Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Patients with Left Ventricular Dysfunction: Short-Term Results from a Single Center in Bangladesh

Background: Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) is considered a safer alternative to on-pump surgery, especially in patients with left ventricular dysfunction (LVD). Objectives: This study assessed short-term outcomes and functional improvements in LVD patients post-OPCAB. Methods: The study included 200 coronary artery disease patients who underwent isolated off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting (OPCAB) at the National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute between January 2019 and June 2020. Patients were categorized into Group 1, with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 30% - 39%, and Group 2, with an LVEF of 40% or higher. Echocardiographic assessments of left ventricular dimensions and ejection fraction were performed preoperatively, at discharge, and one month postoperatively. Results: In Group 1, preoperative left ventricular internal dimensions during diastole (LVIDd) and systole (LVIDs) were 53.48 ± 4.40 mm and 44.23 ± 3.93 mm, respectively, with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 35.28% ± 2.26%. At discharge, these values improved to 51.58 ± 4.04 mm (LVIDd), 41.23 ± 5.30 mm (LVIDs), and 39.25% ± 3.75% (LVEF). One month postoperatively, further improvements were observed: 46.29 ± 3.76 mm (LVIDd), 37.45 ± 3.68 mm (LVIDs), and 43.22% ± 4.67% (LVEF). Group 2 showed similar positive outcomes, with preoperative values of 47.09 ± 5.06 mm (LVIDd), 35.11 ± 5.25 mm (LVIDs), and 50.13% ± 7.25% (LVEF), improving to 42.37 ± 4.18 mm (LVIDd), 31.05 ± 4.19 mm (LVIDs), and 55.33% ± 7.05% (LVEF) at one month postoperatively. Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in left ventricular function and NYHA class, with most patients moving from class III/IV to I/II. Complications were minimal, and no mortality was observed. Conclusion: OPCAB is safe and effective for patients with LVEF 30% - 39% and LVEF ≥ 40%, providing significant short-term functional improvements without increased risk.

Analysis of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Induced Left Ventricular Dysfunction

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (VEGFR-TKI), an oral molecular targeted drug, reportedly causes serious adverse cardiovascular events such as hypertension and left ventricular failure. The association between VEGFR-TKI-induced hypertension and heart failure with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (HFpEF) has been previously studied. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between hypertension onset and associated cardiac diastolic dysfunction due to VEGFR-TKI use. Patients who used VEGFR-TKIs (target drugs: sunitinib, axitinib, sorafenib, pazopanib, and cabozantinib) at the Department of Urology, Hokkaido Cancer Center were recruited between May 2009 and October 2021 and were divided into two groups based on whether their blood pressure was elevated during VEGFR-TKI use. The markers of left ventricular diastolic function (E/A, Dct (ms), mean E/e, septal e') and left ventricular systolic function (LVEF, LVDd, and LVDs) were evaluated. LVEF and mean E/e in the elevated blood pressure group (n = 41) showed significant changes before and after treatment. LVEF values (contractile function markers) in the TKI-HT (+) group significantly decreased from 70.7% ± 6.8% before treatment to 68.3% ± 7.8% after treatment (p = 0.03). Conversely, no significant difference was observed for any ventricular systolic function marker in the TKI-HT (−) group. E/e (diastolic function marker) in the TKI-HT (+) group significantly decreased from 11.9% ± 3.6% before treatment to 10.3% ± 3.0% after treatment (p = 0.02). However, no change was observed in any ventricular diastolic function marker in the TKI-HT (−) group. The results of this study suggest that cardiac function may be affected in patients using VEGFR-TKI. Furthermore, appropriate antihypertensive treatment and early monitoring with regular echocardiography, even in asymptomatic patients, may help prevent VEGFR-TKI-induced deterioration of systolic and diastolic function.

Heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction in older patients with chronic kidney disease: the China Hypertension Survey (2012‒2015)

Background Heart failure(HF)is a leading cause of hospitalization and mortality for older chronic kidney disease(CKD)patients.However,the epidemiological data is scarce.We aimed to determine the prevalence of left ventricular(LV)dysfunction and HF,and to explore the risk factors for HF among those patients.Methods This is a cross-sectional analysis of the China Hypertension Survey conducted between October 2012 and December 2015.A total of 5,808 participants aged≥65 years were included in the analysis.Self-reported history of HF and any other cardiovascular diseases was acquired.2-D and Doppler echocardiography were used to assess LV dysfunction.CKD was defined as either estimated glomerular filtration rate(eGFR)<60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 or urinary albumin to creatinine ratio(ACR)≥30 mg/g.Results Among CKD patients aged≥65 years,the weighted prevalence of HF,heart failure with preserved ejection fraction(HFpEF),heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction(HFmrEF),and heart failure with reduced ejection fraction(HFrEF)was 4.8%,2.5%,0.8%,and 1.7%,respectively.The weighted prevalence of HF was 5.0%in patients with eGFR<60 mL/min per 1.73 m2,and was 5.9%in patients with ACR≥30 mg/g.The prevalence of LV systolic dysfunction was 3.1%,and while it was 8.9%for moderate/severe diastolic dysfunction.Multivariate analysis showed that smoking was significantly associated with the risk of HF.Furthermore,age,smoking,and residents in rural areas were significantly associated with a risk of LV diastolic dysfunction.Conclusions The prevalence of HF and LV dysfunction was high in older patients with CKD,suggesting that particular strategies will be required.

Total Arterial Revascularisation in Left Ventricular Dysfunction

The feasibility and safety of total arterial coronary revascularization with 2 arterial conduits in patients with impaired left ventricular function was evaluated. Data were prospectively collected on all patients with multiple vessel disease and moderately or severely impaired left ventricular function, who underwent coronary surgery with the intention of total arterial revascularization with 2 conduits between March 1995 and August 2002. One hundred and seventy-nine patients were included in the study. Acute coronary insufficiency was present in 3 patients and 43 had unstable angina. Severe left ventricular impairment was present in 29 patients. There were 17 redo operations including 3 redo-redo procedures. Eighty-two percent of patients had a Y graft configuration from the left internal mammary artery （right internal mammary artery 40. 8 %, radial artery 33. 5 %, other 7.8 % ）. The perioperative mortality was 2. 2 %, myocardial infarction 1.7 % and stroke 0. 6 %. Total arterial revascularization in patients with ischaemic left ventricular dysfunction can be safely performed with 2 arterial conduits. The radial artery provides conduit length greater than the right internal mammary artery and allows full revascularization despite left ventricular dilatation.

Outcomes of cardiac surgery in senior aged patients with ventricular dysfunction:analysis of a large national database

OBJECTIVE In patients undergoing cardiac surgery,reduced preoperative ejection fraction(EF)and senior age are associated with a worse outcome.As most outcome data available for these patients are mainly from Western surgical populations involving specific surgery types,our aim is to evaluate the real-world characteristics and perioperative outcomes of surgery in senior-aged heart failure patients with reduced EF across a broad range cardiac surgeries.METHODS Data were obtained from the China Heart Failure Surgery Registry(China-HFSR)database,a nationwide multicenter registry study in China's Mainland.Multiple variable regression analysis was performed in patients over 75 years old to identify risk factors associated with mortality.RESULTS From 2012 to 2017,578 senior-aged(>75 years)patients were enrolled in China HFSR,21.1%of whom were female.Isolated coronary bypass grafting(CABG)were performed in 71.6%of patients,10.1%of patients underwent isolated valve surgery and 8.7%received CABG combined with valve surgery.In-hospital mortality was 10.6%,and the major complication rate was 17.3%.Multivariate analysis identified diabetes mellitus(odds ratio(OR)=1.985),increased creatinine(OR=1.007),New York Heart Association(NYHA)Class III(OR=1.408),NYHA class IV(OR=1.955),cardiogenic shock(OR,6.271),and preoperative intra-aortic balloon pump insertion(OR=3.426)as independent predictors of in-hospital mortality.CONCLUSIONS In senior-aged patients,preoperative evaluation should be carefully performed,and strict management of reversible factors needs more attention.Senior-aged patients commonly have a more severe disease status combined with more frequent comorbidities,which may lead to a high risk in mortality.

Preoperative Intra-Aortic Balloon Counterpulsation in Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Patients with Severe Left Ventricular Dysfunction

Background: The intra-aortic balloon pumping (IABP) is the most used ventricular mechanical assist device. In recent years, the preoperative use in patients with severe ventricular dysfunction presents itself as a great benefic strategy to the postoperative recovery. This paper aim is to evaluate the IABP post-operative benefit in patients with severe ventricular dysfunction. Methods: From January 2011 to March 2016, 125 patients underwent a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) with cardiopulmonary bypass and preoperative IABP in Teaching Hospital of the ABC Medical School and Hospital Estadual Mario Covas. The inclusion criteria were the presence of severe ischemic cardiomyopathy with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) less than or equal to 40%, estimated by Doppler echocardiography using the Simpson method. The preoperative LVEF was 30.25% ± 8.53% and the diastolic diameter of the left ventricle (LVDD) 67.75 ± 16.37 mm. IABP was installed approximately 15 hours before the surgery. Results: The patients required the IABP for 2.4 ± 1.58 days, and vasoactive drugs, 4.8 ± 2.12 days. We performed 3.2 ± 1.9 grafts per patient and the total length of stay was 07 ± 5.52 days. Cardiopulmonary bypass time was 67 ± 10.95 minutes and anoxia time, 46.4 ± 10.06 minutes. Twelve patients (9.6%) had pneumonia and four (3.2%), atrial fibrillation. We observed a LVDD reduction to 63 ± 16.26 (p = 0.068) and LVEF enhancement to 36.50 ± 16.86 (p = 0.144). The data were analyzed statistically according to the Wilcoxon test. There were no deaths. Conclusion: The initial experience of the authors with the preoperative IABP in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction suggests great benefit in post-operative recovery with im-provement of LVEF and reduction of LVDD.

Stent supported coronary angioplasty in patients with severe ventricular dysfunction

OBJECTIVE: To assess the immediate- and long-term outcomes of stent supported coronary angioplasty in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction. METHODS: Seventy-four consecutive patients with angiographic left ventricular ejection fractions or = 1 was seen in 29 (73%) of 40 successfully treated congestive heart failure patients at 6 months after the procedure. During long-term follow-up, 58 (87.9%) of 66 patients with clinical success were alive, including 44 (68.6%) free from cardiac events. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction treated with stent supported PTCA experience a high rate of success, low procedure related mortality and satisfactory long-term survival.

Application of three-dimensional speckle tracking technique in measuring left ventricular myocardial function in patients with diabetes

BACKGROUND Diabetic cardiomyopathy is considered as a chronic complication of diabetes mellitus(DM).Therefore,early detection of left ventricular systolic function(LVSF)damage in DM is essential.AIM To explore the use of the three-dimensional speckle tracking technique(3D-STI)for measuring LVSF in DM patients via meta-analysis.METHODS The electronic databases were retrieved from the initial accessible time to 29 April 2023.The current study involved 9 studies,including 970 subjects.We carried out this meta-analysis to estimate myocardial function in DM compared with controls according to myocardial strain attained by 3D-STI.RESULTS Night articles including 970 subjects were included.No significant difference was detected in the left ventricular ejection fraction between the control and the diabetic group(P>0.05),while differences in global longitudinal strain,global circumferential strain,global radial strain,and global area strain were markedly different between the controls and DM patients(all P<0.05).CONCLUSION The 3D-STI could be applied to accurately measure early LVSF damage in patients with DM.

The Hidden Value of Assessing Right Ventricular Performance with Exercise in Hypertensive Patients with Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction

Background: Right ventricular (RV) dysfunction could develop during exercise in patients with both hypertension and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and may contribute to the patient symptoms. The objective is to assess RV function, both at rest and during exercise in patients with hypertension and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Methods: We included 30 patients with hypertension and resting LV diastolic dysfunction. The systolic function of the right ventricle was assessed by TAPSE (Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion) and S, while E/A ratio, annular lateral E’, E/E’ and E’/A’ were used to measure diastolic function. The global function of the right ventricle was assessed by measuring the right indexed myocardial performance. The dimensions and pulmonary pressures were also measured. Results: The following parameters of RV systolic function were increased significantly with exercise: TAPSE (P = 0.0054), S’ (P = 0.0045). Moreover, the following diastolic parameters of the RV increased significantly with exercise: E/E’ (P = 0.05), A’ (P = 0.04). The global RV function showed also a significant increase (P = 0.0011). The three RV dimensions as well as the pulmonary artery pressures also increased during exercise (P = 0.000004, 0.001, and 0.00000064 respectively). In addition, the presence of resting LV grade II DD predicted significantly higher pulmonary pressures during exercise (P = 0.006). The advanced resting grade of LVDD predicted significantly the presence of advanced grade of RVDD with exercise (P = 0.037). Conclusions: Some patients who have both hypertension and LV diastolic dysfunction showed structural and functional changes of the right ventricle at rest. However, all patients had RV functional changes during exercise.

Optimal Timing of Surgical Revascularization for Myocardial Infarction and Left Ventricular Dysfunction

Background： The optimal timing of surgical revascularization for patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction （STEMI） and impaired left ventricular function is not well established. This study aimed to examine the timing of surgical revascularization after STEMI in patients with ischemic heart disease and left ventricular dysfunction （LVD） by comparing early and late results. Methods： From January 2003 to December 2013, there were 2276 patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting （CABG） in our institution. Two hundred and sixty-four （223 male, 41 females） patients with a history of STEMI and LVD were divided into early revascularization （ER, 〈3 weeks）, mid-term revascularization （MR, 3 weeks to 3 months）, and late revascularization （LR, 〉3 months） groups according to the time interval from STEMI to CABG. Mortality and complication rates were compared among the groups by Fisher＇s exact test. Cox regression analyses were performed to examine the effect of the time interval of surgery on long-term survival. Results： No significant differences in 30-day mortality, long-term survival, freedom from all-cause death, and rehospitalization for heart failure existed among the groups （P 〉 0.05）. More patients in the ER group （12.90%） had low cardiac output syndrome than those in the MR （2.89%） and LR （3.05%） groups （P = 0.035）. The mean follow-up times were 46.72 ± 30.65, 48.70 ± 32.74, and 43.75 ± 32.43 months, respectively （P = 0.716）. Cox regression analyses showed a severe preoperative condition （odds ratio = 7.13, 95% confidence interval 2.05-24.74, P = 0.002） rather than the time interval of CABG （P 〉 0.05） after myocardial infarction was a risk factor of long-term survival. Conclusions： Surgical revascularization for patients with STEMI and LVD can be performed at different times after STEMI with comparable operative mortality and long-term survival. However, ER （〈3 weeks） has a higher incidence of postoperative low cardiac output syndrome. A severe preoperative condition rather than the time interval of CABG after STEMI is a risk factor of long-term survival.

Is the use of cardiopulmonary bypass for isolated coronary artery bypass an independent predictor of mortality and morbidity in patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction？

Background Patients presenting with severe left ventricular dysfunction （SLVD） undergoing conventional coronary artery bypass grafting （CCABG） are at an increased risk of perioperative mortality and morbidity. The aim of this study was to assess the risk factors responsible for mortality and morbidity among patients with SLVD by comparing CCABG and oft-pump coronary artery bypass surgery （OPCAB）. Methods We retrospectively evaluated 186 consecutive patients with SLVD who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting （CABG）, including 102 by CCABG and 84 by OPCAB. Registry database, medical notes, and charts were studied for preoperative and postoperative data of the patients. Different variables and risk factors （preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative） were evaluated and compared. The morbidity and mortality outcomes were compared in the two groups. The follow-up results and quality of life were assessed after surgery. Results The two groups had similar percentage of patients with preoperative high-risk profiles and no significant differences were found between groups in baseline variables such as age or comorbidities. There was a significant difference in the number of grafts used between the two groups. CCABG patients received （3.6±0.5） grafts per patient, while OPCAB patients had （2.7±0.6） grafts （P 〈0.05）. Completeness of revascularization was also significantly different between the two groups （CCABG 91.1% vs OPCAB 73.8%, P 〈0.05）. The hospital mortality was similar in the two groups （4.8% in OPCAB vs 5.9% in CCABG）. The risk-adjusted mortality, according to the calculated propensity score, did not reach statistical significance in the two groups. In this study, OPCAB seemed to have a beneficial effect on reducing reoperation for bleeding, blood transfusion requirement, and the length of stay at ICU. But the incidence of perioperative myocardial infarction was more common in the off-pump group （P 〈0.05）. The degree of improvement in angina and quality of life did not differ significantly between the two groups. Conclusions Using cardiopulmonary bypass is not an independent predictor of mortality and morbidity in patients with SLVD. Isolated CABG can be safely performed in SLVD patients with acceptable postoperative morbidity and mortality in addition to encouraging home discharge rates and higher quality of life. Therefore, CCABG remains a viable option in selected patients with SLVD.

THE EFFECT OF LEFT VENTRICULAR DIASTOLIC DYSFUNCTION ON THE PATHOGENESIS OF ANGINA DECUBITUS

Objective. To investigate the effect of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction on the pathogenesis of angina decubitus (AD). Methods. The study population consisted of three groups: 20 individuals without cardiovascular disease were studied as group Ⅰ.Group Ⅱ included 20 patents with coronary artery disease and without AD. Thirty-one patients with AD and ejection fraction(EF)>50% were studied as group Ⅲ. Group Ⅱ and Ⅲ were matched for age, EF and extent of coronary artery disease. Results. Left ventriculography (LVG) showed that left ventricular (LV) first 1/3 filling fraction(1/3FF) was significantly lower in group Ⅲ than in group Ⅱ and Ⅰ(both P<0001),but LV late 1/3 FF was much higher in group Ⅲ than in group Ⅱ and Ⅰ(P<005, P<001). Left ventricular end-diastolic pressure(LVEDP)was markedly increased before and after LVG in group Ⅱ and Ⅲ as compared with group Ⅰ (both P<005, both P<0001). The difference of LVEDP caused by left atrial contraction (left atrial contraction pressure difference, LACPD)before and after LVG was much higher in group Ⅲ than in group Ⅰ ( P<001, P<0001). Howevere,there were significant differences in LVEDP and in LACPD between before and after LVG only in group Ⅲ (both P<001). Conclusion. The patients with AD have LV diastolic dysfunction, which may be closely related to the pathogenesis of angina decubitus.

Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction and Silent Myocardial Ischemia amongst Asymptomatic Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Two Referral Hospitals in Cameroon

Background: Cardiovascular events, the leading cause of death among diabetic patients, are usually under-diagnosed due to subclinical presentation. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from March-2019 to September-2020, in two reference hospitals in Yaoundé, Cameroon, to assess the prevalence of asymptomatic Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction (LVDD) and Silent Myocardial Infarction (SMI) and potentially associated factors. Results: Out of 95 participants (mean age ± SD: 43 ± 7 years;M/F sex-ratio 1.6), 22 (23.1%;95% CI: 15.8% - 32.6%) had LVDD and fewer (n = 13, 13.6%;95% CI: 8.2% - 22.0%) had SMI, p = 0.86. Though not statistically significant, patients with ≥5 years diabetes duration, as well as patients with HbA1C ≥ 7.5% had two-fold increased risk of LVDD (p = 0.22 and p = 0.15 respectively). LVDD was significantly higher in patients with SMI (29% vs 6.3%, p Conclusion: The significant presence of asymptomatic cardiovascular manifestations in this population entails mandatory preventive screening, especially, in patients with long standing diabetes and poor glycemic control, to allow timely detection and management.

Venopulmonary ECMO Improved Hypoxemia and Supported the Right Ventricle in a Patient with Decompensated Eisenmenger Syndrome

Mechanical circulatory and/or respiratory assistance with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has become a standard of care for patients with circulatory (venoarterial) and/or respiratory (venovenous) failure refractory to standard therapies. Adult patients with congenital heart disease are an increasingly recognized and growing population and include various groups, such as undiagnosed cases in childhood and palliated and/or corrected cases, which require subsequent care because of residual lesions, cardiac arrest/insufficiency, and arrhythmias, among other conditions. In addition, these patients are prone to developing pathologies that are typical of adulthood with a generally increased risk of morbidity and mortality because of their low reserves and organic damage associated with the underlying heart disease, which makes them candidates for ECMO. These patients represent an additional challenge in this therapy because malformations and the presence of a shunt can generally affect the usual cannulation methods and hemodynamic and oximetry monitoring. Thus, the configuration decision must be made on a case-by-case basis. Here, we present a cannulation method, venopulmonary artery ECMO, which provides hemodynamic and respiratory support, and may be ideal for patients with shunts and/or right ventricular dysfunction. To our knowledge, this is the first report of this configuration in patients with congenital heart diseases.

Relationship between model for end-stage liver disease score and left ventricular function in patients with end-stage liver disease

BACKGROUND:Decreased cardiac contractility has been observed in cirrhosis,suggesting a latent cardiomyopathy in these patients.This study was designed to evaluate left ventricular structure and function in patients with end-stage liver disease by the model for end-stage liver disease(MELD) scoring system. METHODS:We recruited 82 patients(72 male,10 female; mean age 50.3±8.9 years)with end-stage liver disease who underwent orthotopic liver transplantation between January 2002 and May 2008.Seventy-eight patients had cirrhosis and 4 had primary liver cancer.Patients were categorized into three groups on the basis of MELD score:≤9(27 patients, 33%);10-19(40,49%);and≥20(15,18%).The relationship between MELD score and cardiac structure and function was determined.Preoperative assessments of blood biochemistry, blood coagulation,serum virology,echocardiography and electrocardiography were performed. RESULTS:MELD score was positively correlated with enlarged left atrial diameter,increased interventricular septum thickness(IVST),increased aortic flow,corrected QT interval (QTc)extension and cardiac output(P=0.033,0.002,0.000, 0.000 and 0.009,respectively).International normalized ratio also had a correlation with the above parameters and enlarged left ventricular end-diastolic diameter(P=0.043,0.010,0.000, 0.001,0.016 and 0.008,respectively).Serum creatinine was positively correlated with IVST(r=0.257,P=0.020),but negatively correlated with early maximal ventricular filling velocity/late diastolic or atrial velocity ratio(r=-0.300, P=0.006).A difference of QTc>440 ms among the three groups was statistically significant(χ2=9.791,P=0.007).CONCLUSIONS:Abnormalities in cardiac structure and function are common in patients with end-stage liver disease. MELD score is a practically useful approach for the assessment of cardiac function in such patients.

Evolution of heart transplant donor characteristics in the 21st century: A United States single center’s experience

Despite a record setting number of heart transplants performed annually,the national donor shortage continues to plague transplant teams across the United States.Here we describe the barriers to adaptation of numerous“non-traditional”orthotopic heart transplant donor characteristics including donors with hepatitis C virus,those meeting criteria for donation after cardiac death,donors with coronavirus disease 19 infection,donors with the human immunodeficiency virus,and grafts with left ventricular systolic dysfunction.Our center’s objective was to increase our transplant volume by expanding our donor pool from“traditional”donors to these“non-traditional”donors.We detail how medical advances such as certain laboratory studies,pharmacologic interventions,and organ care systems have allowed our center to expand the donor pool thereby increasing transplantation volume without adverse effects on outcomes.

Effects of Bisoprolol on the ventricular function and hemodynamics in patients with atrial fibrillation and chronic heart failure

Background: Recent data suggest that beta-blockers can be beneficial in patients with chronic heart failure (CHF). Atrial fibrillation (AF) is present in a significant number of patients with CHF and is associateing with significant morbidity and increasing mortality rates. Thus it is necessary to establish therapy to improve the poor prognosis in this high-risk population, but a specific benefit of beta-blockers to the subset with concomitant AF and CHF has been little demonstrated. Objective: To examine the effects of Bisoprolol (6 months treatment) on the ventricular function and hemodynamics in patients with AF and CHF. Methods: 84 patients with stable CHF (NYHA≤Ⅲ class) and AF were assigned to Treated Group( n = 37) or Control group Ⅰ ( n = 22, 24-hour heart mean rate < 70/min) or Control Group Ⅱ ( n = 25, 24-hour heart mean rate ≥ 70/min) . All patients were given the basic therapy for CHF, and Treated Group received Bisopolol. Clinical and echocardiographic variables were measured in 3 groups at baseline and after 6 months, and the results were compared . Results: After 6 months of treatment with Bisoprolol, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and NYHA class had significandy improved (P < 0.05), and a trend towards a reduction in combined end point of death or CHF hospitalization was also observed (P < 0.20) in Treated Group; The increase of LVEF in Treated Group were associated with a reduction in mitral regurgitation degree and left atrial volume; The heart rate in mean 24-hour and at peak exercise decreased in Treated Group, but were similar to that in Control Group Ⅰ. Conclusion: 6 months of Bisoprolol therapy resulted in an improvement in the NYHA class and LVEF, and also showed a trend towards a reduction in hospitalization or death. The beneficial effects of Bisoprolol on patients with AF and CHF may be partly mediated by improvement of ventricular diastolic function.

A Case Report of Right Pneumonectomy with a Focus on the Right Ventricular Function and Hemodynamic Management

Background: In patients undergoing pneumonectomy, intraoperative pulmonary and cardiac complications are the major cause of morbidity and mortality. Protective lung ventilation strategies may decrease the overall lung injury. Right, ventricular dysfunction may occur during the surgery and after the pneumonectomy, in the early postoperative period, with reduced RV ejection fraction and increased RV end-diastolic volume index, caused by increased RV afterload. Case report: We describe the case of a 28-year-old non-smoker female who underwent to a right pneumonectomy. The patient presented intraoperative hemodynamic instability and signs of RV dysfunction, requiring vasoactive amines and nitric oxide. Discussion: This article is intended to provide an overview of the anesthetic management for pneumonectomy including the hemodynamic management and considerations of the causes and management of right ventricular dysfunction.

Effect of aortic valve replacement on ventricular recovery and functional class in patients with reduced left ventricular function

Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the effects of aortic valve replacement (AVR) in patients with aortic stenosis (AS) or regurgitation (AR) and left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Patients and methods: Retrospective analysis identified 75 consecutive patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) assessed by echocardiography < 40% who underwent AVR for AS (n = 40) or AR (n = 35) between 1994 and 2011. Exclusion criteria were previous myocardial infarction or concomitant valvular disorders other than aortic disease. Follow-up evaluated the New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, LVEF and survival rate. Results: Mean ages were respectively 56.5 ± 9.3 and 47.9 ± 11.7 years in AS and AR groups, p = 0.001. Before surgery, 88% and 75% of patients were in NYHA III-IV respectively in AS and AR. In the AS group, the mean LVEF and aortic valve area (AVA) were respectively 32.2% ± 8% and 0.65 ± 0.15 cm2. AR group had a mean LVEF of 33.8 ± 6.7% and a mean LV systolic diameter of 62 ± 8.8 mm. All patients underwent AVR under cardiopulmonary bypass. There were 5 operative deaths (12.5%) in AS group and 6 (17.6%) in AR group, p = 0.57. LVEF increased to 49% ± 14.7% and 51.2% ± 10.9% in the AS and AR groups after echocardiography control. The survival rates at 1, 5 and 10 years were respectively 94.4%, 87% and 80% in AS group and 95.2%, 93% and 89% in AR group. Conclusion: Despite higher perioperative mortality in patients with aortic valve disease (AS or AR) and LV dysfunction, long-term outcome is excellent. We, therefore, conclude that AVR can be performed and it should not be denied to patients on the basis of low EF alone.

Catheter-based intervention for symptomatic patient with severe mitral regurgitation and very poor left ventricular systolic function-Safe but no room for complacency

Many patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction have concomitant mitral regurgitation(MR). Their symptoms and prognosis worsen with increasing severity of MR. Percutaneous Mitra Clip&#174; can be used safely to reduce the severity of MR even in patients with advanced heart failure and is associated with improved symptoms, quality of life and exercise tolerance. However, a few patients with very poor left ventricular systolic function may experience significant haemodynamic disturbance in the peri-procedural period. We present three such patients, highlighting some of the potential problems encountered and discuss their possible pathophysiological mechanisms and safety measures.