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The visualization of heart rhythm disturbance and atrial fibrillation therapy allow the optimization of new cardiac catheter ablations. With the simulation software CST (Computer Simulation Technology, Darmstadt) electromagnetic and thermal simulations can be carried out to analyze and optimize different heart rhythm disturbance and cardiac catheters for pulmonary vein isolation. Another form of visualization is provided by haptic, three-dimensional print models. These models can be produced using an additive manufacturing method, such as a 3D printer. The aim of the study was to produce a 3D print of the Offenburg heart rhythm model with a representation of an atrial fibrillation ablation procedure to improve the visualization of simulation of cardiac catheter ablation.
The basis of 3D printing was the Offenburg heart rhythm model and the associated simulation of cryoablation of the pulmonary vein. The thermal simulation shows the pulmonary vein isolation of the left inferior pulmonary vein with the cryoballoon catheter Arctic Front AdvanceTM from Medtronic. After running through the simulation, the thermal propagation during the procedure was shown in the form of different colors. The three-dimensional print models were constructed on the base of the described simulation in a CAD program. Four different 3D printers are available for this purpose in a rapid prototyping laboratory at the University of Applied Science Offenburg. Two different printing processes were used: 1. a binder jetting printer with polymer gypsum and 2. a multi-material printer with photopolymer. A final print model with additional representation of the esophagus and internal esophagus catheter was also prepared for printing.
With the help of the thermal simulation results and the subsequent evaluation, it was possible to make a conclusion about the propagation of the cold emanating from the catheter in the myocardium and the surrounding tissue. It could be measured that already 3 mm from the balloon surface into the myocardium the temperature drops to 25 °C. The simulation model was printed using two 3D printing methods. Both methods as well as the different printing materials offer different advantages and disadvantages. While the first model made of polymer gypsum can be produced quickly and cheaply, the second model made of photopolymer takes five times longer and was twice as expensive. On the other hand, the second model offers significantly better properties and was more durable overall. All relevant parts, especially the balloon catheter and the conduction, are realistically represented. Only the thermal propagation in the form of different colors is not shown on this model.
Three-dimensional heart rhythm models as well as virtual simulations allow a very good visualization of complex cardiac rhythm therapy and atrial fibrillation treatment methods. The printed models can be used for optimization and demonstration of cryoballoon catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation.
The visualization of heart rhythm disturbance and atrial fibrillation therapy allows the optimization of new cardiac catheter ablations. With the simulation software CST (Computer Simulation Technology, Darmstadt) electromagnetic and thermal simulations can be carried out to analyze and optimize different heart rhythm disturbance and cardiac catheters for pulmonary vein isolation. Another form of visualization is provided by haptic, three-dimensional print models. These models can be produced using an additive manufacturing method, such as a 3d printer. The aim of the study was to produce a 3d print of the Offenburg heart rhythm model with a representation of an atrial fibrillation ablation procedure to improve the visualization of simulation of cardiac catheter ablation. The basis of 3d printing was the Offenburg heart rhythm model and the associated simulation of cryoablation of the pulmonary vein. The thermal simulation shows the pulmonary vein isolation of the left inferior pulmonary vein with the cryoballoon catheter Arctic Front Advance™ from Medtronic. After running through the simulation, the thermal propagation during the procedure was shown in the form of different colors. The three-dimensional print models were constructed on the base of the described simulation in a CAD program. Four different 3d printers are available for this purpose in a rapid prototyping laboratory at the University of Applied Science Offenburg. Two different printing processes were used and a final print model with additional representation of the esophagus and internal esophagus catheter was also prepared for printing. With the help of the thermal simulation results and the subsequent evaluation, it was possible to draw a conclusion about the propagation of the cold emanating from the catheter in the myocardium and the surrounding tissue. It was measured that just 3 mm from the balloon surface into the myocardium the temperature dropped to 25 °C. The simulation model was printed using two 3d printing methods. Both methods, as well as the different printing materials offer different advantages and disadvantages. All relevant parts, especially the balloon catheter and the conduction, are realistically represented. Only the thermal propagation in the form of different colors is not shown on this model. Three-dimensional heart rhythm models as well as virtual simulations allow very clear visualization of complex cardiac rhythm therapy and atrial fibrillation treatment methods. The printed models can be used for optimization and demonstration of cryoballoon catheter ablation in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) with biventricular pacing is an established therapy for heart failure (HF) patients (P) with ventricular desynchronization and reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction. The aim of this study was to evaluate electrical right atrial (RA), left atrial (LA), right ventricular (RV) and LV conduction delay with novel telemetric signal averaging electrocardiography (SAECG) in implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) P to better select P for CRT and to improve hemodynamics in cardiac pacing.
Methods: ICD-P (n=8, age 70.8 ± 9.0 years; 2 females, 6 males) with VVI-ICD (n=4), DDD-ICD (n=3) and CRT-ICD (n=1) (Medtronic, Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA) were analysed with telemetric ECG recording by Medronic programmer 2090, ECG cable 2090AB, PCSU1000 oscilloscope with Pc-Lab2000 software (Velleman®) and novel National Intruments LabView SAECG software.
Results: Electrical RA conduction delay (RACD) was measured between onset and offset of RA deflection in the RAECG. Interatrial conduction delay (IACD) was measured between onset of RA deflection and onset of far-field LA deflection in the RAECG. Interventricular conduction delay (IVCD) was measured between onset of RV deflection in the RVECG and onset of LV deflection in the LVECG. Telemetric SAECG recording was possible in all ICD-P with a mean of 11.7 ± 4.4 SAECG heart beats, 97.6 ± 33.7 ms QRS duration, 81.5 ± 44.6 ms RACD, 62.8 ± 28.4 ms RV conduction delay, 143.7 ± 71.4 ms right cardiac AV delay, 41.5 ms LA conduction delay, 101.6 ms LV conduction delay, 176.8 ms left cardiac AV delay, 53.6 ms IACD and 93 ms IVCD.
Conclusions: Determination of RA, LA, RV and LV conduction delay, IACD, IVCD, right and left cardiac AV delay by telemetric SAECG recording using LabView SAECG technique may be useful parameters of atrial and ventricular desynchronization to improve P selection for CRT and hemodynamics in cardiac pacing.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established therapy for heart failure patients and improves quality of life in patients with sinus rhythm, reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left bundle branch block and wide QRS duration. Since approximately sixty percent of heart failure patients have a normal QRS duration they do not benefit or respond to the CRT. Cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) releases nonexcitatoy impulses during the absolute refractory period in order to enhance the strength of the left ventricular contraction. The aim of the investigation was to evaluate differences in cardiac index between optimized and nonoptimized CRT and CCM devices versus standard values. Impedance cardiography, a noninvasive method was used to measure cardiac index (CI), a useful parameter which describes the blood volume during one minutes heart pumps related to the body surface. CRT patients indicate an increase of 39.74 percent and CCM patients an improvement of 21.89 percent more cardiac index with an optimized device.
Spectral analysis of signal averaging electrocardiography in atrial and ventricular tachyarrhythmias
(2017)
Background: Targeting complex fractionated atrial electrograms detected by automated algorithms during ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation has produced conflicting outcomes in previous electrophysiological studies. The aim of the investigation was to evaluate atrial and ventricular high frequency fractionated electrical signals with signal averaging technique.
Methods: Signal averaging electrocardiography (ECG) allows high resolution ECG technique to eliminate interference noise signals in the recorded ECG. The algorithm uses automatic ECG trigger function for signal averaged transthoracic, transesophageal and intracardiac ECG signals with novel LabVIEW software (National Instruments, Austin, Texas, USA). For spectral analysis we used fast fourier transformation in combination with spectro-temporal mapping and wavelet transformation for evaluation of detailed information about the frequency and intensity of high frequency atrial and ventricular signals.
Results: Spectral-temporal mapping and wavelet transformation of the signal averaged ECG allowed the evaluation of high frequency fractionated atrial signals in patients with atrial fibrillation and high frequency ventricular signals in patients with ventricular tachycardia. The analysis in the time domain evaluated fractionated atrial signals at the end of the signal averaged P-wave and fractionated ventricular signals at the end of the QRS complex. The analysis in the frequency domain evaluated high frequency fractionated atrial signals during the P-wave and high frequency fractionated ventricular signals during QRS complex. The combination of analysis in the time and frequency domain allowed the evaluation of fractionated signals during atrial and ventricular conduction.
Conclusions: Spectral analysis of signal averaging electrocardiography with novel LabVIEW software can utilized to evaluate atrial and ventricular conduction delays in patients with atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. Complex fractionated atrial electrograms may be useful parameters to evaluate electrical cardiac arrhythmogenic signals in atrial fibrillation ablation.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation is a therapy for patients with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and symptomatic aortic stenosis. The aim of the study was to compare the pre-and post- transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedures to determine the QRS and QT ventricular conduction times as a potential predictor of permanent pacemaker therapy requirement after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. QRS and QT ventricular conduction times were prolonged after transcatheter aortic valve implantation in heart failure patients with permanent dual chamber pacemaker therapy after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. QRS and QT ventricular conduction times may be useful parameters to evaluate the risk of post-procedural ventricular conduction block and permanent pacemaker therapy in transcatheter aortic valve implantation.
In contrast to conventional aortic valve replacement, the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is a new highly specialist alternative to surgical valve replacement for patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis and high operative risk. The procedure was performed in a minimally invasive way and was introduced at the university heart centre, Freiburg – Bad Krozingen in 2008. The results have been getting better and better over the years. The aim of the investigation is the analysis of electrocardiogram conduction time and the electrocardiography changes recorded hours and days after the procedure depending on artificial heart valve models, which may lead to pacemaker implantation, even the analysis of the effectiveness of treatment.
Transcatheter aortiv valve implantation is a new safe strategy treatment for patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis and high operative risk. The aim of the study was to compare the pre-and post- muiscatheter aortiv valve implantation procedures to determine the atrioventricuktr conduction time as a potential predictor of permanent pacemaker therapy requirement after transcatheter aortiv valve implantation. The transcatheter aortiv valve implantation patients were divided into groups without pacemaker and with dual or single chamber pacemEtker with diffent atrioventrieular conduction time disturbance before and after transcatheter aortiv valve implantation. In heart failure, patients without permanent pacemaker therapy after transcatheter aortiv valve implantation, atrioventricular conduction time was prolonged after transcatheter aortiv valve implantation. In patients with permanent dual chamber pacemaker therapy after transcatheter aortiv valve implantation, atrioventricular conduction time was normalised with dual chaniber atrioventrieuku pacing mode. Atrioventricular conduction time may be a useful parameter to evaluate the risk of post-procedural atrioventricular conduction block and permanent pacemaker therapy in transcatheter north, valve implantation patients.
Transthoracic impedance cardiography (ICG) is a non-invasive method for determination of hemodynamic parameters. The basic principle of transthoracic ICG is the measurement of electrical conductivity of the thorax over the time. The aim of the study was the analysis of hemodynamic parameters from healthy individuals and the evaluation of various hemodynamic monitoring devices. Fourteen men (mean age 25 ± 4.59 years) and twelve women (mean age 24 ± 3.5 years) were measured during the cardiovascular engineering laboratory at Offenburg University of Applied Sciences, Offenburg, Germany. The ICG recordings were measured with the devices CardioScreen 1000, CardioScreen 2000 and TensoScreen with the corresponding Software Cardiovascular Lab 2.5 (Medis Medizinische Messtechnik GmbH, Illmenau, Germany). In order to create identical frame conditions, all measurements were recorded in the same position and for the same duration. Various positions were simulated from horizontal lying position to vertical standing position. Altogether, more than 30 hemodynamic parameters were measured.
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is the most commonly used technique of neurostimulation. It involves the stimulation of the spinal cord and is therefore used to treat chronic pain. The existing esophageal catheters are used for temperature monitoring during an electrophysiology study with ablation and transesophageal echocardiography. The aim of the study was to model the spine and new esophageal electrodes for the transesophageal electrical pacing of the spinal cord, and to integrate them in the Offenburg heart rhythm model for the static and dynamic simulation of transesophageal neurostimulation. The modeling and simulation were both performed with the electromagnetic and thermal simulation software CST (Computer Simulation Technology, Darmstadt). Two new esophageal catheters were modelled as well as a thoracic spine based on the dimensions of a human skeleton. The simulation of directed transesophageal neurostimulation is performed using the esophageal balloon catheter with an electric pacing potential of 5 V and a trapezoidal signal. A potential of 4.33 V can be measured directly at the electrode, 3.71 V in the myocardium at a depth of 2 mm, 2.68 V in the thoracic vertebra at a depth of 10 mm, 2.1 V in the thoracic vertebra at a depth of 50 mm and 2.09 V in the spinal cord at a depth of 70 mm. The relation between the voltage delivered to the electrodes and the voltage applied to the spinal cord is linear. Virtual heart rhythm and catheter models as well as the simulation of electrical pacing fields and electrical sensing fields allow the static and dynamic simulation of directed transesophageal electrical pacing of the spinal cord. The 3D simulation of the electrical sensing and pacing fields may be used to optimize transesophageal neurostimulation.
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is the most commonly used technique of neurostimulation. It involves the stimulation of the spinal cord and is therefore used to treat chronic pain. The existing esophageal catheters are used for temperature monitoring during an electrophysiology study with ablation and transesophageal echocardiography. The aim of the study was to model the spine and new esophageal electrodes for the transesophageal electrical pacing of the spinal cord, and to integrate them in the Offenburg heart rhythm model for the static and dynamic simulation of transesophageal neurostimulation. The modeling and simulation were both performed with the electromagnetic and thermal simulation software CST (Computer Simulation Technology, Darmstadt). Two new esophageal catheters were modelled as well as a thoracic spine based on the dimensions of a human skeleton. The simulation of directed transesophageal neurostimulation is performed using the esophageal balloon catheter with an electric pacing potential of 5 V and a trapezoidal signal. A potential of 4.33 V can be measured directly at the electrode, 3.71 V in the myocardium at a depth of 2 mm, 2.68 V in the thoracic vertebra at a depth of 10 mm, 2.1 V in the thoracic vertebra at a depth of 50 mm and 2.09 V in the spinal cord at a depth of 70 mm. The relation between the voltage delivered to the electrodes and the voltage applied to the spinal cord is linear. Virtual heart rhythm and catheter models as well as the simulation of electrical pacing fields and electrical sensing fields allow the static and dynamic simulation of directed transesophageal electrical pacing of the spinal cord. The 3D simulation of the electrical sensing and pacing fields may be used to optimize transesophageal neurostimulation.
Heart rhythm model and simulation of electrophysiological studies and high-frequency ablations
(2017)
Background: Target of the study was to create an accurate anatomic CAD heart rhythm model, and to show its usefulness for cardiac electrophysiological studies and high-frequency ablations. The method is more careful for the patients’ health and has the potential to replace clinical studies due to its high efficiency regarding time and costs.
Methods: All natural heart components of the new HRM were based on MRI records, which guaranteed electronic functionality. The software CST was used for the construction, while CST’s material library assured genuine tissue properties. It should be applicable to simulate different heart rhythm diseases as well as various diffusions of electromagnetic fields, caused by electrophysiological conduction, inside the heart tissue.
Results: It was achievable to simulate sinus rhythm and fourteen different heart rhythm disturbance with different atrial and ventricular conduction delays. The simulated biological excitation of healthy and sick HRM were plotted by simulated electrodes of four polar right atrial catheter, six polar His bundle catheter, ten polar coronary sinus catheter, four polar ablation catheter and eight polar transesophageal left cardiac catheter. Accordingly, six variables were rebuilt and inserted into the anatomic HRM in order to establish heart catheters for ECG monitoring and HF ablation. The HF ablation catheters made it possible to simulate various types of heart rhythm disturbance ablations with different HF ablation catheters and also showed a functional visualisation of tissue heating. The use of tetrahedral meshing HRM made it attainable to store the results faster accompanied by a higher degree of space saving. The smart meshing function reduced unnecessary high resolutions for coarse structures.
Conclusions: The new HRM for EPS simulation may be additional useful for simulation of heart rhythm disturbance, cardiac pacing, HF ablation and for locating and identification of complex fractioned signals within the atrium during atrial fibrillation HF ablation.
Heart rhythm model and simulation of electrophysiological studies and high-frequency ablations
(2017)
Background: The simulation of complex cardiologic structures has the potential to replace clinical studies due to its high efficiency regarding time and costs. Furthermore, the method is more careful for the patients’ health than the conventional ways. The aim of the study was to create an anatomic CAD heart rhythm model (HRM) as accurate as possible, and to show its usefulness for cardiac electrophysiological studies (EPS) and high-frequency (HF) ablations.
Methods: All natural heart components of the new HRM were based on MRI records, which guaranteed electronic functionality. The software CST (Computer Simulation Technology, Darmstadt) was used for the construction, while CST’s material library assured genuine tissue properties. It should be applicable to simulate different heart rhythm diseases as well as various diffusions of electromagnetic fields, caused by electrophysiological conduction, inside the heart tissue.
Results: It was achievable to simulate normal sinus rhythm and fourteen different heart rhythm disturbance with different atrial and ventricular conduction delays. The simulated biological excitation of healthy and sick HRM were plotted by simulated electrodes of four polar right atrial catheter, six polar His bundle catheter, ten polar coronary sinus catheter, four polar ablation catheter and eight polar transesophageal left cardiac catheter (Fig.). Accordingly, six variables were rebuilt and inserted into the anatomic HRM in order to establish heart catheters for ECG monitoring and HF ablation. The HF ablation catheters made it possible to simulate various types of heart rhythm disturbance ablations with different HF ablation catheters and also showed a functional visualisation of tissue heating. The use of tetrahedral meshing HRM made it attainable to store the results faster accompanied by a higher degree of space saving. The smart meshing function reduced unnecessary high resolutions for coarse structures.
Conclusions: The new HRM for EPS simulation may be additional useful for simulation of heart rhythm disturbance, cardiac pacing, HF ablation and for locating and identification of complex fractioned signals within the atrium during atrial fibrillation HF ablation.
Heart rhythm model and simulation of electrophysiological studies and high-frequency ablations
(2017)
Background: The simulation of complex cardiologic structures has the potential to replace clinical studies due to its high efficiency regarding time and costs. Furthermore, the method is more careful for the patients’ health than the conventional ways. The aim of the study was to create an anatomic CAD heart rhythm model (HRM) as accurate as possible, and to show its usefulness for cardiac electrophysiological studies (EPS) and high-frequency (HF) ablations.
Methods: All natural heart components of the new HRM were based on MRI records, which guaranteed electronic functionality. The software CST (Computer Simulation Technology, Darmstadt) was used for the construction, while CST’s material library assured genuine tissue properties. It should be applicable to simulate different heart rhythm diseases as well as various diffusions of electromagnetic fields, caused by electrophysiological conduction, inside the heart tissue.
Results: It was achievable to simulate normal sinus rhythm and fourteen different heart rhythm disturbance with different atrial and ventricular conduction delays. The simulated biological excitation of healthy and sick HRM were plotted by simulated electrodes of four polar right atrial catheter, six polar His bundle catheter, ten polar coronary sinus catheter, four polar ablation catheter and eight polar transesophageal left cardiac catheter (Fig.). Accordingly, six variables were rebuilt and inserted into the anatomic HRM in order to establish heart catheters for ECG monitoring and HF ablation. The HF ablation catheters made it possible to simulate various types of heart rhythm disturbance ablations with different HF ablation catheters and also showed a functional visualisation of tissue heating. The use of tetrahedral meshing HRM made it attainable to store the results faster accompanied by a higher degree of space saving. The smart meshing function reduced unnecessary high resolutions for coarse structures.
Conclusions: The new HRM for EPS simulation may be additional useful for simulation of heart rhythm disturbance, cardiac pacing, HF ablation and for locating and identification of complex fractioned signals within the atrium during atrial fibrillation HF ablation.
Introduction: To simplify AV delay (AVD) optimization in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), we reported that the hemodynamically optimal AVD for VDD and DDD mode CRT pacing can be approximated by individually measuring implant-related interatrial conduction intervals (IACT) in oesophageal electrogram (LAE) and adding about 50ms. The programmer-based St Jude QuickOpt algorithm is utilizing this finding. By automatically measuring IACT in VDD operation, it predicts the sensed AVD by adding either 30ms or 60ms. Paced AVD is strictly 50ms longer than sensed AVD. As consequence of those variations, several studies identified distinct inaccuracies of QuickOpt. Therefore, we aimed to seek for better approaches to automate AVD optimization.
Methods: In a study of 35 heart failure patients (27m, 8f, age: 67±8y) with Insync III Marquis CRT-D systems we recorded telemetric electrograms between left ventricular electrode and superior vena cava shock coil (LVtip/SVC = LVCE) simultaneously with LAE. By LVCE we measured intervals As-Pe in VDD and Ap-Pe in DDD operation between right atrial sense-event (As) or atrial stimulus (Ap), resp., and end of the atrial activity (Pe). As-Pe and Ap-Pe were compared with As-LA an Ap-LA in LAE, respectively.
Results: End of the left atrial activity in LVCE could clearly be recognized in 35/35 patients in VDD and 29/35 patients in DDD operation. We found mean intervals As-LA of 40.2±24.5ms and Ap-LA of 124.3±20.6ms. As-Pe was 94.8±24.1ms and Ap-Pe was 181.1±17.8ms. Analyzing the sums of As-LA + 50ms with duration of As-Pe and Ap-LA + 50ms with duration of Ap-Pe, the differences were 4.7±9.2ms and 4.2±8.6ms, resp., only. Thus, hemodynamically optimal timing of the ventricular stimulus can be triggered by automatically detecting Pe in LVCE.
Conclusion: Based on minimal deviations between LAE and LVCE approach, we proposed companies to utilize the LVCE in order to automate individual AVD optimization in CRT pacing.
Introduction: Patient selection for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) requires quantification of left ventricular conduction delay (LVCD). After implantation of biventricular pacing systems, individual AV delay (AVD) programming is essential to ensure hemodynamic response. To exclude adverse effects, AVD should exceed individual implant-related interatrial conduction times (IACT). As result of a pilot study, we proposed the development of a programmer-based transoesophageal left heart electrogram (LHE) recording to simplify both, LVCD and IACT measurement. This feature was implemented into the Biotronik ICS3000 programmer simultaneously with 3-channel surface ECG.
Methods: A 5F oesophageal electrode was perorally applied in 44 heart failure CRT-D patients (34m, 10f, 65±8 yrs., QRS=162±21ms). In position of maximum left ventricular deflection, oesophageal LVCD was measured between onsets of QRS in surface ECG and oesophageal left ventricular deflection. Then, in position of maximum left atrial deflection (LA), IACT in VDD operation (As-LA) was calculated by difference between programmed AV delay and the measured interval from onset of left atrial deflection to ventricular stimulus in the oesophageal electrogram. IACT in DDD operation (Ap-LA) was measured between atrial stimulus and LA..
Results: LVCD of the CRT patients was characterized by a minimum of 47ms with mean of 69±23ms. As-LA and Ap-LA were found to be 41±23ms and 125±25ms, resp., at mean. In 7 patients (15,9%), IACT measurement in DDD operation uncovered adverse AVD if left in factory settings. In this cases, Ap-LA exceeded the factory AVD. In 6 patients (13,6%), IACT in VDD operation was less than or equal 10ms indicating the need for short AVD.
Conclusion: Response to CRT requires distinct LVCD and AVD optimization. The ICS3000 oesophageal LHE feature can be utilized to measure LVCD in order to justify selection for CRT. IACT measurement simplifies AV delay optimization in patients with CRT systems irrespective of their make and model.
Cardiac contractility modulation (CCM) is a device-based therapy for the treatment of systolic left ventricular chronic heart failure. Unlike other device-based therapies for heart failure, CCM delivers non-excitatory pacing signals to the myocardium. This leads to an extension of the action potential and to an improved contractility of the heart. The modeling and simulation was done with the electromagnetic simulation software CST. Three CCM electrodes were inserted into the Offenburg heart rhythm model and subsequently simulated the electric field propagation in CCM therapy.
In addition, simulations of CCM have been performed with electrodes from other device-based therapies, such as cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) and implantable cardioverter / defibrillator (ICD) therapy. At the same distance to the simulation electrode, the electric field is slightly stronger in CCM therapy than in CCM therapy with additionally implanted CRT or ICD electrodes. In addition, there is a change in the electric field propagation at the electrodes of the CRT and the shock electrode of the ICD.
By simulating several different therapy procedures on the heart, it is possible to check how they affect their behavior during normal operation. CCM heart rhythm model simulation allows the evaluation the individual electrical pacing and sensing field during CCM.
In-vivo and in-vitro comparison of implant-based CRT optimization - What provide new algorithms?
(2011)
Introduction: In cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), individual AV delay (AVD) optimization can effectively increase hemodynamics and reduce non-responder rate. Accurate, automatic and easily comprehensible algorithms for the follow-up are desirable. QuickOpt is the first attempt of a semi-automatic intracardiac electrogram (IEGM) based AVD algorithm. We aimed to compare its accuracy and usefulness by in-vitro and in-vivo studies.
Methods: Using the programmable ARSI-4 four-chamber heart rhythm and IEGM simulator (HKP, Germany), the QuickOpt feature of an Epic HF system (St. Jude, USA) was tested in-vitro by simulated atrial IEGM amplitudes between 0.3 and 3.5mV during both, manual and automatic atrial sensing between 0.2 and 1.0mV. Subsequently, in 21 heart failure patients with implanted biventricular defibrillators, QuickOpt was performed in-vivo. Results of the algorithm for VDD and DDD stimulation were compared with echo AV delay optimization.
Results: In-vitro simulations demonstrated a QuickOpt measuring accuracy of ± 8ms. Depending on atrial IEGM amplitude, the algorithm proposed optimal AVD between 90 and 150ms for VDD and between 140 and 200ms for DDD operation, respectively. In-vivo, QuickOpt difference between individual AVD in DDD and VDD mode was either 50ms (20pts) or 40ms (1pt). QuickOpt and echo AVD differed by 41 ± 25ms (7 – 90ms) in VDD and by 18 ± 24ms (17-50ms) in DDD operation. Individual echo AVD difference between both modes was 73 ± 20ms (30-100ms).
Conclusion: The study demonstrates the value of in-vitro studies. It predicted QuickOpt deficiencies regarding IEGM amplitude dependent AVD proposals constrained to fixed individual differences between DDD and VDD mode. Consequently, in-vivo, the algorithm provided AVD of predominantly longer duration than echo in both modes. Accepting echo individualization as gold standard, QuickOpt should not be used alone to optimize AVD in CRT patients.
Patients with focal ventricular tachycardia are at risk of hemodynamic failure and if no treatment is provided the mortality rate can exceed 30%. Therefore, medical professionals must be adequately trained in the management of these conditions. To achieve the best treatment, the origin of the abnormality should be known, as well as the course of the disease. This study provides an opportunity to visualize various focal ventricular tachycardias using the Offenburg heart rhythm model. Modeling and simulation of focal ventricular tachycardias in the Offenburg heart rhythm model was performed using CST (Computer Simulation Technology) software from Dessault Systèms. A bundle of nerve tissue in different regions in the left and right ventricle was defined as the focus in the already existing heart rhythm model. This ultimately served as the origin of the focal excitation sites. For the simulations, the heart rhythm model was divided into a mesh consisting of 5354516 tetrahedra, which is required to calculate the electric field lines. The simulations in the Offenburg heart rhythm model were able to successfully represent the progression of focal ventricular tachycardia in the heart using measured electrical field lines. The simulation results were realized as an animated sequence of images running in real time at a frame rate of 20 frames per second. By changing the frame rate, these simulations can additionally be produced at different speeds. The Offenburg heart rhythm model allows visualization of focal ventricular arrhythmias using computer simulations.
Patients with focal ventricular tachycardia are at risk of hemodynamic failure and if no treatment is provided the mortality rate can exceed 30%. Therefore, medical professionals must be adequately trained in the management of these conditions. To achieve the best treatment, the origin of the abnormality should be known, as well as the course of the disease. This study provides an opportunity to visualize various focal ventricular tachycardias using the Offenburg cardiac rhythm model.
A disturbed synchronization of the ventricular contraction can cause a highly developed systolic heart failure in affected patients with reduction of the left ventricular ejection fraction, which can often be explained by a diseased left bundle branch block (LBBB). If medication remains unresponsive, the concerned patients will be treated with a cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) system. The aim of this study was to integrate His-bundle pacing into the Offenburg heart rhythm model in order to visualize the electrical pacing field generated by His-Bundle-Pacing. Modelling and electrical field simulation activities were performed with the software CST (Computer Simulation Technology) from Dessault Systèms. CRT with biventricular pacing is to be achieved by an apical right ventricular electrode and an additional left ventricular electrode, which is floated into the coronary vein sinus. The non-responder rate of the CRT therapy is about one third of the CRT patients. His- Bundle-Pacing represents a physiological alternative to conventional cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization. An electrode implanted in the His-bundle emits a stronger electrical pacing field than the electrical pacing field of conventional cardiac pacemakers. The pacing of the Hisbundle was performed by the Medtronic Select Secure 3830 electrode with pacing voltage amplitudes of 3 V, 2 V and 1,5 V in combination with a pacing pulse duration of 1 ms. Compared to conventional pacemaker pacing, His-bundle pacing is capable of bridging LBBB conduction disorders in the left ventricle. The His-bundle pacing electrical field is able to spread via the physiological pathway in the right and left ventricles for CRT with a narrow QRS-complex in the surface ECG.
Background: A disturbed synchronization of the ventricular contraction can cause a highly developed systolic heart failure in affected patients, which can often be explained by a diseased left bundle branch block (LBBB). If medication remains unresponsive, the concerned patients will be treated with a cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) system. The aim of this study was to integrate His bundle pacing into the Offenburg heart rhythm model in order to visualize the electrical pacing field generated by His bundle pacing.
Methods: Modelling and electrical field simulation activities were performed with the software CST (Computer Simulation Technology) from Dessault Systèms. CRT with biventricular pacing is to be achieved by an apical right ventricular electrode and an additional left ventricular electrode, which is floated into the coronary vein sinus. This conventional type of biventricular pacing leads to a reduction of the left ventricular ejection fraction. Furthermore, the non-responder rate of the CRT therapy is about one third of the CRT patients.
Results: His bundle pacing represents a physiological alternative to conventional cardiac pacing and cardiac resynchronization. An electrode implanted in the His bundle emits a stronger electrical pacing field than the electrical pacing field of conventional cardiac pacemakers. The pacing of the His bundle was performed by the Medtronic Select Secure 3830 electrode with pacing voltage amplitudes of 3 V, 2 V and 1.5 V in combination with a pacing pulse duration of 1 ms.
Conclusions: Compared to conventional cardiac pacemaker pacing, His bundle pacing is capable of bridging LBBB conduction disorders in the left ventricle. The His bundle pacing electrical field is able to spread via the physiological pathway in the right and left ventricles for CRT with a narrow QRS-complex in the surface ECG.
Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) is a promising treatment option in patients with chronic heart failure. In this article the roles of semi-invasive esophageal left-heart electrocardiography and functional cardiac nuclear imaging in the field of CRT are highlighted, as the combination of both could be a favourable diagnostic approach in special cardiac situations. Also original esophageal left heart electrogram data of exemplary CRT patients is presented.
Background: Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using cryoballoon catheters are a recognized method for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). This method offers shorter treatment duration in contrast to the classical therapy with high-frequency (HF) ablation.
Purpose: The aim of this study was to integrate different cryoballoon catheters and a HF catheter into a heart rhythm model and to compare them by means of static and dynamic electromagnetic and thermal simulation in use under AF.
Methods: The cryoballoon catheters from Medtronic and the HF ablation catheter from Osypka were modelled virtually with the aid of manufacturer specifications and the CST (Computer Simulation Technology, Darmstadt) simulation program. The cryoballoon catheter was located in the lower left pulmonary vein of the virtual heart rhythm model for the realization of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) by cryoenergy. The simulated temperature at the balloon surface was -50°C during the simulation.
Results: During a simulated 20 second application of a cryoballoon catheter at -50°C, a temperature of -24°C was measured at a depth of 0.5 mm in the myocardium. At a depth of 1 mm the temperature was -3°C, at 2 mm depth 18°C and at 3 mm depth 29°C. Under the 15 second application of a RF catheter with a 8 mm electrode and a power of 5 W at 420 kHz, the temperature at the tip of the electrode was 110°C. At a depth of 0.5 mm in the myocardium, the temperature was 75°C, at a depth of 1 mm 58°C, at 2 mm depth 45°C and at 3 mm depth 38°C.
Conclusions: The simulation of temperature profiles during the virtual application of several catheter models in the heart rhythm model allows the static and dynamic simulation of PVI by cryoballoon ablation and RF ablation. The three-dimensional simulation can be used to improve ablation applications by creating a model in personalized cardiac rhythm therapy from MRI or CT data of a heart and finding a favourable position for ablation of AF.
Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is a common therapy in atrial fibrillation (AF). The cryoballoon was invented to isolate the pulmonary vein in one step and in a shorter time than a point-by-point radiofrequency (RF) ablation. The aim of the study was to model two cryoballoon catheters, one RF catheter and to integrate them into a heart rhythm model for the static and dynamic simulation of PVI by cryoablation and RF ablation in AF. The modeling and simulation were carried out using the electromagnetic and thermal simulation software CST (CST, Darmstadt). Two cryoballons and one RF ablation catheter were modeled based on the technical manuals of the manufacturers Medtronic and Osypka. The PVI especially the isolation of the left inferior pulmonary vein using a cryoballoon catheter was performed with a -50 °C heatsource and an exponential signal. The temperature at the balloon surface was -50 °C after 20 s ablation time, -24 °C from the balloon 0,5 mm in the myocardium, at a distance of 1 mm -3 °C, at 2 mm 18 °C and at a distance of 3mm 29 °C. PVI with RF energy was simulated with an applied power of 5 W at 420 kHz at the distal 8 mm ablation electrode. The temperature at the tip electrode was 110 °C after 15 s ablation time, 75 °C from the balloon at 0,5 mm in the myocardium, at a distance of 1 mm 58 °C, at 2 mm 45 °C and at a distance of 3 mm 38 °C. Virtual heart rhythm and catheter models as well as the simulation of the temperature allow the simulation of PVI in AF by cryo ablation and RF ablation. The 3D simulation of the temperature profile may be used to optimize RF and cryo ablation.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy with biventricular pacing is an established therapy for heart failure patients with electrical left ventricular desynchronization. The aim of this study was to evaluate left atrial conduction delay, intra left atrial conduction delay, left ventricular conduction delay and intra left ventricular conduction delay in heart failure patients using novel signal averaging transesophageal left heart ECG software.
Methods: 8 heart failure patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), age 68 ± 9 years, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class 2.9 ± 0.2, 24.8 ± 6.7 % left ventricular ejection fraction, 188.8 ± 15.5 ms QRS duration and 8 heart failure patients with ischaemic cardiomyopathy (ICM), age 67 ± 8 years, NYHA class 2.9 ± 0.3, 32.5 ± 7.4 % left ventricular ejection fraction and 167.6 ± 19.4 ms QRS duration were analysed with transesophageal and transthoracic ECG by Bard LabDuo EP system and novel National Intruments LabView signal averaging ECG software.
Results: The electrical left atrial conduction delay was 71.3 ± 17.6 ms in ICM versus 72.3 ± 12.4 ms in DCM, intra left atrial conduction delay 66.8 ± 8.6 ms in ICM versus 63.4 ± 10.9 ms in DCM and left cardiac AV delay 180.5 ± 32.6 ms in ICM versus 152.4 ± 30.4 ms in DCM. The electrical left ventricular conduction delay was 40.9 ± 7.5 ms in ICM versus 42.6 ± 17 ms in DCM and intra left ventricular conduction delay 105.6 ± 19.3 ms in ICM versus 128.3 ± 24.1 ms in DCM.
Conclusions: Left heart signal averaging ECG can be utilized to analyse left atrial conduction delay, intra left atrial conduction delay, left ventricular conduction delay and intra left ventricular conduction delay to improve patient selection for cardiac resynchronization therapy.
Disturbances of the cardiac conduction system causing reentry mechanisms above the atrioventricular (AV) node are induced by at least one accessory pathway with different conducting properties and refractory periods. This work aims to further develop the already existing and continuously expanding Offenburg heart rhythm model to visualise the most common supraventricular reentry tachycardias to provide a better understanding of the cause of the respective reentry mechanism.
New frontiers of supraventricular tachycardia and atrial flutter evaluation and catheter ablation
(2012)
Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) has revolutionized treatment for tachyarrhythmias and has become first-line therapy for some tachycardias. Although developed in the 1980s and widely applied in the 1990s, the technique is still in development. Transesophageal atrial pacing (TAP) can used for initiation and termination of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).
Methods: The paroxysmal SVT include a wide spectrum of disorders including, in descending order of frequency, atrial flutter, atrioventricular (AV) nodal reentry, Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, and atrial tachycardia. While not life-threatening in most cases, they may cause important symptoms, such as palpitations, chest discomfort, breathlessness, anxiety, and syncope, which significantly impair quality of life. Medical therapy has variable efficacy, and most patients are not rendered free of symptoms. Research over the past several decades has revealed fundamental mechanisms involved in the initiation and maintenance of all of these arrhythmias. Knowledge of mechanisms has in turn led to highly effective surgical and catheter-based treatments. The supraventricular arrhythmias and their treatment are described in this report. SVT initiation was analysed with programmed TAP in 49 patients with palpitations (age 47 ± 17 years, 24 females, 25 males).
Results: In comparison to antiarrhythmic drug therapy the radiofrequency catheter ablation in patients suffering from atrial flutter, atrioventricular nodal reentry, atrioventricular reentry and atrial tachycardia is the better choice in most cases. TAP SVT initiation was possible in 23 patients before RFCA. Atrial cycle length of SVT was 320 ± 59 ms. We initiated AV nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT, n=15), atrial tachycardia (AT, n=6) and AV reentrant tachycardia with Kent pathway conduction (AVRT, n=2) before RFCA.
Conclusions: Radiofrequency catheter ablation is a successful and safe method to cure most patients with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias. TAP allowed initiation and termination of SVT especially in outpatients.
ECG simulators, available on the market, imitate the electric activity of the heart in a simplified manner. Thus, they are suitable for education purposes but not really for testing algorithms to recognize complex arrhythmias needed for pacemakers and implantable defibrillators. Especially certain discrimination between various morphologies of atrial and ventricular fibrillation needs simulators providing native electrograms of different patients’ heart rhythm events. This explains the necessity to develop an ECG simulator providing high-resolution native intracardiac and surface electrograms of in-vivo rhythm events. In this paper we demonstrate an approach for an ECG simulator based on a consumer multichannel soundcard and a corresponding software application for a laptop computer. This Live-ECG Simulator is able to handle invasive electrogram recordings from electrophysiological studies and send the data to a modified external soundcard for subsequent digital to analog conversion. The hardware is completed with an electronic circuit providing level adjustment to adapt the output amplitude to the input conditions of several cardiac implants.
The electrical field (E-field) of the biventricular (BV) stimulation is important for the success of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with cardiac insufficiency and widened QRS complex.
The aim of the study was to model different pacing and ablation electrodes and to integrate them into a heart model for the static and dynamic simulation of BV stimulation and HF ablation in atrial fibrillation (AF).
The modeling and simulation was carried out using the electromagnetic simulation software CST. Five multipolar left ventricular (LV) electrodes, four bipolar right atrial (RA) electrodes, two right ventricular (RV) electrodes and one HF ablation catheter were modelled. A selection were integrated into the heart rhythm model (Schalk, Offenburg) for the electrical field simulation. The simulation of an AV node ablation at CRT was performed with RA, RV and LV electrodes and integrated ablation catheter with an 8 mm gold tip.
The BV stimulation were performed simultaneously at amplitude of 3 V at the LV electrode and 1 V at the RV electrode with a pulse width of 0.5 ms each. The far-field potential at the RA electrode tip was 32.86 mV and 185.97 mV at a distance of 1 mm from the RA electrode tip. AV node ablation was simulated with an applied power of 5 W at 420 kHz at the distal ablation electrode. The temperature at the catheter tip was 103.87 °C after 5 s ablation time and 37.61 °C at a distance of 2 mm inside the myocardium. After 15 s, the temperature was 118.42 °C and 42.13 °C.
Virtual heart and electrode models as well as the simulations of electrical fields and temperature profiles allow the static and dynamic simulation of atrial synchronous BV stimulation and HF ablation at AF and could be used to optimize the CRT and AF ablation.
Background: The electrical field (E-field) of the biventricular (BV) stimulation is essential for the success of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients with cardiac insufficiency and widened QRS complex. 3D modeling allows the simulation of CRT and high frequency (HF) ablation.
Purpose: The aim of the study was to model different pacing and ablation electrodes and to integrate them into a heart model for the static and dynamic simulation of BV stimulation and HF ablation in atrial fibrillation (AF).
Methods: The modeling and simulation was carried out using the electromagnetic simulation software. Five multipolar left ventricular (LV) electrodes, one epicardial LV electrode, four bipolar right atrial (RA) electrodes, two right ventricular (RV) electrodes and one HF ablation catheter were modeled. Different models of electrodes were integrated into a heart rhythm model for the electrical field simulation (fig.1). The simulation of an AV node ablation at CRT was performed with RA, RV and LV electrodes and integrated ablation catheter with an 8 mm gold tip.
Results: The RV and LV stimulation were performed simultaneously at amplitude of 3 V at the LV electrode and 1 V at the RV electrode, each with a pulse width of 0.5 ms. The far-field potentials generated by the BV stimulations were perceived by the RA electrode. The far-field potential at the RA electrode tip was 32.86 mV. A far-field potential of 185.97 mV resulted at a distance of 1 mm from the RA electrode tip. AV node ablation was simulated with an applied power of 5 W at 420 kHz at the distal 8 mm ablation electrode. The temperature at the catheter tip was 103.87 ° C after 5 s ablation time, 44.17 ° C from the catheter tip in the myocardium and 37.61 ° C at a distance of 2 mm. After 10 s, the temperature at the three measuring points described above was 107.33 ° C, 50.87 ° C, 40.05 ° C and after 15 seconds 118.42 ° C, 55.75 ° C and 42.13 ° C.
Conclusions: Virtual heart and electrode models as well as the simulations of electrical fields and temperature profiles allow the static and dynamic simulation of atrial synchronous BV stimulation and HF ablation at AF. The 3D simulation of the electrical field and temperature profile may be used to optimize the CRT and AF ablation.
AV delay (AVD) optimization is mandatory in cardiac resynchronization (CRT) for heart failure. Several time consuming methods exist. We initialized development of left-atrial electrogram (LAE) feature for Biotronik ICS3000 programmer. It can be utilized to approximate optimal AV delay in CRT patients with pacing systems irrespective of make and model. Using this feature, we studied the share of interatrial conduction intervals (IACT) on individual echo AVD in 45 CRT patients (34m, 11f, mean age 69±6yrs.). The percentage of IACT on optimal echo AVD resulted in44.5±22.1% for VDD and 70.7±10.9% for DDD operation. In all patients, optimal echo AVDs exceeded the individual IACT by a duration of 52.5±33.3ms (p<0.001), at mean. Therefore, if AV delay optimization is not possible or not practicable in CRT patients, AVD should be approximated by individually measuring IACT and adding about 50ms.
AV delay (AVD) optimization can improve hemodynamics and avoid nonresponding to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). AVD can be approximated by the sum of the individual implant-related interatrial conduction interval and a mean electromechanical interval of about 50ms. We searched for methods to facilitate automatic, implant-based AV delay optimization. In 25 patients (19m, 6f, age: 65±8yrs.) with Medtronic Insync III Marquis CRT-D series systems and left ventricular electrode at lateral or posterolateral wall, we determined interatrial conduction intervals by telemetric left ventricular tip versus superior vena cava coil electrogram (LVCE). Compared with esophageal measurements, the duration of optimal AV delay by LVCE showed good correlation (k=0.98, p=0.01) with a difference of 1.5±4.9ms, only. Therefore, LVCE is feasible to determine interatrial conduction intervals in order to automate AV delay optimization in CRT-D pacing promising increased accuracy compared to other algorithms.
Using guideline parameters for indication of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT), only about two thirds of the patients improve clinically. Unfortunately both, surface ECG and echo are uncertain to predict CRT response. To better characterize cardiac desynchronization in heart failure, interventricular (IVCD) and intra-leftventricular conduction delays (ILVCD) were measured by esophageal left ventricular electrogram (LVE). Recordings in 43 CRT patients (34m, 9f, age: 64.7 ± 9.5yrs) evidenced only weak correlation between IVCD and QRS of 0.53 and between ILVCD and QRS of 0.33. This demonstrated that QRS duration is not a reliable indicator of desynchronization. Therefore, the study resulted into development of LVE feature for a programmer with implant support device. It can be used interoperatively to guide the left ventricular electrode location in order to increase responder rate in CRT.
Responder-rate in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) of patients in sinus rhythm (SR) or atrial fibrillation (AF) mainly depends on accurat selection, optimal position of the left ventricular electrode and individualization of hemodynamical parameters of the implanted biventricular pacing system during follow-up. High resolution esophageal left heart electrocardiography offers a quick and semi-invasive approach to the electrical activity of left atrium and left ventricle. It was used in 62 heart failure patients in sinus rhythm and 11 in atrial fibrillation after implantation of CRT systems to compare the semi-invasive interventricular conduction delay (IVCDE) with QRS width. In all of the patients, guideline decision for CRT was linked with IVCDE of about 40ms and up. From logical point of view, IVCDE provides the minimal target interval for the left ventricular electrode placement in order to exclude non-responders. Esophageal measurement of interatrial conduction intervals in VDD and DDD pacing was utilized to individualize the AV delay and to exclude adverse hemodynamic effects.
Significance of new electrocardiographic parameters to improve cardiac resynchronization therapy
(2011)
Introduction: Oesophageal left heart electrogram (LHE) is a valuable tool providing electrocardiographic parameters for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). It can be utilized to measure left ventricular (LVCD) and intra-leftventricular conduction delays (ILVCD) in heart failure patients to justify implantation of CRT systems. In the follow-up, LHE enables measurement of implant-related interatrial conduction times (IACT) which are the key intervals defining the hemodynamically optimal AV delay (AVD).
Methods: By TOSlim oesophageal electrode and Rostockfilter (Osypka AG, Rheinfelden, Germany), LHE was recorded in 39 heart failure patients (10f, 29m, 65±8yrs., QRS=163±21ms) after implantation of CRT systems according to guidelines. In position of maximal left ventricular deflection, LVCD and ILVCD were measured and compared with QRS width. In position of maximal left atrial deflection (LA), IACT was determined in VDD and DDD operation as interval As-LA and Ap-LA between atrial sense event (As) or stimulus (Ap), resp., and onset of LA. AVD was individualized using SAV =As-LA + 50ms for VDD and PAV=Ap-LA + 50ms for DDD operation.
Results: The CRT patients were characterized by minimal transoesophageal LVCD of 40ms but 73±20ms, at mean, ILVCD of 90±24ms and QRS/LVCD ratio of 2.4±0.6. The measured As-LA of 39±24ms and Ap-LA of 124±26ms resulted into SAV of 89±24ms and PAV of 174±26ms. In case of empirical AVD programming using 120ms for SAV and 180ms for PAV, the LHE revealed inverse sequences of LA and Vp in 4 patients (10%) during VDD and 13 patients (33%) in DDD pacing. In these patients, Vp preceded LA as IACT exceeded the programmed AVD.
Conclusion: Guideline indication of CRT systems is associated with LVCD of 40ms or more. Therefore, individual LVCD offers the minimal target interval that should be reached during left ventricular electrode placement to increase responder rate. Postoperatively, AV delay optimization respecting implant-related IACTs excludes adverse hemodynamic effects.
Electrical velocimetry to optimize VV delay in biventricular VVIR and DDD pacing for heart failure
(2011)
Introduction: VV delay (VVD) is the only parameter to hemodynamically optimize cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Electrical velocimetry (EV) has been established to monitor thoracic electrical conductivity and to calculate hemodynamic surrogate parameters. We compared the response of this method to hemodynamic parameter changes between CRT patients with sinus rhythm (SR) and patients with AF.
Methods: VVD was individualized in 17 CRT patients in SR (12m, 5f, 67.0±7.2yrs.) after echo AV delay optimization and in 11 CRT patients in AF (10m, 1f, 69.8±9.6yrs.) using the Aesculon Cardiovascular Monitor (Osypka Medical, Berlin, Germany). Serial 30s EV recordings were accomplished, decreasing the VVD stepwise by 10ms from +60ms to -60ms between right and left ventricular stimulus. Optimal VVD was determined by the maximum of at least two of the three averaged parameters stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO) and cardiac index (CI). The response of SV, CO and CI was tested comparing their values in optimal VVD and suboptimal VVD. Suboptimal VVD was defined by optimal VVD±20ms.
Results: In all 28 patients in SR and AF, EV recordings resulted in optimal VVD. Between suboptimal and optimal mean VVD of 18.6±30.8ms between left and right ventricular stimulus, SV increased by 7.2±6.8%, CO by 7.8±7.2% and CI by 10.0±13.3% (all p<0.02). In the SR group with VVD of 18.8± 29.6ms, SV increased by 4.6±2.9%, CO by 5.0±2.9% and CI by 4.9±2.9% (all p<0.02). In the AF group with VVD of 18.2±4.0ms, SV increased by 10.4±8.9%, CO by 11.3±9.5% and CI by 16.4±18.2% (all p<0.02). Significant differences were not found between optimal VVD in SR and AF patients.
Conclusion: EV is a feasible serial method to individualize VVD in DDD and VVIR pacing for heart failure. Its response to hemodynamic changes demonstrates the value of EV for VVD fine-tuning.
Semi-invasive electromechanical target interval to guide left ventricular electrode placement
(2011)
Targeting complex fractionated atrial electrocardiograms by automated algorithms during ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation has produced conflicting outcomes in previous electrophysiological studies and catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. The aim of the investigation was to evaluate atrial and ventricular high frequency fractionated electrical signals with signal averaging technique.
Methods: Signal averaging electrocardigraphy allows high resolution ECG technique to eliminate interference noise signals in the recorded ECG. The algorithm use automatic ECG trigger function for signal averaged transthoracic, transesophageal and intra-cardiac ECG signals with novel LabVIEW software.
Results: The analysis in the time domain evaluated fractionated atrial signals at the end of the signal averaged P-wave and fractionated ventricular signals at the end of the QRS complex. We evaluated atrial flutter in the time domain with two-to-one atrioventricular conduction, 212.0 ± 4.1 ms atrial cycle length, 426.0 ± 8.2 ms ventricular cycle length, 58.2 ± 1.8 ms P-wave duration, 119.6 ± 6.4 ms PQ duration, 103.0 ± 2.4 ms QRS duration and 296.4 ± 6.8 ms QT duration. The analysis in the frequency domain evaluated high frequency fractionated atrial signals during the P-wave and high frequency fractionated ventricular signals during QRS complex.
Conclusions: Spectral analysis of signal averaging electrocardiography with novel LabVIEW software can be utilized to evaluate atrial and ventricular conduction delays in patients with atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. Complex fractionated atrial and ventricular electrocardiograms may be useful parameters to evaluate electrical cardiac bradycardia and tachycardia signals in atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia ablation.
Oesophageal Electrode Probe and Device for Cardiological Treatment and/or Diagnosis (US20200261024)
(2020)
An oesophageal electrode probe for bioimpedance measurement and/or for neurostimulation is provided; a device for transoesophageal cardiological treatment and/or cardiological diagnosis is also provided; a method for the open-loop or closed-loop control of a cardiological catheter ablation device and/or a cardiological, circulatory and/or respiratory support device is also provided. The oesophageal electrode probe comprises a bioimpedance measuring device for measuring the bioimpedance of at least one part of tissue surrounding the oesophageal electrode probe. The bioimpedance device comprises at least one first and one second electrode. The at least one first electrode is arranged on a side of the oesophageal electrode probe facing towards the heart. The at least one second electrode is arranged on a side of the oesophageal electrode probe facing away from the heart. The device comprises the oesophageal electrode probe and a control and/or evaluation device.
Oesophageal Electrode Probe and Device for Cardiological Treatment and/or Diagnosis (EP3706626A1)
(2020)
The invention relates to an oesophageal electrode probe (10) for bioimpedance measurement and/or for neurostimulation; a device (100) for transoesophageal cardiological treatment and/or cardiological diagnosis; and a method for the open-loop or closed-loop control of a cardiac catheter ablation device and/or a cardiac, circulatory and/or respiratory support device. The oesophageal electrode probe comprises a bioimpedance measuring device for measuring the bioimpedance of at least one part of the tissue surrounding the oesophageal electrode probe. The bioimpedance device comprises at least one first and one second electrode, wherein the at least one first electrode (12A) is arranged on a side (14) of the oesophageal electrode probe facing towards the heart and the at least one second electrode (12B) is arranged on a side (16) of the oesophageal electrode probe facing away from the heart. The device (100) comprises the oesophageal electrode probe (10) and a control and/or evaluation device (30), which is configured for receiving a first bioimpedance measurement signal from the at least one first electrode (12A) and a second bioimpedance measurement signal from the at least one second electrode (12B), and comparing same, and generating a control signal on the basis of the comparison. The control signal can be a signal for the open-loop or closed-loop control of a cardiac catheter ablation device and/or a cardiac, circulatory and/or respiratory support device.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established biventricular pacing therapy in heart failure patients with left bundle branch block and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, but not all patients improved clinically as CRT responder. Purpose of the study was to evaluate electrical left atrial conduction delay (LACD) with focused transesophageal electrocardiography in CRT responder and CRT non-responder.
Methods: Twenty heart failure patients (age 66.6±8.2 years; 2 females, 18 males) with New York Heart Association functional class 3.0±0.3 and 174.2±40.2ms QRS duration were analysed using posterior left atrial transesophageal electrocardiography with hemispherical electrodes. Electrical LACD was measured between onset and offset of transesophageal left atrial signal before implantation of CRT devices.
Results: Electrical LACD could be evaluated by bipolar transesophageal left atrial electrocardiography using TO Osypka electrode in all heart failure patients with negative correlation between 54.7±18.1ms LACD and 24.9±6.4% left ventricular ejection fraction (r=-0.65, P=0.002). There were 16 CRT responders with reduction of New York Heart Association functional class from 3.0±0.29 to 2.1±0.2 (r=0.522, P=0.038) during 9.41±10.96 month biventricular pacing and negative correlation between 49.6±14.2ms LACD and 26.0±6.2% left ventricular ejection fraction (r=-0.533, P=0.034). There were 4 CRT non-responders with no reduction of New York Heart Association functional class from 3.0±0.4 to 2.8±0.5 (r=0.816, P=0.184) during with 13.88±16.39 month biventricular pacing and no correlation between 75.25±19.17ms LACD and 20.75±6.4% left ventricular ejection fraction (r=-0.831, P=0.169).
Conclusions: Focused transesophageal left atrial electrocardiography can be utilized to analyse electrical LACD in heart failure patients. LACD correlated negative with left ventricular ejection fraction in CRT responders. LACD may be a useful parameter to evaluate electrical left atrial desynchronization in heart failure patients.
Cardiac resynchronization therapy is an established therapy for heart failure patients. The aim of the study was to evaluate electrical left cardiac atrioventricular delay and interventricular desynchronization in sinus rhythm cardiac resynchronization therapy responder and non-responder. Cardiac electrical desynchronization were measured by surface ECG and focused transesophageal bipolar left atrial and left ventricular ECG before implantation of cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators. Preoperative electrical cardiac desynchronization was 195.7 ± 46.7 ms left cardiac atrioventricular delay and 74.8 ± 24.5 ms interventricular delay in cardiac resynchronization therapy responder. Cardiac resynchronization therapy responder New York Heart Association class improved during long term biventricular pacing. Transesophageal left cardiac atrioventricular delay and interventricular delay may be additional useful parameters to improve patient selection for cardiac resynchronization therapy.
Background: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is an established therapy for heart failure (HF) patients (P) with reduced left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction and electrical interventricular desynchronization, but not all P improved clinically. The aim of the study was to evaluate electrical interventricular delay (IVD) to LV delay (LVD) ratio in atrial fibrillation (AF) CRT responder (R) and non-responder (NR).
Methods: AF P (n = 18, age 60.6 ± 11.4 years, 1 female, 17 males) with HF New York Heart Association (NYHA) class 3.0 ± 0.2, 25.3 ± 5.9 % LV ejection fraction and 157.8 ± 24.4 ms QRS duration (QRSD) were measured by surface ECG and focused transesophageal bipolar LV ECG before implantation of CRT pacemaker (n = 2) or CRT defibrillator (n = 16). IVD was measured between onset of QRS in the surface ECG and onset of LV signal in the LV ECG. LVD was measured between onset and offset of LV signal in the LV ECG.
Results: Electrical ventricular desynchronization in AF CRT P were 61.9 ± 26.9ms IVD, 80.6 ± 24.3ms LVD, 0.85 ± 0.41 IVD-LVD-ratio (Figure), 3.12 ± 1.89 QRSD-IVD-ratio and 2.07 ± 0.47 QRSD-LVD-ratio. There were 72.2 % AF CRT R (n = 13) with 64.2 ± 24.6ms IVD and 77.8 ± 21.6ms LVD with Pearson correlation to 0.89 ± 0.39 IVD-LVD-ratio (r = 0.87, P < 0.01; r = -0.69, P < 0.01), 2.82 ± 1.32 QRSD-IVD-ratio (r = -0.76, P < 0.01; r = 0.67, P = 0.011) and 2.13 ± 0.46 QRSD-LVD-ratio (r = 0.57, P = 0.041; r = -0.85, P < 0.01). There were 27.8% AF CRT NR (n = 5) with 56.0 ± 34.5ms IVD and 87.8 ± 31.9ms LVD without correlation to 0.74 ± 0.48 IVD-LVD-ratio, 3.88 ± 2.98 QRSD-IVD-ratio and 1.90 ± 0.48 QRSD-LVD-ratio. During 15.3 ± 13.1 month CRT follow-up, the AF CRT R NYHA class improved from 3.0 ± 0.2 to 2.2 ± 0.3 (P < 0.001). During 18.8 ± 20.7 month CRT follow-up, the AF CRT NR NYHA class not improved from 3 to 3.3 ± 0.97.
Introduction: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) with left ventricular (LV) pacing is an established therapy for heart failure (HF) patients (P) with ventricular desynchronisation and reduced LV ejection fraction (EF). The aim of this study was to test the utilization of the transesophageal approach to measure arterial pulse pressure (PP) during LV pacing and electrical interventricular conduction delay (IVCD), to better select patients for CRT.
Methods: 32 HF patients (age 64 ± 10 years; 5 females, 27 males) with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class 2.8 ± 0.6, 27 ± 11 % LV EF and 155 ± 35 ms QRS duration were analysed with semi-invasive left cardiac pacing and electrocardiography. Esophageal TO8 Osypka catheter of 10.5 F diameter was perorally applied to the esophagus and placed in the position of maximum left atrial (LA) deflection and maximum LV deflection to measure PP with VAT or D00 pacing modes.
Results: Temporary transesophageal LV pacing was possible with VAT mode (n=16) and D00 mode (n=16) in all patients. In 15 Δ-PP-responders, PP was higher during LV pacing on than LV pacing off (78.3 ± 26.6 versus 65.9 ± 23.7 mmHg, P < 0.001) and NYHA class improved from 3.1 ± 0.35 to 2.1 ± 0.35 (P < 0.001) during 29 ± 26 month biventricular (BV) pacing follow-up (6 Medtronic and 9 Boston BV pacing devices). In 17 Δ-PP-non-responders, PP was not higher during LV pacing on than LV pacing off (61.5 ± 23.9 versus 60.9 ± 23.5 mmHg, P = 0.066). IVCD was significant longer in Δ-PP-responders than in Δ-PP-non-responders (87 ± 33 ms versus 37± 29 ms, P < 0.001).
Conclusion: Semi-invasive transesophageale LA and LV pacing with D00 and VAT mode and LV electrogram recording may be useful techniques to predict CRT improvement.
Introduction: Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) with atrioventricular (AV) and interventricular (VV) optimized biventricular pacing (BV) is an established therapy for heart failure (HF) patients. The aim of the study was to compare AV and VV delay optimization with cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), contractility index (IC) and acceleration index (ACI) impedance cardiographic (ICG) methods in CRT.
Methods: 15 HF patients (age 66 ± 10 years; 2 females, 13 males) in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class 3.1 ± 0.4, left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction 21.3 ± 7.8 % and QRS duration 176.1 ± 31.7 ms underwent AV and VV delay optimization with CO, CI, IC and ACI (Cardioscreen ®, Medis GmbH, Ilmenau, Germany) at different AV and VV delay BV pacing settings versus right ventricular (RV) pacing one day after implantation of a CRT device.
Results: Optimal AV delay after atrial sensing was 108.6 ± 20.3 ms (n=14) and optimal AV delay after atrial pacing 190 ± 14.1 ms (n=2) with AV delay range from 80 ms to 200 ms. Optimal VV delay was -12.3 ± 25.9 ms left ventricular before RV pacing. RV versus BV pacing mode resulted in improvement of CO from 3.4 ± 1.2 l/min to 4.4 ± 1.4 l/min (p<0.001), CI from 1.8 ± 0.64 l/min/m² to 2.4 ± 0.78 l/min/m² (p<0.001), IC from 0.028 ± 0.011 1/s to 0.036 ± 0.013 1/s (p<0.001) and ACI from 0.667 ± 0.227 1/s² to 0.834 ± 0.282 1/s² (p<0.002). During 34 ± 26 month BV pacing, the NYHA class improved from 3.1 ± 0.4 to 2.1 ± 0.4 (p<0.001).
Conclusion: AV and VV delay optimized BV pacing acutely improve hemodynamic parameters of transthoracic ICG and their NYHA class during long-term follow-up. ICG may be a simple and useful technique to optimize AV and VV delay in CRT.
Introduction: Cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) with atrioventricular (AV) and interventricular (VV) optimized biventricular pacing (BV) is an established therapy for heart failure (HF) patients with electrical interventricular conduction delay (IVCD). The aim of the study was to compare AV and VV delay optimization with cardiac output (CO) and acceleration index (ACI) impedance cardiographic (ICG) methods.
Methods: HF patients with IVCD 86.8 ± 33 ms (n=15, age 66 ± 10 years; 2 females, 13 males), New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class 3.1 ± 0.4, left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction 21.3 ± 7.8 % and QRS duration 176.1 ± 31.7 ms underwent AV and VV delay optimization with CO and ACI methods (Cardioscreen, Medis GmbH, Ilmenau, Germany). After evaluation of optimal AV delay, we evaluated optimal VV delay during simultaneous LV and right ventricular (RV) pacing (LV=RV), LV before RV pacing (LV-RV) and RV before LV pacing (RV-LV).
Results: Optimal VV delay was -12.3 ± 25.9 ms LV-RV pacing with VV delay range from -80 ms LV-RV pacing to +20 ms RV-LV pacing and RV=LV pacing. Optimal AV delay after atrial sensing was 108.6 ± 20.3 ms (n=14) and optimal AV delay after atrial pacing 190 ± 14.1 ms (n=2) with AV delay range from 80 ms to 200 ms. RV versus BV pacing mode resulted in improvement of CO from 3.4 ± 1.2 l/min to 4.4 ± 1.4 l/min (p<0.001) and ACI from 0.667 ± 0.227 1/s² to 0.834 ± 0.282 1/s² (p<0.002). During 34 ± 26 month BV pacing, the NYHA class improved from 3.1 ± 0.4 to 2.1 ± 0.4 (p<0.001).
Conclusion: AV and VV delay optimized BV pacing acutely improve ICG CO and ACI and their NYHA class during long-term follow-up. ICG may be a simple and useful technique to optimize AV and VV delay in CRT.