Cardiol J
-
Complete improvement of left ventricle (LV) systolic function is an essential feature of takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC). It is suggested that 2-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D STE) can evaluate LV dysfunction more accurately than conventional echocardiography. Thus, the purpose of this research was to assertain whether LV function recovery is complete after the acute phase of TTC using 2D STE commencing 6 to 9 months after discharge. ⋯ The improvement of LV function in patients with TTC as assessed by 2D STE may not always be complete. Some residual abnormalities in LV apex function were observed in long-term recovery following TTC episodes.
-
Conduction disturbances requiring permanent pacemaker implantation following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) are a common problem. Pacemaker implantation rates after TAVR appear to be higher compared to conventional aortic valve replacement. The aim of this study was to analyze whether a high annulus implantation conveys the benefit of a decreased rate of permanent pacemaker implantation while being safe and successful according to Valve Academic Research Consortium 2 (VARC2)-criteria. ⋯ The approach of the modified implantation technique of Lotus TAVR device was safe and effective. The incidence of need for a permanent pacemaker following TAVR could be significantly reduced due to adopted implantation protocol.
-
The Amplatzer Amulet (St. Jude Medical, Minneapolis, MN, USA) is a second gen-eration Amplatzer device for left atrial appendage (LAA) occlusion (LAAO) for stroke prophylaxis in patients with atrial fibrillation. This research sought to assess the clinical performance of the Amplatzer Amulet device and in follow up for 12 months. ⋯ Although minimizing procedure-related complications remains challenging, LAAO with the Amplatzer Amulet device showed high procedural success and excellent LAA sealing. (Cardiol J 2017; 24, 2: 131-138).