Pulmonary embolism in patients with transvenous cardiac implantable electronic device leads
Background
Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are commonly associated with transvenous lead-related thrombi that can cause pulmonary embolism (PE).
Methods and results
We retrospectively evaluated all patients with transvenous CIED leads implanted at Mayo Clinic Rochester between 1 January 2000, and 25 October 2010. Pulmonary embolism outcomes during follow-up were screened using diagnosis codes and confirmed with imaging study reports. Of 5646 CIED patients (age 67.3 ± 16.3 years, 64% men, mean follow-up 4.69 years) 88 developed PE (1.6%), incidence 3.32 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.68–4.07] p...
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Noheria, A., Ponamgi, S. P., Desimone, C. V., Vaidya, V. R., Aakre, C. A., Ebrille, E., Hu, T., Hodge, D. O., Slusser, J. P., Ammash, N. M., Bruce, C. J., Rabinstein, A. A., Friedman, P. A., Asirvatham, S. J. Tags: Leads and lead extraction Source Type: research
Is a pacemaker implantation warranted in this patient?
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Brenner, R., Chenevard, R., Ammann, P. Tags: CASE EXPRESS REPORTS Source Type: research
Atrial standstill in sinus node disease due to extensive atrial fibrosis: impact on dual chamber pacemaker implantation
Conclusion
Partial atrial standstill may be present and prevent atrial lead implantation in patients with sinus node disease. In these patients, recognition of partial atrial standstill and identification of surviving muscular islets with connection to the AV node by mapping studies may still allow synchronous AV sequential pacing. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Bellmann, B., Roser, M., Muntean, B., Tscholl, V., Nagel, P., Schmid, M., Schauerte, P. Tags: Pacing and resynchronization therapy Source Type: research
Plasma tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 a predictor of long-term mortality in patients treated with cardiac resynchronization therapy
Conclusion
Tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 is a powerful predictor of long-term mortality in HF patients treated with CRT. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Trucco, E., Tolosana, J. M., Castel, M. A., Batlle, M., Borras, R., Sitges, M., Guash, E., Matas, M., Arbelo, E., Berruezo, A., Brugada, J., Mont, L. Tags: Pacing and resynchronization therapy Source Type: research
Incidence of and predictors for appropriate implantable cardioverter-defibrillator therapy in patients with a secondary preventive implantable cardioverter-defibrillator indication
Conclusion
The rate of appropriate ICD therapies in secondary prevention is high. No useful predictors for them, especially not for life-threatening arrhythmias could be identified. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Schaer, B., Kühne, M., Reichlin, T., Osswald, S., Sticherling, C. Tags: Sudden death and ICDs Source Type: research
Outcome of contemporary acute coronary syndrome complicated by ventricular tachyarrhythmias
Aim
To evaluate the incidence and prognostic implications of ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VTAs) complicating acute myocardial infarction (MI).
Methods and results
We evaluated 7669 MI patients [ST elevation (n = 3573) and non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (ACS) (n = 4096)] from the Acute Coronary Syndrome Israeli Survey for the incidence of VTA. Ventricular tachyarrhythmia occurred in 3.8% of patients [2.1% early (≤48 h) and 1.7% late (>48 h) VTA]. In-hospital mortality rates were higher for patients with VTA when compared with patients with no VTA (P
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Orvin, K., Eisen, A., Goldenberg, I., Gottlieb, S., Kornowski, R., Matetzky, S., Golovchiner, G., Kuznietz, J., Gavrielov-Yusim, N., Segev, A., Strasberg, B., Haim, M. Tags: Sudden death and ICDs Source Type: research
Pulmonary vein distention explaining cryoballoon lesion efficacy
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Iso, K., Okumura, Y., Nagashima, K. Tags: IMAGES IN ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY Source Type: research
Use of a contact force-sensing ablation catheter with advanced catheter location significantly reduces fluoroscopy time and radiation dose in catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation
Aims
The aim of this study was to evaluate the ‘real-world’ impact of a novel contact force (CF)-sensing (SmartTouch™, Biosense Webster, Diamond Bar, CA, USA) catheter coupled with an advanced catheter location (ACL) system on fluoroscopy time and fluoroscopy dose during atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation.
Methods and results
This was a retrospective observational cohort study of prospectively collected data of 1515 consecutive patients undergoing paroxysmal AF (PAF) and persistent AF (PerAF) ablation at a single institution between 2009 and 2014. Patients undergoing AF ablation with the SmartTouch cathet...
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Lee, G., Hunter, R. J., Lovell, M. J., Finlay, M., Ullah, W., Baker, V., Dhinoja, M. B., Sporton, S., Earley, M. J., Schilling, R. J. Tags: Ablation for atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
Shortening of freezing cycles provides equal outcome to standard ablation procedure using second-generation 28 mm cryoballoon after 15-month follow-up
Aims
Complications such as thermal oesophageal lesions, phrenic nerve injury, and pulmonary haemorrhage were found in cryoballoon (CB) ablation. Whether shortening of freezing times translates into equal efficacy rate and outcome is unknown. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that a single freeze cycle per pulmonary vein (PV) without dormant conduction during adenosine infusion is equally effective to standard CB procedure with a bonus freeze after documented PV isolation (PVI).
Methods and results
In 53 patients with drug-refractory atrial fibrillation (AF) demonstrating PVI after a single 240 s freeze cycl...
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Tebbenjohanns, J., Höfer, C., Bergmann, L., Dedroogh, M., Gaudin, D., von Werder, A., Rühmkorf, K. Tags: Ablation for atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
One-year clinical outcome after pulmonary vein isolation in persistent atrial fibrillation using the second-generation 28 mm cryoballoon: a retrospective analysis
Conclusions
In patients with persistent AF, use of the second-generation 28 mm CB was associated with a 69% 1-year clinical success rate. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Lemes, C., Wissner, E., Lin, T., Mathew, S., Deiss, S., Rillig, A., Heeger, C., Wohlmuth, P., Reissmann, B., Tilz, R., Ouyang, F., Kuck, K.-H., Metzner, A. Tags: Ablation for atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
Regional differences in referral, procedures, and outcome after ablation for atrial fibrillation in Europe: a report from the Atrial Fibrillation Ablation Pilot Registry of the European Society of Cardiology
Conclusion
This study with all-comer patients shows that patient selection for ablation follows current guidelines but reveals significant differences regarding co-morbidity, medication, and ablation strategy. Despite this, 1-year outcomes are without significant differences and in line with previously published clinical trials. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Riahi, S., Arbelo, E., Brugada, J., Maggioni, A. P., Tavazzi, L., Vardas, P., Laroche, C., Efremidis, M., Xhaet, O., Wozniak, A., Van Gelder, I. C., Hjortshoj, S. Tags: Ablation for atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
Patient-reported treatment satisfaction and budget impact with rivaroxaban vs. standard therapy in elective cardioversion of atrial fibrillation: a post hoc analysis of the X-VeRT trial
Aims
We compared patient-reported treatment satisfaction and the economic impact of anticoagulation therapy with rivaroxaban vs. vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation undergoing elective cardioversion procedures.
Methods and results
The current study is a post hoc analysis of the prospective, multicentre X-VeRT (EXplore the efficacy and safety of once-daily oral riVaroxaban for the prevention of caRdiovascular events in subjects with non-valvular aTrial fibrillation scheduled for cardioversion) trial. Patient-reported treatment satisfaction with anticoagulation therapy was assessed...
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Hohnloser, S. H., Cappato, R., Ezekowitz, M. D., Evers, T., Sahin, K., Kirchhof, P., Meng, I. L., van Eickels, M., Camm, A. J., on behalf of the X-VeRT Steering Committee and Investigators Tags: Atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
2015 HRS/EHRA/APHRS/SOLAECE expert consensus statement on optimal implantable cardioverter-defibrillator programming and testing
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 25, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Wilkoff, B. L., Fauchier, L., Stiles, M. K., Morillo, C. A., Al-Khatib, S. M., Almendral, J., Aguinaga, L., Berger, R. D., Cuesta, A., Daubert, J. P., Dubner, S., Ellenbogen, K. A., Estes, N. A. M., Fenelon, G., Garcia, F. C., Gasparini, M., Haines, D. E. Tags: CONSENSUS STATEMENT Source Type: research
The variability of automated QRS duration measurement
AimsPrevious studies have demonstrated substantial variability in manual assessment of QRS complex duration (QRSd). Disagreements in QRSd measurements were also found in several automated algorithms tested on digitized electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings. The aim of our study was to investigate the variability of automated QRSd measurements performed by two commercially available electrocardiographs.Methods and ResultsTwo GE MAC 5000 (GE-1 and GE-2) electrocardiographs and two Mortara ELI 350 (Mortara-1 and Mortara-2) electrocardiographs were used in the study. Participants for the study were recruited from patients hospita...
Source: Europace - February 19, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Comments on clinical features and changes in epidemiology of infective endocarditis on pacemaker devices over a 27-year period (1987 –2013): reply
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 18, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Comment on clinical features and changes in epidemiology of infective endocarditis on pacemaker devices over a 27-year period
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 18, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Wilkoff BL, et al. 2015 HRS/EHRA/APHRS/SOLAECE expert consensus statement on optimal implantable cardioverter-defibrillator programming and testing
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 18, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Magnetic resonance imaging-compatible circular mapping catheter: an in vivo feasibility and safety study
ConclusionsThis new MR-compatible 10-pole catheter appears to be safe and effective. Combining MR and multipolar EP in a single session offers the possibility to correlate substrate information (scar, fibrosis) and EP mapping as well as online monitoring of lesion formation and electrical endpoint. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 18, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Augmented QRS notching and macroscopic T-wave alternans preceding polymorphic ventricular tachycardia in a patient with electrical storm
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 17, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy in young individuals: comparison of conventional and subcostal approaches—a single-centre experience
ConclusionTo the best our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating subcostal ICD placement in young adults and resulting in equivalent to better outcomes when compared with conventionally placed pectoral ICD. Subcostal ICD placement might be considered an alternative option in young adults as it results in better procedural outcomes and also comparable rate of adverse events during follow-up, but bigger studies with a larger number of patients are needed for a definitive conclusion. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 17, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Performance of handheld electrocardiogram devices to detect atrial fibrillation in a cardiology and geriatric ward setting
ConclusionUsing AliveCor or MyDiagnostick handheld recorders requires a structured screening strategy to be effective and cost-effective in a hospital setting. It must exclude patients with implanted devices and known AF, and requires targeted additional 12-lead ECGs to optimize specificity. Under these circumstances, the expenses per diagnosed new AF patient and preventable stroke are reasonable. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 17, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Cryoablation-induced phrenic nerve dysfunction with preserved inspiratory function of the diaphragm
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 16, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Independent data about the safety and efficacy of rivaroxaban for prevention of stroke/embolism are needed: Author reply
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Beyer-Westendorf, J. Tags: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Source Type: research
Independent data about the safety and efficacy of rivaroxaban for prevention of stroke/embolism are needed
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Stöllberger, C., Pommer, P., Schneider, B., Finsterer, J. Tags: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Source Type: research
Patients attitude and knowledge about oral anticoagulation therapy: results of a self-assessment survey in patients with atrial fibrillation conducted by the European Heart Rhythm Association
The purpose of this European Heart Rhythm Association survey was to assess the attitude, level of education, and knowledge concerning oral anticoagulants (OACs) among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) taking vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), non-VKA oral anticoagulants (NOACs) or antiplatelets. A total of 1147 patients with AF [mean age 66 ± 13 years, 529 (45%) women] from 8 selected European countries responded to this survey. The overall use of OACs and antiplatelets was 77 and 15.3%, respectively. Of the patients taking OACs, 67% were on VKAs, 33% on NOACs, and 17.9% on a combination of OACs and antiplatelets. A...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Amara, W., Larsen, T. B., Sciaraffia, E., Hernandez Madrid, A., Chen, J., Estner, H., Todd, D., Bongiorni, M. G., Potpara, T. S., Dagres, N., Sagnol, P., Blomstrom-Lundqvist, C. Tags: EHRA SURVEY Source Type: research
The use of wearable cardioverter-defibrillators in Europe: results of the European Heart Rhythm Association survey
The aim of this European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) survey was to collect data on the use of wearable cardioverter-defibrillators (WCDs) among members of the EHRA electrophysiology research network. Of the 50 responding centres, 23 (47%) reported WCD use. Devices were fully reimbursed in 17 (43.6%) of 39 respondents, and partially reimbursed in 3 centres (7.7%). Eleven out of 20 centres (55%) reported acceptable patients' compliance (WCD worn for>90% of time). The most common indications for WCD (8 out of 10 centres; 80%) were covering the period until re-implantation of ICD explanted due to infection, in patients ...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Lenarczyk, R., Potpara, T. S., Haugaa, K. H., Hernandez-Madrid, A., Sciaraffia, E., Dagres, N., Conducted by the Scientific Initiatives Committee, European Heart Rhythm Association, Conducted by the Scientific Initiatives Committee, European Heart Rhythm Tags: EP WIRE Source Type: research
Beat-to-beat T-wave amplitude variability in the risk stratification of right ventricular outflow tract-premature ventricular complex patients
We examined whether an analysis of the ventricular repolarization instability could differentiate PVT/VF triggered by RVOT-PVCs from benign RVOT-PVCs or MVT.
Methods
We evaluated the ventricular repolarization instability as assessed by the beat-to-beat T-wave amplitude variability (TAV) using Holter recordings in patients with RVOT-PVCs but with no structural heart disease. We determined the prematurity index, defined as the ratio of the coupling interval of the first ventricular tachycardia (VT) beat or isolated PVC to the preceding R–R interval just before the VT or isolated PVC in the Holter recordings. The stud...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Ichikawa, T., Sobue, Y., Kasai, A., Kiyono, K., Hayano, J., Yamamoto, M., Okuda, K., Watanabe, E., Ozaki, Y. Tags: Electrocardiology and risk stratification Source Type: research
Permanent pacing after transcatheter aortic valve implantation of a CoreValve prosthesis as determined by electrocardiographic and electrophysiological predictors: a single-centre experience
Conclusion
Conduction was affected in all pts undergoing TAVI, but serious complications that required permanent pacing generally occurred in pts with pre-existing conduction abnormalities. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Kostopoulou, A., Karyofillis, P., Livanis, E., Thomopoulou, S., Stefopoulos, C., Doudoumis, K., Theodorakis, G., Voudris, V. Tags: Cardiac electrophysiology Source Type: research
Successful transvenous lead extraction after a failed open surgical attempt
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Gonna, H., Domenichini, G., Gallagher, M. M. Tags: CASE EXPRESS REPORTS Source Type: research
Radiation risk reduction in cardiac electrophysiology through use of a gridless imaging technique
Conclusion
Use of a gridless imaging technique can contribute to a significant reduction in radiation risk to both patients and operators during cardiac EP procedures. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Smith, I. R., Stafford, W. J., Hayes, J. R., Adsett, M. C., Dauber, K. M., Rivers, J. T. Tags: Cardiac electrophysiology Source Type: research
Radiofrequency ablation of the interventricular septum to treat outflow tract gradients in hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy: a novel use of CARTOSound(R) technology to guide ablation
Conclusion
Radiofrequency ablation using CARTOSound® guidance is accurate and effective in treating LVOT gradients in HOCM in this preliminary group of patients. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Cooper, R. M., Shahzad, A., Hasleton, J., Digiovanni, J., Hall, M. C., Todd, D. M., Modi, S., Stables, R. H. Tags: Cardiac electrophysiology Source Type: research
Optimal pacing sites for cardiac resynchronization therapy for patients with a systemic right ventricle with or without a rudimentary left ventricle
Conclusions
In sRV patients with LD with/without an rLV, the leads should be placed at furthest sites in the longitudinal RV direction. In patients with an rLV and SD, the leads should be placed laterally on opposite sides of both ventricles. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Miyazaki, A., Sakaguchi, H., Kagisaki, K., Tsujii, N., Matsuoka, M., Yamamoto, T., Hoashi, T., Noda, T., Ohuchi, H. Tags: Pacing and resynchronization therapy Source Type: research
Catheter ablation restores decreased plasma miR-409-3p and miR-432 in atrial fibrillation patients
Conclusion
We suggest that plasma miR-409-3p and miR-432 are potential markers of AF, and catheter ablation restores their decreased levels in AF patients. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Liu, T., Zhong, S., Rao, F., Xue, Y., Qi, Z., Wu, S. Tags: Ablation for atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
One-year follow-up after irrigated multi-electrode radiofrequency ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation
Aims
Irrigated multi-electrode ablation (IMEA) is a novel tool to perform pulmonary vein isolation (PVI). The aim was to compare IMEA with point-by-point radiofrequency (RF) ablation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing PVI.
Methods and results
Forty-nine patients (age 60 ± 9 years, 82% male) were studied. In 24 patients, the IMEA catheter was used in conjunction with an electroanatomic mapping system. Twenty-five patients undergoing RF point-by-point ablation (RF-PVI) served as a control group. Validation of PVI based on the IMEA catheter was performed using a standard circular mapping c...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Pavlović, N., Sticherling, C., Knecht, S., Reichlin, T., Muhl, A., Schaer, B., Osswald, S., Kuhne, M. Tags: Ablation for atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
Safety profile of multielectrode-phased radiofrequency pulmonary vein ablation catheter and irrigated radiofrequency catheter
Background
Silent cerebral lesions with the multielectrode-phased radiofrequency (RF) pulmonary vein ablation catheter (PVAC®) have recently been investigated. However, comparative data on safety in relation to irrigated RF ablation are missing.
Methods and results
One hundred and fifty consecutive patients (58 ± 12 years, 56 female) underwent first pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) for atrial fibrillation (61% paroxysmal) using PVAC® (PVAC). Procedure data as well as in-hospital complications were compared with 300 matched patients who underwent PVI using irrigated RF (iRF). Procedure duration (148 ± 6...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Wasmer, K., Foraita, P., Leitz, P., Guner, F., Pott, C., Lange, P. S., Eckardt, L., Monnig, G. Tags: Ablation for atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
Electrophysiological findings following pulmonary vein isolation using radiofrequency catheter guided by contact-force and second-generation cryoballoon: lessons from repeat ablation procedures
Aims
To assess the incidence of late pulmonary vein (PV) reconnection following index PV isolation (PVI) procedure initially achieved with radiofrequency contact-force catheter ablation (CFCA) and second-generation cryoballoon ablation (CB-AdvA).
Methods and results
A total of 56 consecutive patients (41 male, 73.2%; mean age 60.8 ± 11.8 years) underwent a repeat ablation because of recurrent atrial tachyarrhythmias (ATas) after index PVI achieved with CFCA (30 patients) or CB-AdvA (26 patients). All repeat procedures were performed by the means of CFCA. In the CFCA group, among 119 PVs, 43 (36.1%) showed conductio...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Ciconte, G., Velagic, V., Mugnai, G., Saitoh, Y., Irfan, G., Hunuk, B., Ströker, E., Conte, G., Sieira, J., Di Giovanni, G., Baltogiannis, G., Brugada, P., de Asmundis, C., Chierchia, G.-B. Tags: Ablation for atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
Intrathoracic pressure swings induced by simulated obstructive sleep apnoea promote arrhythmias in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation
Aims
There is preliminary evidence for a link between obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and arrhythmias such as paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) and sudden cardiac death but underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown.
Methods and results
In this interventional crossover study, we evaluated whether intrathoracic pressure changes, induced by simulated OSA, trigger premature cardiac beats, and alter measures of ventricular repolarization [QTc and Tpeak-to-Tend (TpTec) intervals] in patients with PAF. 12-Lead-electrocardiograms were recorded continuously in 44 patients, while simulating obstructive apnoea (Mueller manoeuvr...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Schlatzer, C., Schwarz, E. I., Sievi, N. A., Clarenbach, C. F., Gaisl, T., Haegeli, L. M., Duru, F., Stradling, J. R., Kohler, M. Tags: Atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
Emerging risk factors and the dose-response relationship between physical activity and lone atrial fibrillation: a prospective case-control study
Aims
The role of high-intensity exercise and other emerging risk factors in lone atrial fibrillation (Ln-AF) epidemiology is still under debate. The aim of this study was to analyse the contribution of each of the emerging risk factors and the impact of physical activity dose in patients with Ln-AF.
Methods and results
Patients with Ln-AF and age- and sex-matched healthy controls were included in a 2:1 prospective case–control study. We obtained clinical and anthropometric data transthoracic echocardiography, lifetime physical activity questionnaire, 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, Berlin questionnaire sc...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Calvo, N., Ramos, P., Montserrat, S., Guasch, E., Coll-Vinent, B., Domenech, M., Bisbal, F., Hevia, S., Vidorreta, S., Borras, R., Falces, C., Embid, C., Montserrat, J. M., Berruezo, A., Coca, A., Sitges, M., Brugada, J., Mont, L. Tags: Atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
Slow pathway ablation in abdominal visceral heterotaxy with azygos continuation
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Hu, H., Li, J., Cui, K. Tags: CASE EXPRESS REPORTS Source Type: research
Vernakalant-facilitated electrical cardioversion: comparison of intravenous vernakalant and amiodarone for drug-enhanced electrical cardioversion of atrial fibrillation after failed electrical cardioversion
Conclusion
Vernakalant may therefore be considered as a useful agent for facilitated electrical cardioversion in cardioversion-resistant AF. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Müssigbrodt, A., John, S., Kosiuk, J., Richter, S., Hindricks, G., Bollmann, A. Tags: Atrial fibrillation Source Type: research
A roadmap to improve the quality of atrial fibrillation management: proceedings from the fifth Atrial Fibrillation Network/European Heart Rhythm Association consensus conference
This report ends with a list of priorities for research in AF patients. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Kirchhof, P., Breithardt, G., Bax, J., Benninger, G., Blomstrom-Lundqvist, C., Boriani, G., Brandes, A., Brown, H., Brueckmann, M., Calkins, H., Calvert, M., Christoffels, V., Crijns, H., Dobrev, D., Ellinor, P., Fabritz, L., Fetsch, T., Freedman, S. B., Tags: EHRA CONSENSUS STATEMENT Source Type: research
European Heart Rhythm Association/Heart Failure Association joint consensus document on arrhythmias in heart failure, endorsed by the Heart Rhythm Society and the Asia Pacific Heart Rhythm Society
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Lip, G. Y. H., Heinzel, F. R., Gaita, F., Juanatey, J. R. G., Le Heuzey, J. Y., Potpara, T., Svendsen, J. H., Vos, M. A., Anker, S. D., Coats, A. J., Haverkamp, W., Manolis, A. S., Chung, M. K., Sanders, P., Pieske, B., Document Reviewers:, Gorenek, B., L Tags: EHRA/HFA POSITION PAPER Source Type: research
Non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation accompanying mitral stenosis: the concept for a trial
Patients at thromboembolic risk with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) can now be managed either with a vitamin K antagonist (VKA) or with a fixed dose of a non-VKA oral anticoagulant (NOAC), while patients with valvular AF have been restricted to VKAs on the basis of a potentially higher risk and different mechanism of thrombosis, and the lack of sufficient data on the efficacy of NOACs. The terms ‘non-valvular AF’ and ‘valvular AF’ have not been however consistently defined. ‘Valvular’ AF has included any valvular disorder, including valve replacement and repair. In AF with rheumat...
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: De Caterina, R., John Camm, A. Tags: REVIEW Source Type: research
Stay cool or in good contact?
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Kuck, K. H., Fink, T., Wissner, E. Tags: EDITORIALS Source Type: research
Non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants in 'valvular atrial fibrillation: a call for action
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Steffel, J., Atar, D. Tags: EDITORIALS Source Type: research
Incidence and predictors of clinically relevant cardiac perforation associated with systematic implantation of active-fixation pacing and defibrillation leads: a single-centre experience with over 3800 implanted leads
ConclusionsImplantation of active-fixation leads is associated with a low incidence of clinically relevant cardiac perforation. Older and female patients have a higher risk of perforation as well as those patients receiving the ventricular lead in an apical position. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - February 3, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
The electrocardiographic characteristics of septal flash in patients with left bundle branch block
AimsIn patients with systolic heart failure and left bundle branch block (LBBB), septal flash (SF) movement has been described by echocardiography. We evaluated the prevalence of SF in LBBB and non-LBBB patients and evaluated whether specific electrocardiographic (ECG) characteristics within LBBB are associated with the presence of SF on echocardiography.Methods and resultsOne hundred and four patients with probable LBBB on standard 12-lead ECG were selected, 40 patients with non-LBBB served as controls. Left bundle branch block and non-LBBB were defined, according to the most recent guidelines. The presence of SF was asse...
Source: Europace - February 2, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Circulating intermediate CD14++CD16+monocytes are increased in patients with atrial fibrillation and reflect the functional remodelling of the left atrium
AimsA recent large clinical study demonstrated the association between intermediate CD14++CD16+monocytes and cardiovascular events. However, whether that monocyte subset contributes to the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF) has not been clarified. We compared the circulating monocyte subsets in AF patients and healthy people, and investigated the possible role of intermediate CD14++CD16+monocytes in the pathophysiology of AF.Methods and resultsThis case–control study included 44 consecutive AF patients without systemic diseases referred for catheter ablation at our hospital, and 40 healthy controls. Patients wi...
Source: Europace - January 29, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Alternative to left ventricular lead implantation through the coronary sinus: 1-year experience with a minimally invasive and robotically guided approach
ConclusionThe robotic approach was feasible, safe, and minimally invasive. Accordingly, robotically guided LV lead implantation seems to offer a new alternative when conventional approaches are not suitable. (Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - January 24, 2016 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research
Left atrial appendage closure to prevent stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation: a call for the heart team approach
(Source: Europace)
Source: Europace - January 4, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Salzberg, S. P., Grunenfelder, J., Emmert, M. Y. Tags: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Source Type: research
