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New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders
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New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders

A special issue of Journal of Clinical Medicine (ISSN 2077-0383). This special issue belongs to the section "Cardiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2023) | Viewed by 51431

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Paweł T. Matusik

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Electrocardiology, Institute of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jagiellonian University Medical College, The John Paul II Hospital, Kraków, Poland
Interests: cardiac arrhythmias; arrhythmogenic disorders; atrial fibrillation; cardiac pacing; implantable cardioverter-defibrillators; cardiac resynchronization therapy; catheter ablation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Christian Sohns

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Clinic for Electrophysiology, Herz- und Diabeteszentrum NRW, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, 32545 Bad Oeynhausen, Germany
Interests: cardiac arrhythmias; catheter ablation; device therapy; heart failure; magnetic resonance imaging
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Novel electrocardiographic criteria along with new algorithms for the diagnostics and treatment of arrhythmias have been proposed, enabling more personalized patient management, including more rational use of imaging, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators, cardiac resynchronization therapy, and catheter ablation. The progress also concerns the diagnostics, treatment, and classification of arrhythmogenic disorders. Moreover, advancements in imaging and cardiovascular genetics make better diagnostics and risk stratification possible. However, personalized paths in arrhythmia management are increasingly needed.

This Special Issue of Journal of Clinical Medicine, “New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias and Arrhythmogenic Disorders”, will focus on recent improvements, developments, and findings in the field of diagnostics and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias and arrhythmogenic disorders, including channelopathies and cardiomyopathies. Furthermore, papers summarizing the current state of knowledge, papers on arrhythmias related to specific diseases (e.g., sleep apnea) or disciplines, and those highlighting potential gaps in our understanding of cardiac arrhythmias are also welcome. 

Dr. Paweł T. Matusik
Prof. Dr. Christian Sohns
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Journal of Clinical Medicine is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • electrocardiography
  • cardiac arrhythmias
  • genetics
  • cardiac pacing
  • implantable cardioverter-defibrillators
  • cardiac resynchronization therapy
  • magnetic resonance imaging
  • catheter ablation
  • arrhythmogenic disorders
  • channelopathy
  • cardiomyopathy

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Published Papers (23 papers)

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Editorial

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5 pages, 519 KiB  
Editorial
New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders
by Rafał Król, Michał Karnaś, Michał Ziobro, Jacek Bednarek, Georgios Kollias, Christian Sohns and Paweł T. Matusik
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(7), 2047; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm13072047 - 01 Apr 2024
Viewed by 484
Abstract
In recent decades, diagnosing, risk-stratifying, and treating patients with primary electrical diseases, as well as heart rhythm disorders, have improved substantially [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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3 pages, 188 KiB  
Editorial
Fever-Induced Brugada Sign: Clue for Clinical Management with Non-Negligible Risk of Sudden Cardiac Death
by Piotr Bijak, Vassil B. Traykov, Avi Sabbag, Sergio Conti, Christian Sohns and Paweł T. Matusik
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(10), 3503; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm12103503 - 16 May 2023
Viewed by 917
Abstract
Brugada syndrome (BrS) is a primary electrical disease predisposing to ventricular tachyarrhythmias and sudden cardiac death [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)

Research

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9 pages, 1255 KiB  
Article
Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Torsades de Pointes Complicating Acquired Atrioventricular Block
by Sok-Sithikun Bun, Nathan Heme, Florian Asarisi, Fabien Squara, Didier Scarlatti, Pamela Moceri and Emile Ferrari
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(3), 1067; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm12031067 - 30 Jan 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1113
Abstract
Background: Female gender, degree of QT prolongation, and genetic susceptibility are known risk factors for developing torsades de pointes (TdP) during high-grade atrioventricular block (HG-AVB). Our objective was to analyze the prevalence and clinical characteristics of patients presenting with TdP and AVB (TdP [...] Read more.
Background: Female gender, degree of QT prolongation, and genetic susceptibility are known risk factors for developing torsades de pointes (TdP) during high-grade atrioventricular block (HG-AVB). Our objective was to analyze the prevalence and clinical characteristics of patients presenting with TdP and AVB (TdP [+]) in comparison with non-TdP patients with AVB (TdP [−]). Methods: All the ECGs from patients prospectively admitted for AVB (2 to 1, HG, and complete) at the University Hospital of Nice were analyzed. Automated corrected QT (QTc), manual measurements of QT and JT intervals, and Tpeak-to-end were performed at the time of the most severe bradycardia. Results: From September 2020 to November 2021, 100 patients were admitted for HG-AVB. Among them, 17 patients with TdP were identified (8 men; 81 ± 10 years). No differences could be identified concerning automated QTc, manual QTc (Bazett correction), baseline QRS width, or mean left ventricular ejection fraction between the two groups. Potassium serum level on admission and mean number of QT-prolonging drugs per patient were not significantly different between the two groups, respectively: 4.34 ± 0.5 mmol/L in TdP [+] versus 4.52 ± 0.6 mmol/L (p = 0.33); and 0.6 ± 0.7 in TdP [+] versus 0.3 ± 0.5 (p = 0.15). In contrast, manual QTcFR (Fridericia correction), JT (Fridericia correction), Tpeak-to-end, and Tpe/QT ratio were significantly increased in the TdP [+] group, respectively: 486 ± 70 ms versus 456 ± 53 ms (p = 0.04); 433 ± 98 ms versus 381 ± 80 ms (p = 0.02); 153 ± 57 ms versus 110 ± 40 ms (p < 0.001); and 0.27 ± 0.08 versus 0.22 ± 0.06 (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The incidence of TdP complicating acquired AVB was 17%. Longer QTcFR, JT, and Tpeak-to-end were significantly increased in the case of TdP but also in the presence of permanent AVB during the hospitalization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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9 pages, 538 KiB  
Article
Heart Rate Variability Impairment Is Associated with Right Ventricular Overload and Early Mortality Risk in Patients with Acute Pulmonary Embolism
by Monika Lisicka, Marta Skowrońska, Bartosz Karolak, Jan Wójcik, Piotr Pruszczyk and Piotr Bienias
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(3), 753; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm12030753 - 17 Jan 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1299
Abstract
The association between heart rate variability (HRV) and mortality risk of acute pulmonary embolism (APE), as well as its association with right ventricular (RV) overload is not well established. We performed an observational study on consecutive patients with confirmed APE. In the first [...] Read more.
The association between heart rate variability (HRV) and mortality risk of acute pulmonary embolism (APE), as well as its association with right ventricular (RV) overload is not well established. We performed an observational study on consecutive patients with confirmed APE. In the first 48 h after admission, 24 h Holter monitoring with assessment of time-domain HRV, echocardiography and NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide) measurement were performed in all participants. We pre-examined 166 patients: 32 (20%) with low risk of early mortality, 65 (40%) with intermediate–low, 65 (40%) with intermediate–high, and 4 (0.02%) in the high risk category. The last group was excluded from further analysis due to sample size, and finally, 162 patients aged 56.3 ± 18.5 years were examined. We observed significant correlations between HRV parameters and echocardiographic signs of RV overload. SDNN (standard deviation of intervals of all normal beats) correlated with echocardiography-derived RVSP (right ventricular systolic pressure; r = −0.31, p = 0.001), TAPSE (tricuspid annulus plane systolic excursion; r = 0.21, p = 0.033), IVC (inferior vena cava diameter; r = −0.27, p = 0.002) and also with NT-proBNP concentration (r = −0.30, p = 0.004). HRV indices were also associated with APE risk stratification, especially in the low-risk category (r = 0.30, p = 0.004 for SDNN). Univariate and multivariate analyses confirmed that SDNN values were associated with signs of RV overload. In conclusion, we observed a significant association between time-domain HRV parameters and echocardiographic and biochemical signs of RV overload. Impaired HRV parameters were also associated with worse a clinical risk status of APE. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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17 pages, 2692 KiB  
Article
Statistical and Diagnostic Properties of pRRx Parameters in Atrial Fibrillation Detection
by Szymon Buś, Konrad Jędrzejewski and Przemysław Guzik
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(19), 5702; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11195702 - 27 Sep 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1445
Abstract
Background: We studied the diagnostic properties of the percentage of successive RR intervals differing by at least x ms (pRRx) as functions of the threshold value x in a range of 7 to 195 ms for the differentiation of atrial fibrillation (AF) from [...] Read more.
Background: We studied the diagnostic properties of the percentage of successive RR intervals differing by at least x ms (pRRx) as functions of the threshold value x in a range of 7 to 195 ms for the differentiation of atrial fibrillation (AF) from sinus rhythm (SR). Methods: RR intervals were measured in 60-s electrocardiogram (ECG) segments with either AF (32,141 segments) or SR (32,769 segments) from the publicly available Physionet Long-Term Atrial Fibrillation Database (LTAFDB). For validation, we have used ECGs from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology–Beth Israel Hospital (MIT–BIH) Atrial Fibrillation Database. The pRRx distributions in AF and SR in relation to x were studied by histograms, along with the mutual association by the nonparametric Spearman correlations for all pairs of pRRx, and separately for AF or SR. The optimal cutoff values for all pRRx were determined using the receiver operator curve characteristic. A nonparametric bootstrap with 5000 samples was used to calculate a 95% confidence interval for several classification metrics. Results: The distributions of pRRx for x in the 7–195 ms range are significantly different in AF than in SR. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and diagnostic odds ratios differ for pRRx, with the highest values for x = 31 ms (pRR31) rather than x = 50 (pRR50), which is most commonly applied in studies on heart rate variability. For the optimal cutoff of pRR31 (68.79%), the sensitivity is 90.42%, specificity 95.37%, and the diagnostic odds ratio is 194.11. Validation with the ECGs from the MIT–BIH Atrial Fibrillation Database confirmed our findings. Conclusions: We demonstrate that the diagnostic properties of pRRx depend on x, and pRR31 outperforms pRR50, at least for ECGs of 60-s duration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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22 pages, 4983 KiB  
Article
Using Minimum Redundancy Maximum Relevance Algorithm to Select Minimal Sets of Heart Rate Variability Parameters for Atrial Fibrillation Detection
by Szymon Buś, Konrad Jędrzejewski and Przemysław Guzik
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(14), 4004; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11144004 - 11 Jul 2022
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2162
Abstract
Heart rate is quite regular during sinus (normal) rhythm (SR) originating from the sinus node. In contrast, heart rate is usually irregular during atrial fibrillation (AF). Complete atrioventricular block with an escape rhythm, ventricular pacing, or ventricular tachycardia are the most common exceptions [...] Read more.
Heart rate is quite regular during sinus (normal) rhythm (SR) originating from the sinus node. In contrast, heart rate is usually irregular during atrial fibrillation (AF). Complete atrioventricular block with an escape rhythm, ventricular pacing, or ventricular tachycardia are the most common exceptions when heart rate may be regular in AF. Heart rate variability (HRV) is the variation in the duration of consecutive cardiac cycles (RR intervals). We investigated the utility of HRV parameters for automated detection of AF with machine learning (ML) classifiers. The minimum redundancy maximum relevance (MRMR) algorithm, one of the most effective algorithms for feature selection, helped select the HRV parameters (including five original), best suited for distinguishing AF from SR in a database of over 53,000 60 s separate electrocardiogram (ECG) segments cut from longer (up to 24 h) ECG recordings. HRV parameters entered the ML-based classifiers as features. Seven different, commonly used classifiers were trained with one to six HRV-based features with the highest scores resulting from the MRMR algorithm and tested using the 5-fold cross-validation and blindfold validation. The best ML classifier in the blindfold validation achieved an accuracy of 97.2% and diagnostic odds ratio of 1566. From all studied HRV features, the top three HRV parameters distinguishing AF from SR were: the percentage of successive RR intervals differing by at least 50 ms (pRR50), the ratio of standard deviations of points along and across the identity line of the Poincare plots, respectively (SD2/SD1), and coefficient of variation—standard deviation of RR intervals divided by their mean duration (CV). The proposed methodology and the presented results of the selection of HRV parameters have the potential to develop practical solutions and devices for automatic AF detection with minimal sets of simple HRV parameters. Using straightforward ML classifiers and the extremely small sets of simple HRV features, always with pRR50 included, the differentiation of AF from sinus rhythms in the 60 s ECGs is very effective. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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14 pages, 1574 KiB  
Article
Combined Effects of Age and Comorbidities on Electrocardiographic Parameters in a Large Non-Selected Population
by Paolo Giovanardi, Cecilia Vernia, Enrico Tincani, Claudio Giberti, Federico Silipo and Andrea Fabbo
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(13), 3737; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11133737 - 28 Jun 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2388
Abstract
Background: Previous studies have evaluated average electrocardiographic (ECG) values in healthy subjects or specific subpopulations. However, none have evaluated ECG average values in not selected populations, so we examined ECG changes with respect to age and sex in a large primary population. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background: Previous studies have evaluated average electrocardiographic (ECG) values in healthy subjects or specific subpopulations. However, none have evaluated ECG average values in not selected populations, so we examined ECG changes with respect to age and sex in a large primary population. Methods: From digitized ECG stored from 2008 to 2021 in the Modena province, 130,471 patients were enrolled. Heart rate, P, QRS and T wave axis, P, QRS and T wave duration, PR interval, QTc, and frontal QRS-T angle were evaluated. Results: All ECG parameters showed a dependence on age, but only some of them with a straight-line correlation: QRS axis (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.991, r = 0.996), PR interval (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.978, r = 0.989), QTc (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.935, r = 0.967), and, in over 51.5 years old, QRS-T angle (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.979, r = 0.956). Differences between females and males and in different clinical settings were observed. Conclusions: ECG changes with ageing are explainable by intrinsic modifications of the heart and thorax and with the appearance of cardiovascular diseases and comorbidities. Age-related reference values were computed and applicable in clinical practice. Significant deviations from mean values and from Z-scores should be investigated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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15 pages, 1022 KiB  
Article
Clinical Data, Chest Radiograph and Electrocardiography in the Screening for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: The CAR2E2 Score
by Patrycja S. Matusik, Amira Bryll, Agnieszka Pac, Tadeusz J. Popiela and Paweł T. Matusik
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(13), 3585; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11133585 - 22 Jun 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1919
Abstract
Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is associated with adverse clinical outcomes and implicates clinical decision-making. The aim of our study was to assess the importance of different approaches in the screening for LVH. We included patients who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging and [...] Read more.
Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is associated with adverse clinical outcomes and implicates clinical decision-making. The aim of our study was to assess the importance of different approaches in the screening for LVH. We included patients who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging and had available chest radiograph in medical documentation. Cardiothoracic ratio (CTR), transverse cardiac diameter (TCD), clinical and selected electrocardiographic (ECG)-LVH data, including the Peguero-Lo Presti criterion, were assessed. CMR–LVH was defined based on indexed left ventricular mass-to-body surface area. Receiver operating characteristics analyses showed that both the CTR and TCD (CTR: area under the curve: [AUC] = 0.857, p < 0.001; TCD: AUC = 0.788, p = 0.001) were predictors for CMR–LVH. However, analyses have shown that diagnoses made with TCD, but not CTR, were consistent with CMR–LVH. From the analyzed ECG–LVH criteria, the Peguero-Lo Presti criterion was the best predictor of LVH. The best sensitivity for screening for LVH was observed when the presence of heart failure, ≥40 years in age (each is assigned 1 point), increased TCD and positive Peguero-Lo Presti criterion (each is assigned 2 points) were combined (CAR2E2 score ≥ 3 points). CAR2E2 score may improve prediction of LVH compared to other approaches. Therefore, it may be useful in the screening for LVH in everyday clinical practice in patients with prevalent cardiovascular diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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11 pages, 1085 KiB  
Article
Fifteen-Year Differences in Indications for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy in International Guidelines—Insights from the Heart Failure Registries of the European Society of Cardiology
by Agata Tymińska, Krzysztof Ozierański, Emil Brociek, Agnieszka Kapłon-Cieślicka, Paweł Balsam, Michał Marchel, Maria G. Crespo-Leiro, Aldo P. Maggioni, Jarosław Drożdż, Grzegorz Opolski and Marcin Grabowski
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(11), 3236; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11113236 - 06 Jun 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2186
Abstract
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) applied to selected patients with heart failure (HF) improves their prognosis. In recent years, eligibility criteria for CRT have regularly changed. This study aimed to investigate the changes in eligibility of real-life HF patients for CRT over the past [...] Read more.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) applied to selected patients with heart failure (HF) improves their prognosis. In recent years, eligibility criteria for CRT have regularly changed. This study aimed to investigate the changes in eligibility of real-life HF patients for CRT over the past fifteen years. We reviewed European and North American guidelines from this period and applied them to HF patients from the ESC-HF Pilot and ESC-Long-Term Registries. Taking into consideration the criteria assessed in this study (including all classes of recommendations i.e., class I, IIa and IIb, as well as patients with AF and SR), the 2013 (ESC) guidelines would have qualified the most patients for CRT (266, 18.3%), while the 2015 (ESC) guidelines would have qualified the least (115, 7.9%; p-value for differences between all analyzed papers <0.0001). There were only 26 patients (1.8%) who would be eligible for CRT using the class I recommendations across all of the guidelines. These results demonstrate the variability in recommendations for CRT over the years. Moreover, this data indicates underuse of this form of pacing in HF and highlights the need for more studies in order to improve the outcomes of HF patients and further personalize their management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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14 pages, 1513 KiB  
Article
Sinus Node Dysfunction after Successful Atrial Flutter Ablation during Follow-Up: Clinical Characteristics and Predictors
by Guan-Yi Li, Fa-Po Chung, Tze-Fan Chao, Yenn-Jiang Lin, Shih-Lin Chang, Li-Wei Lo, Yu-Feng Hu, Ta-Chuan Tuan, Jo-Nan Liao, Ting-Yung Chang, Ling Kuo, Cheng-I Wu, Chih-Min Liu, Shin-Huei Liu, Wen-Han Cheng and Shih-Ann Chen
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(11), 3212; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11113212 - 04 Jun 2022
Viewed by 1936
Abstract
Identification of sinus node dysfunction (SND) before termination of persistent AFL by catheter ablation (CA) is challenging. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and predictors of acute and delayed SND after AFL ablation. We retrospectively enrolled 221 patients undergoing CA of persistent [...] Read more.
Identification of sinus node dysfunction (SND) before termination of persistent AFL by catheter ablation (CA) is challenging. This study aimed to investigate the characteristics and predictors of acute and delayed SND after AFL ablation. We retrospectively enrolled 221 patients undergoing CA of persistent AFL in a tertiary referral center. Patients with SND who required a temporary pacemaker (TPM) after termination of AFL or a permanent pacemaker (PPM) during follow-up were identified. Acute SND requiring a TPM was found in 14 of 221 (6.3%) patients following successful termination of AFL. A total of 10 of the 14 patients (71.4%) recovered from acute SND. An additional 11 (5%) patients presenting with delayed SND required a PPM during follow-up, including 4 patients recovering from acute SND. Of these, 9 of these 11 patients (81.8%) underwent PPM implantation within 1 year after the ablation. In multivariable analysis, female gender and a history of hypothyroidism were associated with the requirement for a TPM following termination of persistent AFL, while older age and a history of hypothyroidism predicted PPM implantation. This study concluded that the majority of patients with acute SND still require a PPM implantation despite the initial improvement. Therefore, it is reasonable to monitor the patients closely for at least one year after AFL ablation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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12 pages, 1661 KiB  
Article
Prevalence of Arrhythmia in Adults after Fontan Operation
by Magdalena Okólska, Grzegorz Karkowski, Marcin Kuniewicz, Jacek Bednarek, Jacek Pająk, Beata Róg, Jacek Łach, Jacek Legutko and Lidia Tomkiewicz-Pająk
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(7), 1968; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11071968 - 01 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1859
Abstract
Structural, hemodynamic, and morphological cardiac changes following Fontan operation (FO) can contribute to the development of arrhythmias and conduction disorders. Sinus node dysfunction, junction rhythms, tachyarrhythmias, and ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) are some of the commonly reported arrhythmias. Only a few studies have analyzed [...] Read more.
Structural, hemodynamic, and morphological cardiac changes following Fontan operation (FO) can contribute to the development of arrhythmias and conduction disorders. Sinus node dysfunction, junction rhythms, tachyarrhythmias, and ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) are some of the commonly reported arrhythmias. Only a few studies have analyzed this condition in adults after FO. This study aimed to determine the type and prevalence of arrhythmias and conduction disorders among patients who underwent FO and were under the medical surveillance of the John Paul II Hospital in Krakow. Data for the study were obtained from 50 FO patients (mean age 24 ± 5.7 years; 28 men (56%)). The median follow-up time was 4 (2–9) years. Each patient received a physical examination, an echocardiographic assessment, and a 24 h electrocardiogram assessment. Bradyarrhythmia was diagnosed in 22 patients (44%), supraventricular tachyarrhythmias in 14 patients (28%), and VAs in 6 patients (12%). Six patients required pacemaker implantation, and three required radiofrequency catheter ablation (6%). Arrythmias is a widespread clinical problem in adults after FO. It can lead to serious haemodynamic impairment, and therefore requires early diagnosis and effective treatment with the use of modern approaches, including electrotherapy methods. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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12 pages, 1684 KiB  
Article
In-Hospital and One-Year Outcomes of Patients after Early and Late Resuscitated Cardiac Arrest Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction—Data from a Nationwide Database
by Robert Kowalik, Marek Gierlotka, Krzysztof Ozierański, Przemysław Trzeciak, Anna Fojt, Piotr Feusette, Agnieszka Tycińska, Grzegorz Opolski, Marcin Grabowski and Mariusz Gąsior
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(3), 609; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11030609 - 26 Jan 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1470
Abstract
The prognostic role of early (less than 48 h) resuscitated cardiac arrest (ErCA) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is still controversial. The present study aimed to analyse the short-term and one-year outcomes of patients after ErCA and late resuscitated cardiac arrest (LrCA) compared [...] Read more.
The prognostic role of early (less than 48 h) resuscitated cardiac arrest (ErCA) complicating acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is still controversial. The present study aimed to analyse the short-term and one-year outcomes of patients after ErCA and late resuscitated cardiac arrest (LrCA) compared to patients without cardiac arrest (CA) complicating AMI. Data from the prospective nationwide Polish Registry of Acute Coronary Syndromes (PL-ACS) were used to assess patients with resuscitated cardiac arrest (rCA) after AMI. Baseline clinical characteristics and the predictors of all-cause death were assessed. The all-cause mortality rate, complications, performed procedures, and re-hospitalisations were assessed for the in-hospital period, 30 days after discharge, and 6- and 12-month follow-ups. Among 167,621 cases of AMI, CA occurred in 3564 (2.1%) patients, that is, 3100 (87%) and 464 (13%) patients with ErCA and LrCA, respectively. The mortality rates in the ErCA vs. LrCA and CA vs. non-CA groups were as follows: in-hospital: 32.1% vs. 59.1% (p < 0.0001) and 35.6% vs. 6.0% (p < 0.0001); 30-day: 2.2% vs. 3.2% (p = 0.42) and 9.9% vs. 5.2% (p < 0.0001); 6-month: 9.2% vs. 17.9% (p = 0.0001) and 12.3% vs. 21.1% (p < 0.0001); and 12-month: 12.3% vs. 21.1% (p = 0.001) and 13% vs. 7.7% (p < 0.0001), respectively. ErCA (hazard ratio (HR): 1.54, confidence interval (CI):1.28–1.89; p < 0.0001) and LrCA (HR: 2.34, CI: 1.39–3.93; p = 0.001) increased the risk of 12-month mortality. During the 12-month follow-up, patients after LrCA more frequently required hospitalisation due to heart failure compared to patients after ErCA. ErCA was related to a higher hospitalisation rate due to coronary-related causes and a higher rate of percutaneous coronary intervention. An episode of LrCA was associated with higher in-hospital and long-term mortality compared to ErCA. ErCA and LrCA were independent risk factors for one-year mortality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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11 pages, 2242 KiB  
Article
Contact Force-Sensing versus Standard Catheters in Non-Fluoroscopic Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation of Idiopathic Outflow Tract Ventricular Arrhythmias
by Grzegorz Karkowski, Marcin Kuniewicz, Andrzej Ząbek, Edward Koźluk, Maciej Dębski, Paweł T. Matusik and Jacek Lelakowski
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(3), 593; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11030593 - 25 Jan 2022
Viewed by 2616
Abstract
Background: Adequate contact between the catheter tip and tissue is important for optimal lesion formation and, in some procedures, it has been associated with improved effectiveness and safety. We evaluated the potential benefits of contact force-sensing (CFS) catheters during non-fluoroscopic radiofrequency catheter ablation [...] Read more.
Background: Adequate contact between the catheter tip and tissue is important for optimal lesion formation and, in some procedures, it has been associated with improved effectiveness and safety. We evaluated the potential benefits of contact force-sensing (CFS) catheters during non-fluoroscopic radiofrequency catheter ablation (NF-RFCA) of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) originating from outflow tracts (OTs). Methods: A group of 102 patients who underwent NF-RFCA (CARTO, Biosense Webster Inc., Irvine, CA, USA) of VAs from OTs between 2014 to 2018 was retrospectively analyzed. Results: We included 52 (50.9%) patients in whom NF-RFCA was performed using CFS catheters and 50 (49.1%) who were ablated using standard catheters. Arrhythmias were localized in the right and left OT in 70 (68.6%) and 32 (31.4%) patients, respectively. The RFCA acute success rate was 96.1% (n = 98) and long-term success during a minimum 12-month follow-up (mean 51.3 ± 21.6 months) was 85.3% (n = 87), with no difference between CFS and standard catheters. There was no difference in complications rate between CFS (n = 1) and standard catheter (n = 2) ablations. Conclusions: There is no additional advantage of CFS catheters use over standard catheters during NF-RFCA of OT-VAs in terms of procedural effectiveness and safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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9 pages, 4356 KiB  
Article
Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics of Patients with Pause-Dependent Atrioventricular Block
by Sok-Sithikun Bun, Florian Asarisi, Nathan Heme, Fabien Squara, Didier Scarlatti, Philippe Taghji, Jean-Claude Deharo, Pamela Moceri and Emile Ferrari
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(2), 449; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11020449 - 16 Jan 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2254
Abstract
Background: In patients with complete atrioventricular block (AVB), the prevalence and clinical characteristics of patients with pause-dependent AVB (PD-AVB) is not known. Our objective was to assess the prevalence of PD-AVB in a population of patients with complete (or high-grade) AVB. Methods: Twelve-lead [...] Read more.
Background: In patients with complete atrioventricular block (AVB), the prevalence and clinical characteristics of patients with pause-dependent AVB (PD-AVB) is not known. Our objective was to assess the prevalence of PD-AVB in a population of patients with complete (or high-grade) AVB. Methods: Twelve-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and/or telemonitoring from patients admitted (from September 2020 to November 2021) for complete (or high-degree) AVB were prospectively collected at the University Hospital of Nice. The ECG tracings were analyzed by an electrophysiologist to determine the underlying mechanism of PD-AVB. Results: 100 patients were admitted for complete (or high-grade) AVB (men 55%; 82 ± 12 years). Arterial hypertension was present in 68% of the patients. Baseline QRS width was 117 ± 32 ms, and mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 56 ± 7%. Fourteen patients (14%) with PD-AVB were identified, and presented similar clinical characteristics in comparison with patients without PD-AVB, except for syncope (which was present in 86% versus 51% in the non-PD-AVB patients, p = 0.01). PD-AVB sequence was induced by: Premature atrial contraction (8/14), premature ventricular contraction (5/14), His extrasystole (1/14), conduction block in a branch (1/14), and atrial tachycardia termination (1/14). All patients with PD-AVB received a dual-chamber pacemaker during hospitalization. Conclusion: The prevalence of PD-AVB was 14%, and may be underestimated. PD-AVB episodes were more likely associated with syncope in comparison with patients without PD-AVB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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13 pages, 1194 KiB  
Article
Sex Differences in Incidence, Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes in Children and Young Adults Hospitalized for Clinically Suspected Myocarditis in the Last Ten Years—Data from the MYO-PL Nationwide Database
by Krzysztof Ozierański, Agata Tymińska, Aleksandra Skwarek, Marcin Kruk, Beata Koń, Jarosław Biliński, Grzegorz Opolski and Marcin Grabowski
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(23), 5502; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm10235502 - 24 Nov 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2159
Abstract
There is a widespread lack of systematic knowledge about myocarditis in children and young adults in European populations. The MYO-PL nationwide study aimed to evaluate sex differences in the incidence, clinical characteristics, management and outcomes of all young patients with a clinical diagnosis [...] Read more.
There is a widespread lack of systematic knowledge about myocarditis in children and young adults in European populations. The MYO-PL nationwide study aimed to evaluate sex differences in the incidence, clinical characteristics, management and outcomes of all young patients with a clinical diagnosis of myocarditis, hospitalized in the last ten years. The study involved data (from the only public healthcare insurer in Poland) of all (n = 3659) patients aged 0–20 years hospitalized for myocarditis in the years 2011–2019. We assessed clinical characteristics, management and five-year outcomes. Males comprised 75.4% of the study population. The standardized incidence rate of myocarditis increased over the last ten years and was, on average, 7.8 and 2.5 (in males and females, respectively). It was the highest (19.5) in males aged 16–20 years. The highest rates of hospital admissions occurred from late autumn to early spring. Most myocarditis-directed diagnostic procedures, including laboratory tests, echocardiography, coronary angiography, cardiac magnetic resonance and endomyocardial biopsy, were performed in a low number of patients, particularly in females. Most patients required rehospitalization for cardiovascular reasons. The results of this large epidemiological study showed an increasing incidence of myocarditis hospitalizations in young patients over last ten years and that it was sex-, age- and season-dependent. Survival in young patients with myocarditis was age- and sex-related and usually it was worse than in the national population. The general management of myocarditis requires significant improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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15 pages, 24235 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Prognosis of Febrile Individuals with Right Precordial Coved-Type ST-Segment Elevation Brugada Pattern: A 10-Year Prospective Follow-Up Study
by Chin-Feng Tsai, Yao-Tsung Chuang, Jing-Yang Huang and Kwo-Chang Ueng
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(21), 4997; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm10214997 - 27 Oct 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2935
Abstract
A febrile state may provoke a Brugada electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern and trigger ventricular tachyarrhythmias in susceptible individuals. However, the prognostic value of fever-induced Brugada ECG pattern remains unclear. We analyzed the clinical and extended long-term follow-up data of consecutive febrile patients with a [...] Read more.
A febrile state may provoke a Brugada electrocardiogram (ECG) pattern and trigger ventricular tachyarrhythmias in susceptible individuals. However, the prognostic value of fever-induced Brugada ECG pattern remains unclear. We analyzed the clinical and extended long-term follow-up data of consecutive febrile patients with a type 1 Brugada ECG presented to the emergency department. A total of 21 individuals (18 males; mean age, 43.7 ± 18.6 years at diagnosis) were divided into symptomatic (resuscitated cardiac arrest in one, syncope in two) and asymptomatic (18, 86%) groups. Sustained polymorphic ventricular tachycardias were inducible in two patients with previous syncope. All 18 asymptomatic patients had no spontaneous type 1 Brugada ECG recorded at second intercostal space and no family history of sudden death. Among asymptomatic individuals, 4 had a total 12 of repeated non-arrhythmogenic febrile episodes all with recurrent type 1 Brugada ECGs, and none had a ventricular arrhythmic event during 116 ± 19 months of follow-up. In the symptomatic group, two had defibrillator shocks for a new arrhythmic event at 31- and 49 months follow-up, respectively, and one without defibrillator therapy died suddenly at 8 months follow-up. A previous history of aborted sudden death or syncope was significantly associated with adverse outcomes in symptomatic compared with asymptomatic individuals (log-rank p < 0.0001). In conclusion, clinical presentation or history of syncope is the most important parameter in the risk stratification of febrile patients with type 1 Brugada ECG. Asymptomatic individuals with a negative family history of sudden death and without spontaneous type 1 Brugada ECG, have an exceptionally low future risk of arrhythmic events. Careful follow-up with timely and aggressive control of fever is an appropriate management option. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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12 pages, 1450 KiB  
Article
Occurrence, Trends, Management and Outcomes of Patients Hospitalized with Clinically Suspected Myocarditis—Ten-Year Perspectives from the MYO-PL Nationwide Database
by Krzysztof Ozierański, Agata Tymińska, Marcin Kruk, Beata Koń, Aleksandra Skwarek, Grzegorz Opolski and Marcin Grabowski
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(20), 4672; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm10204672 - 12 Oct 2021
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2580
Abstract
The epidemiology of myocarditis is unknown and based mainly on small single-centre studies. The study aimed to evaluate the current incidence, clinical characteristics, management and outcomes of patients hospitalized due to myocarditis in a general population. The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04827706). [...] Read more.
The epidemiology of myocarditis is unknown and based mainly on small single-centre studies. The study aimed to evaluate the current incidence, clinical characteristics, management and outcomes of patients hospitalized due to myocarditis in a general population. The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04827706). The nationwide MYO-PL (the occurrence, trends, management and outcomes of patients with myocarditis in Poland) database (years 2009–2020) was created to identify hospitalization records with a primary diagnosis of myocarditis according to the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision (ICD 10), derived from the database of the national healthcare insurer. We identified 19,978 patients who were hospitalized with suspected myocarditis for the first time, of whom 74% were male. The standardized incidence rate of myocarditis ranged from 1.15 to 14 per 100,000 people depending on the age group and was the highest in patients aged 16–20 years. The overall incidence increased with time. The performance of the recommended diagnostic tests (in particular, endomyocardial biopsy) was low. Relative five-year survival ranged from 0.99 to 0.56—worse in younger females and older males. During a five-year follow-up, 6% of patients (3.7% and 6.9% in females and males, respectively) were re-hospitalized for myocarditis. Surprisingly, females more frequently required hospitalization due to heart failure/cardiomyopathy (10.5%) and atrial fibrillation (5%) than compared to males (7.3% and 2.2%, respectively) in the five-year follow up. In the last ten years, the incidence of suspected myocarditis increased, particularly in males. Survival rates for patients with myocarditis were worse than in the general population. Management of myocarditis requires significant improvement. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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11 pages, 284 KiB  
Article
Heart Rate Variability and Its Associations with Organ Complications in Adults after Fontan Operation
by Magdalena Okólska, Jacek Łach, Paweł T. Matusik, Jacek Pająk, Tomasz Mroczek, Piotr Podolec and Lidia Tomkiewicz-Pająk
J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(19), 4492; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm10194492 - 29 Sep 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1716
Abstract
Reduction of heart rate variability (HRV) parameters may be a risk factor and precede the occurrence of arrhythmias or the development of heart failure and complications in people with postinfarct left ventricular dysfunction and after coronary artery bypass grafting. Data on this issue [...] Read more.
Reduction of heart rate variability (HRV) parameters may be a risk factor and precede the occurrence of arrhythmias or the development of heart failure and complications in people with postinfarct left ventricular dysfunction and after coronary artery bypass grafting. Data on this issue in adults after a Fontan operation (FO) are scarce. This study assessed the association between HRV, exercise capacity, and multiorgan complications in adults after FO. Data were obtained from 30 FO patients (mean age 24 ± 5.4 years) and 30 healthy controls matched for age and sex. HRV was investigated in all patients by clinical examination, laboratory tests, echocardiography, a cardiopulmonary exercise test, and 24-h electrocardiogram. The HRV parameters were reduced in the FO group. Reduced HRV parameters were associated with patients’ age at the time of FO, time since surgery, impaired exercise capacity, chronotropic incompetence parameters, and multiorgan complications. Univariate analysis showed that saturated O2 at rest, percentage difference between adjacent NN intervals of >50 ms duration, and peak heart rate were associated with chronotropic index. Multivariable analysis revealed that all three variables were independent predictors of the chronotropic index. The results of this study suggest novel pathophysiological mechanisms that link HRV, physical performance, and organ damage in patients after FO. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)

Review

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18 pages, 3123 KiB  
Review
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Remodelling for the Prognosis of Maintaining Sinus Rhythm after Electrical Cardioversion in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
by Paweł Wałek, Joanna Roskal-Wałek, Patryk Dłubis and Beata Wożakowska-Kapłon
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(15), 5158; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm12155158 - 07 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1223
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common atrial tachyarrhythmia. One of the methods of AF treatment is direct current cardioversion (DCCV), but in the long-term follow-up we observe quite a high percentage of AF recurrences after this procedure. In order to assess the [...] Read more.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common atrial tachyarrhythmia. One of the methods of AF treatment is direct current cardioversion (DCCV), but in the long-term follow-up we observe quite a high percentage of AF recurrences after this procedure. In order to assess the prognosis of DCCV effectiveness, we use clinical, biochemical and echocardiographic parameters. The objective of this review is to systematise the current knowledge on echocardiographic measurements in patients with persistent AF used to assess the progress of remodelling of the atrial wall, which affects the likelihood of maintaining sinus rhythm after DCCV. In this article, echocardiographic parameters for the evaluation of remodelling of the atrial wall are divided into groups referring to structural, mechanical, and electrical remodelling, as well as parameters for the evaluation of left ventricular filling pressure. The article aims to draw attention to the clinical value of echocardiographic measurements, which is the selection of patients who will maintain sinus rhythm after DCCV in the long-term follow-up, which will allow to avoid unnecessary risks associated with the procedure and enable the selection of the appropriate treatment strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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14 pages, 1666 KiB  
Review
Pathogenesis and Management of Brugada Syndrome: Recent Advances and Protocol for Umbrella Reviews of Meta-Analyses in Major Arrhythmic Events Risk Stratification
by Hasina Masha Aziz, Michał P. Zarzecki, Sebastian Garcia-Zamora, Min Seo Kim, Piotr Bijak, Gary Tse, Hong-Hee Won and Paweł T. Matusik
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(7), 1912; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11071912 - 30 Mar 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 7793
Abstract
Brugada syndrome (BrS) is a primary electrical disease associated with life-threatening arrhythmias. It is estimated to cause at least 20% of sudden cardiac deaths (SCDs) in patients with normal cardiac anatomy. In this review paper, we discuss recent advances in complex BrS pathogenesis, [...] Read more.
Brugada syndrome (BrS) is a primary electrical disease associated with life-threatening arrhythmias. It is estimated to cause at least 20% of sudden cardiac deaths (SCDs) in patients with normal cardiac anatomy. In this review paper, we discuss recent advances in complex BrS pathogenesis, diagnostics, and current standard approaches to major arrhythmic events (MAEs) risk stratification. Additionally, we describe a protocol for umbrella reviews to systematically investigate clinical, electrocardiographic, electrophysiological study, programmed ventricular stimulation, and genetic factors associated with BrS, and the risk of MAEs. Our evaluation will include MAEs such as sustained ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, appropriate implantable cardioverter–defibrillator therapy, sudden cardiac arrest, and SCDs from previous meta-analytical studies. The protocol was written following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA-P) guidelines. We plan to extensively search PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases for meta-analyses concerning risk-stratification in BrS. Data will be synthesized integratively with transparency and accuracy. Heterogeneity patterns across studies will be reported. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology, A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2), and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) are planned to be applied for design and execution of our evidence-based research. To the best of our knowledge, these will be the first umbrella reviews to critically evaluate the current state of knowledge in BrS risk stratification for life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, and will potentially contribute towards evidence-based guidance to enhance clinical decisions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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13 pages, 666 KiB  
Review
Caveolin-3 and Arrhythmias: Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms
by Miaomiao He, Jie Qiu, Yan Wang, Yang Bai and Guangzhi Chen
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(6), 1595; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11061595 - 14 Mar 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2499
Abstract
Caveolin-3 is a muscle-specific protein on the membrane of myocytes correlated with a variety of cardiovascular diseases. It is now clear that the caveolin-3 plays a critical role in the cardiovascular system and a significant role in cardiac protective signaling. Mutations in the [...] Read more.
Caveolin-3 is a muscle-specific protein on the membrane of myocytes correlated with a variety of cardiovascular diseases. It is now clear that the caveolin-3 plays a critical role in the cardiovascular system and a significant role in cardiac protective signaling. Mutations in the gene encoding caveolin-3 cause a broad spectrum of clinical phenotypes, ranging from persistent elevations in the serum levels of creatine kinase in asymptomatic humans to cardiomyopathy. The influence of Caveolin-3(CAV-3) mutations on current density parallels the effect on channel trafficking. For example, mutations in the CAV-3 gene promote ventricular arrhythmogenesis in long QT syndrome 9 by a combined decrease in the loss of the inward rectifier current (IK1) and gain of the late sodium current (INa-L). The functional significance of the caveolin-3 has proved that caveolin-3 overexpression or knockdown contributes to the occurrence and development of arrhythmias. Caveolin-3 overexpression could lead to reduced diastolic spontaneous Ca2+ waves, thus leading to the abnormal L-Type calcium channel current-induced ventricular arrhythmias. Moreover, CAV-3 knockdown resulted in a shift to more negative values in the hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide channel 4 current (IHCN4) activation curve and a significant decrease in IHCN4 whole-cell current density. Recent evidence indicates that caveolin-3 plays a significant role in adipose tissue and is related to obesity development. The role of caveolin-3 in glucose homeostasis has attracted increasing attention. This review highlights the underlining mechanisms of caveolin-3 in arrhythmia. Progress in this field may contribute to novel therapeutic approaches for patients prone to developing arrhythmia. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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11 pages, 2217 KiB  
Systematic Review
Rhythm vs. Rate Control in Patients with Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation after Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Muneeb Ahmed, Emilie P. Belley-Coté, Yuan Qiu, Peter Belesiotis, Brendan Tao, Alex Wolf, Hargun Kaur, Alex Ibrahim, Jorge A. Wong, Michael K. Wang, Jeff S. Healey, David Conen, Philip James Devereaux, Richard P. Whitlock and William F. Mcintyre
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(13), 4534; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm12134534 - 07 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1562
Abstract
Background: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common complication after cardiac surgery; it is associated with morbidity and mortality. We undertook this review to compare the effects of rhythm vs. rate control in this population. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL [...] Read more.
Background: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) is the most common complication after cardiac surgery; it is associated with morbidity and mortality. We undertook this review to compare the effects of rhythm vs. rate control in this population. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL to March 2023. We included randomized trials and observational studies comparing rhythm to rate control in cardiac surgery patients with POAF. We used a random-effects model to meta-analyze data and rated the quality of evidence using GRADE. Results: From 8,110 citations, we identified 8 randomized trials (990 patients). Drug regimens used for rhythm control included amiodarone in four trials, other class III anti-arrhythmics in one trial, class I anti-arrhythmics in four trials and either a class I or III anti-arrhythmic in one trial. Rhythm control compared to rate control did not result in a significant difference in length of stay (mean difference −0.8 days; 95% CI −3.0 to +1.4, I2 = 97%), AF recurrence within 1 week (130 events; risk ratio [RR] 1.1; 95%CI 0.6–1.9, I2 = 54%), AF recurrence up to 1 month (37 events; RR 0.9; 95%CI 0.5–1.8, I2 = 0%), AF recurrence up to 3 months (10 events; RR 1.0; 95%CI 0.3–3.4, I2 = 0%) or mortality (25 events; RR 1.6; 95%CI 0.7–3.5, I2 = 0%). Effect measures from seven observational studies (1428 patients) did not differ appreciably from those in randomized trials. Conclusions: Although atrial fibrillation is common after cardiac surgery, limited low-quality data guide its management. Limited available evidence suggests no clear advantage to either rhythm or rate control. A large-scale randomized trial is needed to inform this important clinical question. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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Graphical abstract

13 pages, 527 KiB  
Systematic Review
Structural Heart Alterations in Brugada Syndrome: Is it Really a Channelopathy? A Systematic Review
by Antonio Oliva, Simone Grassi, Vilma Pinchi, Francesca Cazzato, Mónica Coll, Mireia Alcalde, Marta Vallverdú-Prats, Alexandra Perez-Serra, Estefanía Martínez-Barrios, Sergi Cesar, Anna Iglesias, José Cruzalegui, Clara Hernández, Victoria Fiol, Elena Arbelo, Nuria Díez-Escuté, Vincenzo Arena, Josep Brugada, Georgia Sarquella-Brugada, Ramon Brugada and Oscar Campuzanoadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(15), 4406; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/jcm11154406 - 28 Jul 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1959
Abstract
Brugada syndrome (BrS) is classified as an inherited cardiac channelopathy attributed to dysfunctional ion channels and/or associated proteins in cardiomyocytes rather than to structural heart alterations. However, hearts of some BrS patients exhibit slight histologic abnormalities, suggesting that BrS could be a phenotypic [...] Read more.
Brugada syndrome (BrS) is classified as an inherited cardiac channelopathy attributed to dysfunctional ion channels and/or associated proteins in cardiomyocytes rather than to structural heart alterations. However, hearts of some BrS patients exhibit slight histologic abnormalities, suggesting that BrS could be a phenotypic variant of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy. We performed a systematic review of the literature following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Statement (PRISMA) criteria. Our comprehensive analysis of structural findings did not reveal enough definitive evidence for reclassification of BrS as a cardiomyopathy. The collection and comprehensive analysis of new cases with a definitive BrS diagnosis are needed to clarify whether some of these structural features may have key roles in the pathophysiological pathways associated with malignant arrhythmogenic episodes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Frontiers in Electrocardiography, Cardiac Arrhythmias, and Arrhythmogenic Disorders)
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