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Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Evaluar el tratamiento y aplicacion de las recomendaciones de las guias europeas del tratamiento de fibrilacion auricular (FA), en una cohorte contemporanea de pacientes con FA. Metodos REGUEIFA es un estudio observacional, prospectivo y multicentrico de pacientes con diagnostico primario o secundario de FA que residen en la comunidad autonoma de Galicia y son valorados por cardiologos. Resultados Se incluyeron 1.007 pacientes con una edad media de 67 anos y 32% mujeres. Un 50% de pacientes tenia enfermedad cardiovascular. La amiodarona fue el farmaco antiarritmico mas utilizado (24,5%). El riesgo tromboembolico fue de 2,3 ± 1,5 en la escala CHA2DS2-VASc y el riesgo hemorragico de 0,7 ± 0,7 en la escala HAS-BLED. Se prescribio tratamiento con anticoagulantes orales (ACO) en el 91,1%. Una mayor puntuacion en la escala CHA2DS2-VASc, y la ablacion de FA se identificaron como factores independientes asociados a ACO mientras que la forma paroxistica se asocio a no anticoagulacion. Se identificaron la edad y la insuficiencia renal como factores independientes de prescripcion de antagonistas de la vitamina K mientras que la cardioversion electrica y la ablacion de FA se asociaron de forma independiente a la prescripcion de ACO de accion directa. Conclusiones El estudio REGUEIFA proporciona informacion contemporanea del tratamiento cardiologico de pacientes con FA. La prescripcion de ACO fue del 91,1%. Se describen los factores independientes asociados a la prescripcion de ACO y de ACO de accion directa.

Este año ha estado marcado por la pandemia por coronavirus del síndrome respiratorio agudo grave de tipo 2 (SARS-CoV-2), que ha afectado nuestro modo de vida y de trabajo, además de focalizar una gran proporción de la publicación científica. Repasaremos las principales novedades en arritmias cardiacas y electrofisiología durante los últimos 12 meses, seleccionando en primer lugar los documentos de consenso más relevantes y las guías de práctica clínica de la Sociedad Europea de Cardiología y, posteriormente, aquellas publicaciones con mayor relevancia para el cardiólogo clínico.

During March 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 virus spread throughout Europe, with the spread being especially intense in Italy and Spain. Given the emergency created by the COVID-19 outbreak, routine activity has been altered in most cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology labs. Health staff working in these areas are faced with performing procedures in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 or with uncertainty in unconfirmed cases. This article is a consensus document of the Interventional Cardiology Association and Heart Rhythm Association of the Spanish Society of Cardiology and aims to provide information to health care professionals working in these invasive cardiology facilities (cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology labs, pacemaker implantation) in order to guarantee quality patient care and adequate levels of infection prevention.

espanolDurante marzo de 2020, el virus SARS-CoV-2 se ha extendido por toda Europa, con especial intensidad en Italia y Espana. Ante la emergencia creada por el brote de COVID-19, la inmensa mayoria de las salas de hemodinamica y electrofisiologia han visto alterada su actividad habitual. Ademas se enfrentan a la realizacion de procedimientos en pacientes con diagnostico confirmado de COVID-19 o con la incertidumbre en casos no confirmados. El presente texto es un documento de consenso de la Asociacion de Cardiologia Intervencionista y la Asociacion del Ritmo Cardiaco de la Sociedad Espanola de Cardiologia que pretende dar informacion al personal sanitario de estas instalaciones de cardiologia invasiva (hemodinamica y electrofisiologia y marcapasos) para garantizar una atencion de calidad a los pacientes asi como unos niveles los niveles adecuados de prevencion de la infeccion. EnglishDuring March 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 virus spread throughout Europe, with the spread being especially intense in Italy and Spain. Given the emergency created by the COVID-19 outbreak, routine activity has been altered in most cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology labs. Health staff working in these areas are faced with performing procedures in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 or with uncertainty in unconfirmed cases. This article is a consensus document of the Interventional Cardiology Association and Heart Rhythm Association of the Spanish Society of Cardiology and aims to provide information to health care professionals working in these invasive cardiology facilities (cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology labs, pacemaker implantation) in order to guarantee quality patient care and adequate levels of infection prevention.

BACKGROUND: Atrial fibrillation (AF) increases the risk of thromboembolism. We investigate the efficacy and safety of oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy and explored the number needed to treat for net effect (NNTnet) of OAC in the Spanish cohort of the EURObservational Research Programme-AF (EORP-AF) Long-term General Registry. METHODS: The EORP-AF General Registry is a prospective, multicentre registry conducted in ESC countries, including consecutive AF patients. For the present analysis, we used the Spanish cohort, and the primary outcome was any thromboembolism (TE)/acute coronary syndrome (ACS)/cardiovascular death during the first year of follow-up. RESULTS: 729 AF patients were included (57.1% male, median age 75 [IQR 67-81] years, median CHA(2) DS(2) -VASc and HAS-BLED of 3 [IQR 2-5] and 2 [IQR 1-2], respectively). 548 (75.2%) patients received OAC alone (318 [43.6%] on VKAs and 230 [31.6%] on DOACs). After 1 year, the use of OAC alone showed lower rates of any TE/ACS/cardiovascular death (3.0%/year; p

Introduction Feasibility of concomitant leadless-pacemaker (LP) implantation plus atrioventricular node ablation (AVNA) is unknown. Moreover, safety issues in the long run are also undetermined. It seems theoretically attractive since it could avoid one additional procedure and catheter could be introduced through the same sheath employed for the LP. On the contrary, risk of dislocation/electrical variations could represent a shortcoming. Objective We aim to report 1) feasibility of concomitant AVNA after a LP implantation and 2) long-term outcomes. Methods Single center, prospective and observational study of 256 consecutive patients with an indication for single-chamber pacemaker placement. The implantation procedure was carried out using a femoral approach and conventional technique. Successful implantation was accomplished in 255/256 patients referred for leadless implantation. In one patient, a complete obstruction of the inferior vena cava was documented, and a conventional unicameral pacemaker was implanted. Results 33 out of 255 patients underwent immediate AV ablation. Mean age was 75.2±8.3 years. Were predominantly females: 25 (75.7%) and indication was fast conduction atrial fibrillation (n=25), atypical flutter or atrial tachycardia (n=8). Mean acute “R wave” was 11.3mV, threshold of 0.55Vx0.24ms and impedance of 833Ω. Uneventful AV node ablation was performed in all of them immediately after LP implantation. Additional mean fluoroscopic time was 3.0 minutes. There were no vascular or arrhythmic complications after the implantation. After a mean follow-up of 27.9±12 months, all patients remained alive without notable event, and electrical parameters remained unchanged (Figure 1). Actuarial survival was shown in Figure 2. Conclusions Conconmitant AVN ablation after LP implantation seems feasible without remarkable complications in the long run. In our experience, this approach appears more comfortable for the patients and less time-consuming than conventional pacemaker implantation with sequential AV node ablation. There were no device macrodislodgements or unexpected device malfunctions in the follow-up period. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Electrical performanceSurvival

Introduction Leadless pacemakers (LPM) have demonstrated adequate electrical performance and safety in patients with multiple commorbidities such as heart valve replacements at short-term follow-up. Purpose We present our experience in patients with LPM and heart valve replacements at long-term follow-up. Methods This was a prospective observational study including all consecutive LPM implantation from June 1 2005 to March 15 2021. Clinical, electrical, echocardiographic characteristics, related complications and electrical parameters were compared in 2 different groups with and with-out valve surgical procedure. Results A total of 255 LPM were implanted. Clinical, electrical and echocardiographic characteristics are described in table 1. Mean follow-up was of 24 months. There were no significant differences in electrical performance or related complications in between both groups (Figure 1). Conclusions Electrical performance and complications were no significantly different between both groups with and without heart valve replacements. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Se describen los resultados en Espana de la segunda encuesta de la Sociedad Europea de Cardiologia sobre terapia de resincronizacion cardiaca (CRT-Survey II) y se comparan con los de los demas paises participantes. Metodos Pacientes a los que se implanto un dispositivo de terapia de resincronizacion cardiaca entre octubre de 2015 y diciembre de 2016 en 36 centros participantes. Se recogieron datos sobre las caracteristicas basales de los pacientes y del implante, y un seguimiento a corto plazo hasta el alta hospitalaria. Resultados La tasa de exito del implante fue del 95,9%. La mediana [intervalo intercuartilico] de implantes anuales/centro en Espana fue significativamente menor que en los demas paises participantes: 30 [21-50] frente a 55 [33-100] implantes/ano (p = 0,00003). En los centros espanoles hubo una menor proporcion de pacientes de edad ≥ 75 anos (el 27,9 frente al 32,4%; p = 0,0071), una mayor proporcion de pacientes en clase funcional II de la New York Heart Association (el 46,9 frente al 36,9%; p Conclusiones La encuesta CRT-Survey II muestra que en Espana hay una menor proporcion de pacientes de 75 o mas anos que reciben un dispositivo de terapia de resincronizacion cardiaca, una mayor proporcion de pacientes en clase funcional II de la New York Heart Association, con bloqueo completo de la rama izquierda del haz de His y con seguimiento a distancia, con estancias hospitalarias significativamente menores.

Aims This work aimed to compare the behavior of the advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their soluble receptor (sRAGE) in two cohorts of patients: those with heart failure (HF) and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods and results A unicentric observational clinical study was performed in 102 patients with ACS and 102 patients with chronic HF matched by age and gender. At inclusion, fluorescent AGEs were measured by quantitative fluorescence spectroscopy of plasma, and total sRAGE and endogenous secretory RAGE (esRAGE) levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. A 5-year follow-up period was established for recording cardiac death (primary endpoint) and the incidence of non-fatal myocardial infarction or HF readmission (secondary endpoints). Higher glycation parameters were observed in HF patients, whereas no differences in sRAGE forms were found between HF and ACS cohorts, except for cRAGE, which was higher in HF. Associations between glycation parameters and sRAGE forms were observed in HF, but not in ACS. Differences were also evidenced in the long-term prognosis of each cohort: esRAGE showed an independent prognostic value for cardiac death or non-fatal cardiovascular events in HF, but none of the AGE–RAGE variables were predictors in ACS. Conclusions A different role for the AGE–RAGE axis was observed in HF and ACS. All the sRAGE forms were directly related with glycation parameters in HF, but not in ACS. The independent value of the sRAGE forms on each cardiovascular disease was supported by esRAGE being an independent predictor of bad long-term prognosis only for HF.

Imaging techniques have shown the association between left atrial adipose tissue (LAAT) volume and atrial fibrillation (AF) risk.To analyze 1) adipokines in peripheral and atrial plasma from patients undergoing AF ablation; 2) its association with LAAT volume measured by multislice CT and 3) its predictive value for AF recurrence.Seventy consecutive patients undergoing AF catheter ablation were screened. Blood samples were extracted from the left atrium and peripheral vein before catheter ablation. Multiplex fluorimetric immunoassay, enzyme-linked immunoassay and Western blot techniques were used for analyzing some adipokines, fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4), and leptin and perilipin analysis, respectively. Patients were followed up with clinical visits until one year after ablation. Generalized additive regression (GAM) was used for determining the best indicator of LAAT volume. Logistic regression analysis determined the best predictor of AF recurrence after persistent AF catheter ablation.Our results showed 1) differences in the levels of FABP4 between peripheral and left atrial blood samples. 2) persistent AF patients had higher LAAT volume than those with paroxysmal AF (5.12 ± 2.76 vs. 3.82 ± 1.81 mL; p 0.036). FABP4 was the best adipokine associated with LAAT in persistent AF (p 0.01) 3) and predictive value for AF recurrence after catheter ablation (AUC-ROC 0.883 with 95% CI 0.739-1.028).Plasma FABP4 levels, which were associated with LAAT volume in persistent AF, can be predictors of recurrence after catheter ablation. Whether persistent AF patients require more intensive management and monitoring according to FABP4 deserves further investigation.

Background Patients with COPD are at higher risk of presenting with atrial fibrillation (AF). Information about clinical outcomes and optimal medical treatment of AF in the setting of COPD remains missing. We aimed to describe the prevalence of COPD in a sizeable cohort of real-world AF patients belonging to the same healthcare area and to examine the relationship between comorbid COPD and AF prognosis. Methods Prospective analysis performed in a specific healthcare area. Data were obtained from several sources within the "data warehouse of the Galician Healthcare Service" using multiple analytical tools. Statistical analyses were completed using SPSS 19 and STATA 14.0. Results A total of 7,990 (2.08%) patients with AF were registered throughout 2013 in our healthcare area (n=348,985). Mean age was 76.83±10.51 years and 937 (11.7%) presented with COPD. COPD patients had a higher mean CHA2DS2-VASc (4.21 vs 3.46; P=0.02) and received less beta-blocker and more digoxin therapy than those without COPD. During a mean follow-up of 707±103 days, 1,361 patients (17%) died. All-cause mortality was close to two fold higher in the COPD group (28.3% vs 15.5%; P

Aims: The utility of biomarkers in characterizing atrial cardiomyopathy is unclear. We aim to test the ability of biomarkers of fibrosis (galectin-3 (Gal-3)) and adiposity (fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) and leptin) to predict: (1) the presence of low-voltage areas (LVA) in the electroanatomic voltage mapping; and (2) the recurrence of atrial fibrillation (AF) after pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). Methods: Patients referred for PVI were enrolled. Areas of bipolar voltage < 0.5 mV were considered as LVA. An aggregate score incorporating AF pattern (paroxysmal, persistent and long-standing persistent) and peripheral levels of FABP4 (>20 ng/mL) was developed. Results: 299 patients were included. AF was paroxysmal in 100 (33%), persistent in 130 (43%) and long-standing persistent in 69 (23%). Multivariable analysis revealed age, left atrium area, and the proposed score as independent predictors of LVA. During a mean follow-up period of 972 ± 451 days, freedom from AF recurrence was 63%. The score incorporating AF pattern and FABP4 levels accurately predicted freedom from AF recurrence, stratifying risk into ranges from 28% (score of 1) to 68% (score of 3). Cox regression models identified the score including AF pattern + FABP4 as the best model for AF recurrence (hazard ratio 2.32; 95% CI, 1.19 to 4.5; p = 0.014). Conclusions: Traditional clinical classification of atrial cardiomyopathy may be improved by markers of adiposity (FABP4). The combination allows better prediction of the presence of LVA and AF recurrence post-PVI. Gal-3 provided no added predictive value.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a valvular replacement that has been developed as an alternative in patients with high and intermediate risk. One of the more frequent complications are new on-set conduction abnormalities. Purpose The purpose of the study was to evaluate the performance of leadless pacemakers (LPM) after TAVI and compare it with conventional pacemaker implantations (VVI- PM). Methods This was a prospective observational study that included all consecutive patients in which a TAVI and a PM was implanted during the same hospitalization (January 1 2015 to December 31 2020). Clinical, echocardiographic, ECG at implant characteristics, and related complications were described. Results From a total of 126 patients (21.3%) with PM implantation: 2 required cardiac resynchronization system, 73 DDD-PM, 29 VVI-PM, 22 LPM. Clinical and echocardiographic characteristics are described in table 1. Main follow-up was of 12 months and 22 patients (79.7%) developed AF. Electrical parameters were stable in conventional and LPM. Total mortality was of 33 patients (26.2%), there was one case of infectious endocarditis in a DDD-PM, and there were no complications in LPM patients. Conclusions. New on-set of conductions abnormalities are one of the main related complications in TAVI patients. In our study, patients with LPM had a safe performance with low complications rate. Table 1 DDD-PM (73) VVI-PM(29) LPM(22) p Age 84.2 83,1 79,4 0.1753 Men 35 (47.9%) 19 (65,5%) 12 (54,5%) 0.108746 Hypertension 67 (91.8%) 23 (79,3%) 10 (45,4%) 0.077846 Diabetes Mellitus 19 (26%) 12 (41,4%) 7 (31,8%) 0.128362 COPD 13 (17.8%) 7 (24.1%) 4 (18.2%) 0.073172 Renal insufficiency 15 (20.5%) 9 (31%) 10 (45,4%) 0.260054 AF 13 (17.8%) 27 (93.1%) 21 (95.4%) < 0.00001 Ischemic cardiomiopathy 24 (32.9%) 16 (55.2%) 7 (31.8%) 0.063504 LVEF 57.5 56 59 0.298312 Sinus Rhythm at implant 72 (98.6%) 2 (6.9%) 1 (4.5%) < 0.00001 RBBB Pre-TAVI 22 (30.1%) 3 (10.3%) 7 (31.8%) 0.06561 AF at follow-up 11 (15.1%) 28 (96.6%) 22 (100%) < 0.00001 Mortality 14 (19.2%) 14 (48.3%) 5 (22.7%) 0.002973 Complications 4 (5.5%) 1 (3.4%) 0 0.668225 Clinical, electrical and echocardiographic characteristics.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Leadless pacemakers (LPM) have demonstrated adequate electrical performance and safety in patients with multiple commorbidities. Limited information has been published about patients with LPM and heart valve replacements. Purpose We were interested to present our experience in patients with LPM and heart valve replacements. Methods This was a prospective observational study in which we include all consecutive LPM implantation in a 5 year period (June 1 2005 to January 1 2020). Clinical, electrical and echocardiographic characteristics were described and evaluated in 2 different groups with and with-out surgical procedure. Results A total of 242 LPM were implanted. We describe clinical and echocardiographic characteristics in patients table 1. There were no significant differences in electrical performance in between both groups (Figure 1). Conclusions In our series with LPM we observed adequate electrical performance as well as safety at implant and follow-up in patients with heart valve replacements. No valve procedure185Valve procedure61pAge79.2 (±6.4)79.7 (±8)0.6395Men114340.78866Hypertension151440.899914Diabetes Mellitus58190.635131COPD3470.345258Renal insufficiency29160.000717Ischemic cardiomiopathy36140.495789LVEF59.9 (±7.6)590.036577Single mechanical replacement18Single bioprosthetic replacement12Bioprosthetic valve + TV annuloplasty3Bioprosthetic valve + MV & TV annuloplasty1Mechanical valve + TV annuloplasty2Sigle MV annuloplasty1MV & TV annuloplasty2Abstract Figure.

Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Introduction Feasibility of concomitant leadless-pacemaker(LP) implantation plus atrioventricular node ablation(AVNA) is unknown. Moreover, safety issues in the long run are also undetermined. It seems theoretically attractive since it could avoid one additional procedure and catheter could be introduced through the same sheath employed for the LP. On the contrary, risk of dislocation/electrical variations could represent a shortcoming . Objective We aim to report 1) feasibility of concomitant AVNA after a LP implantation and 2) long-term outcomes. Methods Single center, prospective and observational study of 243 consecutive patients with an indication for single-chamber pacemaker placement. The implantation procedure was carried out using a femoral approach and conventional technique. Successful implantation was accomplished in 242/243 patients referred for leadless implantation. In one patient, a complete obstruction of the inferior vena cava was documented, and a conventional unicameral pacemaker was implanted. Results 33 out of 242 patients underwent immediate AV ablation. Mean age was 75.2 ± 8.3 years. Were predominantly females: 25(75.7%) and indication was fast conduction atrial fibrillation(n = 25), atypical flutter or atrial tachycardia (n = 8). Mean acute "R wave" was 11.3mV, threshold of 0.55Vx0.24ms and impedance of 833Ω. Uneventful AV node ablation was performed in all of them immediately after LP implantation. Additional mean fluoroscopic time was 3.0 minutes. There were no vascular or arrhythmic complications after the implantation. After a mean follow-up of 19.9± 12 months, all patients remained alive without notable event, and electrical parameters remained unchanged.(Figure 1) Conclusions Conconmitant AVN ablation after LP implantation seems feasible without remarkable complications in the long run. In our experience, this approach appears more comfortable for the patients and less time-consuming than conventional pacemaker implantation with sequential AV node ablation. There were no device macrodislodgements or unexpected device malfunctions in the follow-up period. Abstract Figure. Electrical performance

Sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SVASD) is an interatrial communication caused by a deficiency of the common wall between the superior vena cava and the right-sided pulmonary veins. Implantation of a conventional pacemaker in this setting can be challenging. We report the feasibility of leadless pacemaker (LPM) implantation assisted by imaging integration and electroanatomical mapping SI

The 4S-AF scheme [Stroke risk, Symptom severity, Severity of atrial fibrillation (AF) burden, Substrate severity] has recently been described as a novel approach to in-depth characterization of AF. We aim to determine if the 4S-AF scheme would be useful for AF characterization and provides prognostic information in real-world AF patients.The Spanish and French cohorts of the EORP-AF Long-Term General Registry were included. The baseline 4S-AF scheme was calculated and related to the primary management strategy (rhythm or rate control). Follow-up was performed at 1-year with all-cause mortality and the composite of ischaemic stroke/transient ischaemic attack/systemic embolism, major bleeding, and all-cause death, as primary endpoints. A total of 1479 patients [36.9\ median age 72 interquartile range (IQR 64–80) years] were included. The median 4S-AF scheme score was 5 (IQR 4–7). The 4S-AF scheme, as continuous and as categorical, was associated with the management strategy decided for the patient (both P \lt; 0.001). The predictive performances of the 4S-AF scheme for the actual management strategy were appropriate in its continuous [c-index 0.77, 95\CI) 0.75–0.80] and categorical (c-index 0.75, 95\.72–0.78) forms. Cox regression analyses showed that ‘red category’ classified patients in the 4S-AF scheme had a higher risk of all-cause death (aHR 1.75, 95\.02–2.99) and composite outcomes (aHR 1.60, 95\.05–2.44).Characterization of AF by using the 4S-AF scheme may aid in identifying AF patients that would be managed by rhythm or rate control and could also help in identifying high-risk AF patients for worse clinical outcomes in a ‘real-world’ setting. Aims: The 4S-AF scheme [Stroke risk, Symptom severity, Severity of atrial fibrillation (AF) burden, Substrate severity] has recently been described as a novel approach to in-depth characterization of AF. We aim to determine if the 4S-AF scheme would be useful for AF characterization and provides prognostic information in real-world AF patients. Methods and results: The Spanish and French cohorts of the EORP-AF Long-Term General Registry were included. The baseline 4S-AF scheme was calculated and related to the primary management strategy (rhythm or rate control). Follow-up was performed at 1-year with all-cause mortality and the composite of ischaemic stroke/transient ischaemic attack/systemic embolism, major bleeding, and all-cause death, as primary endpoints. A total of 1479 patients [36.9% females, median age 72 interquartile range (IQR 64-80) years] were included. The median 4S-AF scheme score was 5 (IQR 4-7). The 4S-AF scheme, as continuous and as categorical, was associated with the management strategy decided for the patient (both P < 0.001). The predictive performances of the 4S-AF scheme for the actual management strategy were appropriate in its continuous [c-index 0.77, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75-0.80] and categorical (c-index 0.75, 95% CI 0.72-0.78) forms. Cox regression analyses showed that 'red category' classified patients in the 4S-AF scheme had a higher risk of all-cause death (aHR 1.75, 95% CI 1.02-2.99) and composite outcomes (aHR 1.60, 95% CI 1.05-2.44). Conclusion: Characterization of AF by using the 4S-AF scheme may aid in identifying AF patients that would be managed by rhythm or rate control and could also help in identifying high-risk AF patients for worse clinical outcomes in a 'real-world' setting.

Post-infarction remodeling is a clinical problem with no curative treatment. Our objective was to search for new biomarkers of cardiac remodeling that have clinical value after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). This pilot study enrolled 67 consecutive patients with de novo STEMI who underwent revascularization by primary angioplasty. Echocardiography studies of cardiac function were completed during the first 48 h post-STEMI and after 6 months of follow-up. Galectin-3 and soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) were tested in the peripheral venous blood during the 24 h post-infarction. Cardiac remodeling was defined as changes ≥ 15% in the left ventricular end-systolic volume (LVESV) or > 10% in the left atrial area (LAA). An inverse association was found between galectin-3 (rs = - 0.296; p < 0.001) and sRAGE (rs = - 0.327; p < 0.001) levels and the basal left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF). However, only galectin-3 was directly associated with the increase in LVESV (rs = 0.389; p = 0.007) and LVEDV (rs = 0.314; p = 0.031) during the follow-up. sRAGE was inversely related to the change in LAA (rs = - 0.320; p = 0.032). These data are consistent with galectin-3, but not sRAGE levels, as a predictor of left ventricle remodeling (OR 1.036, 95% CI 1.002-1.071; p = 0.039). Galectin-3 and sRAGE levels that were measured during hospitalization are inversely related to basal LVEF after a STEMI. Galectin-3 levels are a predictor of adverse post-STEMI LV remodeling, whereas sRAGE levels exhibited an inverse relationship with left atrial remodeling. KEY MESSAGES: Post-infarction remodeling is a clinical problem with no curative treatment. New biomarkers for remodeling after acute myocardial infarction were explored. Early post-STEMI galectin-3 and soluble RAGE are inversely related with left ventricle function. Galectin-3 levels were predictors of adverse post-STEMI left ventricle remodeling. Soluble RAGE levels were associated with left atrial remodeling.

Introduction and objectives Initial results of Leadless pacemakers (LPM) has been promising in worldwide, nevertheless there are still no long term experience published, so the objective of our study was to evaluate electrical parameters at mid and long term follow-up, describing as well total complications and mortality in a single center-study. Methods This was a prospective, observational clinical trial that included 183 consecutive patients, with an indication for a single-chamber pacemaker implantation. Results All successful implantation included a total of 183 patients with a mean age of 79,2 ±6,6 years (range 54-93y/o); 111 (60,6%) were men and more frequent rhythm was permanent atrial fibrillation (160), including those in which a node ablation was performed in the same procedure (22). Clinical and echocardiographyc characteristics are described in table 1.Mean follow-up was of 26 ±10 months including: 64 patient at 24 months, 46 at 36 months and 7 patients at 48 months. Electrical parameters are represented in figure 1, which were stable and flawless at long term follow-up. Total complications were 3,3%, with only 2 patient requiring surgery for resolution (1,7%), and all were acute during LPM implantation. A total of 17 patients (9,3%) died with no relation to pacemaker. Conclusions In our experience, leadless pacemakers electrical performance continues stable, appropriate at long term follow-up, and no other complications developed. Baseline Characteristics of Patients Age(years) 79.2 ± 6.6[54-93] Male gender, n (%) 118 (60.6%) Hypertension, n (%) 149 (81.7%) Diabetes mellitus, n (%) 64 (34.9%) COPD, n (%) 33(18.3%) Renal dysfunction, n (%) 30 (16.7%) Valvular disease, n (%) 74 (41.1%) Atrial Fibrillation, n (%) 161 (98.0%) LVEF(%) 60.0 ± 8 OAC, n (%) 123(67.2%) NOAC, n (%) 23 (10.0%) Abstract Figure. Electrical performance

Introduction: Today's healthcare policies rely heavily on data that has been gathered from multiple small studies in intrinsically varied populations. We sought to describe the prevalence, comorbidities and outcomes of atrial fibrillation (AF) in the population of a specific region where all healthcare centers have implemented a common information technology (IT) structure. Methods: The total number of inhabitants was obtained from the healthcare area's IT system. Information pertaining to AF was derived from various datasets in the data warehouse of the Galician regional health service. Results: In the healthcare area of Santiago de Compostela (n=383 000), the diagnosis of AF was coded in 7990 (2.08%) individuals in 2013. Mean age was 76.83±10.5 years, mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was 3.5, 4056 (50.8%) were female and 72.6% were receiving oral anticoagulants. Up until December 31, 2015, 1361 patients died from all causes (17%), 478 (6%) of them in-hospital, with 30 deaths secondary to intracranial bleeding (0.4%) and 125 to stroke (1.6%). On multivariate analysis, age, gender, heart failure, diabetes, previous thromboembolic events and dementia were independently associated with all-cause mortality. Similarly, age, gender and previous thromboembolic events were associated with future thromboembolic events. Oral anticoagulation was found to be protective against mortality and thromboembolic events. Conclusions: In this study, we report for the first time the true prevalence of diagnosed AF and its clinical characteristics, treatment and prognosis in a Spanish healthcare area, based on the systematic integration of data available from a universally adopted health IT system within the region. Resumo: Introdução: As políticas dos cuidados de saúde confiam essencialmente em dados provenientes de múltiplos pequenos estudos no âmbito de populações diversificadas. Desejamos descrever a prevalência, as comorbilidades e os resultados da fibrilhação auricular (FA) numa população pertencente a uma área específica onde os centros dos cuidados de saúde implementaram uma estrutura informática comum. Métodos: O número total de habitantes foi obtido através do sistema informático das áreas dos cuidados de saúde. A informação relativa à FA provém de diversos conjuntos de dados proveniente do banco de dados do Serviço Saúde da Galiza. Resultados: Na área dos cuidados de saúde de Santiago de Compostela (n = 348 985), ao longo de 2013, o diagnóstico de FA foi codificado em 7990 (2,08%) indivíduos. A idade média foi 76,83 ± 10,5 anos, valor médio CHA2DS2-VASc = 3,5, sendo 4056 (50,8%) mulheres, 72,6% das quais administradas com anticoagulantes orais. Até 31 de dezembro de 2015, 1361 doentes morreram de mortalidade geral (17%). Destes, 478 (6%) estavam internados, tendo sido registadas 30 mortes secundárias a hemorragia intracraneana (0,4%) e 125 acidentes vasculares cerebrais (1,6%). Numa análise multivariável, a idade, o sexo, a insuficiência cardíaca, a diabetes, os eventos tromboembólicos e a demência foram associados independentemente da mortalidade em geral. Do mesmo modo, a idade, o sexo e o(s) tromboembólico(s) prévio(s) foram associados à ocorrência de futuros eventos tromboembólicos. Considerou-se que a anticoagulação oral teve um efeito protetor na mortalidade e nos eventos tromboembólicos. Conclusões: Neste estudo, apresentamos pela primeira vez a prevalência real da FA diagnosticada, com as características clínicas, tratamento e prognóstico de uma área específica de cuidados de saúde em Espanha, em conformidade com a integração sistemática dos dados disponíveis num processamento informático sanitário adotado na região. Keywords: Big data, CHA2DS2-VASc, Atrial fibrillation, Palavras-chave: Bancos de dados, CHA2DS2-VASC2, Fibrilhação auricular

Supraventricular arrhythmias are common in Brugada syndrome (BS), and notoriously difficult to manage with medical therapy secondary to associated risks. Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is often utilized instead, but its outcomes in this population are not well‐known. We aim to provide a holistic evaluation of interventional treatment for Atrial fibrillation (AF) in the BS population. Electronic databases Medline, Embase, Cinahl, Cochrane, and Scopus were systematically searched for publications between 01/01/1995 and 12/31/2017. Studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 49 patients with BS and AF were included. Age range from 28.8 to 64 years, and 77.5% were male. 38 patients were implanted with implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICD) at baseline, and of them, 39% suffered inappropriate shocks for rapid AF. 34/49 (69%) of patients achieved remission following a single PVI procedure. Of the remaining, 13 patients underwent one or more repeat ablation procedures. Overall, 45/49 (91.8%) of patients remained in remission during long‐term follow‐up after one or more PVI procedures in the absence of antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy. Postablation, no patients suffered inappropriate ICD shock. Furthermore, no major complications secondary to PVI occurred in any patient. AF ablation achieves acute and long‐term success in the vast majority of patients. It is effective in preventing inappropriate ICD therapy secondary to rapid AF. Complication rates of PVI in BS are low. Thus, in light of the risks of AADs and risk of inappropriate ICD shocks in the BS population, catheter ablation could represent an appropriate first‐line therapy for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in BS patients.

Background: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is indicated in symptomatic heart failure (HF) patients after achieving optimal medical therapy. However, there are still a large percentage of patients who do not respond to CRT. Malnutrition is a frequent comorbidity in patients with HF, and it is associated with a poorer prognosis. Here, we evaluate the nutritional status of patients assessed by Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score and its association with structural remodeling and cardiovascular events. Methods: We investigated the effect of CONUT on HF/death in 302 consecutive patients with a CRT device implanted between 2005 and 2015 in a single tertiary center. We categorized the patients into three groups: normal nutritional status (CONUT 0–1), mild malnutrition (CONUT 2–4) and moderate-severe malnutrition (CONUT ≥ 5). Changes in nutritional status were assessed in patients with mild-to-severe malnutrition prior to CRT. Results: One hundred and forty-eight patients exhibited normal nutritional status (49.0%), 99 patients exhibited mild malnutrition (32.8%) and 55 patients exhibited moderate-severe malnutrition (18.2%). CONUT scores of at least 2 were associated with higher risk of HF/death compared with CONUT 0–1. Significant left ventricular (LV) reverse remodeling was noted in patients with better nutritional status. In addition, those malnutrition patients at baseline that improved nutritional state exhibited fewer HF/death events at follow-up. Conclusion: CONUT score prior to CRT was an independent risk factor of death/HF and was correlated with LV reverse remodeling. Improvements in CONUT score during long-term follow-up were associated with a reduction in the rate of HF/death. Keywords: Cardiac resynchronization therapy, Heart failure, Malnutrition, CONUT score

To analyze the clinical profile and therapeutic strategy in atrial fibrillation (AF) according to gender in a contemporaneous patient cohort a prospective, multicenter observational study was performed on consecutive patients diagnosed with AF and assessed by cardiology units in the region of Galicia (Spain). A total of 1007 patients were included, of which 32.3% were women. The mean age of the women was significantly greater than that of the men (71.6 versus 65.7 years, p &lt, 0.001), with a higher prevalence of hypertension (HTN) and valve disease. Women more often reported symptoms related to arrhythmia (28.2% in EHRA class I versus 36.4% in men), with a poorer level of symptoms (EHRA classes IIb and III). Thromboembolic risk was significantly higher among women (CHA2DS2-VASc 3 ± 1.3 versus 2 ± 1.5), in the same way as bleeding risk (HAS-BLED 0.83 ± 0.78 versus 0.64 ± 0.78) (p &lt, 0.001), and women more often received anticoagulation therapy (94.1% versus 87.6%, p = 0.001). Rhythm control strategies proved significantly less frequent in women (55.8% versus 66.6%, p = 0.001), with a lesser electrical cardioversion (ECV) rate (18.4% versus 27.3%, p = 0.002). Perceived health status was poorer in women. Women were older and presented greater comorbidity than men, with a greater thromboembolic and bleeding risk. Likewise, rhythm control strategies were less frequent than in men, despite the fact that women had poorer perceived quality of life and were more symptomatic.

QT interval prolongation is an important marker for the development of cardiac arrhythmias (CAs). Optimal methods to estimate QT/QTc intervals in patients with ventricular pacing (VP) and its correlation with CA have not been widely investigated. We aimed to validate the currently available formulas for QT determination during VP and to compare their abilities in predicting the occurrence of CA (atrial fibrillation [AF] and malignant ventricular arrhythmias [VAs] in patients with advanced heart failure and cardiac resynchronization therapy). Consecutive patients with advanced heart failure who underwent cardiac resynchronization therapy implantation between August 2001 and April 2015 were included in a retrospective study. Four proposed formulas for QT correction in VP rhythms were evaluated. One hundred eighty patients were enrolled. During 44 months of follow-up, 43 patients (37.7%) developed AF and 16 patients (8.9%) developed VA. There was no correlation between corrected QT increments and AF risk with any of the formulas for paced rhythms. Regarding VA, higher corrected QT values measured with Massachusetts' formula (QTcM) were found to have a higher risk of event (p = 0.036) (Beta = 1.012 [1.001 to 1.023]). Each 1 ms increase in QTc increased the probability of experiencing VA by 12‰. QTcM >444 was found to be a strong predictor of VA. In conclusion, there are significant differences in mean QTc interval measured by the currently advised formulas. QTc interval was not associated with AF in any of the formulas. Only the QTcM formula showed a significant stepwise increase in the risk of experiencing malignant VA.

Background: Age increases risk of stroke and bleeding. Clinical trial data have had relatively low proportions of elderly subjects. We sought to study a Spanish population of octogenarians with atrial fibrillation (AF) by combining different sources of electronic clinical records from an area where all medical centres utilized electronic health record systems. Methods: Data was derived from the Galician Healthcare Service information system. Results: From 383,000 subjects, AF was coded in 7990 (2.08%), 3640 (45.6%) of whom were >= 80 and 4350 (54.4%) = 80, 2178 (59.8%) were women. Mean CHA(2)DS(2)-VASc was 4.2 +/- 1.1. Distribution of CHA(2)DS(2)-VASc components varied between genders. 2600 (71.4%) were on oral anticoagulant (OA). During a median follow up of 696 days (124.23), all-cause mortality was higher in >= 80 (1011/3640 (27.8%) vs 350/4350 (8.05%) (p < 0.001). There were differences in rate of thromboembolic (TE) and haemorrhagic events (2.3% vs 0.9%, p < 0.01 and 2.5% vs 1.7%, p = 0.01 respectively). In octogenarian, differences between genders were observed with regard to TE, but not in haemorrhagic or all-cause mortality rates. Age, heart failure, non-valvular AF, dementia, and OA were independent predictors of all-cause mortality. In regard to TE, female gender, hypertension, previous TE and OA were independent predictive factors. Conclusions: Octogenarians with AF had very different characteristics and outcomes from their younger counterparts. These results also provide reassurance about the effectiveness of OA in preventing TE events and maintaining a reasonable haemorrhagic event rate in the extremely elderly. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Resumen Introduccion y objetivos Actualmente hay pocos estudios sobre el marcapasos sin cable (Micra) en la practica clinica, especialmente con seguimientos > 6 meses. El objetivo es evaluar los parametros electricos al implante y en el seguimiento, asi como la seguridad de esta nueva tecnica. Metodos Estudio prospectivo y observacional en el que se incluyo a 30 pacientes consecutivos de edad ≥ 65 anos con indicacion de implante de marcapasos unicameral. Resultados Se implanto exitosamente el Micra en los 30 pacientes incluidos. La media de edad era 79,4 ± 6,4 (66-89) anos; 20 (66,6%) eran varones; 28 (93,3%) presentaban fibrilacion auricular permanente; 1, taquicardia auricular y 1, ritmo sinusal. En 5 pacientes (16,6%) se realizo ablacion del nodulo auriculoventricular en el mismo procedimiento (4 pacientes en fibrilacion auricular rapida y 1 con taquicardia auricular); en 2 pacientes la indicacion fue tras el implante percutaneo de valvula aortica. En 23 (76,6%) el implante se realizo estando en tratamiento anticoagulante oral (INR maximo, 2,4). No hubo complicaciones mayores, salvo un derrame pericardico moderado sin repercusion hemodinamica. El seguimiento medio fue de 5,3 ± 3,3 meses y 4 pacientes superaron el ano de seguimiento. Los parametros de estimulacion fueron excelentes tanto en el implante como en el seguimiento a corto-medio plazo. Conclusiones El implante de marcapasos sin cables es factible y seguro y presenta potenciales ventajas sobre los sistemas convencionales. Seran necesarios estudios con mayor seguimiento antes de generalizar su uso en la practica clinica diaria.