Name: echocardiographic evaluation of atrial communications before transcatheter closure
Uploaded: 2022-02-08T13:00:00
Description: Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure at JoVE.com

Project no. NVKP 16-1&#8211;2016-0017 (&#8217;National Heart Program&#8217;) has been implemented with the support provided by the National Research, Development, and Innovation Fund of Hungary, financed under the NVKP 16 funding scheme. The research was financed by the Thematic Excellence Programme (2020-4.1.1.-TKP2020) of the Ministry for Innovation and Technology in Hungary, within the framework of the Therapeutic Development and Bioimaging thematic programs of the Semmelweis University.&#160;

In the following part we describe the protocol steps of clinical and imaging evaluation of atrial communications before transcatheter closure based on international clinical guidelines. These protocols follow the guidelines of the Semmelweis University Regional and Institutional Committee of Science and Research Ethics. Informed written patient consent is needed.
1. Clinical evaluation and workflow of cryptogen stroke and PFO for transcatheter closure
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	<li>For the diagn...

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	<li>Meier, B., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Percutaneous+closure+of+patent+foramen+ovale+in+cryptogenic+embolism.">Percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale in cryptogenic embolism.</a> New England Journal of Medicine. 368 (12), 1083-1091 (2013).</li><li>Silvestry, F. E., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=et+al.Guidelines+for+the+Echocardiographic+Assessment+of+Atrial+Septal+Defect+and+Patent+Foramen+Ovale:+From+the+American+Society+of+Echocardiography+and+Society+for+Cardiac+Angiography+and+Interventions.">et al.Guidelines for the Echocardiographic Assessment of Atrial Septal Defect and Patent Foramen Ovale: From the American Society of Echocardiography and Society for Cardiac Angiography and Interventions.</a> Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography. 28 (8), 910-958 (2015).</li><li>Saric, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Guidelines+for+the+Use+of+Echocardiography+in+the+Evaluation+of+a+Cardiac+Source+of+Embolism.">Guidelines for the Use of Echocardiography in the Evaluation of a Cardiac Source of Embolism.</a> Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography. 29 (1), 1-42 (2016).</li><li>Krumsdorf, U., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Incidence+and+clinical+course+of+thrombus+formation+on+atrial+septal+defect+and+patient+foramen+ovale+closure+devices+in+1,000+consecutive+patients.">Incidence and clinical course of thrombus formation on atrial septal defect and patient foramen ovale closure devices in 1,000 consecutive patients.</a> Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 43 (2), 302-309 (2004).</li><li>Canpolat, U., G&#252;rses, K. M., Sunman, H., Kaya, E. B., Aytemir, K., Oto, A. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Embolic+stroke+due+to+left+atrial+thrombus+2+years+after+PFO+closure.">Embolic stroke due to left atrial thrombus 2 years after PFO closure.</a> Herz. 39 (1), 161-162 (2014).</li><li>Butera, G., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Treatment+of+isolated+secundum+atrial+septal+defects:+impact+of+age+and+defect+morphology+in+1,013+consecutive+patients.">Treatment of isolated secundum atrial septal defects: impact of age and defect morphology in 1,013 consecutive patients.</a> American Heart Journal. 156 (4), 706-712 (2008).</li><li>Badano, L. P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Standardization+of+left+atrial,+right+ventricular,+and+right+atrial+deformation+imaging+using+two-dimensional+speckle+tracking+echocardiography:+a+consensus+document+of+the+EACVI/ASE/Industry+Task+Force+to+standardize+deformation+imaging.">Standardization of left atrial, right ventricular, and right atrial deformation imaging using two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography: a consensus document of the EACVI/ASE/Industry Task Force to standardize deformation imaging.</a> European Heart Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging. 19 (6), 591-600 (2018).</li><li>Hayashi, S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Optimal+Analysis+of+Left+Atrial+Strain+by+Speckle+Tracking+Echocardiography:+P-wave+versus+R-wave+Trigger.">Optimal Analysis of Left Atrial Strain by Speckle Tracking Echocardiography: P-wave versus R-wave Trigger.</a> Echocardiography. 32 (8), 1241-1249 (2015).</li><li>Rudski, L. G., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Guidelines+for+the+echocardiographic+assessment+of+the+right+heart+in+adults:+a+report+from+the+American+Society+of+Echocardiography+endorsed+by+the+European+Association+of+Echocardiography,+a+registered+branch+of+the+European+Society+of+Cardiology,+and+the+Canadian+Society+of+Echocardiography.">Guidelines for the echocardiographic assessment of the right heart in adults: a report from the American Society of Echocardiography endorsed by the European Association of Echocardiography, a registered branch of the European Society of Cardiology, and the Canadian Society of Echocardiography.</a> Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography. 23 (7), 685-713 (2010).</li><li>Wu, V. C., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Prognostic+value+of+LA+volumes+assessed+by+transthoracic+3D+echocardiography:+comparison+with+2D+echocardiography.">Prognostic value of LA volumes assessed by transthoracic 3D echocardiography: comparison with 2D echocardiography.</a> Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Cardiovascular Imaging. 6 (10), 1025-1035 (2013).</li><li>Badano, L. P., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Left+Atrial+Volumes+and+Function+by+Three-Dimensional+Echocardiography:+Reference+Values,+Accuracy,+Reproducibility,+and+Comparison+With+Two-Dimensional+Echocardiographic+Measurements.">Left Atrial Volumes and Function by Three-Dimensional Echocardiography: Reference Values, Accuracy, Reproducibility, and Comparison With Two-Dimensional Echocardiographic Measurements.</a> Circulation: Cardiovascular Imaging. 9 (7), (2016).</li><li>Edvardsen, T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+year+2015-16+in+the+European+Heart+Journal-Cardiovascular+Imaging.+Part+II.">The year 2015-16 in the European Heart Journal-Cardiovascular Imaging. Part II.</a> European Heart Journal: Cardiovascular Imaging. 18 (12), 1322-1330 (2017).</li><li>Galderisi, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Standardization+of+adult+transthoracic+echocardiography+reporting+in+agreement+with+recent+chamber+quantification,+diastolic+function,+and+heart+valve+disease+recommendations:+an+expert+consensus+document+of+the+European+Association+of+Cardiovascular+Imaging.">Standardization of adult transthoracic echocardiography reporting in agreement with recent chamber quantification, diastolic function, and heart valve disease recommendations: an expert consensus document of the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging.</a> Europen Heart Journal: Cardiovascular Imaging. 18 (12), 1301-1310 (2017).</li><li>Marriott, K., Manins, V., Forshaw, A., Wright, J., Pascoe, R. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Detection+of+right-to-left+atrial+communication+using+agitated+saline+contrast+imaging:+experience+with+1162+patients+and+recommendations+for+echocardiography.">Detection of right-to-left atrial communication using agitated saline contrast imaging: experience with 1162 patients and recommendations for echocardiography.</a> Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography. 26 (1), 96-102 (2013).</li><li>Mojadidi, M. K., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=et+al+Accuracy+of+conventional+transthoracic+echocardiography+for+the+diagnosis+of+intracardiac+right-to-left+shunt:+a+meta-analysis+of+prospective+studies.">et al Accuracy of conventional transthoracic echocardiography for the diagnosis of intracardiac right-to-left shunt: a meta-analysis of prospective studies.</a> Echocardiography. 31 (9), 1036-1048 (2014).</li><li>Mojadidi, M. K., Bogush, N., Caceres, J. D., Msaouel, P., Tobis, J. M. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Diagnostic+accuracy+of+transesophageal+echocardiogram+for+the+detection+of+patent+foramen+ovale:+a+meta-analysis.">Diagnostic accuracy of transesophageal echocardiogram for the detection of patent foramen ovale: a meta-analysis.</a> Echocardiography. 31 (6), 752-758 (2014).</li><li>Staubach, S., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=New+onset+atrial+fibrillation+after+patent+foramen+ovale+closure.">New onset atrial fibrillation after patent foramen ovale closure.</a> Catheter and Cardiovascular Interventions. 74 (6), 889-895 (2009).</li><li>Singh, H. S., Katchi, F., Naidu, S. S. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=PFO+Closure+for+Cryptogenic+Stroke:+A+Review+and+Clinical+Treatment+Algorithm.">PFO Closure for Cryptogenic Stroke: A Review and Clinical Treatment Algorithm.</a> Cardiology in Review. 25 (4), 147-157 (2017).</li><li>Sanna, T., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Cryptogenic+stroke+and+underlying+atrial+fibrillation.">Cryptogenic stroke and underlying atrial fibrillation.</a> New England Journal of Medicine. 370 (26), 2478-2486 (2014).</li><li>Prefasi, D., Mart&#237;nez-S&#225;nchez, P., Fuentes, B., D&#237;ez-Tejedor, E. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=The+utility+of+the+RoPE+score+in+cryptogenic+stroke+patients+&#8804;50+years+in+predicting+a+stroke-related+patent+foramen+ovale.">The utility of the RoPE score in cryptogenic stroke patients &#8804;50 years in predicting a stroke-related patent foramen ovale.</a> International Journal of Stroke. 11 (1), 7-8 (2016).</li><li>Yamano, M., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=et+al+Appropriate+selection+of+echocardiographic+guidance+for+transcatheter+atrial+septal+defect+closure.">et al Appropriate selection of echocardiographic guidance for transcatheter atrial septal defect closure.</a> International Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging. 36 (5), 855-863 (2020).</li><li>Oto, A., et al. <a target="_blank" href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Search&doptcmdl=Citation&defaultField=Title+Word&term=Transthoracic+echocardiography+guidance+during+percutaneous+closure+of+patent+foramen+ovale.">Transthoracic echocardiography guidance during percutaneous closure of patent foramen ovale.</a> Echocardiography. 28 (10), 1074-1080 (2011).</li></ol>

Careful patient selection for transcatheter PFO closure represents one of the most challanging steps of the clinical evaluation, as ruling out atrial fibrillation can be difficult. Several trials in the past few years have suggested greater yield with longer term monitoring to detect atrial fibrillation.18 The Cryptogenic Stroke and Underlying Atrial Fibrillation (CRYSTAL-AF) trial detected increased atrial fibrillation rate in the insertable cardiac monitor group (8,9%) compared with standard mon...

Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) is not a true tissue deficiency of atrial septum; it is present in about 20-25% of&#160;the adult population, and in most cases it does not have any clinical significance (Figure 1). Cryptogenic stroke accounts for ~30% of ischemic strokes and is defined as a&#160;condition without an apparent cause at the early inpatient work-up. Patients under 45 years of age represent 10% of stroke burden with as much as 40% defined as cryptogenic. Secondary prevention of stroke using transcatheter closure technique remains paramount in reducing morbidity and mortality1.
Atrial septal defects (ASDs) include different lesions on different atrial septum locations, resulting in shunting. The most common form is ostium secundum ASD, usually optimal for percutan devise closure. ASDs are generally discovered during the workup of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction and/or dilatation, and rarely after a suspected paradoxical embolism or cryptogenic stroke2,3.
Transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal (TEE) echocardiography is performed for qualitative and quantitative assessment of atrial septum deficiencies. Three dimensional (3D) TEE provides more in depth information of the interatrial septum, and it gives more precise imaging of catheters and the closure device during intraoperative guiding. Postoperative follow up evaluations with TTE should be performed at 1, 6, and 12 months after the procedure, with a subsequent evaluation every year to assess device position, residual shunts, pericardial effusion, changes in size and function of the cardiac chambers and pulmonary circulation. Further advanced echocardiography techniques using speckle tracking echocardiography may help to understand potential functional left atrial remodeling following percutaneous closure and its impact on atrial arrhythmias2.

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			<td height="42" style="height:42px;width:219px;">TomTec Imaging workstation</td>
			<td style="width:242px;">TomTec Imaging, Unterschleissheim, Germany</td>
			<td style="width:151px;"></td>
			<td style="width:206px;">4D LALV Function analysing software</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="42">
			<td height="42" style="height:42px;width:219px;">Ultrasound machine</td>
			<td style="width:242px;">Philips Epiq CvX</td>
			<td style="width:151px;">serial number US81881251</td>
			<td style="width:206px;">X5-1 and X7 transducers</td>
		</tr>
		<tr height="42">
			<td height="42" style="height:42px;width:219px;">Wiwe external ECG single chanel recorder</td>
			<td style="width:242px;">Sanat Metal</td>
			<td style="width:151px;">5-810-200-1611</td>
			<td style="width:206px;">external ECG single chanel recorder</td>
		</tr>
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echocardiographic evaluation of atrial communications before transcatheter closure

Transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is the standard imaging method for atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent foramen ovale (PFO) detection, for patient selection for transcatheter ASD/PFO closure,&#160;for intraoperative guidance and for long-term follow-up. The size, shape, location and the number of the atrial communications schould be determined. The accuracy of PFO detection can be improved by using agitated saline together with maneuvers to transiently increase the right atrial (RA) pressure. The appearance of microbubbles in the left atrium (LA) within 3 cardiac cycles after opacification of the RA is considered positive for the presence of an intracardiac shunt. Three dimensional TEE identifies further septal fenestrations and describes the dynamic morphology of ASD/PFO and atrial septal aneurysm. Follow-up evaluations with TTE is recommended at 1, 6, and 12 months after the procedure, with a subsequent evaluation every year. Previous studies showed an increased incidence of atrial arrhythmias early after device closure. Speckle tracking analysis may help to understand functional left atrial remodeling following percutaneous closure and its impact on atrial arrhythmias.

Clinical evaluation of symptomatic, 41 years old female patient revealed ostium secundum type ASD and floppy atrial septum using TTE and TEE examination 
TTE examination showed right ventricular and biatrial enlargement with elevated pulmonary artery systolic pressure. TEE examination was used to estimate the size and shape of ASD using 2D and 3D methods. 2D, 3D native and balloon sizing TEE measurements were compared (Figure 4, Figure 5, <...

Watch this Scientific Journal Video about Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure at JoVE.com

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure

Transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal (TEE) echocardiography represent the basic imaging tools for interatrial septum examination. Three dimensional (3D) TEE provides incremental information in the assessment of the interatrial septum. Further advanced echocardiography techniques using speckle tracking echocardiography are applied for sensitive volumetric and functional assessment of the heart chambers.&#160;

Transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is the standard imaging method for atrial septal defect (ASD) and patent foramen ovale ...

Transthoracic and transesophagael health cardiography is the standard imaging method to detect interatrial septum deficiencies, to select patients for transcatheter closure, to guide the interatrial procedure, and to follow up the patients. So with dimensional, transesophageal echocardiography provides a more in depth information of the interatrial septum determining the size, shape, location and the number of the interatrial communications. Three dimensional echocardiography images are used for planning and guiding the treatment of interatrial communications.Visibility assessment for transcatheter closure and deployment of the closure device are guided by this technique. Left atrial mechanical function, tightly correlates with the prognosis of cardiac disease. Advanced echocardiography techniques can further clarify the interplay between atrial function and the closure of interatrial defects.For 2D transthoracic echocardiographic imaging. With the patient lying on the left decubitus position with the left arm placed under the head, use the subxiphoid frontal four chamber view to obtain a good actual resolution to allow measurement of the diameter of the defect along its long axis. Use the ethical four chamber view to estimate the hemodynamic consequences of the interatrial left to right shunting, including the right ventricular dilation, and the right ventricular pressure.Then, use the parasternal short axis view to measure the aortic and posterior rib of the septal defect. For conventional volumetric and functional left atrial measurements to provide the highest frame rate per cardiac cycle without significantly decreasing spatial resolution during speckle tracking. Set the zero strain reference at the left ventricular and diastole in the 2D left atrial strain curve.And calculate the left atrial strain values of each phase as the difference of two of these measurements. Next, perform a 2D evaluation to allow measurement of the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion. The right ventricular fractional area change and the Doppler Tissue Imaging Sprime velocity.To assess the right ventricle systolic function, perform 3D analysis. Obtain electrocardiographic gated full volume of 3D dataset from the apical 4-chamber view for 3D left ventricle and right ventricle volume and function measurements. Using the incremental prognostic value over 2D parameters.Then, perform conventional 2D volumetric and functional left atrial and ventricle measurements. Including, a left ventricle diastolic function assessment using mitral inflow and annual Tissue Doppler Imaging and assess the right ventricular global longitudinal strain. After obtaining informed written consent, place there at least four hour fasted patient with removed dental fixtures in the appropriate position and apply a suitable tropical oral folugin anesthesia and intravenous sedatives.Monitoring the echocardiogram blood pressure and oxygen saturation throughout the procedure. Use the image to define the number, size, and location of the defects. As well as the surrounding atrial septal tissue rims, and the presence of the atrial septal aneurysm.Use conventional 2D and 3D transesophageal echocardiographic views to determine the consequence of the arterial septal defects. Mid esophageal by cable and aortic valve short axis views are the most important planes to evaluate ASD. To verify communication through the foramen Use agitated syringe contrast during the Valve cell to maneuver.When the right atrial pressure temporarily increases the overlapping septum primum and secundum will open and the bubbles will cross the pattern foramen ovale canal from the right atrial to the left atrial within three cardiac cycles. For a 3D transesophageal echocardiographic imaging, in the mid esophageal short axis view, use the narrow angled and wide angled modes to obtain additional information on the complex and dynamic anatomy of interatrial septum and measure the size of the atrial septal defect at the atrial and diastole and systole in alphas views in either the right or left arteries. Next, use the mid esophageal by cable and short axis view to advance the guide wires through the patent foramen ovale tunnel.And the atrial septum defect before delivering the closure device into position. Then, use fluoroscopy and transesophageal echocardiographic imaging to perform balloon sizing of the stretched diameter of the atrial septum defect. When all of the measurements have been obtained before detaching the delivery system, assess the presence of the residual shunt evaluation and use four chamber short axis and bicaval transesophageal echocardiographic views to measure the atrial septal tissue rim and the atrial roof to the closure device distances.In this representative analysis transthoracic echocardiographic examination was used to assess the right ventricular and biatrial enlargement and pulmonary artery systolic pressures. Transesophageal echocardiographic examination was used to estimate the size and shape of the atrial septal defect using 2D and 3D methods. In this interoperative 3D zoom image, the opening in the left-sided disc of the patent foreman of our closure device in the left atrium during its approach to the interatrial septum could be observed.Upon full deployment, the device could be observed with the interatrial septum between the left and right-sided disc as illustrated using a correctly sized intraoperative balloon via 2D imaging is essential to obtaining an accurate measurement. As in cases of floppy atrial septal, the fully stretched atrial septal defect size can be underestimated Even with 3D measurements. Cardiac MRI can still be performed after septal defect closure.Changes in right particular function and size and assessment of residue these are the questions this method can answer. Advanced a cardiographic techniques Using speckle tracking method can be applied for sensitive volumetric and functional assessment of the atrial to evaluate potential atrial remedy link.

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Medicine

The WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device for Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, affecting an estimated 6 million people in the United States 1. Since AF affects primarily elderly people, its prevalence increases parallel with age. As such, it is expected that 15.9 million Americans will be affected by the year 2050 2. Ischemic stroke occurs in 5% of non-anticoagulated AF patients each year. Current treatments for AF include rate control, rhythm control and prevention of stroke 3.
The American College of Cardiology, American Heart Association, and European Society of Cardiology currently recommended rate control as the first course of therapy for AF 3. Rate control is achieved by administration of pharmacological agents, such as &beta;-blockers, that lower the heart rate until it reaches a less symptomatic state 3. Rhythm control aims to return the heart to its normal sinus rhythm and is typically achieved through administration of antiarrhythmic drugs such as amiodarone, electrical cardioversion or ablation therapy. Rhythm control methods, however, have not been demonstrated to be superior to rate-control methods 4-6. In fact, certain antiarrhythmic drugs have been shown to be associated with higher hospitalization rates, serious adverse effects 3, or even increases in mortality in patients with structural heart defects 7. Thus, treatment with antiarrhythmics is more often used when rate-control drugs are ineffective or contraindicated. Rate-control and antiarrhythmic agents relieve the symptoms of AF, including palpitations, shortness of breath, and fatigue 8, but don't reliably prevent thromboembolic events 6.
Treatment with the anticoagulant drug warfarin significantly reduces the rate of stroke or embolism 9,10. However, because of problems associated with its use, fewer than 50% of patients are treated with it. The therapeutic dose is affected by drug, dietary, and metabolic interactions, and thus requires detailed monitoring. In addition, warfarin has the potential to cause severe, sometimes lethal, bleeding 2. As an alternative, aspirin is commonly prescribed. While aspirin is typically well tolerated, it is far less effective at preventing stroke 10. Other alternatives to warfarin, such as dabigatran 11 or rivaroxaban 12 demonstrate non-inferiority to warfarin with respect to thromboembolic events (in fact, dabigatran given as a high dose of 150 mg twice a day has shown superiority). While these drugs have the advantage of eliminating dietary concerns and eliminating the need for regular blood monitoring, major bleeding and associated complications, while somewhat less so than with warfarin, remain an issue 13-15.
Since 90% of AF-associated strokes result from emboli that arise from the left atrial appendage (LAA) 2, one alternative approach to warfarin therapy has been to exclude the LAA using an implanted device to trap blood clots before they exit. Here, we demonstrate a procedure for implanting the WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device. A transseptal cannula is inserted through the femoral vein, and under fluoroscopic guidance, inter-atrial septum is crossed. Once access to the left atrium has been achieved, a guidewire is placed in the upper pulmonary vein and the WATCHMAN Access Sheath and dilator are advanced over the wire into the left atrium. The guidewire is removed, and the access sheath is carefully advanced into the distal portion of the LAA over a pigtail catheter. The WATCHMAN Delivery System is prepped, inserted into the access sheath, and slowly advanced. The WATCHMAN device is then deployed into the LAA. The device release criteria are confirmed via fluoroscopy and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and the device is released.

The accompanying video describes a procedure for percutaneous placement of the WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) Device. The WATCHMAN is a nitinol device designed to be permanently implanted at, or slightly distal to, the opening of the left atrial appendage (LAA) to trap blood clots before they exit the LAA, preventing thromboembolic stroke.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia, affecting an estimated 6 million people in the United States 1. Since AF affects primarily ...

Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, affecting millions of individuals worldwide 1-3. The rapid, irregular, and disordered electrical activity in the atria gives rise to palpitations, fatigue, dyspnea, chest pain and dizziness with or without syncope 4, 5. Patients with AF have a five-fold higher risk of stroke 6.
Oral anticoagulation (OAC) with warfarin is commonly used for stroke prevention in patients with AF and has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke by 64% 7. Warfarin therapy has several major disadvantages, however, including bleeding, non-tolerance, interactions with other medications and foods, non-compliance and a narrow therapeutic range 8-11. These issues, together with poor appreciation of the risk-benefit ratio, unawareness of guidelines, or absence of an OAC monitoring outpatient clinic may explain why only 30-60% of patients with AF are prescribed this drug 8.
The problems associated with warfarin, combined with the limited efficacy and/or serious side effects associated with other medications used for AF 12,13, highlight the need for effective non-pharmacological approaches to treatment. One such approach is catheter ablation (CA), a procedure in which a radiofrequency electrical current is applied to regions of the heart to create small ablation lesions that electrically isolate potential AF triggers 4. CA is a well-established treatment for AF symptoms 14, 15, that may also decrease the risk of stroke. Recent data showed a significant decrease in the relative risk of stroke and transient ischemic attack events among patients who underwent ablation compared with those undergoing antiarrhythmic drug therapy 16.
Since the left atrial appendage (LAA) is the source of thrombi in more than 90% of patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation 17, another approach to stroke prevention is to physically block clots from exiting the LAA. One method for occluding the LAA is via percutaneous placement of the WATCHMAN LAA closure device. The WATCHMAN device resembles a small parachute. It consists of a nitinol frame covered by fabric polyethyl terephthalate that prevents emboli, but not blood, from exiting during the healing process. Fixation anchors around the perimeter secure the device in the LAA (Figure 1). To date, the WATCHMAN is the only implanted percutaneous device for which a randomized clinical trial has been reported. In this study, implantation of the WATCHMAN was found to be at least as effective as warfarin in preventing stroke (all-causes) and death (all-causes) 18. This device received the Conformit&eacute; Europ&eacute;enne (CE) mark for use in the European Union for warfarin eligible patients and in those who have a contraindication to anticoagulation therapy 19.
Given the proven effectiveness of CA to alleviate AF symptoms and the promising data with regard to reduction of thromboembolic events with both CA and WATCHMAN implantation, combining the two procedures is hoped to further reduce the incidence of stroke in high-risk patients while simultaneously relieving symptoms. The combined procedure may eventually enable patients to undergo implantation of the WATCHMAN device without subsequent warfarin treatment, since the CA procedure itself reduces thromboembolic events. This would present an avenue of treatment previously unavailable to patients ineligible for warfarin treatment because of recurrent bleeding 20 or other warfarin-associated problems.
The combined procedure is performed under general anesthesia with biplane fluoroscopy and TEE guidance. Catheter ablation is followed by implantation of the WATCHMAN LAA closure device. Data from a non-randomized trial with 10 patients demonstrates that this procedure can be safely performed in patients with a CHADS2 score of greater than 1 21. Further studies to examine the effectiveness of the combined procedure in reducing symptoms from AF and associated stroke are therefore warranted.

Catheter ablation is combined with placement of the WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure Device to prevent ischemic stroke in a patient with non-valvular atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia, affecting millions of individuals worldwide 1-3. The rapid, irregular, and ...

Echocardiographic Assessment of the Right Heart in Mice

Transgenic and toxic models of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are widely used to study the pathophysiology of PAH and to investigate potential therapies. Given the expense and time involved in creating animal models of disease, it is critical that researchers have tools to accurately assess phenotypic expression of disease. Right ventricular dysfunction is the major manifestation of pulmonary hypertension. Echocardiography is the mainstay of the noninvasive assessment of right ventricular function in rodent models and has the advantage of clear translation to humans in whom the same tool is used. Published echocardiography protocols in murine models of PAH are lacking.
In this article, we describe a protocol for assessing RV and pulmonary vascular function in a mouse model of PAH with a dominant negative BMPRII mutation; however, this protocol is applicable to any diseases affecting the pulmonary vasculature or right heart. We provide a detailed description of animal preparation, image acquisition and hemodynamic calculation of stroke volume, cardiac output and an estimate of pulmonary artery pressure.

This article provides a protocol for the echocardiographic assessment of right ventricular size and pulmonary hypertension in mice. Applications include phenotype determination and serial assessment in transgenic and toxin-induced mouse models of cardiomyopathy and pulmonary vascular disease.

Transgenic and toxic models of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are widely used to study the pathophysiology of PAH and to investigate potential ...

Robotic Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation

Background: Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an established treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). During PVI an electrical conduction block between pulmonary vein (PV) and left atrium (LA) is created. This conduction block prevents AF, which is triggered by irregular electric activity originating from the PV. However, transmural atrial lesions are required which can be challenging. Re-conduction and AF recurrence occur in 20 - 40% of the cases. Robotic catheter systems aim to improve catheter steerability. Here, a procedure with a new remote catheter system (RCS), is presented. Objective of this article is to show feasibility of robotic AF ablation with a novel system. Materials and Methods: After interatrial trans-septal puncture is performed using a long sheath and needle under fluoroscopic guidance. The needle is removed and a guide wire is placed in the left superior PV. Then an ablation catheter is positioned in the LA, using the sheath and wire as guide to the LA. LA angiography is performed over the sheath. A circular mapping catheter is positioned via the long sheath into the LA and a three-dimensional (3-D) anatomical reconstruction of the LA is performed. The handle of the ablation catheter is positioned in the robotic arm of the Amigo system and the ablation procedure begins. During the ablation procedure, the operator manipulates the ablation catheter via the robotic arm with the use of a remote control. The ablation is performed by creating point-by-point lesions around the left and right PV ostia. Contact force is measured at the catheter tip to provide feedback of catheter-tissue contact. Conduction block is confirmed by recording the PV potentials on the circular mapping catheter and by pacing maneuvers. The operator stays out of the radiationfield during ablation. Conclusion: The novel catheter system allows ablation with high stability on low operator fluoroscopy exposure.

Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with an ablation catheter is a curative treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). Robotic catheter systems aim to improve catheter steerability. Here, a procedure with a new robotic catheter system is presented. The goal of the procedure is electrical block between pulmonary vein and left atrium.

Background: Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an established treatment for atrial fibrillation (AF). During PVI an electrical conduction block between ...

Echocardiographic and Histological Examination of Cardiac Morphology in the Mouse

An increasing number of genetically modified mouse models has become available in recent years. Moreover, the number of pharmacological studies performed in mice is high. Phenotypic characterization of these mouse models also requires the examination of cardiac function and morphology. Echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are commonly used approaches to characterize cardiac function and morphology in mice. Echocardiographic and MRI equipment specialized for use in small rodents is&#160;expensive and requires a dedicated space. This protocol describes cardiac measurements in mice using a clinical echocardiographic system with a 15 MHz human vascular probe. Measurements are performed on anesthetized adult mice. At least three image sequences are recorded and analyzed for each animal in M-mode in the parasternal short-axis view. Afterwards, cardiac histological examination is performed, and cardiomyocyte diameters are determined on hematoxylin-eosin- or wheat germ agglutinin (WGA)-stained paraffin sections. Vessel density is determined morphometrically after Pecam-1 immunostaining. The protocol has been applied successfully to pharmacological studies and different genetic animal models under baseline conditions, as well as after experimental myocardial infarction by the permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD). In our experience, echocardiographic investigation is limited to anesthetized animals and is feasible in adult mice weighing at least 25 g.

Echocardiographic examination is frequently used in mice. Expensive high-resolution ultrasound devices have been developed for this purpose. This protocol describes an affordable echocardiographic procedure combined with histological morphometric analyses to determine cardiac morphology.

An increasing number of genetically modified mouse models has become available in recent years. Moreover, the number of pharmacological studies performed ...

A Case Series of Successful Abdominal Closure Utilizing a Novel Technique Combining a Mechanical Closure System with a Biologic Xenograft that Accelerates Wound Healing

In the acute setting, once intra-abdominal injuries have been addressed, the next great hurdle is restoring a functional and intact abdominal compartment. The short and long-term consequences of living with a chronically open abdominal compartment include pulmonary, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and emotional disability. The closure of catastrophic open abdomens presents a challenge to the surgeon. We present a technique utilizing a mechanical abdominal closure device in conjunction with biologic xenograft in closing complex open abdomens. This technique offers another option for definitive fascial closure and accelerated wound healing in this difficult patient population. The dynamic tissue system (DTS) is installed after control of original intraabdominal pathology. A porcine urinary bladder matrix (PUBM) is then placed in the subcutaneous space once fascial closure is achieved. Overall, primary myofascial closure was achieved in 100% of patients at a mean of 9.36 days.

Closure of catastrophic open abdominal wounds presents a challenge to the surgeon. We present a surgical technique utilizing a combination of mechanical and biologic xenograft closure systems in closing complex open abdominal wounds. This technique offers another option to the surgeon for definitive fascial closure and accelerated wound healing.

In the acute setting, once intra-abdominal injuries have been addressed, the next great hurdle is restoring a functional and intact abdominal compartment. ...

Echocardiographic Measurement of Right Ventricular Diastolic Parameters in Mouse

Diastolic dysfunction is a prominent feature of right ventricular (RV) remodeling associated with conditions of pressure overload. However, the RV diastolic function is rarely quantified in experimental studies. This might be due to technical difficulties in the visualization of the RV in the apical four-chamber view in rodents. Here we describe two positions facilitating the visualization of the apical four-chamber view in mice to assess the RV diastolic function.
The apical four-chamber view is enabled by tilting the mouse fixation platform to the left and caudally (LeCa) or to the right and cranially (RiCr). Both positions provide images of comparable quality. The results of the RV diastolic function obtained from two positions are not significantly different. Both positions are comparably easy to perform. This protocol can be incorporated into published protocols and enables detailed investigations of the RV function.

Here we describe and compare two positions for obtaining the apical four-chamber view in mice. These positions enable the quantification of the right ventricular function, provide comparable results, and can be used interchangeably.

Diastolic dysfunction is a prominent feature of right ventricular (RV) remodeling associated with conditions of pressure overload. However, the RV ...

Transthoracic Echocardiographic Examination in the Rabbit Model

Large animal models such as the rabbit are valuable for translational preclinical research. Rabbits have a similar cardiac electrophysiology compared to that of humans and that of other large animal models such as dogs and pigs. However, the rabbit model has the additional advantage of lower maintenance costs compared to other large animal models. The longitudinal evaluation of cardiac function using echocardiography, when appropriately implemented, is a useful methodology for preclinical assessment of novel therapies for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (e.g. cardiac regeneration). The correct use of this non-invasive tool requires the implementation of a standardized examination protocol following international guidelines. Here we describe, step by step, a detailed protocol supervised by veterinary cardiologists for performing echocardiography in the rabbit model, and demonstrate how to correctly obtain the different echocardiographic views and imaging planes, as well as the different imaging modes available in a clinical echocardiography system routinely used in human and veterinary patients.

Here we describe, step by step, a detailed protocol for performing echocardiography in the rabbit model. We show how to correctly obtain the different echocardiographic views and imaging planes, as well as the different imaging modes available in a clinical echocardiography system routinely used in human and veterinary patients.

Large animal models such as the rabbit are valuable for translational preclinical research. Rabbits have a similar cardiac electrophysiology compared to ...

Echocardiographic Assessment of Cardiac Anatomy and Function in Adult Rats

The use of experimental animal models has become crucial in cardiovascular science. Most studies using rodent models are focused on two-dimensional imaging to study the cardiac anatomy of the left ventricle and M-mode echo to assess its dimensions. However, this could limit a comprehensive study. Herein, we describe a protocol that allows an assessment of the heart chamber size, left ventricular function (systolic and diastolic) and valvular function. A conventional medical ultrasound machine was used in this protocol and different echo views were obtained through left parasternal, apical and suprasternal windows. In the left parasternal window, the long and short axis were acquired to analyze left chamber dimensions, right ventricle and pulmonary artery dimensions, and mitral, pulmonary and aortic valve function. The apical window allows the measurement of heart chamber dimensions and evaluation of systolic and diastolic parameters. It also allows Doppler assessment with detection and quantification of heart valve disturbances (regurgitation or stenosis). Different segments and walls of the left ventricle are visualized throughout all views. Finally, the ascending aorta, aortic arch, and descending aorta can be imaged through the suprasternal window. A combination of ultrasound imaging, Doppler flow and tissue Doppler assessment have been obtained to study cardiac morphology and function. This represents an important contribution to improve the assessment of cardiac function in adult rats with impact for research using these animal models.

A non-invasive protocol for transthoracic echocardiography assessment of cardiac anatomy and function for adult rats is presented in the current study. The heart valves, all four cardiac chambers and the ascending aorta, aortic arch and descending aorta are studied in detail.

The use of experimental animal models has become crucial in cardiovascular science. Most studies using rodent models are focused on two-dimensional ...

Evaluation of Capnography Sampling Line Compatibility and Accuracy when Used with a Portable Capnography Monitor

Capnography is commonly used to monitor patient&#8217;s ventilatory status. While sidestream capnography has been shown to provide a reliable assessment of end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2), its accuracy is commonly validated using commercial kits composed of a capnography monitor and its matching disposable nasal cannula sampling lines. The purpose of this study was to assess the compatibility and accuracy of cross-paired capnography sampling lines with a single portable bedside capnography monitor. A series of 4 bench tests were performed to evaluate the tensile strength, rise time, ETCO2 accuracy as a function of respiratory rate, and ETCO2 accuracy in the presence of supplemental O2. Each bench test was performed using specialized, validated equipment to allow for a full evaluation of sampling line performance. The 4 bench tests successfully differentiated between sampling lines from different commercial sources and suggested that due to increased rise time and decreased ETCO2 accuracy, not all nasal cannula sampling lines provide reliable clinical data when cross-paired with a commercial capnography monitor. Care should be taken to ensure that any cross-pairing of capnography monitors and disposable sampling lines is fully validated for use across respiratory rates and supplemental O2 flow rates commonly encountered in clinical settings.

The goal of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of capnography sampling lines used in conjunction with a portable bedside capnography monitor. Sampling lines from 7 manufacturers were evaluated for tensile strength, rise time, and ETCO2 accuracy as a function of respiratory rate or supplemental oxygen flow rate.

Capnography is commonly used to monitor patient&#8217;s ventilatory status. While sidestream capnography has been shown to provide a reliable assessment ...