–volume loop. Peak of radial, longitudinal, and circumferential systolic strain (Rsp, Lsp, and Csp, respectively), systolic slopes of the loops (RsSl, LsSl, CsSl), and strain to end-diastolic volume (EDV) ratio (Rs/V, Ls/V, Cs/V) were computed for the analysis (panel A). Additionally, burden of fibrosis (percentage of LV mass) was defined by LGE extent (>5 standard deviations compared to nulled myocardium) in CMR slices. Results All HCM patients had preserved EF (60.5 ± 5,7%), while 16 (40%) had LV outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO > 30 mm Hg at rest). Mean LV mass index was 78.9 ± 14.5 g (evaluated by 3D echocardiography). LGE was observed in 23 patients (57.5%) occupying 5.2 ± 4.5% of LV mass. Concerning strain-volume loops the following values were recorded for radial (Rsp 30.8 ± 9.8%, RsSl 0.4 ± 0.13 and Rs/V 0.25 ± 0.09), longitudinal (Lsp -9.4 ± 3.7%, LsSl 0.12 ± 0.06 and Ls/V 0.08 ± 0.04) and circumferential deformation (Csp -14.2 ± 3.5%, CsSl 0.18 ± 0.05 and Cs/V 0.11 ± 0.03). Among typical HCM characteristics tested (LV mass, LVOTO and LGE), only LV mass presented significant correlations with LsSl (r=-0.41, p Conclusions Strain-volume loop is an innovative application of 3D deformation imaging in HCM. According to this new non-invasive method, increase of LVMI in HCM is accompanied by less longitudinal contribution to stroke volume, whereas absence of fibrosis and severe hypertrophy is accompanied by better systolic-diastolic coupling. Abstract 1181 Figure.

Aims Investigating the acute impact of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on regional myocardial work distribution in the left ventricle (LV) and to which extent it is related to long-term reverse remodelling. Methods and results One hundred and thirty heart failure patients, referred for CRT implantation, were recruited in our prospective multicentre study. Regional myocardial work was calculated from non-invasive segmental stress–strain loop area before and immediately after CRT. The magnitude of volumetric reverse remodelling was determined from the change in LV end-systolic volume, 11 ± 2 months after implantation. CRT caused acute redistribution of myocardial work across the LV, with an increase in septal work, and decrease in LV lateral wall work (all P Conclusion The acute redistribution of regional myocardial work between the septal and lateral wall of the LV is an important determinant of reverse remodelling after CRT implantation. Our data suggest that the treatment of the loading imbalance should, therefore, be the main aim of CRT.

Funding Acknowledgements Supported with a scholarship by the Greek State Scholarship Foundation (IKY). Background Previous studies have suggested that in normal and ischemic hearts three- (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) strain values present a moderate agreement which is prone to technical considerations. However, the level of agreement between 2D and 3D-strain imaging has never been adequately addressed in hypertrophic hearts, nor has it been validated against a "ground truth". Especially in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), the magnitude and eccentricity of hypertrophy set additional challenges in standardization and measurement of regional 3D deformation parameters. Purpose Aims of this study were i) to investigate the consistency between 3D and 2D regional deformation parameters in HCM and ii) to test their accuracy in identifying regional fibrosis as this is defined by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Methods We included 40 HCM patients (54.1 ± 14.3 years, 82.5% male, maximum wall thickness 19.3 ± 4.8mm) who have consecutively undergone 2D-,3D-speckle tracking echocardiography and CMR. Segmental circumferential (SCS) and longitudinal (SLS) strain have been calculated from 2D acquisitions and 3D full volume data, where additionally radial (SRS) and area (SAS) strain have been extracted using an 18 segment left ventricle model. Accordingly, segmental fibrosis was defined by LGE in corresponding CMR slices. Results Out of 720 segments evaluated, 134 (19.7%) were enhanced and 95(13.2%) thickened (thickness > 12 mm). Two dimensional LS and CS analysis was feasible in 719 (99.9%) and 678 (94.2%) segments respectively, while 686 segments (95.3%) were appropriate for 3D tracking. 3D_SLS values were -7.9 ± 6.8% less negative compared to 2D_SLS values [level of agreement (LOA)(-21.1-5.4%)], while the bias for SCS values was even higher -8.5 ± 8.6 [LOA(-25.4-8.4%)]. Absolute agreement between 2D and 3D deformation imaging modalities was poor to moderate [Intra-class Correlation Coefficient (ICC)= 0.46, 95%CI (0.15-0.68), p Conclusions In HCM, 2D and 3D deformation parameters are not interchangeable, showing modest agreement. Thickness and tracking algorithm calculating assumptions seem to induce this inconsistency. Among HCM patients, 2D_SLS remains the most accurate strain parameter to detect regional fibrosis. Abstract P984 Figure.

The aim of this study was to explore the association between mechanical dyssynchrony of the left ventricle before cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) and improvement of mitral regurgitation (MR) after CRT.MR is very frequent among patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and conduction delay.Echocardiograms (pre-CRT and 12 ± 3.8 months thereafter) of 314 patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and any degree of MR, who underwent CRT device implantation according to guidelines, were analyzed. Left ventricular (LV) mechanical dyssynchrony was assessed by apical rocking (ApRock) and septal flash (SF), while MR severity was graded from I to IV on the basis of vena contracta width, regurgitation jet size, and proximal isovelocity surface area.At baseline, 30% of patients presented with severe MR (grade III or IV). In 62% of patients, MR decreased after CRT, and these patients more frequently had left bundle branch block, had more severe MR, had more dilated left ventricles, had lower ejection fractions, and more often had ApRock and SF. Reverse remodeling was more frequent among patients with MR reduction (ΔLV end-systolic volume -35.5% ± 27.2% vs -4.1% ± 33.2%; P 0.001). In a multivariable logistic stepwise regression, only ApRock (odds ratio [OR]: 3.8; 95% CI: 1.7-8.5; P = 0.001), SF (OR: 3.6; 95% CI: 1.6-7.9; P = 0.002), and baseline MR (OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.0-1.9; P = 0.046) remained significantly associated with MR reduction.ApRock, SF, and severity of MR at baseline are strongly associated with MR reduction after CRT, while LV reverse remodeling is its underlying mechanism. Therefore, in patients with heart failure with LV dyssynchrony on optimal medical treatment, CRT should be the primary treatment attempt for relevant MR.

Introduction and purpose Hemodialysis patients have premature arterial stiffness, and the relationship between pulse wave velocity (PWV) and blood pressure (BP) may be different than in other hypertensives. Previous studies showed that when BP decrease is accompanied by PWV decrease the survival is improved. The aim of this study is to examine the prognostic significance of BP sensitivity of PWV for major cardiovascular outcomes and all-cause mortality in hemodialysis patients. Methods This is a prospective cohort study including 242 hemodialysis patients [age, 62.6±14.2 years; female, 91 (37.6%); hemodialysis vintage, 41.53±43.46]. All subjects underwent 48-hour-ABPM with Mobil-O-Graph-NG and followed-up for 33.17±19.68 months. The within-individual MBP-PWV association (MBP, dependent and PWV independent variable) was evaluated using the beta-coefficient value from simple linear regression analysis for each patient. The primary end-point was first occurrence of all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction or non-fatal stroke. Secondary end-points were: (i) all-cause mortality; (ii) cardiovascular mortality; (iii) a combination of cardiovascular events. Results Patients who experienced the primary end-point during follow-up had significantly lower beta-coefficient levels (primary end-point: 19.877±3.975 vs 18.483±3.550, p=0.008). Higher quartiles of beta-coefficients (indicating dependency of PWV on MBP) were associated with higher cumulative freedom from the primary end-point (50.8%, 60.0%, 70.0% and 80.3% for quartiles 1 to 4 respectively; logrank-p=0.001), higher overall survival (60.7%, 61.7%, 73.3%, 86.9%; logrank-p=0.002) and higher cardiovascular survival (78.7%, 75.0%, 81.7%, 91.8% for quartiles 1 to 4; logrank-p=0.044). The future risk for the primary end-point, all-cause and cardiovascular mortality and the combined outcome was progressively increasing for lower quartiles of beta-coefficients (HR for all-cause mortality 3.395; 95% CI: 1.524–7.563, p=0.003 for quartile 1 vs quartile 4). Age (OR: 1.046, 95% CI: 1.016–1.077 per year increase, p=0.003) and 48h heart rate (OR: 0.949, 95% CI: 0.916–0.982 per bpm increase, p=0.003) were independently associated with weaker relationship between 48h-MBP and 48h-PWV. Conclusions Lower within-individual MBP-PWV association, based on AMBP recordings, is associated with higher risk of death and cardiovascular events in hemodialysis. These findings support that BP-independent arterial stiffness may be the underlying factor for adverse outcomes in these individuals.

Background In patients with dilated cardiomyopathy and left bundle branch block (LBBB), different regions of the left ventricle (LV) have been shown to perform different amounts of work. In this study, we investigate the acute impact of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) on regional LV work distribution and its relation to long-term reverse-remodelling. Methods We recruited 130 heart failure patients, referred for CRT. Regional myocardial work was calculated from non-invasive echocardiographic segmental stress-strain-loop-area before and immediately after CRT. The magnitude of volumetric reverse-remodelling was determined from the change in LV end-systolic volume (ESV), 11±2 months after implantation. Characteristics of patients with the lowest and highest quartile of LV ESV reverse remodelling (ΔLV ESV −48%) were compared. Results Before CRT, myocardial work showed significant differences among the walls of the LV (Figure 1A). CRT caused an acute re-distribution of myocardial work, on average with most increase in the septum and most decrease laterally (all walls p Figure 1 Conclusions The acute re-distribution of regional myocardial work between the septal and lateral wall of the left ventricle is the main determinant of long term reverse-remodelling after CRT-implantation. Our data suggest that modification of regional loading is the mode of action of CRT treatment.

Background Pressure-strain-loops (PSL) have been suggested as surrogate parameter of regional myocardial work. However, in left ventricles (LV) with inhomogeneous remodelling, e.g. due to left bundle branch block (LBBB), wall stress may be unevenly distributed. Stress-strain loops (SSL) include information on both regional wall thickness and curvature, and may therefore provide a better surrogate. Study plan We therefore compared the correlation of segmental myocardial work estimated through both PSL and SSL to segmental myocardial glucose metabolism as a gold standard, in an animal model of pacing-induced LV remodelling. Methods Twelve sheep developed LV dilatation, thinned septum and thickened lateral wall, due to eight weeks of rapid right-atrial and right-ventricular free wall (DDD) pacing (at 180 bpm), causing a LBBB-like dyssynchrony. Invasive LV pressure and echocardiographic speckle tracking based circumferential strain were used to construct PSL. SSL were calculated by considering in addition dynamic changes in segmental myocardial wall thickness and curvature using the formula of Laplace. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-uptake was measured by positron emission tomography (PET) in absolute values as standardised uptake ratio (SUR). Spatial resolution of PET was improved by ECG- and breathing-gating and using anatomical priors. All imaging was performed during dyssynchronous DDD-pacing and synchronous AAI-pacing (right-atrial pacing only), at baseline (n=3 animals), and after eight weeks of pacing induced remodelling (n=12 animals). Results Both at baseline (Fig. A+B) and after 8 weeks (Fig. D+E), switching between AAI and DDD-pacing caused an acute re-distribution of regional myocardial work as measured by both PSL and SSL. In contrast to PSL, however, SSL identified more regional differences among walls in remodelled hearts and showed clearer regional changes when switching between AAI and DDD-pacing. The correlation between regional work, assessed by PSL and SSL, and metabolism by PET, was comparable at baseline (r=0.65 and r=0.64, respectively) (Fig. C). In remodelled hearts after 8 weeks, however, the correlation of regional work assessed by SSL and glucose uptake by PET was significantly higher compared to PSL (r=0.73 vs. r=0.59, respectively; p Conclusions Regional myocardial work assessed by stress-strain loops correlates significantly better to regional metabolism as measured by PET glucose uptake, particularly after remodelling. Our findings therefore suggest that integrating information on wall thickness and curvature is essential for the reliable assessment of regional myocardial work, especially in dyssynchronous and remodelled left ventricles.

Background Catheter ablation has emerged as an effective therapy in patients with symptomatic and drug refractory atrial fibrillation (AF). Despite high success rates of the method, there is still heterogeneity of outcomes and complication rate across Europe. The impact of the annual procedural volume per center on success and complication rate of AF ablation, based on real-life data, has not been addressed till now. Purpose The aim of the study was to investigate if center AF ablation volume might be associated with one-year success or complication rate after the procedure. Methods Data for this analysis were extracted from the European AF Ablation Long-Term Study, a prospective registry designed to describe the clinical epidemiology of patients undergoing AF ablation. Based on 25th and 75th percentiles of AF ablation numbers performed, the participating centers were classified into high volume (HV) (≥250 procedures/year), medium volume (MV) ( Results A total of 91 centers in 26 European countries enrolled 3368 patients. There was a significantly higher reporting of cardiovascular complications in LV centers (5.2%), especially pericarditis (0.6%) and cardiac perforation (1.4%), while the HV and MV centers reported cardiovascular complications in 3.0 and 4.3% of cases, respectively (p=0.039). Additionally, stroke incidence after ablation was significantly higher in LV centers (0.5% of cases vs 0% in HV and MV centers, p=0.008). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis based on adjusted data of all complications demonstrated, however, that there was not a significant difference in complication rate according to volume's center (p=0.402, Figure A). One-year success after AF ablation ranged from 77.8% in HV vs 70.5% in LV vs 77.3% in MV centers (p Conclusions Despite the notion that “the higher, the better”, our results suggest that AF ablation is a safe procedure with high success rates in all European centers, independent of the AF ablation procedural volume. Differences in patients and procedural characteristics may justify the equality of complication and recurrence rate among centers, since expertise level counterbalances the risk of each case.

Background Previous studies have directly compared 2-dimensional (2D) and 4-dimensional (4D) deformation imaging in normal and ischemic hearts suggesting a moderate agreement prone to technical considerations. However, the level of agreement between 2D and 4D-strain imaging has never been adequately addressed in hypertrophic hearts, nor has it been validated against a “ground truth”. Purpose We aimed at directly comparing 4D and 2D global and regional deformation parameters and depict which may best reflect underlying segmental fibrosis in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), as defined by late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). Methods We included 40 HCM patients (54.1±14.3 years, 82.5% male, maximum wall thickness 19.3±4.8mm) who have consecutively undergone 2D-,4D-speckle tracking echocardiography and CMR. Global and segmental circumferential (CS) and longitudinal (LS) strain have been calculated from 2D acquisitions and 4D full volume data, where additionally radial (RS) and area (AS) strain have been extracted using an 18 segment left ventricle model. Accordingly, segmental fibrosis was defined by LGE in corresponding CMR slices. Results Deformation parameters (2D and 4D, global and regional) presented overall poor to moderate agreement (Figure A+B) with regional 4D_LS and 4D_CS values being constantly less negative compared to 2D derivatives (−7.29±6.94% and −8.53±8.8% accordingly). In regional analysis, 720 segments were evaluated of which 134 (19.7%) were enhanced and 95 of them thickened (68.8%) (thickness>12 mm), with segments presenting both characteristics showing the greatest impairment both in 2D and 4D strain values. Among segmental deformation indices, 2D_SLS showed the best area under the curve [(AUC)=0.78, 95% CI (0.75–0.81), p Conclusions In HCM, 2D and 4D deformation parameters are not interchangeable, showing modest agreement. Thickness and tracking algorithm calculating assumptions seem to induce this variability. Nevertheless, among HCM patients 2D_SLS remains the best strain parameter for tissue characterization and fibrosis detection. Acknowledgement/Funding Supported with a scholarship by the Greek State Scholarship Foundation (IKY).

Introduction and purpose Left ventricular hypertrophy and dysfunction is tightly associated with adverse outcome in hemodialysis. Hypertension and increased preload due to hypervolemia are major factors for these cardiac anomalies in hemodialysis. This study examined the effect of lung-ultrasound-guided dry-weight reduction on echocardiographic indices of left and right cardiac size, systolic and diastolic function in hypertensive hemodialysis patients. Methods This pilot, single-blind trial randomised 71 clinically euvolemic hypertensive hemodialysis patients in an active group (n=35), following a strategy for dry-weight reduction guided by the total number of US-B lines (US-B lines score) prior to a mid-week dialysis session, and a control group (n=36), following standard-of-care treatment. Among others, patients underwent two-dimensional and tissue-Doppler echocardiographic (TDI) at baseline and after 8-weeks. Results Overall, 19 (54.3%) patients in the active and 5 (13.9%) in the control group had UF intensification (p Conclusions A lung-ultrasound-guided strategy for dry-weight reduction can effectively reduce cardiac chambers dimensions and LV filling pressures without changing systolic performance during an 8-week follow-up in hypertensive hemodialysis patients.

Background Data from the European Atrial Fibrillation (AF) Ablation Long-Term Registry suggest that there are significant differences in the volume of AF ablation procedures performed across different centers even in the same country. If these differences in AF ablation volume between centers reflect regional, socioeconomic, infrastructural/technical or other disparities has not been addressed till now. Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate patient and non-patient related differences among European AF ablation centers according to the volume of AF ablations performed. Methods Data for this analysis originate from the European AF Ablation Long-Term Study, a prospective registry designed to describe the clinical epidemiology of patients undergoing AF ablation. Based on 25th and 75th percentiles of AF ablation numbers performed, the participating centers were classified into high volume (HV) (≥250 procedures/year), medium volume (MV) ( Results A total of 91 centers in 26 European countries enrolled 3368 patients. There were no significant differences concerning regional distribution, hospital/cardiology facilities or services provided among centers with the exception of electrophysiology procedures and labs which were more abundant in HV centers (p=0.02 and Conclusions Volume of AF ablations in a center is not correlated with regional or infrastructural characteristics. The higher volume in HV centers consists mainly by more long-term persistent AF and higher risk patients, suggesting that differences in volume reflect differences in experience and personnel's commitment towards AF ablation.

Aims Left ventricular (LV) dilatation results in increased sphericity and affects position and orientation of papillary muscles (PMs), which may influence their performed work. The aim of this study was to assess the contribution of PM to LV function and its changes with dilatation. Methods and results Fifteen sheep were investigated. Ten animals were subjected to 8 weeks of rapid (180 bpm) pacing, inducing LV dilatation. Five animals served as controls. High-resolution gated computed tomography was performed to assess LV volumes, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), global longitudinal strain (GLS), sphericity index, and PM angle, width and fractional shortening. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) was used to measure glucose metabolism as surrogate of regional myocardial work. Spatial resolution of PET images was maximized by electrocardiogram- and respiratory-gating. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake was measured in PM and compared with remaining left ventricular myocardium (MYO) to obtain a PM/MYO ratio. Animals with dilated heart had a more spherical left ventricle, with reduced LVEF (P

Objective Ultrafiltration rate is one of the major determinants of adverse outcomes in patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) therapy. Previous studies have focused on the impact of HD on right ventricular (RV) peak strain values. However, the influence of HD on the temporal characteristics of deformation has not been reported yet. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of high ultrafiltration rate (HUR) on RV mechanical dyssynchrony. Methods Echocardiographic images focused on the RV and left ventricle (LV) were obtained from 60 patients (49.2+-17.3 years, 22 female) before and after HD. Patients were divided into two groups according to ultrafiltration rate. Changes in echocardiographic parameters with HD were examined. Two-dimensional speckle-tracking strain analysis was used to assess deformation. Mechanical dispersion was measured as the standard deviation of time to peak longitudinal strain of six segments for RV and 18 segments for LV. Results The average ultrafiltrated volume and ultrafiltration rate were 3000.1+-1007.9 mL and 11.4+-2.9 mL/kg/h, respectively. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) of the RV and LV decreased after HD in both groups. A significant difference was observed in RV mechanical dispersion with HD for patients in the high ultrafiltration group. A mild statistically insignificant increase in LV mechanical dispersion was also observed after HD. Conclusion HUR has a substantial impact on LV and RV GLS and RV dyssynchrony. Ultrafiltration rates and volumes should be kept as low as possible to achieve hemodynamic stability and tolerability.

The accuracy of diagnosis and clinical implications of the hepatoadrenal syndrome, as currently diagnosed using total cortisol, remain to be validated. The aim of this study was to assess adrenal function using free cortisol in stable cirrhosis and study the potential implications of any abnormalities for renal and/or cardiac function. Sixty-one stable consecutively enrolled patients with cirrhosis underwent assessment of adrenal function using the low-dose short Synacthen test, renal function by 51Cr-EDTA glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and cardiac function by two-dimensional echocardiography. Eleven patients (18%) had total peak cortisol (PC)

INTRODUCTION: Preventing sudden cardiac death (SCD) is one of the main goals in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). Many variables have been proposed, however the European and American guidelines do not incorporate any ECG or Holter monitoring derived variables other than the presence of ventricular arrhythmia in their risk stratification models. In the present study we evaluated electrocardiographic parameters in risk stratification of HCM. METHODS AND RESULTS: Novel electrocardiographic parameters including the index of cardio-electrophysiological balance (iCEB), individualized QT correction (QTi) and QT rate dependence were evaluated along with established risk factors. A composite endpoint of SCD was defined as out of hospital cardiac arrest, appropriate ICD shock and sustained ventricular tachycardia. Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate predictors of SCD. Out of the 466 HCM patients, 31 reached the composite endpoint during a follow up of 75 ± 86 months. In a multivariate model, nor iCEB, QTi or QT rate dependence were predictors of SCD. Only male gender (p

Cirrhosis is commonly associated with impaired left ventricular (LV) myocardial contractile reserve to stress and diastolic dysfunction. The aim of this study was to assess LV systolic performance at rest, using both "standard" echocardiographic indices and novel deformation-rotational parameters, in order to elucidate the pathophysiologic basis of cardiac dysfunction in cirrhosis. Seventy-seven men with cirrhosis (mean age 54.4 ± 9.7) of variable Child-Pugh class (A, B, C) and 20 healthy control subjects were prospectively evaluated by standard as well as speckle tracking echocardiography. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was significantly higher in patients with cirrhosis compared to controls (64.6 ± 5.7% in controls vs. 71 ± 9.5%, 71.2 ± 7.1%, and 73 ± 7% in Child-Pugh classes A, B, and C, respectively, P = 0.002). Interestingly, LV systolic function augmentation was not associated with changes in LV longitudinal deformation (LV strain -19 ± 1.9% in controls vs. -20.1 ± 5.3% in class A vs. -21.3 ± 2.6% in class B vs. -21 ± 3.4% in class C, P = NS), but a statistically significant increase in LV apical systolic rotation and accordingly in LV twist was observed (LV twist 13.0 ± 3° in controls vs. 14.9 ± 5° in class A vs. 16.5 ± 2.8° in class B vs. 18.2 ± 2.9° in class C, P < 0.0005). Despite the increase in LV rotation, time to both basal and apical peak systolic rotation was significantly delayed in patients compared to healthy controls (P = 0.015 and P = 0.017 accordingly). Increased EF in cirrhosis could be attributed to increased LV torsion. Despite the "improved" rotation values at rest, there is a significant time delay in succeeding peak systolic rotation, hampering also the consequent untwisting-diastolic period.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Arterial hypertension (AH), arterial stiffness (AS), older age, and female gender are the main determinants of HFpEF, but several cardiac or extra-cardiac pathologies are also possible causes. The combined ventricular-vascular stiffening (abnormal left atrium-left ventricle coupling related to AS) is the main contributor of the increased prevalence of HFpEF in elderly persons, particularly elderly women, and in younger persons with AH. The hospitalization and mortality rates of HFpEF are similar to those of heart failure with reduced EF (HFrEF). However, although the prognosis of HFrEF has been substantially improved during the last 2 decades, the effective treatment of HFpEF remains an unmet need. Regimens effective in HFrEF have no substantial effect on HFpEF, because of different pathophysiologies of the 2 syndromes. Pipeline drugs seem promising, but it will take some years before they are commercially available. Aggressive treatment of noncardiac comorbidities seems to be the only option at hand. Treatment of anaemia, sleep disorders, chronic kidney disease (CKD), non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD), atrial fibrillation, diabetes, and careful use of diuretics to reduce preload are effective to some degree. Statin treatment, despite the presence of dyslipidaemia, deserves special attention because it has been proven, mainly in small studies or post hoc analyses of trials, that it offers a substantial improvement in quality of life and a reduction in mortality rates. We need to urgently utilize these recourses to relieve a considerable part of the general population suffering from HFpEF, a deadly disease.

It is widely known that various factors contribute to left atrial (LA) mechanical dysfunction in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD). However, the connection between atrial dysfunction and arrhythmic events such as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF), in this group of patients, remains unclear. The purpose of our study was to evaluate prospectively the association between LA deformation indices and PAF in ESRD patients. 79 patients (41 men, mean age 57 ± 17) with ESRD and preserved left ventricular systolic function comprised the study population. All patients underwent a baseline comprehensive echocardiography study and were followed for a mean period of 16 ± 5 months. PAF episodes, first and the following events, were reported. LA longitudinal strain reflecting LA reservoir function and LA longitudinal strain rate reflecting LA pump function were specifically evaluated as LA deformation indices of interest, using 2D speckle tracking echocardiography. At the end of follow up period nine patients died. 15 of the rest 70 reported one or more episodes of PAF. LA indexed volumes were significantly higher in patients with PAF (32 ± 26 vs. 21.5 ± 9 ml/m2, p = 0.002), mean LA strain was significantly reduced (17 ± 7 vs. 27 ± 9%, p