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Jeannette A Goudzwaard,1 Eleonora Disegna,1 Marjo JAG de Ronde-Tillmans,2 Mattie J Lenzen,2 Peter PT de Jaegere,2 Francesco US Mattace-Raso11Section of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands; 2Department of Interventional Cardiology, Thoraxcenter, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the NetherlandsBackground: Both aortic valve stenosis and aortic stiffness are moderators of arterio ventricular coupling and independent predictors of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Studies on the effect of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) on aortic functional properties are limited. We performed a study to investigate the possible short-term changes in aortic stiffness and other aortic functional properties after TAVI in older patients.Methods: TAVI Care&Cure is an observational ongoing study including consecutive patients undergoing a TAVI procedure. Central and peripheral hemodynamic measurements were measured non invasively 1 day before (T-1) and 1 day after (T+1) TAVI using a validated oscillometric method using a brachial cuff (Mobil-O-Graph).Results: 40 patients were included. Mean aortic valve area at baseline was 0.76±0.24 cm2. Indices of severity of aortic valve stenosis improved significantly. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) dropped by 8.5%, from 130.3±22.9 mmHg to 119.5±15.8 mmHg (p=0.005). Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) dropped by 13.1% from 74.8±14.5 mmHg to 65.0±11.3 mmHg (p

OBJECTIVE: Self-perceived health status may be helpful in identifying patients at high risk for adverse outcomes. The Euro Heart Survey on Coronary Revascularization (EHS-CR) provided an opportunity to explore whether impaired health status was a predictor of 1-year mortality in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing angiographic procedures. METHODS: Data from the EHS-CR that included 5619 patients from 31 member countries of the European Society of Cardiology were used. Inclusion criteria for the current study were completion of a self-report measure of health status, the EuroQol Questionnaire (EQ-5D) at discharge and information on 1-year follow-up, resulting in a study population of 3786 patients. RESULTS: The 1-year mortality was 3.2% (n = 120). Survivors reported fewer problems on the five dimensions of the EQ-5D as compared with non-survivors. A broad range of potential confounders were adjusted for, which reached a p<0.10 in the unadjusted analyses. In the adjusted analyses, problems with self-care (OR 3.45; 95% CI 2.14 to 5.59) and a low rating (< or =60) on health status (OR 2.41; 95% CI 1.47 to 3.94) were the most powerful independent predictors of mortality, among the 22 clinical variables included in the analysis. Furthermore, patients who reported no problems on all five dimensions had significantly lower 1-year mortality rates (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.28 to 0.81). CONCLUSIONS: This analysis shows that impaired health status is associated with a 2-3-fold increased risk of all-cause mortality in patients with CAD, independent of other conventional risk factors. These results highlight the importance of including patients' subjective experience of their own health status in the evaluation strategy to optimise risk stratification and management in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Preparatory information before an invasive procedure has positive effects (e.g. on recovery, well-being and anxiety). However, preparation of patients for a repeat procedure is hardly investigated. The question is whether these patients benefit from the same preparatory information. AIMS: To determine whether there are differences in terms of anxiety and well-being between patients undergoing their first percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) and those undergoing a repeat PTCA. DESIGN: Descriptive correlational study with a quantitative and qualitative research component. METHOD: First-time PTCA patients (n=46) and re-PTCA patients (n=40) were asked to complete three psychological self-report questionnaires (HADS, HPPQ and VAS) before the procedure. Five re-PTCA patients were interviewed the day after the procedure. RESULTS: We were not able to show statistically significant differences between the two groups. On the anxiety scales re-PTCA patients scored 6.5 (HADS) and 4.0 (VAS) vs. 5.0 (P=0.25) and 2.6 (P=0.30) for first-time PTCA patients. On well-being (HPPQ) these differences were 18.0 vs. 19.0 (P=0.40). Once the interview data were coded, four themes were apparent, namely: recurrent symptoms, information, experience and future prospects. CONCLUSION: A trend is seen towards a worse condition in the re-PTCA group with respect to anxiety and well-being. However, the differences are not statistically significant, they seem to be clinically relevant. The interviews point out that the return of symptoms and future prospects, rather than the procedure itself, are an important part in preparing for a repeat intervention. This aspect is currently no part of the provided preparatory information. Future research will have to determine the most beneficial method of preparing these patients (e.g. tailored preparation, emotional support, coaching). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The use of an antibacterial envelope is cost-effective for patients at high risk of developing cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infection. The identification of these high-risk patients may be facilitated using a clinical risk score. The aim of the current study is to evaluate the PADIT score for identifying high-risk patients in patients undergoing a CIED procedure in a tertiary academic center., Methods: This was a retrospective single-center study of consecutive patients undergoing a CIED procedure between January 2016 and November 2021. Patients who received an antibacterial envelope were excluded from this study. The primary endpoint was hospitalization for a CIED infection in the first year after the procedure., Results: A total of 2333 CIED procedures were performed in the study period (mean age 61.6 ± 16.3 years, male sex 64.5%, previous CIED infection 1.7%, immunocompromised 5.4%). The median PADIT score was 4 (interquartile range, 2-6). CIED infection occurred in 10 patients (0.43%). The PADIT score had good discrimination in predicting major CIED infection (C-statistic 0.70; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.54 to 0.86, P = 0.03). Using an optimal PADIT score cut-off value of 7, the risk of CIED infection was higher in the patients with a PADIT score of ≥ 7 in comparison to those with a lower PADIT score (1.23% vs. 0.26%, P = 0.02; odds ratio 4.8, 95% CI 1.4 to 16.6, P = 0.01)., Conclusions: The PADIT score is a clinically useful score for identifying patients at high risk of developing CIED infection. The use of an antibacterial envelope in these high-risk patients may be cost-effective., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is considered a safe and effective alternative to surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) for elderly patients across the operative risk spectrum. In the Netherlands, TAVI is reimbursed only for patients with a high operative risk. Despite this, one fifth of TAVI patients are < 75 years of age. We aim to compare patient characteristics and outcomes of TAVI and SAVR patients < 75 years., Methods: This study included all patients < 75 years without active endocarditis undergoing TAVI or SAVR for severe aortic stenosis, mixed aortic valve disease or degenerated aortic bioprosthesis between 2015 and 2020 at the Erasmus University Medical Centre. Dutch authority guidelines were used to classify operative risk., Results: TAVI was performed in 292 patients, SAVR in 386 patients. Based on the Dutch risk algorithm, 59.6% of TAVI patients and 19.4% of SAVR patients were at high operative risk. There was no difference in 30-day all-cause mortality between TAVI and SAVR (2.4% vs 0.8%, p = 0.083). One-year and 5‑year mortality was higher after TAVI than after SAVR (1-year: 12.5% vs 4.3%, p < 0.001; 5‑year: 36.8% vs 12.0%, p < 0.001). Within risk categories we found no difference between treatment strategies. Independent predictors of mortality were cardiovascular comorbidities (left ventricular ejection fraction < 30%, atrial fibrillation, pulmonary hypertension) and the presence of malignancies, liver cirrhosis or immunomodulatory drug use., Conclusion: At the Erasmus University Medical Centre, in patients < 75 years, TAVI is selected for higher-risk phenotypes and overall has higher long-term mortality than SAVR. We found no evidence for worse outcome within risk categories., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objective: Previously published results of the OPTICARE XL open label randomized controlled trial showed no added value of OPTICARE XL CR, a dedicated cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program for patients with obesity, with respect to health-related quality of life (primary outcome). This clinical trial studied the effects of OPTICARE XL CR on several secondary outcomes, which included body weight, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and physical fitness., Methods: Patients with coronary artery disease or atrial fibrillation and body mass index ≥ 30 were randomized to OPTICARE XL CR (n = 102) or standard CR (n = 99). OPTICARE XL CR was a 1-year group intervention, specifically designed for patients with obesity that included aerobic and strength exercise, behavioral coaching, and an aftercare program. Standard CR consisted of a 6- to 12-week group aerobic exercise program, supplemented with cardiovascular lifestyle education. Study end points included body weight, physical activity, sedentary behavior (accelerometer), and physical fitness (6-Minute Walk Test and handgrip strength), which were evaluated 6 months after the end of CR (primary endpoint) and 3 months after the start of CR., Results: Six months after completion of either program, improvements in body weight, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and physical fitness were similar between the groups. Three months after CR start, patients randomized to OPTICARE XL CR showed greater weight loss (mean change = -3.6 vs -1.8 kg) and a larger improvement in physical activity (+880 vs +481 steps per day) than patients randomized to standard CR., Conclusion: Patients allocated to OPTICARE XL CR lost significantly more body weight and showed promising results with respect to physical activity 3 months after the start of CR; however, these short-term results were not expanded or sustained in the longer term., Impact: Patients with obesity do not benefit from standard CR programs. The new OPTICARE XL CR program showed its effects in the short term on weight loss and physical activity, and, therefore, redesign of the aftercare phase is recommended., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Physical Therapy Association.)

Background: Segmental postpercutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) pressure gradients may detect residual disease and potential targets for optimization. However, universal definitions of relevant segmental gradients are lacking., Objectives: This study sought to evaluate the diagnostic performance of post-PCI fractional flow reserve (FFR), distal coronary pressure-to-aortic pressure ratio (Pd/Pa), and diastolic pressure ratio (dPR) gradients to detect residual focal lesions and stent underexpansion as observed by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)., Methods: Patients from the IVUS-guided optimization arm of the FFR REACT (FFR-guided PCI Optimization Directed by High-Definition IVUS Versus Standard of Care) trial with complete IVUS and FFR pullback data were included. Patients with angiographically successful PCI and post-PCI FFR <0.90 underwent FFR, Pd/Pa, and IVUS pullbacks. dPR was calculated offline using dedicated software. Segmental pressure gradients (distal, in stent, and proximal) in segments ≥5 mm were evaluated against IVUS-detected residual disease (distal or proximal focal lesions and stent underexpansion)., Results: A total of 139 vessels were included (mean post-PCI FFR: 0.83 ± 0.05, range 0.56-0.89). Focal distal and proximal lesions were detected by IVUS in 23 (17.4%) of 132 and 14 (12.6%) of 111 vessels, respectively, whereas stent underexpansion was present in 86 (61.9%) vessels. Diagnostic ability of segmental FFR gradients to predict IVUS-detected distal and proximal lesions was moderate-to-good (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.69 and 0.84, respectively) and poor to moderate for segmental Pd/Pa and dPR gradients (AUC ranging from 0.58 to 0.69). In-stent gradients had no discriminative ability to detect stent underexpansion (FFR AUC: 0.52; Pd/Pa AUC: 0.54; dPR AUC: 0.55)., Conclusions: In patients with post-PCI FFR <0.90, segmental post-PCI pressure gradients have moderate discriminative ability to identify IVUS-detected focal lesions but no discriminative ability to identify IVUS-detected stent underexpansion., Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures The Erasmus Medical Center received institutional research support from ACIST Medical Systems, Inc. Ms Neleman and Dr Diletti have received institutional grant support from ACIST Medical Systems. Dr Van Mieghem has received institutional research grant support from Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific, Edwards Lifesciences, Medtronic, Daiichi Sankyo, PulseCath BV, and Abiomed. Dr Daemen has received institutional grant/research support from Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific, ACIST Medical Systems, Medtronic, Pie Medical, and ReCor medical; and received consulting and lecture fees from Abbott Vascular, Abiomed, ACIST Medical Systems, Boston Scientific, Cardialysis BV, CardiacBooster, Kaminari Medical, ReCor Medical, PulseCath, Pie Medical, Sanofi, Siemens Health Care and Medtronic. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Purpose We studied the effectiveness of a new cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program developed for patients with obesity compared with standard CR on HRQOL and psychosocial well-being. Materials and methods OPTICARE XL was a multicentre RCT in patients with cardiac disease and obesity (Netherlands Trial Register: NL5589). Patients were randomized to OPTICARE XL CR ( n  = 102) or standard CR ( n  = 99). The one-year OPTICARE XL CR group program included endurance and resistance exercises, behavioural coaching, and after-care. Standard CR consisted of a 6- to 12-week endurance exercise group program, and cardiovascular lifestyle education. Primary endpoint was HRQOL (MacNew) at six months post CR. Second, we assessed anxiety and depression (both HADS), fatigue (FSS), and participation in society (USER-P). Results In both groups, improvements in HRQOL were observed six months post CR. Mean HRQOL improved from 4.92 to 5.40 in standard CR [mean change (95% CI): 0.48 (0.28, 0.67)] and from 4.96 to 5.45 in OPTICARE XL CR (mean change (95% CI): 0.49 (0.29, 0.70), without between-group differences. Psychosocial well-being improvements within both groups were obtained at six months post CR, regardless of allocated program. Conclusions OPTICARE XL CR did not have added value in improving HRQOL and psychosocial well-being in patients with obesity.Implications for rehabilitationMore than a third of cardiac patients suffers from obesity, and standard cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are suboptimal in this increasing patient population.The OPTICARE XL CR program is a state-of-the art, one-year CR program designed for patients with obesity including aerobic and strength exercises, behavioural coaching towards a healthy diet and an active lifestyle, and after-care.Improvements in HRQOL and psychosocial well-being were comparable between patients with obesity allocated to standard CR and OPTICARE XL CR.Therefore, there was no additional benefit of OPTICARE XL CR.

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is now an established treatment strategy for elderly patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS) across the entire operative risk spectrum. Streamlined TAVR protocols along with reduced procedure time and expedited ambulation promote early hospital discharge. Selection of patients suitable for safe early discharge after TAVR might improve healthcare efficiency., Study Design: The POLESTAR trial is an international, multi-center, prospective, observational study which aims to evaluate the safety of early discharge in selected patients who undergo TAVR with the supra-annular functioning self-expanding ACURATE Neo transcatheter heart valve (THV). A total of 250 patients will be included based on a set of baseline criteria indicating potential early discharge (within 48 h post-TAVR). Primary study endpoints include Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC)-3 defined safety at 30 days and VARC-3 defined efficacy at 30 days and 1 year. Endpoints will be compared between early discharge and non-early discharge cohorts with a distinct landmark analysis at 48 h post-TAVR. Secondary endpoints include quality of life assessed using EQ5D-5L and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) questionnaires and resource costs compared between discharge groups., Summary: The POLESTAR trial prospectively evaluates safety and feasibility of an early discharge protocol for TAVR using the ACURATE Neo THV., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Dr. Cornelis serves as a proctor for Boston Scientific. Dr. Cunnington has received fees for speaking at educational meetings from Medtronic and Abbott Vascular. Dr. Hildick-Smith is a proctor and advisor of Edwards Lifesciences, Medtronic, Abbott Vascular and Boston Scientific. Prof. Dr. Van Mieghem is a member of the advisory board of Abbot Vascular, Boston Scientific, Medtronic and a member of the scientific board of PulseCath B.V. The other authors have no conflict of interest to declare. Individual files with the ICMJE forms will be provided separately., (Copyright © 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Transcatheter valvular interventions affect cardiac and hemodynamic physiology by changing ventricular (un-)loading and metabolic demand as reflected by cardiac mechanoenergetics. Real-time quantifications of these changes are scarce. Pressure-volume loop (PVL) monitoring appraises both load-dependent and load-independent compounds of cardiac physiology including myocardial work, ventricular unloading, and ventricular-vascular interactions. The primary objective is to describe changes in physiology induced by transcatheter valvular interventions using periprocedural invasive biventricular PVL monitoring. The study hypothesizes transcatheter valve interventions modify cardiac mechanoenergetics that translate into improved functional status at 1-month and 1-year follow-up., Methods: In this single-center prospective study, invasive PVL analysis is performed in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement or tricuspid or mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair. Clinical follow-up is per standard of care at 1 and 12 months. This study aims to include 75 transcatheter aortic valve replacement patients and 41 patients in both transcatheter edge-to-edge repair cohorts., Results: The primary outcome is the periprocedural change in stroke work, potential energy, and pressure-volume area (mmHg mL -1 ). The secondary outcomes comprise changes in a myriad of parameters obtained by PVL measurements, including ventricular volumes and pressures and the end-systolic elastance-effective arterial elastance ratio as a reflection of ventricular-vascular coupling. A secondary endpoint associates these periprocedural changes in cardiac mechanoenergetics with functional status at 1 month and 1 year., Conclusions: This prospective study aims to elucidate the fundamental changes in cardiac and hemodynamic physiology during contemporary transcatheter valvular interventions., Competing Interests: A.J.M.v.d.E. received personal fees from Abiomed and speaker fees from Angiodynamics. M.B.B. received personal fees from PulseCath. J.J.S. reported working and financial relationship with CD Leycom. J.J.B. received research grants and speaker fees from Abbott. J.D. received institutional grant/research support from Astra Zeneca, Abbott, Boston Scientific, ACIST Medical, Medtronic, Pie Medical, ReCor Medical. N.M.V.M. received grant support from Abbott, Boston Scientific, Biotronik, Edwards Lifesciences, Medtronic, PulseCath BV, Abiomed, Daiichi Sankyo, Materialise, Pie Medical and Siemens. The other authors have no disclosure., (© 2022 The Author(s).)

Introduction: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has matured to the treatment of choice for most patients with aortic stenosis (AS). We sought to identify trends in patient and procedural characteristics, and clinical outcomes in all patients who underwent TAVI between 2005 and 2020., Methods: A single-centre analysis was performed on 1500 consecutive patients who underwent TAVI, divided into three tertiles (T) of 500 patients treated between November 2005 and December 2014 (T1), January 2015 and May 2018 (T2) and June 2018 and April 2020 (T3)., Results: Over time, mean age and gender did not change (T1 to T3: 80, 80 and 79 years and 53%, 55% and 52% men, respectively), while the Society of Thoracic Surgeons risk score declined (T1: 4.5% to T3: 2.7%, p < 0.001). Use of general anaesthesia also declined over time (100%, 24% and 1% from T1 to T3) and transfemoral TAVI remained the default approach (87%, 94% and 92%). Median procedure time and contrast volume decreased significantly (186, 114 and 56 min and 120, 100 and 80 ml, respectively). Thirty-day mortality (7%, 4% and 2%), stroke (7%, 3% and 3%), need for a pacemaker (19%, 22% and 8%) and delirium (17%, 12% and 8%) improved significantly, while major bleeding/vascular complications did not change (both approximately 9%, 6% and 6%). One-year survival was 80%, 88% and 92%, respectively., Conclusion: Over our 15 years' experience, patient age remained unchanged but the patient risk profile became more favourable. Simplification of the TAVI procedure occurred in parallel with major improvement in outcomes and survival. Bleeding/vascular complications and the need for pacemaker implantation remain the Achilles' heel of TAVI., (© 2022. The Author(s).)

Background: Post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) fractional flow reserve (FFR) <0.90 is common and has been related to impaired patient outcome., Objectives: The authors sought to evaluate if PCI optimization directed by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in patients with post-PCI FFR <0.90 could improve 1-year target vessel failure (TVF) rates., Methods: In this single-center, randomized, double-blind trial, patients with a post-PCI FFR <0.90 at the time of angiographically successful PCI were randomized to IVUS-guided optimization or the standard of care (control arm). The primary endpoint was TVF (a composite of cardiac death, spontaneous target vessel myocardial infarction, and clinically driven target vessel revascularization) at 1 year., Results: A total of 291 patients with post-PCI FFR <0.90 were randomized (IVUS-guided optimization arm: n = 145/152 vessels, control arm: n = 146/157 vessels). The mean post-PCI FFR was 0.84 ± 0.05. A total of 104 (68.4%) vessels in the IVUS-guided optimization arm underwent additional optimization including additional stenting (34.9%) or postdilatation only (33.6%), resulting in a mean increase in post-PCI FFR in these vessels from 0.82 ± 0.06 to 0.85 ± 0.05 (P < 0.001) and a post-PCI FFR ≥0.90 in 20% of the vessels. The 1-year TVF rate was comparable between the 2 study arms (IVUS-guided optimization arm: 4.2%, control arm: 4.8%; P = 0.79). There was a trend toward a lower incidence of clinically driven target vessel revascularization in the IVUS-guided optimization arm (0.7% vs. 4.2%, P = 0.06)., Conclusions: IVUS-guided post-PCI FFR optimization significantly improved post-PCI FFR. Because of lower-than-expected event rates, post-PCI FFR optimization did not significantly lower TVF at the 1-year follow-up., Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures The Erasmus Medical Center received institutional research support from ACIST Medical Systems, Inc. Dr Diletti has received institutional research grant support from ACIST Medical Systems, Inc. Dr Van Mieghem has received institutional research grant support from Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific, Edwards Lifesciences, Medtronic, Daiichi-Sankyo, PulseCath BV, and Abiomed. Dr Daemen has received institutional grant/research support from AstraZeneca, Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific, ACIST Medical Systems, Inc, Medtronic, Pie Medical, and ReCor medical. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2022 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

This study sought to investigate gender differences in clinical presentation, presence, and extent of coronary artery disease (CAD), and all-cause mortality in patients with stable chest pain who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). Patients who visited the fast-track outpatient clinic of the Erasmus Medical Center and underwent CCTA were analyzed. Clinical characteristics of chest pain, CAD on CCTA, coronary artery calcium scores, and survival were collected retrospectively and compared between men and women. Logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for the presence of CAD and Cox regression for all-cause mortality. In 1,835 included patients, 966 (52.6%) were female. Men and women were similar in age (55 vs 56 years). Compared with men, women had a lower frequency of typical pain (22.8% vs 31.1%, p <0.001), lower prevalence of significant CAD (22.2% vs 38.1%, p <0.001), and lower coronary artery calcium scores (p <0.001). CAD was more prevalent in men than in women with typical pain (67.4% vs 35.9%, p <0.001) and also with nontypical pain (24.9% vs 18.1%, p = 0.002). After adjustment for baseline characteristic, male sex was associated with all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio 1.87, 95% confidence interval 1.25 to 2.80, p = 0.002). The additional risk of mortality because of CAD was similar between men and women. Stratifying by typical and nontypical pain, women again had a better prognosis. Our study identifies gender-related differences in characteristics, CCTA-findings, and outcomes for women compared with men presenting for CCTA with chest pain. Women have less CAD and a better prognosis than men, the clinical implications of which require further study., Competing Interests: Disclosures The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare., (Copyright © 2022 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) may hamper the outcome of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, SDB is underdiagnosed in clinical practice and the relevancy of undiagnosed SDB on the outcome of catheter ablation is unclear., Objective: To evaluate if undiagnosed SDB has an impact on AF recurrence after catheter ablation., Methods: In this single-center cohort study we enrolled patients who had a catheter ablation of AF 12 to 18 months prior to enrolment. Patients with diagnosed SDB at the time of catheter ablation were excluded. Enrolled patients underwent screening using WatchPAT (WP). SDB was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 15., Results: A total of 164 patients were screened for eligibility. After exclusion of patients with previously diagnosed SDB (n = 30), 104 of 134 eligible patients were enrolled and underwent SDB screening. The median AHI was 11.5 (interquartile range 6.8-21.9) and 39 patients (38%) had SDB which was undiagnosed during the first year after ablation. AF recurrence in the first year after catheter ablation occurred in 40 patients (38%). The risk of AF recurrence was higher in the group with undiagnosed SDB in comparison to those without SDB (51% versus 31%, P = 0.04). Interestingly, the prevalence of AF recurrence was similar between patients with previously diagnosed and undiagnosed SDB (51% versus 50%, P = 0.92)., Conclusion: A significant proportion of patients undergoing catheter ablation of AF have undiagnosed SDB which is associated with a twofold higher risk of AF recurrence. SDB screening may improve patient counselling regarding the efficacy of catheter ablation., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2022 The Authors.)

Purpose: we evaluated the effects of the shift of a targeted temperature management (TTM) strategy from 33 °C to 36 °C in comatose out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Methods: we performed a retrospective study of all comatose (GCS < 8) OHCA patients treated with TTM from 2010 to 2018 (n = 798) from a single-center academic hospital. We analyzed 90-day mortality, and neurological outcome (CPC score) at ICU discharge and ICU length of stay, as primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Results: we included 798 OHCA patients (583 in the TTM33 group and 215 in the TTM36 group). We found no association between the TTM strategy (TTM33 and TTM36) and 90-day mortality (hazard ratio (HR)] 0.877, 95% CI 0.677−1.135, with TTM36 as reference). Also, no association was found between TTM strategy and favorable neurological outcome at ICU discharge (odds ratio (OR) 1.330, 95% CI 0.941−1.879). Patients in the TTM33 group had on average a longer ICU LOS (beta 1.180, 95% CI 0.222−2.138). Conclusion: no differences in clinical outcomes—both 90-day mortality and favorable neurological outcome at ICU discharge—were found between targeted temperature at 33 °C and 36 °C. These results may help to corroborate previous trial findings and assist in implementation of TTM.

Background: Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are the preferred choice of oral anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Randomized trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of DOAC in patients undergoing a cardiac implantable electronic device procedure (CIED); however, there is limited real-world data., Objective: To evaluate the outcome of patients undergoing an elective CIED procedure in a tertiary referral center with an interrupted DOAC or continued vitamin K antagonist (VKA) regimen., Methods: This was a retrospective single-center study of consecutive patients with AF undergoing an elective CIED procedure between January 2016 and June 2019. The primary endpoint was a clinically significant pocket hematoma < 30 days after surgery. The secondary endpoint was any systemic thromboembolic complication < 30 days after surgery., Results: Of a total of 1,033 elective CIED procedures, 283 procedures were performed in patients with AF using oral anticoagulation. One-third of the procedures were performed under DOAC (N = 81, 29%) and the remainder under VKA (N = 202, 71%). The DOAC group was younger, had less chronic renal disease, more paroxysmal AF and a lower HAS-BLED score. The VKA group more often underwent a generator change only in comparison to the DOAC group. Clinically significant pocket hematoma occurred in 5 patients (2.5%) in the VKA group and did not occur in the DOAC group ( P  = 0.33). There were no thromboembolic events reported., Conclusion: In patients with AF undergoing an elective CIED procedure, the risk of a pocket hematoma and a systemic thromboembolic event is comparably low when using either continued VKA or interrupted DOAC., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2022 The Author(s).)

Aims: Lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity (PA), are a cornerstone of treatment of patients with chronic heart failure (HF). However, improving PA in HF patients is challenging, and low participation rates for cardiac rehabilitation (CR) as well as relapse to low PA levels after CR are major issues. We designed a randomized controlled trial to investigate if PA monitoring with motivational feedback before and after centre-based CR in HF patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) will lead to a clinically meaningful increase in physical fitness., Methods and Results: A randomized controlled trial will be conducted in a sample of 180 HFrEF patients (New York Heart Association Class II/III) who are referred to 12-week standard CR. Patients will be randomized (2:1) to (1) standard of care (SoC) plus wearing a PA monitoring device (Fitbit Charge 3) with personalized step goals, feedback and motivation or (2) SoC only. The intervention lasts ±7 months: 4-5 weeks before CR, 12 weeks during CR and 12 weeks after CR. Measurements will take place at three time points. The primary endpoint is the change in the distance in 6-min walking test (6MWT) over the entire study period. Other endpoints include step count, grip strength, quality of life and all-cause mortality or hospitalization., Conclusions: HF-aPProACH will provide novel information on the effectiveness of remote PA stimulation and feedback before, during and after standard CR using a commercially available device to improve physical fitness in HFrEF patients., (© 2021 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Society of Cardiology.)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) class and physical activity and sedentary behavior in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) during cardiac rehabilitation (CR)., Methods: This study was a secondary analysis of the OPTICARE trial. Physical activity and sedentary behavior were measured in participants with ACS (n = 359) using actigraphy at baseline, directly after completion of a multidisciplinary 12-week exercise-based CR program and 9 months thereafter. Outcome measures were step count and duration of time (percentage of wear time) spent in light physical activity, moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, and sedentary behavior. Participants were classified as normal weight (BMI = 18.5-24.99 kg/m2; n = 82), overweight (BMI = 25.0-29.99 kg/m2; n = 182), or obese (BMI ≥ 30.0 kg/m2; n = 95). Linear mixed-effects models were applied to study the relationship between BMI class and physical activity and sedentary behavior., Results: At the start of CR, compared with participants with normal weight, participants with obesity made on average 1.11 steps fewer per minute (952 steps/d), spent 2.9% (25 min/d) less time in light physical activity, and spent 3.31% (28 min/d) more time in sedentary behavior. Participants of all BMI classes improved their physical activity and sedentary behavior levels similarly during CR, and these improvements were maintained after completion of CR., Conclusion: Participants with ACS who had obesity started CR with a less favorable physical activity and sedentary behavior profile than that of participants with normal weight. Because all BMI classes showed similar improvement during CR, this deficit was preserved., Impact: This study indicates that reconsideration of the CR program in the Netherlands for patients with ACS and obesity is warranted, and development of more inclusive interventions for specific populations is needed. A new program for people with obesity should include added counseling on increasing physical activity and preventing sedentary behavior to facilitate weight loss and reduce mortality risk., Lay Summary: People with ACS who have obesity are less active and sit more than individuals with normal weight, both during and after CR. This study suggests that CR needs to be changed to help individuals increase their physical activity to help them lose weight and reduce their risk of death., (© The Author(s) 2021. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the American Physical Therapy Association.)

Selecting patients with a high chance of endured benefit from transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is becoming relevant with changing indications and increasing number of TAVI being performed. The aim of our study was to investigate the association of the multidimensional prognostic index (MPI) based on a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) on survival. The TAVI Care & Cure program is a prospective, observational registry of patients referred for TAVI at the Erasmus MC University Medical Center. Consecutive patients who underwent a complete CGA and TAVI were included. CGA components were used to calculate the MPI score. The impact of the MPI score on survival was evaluated using Cox regression. Furthermore, 376 patients were included, 143 (38.0%) patients belonged to the MPI-1 group and 233 (61.9%) patients to the MPI-2-3 group. After 3 years, 14.9% of the patients in the MPI-1 group and 30.5% of the patients in the MPI-2-3 group died ( p = 0.001). Patients in MPI-1 had increased chances of overall survival in comparison with patients in MPI group 2-3 Hazard Ratio (HR) 0.57, (95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.33-0.98)). In this study we found that the MPI tool could be useful to assess frailty and to predict which patient will have a higher chance of enduring benefit from a TAVI procedure.

Aim: We aimed to assess the safety and feasibility of using CardioMEMS monitoring in patients before and after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) surgery. Patients & methods: Ten patients accepted for elective LVAD surgery were included, received a CardioMEMS at baseline and were categorized based on mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) ≤25 mmHg (n = 4) or mPAP >25 mmHg [n = 6]) before LVAD surgery. Results: The combined end point of all-cause mortality, acute kidney injury and/or renal replacement therapy, and right ventricular failure occurred more often in patients with an mPAP >25 mmHg (83 vs 0%, p = 0.017). Conclusion: This pilot study demonstrates that combining CardioMEMS monitoring with LVAD therapy is safe and generates the hypothesis that patients with an mPAP >25 mmHg before LVAD surgery identify a very high-risk group for adverse clinical outcomes.

Background: Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have emerged as the preferred choice of oral anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation. Randomized trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of DOAC in patients undergoing electrical cardioversion (ECV); however, there is limited real-world data., Objective: To evaluate the outcome of patients undergoing an elective ECV for atrial tachyarrhythmia in a tertiary referral center who were treated with DOAC or vitamin K antagonist (VKA) without routine trans esophageal echocardiography (TEE)., Methods: This was a retrospective single-center cohort study of consecutive patients undergoing an elective ECV for atrial tachyarrhythmia from January 2013 to February 2020. The primary endpoints were thromboembolism (composite of stroke, transient ischemic attack or systemic embolism) and major bleeding events within 60 days., Results: A total of 1431 ECV procedures were performed in 920 patients. One-third of the procedures were performed under DOAC (N = 488, 34%) and the remainder of the procedures was performed under VKA (N = 943, 66%). There were no differences between groups with regard to demographic variables (mean age 62.4 ± 11.7, 72% men) and mean CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score (2.3 ± 1.6); however, the VKA group had a higher proportion of patients with co-morbidity. Thromboembolism occurred in 0.41% in the DOAC group versus 0.64% in the VKA group (P = 0.72). Major bleeding events occurred in 0.41% in the DOAC group versus 0.11% in the VKA group (P = 0.27)., Conclusion: In a real-world population, the rates of thromboembolism and major bleeding events were low after elective ECV in patients using DOAC or VKA, even without routine TEE., (Copyright © 2020 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Treatment preferences in patients with left main (LM) stem disease and no prior revascularization are unknown. The objectives of this study were to determine (i) patient-reported importance ratings of particular features related to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, (ii) how these features determine treatment preference, and (iii) how educational and psychosocial background influence this preference., Methods: In this prospective, multicenter study a total of 500 patients without previous revascularization who underwent diagnostic angiography for suspected coronary disease were asked to complete a case-vignette on a (hypothetical) LM stenosis qualifying for both PCI and CABG, in addition to 6 validated questionnaires to assess the influence of psychosocial factors on treatment preference., Results: Overall, 90% favored PCI over CABG because of the lower bleeding and stroke risk despite a higher likelihood for repeat revascularization. By multivariable regression, the only independent determinant of treatment preference for CABG was lower educational level (14% in low vs. 8% in higher educated patients, OR: 3.22, CI: 1.16-8.95, p=0.025) while psychosocial variables were not associated. Compared to higher educated patients, those with lower educational level suffered more from depression, anxiety, loneliness, and uncertainty., Conclusions: Overall, patients who are informed about risk and benefits of each treatment modality clearly favor PCI over CABG and particularly value lower short-term morbidity while being aware of higher risk of repeat revascularization. Lower educational level was associated with a higher prevalence of psychosomatic phenotypes and a 14% preference for CABG. Educational and psychosocial background matter in the revascularization strategy decision-making process., (Copyright © 2020. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) brings symptom relief and improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in the majority of patients treated for symptomatic, severe aortic stenosis. However, there is a substantial group of patients that do not benefit from TAVI. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of frailty on HRQoL 1 year after TAVI., Methods: The TAVI Care & Cure Program is an ongoing, prospective, observational study including patients referred for TAVI to our institution. A comprehensive geriatric assessment was performed to evaluate existence of frailty using the Erasmus Frailty Score (EFS). HRQoL was assessed using the EQ-5D-5 L at baseline and 1 year after TAVI., Results: 239 patients underwent TAVI and completed HRQoL assessment 1 year after TAVI. Seventy (29.3%) patients were classified as frail (EFS ≥ 3). In non-frail patients, the EQ-5D-5 L index did not change (0.71(± 0.22) to 0.68(± 0.33) points, P = 0.22); in frail patients, the EQ-5D-5 L index decreased from 0.55(±0.26) to 0.44 points (±0.33) (P = 0.022). Frailty was an independent predictor of deteriorated HRQoL 1 year after TAVI (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.07-4.70, P = 0.003). In frail patients, the absence of peripheral artery disease (OR 0.17, 95% 0.05-0.50, P = 0.001) and renal dysfunction (OR 0.13, 95% CI 0.04-0.41, P = <0.001) at baseline was associated with improved HRQoL 1 year after TAVI., Conclusion: Frailty is associated with deterioration of HRQoL 1 year after TAVI. Notably, HRQoL did improve in frail patients with no peripheral arterial disease or renal impairment at baseline., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Geriatrics Society.)

Background: Complete revascularization in patients with an acute coronary syndrome and multivessel disease is superior compared to culprit-only treatment. However, it is unknown whether direct complete or staged complete revascularization should be pursued., Methods: The BIOVASC study is an investigator-initiated, prospective, multicenter, randomized, 2-arm, international, open-label, noninferiority trial. We will randomize 1,525 patients 1:1 to immediate complete revascularization (experimental arm) or culprit-only plus staged complete revascularization (control arm). Patients will be enrolled in approximately 30 sites in Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain. The primary end point is a composite of all-cause mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, any unplanned ischemia-driven revascularization (excluding staged procedures in the control arm at the predetermined time), and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) at 1 year post index procedure., Conclusions: The BIOVASC study aims to further refine the treatment algorithm for acute coronary syndrome patients with multivessel disease in terms of optimal timing for complete revascularization (Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03621501)., (Copyright © 2020 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To investigate the relation between body mass index class and changes in health-related quality of life in patients participating in cardiac rehabilitation., Design: Prospective cohort study., Patients: A total of 503 patients with acute coronary syndrome., Methods: Data from the OPTICARE trial were used, in which health-related quality of life was measured with the MacNew Heart Disease HRQOL Instrument at the start, directly after, and 9 months after completion of cardiac rehabilitation. Patients were classed as normal weight, overweight, or obese., Results: During cardiac rehabilitation, global health-related quality of life improved in patients in all classes of body mass index. Patients classed as overweight had a significantly greater improvement in social participation than those classed as normal weight (5.51-6.02 compared with 5.73-5.93, respectively; difference in change 0.30, p = 0.025). After completion of cardiac rehabilitation, health-related quality of life continued to improve similarly in patients in all classes of body mass index., Conclusion: Health-related quality of life improved during cardiac rehabilitation in patients of all classes of body mass index. Patients classed as overweight showed the greatest improvement. The beneficial effects were maintained during extended follow-up after completion of cardiac rehabilitation.

Background: delirium is an event leading to negative health outcomes and increased mortality in patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the incidence, determinants and consequences of post-operative delirium (POD) in older patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI)., Methods: The TAVI Care and Cure program is a prospective, observational registry in patients referred for TAVI at Erasmus University Medical Centre. The presence of delirium was evaluated by daily clinical assessment by a geriatrician pre- and up to 3 days post-TAVI. Mortality data were obtained from the Dutch Civil Registry., Results: A total of 543 patients underwent TAVI between January 2014 and December 2017. Overall, the incidence of POD was 14% (75/543 patients) but declined from 18% in 2014 to 7% in 2017 (P = 0.009). Patients who developed POD were older (81.9 ± 5.8 versus 78.6 ± 8.3 years, P < 0.001), had higher prevalence of renal dysfunction and prior stroke (54% versus 40%, P = 0.02; 31% versus 18%, P = 0.01) and were more often frail (32% versus 25%, P = 0.02). From a procedural perspective, general anesthesia (odds ratios (OR), 2.31; 95% CI, 1.40-3.83; P = 0.001), non-transfemoral access (OR, 2.37; 95% CI, 1.20-4.70; P = 0.01) and longer procedural time (OR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.01-1.02; P < 0.001) were significantly associated with POD. One-year survival rate was 68% among patients who had suffered a POD and was 85% in patients without a POD (hazard ratio's 1.8 (95% CI 1.01-3.10), P = 0.045)., Conclusion: POD frequently occurs after TAVI and is associated with increased mortality. It might be speculated that patient selection and the minimalistic approach of TAVI may reduce the frequency of delirium., (© The Author(s) 2020. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Geriatrics Society. All rights reserved. For permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.)

Background: The capacity of TAVI-programs and numbers of sites performing TAVI has rapidly increased. This necessitated the initiation of the Rotterdam TAVI Care & Cure Program, aiming to improve patient-centered care during the TAVI pathway., Methods: Consenting patients with severe aortic stenosis and an indication for TAVI will be included. The TAVI Care & Cure program will facilitate prognostic contributions to improve outcomes, patient satisfaction and quality of life in patients with valvular heart disease who are treated with a transcatheter aortic valve implantation in collaboration with the departments of cardiology, cardio-thoracic surgery, anesthesiology and geriatrics., Conclusion: With a single center observational registry, we aim to assess the TAVI patient clinical pathway, focusing on pre, peri and post interventional variables including functional status and HRQoL. We will evaluate the patient's complexity by applying an extended multidisciplinary approach, which includes a systematic application of geriatric assessments of frailty and cognitive function., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Assessing haemodynamic congestion based on filling pressures instead of clinical congestion can be a way to further improve quality of life (QoL) and clinical outcome by intervening before symptoms or weight gain occur in heart failure (HF) patients. The clinical efficacy of remote monitoring of pulmonary artery (PA) pressures (CardioMEMS; Abbott Inc., Atlanta, GA, USA) has been demonstrated in the USA. Currently, the PA sensor is not reimbursed in the European Union as its benefit when applied in addition to standard HF care is unknown in Western European countries, including the Netherlands., Aims: To demonstrate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of haemodynamic PA monitoring in addition to contemporary standard HF care in a high-quality Western European health care system., Methods: The current study is a prospective, multi-centre, randomised clinical trial in 340 patients with chronic HF (New York Heart Association functional class III) randomised to HF care including remote monitoring with the CardioMEMS PA sensor or standard HF care alone. Eligible patients have at least one hospitalisation for HF in 12 months before enrolment and will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio. Minimum follow-up will be 1 year. The primary endpoint is the change in QoL as measured by the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ). Secondary endpoints are the number of HF hospital admissions and changes in health status assessed by EQ-5D-5L questionnaire including health care utilisation and formal cost-effectiveness analysis., Conclusion: The MONITOR HF trial will evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of haemodynamic monitoring by CardioMEMS in addition to standard HF care in patients with chronic HF. Clinical Trial Registration number NTR7672.

Background: In aortic stenosis, valvulo-arterial impedance (Zva) estimates the overall left ventricular afterload (valve and arterial component). We investigated the association of Zva (≥5 versus <5 mm Hg mL -1 m -2 ) on quality of life (QOL) and exercise performance (EP) ≥1 year after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR)., Methods: The study population consists of 250 TAVR patients in whom baseline Zva and follow-up QOL was prospectively assessed using EuroQOL-5-dimensions instruments; EP was assessed in 192 patients who survived ≥1 year after TAVR using questionnaires related to daily activities. In 124 patients, Zva at 1-year was also available and was used to study the change in Zva (baseline to 1 year) on QOL/EP., Results: Elevated baseline Zva was present in 125 patients (50%). At a median of 28 (IQR, 17-40) months, patients with elevated baseline Zva were more limited in mobility (88% versus 71%; P =0.004), self-care (40% versus 25%; P =0.019), and independent daily activities (taking a shower: 53% versus 38%, P =0.030; walking 100 meter: 76% versus 54%, P =0.001; and walking stairs: 74% versus 54%, P =0.011). By multivariable analysis, elevated Zva predicted unfavorable QOL (lower EuroQOL-5-dimensions-Utility Index, odds ratio, 1.98; CI, 1.15-3.41) and unfavorable EP (any limitation in ≥3 daily activities, odds ratio, 2.55; CI, 1.41-4.62). After TAVR, the proportion of patients with elevated Zva fell from 50% to 21% and remained 21% at 1 year and was found to be associated with more limitations in mobility, self-care, and daily activities compared with patients with Zva <5 mm Hg mL -1 m -2 ., Conclusions: Elevated Zva was seen in half of patients and predicted unfavorable long-term QOL and EP. At 1 year after TAVR, the prevalence of elevated Zva was 21% but remained associated with poor QOL/EP.

Aims: The haemodynamic effects of primary implantation of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) versus inotropes in decompensated heart failure and low output (DHF-LO), but without an acute coronary syndrome, have not been investigated. We therefore aimed to investigate the effect of primary IABP implantation as compared to inotropes on haemodynamics in DHF-LO with no acute ischaemia., Methods and Results: Patients (n=32) with DHF-LO despite IV diuretics were randomised to primary 50 mL IABP or inotropes (INO: enoximone or dobutamine). The primary endpoint was the improvement of organ perfusion assessed by ∆ mixed-venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) at 3 hours; secondary endpoints included ∆ cardiac power output (CPO), NT-proBNP proportional change, cumulative fluid balance and ∆ dyspnoea severity score, all at 48 hours. Data are presented as median (IQR). Patients were 60 (48-69) years old and 72% were male. Baseline SvO2 was 44 (39-53)%. ∆SvO2 was higher in the IABP group (+17 [+9; +24] vs. +5 [+2; +9]%, p<0.05). IABP patients had a higher ∆CPO, a greater relative reduction in NT-proBNP, a more negative cumulative fluid balance, and a greater reduction in dyspnoea severity score. There were no IABP-related serious adverse events (SAEs). Thirty-day mortality was 23% (IABP) vs. 44% (INO)., Conclusions: Primary circulatory support by IABP showed a significant increase in improved organ perfusion assessed by SvO2.

Background: Post percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) fractional flow reserve (FFR) is a significant predictor of major adverse cardiac events (MACE). The rationale for low post procedural FFR values often remains elusive based on angiographic findings alone, warranting further assessment using an FFR pullback or additional intravascular imaging. It is currently unknown if additional interventions intended to improve the PCI, decrease MACE rates., Study Design: The FFR REACT trial is a prospective, single-center randomized controlled trial in which 290 patients with a post PCI FFR <0.90 will be randomized (1:1) to either standard of care (no additional intervention) or intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)-directed optimization of the FFR (treatment arm). Eligible patients are those treated with angiographically successful PCI for (un)stable angina or non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (MI). Assuming 45% of patients will have a post PCI FFR <0.90, approximately 640 patients undergoing PCI will need to be enrolled. Patients with a post PCI FFR ≥ 0.90 will be enrolled in a prospective registry. The primary end point is defined as a composite of cardiac death, target vessel MI and clinically driven target vessel revascularisation (target vessel failure) at 1 year. Secondary end points will consist of individual components of the primary end point, procedural success, stent thrombosis and correlations on clinical outcome, changes in post PCI Pd/Pa and FFR and IVUS derived dimensions. All patients will be followed for 3 years., Conclusion: The FFR-REACT trial is designed to explore the potential benefit of HD-IVUS-guided PCI optimization in patients with a post PCI FFR <0.90 (Dutch trial register: NTR6711)., (Copyright © 2019 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of a history of malignancy in patients with chest pain who were referred for computed tomography angiography as well as the long-term survival and cardiovascular outcomes, including coronary artery disease (CAD) and coronary artery calcium (CAC) percentiles of cancer survivors. These data are relevant since it is unknown how cancer survivors, who underwent cardio-toxic therapies, should be monitored., Methods: We analysed all patients with chest pain, who came to the outpatient clinic and underwent computed tomography angiography. The primary study endpoint was long-term survival. The secondary endpoints included CAD on computed tomography angiogram (CTA), CAC percentiles, suspected and confirmed malignancy on CTA, and other accidental findings on CTA., Results: Of all 1,892 patients included in the analyses, 133 (7%) had a history of malignancy and 1,759 (93%) did not. Mortality rates were higher for the cancer survivors (6.5% vs 20.9% after ten years, p < 0.001). The multivariable Cox regression model also showed higher mortality for cancer survivors after ten years (adjusted hazard ratio 2.48 [95% confidence interval: 1.58-3.90]). CAD did not differ between both groups. CAC percentiles were higher in cancer survivors (p = 0.037). Cancer survivors had more suspected malignancies (3.8% vs 0.5%; p = 0.001) and also more confirmed malignancies on CTA (3.0% vs 0.1%; p < 0.001)., Conclusions: Cancer survivors have higher mortality rates, no difference in CAD on CTA, higher CAC percentiles and more often malignancy on CTA compared with patients without a cancer history.

Background: Frailty in patients undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) has been associated with an increased 1-year mortality rate but the relation of frailty and short term outcomes yields conflicting results. This study investigated the association of a novel and self-developed Erasmus Frailty Score with both short and long term outcomes after TAVI., Methods: TAVI Care & Cure is an observational ongoing study, which includes consecutive patients undergoing TAVI at the Erasmus University Medical Centre. Prior to the TAVI, frailty status was assessed. The Erasmus Frailty Score (EFS) was defined as follows: 1 point assigned if: MMSE was <27 points, MUST ≥2 points, grip strength <20 kg for females, <30 kg for males, KATZ index ≥1 limited activity, Lawton and Brody index ≥2 limited activity. The maximum score was 5. Patients were classified as frail when the score was ≥3. Presence of delirium was evaluated by daily clinical assessment by a geriatrician pre- and post-TAVI. Mortality data were obtained from the Dutch Civil Registry. The impact of frailty on short and long term outcomes was evaluated., Results: 213 patients were included for analysis. Frailty was present in 28.6% (n = 61), (EFS ≥ 3). Baseline frailty was associated with patients developing a delirium [OR 3.3 (95% CI 1,55-7,10), p = 0.002] and with increased risk of 1-year mortality [HR 2.1 (95% CI 1.01-4.52), p = 0.047]., Conclusion: The Erasmus Frailty Score is associated with delirium and 1 year mortality in older patients after TAVI and can be used as a complement to traditional risk factors., (Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

Aims: We aim to study the feasibility and clinical value of pulmonary artery pressure monitoring with the CardioMEMS™ device in order to optimize and guide treatment in patients with a HeartMate 3 left ventricular assist device (LVAD)., Methods and Results: In this single-centre, prospective pilot study, we will include 10 consecutive patients with New York Heart Association Class IIIb or IV with Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support Classes 2-5 scheduled for implantation of a HeartMate 3 LVAD. Prior to LVAD implantation, patients will receive a CardioMEMS sensor, for daily pulmonary pressure readings. The haemodynamic information provided by the CardioMEMS will be used to improve haemodynamic status prior to LVAD surgery and optimize the timing of LVAD implantation. Post-LVAD implantation, the haemodynamic changes will be assessed for additive value in detecting potential complications in an earlier stage (bleeding and tamponade). During the outpatient clinic phase, we will assess whether the haemodynamic feedback can optimize pump settings, detect potential complications, and further tailor the clinical management of these patients., Conclusions: The HEMO-VAD study is the first prospective pilot study to explore the safety and feasibility of using CardioMEMS for optimization of LVAD therapy with additional (remote) haemodynamic information., (© 2019 The Authors. ESC Heart Failure published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)

Purpose: The safety and efficacy of a minimally interrupted novel oral anticoagulant (NOAC) strategy at the time of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is uncertain. The purpose of this study was to compare rates of bleeding and thromboembolic events between minimally interrupted NOAC and uninterrupted vitamin K antagonist (VKA) in patients undergoing AF ablation., Methods: This was a retrospective single-center cohort study of consecutive patients who underwent AF catheter ablation between January 2013 and April 2017. Endpoints included major bleeding, clinically relevant non-major bleeding and systemic thromboembolic event from the time of ablation through 30 days. Bleeding events were defined by the Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) and International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis (ISTH)., Results: A total of 637 patients were included in the analysis, 520 patients used uninterrupted VKA and 117 patients minimally interrupted NOAC (dabigatran: n = 68; apixaban: n = 30; rivaroxaban, n = 14; edoxaban, n = 5). The rate of clinically relevant non-major bleeding was lower in the NOAC group in comparison to the VKA group (BARC type 2: 2.6% versus 8.3%, P = 0.03; ISTH: 0% versus 3.8%, P = 0.03). Rates of major bleeding were similar between groups (BARC type 3 to 5: 3.4% versus 4.2%, P = NS; ISTH: 6.0% versus 8.7%, P = NS; for NOAC and VKA groups, respectively). Rates of systemic embolism were 0% with minimally interrupted NOAC, and 0.6% with uninterrupted VKA (P = NS)., Conclusions: In patients undergoing AF ablation, anticoagulation with minimally interrupted NOAC was associated with fewer clinically relevant non-major bleeding events in comparison with uninterrupted VKA without compromising thromboembolic safety.

Introduction: Liver transplantation has emerged as a successful therapy for end-stage liver disease. However, cardiovascular mortality is the leading cause of fatality in the postoperative period. The aim of this study was to reveal the prevalence and identify risk factors of early cardiovascular events (CVEs)., Methods: We performed a retrospective study of all consecutive patients who underwent a primary liver transplantation from 1986 to 2017 (n = 916). We investigated the occurrence of in-hospital CVEs, their predictors, and short- and long-term outcome., Results: The prevalence of CVEs was 11%. The adjusted analysis showed that higher age (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.03-1.09), higher MELD score (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.07 CI) and sinus tachycardia at time of screening (OR 3.12, 95% CI 1.45-6.72) were positive predictors for a CVE. Preoperative propranolol use showed a trend towards a higher risk of CVE (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.00-2.77, p = 0.051). In a sub-analysis of patients where echocardiography data were available (n = 597), a larger left atrial diameter and a higher E/E' ratio were related to early CVEs. Ten-year survival in 30-day survivors was favourable (68.6%; 56.0% vs. 69.8% in the CVE+ vs. the CVE-group, respectively, p = 0.056)., Discussion: In conclusion, besides known risk factors (age and MELD score), sinus tachycardia (related to the presence of acute liver failure and cirrhosis) was an independent predictor for CVE after liver transplantation.

Aims: The European Collaborative Project on Inflammation and Vascular Wall Remodeling in Atherosclerosis - Intravascular Ultrasound (ATHEROREMO-IVUS) study was designed as an exploratory clinical study in order to investigate the associations between genetic variation, coronary atherosclerosis phenotypes, and plaque vulnerability as determined by IVUS., Methods and Results: The ATHEROREMO-IVUS study was a prospective, observational study of 581 patients with stable angina pectoris or acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who were referred for coronary angiography to the Thoraxcenter, Rotterdam, enriched with 265 IBIS-2 participants (total population, n=846). Prior to catheterisation, blood samples were drawn for genetic analyses. During the catheterisation procedure, IVUS was performed in a non-culprit coronary artery. The primary endpoint was the presence of vulnerable plaque as determined by IVUS virtual histology (VH). In addition, we performed a genome-wide association study of plaque morphology. We observed strong signals associated with plaque morphology in several chromosomal regions: twelve SNPs (rs17300022, rs6904106, rs17177818, rs2248165, rs2477539, rs16865681, rs2396058, rs4753663, rs4082252, rs6932, rs12862206, rs6780676) in or near eight different genes (GNA12, NMBR, SFMBT2, CUL3, SESN3, SLC22A25, EFBN2, SEC62) were most significant., Conclusions: In conclusion, we found twelve SNPs in or in the proximity of eight genes, which were possibly associated with markers of vulnerable plaque. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01789411.

Objective: We investigated smoking cessation rates in coronary heart disease (CHD) patients throughout Europe; current and as compared to earlier EUROASPIRE surveys, and we studied characteristics of successful quitters., Methods: Analyses were done on 7998 patients from the EUROASPIRE-IV survey admitted for myocardial infarction, unstable angina and coronary revascularisation. Self-reported smoking status was validated by measuring carbon monoxide in exhaled air., Results: Thirty-one percent of the patients reported being a smoker in the month preceding hospital admission for the recruiting event, varying from 15% in centres from Finland to 57% from centres in Cyprus. Smoking rates at the interview were also highly variable, ranging from 7% to 28%. The proportion of successful quitters was relatively low in centres with a low number of pre- event smokers. Overall, successful smoking cessation was associated with increasing age (OR 1.50; 95% CI 1.09-2.06) and higher levels of education (OR 1.38; 95% CI 1.08-1.75). Successful quitters more frequently reported that they had been advised (56% vs. 47%, p < .001) and to attend (81% vs. 75%, p < .01) a cardiac rehabilitation programme., Conclusion: Our study shows wide variation in cessation rates in a large contemporary European survey of CHD patients. Therefore, smoking cessation rates in patients with a CHD event should be interpreted in the light of pre-event smoking prevalence, and caution is needed when comparing cessation rates across Europe. Furthermore, we found that successful quitters reported more actions to make healthy lifestyle changes, including participating in a cardiac rehabilitation programme, as compared with persistent smokers., (Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)