What We See through Cardiac Imaging

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

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 September 2024 | Viewed by 5479

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua Medical School, Padua, Italy
Interests: multimodality imaging; echocardiography; cardiac-computed tomography

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua Medical School, Padua, Italy
Interests: multimodality imaging; cardiac magnetic resonance

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Whether for routine examination or following a cardiac event, there are several modalities to evaluate cardiomyopathies. Cardiac imaging has many possibilities through the accurate identification of structural modifications and trends in measurements and dynamic alterations, which are key to ensuring timely and lifesaving therapies are provided. Patients with cardiomyopathies sometimes live a long part of their lives facing problems such as life-threatening arrhythmias, progressive heart failure and increased risk of sudden cardiac death. The resolution and diagnostic capabilities of each imaging technique vary to provide an option for each indication.

What to do and how to use different imaging modalities in different clinical scenarios in cardiomyopathies is of utmost importance to ensure patients a good quality of life and prognosis.

“What We See through Cardiac Imaging” welcomes original articles that empathize with the role of the multimodality approach to provide a complete view of the patient’s cardiovascular system in every specific condition related to cardiomyopathy. The articles will cover the application of multimodality imaging both for diagnostic and prognostic purposes, including the specific indication for each modality to choose the correct workflow approach also combining clinical and genetic findings.

Dr. Valeria Pergola
Dr. Martina Perazzolo Marra
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • cardiomyopathies
  • multimodality imaging
  • echocardiography
  • cardiac-computed tomography
  • cardiac magnetic resonance
  • prognosis
  • arrhythmias
  • heart failure

Published Papers (4 papers)

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Review

16 pages, 2038 KiB  
Review
The Postoperative Paradoxical Septum (POPS): A Comprehensive Review on Physio-Pathological Mechanisms
by Emanuele Di Virgilio, Paolo Basile, Maria Cristina Carella, Francesco Monitillo, Daniela Santoro, Michele Davide Latorre, Silvia D’Alessandro, Laura Fusini, Fabio Fazzari, Gianluca Pontone and Andrea Igoren Guaricci
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(8), 2309; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13082309 - 17 Apr 2024
Viewed by 786
Abstract
The interventricular septum (IVS) is a core myocardial structure involved in biventricular coupling and performance. Physiologically, during systole, it moves symmetrically toward the center of the left ventricle (LV) and opposite during diastole. Several pathological conditions produce a reversal or paradoxical septal motion, [...] Read more.
The interventricular septum (IVS) is a core myocardial structure involved in biventricular coupling and performance. Physiologically, during systole, it moves symmetrically toward the center of the left ventricle (LV) and opposite during diastole. Several pathological conditions produce a reversal or paradoxical septal motion, such as after uncomplicated cardiac surgery (CS). The postoperative paradoxical septum (POPS) was observed in a high rate of cases, representing a unicum in the panorama of paradoxical septa as it does not induce significant ventricular morpho-functional alterations nor negative clinical impact. Although it was previously considered a postoperative event, evidence suggests that it might also appear during surgery and gradually resolve over time. The mechanism behind this phenomenon is still debated. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive review of the various theories generated over the past fifty years to explain its pathological basis. Finally, we will attempt to give a heuristic interpretation of the biventricular postoperative motion pattern based on the switch of the ventricular anchor points. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue What We See through Cardiac Imaging)
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14 pages, 5033 KiB  
Review
The Ross Procedure: Imaging, Outcomes and Future Directions in Aortic Valve Replacement
by Domenico Galzerano, Naji Kholaif, Bandar Al Amro, Mohammed Al Admawi, Abdalla Eltayeb, Amal Alshammari, Giovanni Di Salvo and Zohair Y. Al-Halees
J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13(2), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm13020630 - 22 Jan 2024
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Abstract
The Ross procedure is gaining recognition as a significant option for aortic valve replacement (AVR), and is particularly beneficial in specific patient groups. Although categorized as a class IIb recommendation in the 2020 American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA), and the [...] Read more.
The Ross procedure is gaining recognition as a significant option for aortic valve replacement (AVR), and is particularly beneficial in specific patient groups. Although categorized as a class IIb recommendation in the 2020 American College of Cardiology (ACC)/American Heart Association (AHA), and the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) management guidelines on valvular heart disease, recent studies bolster its credibility. Research, including a propensity-matched study, underlines the Ross procedure’s association with enhanced long-term survival and reduced adverse valve-related events compared to other AVR types. This positions the Ross procedure as a primary option for AVR in young and middle-aged adults within specialized centers, and potentially the only choice for children and infants requiring AVR. This review meticulously examines the Ross procedure, covering historical perspectives, surgical techniques, imaging, and outcomes, including hemodynamic performance and quality of life, especially focusing on pediatric and young adult patients. It explores contemporary techniques and innovations like minimally invasive approaches and tissue engineering, underscoring ongoing research and future directions. A summarization of comparative studies and meta-analyses reiterates the Ross procedure’s superior long-term outcomes, valve durability, and preservation of the left ventricular function, accentuating the crucial role of patient selection and risk stratification, and pinpointing areas for future research. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue What We See through Cardiac Imaging)
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27 pages, 9224 KiB  
Review
Multimodality Imaging in Advanced Heart Failure for Diagnosis, Management and Follow-Up: A Comprehensive Review
by Valeria Pergola, Matteo Cameli, Giulia Mattesi, Saima Mushtaq, Antonello D’Andrea, Andrea Igoren Guaricci, Maria Concetta Pastore, Filippo Amato, Carlo Maria Dellino, Raffaella Motta, Martina Perazzolo Marra, Santo Dellegrottaglie, Roberto Pedrinelli, Sabino Iliceto, Savina Nodari, Pasquale Perrone Filardi, Gianluca Pontone and on behalf of the Cluster Imaging of Italian Society of Cardiology (SIC)
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(24), 7641; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12247641 - 12 Dec 2023
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Abstract
Advanced heart failure (AHF) presents a complex landscape with challenges spanning diagnosis, management, and patient outcomes. In response, the integration of multimodality imaging techniques has emerged as a pivotal approach. This comprehensive review delves into the profound significance of these imaging strategies within [...] Read more.
Advanced heart failure (AHF) presents a complex landscape with challenges spanning diagnosis, management, and patient outcomes. In response, the integration of multimodality imaging techniques has emerged as a pivotal approach. This comprehensive review delves into the profound significance of these imaging strategies within AHF scenarios. Multimodality imaging, encompassing echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), nuclear imaging and cardiac computed tomography (CCT), stands as a cornerstone in the care of patients with both short- and long-term mechanical support devices. These techniques facilitate precise device selection, placement, and vigilant monitoring, ensuring patient safety and optimal device functionality. In the context of orthotopic cardiac transplant (OTC), the role of multimodality imaging remains indispensable. Echocardiography offers invaluable insights into allograft function and potential complications. Advanced methods, like speckle tracking echocardiography (STE), empower the detection of acute cell rejection. Nuclear imaging, CMR and CCT further enhance diagnostic precision, especially concerning allograft rejection and cardiac allograft vasculopathy. This comprehensive imaging approach goes beyond diagnosis, shaping treatment strategies and risk assessment. By harmonizing diverse imaging modalities, clinicians gain a panoramic understanding of each patient’s unique condition, facilitating well-informed decisions. The aim is to highlight the novelty and unique aspects of recently published papers in the field. Thus, this review underscores the irreplaceable role of multimodality imaging in elevating patient outcomes, refining treatment precision, and propelling advancements in the evolving landscape of advanced heart failure management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue What We See through Cardiac Imaging)
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17 pages, 10572 KiB  
Review
Epicardial and Pericoronary Adipose Tissue, Coronary Inflammation, and Acute Coronary Syndromes
by Gianluigi Napoli, Valeria Pergola, Paolo Basile, Daniele De Feo, Fulvio Bertrandino, Andrea Baggiano, Saima Mushtaq, Laura Fusini, Fabio Fazzari, Nazario Carrabba, Mark G. Rabbat, Raffaella Motta, Marco Matteo Ciccone, Gianluca Pontone and Andrea Igoren Guaricci
J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(23), 7212; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12237212 - 21 Nov 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1361
Abstract
Vascular inflammation is recognized as the primary trigger of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, current noninvasive methods are not capable of accurately detecting coronary inflammation. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT), in addition to their role as an energy reserve [...] Read more.
Vascular inflammation is recognized as the primary trigger of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, current noninvasive methods are not capable of accurately detecting coronary inflammation. Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and pericoronary adipose tissue (PCAT), in addition to their role as an energy reserve system, have been found to contribute to the development and progression of coronary artery calcification, inflammation, and plaque vulnerability. They also participate in the vascular response during ischemia, sympathetic stimuli, and arrhythmia. As a result, the evaluation of EAT and PCAT using imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT), cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), and nuclear imaging has gained significant attention. PCAT-CT attenuation, which measures the average CT attenuation in Hounsfield units (HU) of the adipose tissue, reflects adipocyte differentiation/size and leukocyte infiltration. It is emerging as a marker of tissue inflammation and has shown prognostic value in coronary artery disease (CAD), being associated with plaque development, vulnerability, and rupture. In patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), an inflammatory pericoronary microenvironment promoted by dysfunctional EAT/PCAT has been demonstrated, and more recently, it has been associated with plaque rupture in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). Endothelial dysfunction, known for its detrimental effects on coronary vessels and its association with plaque progression, is bidirectionally linked to PCAT. PCAT modulates the secretory profile of endothelial cells in response to inflammation and also plays a crucial role in regulating vascular tone in the coronary district. Consequently, dysregulated PCAT has been hypothesized to contribute to type 2 myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) and coronary vasculitis. Recently, quantitative measures of EAT derived from coronary CT angiography (CCTA) have been included in artificial intelligence (AI) models for cardiovascular risk stratification. These models have shown incremental utility in predicting major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) compared to plaque characteristics alone. Therefore, the analysis of PCAT and EAT, particularly through PCAT-CT attenuation, appears to be a safe, valuable, and sufficiently specific noninvasive method for accurately identifying coronary inflammation and subsequent high-risk plaque. These findings are supported by biopsy and in vivo evidence. Although speculative, these pieces of evidence open the door for a fascinating new strategy in cardiovascular risk stratification. The incorporation of PCAT and EAT analysis, mainly through PCAT-CT attenuation, could potentially lead to improved risk stratification and guide early targeted primary prevention and intensive secondary prevention in patients at higher risk of cardiac events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue What We See through Cardiac Imaging)
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