Journal of cardiac failure
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Comparative Study
Accuracy of Doppler echocardiography to estimate key hemodynamic variables in subjects with normal left ventricular ejection fraction.
The accuracy of Doppler echocardiography to estimate key hemodynamic parameters in subjects with normal left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) has not been fully investigated. ⋯ Single Doppler echocardiography parameters are not accurate enough to reliably estimate key hemodynamic parameters, particularly PCWP, in subjects with normal LVEF.
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Red-cell distribution width (RDW) has been identified as a novel prognostic marker in heart failure patients. However, evidence is limited for its predictive value in the setting of patients hospitalized with decompensated heart failure (DHF) and no data are available for African Americans (AA). ⋯ Discharge RDW is an independent predictor of all-cause mortality in predominantly AA patients hospitalized with DHF. Further research is warranted to delineate underlying pathophysiological mechanisms including the association between statin use and RDW.
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Review Comparative Study
Palliative care in advanced heart failure: an international review of the perspectives of recipients and health professionals on care provision.
People with advanced heart failure (HF) have demonstrable supportive and palliative care needs. Effective service configuration and delivery should be informed by the views of those with personal experience and knowledge and should be based on available evidence. This systematic literature review aimed to collate qualitative and quantitative evidence on: 1) patients' perceived needs and experiences of care provision; and 2) the perspectives and understanding of health professionals on care delivery. ⋯ This review demonstrates the need for improvement in coordination of care and communication between patients, their families, and health care professionals. However, although there is broad agreement between the disciplines of cardiology and palliative care regarding the provision of therapies to reduce symptoms, improve function, and enhance quality of life, differences in views may arise, particularly regarding the maintenance of life-prolonging treatment as goals of care change.
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Comparative Study
Increased left atrial volume index predicts a poor prognosis in patients with heart failure.
Left atrial volume index (LAVI) is known to reflect the duration and severity of increased left atrial pressure caused by left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction. However, the prognostic value of LAVI in patients with heart failure (HF) has not been fully investigated. ⋯ LAVI may be useful for stratification of risk in patients with HF.
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Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Ambulatory rehabilitation improves exercise capacity in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
Rehabilitation is a central treatment modality for patients with chronic cardiopulmonary disease. Physical exertion for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has typically been discouraged. Inpatient pulmonary rehabilitation has been shown to improve exercise capacity in patients with PAH. The present study aimed to evaluate outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation for patients with PAH. ⋯ clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT00544726.