Feature Papers in Imaging

A special issue of Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease (ISSN 2308-3425). This special issue belongs to the section "Imaging".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 January 2025 | Viewed by 12837

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333 ZA Leiden, The Netherland
Interests: mitral valve prolapse; mitral regurgitation; aortic stenosis; cardiovascular imaging
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Cardiovascular imaging plays a crucial role at every step of the management of patients with cardiovascular disease, from diagnosis and risk stratification to therapeutic decision making and guidance. The Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease has therefore launched a Special Issue in recognition of its 10th anniversary, where original papers or reviews focusing on the additional value of standard or advanced imaging modalities in the management of the whole spectrum of cardiovascular disease are welcome. Particular attention will be given to the potential role of cardiovascular imaging in improving personalized medicine with patient-specific diagnosis and prognosis, and to the most novel imaging techniques and applications.

Dr. Nina Ajmone Marsan
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • echocardiography
  • cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
  • cardiac computed tomography
  • nuclear cardiology
  • cardiovascular disease

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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25 pages, 3849 KiB  
Article
A Vector Theory of Assessing Clinical Trials: An Application to Bioequivalence
by Vangelis D. Karalis
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(7), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11070185 - 21 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 976
Abstract
A novel idea is introduced regarding the statistical comparisons of endpoints in clinical trials. Currently, the (dis)similarity of measured endpoints is not assessed. Instead, statistical analysis is directly applied, which can lead to multiplicity issues, reduced statistical power, and the recruitment of more [...] Read more.
A novel idea is introduced regarding the statistical comparisons of endpoints in clinical trials. Currently, the (dis)similarity of measured endpoints is not assessed. Instead, statistical analysis is directly applied, which can lead to multiplicity issues, reduced statistical power, and the recruitment of more subjects. The Vector-Based Comparison (VBC) approach originates from vector algebra and considers clinical endpoints as “vectors”. In the general case of N clinical endpoints, a Cartesian coordinate system is defined, and the most important primary endpoint (E1) is set. Following an explicitly defined procedure, the pairwise relationships of the remaining N-1 endpoints with E1 are estimated, and the N-1 endpoints are decomposed into axes perpendicular to E1. The angle between vectors provides insight into the level of dependency between variables. Vectors that are perpendicular to each other are considered independent, and only these are used in the statistical analysis. In this work, VBC is applied to bioequivalence studies of three anti-hypertensive drugs: amlodipine, irbesartan, and hydrochlorothiazide. The results suggest that VBC is a reproducible, easily applicable method allowing for the discrimination and utilization of the endpoint component expressing different attributes. All clinical characteristics are assessed with increased statistical power, without inflation of type I error. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Imaging)
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15 pages, 2075 KiB  
Article
Incremental Value of Biventricular Strain in Patients with Severe Aortic Stenosis
by Camille Sarrazyn, Xavier Galloo, Maria Chiara Meucci, Steele C. Butcher, Kensuke Hirsawa, Rinchyenkhand Myagmardorj, Frank van der Kley, Tine De Backer, Jeroen J. Bax and Nina Ajmone Marsan
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(3), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11030090 - 13 Mar 2024
Viewed by 1537
Abstract
(1) Background: Left ventricular global longitudinal (LVGLS) and right ventricular free wall strain (RVFWS) demonstrated separate prognostic values in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). However, studies evaluating the combined assessment of LVGLS and RVFWS have shown contradictory results. This study explored the [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Left ventricular global longitudinal (LVGLS) and right ventricular free wall strain (RVFWS) demonstrated separate prognostic values in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). However, studies evaluating the combined assessment of LVGLS and RVFWS have shown contradictory results. This study explored the prognostic value of combining LVGLS and RVFWS in a large group of severe AS patients referred for transcatheter aortic valve implantation. (2) Methods: Patients were classified into three groups: preserved (LVGLS ≥ 15% AND RVFWS > 20%), single-ventricle impaired (LVGLS < 15% OR RVFWS ≤ 20%), or biventricular-impaired strain group (LVGLS < 15% AND RVFWS ≤ 20%). The cut-off values were based on previously published data and spline analyses. The endpoint was all-cause mortality. (3) Results: Of the 712 patients included (age 80 ± 7 years, 53% men), 248 (35%) died. The single-ventricle impaired and biventricular-impaired (vs. preserved) strain groups showed significantly lower 5-year survival rates (68% and 55% vs. 77%, respectively, p < 0.001). Through multivariable analysis, single-ventricle impaired (HR 1.762; 95% CI: 1.114–2.788; p = 0.015) and biventricular-impaired strain groups (HR 1.920; 95% CI: 1.134–3.250; p = 0.015) were independently associated with all-cause mortality. These findings were confirmed with a sensitivity analysis in patients with preserved LV ejection fraction. (4) Conclusions: In patients with severe AS, biventricular strain allows better risk stratification, even if LV ejection fraction is preserved. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Imaging)
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Review

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20 pages, 38951 KiB  
Review
The Key Role of 3D TEE in Assessing the Morphology of Degenerative Mitral Valve Regurgitation
by Francesco Fulvio Faletra, Eluisa La Franca, Laura Anna Leo, Leyla Elif Sade, William Katz, Francesco Musumeci, Caterina Gandolfo, Michele Pilato and Manlio Cipriani
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(11), 342; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11110342 - 28 Oct 2024
Viewed by 551
Abstract
Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D TTE) and two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2D TEE) are regarded as the main imaging techniques for the assessment of degenerative mitral valve regurgitation (DMVR). However, describing the complex morphology of DMVR with 2D TTE and 2D TEE remains at the [...] Read more.
Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D TTE) and two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2D TEE) are regarded as the main imaging techniques for the assessment of degenerative mitral valve regurgitation (DMVR). However, describing the complex morphology of DMVR with 2D TTE and 2D TEE remains at the very least challenging. Three-dimensional (3D) TEE is an ideal technique for illustrating the extremely variable morphology of DMVR, providing images of unparalleled quality in terms of anatomical detail. In this review, we describe the key role of 3D TEE in various morphological scenarios that reflect everyday experiences in an echocardiographic laboratory. We also discuss the growing role of 3D TEE in mitral valve (MV) transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) and new modalities such as photorealistic and transparent displays, surface rendering parametric color maps, new algorithms for MVR quantification, and the potential role of new mini-TEE probes in adult patients with DMVR. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Imaging)
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15 pages, 3779 KiB  
Review
A Review Paper on Optical Coherence Tomography Evaluation of Coronary Calcification Pattern: Is It Relevant Today?
by Horea-Laurentiu Onea, Maria Olinic, Florin-Leontin Lazar, Calin Homorodean, Mihai Claudiu Ober, Mihail Spinu, Alexandru Achim, Dan Alexandru Tataru and Dan Mircea Olinic
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(8), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11080231 - 24 Jul 2024
Viewed by 1248
Abstract
The process of coronary calcification represents one of the numerous pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the atherosclerosis continuum. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) represents an ideal imaging modality to assess plaque components, especially calcium. Different calcification patterns have been contemporarily described in both early stages [...] Read more.
The process of coronary calcification represents one of the numerous pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the atherosclerosis continuum. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) represents an ideal imaging modality to assess plaque components, especially calcium. Different calcification patterns have been contemporarily described in both early stages and advanced atherosclerosis. Microcalcifications and spotty calcifications correlate positively with macrophage burden and inflammatory markers and are more frequently found in the superficial layers of ruptured plaques in acute coronary syndrome patients. More compact, extensive calcification may reflect a later stage of the disease and was traditionally associated with plaque stability. Nevertheless, a small number of culprit coronary lesions demonstrates the presence of dense calcified plaques. The purpose of the current paper is to review the most recent OCT data on coronary calcification and the interrelation between calcification pattern and plaque vulnerability. How different calcified plaques influence treatment strategies and associated prognostic implications is of great interest. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Imaging)
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15 pages, 2835 KiB  
Review
Potential Role of Left Atrial Strain to Predict Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence after Catheter Ablation Therapy: A Clinical and Systematic Review
by Maria Barilli, Giulia Elena Mandoli, Nicolò Sisti, Aleksander Dokollari, Nicolò Ghionzoli, Hatem Soliman-Aboumarie, Flavio D’Ascenzi, Marta Focardi, Luna Cavigli, Maria Concetta Pastore and Matteo Cameli
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(7), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11070203 - 30 Jun 2024
Viewed by 1192
Abstract
Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with catheter ablation (CA) represents an effective therapy for atrial fibrillation (AF). Unfortunately, it is still not exempt from severe complications. The balance of risks and benefits should be assessed, and a patient-tailored approach is desirable. So far, several [...] Read more.
Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) with catheter ablation (CA) represents an effective therapy for atrial fibrillation (AF). Unfortunately, it is still not exempt from severe complications. The balance of risks and benefits should be assessed, and a patient-tailored approach is desirable. So far, several clinical and cardiac imaging parameters have been evaluated to investigate pre- and post-procedural features that could help clinicians in the selection of patients at high risk of a poor outcome after CA. This clinical and systematic review analyses the potential role of new LA parameters, such as LA reservoir strain, to predict AF recurrence after CA therapy. Notably, LA reservoir strain gains substantial clinical importance in patients with paroxysmal AF and when a low CHADS2-VASc score is retrieved. LA reservoir strain provides data concerning the risk of AF recurrence after PVI and, thus, in the management of long-term medical therapy in this patient’s group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Imaging)
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49 pages, 32709 KiB  
Review
Cardiovascular Computed Tomography in the Diagnosis of Cardiovascular Disease: Beyond Lumen Assessment
by Zhonghua Sun, Jenna Silberstein and Mauro Vaccarezza
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11010022 - 12 Jan 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2694
Abstract
Cardiovascular CT is being widely used in the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease due to the rapid technological advancements in CT scanning techniques. These advancements include the development of multi-slice CT, from early generation to the latest models, which has the capability of acquiring [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular CT is being widely used in the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease due to the rapid technological advancements in CT scanning techniques. These advancements include the development of multi-slice CT, from early generation to the latest models, which has the capability of acquiring images with high spatial and temporal resolution. The recent emergence of photon-counting CT has further enhanced CT performance in clinical applications, providing improved spatial and contrast resolution. CT-derived fractional flow reserve is superior to standard CT-based anatomical assessment for the detection of lesion-specific myocardial ischemia. CT-derived 3D-printed patient-specific models are also superior to standard CT, offering advantages in terms of educational value, surgical planning, and the simulation of cardiovascular disease treatment, as well as enhancing doctor–patient communication. Three-dimensional visualization tools including virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality are further advancing the clinical value of cardiovascular CT in cardiovascular disease. With the widespread use of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning in cardiovascular disease, the diagnostic performance of cardiovascular CT has significantly improved, with promising results being presented in terms of both disease diagnosis and prediction. This review article provides an overview of the applications of cardiovascular CT, covering its performance from the perspective of its diagnostic value based on traditional lumen assessment to the identification of vulnerable lesions for the prediction of disease outcomes with the use of these advanced technologies. The limitations and future prospects of these technologies are also discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Imaging)
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40 pages, 1634 KiB  
Review
Multimodal Cardiac Imaging in the Assessment of Patients Who Have Suffered a Cardioembolic Stroke: A Review
by Elizabeth Hui En Thong, William K. F. Kong, Kian-Keong Poh, Raymond Wong, Ping Chai and Ching-Hui Sia
J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2024, 11(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd11010013 - 31 Dec 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3883
Abstract
Cardioembolic strokes account for 20–25% of all ischaemic strokes, with their incidence increasing with age. Cardiac imaging plays a crucial role in identifying cardioembolic causes of stroke, with early and accurate identification affecting treatment, preventing recurrence, and reducing stroke incidence. Echocardiography serves as [...] Read more.
Cardioembolic strokes account for 20–25% of all ischaemic strokes, with their incidence increasing with age. Cardiac imaging plays a crucial role in identifying cardioembolic causes of stroke, with early and accurate identification affecting treatment, preventing recurrence, and reducing stroke incidence. Echocardiography serves as the mainstay of cardiac evaluation. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the first line in the basic evaluation of structural heart disorders, valvular disease, vegetations, and intraventricular thrombus. It can be used to measure chamber size and systolic/diastolic function. Trans-oesophageal echocardiography (TOE) yields better results in identifying potential cardioembolic sources of stroke and should be strongly considered, especially if TTE does not yield adequate results. Cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging provide better soft tissue characterisation, high-grade anatomical information, spatial and temporal visualisation, and image reconstruction in multiple planes, especially with contrast. These techniques are useful in cases of inconclusive echocardiograms and can be used to detect and characterise valvular lesions, thrombi, fibrosis, cardiomyopathies, and aortic plaques. Nuclear imaging is not routinely used, but it can be used to assess left-ventricular perfusion, function, and dimensions and may be useful in cases of infective endocarditis. Its use should be considered on a case-by-case basis. The accuracy of each imaging modality depends on the likely source of cardioembolism, and the choice of imaging approach should be tailored to individual patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Imaging)
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