Введение. Фибрилляция предсердий (ФП) – прогностически неблагоприятная аритмия, ассоциирующаяся с пятикратным увеличением риска тромбоэмболических осложнений, источником которых является тромб ушка левого предсердия (УЛП). Цель исследования: изучить роль полиморфизма генов тромбофилии у пациентов с неклапанной ФП и тромбозом УЛП. Материалы и методы. В проспективное исследование включены 86 пациентов с неклапанной ФП (53 мужчины и 33 женщины, средний возраст 58,35 ± 9,34 лет): 60 пациентов с тромбозом УЛП (основная группа), 26 пациентов – без тромбоза УЛП (контрольная группа). Всем пациентам выполнялись лабораторные методы исследования с определением параметров коагуляционного и тромбоцитарного звеньев гемостаза и молекулярно-генетическое тестирование: FII 20210 G > A, FV 1691 G > A, FVII 10976 G > A, F13 G > T, FGB 455 G > A, ITGA2 807 C > T, ITGB3 1565 Т > С, PAI‑1–675 5G > 4G. Результаты. У пациентов с наличием тромбоза УЛП в сравнении с контрольной группой отмечена более частая встречаемость генов тромбоцитарного звена гемостаза – полиморфизма 807 T гена ITGA2 (51,7% и 23,1%; р = 0,014) и 1565 С гена ITGB3 (23,3% и 3,8%; р = 0,032). Не выявлено значимых различий по показателям агрегометрии между группами в зависимости от наличия мутантных аллелей ITGA2 и ITGB3. Сочетание мутантных аллелей обоих генов интегринов является прогностически неблагоприятной комбинацией для развития тромбоза и ассоциируется с увеличенным индексом объема левого предсердия (47,5 ± 13,3 мл/м2) в отличие от изолированного присутствия мутаций одного из интегринов — ITGA2 или ITGB3 (37,3 ± 9,5 мл/м2), либо полного отсутствия данных мутаций (36,1 ± 10,7 мл/м2). Заключение. У пациентов с ФП и тромбозом УЛП значимо чаще встречается неблагоприятная комбинация носительства мутантных аллелей генов ITGA2 и ITGВ3, ассоциирующаяся с выраженностью структурного ремоделирования левого предсердия и не связанная с агрегационной активностью тромбоцитов. troduction. Atrial fibrillation (AF) is cardiac arrhythmia with an unfavorable prognosis. AF is associated with a 5-fold increase in the risk of thromboembolic complications due to a thrombus in the left atrial appendage (LAA). Aim: to study the role of thrombophilia gene polymorphisms in patients with non-valvular AF and LAA thrombosis. Materials and Methods. The prospective study included 86 patients with non-valvular AF (53 men and 33 women with a mean age of 58.35 ± 9.34 years). Among them, 60 patients had LAA thrombosis (main group), while the remaining 26 patients had no such thrombosis (control group). All patients underwent laboratory testing to evaluate coagulation and platelet hemostasis parameters, as well as molecular genetic testing: FII 20210 G > A, FV 1691 G > A, FVII 10976 G > A, F13 G > T, FGB 455 G > A, ITGA2 807 C > T, ITGB3 1565 T > C, PAI‑1–675 5G > 4G. Results. Platelet hemostasis genes were observed more frequently in patients with LAA thrombosis compared with the control group. Specifically, 807T polymorphism of the ITGA2 gene (51.7% and 23.1%; p = 0.014) and 1565 C of the ITGB3 gene (23.3% and 3.8%; p = 0.032) were noted. There were no significant differences in aggregometry between the groups depending on the presence of mutant alleles of ITGA2 and ITGB3. The combination of mutant alleles of both integrin genes is prognostically unfavorable for thrombosis development and is associated with an increased left atrial volume index (47.5 ± 13.3 mL/m2) in contrast to the presence of mutations in only one of the integrins – ITGA2 or ITGB3 (37.3 ± 9.5 mL/m2), or the absence of these mutations (36.1 ± 10.7 mL/m2). Conclusion. In patients with AF and LAA thrombosis, a statistically significant increase in frequency was found in carriers of mutant alleles of the ITGA2 and ITGВ3 genes. This unfavorable combination was associated with the severity of left atrium structural remodeling but not associated with platelet aggregation activity.

The article focuses on the role of left atrial (LA) fibrosis as the basis of the electroanatomic substrate in atrial fibrillation (AF), which determines not only the stability of AF but also the success of catheter ablation (CA). In the article the molecular and cellular aspects of LA fibrosis formation and possible mechanisms of arrhythmogenic effects of fibrotic tissue are considered in details, the methods of estimation of LA fibrosis size determining the effectiveness of CA in patients with AF are demonstrated. Current data on the possibilities of using circulating fibrosis biomarkers as predictors of fibrosis severity and recurrence of AF after CA are presented.

Aim: To test the previously developed predictive model on a test set, including patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Material and Methods. A predictive model was previously developed on a training set of 638 patients with non-valvular AF. The test set included 175 randomly selected patients with non-valvular AF hospitalized at the Tyumen Cardiology Research Center for radiofrequency ablation (RFA) or electrical cardioversion in 2018-2021. The quality of the predictive model was assessed using ROC analysis. Results. Arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease, congestive chronic heart failure, and persistent AF were more common in patients of both sets with left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis. Patients of the training and test sets with LAA thrombus had more pronounced structural changes in the heart cavities and similar changes in the geometry of the heart: normal left ventricle (LV) geometry was less common and eccentric LV hypertrophy was more common. According to the results of a previous retrospective analysis of the data, independent predictors of LAA thrombosis were persistent type of AF, left atrium size, and eccentric LV hypertrophy. Based on the data gathered, a predictive model LAA thrombosis was developed as an equation that includes 3 variables. The cut-off point for calculating the probability of LAA thrombosis is 0.07. Applying this model on a test set showed the good quality of the model: the area under the curve obtained using ROC analysis was 0.750 ( p < 0.001). At the same time, the sensitivity and specificity of this model for the detection of LAA thrombosis were 72.3% and 71%, respectively. Conclusion. The evaluation of the quality of the LAA thrombosis predictive model developed on the training set confirmed its good quality on a similar test set of patients with non-valvular AF hospitalized for RFA or electrical cardioversion.

Aim. To develop a method for predicting the area of low-voltage area (LVA) in the left atrium (LA), associated with the minimum and maximum expected effectiveness of primary radiofrequency ablation (RFA) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) using non-invasive predictors. Methods. A longitudinal single-center study included 150 symptomatic non-valvular AF pts aged 20-72 years (median 59.0 [51.0; 64.0]), including 63 women (42%) hospitalized for primary RFA; 119 pts (79.3%) had paroxysmal and 31 (20.7%) - persistent AF. All pts initially underwent general clinical examination, transesophageal and advanced transthoracic echocardiography, estimation of NT-proBNP (pg/ml) and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15, pg/ml) in the blood. Electroanatomical mapping was performed in sinus rhythm before RFA. The area of LVA (<0.5 mV) was calculated as percentage of total LA area. Left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (LVEF) was >50% in all pts. Results. LVA area varied from 0 to 95.3%, median was 13.7% [5.1; 30.9]. Depending on LVA area, pts were divided into 3 groups: 36 pts (<5%) in gr. 1; 74 pts (5-30%) in gr. 2; 40 pts (>30%) in gr. 3. Increase of LVA area was associated with age, presence, and severity of congestive heart failure (CHF), persistent AF, CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score ≥3 points, increase of LA volume, LV hypertrophy and increase of NT-proBNP and GDF-15 levels. In univariate analysis, LVA area <5% was associated with NT-proBNP level <125 pg/ml, absence of obesity and CHF, lower LA volume index (<28 ml/ m 2 ). Independent predictors of LVA <5% were: NT-proBNP <125 pg/ml, absence of obesity and LA volume index ≤28 ml/ m 2 . The model was of good quality, C-statistics was 0.775 (p<0.001). In univariate analysis, LVA area >30 % was associated with age >60 years, NT-proBNP >125 pg/ml, GDF-15 >840 pg/ml, persistent AF, presence of LV hypertrophy, LVEF ≤60%, LA volume index ≥ 32 ml/m 2 . Independent predictors of LVA >30% were: LA volume index ≥32 ml/m 2 , GDF-15 >840 pg/ml, and LVEF ≤60%. The model was of good quality, C-statistics was 0.752 (p<0.001). Conclusion. Evaluation of noninvasive parameters, including clinical characteristics, echocardiographic parameters, and blood levels of NT-proBNP and GDF-15, allows prediction of electroanatomical substrate in left atrium in pts with non-valvular AF referred to primary RFA.

Low-grade systemic inflammation, myocardial stress, and extracellular matrix fibrosis lead to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm and the H2FPEF score are recommended for detecting HFpEF. Their low compliance is the reason for improving the methods for diagnosing HFpEF. Modern paraclinical diagnostics of HFpEF includes an assessment of the left ventricular filling pressure during diastolic stress test. Phase analysis of left atrial strain during resting echocardiography may be promising to conclude an increase in mean left atrial pressure. Research interest is growing in relation to biomarkers involved in the regulation of collagen synthesis. Together, paraclinical diagnostics help to characterize sequential morphofunctional cardiac remodeling, increasing the possibility of HFpEF detection.

The article presents a clinical case of a young patient living in the Far North for a long time with Frederick’s syndrome and diagnosed of the left atrial appendage thrombosis.

Aim. To study the role of fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) as a predictor of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis in patients (pts) with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) and different risk levels of thromboembolic complications (TEC) according to the CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc score. Methods. The study included 250 pts with non-valvular AF hospitalized for radiofrequency ablation, divided into 2 groups: group (gr.) 1 - with 0-1 points (n=79) and gr.2 - with ≥2 points on the CHA2DS2-VASc scale (n=171). According to the results of transesophageal echocardiography, pts of each group were divided into subgroups depending on the presence of LAA thrombosis, which was found in 19 pts of gr.1 and 72 of gr.2. Patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography, determination of blood biomarkers: NT-proBNP (pg/ml), GDF-15 (pg/ml), FGF-23 (pmol/l), highly sensitive C-reactive protein (mg/l), cystatin C (mg/l). Results. Pts with LAA thrombosis in both groups had in common: a longer history of arterial hypertension, a greater proportion of coronary artery disease and persistent AF, lower GFR, higher values of atrial volume indices, left ventricle myocardial mass, systolic pressure in the pulmonary artery, median NT-proBNP, FGF-23 and GDF-15. Logistic regression analysis performed separately in the groups revealed the same independent predictors of LAA thrombosis in both groups: LA volume index (LAVI) and the level of FGF-23 in the blood. At the same time, the threshold value of FGF-23, separating pts by the presence of LAA thrombosis, was higher in gr.1 (≥0.85 and ≥0.5 pmol/l, respectively), and the area under the AUC curve for FGF-23 in gr.1 was greater: 0.964 vs 0.865 in gr.2 (p=0.026). Conclusion. The serum level of FGF-23, along with the LAVI, is an independent predictor of LAA thrombosis in pts with AF and various risk of TEC according to CHA 2 DS 2 -VASc; the threshold level of FGF-23 for pts at low risk of TEC is significantly higher than for high risk pts, and allows more accurate prediction of the presence of LAA thrombosis.

Aim. To compare clinical, echocardiographic characteristics and blood biomarkers in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) depending on the presence of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombus and to identify independent predictors of LAA thrombosis.Material and methods. Patients with nonvalvular AF subjected to transesopha geal echocardiography before catheter ablation were divided into 2 groups comparable by sex and age: group 1 (n=45) — with LAA throm bosis; group 2 (n=97) — without LAA thrombosis. The patients underwent transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. In addition, the following blood biomarkers were analyzed: NT-proBNP (pg/ml), GDF-15 (pg/ml), TGF-β1 (pg/ml), PIIINP (ng/ml), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) (mg/l), cystatin C (mg/l).Results. In group 1, persistent AF, coronary artery disease, heart failure were more often noted. In addition, group 1 patients had higher volume indices of both atria, left ventricular mass index and pulmonary artery systolic pressure, as well as lower left ventricular ejection fraction and blood flow velocity in the LAA. There were no differences in the groups in terms of the mean CHA2DS2VASc score, the proportion of patients taking oral anticoagulants (OAC), and the OAC spectrum. In group 1, higher levels of NT-proBNP (p=0,0001), GDF15 (p=0,0001), PIIINP (p=0,0002) were found with no differences in the levels of TGF-β1, hsCRP and cystatin C. A stepwise logistic regression revealed independent predictors of LAA thrombosis: LA volume index (ml/m2) — odds ratio (OR)=1,084, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1,028-1,143 (p=0,003); GDF15 ≥933 pg/ml — OR=3,054, 95% CI, 1,260-7,403 (p=0,013); PIIINP ≥68 pg/ml — OR=5,865, 95% CI, 2,404-14,308 (p<0,001). There were following model quality parameters: AUC=0,815 (p<0,001), specificity, 74,4%, sensitivity, 72,7%.Conclusion. In patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation taking OAC, serum levels of fibrosis biomarkers PIIINP ≥68 pg/mL and GDF-15 ≥933 pg/mL, along with the left atrial volume index, were independent predictors of LAA thrombosis.

Aim To study the role of blood concentration of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) as a predictor of left atrial/left atrial appendage (LA/LAA) thrombosis in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF).Material and methods 538 patients with nonvalvular AF were admitted to the Tyumen Cardiology Research Center in 2019-2020 for radiofrequency ablation and elective cardioversion. According to findings of transesophageal echocardiography (EcoCG), 42 (7.8%) of these patients had LA/LAA thrombosis and 79 (14.7%) of them had the effect of spontaneous echo contrast (SEC). This comparative, cross-sectional, cohort study included at the initial stage 158 successively hospitalized patients with nonvalvular AF: group 1 (with LA/LAA thrombosis, n=42) and group 2 (without LA/LAA thrombosis and without SEC, n=116). To eliminate significant differences in age between the groups, an additional inclusion criterium was introduced, age from 45 to 75 years. Finally, 144 patients were included into the study: group 1 (with LA/LAA thrombosis, n=42, mean age 60.9±7.2 years) and group 2 (without LA/LAA thrombosis and without SEC, n=116, mean age 59.5±6.0 years). 93 (91%) patients in group 1 and 40 (95%) patients in group 2 had arterial hypertension (p=0.4168); 53 (52%) and 29 (^(%), respectively, had ischemic heart disease (p=0.0611). The groups did not differ in sex, profile of major cardiovascular diseases, or frequency and range of oral anticoagulant treatment. General clinical evaluation, EchoCG, and laboratory tests, including measurements of blood concentrations of GDF-15 and NT-proBNP, were performed.Results In the group with LA/LAA thrombosis, 1) persistent AF prevailed whereas paroxysmal AF was more frequently observed in patients without thrombosis; 2) a tendency toward more pronounced chronic heart failure was observed; 3) tendencies toward a high median CHA2DS2‑VASc score and toward a greater proportion of patients with scores ≥3 were observed. According to EchoCG findings, group 1 had higher values of sizes and volumes of both atria and the right ventricle, left ventricular (LV) end-systolic volume and size, pulmonary artery systolic blood pressure, and LV myocardial mass index. LV ejection fraction (EF) was in the normal range in both groups but it was significantly lower for patients with LA/LAA thrombosis, 59.1±5.1 and 64.0±7.3, respectively (p=0.00006). Concentrations of GDF-15 (p=0.00025) and NT-proBNP were significantly higher in group 1 than in group 2 (p=0.000001). After determining the threshold values for both biomarkers using the ROC analysis, two independent predictors of LA/LAA thrombosis were obtained by the stepwise multiple regression analysis: GDF-15 >935.0 pg/ml (OR=4.132, 95 % CI 1.305-13.084) and LV EF (OR=0.859, 95 % CI 0.776-0.951). The ROC analysis assessed the model quality as good: AUC=0.776 (p<0.001), sensitivity 78.3 %, specificity 78.3 %.Conclusion For patients with nonvalvular AF, both increased GDF-15 (>935.0 pg/ml) and LV EF are independent predictors for LA/LAA thrombosis.

Aim. To analyze thromboembolic risk factors and identify additional predictors of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis, which are not included in the CHA2DS2VASc scale, in long-term Far North residents with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF).Material and methods. The study included 162 patients (men, 108; women, 54; mean age, 55,3±8,7 years) with non-valvular AF, living in the Far North, and 684 patients (men, 408; women, 276; mean age, 56,9±9,3 years), living in the temperate latitudes, hospitalized for catheter ablation. All patients underwent transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography. According to transesophageal echocardiography, Far North patients were divided into two groups: group 1 — 21 patients with LAA thrombosis, group 2 — 141 patients without LAA thrombosis.Results. Compared to patients living in the temperate latitudes, Far North patients were younger (p=0,021) and were more likely to have type 2 diabetes (14,2% vs 8,3%, p=0,022), class ³II obesity (29,6% vs 21,1%, p=0,019), persistent AF(47,5% vs 33,2%, p=0,0019), LAA thrombosis (13% vs 6,6%, p=0,006), and severe structural and functional cardiac abnormalities (biatrial and right ventricular enlargement, lower left ventricular ejection fraction). In Far North patients, using logistic regression, independent predictors of LAA thrombosis were identified: an increase in left ventricular mass index (odds ratio (OR), 1,029; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1,011-1,048; p=0,001), persistent AF (OR, 3,521; 95% CI, 1,050-11,800; p=0,041).Conclusion. In Far North patients with nonvalvular AF, scheduled for catheter ablation, compared with patients from temperate latitudes, with a similar profile of cardiovascular diseases at a younger age, type 2 diabetes, grade ³II obesity, persistent AF, and LAA thrombosis were more common. The presence of persistent AF and an increase in left ventricular mass index are independent predictors of LAA thrombosis in Far North patients with nonvalvular AF.

The presence of left atrial/left atrial appendage (LA/LAA) thrombus is used as a surrogate marker of potential stroke in patients (pts) with atrial fibrillation (AF). To assess the role of growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) level, clinical and echocardiographic (EchoCG) data as predictors of LA/LAA thrombus in pts with nonvalvular AF. Out of 158 pts with nonvalvular AF admitted to Cardiology Center for radiofrequency ablation or elective cardioversion in 2019–2020 2 groups were formed according to transesophageal EchoCG results: group 1 included pts without LA/LAA thrombus (n=102, mean age 59.5±6.0 years) and group 2 (n=42, mean age 60.9±8.8 years) – pts with LA/LAA thrombus. Arterial hypertension was found in 93 pts of group 1 (91%) and in 40 pts of group 2 (95%, p=0.42), coronary artery disease - in 53 pts (52%) and 29 pts (69%), respectively (p=0.06). Both groups did not differ in frequency and spectrum of oral anticoagulants administration. General clinical assessment, EchoCG, and laboratory tests were performed, including GDF-15 (pg/ml) levels using Human GDF-15/MIC-1 ELISA kit and NT-proBNP (pg/ml) in blood. Pts with LA/LAA thrombus more often had persistent AF, while paroxysmal AF was more common in pts without thrombus. There was a tendency to more significant congestive heart failure in group 2. Mean CHA2DS2-VASc score was higher in pts with LA/LAA thrombus, also there was a tendency to a larger proportion of pts with scores ≥3. According to EchoCG data, sizes and volumes of both atria, right ventricle, end-systolic volume, left ventricular (LV) size, pulmonary artery systolic pressure and LV mass index were higher in group 2; LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was normal in both groups, but it was significantly lower in pts with LA/LAA thrombus: 59.1±5.1 and 64.0±7.3, respectively (p<0.001). GDF-15 and NT-proBNP levels were significantly higher in group 2 compared to group 1: p=0.00025 and p=0.ehab724.048801 respectively. According to ROC analysis cut-off were set at level >935.0 pg/ml for GDF-15 (AUC=0.705, 95% CI 0.609–0.800, p<0.001) and >143 pg/ml for NT-proBNP (AUC=0.759, 95% CI 0.670–0.849, p<0.001). Multivariate logistic regression revealed the following variables as independent predictors of LAAT: GDF-15 >935.0 pg/ml (OR=4.132, 95% CI 1.305–13.084) and LVEF (OR=0.859, 95% CI 0.776–0.951). According to ROC analysis, the model had a good quality: AUC=0.776 (p<0.001), sensitivity was 78.3%., specificity - 78.3%. High level of GDF-15 (>935.0 pg/ml) along with lower LVEF are independent predictors of LA/LAA thrombus in pts with nonvalvular AF. Type of funding sources: None.

Aim. To identify predictors of spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) and/or left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) who are referred for elective cardioversion or catheter ablation (CA). Material and methods . A retrospective analysis of data from 638 patients with nonvalvular AF who were hospitalized from 2014 to 2017 for cardioversion or CA was performed. All patients underwent diagnostic tests, including transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Results. According to the TEE results, two groups of patients were formed: group 1 — 95 patients (14,9%) with signs of SEC and/or thrombosis in LAA; group 2 — 543 patients (85,1%) without SEC or thrombosis in LAA. Patients with the phenomenon of SEC and/or LAA thrombosis were older, had a higher risk on the CHA2DS2-VASc score. These patients were more likely to have coronary heart disease (CAD), hypertension, stage IIA chronic heart failure, obese class >II, persistent or permanent AF Patients in both groups did not differ in anticoagulant therapy. Patients in group 1 had a larger size of the left and right atria, right ventricle, left ventricular (LV) end-systolic and end-diastolic diameters, higher LV mass index, lower values of LV ejection fraction and blood flow velocity in LAA. Logistic regression revealed following independent predictors of SEC and/or LAA thrombosis: CAD (odds ratio (OR) 2,289; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1,313-3,990; p=0,003), persistent or permanent AF (OR 2,071; 95% CI 1,222-3,510; p=0,007), LA diameter >43 mm (OR 3,569; 95% CI 2,0822-6,117; p 43 mm, concentric or eccentric LV hypertrophy are independent predictors of SEC and/or LAA thrombosis.

Introduction. Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF-15) is known to be an independent predictor of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, as well as major bleeding in patients (pts) with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Since GDF-15 is expressed by a wide array of cells in response to inflammation and myocardial stress, it is interesting to study which clinical and functional parameters are most associated with the level of GDF-15 in pts with non-valvular AF and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. Aim. To study the relationship of GDF-15 level in blood serum with parameters of clinical and functional status and to determine independent predictors of GDF-15 level in pts with non-valvular AF. Material and methods. 87 pts with non-valvular AF were studied, with an average age of 56.9±9.2 years. A general clinical examination, echocardiography and laboratory tests were performed, including fasting serum glucose (mmol/l),highly sensitive C-reactive protein (h/s CRP) (mg/l), creatinine level (mkmol/l) and subsequent calculation of glomerular filtration rate (ml/min/1.73m2), and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) (pg/ml). The level of GDF15 (pg/ml) in blood serum was determined using an enzyme immunoassay with the help of the human GDF-15/MIC-1 ELISA analytical kit (BioVender, Czech Republic). Results. The increase in the GDF-15 level was associated with ageing, ischemic heart disease, severity of arterial hypertension and heart failure, raising the risk of stroke, according to the scale CHA2DS2-VASc, disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism and obesity, increasing the levels h/s CRP and NT-proBNP, enlargement of the right and left atria, signs of diastolic left ventricular dysfunction and structural remodeling in the form of eccentric hypertrophy. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed 2 independent predictors of GDF-15 levels: age and fasting glucose. Conclusion. GDF-15 appears as an integral biomarker of age-related metabolic disorders and structural and functional changes in the heart, which opens up prospects for further study of its prognostic significance in pts with non-valvular AF.

Aim. To assess the relationship between the prolonged PR interval (≥200 ms) and the long-term survival of patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT).Material and methods. A total of 85 patients (mean age — 55,1Ѓ}9,9 years; men — 81,2%) with NYHA class II-IV heart failure (HF) were examined. The mean follow-up was 34,0Ѓ}21,2 months. Patients with PR<200 ms (n=52) made up group I, with PR≥200 ms (n=33) — group II. Then the patients were divided into subgroups depending on the QRS duration: ≥150 ms (n=33 in group I and n=14 in group II, respectively) <150 ms (n=19 in group I and n=19 in group II, respectively).Results. In patients of group II, a history of myocardial infarction (MI) was more often registered (p=0,005), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was lower (p=0,032). In a multivariate analysis, MI (OR 3,217; CI 95% 1,188-8,712; p=0,022) and LVEF value (OR 0,869; CI 95% 0,780-0,968; p=0,011) had a significant relationship with the PR interval prolongation (≥200 ms). The survival of patients of group I was 59,6%, group II — 18,2% (Log-rank test p<0,001). According to Cox regression model, the initial left ventricle end-systolic volume (OR 1,012; 95% CI 1,006-1,017; p<0,001), inferior wall MI (OR 1,690; 95% CI 1,131-2,527; p=0,011) and PR interval ≥200 ms (OR 2,179; 95% CI 1,213–3,915; p=0,009) were associated with long-term mortality. In patients with PR≥200 ms, survival rate was low, regardless of the QRS duration (21,4% in patients with QRS≥150 ms, 15,8% in patients with QRS<150 ms; Log-rank test p=0,698) In patients with PR<200 ms, the survival rate of patients with QRS≥150 ms was 72,7%, and for patients with QRS<150 ms — 36,8% (Log-rank test p=0,031).Conclusion. In HF patients, PR interval prolongation (≥200 ms) is associated with long-term mortality increase. The highest survival rates were observed in patients with PR<200 ms and QRS≥150 ms. In patients with QRS≥150 ms, the presence of PR≥200 ms should be considered as an additional criterion for CRT.

Introduction. Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF-15) is known to be an independent predictor of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, as well as major bleeding in patients (pts) with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF). Since GDF-15 is expressed by a wide array of cells in response to inflammation and myocardial stress, it is interesting to study which clinical and functional parameters are most associated with the level of GDF-15 in pts with non-valvular AF and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. Aim. To study the relationship of GDF-15 level in blood serum with parameters of clinical and functional status and to determine independent predictors of GDF-15 level in pts with non-valvular AF. Material and methods. 87 pts with non-valvular AF were studied, with an average age of 56.9±9.2 years. A general clinical examination, echocardiography and laboratory tests were performed, including fasting serum glucose (mmol/l),highly sensitive C-reactive protein (h/s CRP) (mg/l), creatinine level (mkmol/l) and subsequent calculation of glomerular filtration rate (ml/min/1.73m2), and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) (pg/ml). The level of GDF15 (pg/ml) in blood serum was determined using an enzyme immunoassay with the help of the human GDF-15/MIC-1 ELISA analytical kit (BioVender, Czech Republic). Results. The increase in the GDF-15 level was associated with ageing, ischemic heart disease, severity of arterial hypertension and heart failure, raising the risk of stroke, according to the scale CHA2DS2-VASc, disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism and obesity, increasing the levels h/s CRP and NT-proBNP, enlargement of the right and left atria, signs of diastolic left ventricular dysfunction and structural remodeling in the form of eccentric hypertrophy. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed 2 independent predictors of GDF-15 levels: age and fasting glucose. Conclusion. GDF-15 appears as an integral biomarker of age-related metabolic disorders and structural and functional changes in the heart, which opens up prospects for further study of its prognostic significance in pts with non-valvular AF.

Aim. To identify predictors of spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) and/or left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) who are referred for elective cardioversion or catheter ablation (CA).Material and methods. A retrospective analysis of data from 638 patients with nonvalvular AF who were hospitalized from 2014 to 2017 for cardioversion or CA was performed. All patients underwent diagnostic tests, including transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).Results. According to the TEE results, two groups of patients were formed: group 1 — 95 patients (14,9%) with signs of SEC and/or thrombosis in LAA; group 2 — 543 patients (85,1%) without SEC or thrombosis in LAA. Patients with the phenomenon of SEC and/or LAA thrombosis were older, had a higher risk on the CHA2DS2-VASc score. These patients were more likely to have coronary heart disease (CAD), hypertension, stage IIA chronic heart failure, obese class >II, persistent or permanent AF Patients in both groups did not differ in anticoagulant therapy. Patients in group 1 had a larger size of the left and right atria, right ventricle, left ventricular (LV) end-systolic and end-diastolic diameters, higher LV mass index, lower values of LV ejection fraction and blood flow velocity in LAA. Logistic regression revealed following independent predictors of SEC and/or LAA thrombosis: CAD (odds ratio (OR) 2,289; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1,313-3,990; p=0,003), persistent or permanent AF (OR 2,071; 95% CI 1,222-3,510; p=0,007), LA diameter >43 mm (OR 3,569; 95% CI 2,0822-6,117; p<0,001), concentric or eccentric LV hypertrophy (OR 2,230; 95% CI 1,302-3,819; p=0,003).Conclusion. As the result, all patients referring for CA or cardioversion, regardless of the CHA2DS2-VASc score, should underwent LAA. According to this study, the presence of CAD, persistent or permanent AF, LA diameter >43 mm, concentric or eccentric LV hypertrophy are independent predictors of SEC and/or LAA thrombosis.

Objective The search for predictors of severe (&gt;35 %) left atrial (LA) fibrosis in patients (pts) with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) directed for catheter ablation (CA).Materials and Methods 69 pts with nonvalvular AF (57 paroxismal and 12 persistent) aged from 32 to 69 years (mean age 57.1±8.4, 28 females) were included in the study, among them 59 pts (86 %) with arterial hypertension (AH), 24 (34.8 %) - with AH and CAD. Complete physical study, laboratory tests (including NT-proBNP level), comprehensive echocardiography were performed. As a surrogate substrate of LA fibrosis, the area of low-voltage (&lt;0.5 mV) zones in LA was estimated in the process of voltage electroanatomic mapping, as the first stage of CA. The total square of LA fibrosis in absolute values (Sf, cm2) and in percent of total LA square (Sf%), as well as the degree of fibrosis: degree I - &lt;5 %, II - 5-19 %, III - 20-35 %, IV - &gt;35 % were calculated. Degree IV of fibrosis was considered as severe fibrosis.Results Extent of fibrosis didn't depend on sex, age, body weight, presence of diabetes, CHA2DS2VASc scores, duration of AF history. There was a tendency to smaller Sf in pts with spontaneous termination of AF compared to those who required cardioversion: 7.2 cm2 (4.4; 17.1) and 12.6 cm2 (4.2; 30.5), respectively (p=0.069). Although NT-proBNP level was normal in 62 % of pts (&lt;125 pg / ml), it was higher in Sf% ≥20 % than in Sf% &lt;5 %: 146.0 (48.0; 276.0) and 42.8 (24.2; 91.0) pg / ml, respectively (p=0.0216). The distribution of pts by left ventricular (LV) geometry types was as follows: normal geometry (t.1) - 34, concentric remodeling (t.2) - 16, concentric LV hypertrophy (t.3) - 8, eccentric LV hypertrophy (t.4) - 11. Compared to pts with t. 1 (reference level), pts with t.3 and t.4 had higher LA volume and LV myocardial mass index, and pts with t.4 had larger end-diastolic LV volume and lower LV ejection fraction. Pts with t.4 tended to have higher Sf% than t.1: 31.1 (10.2; 46.2) and 11.2 (5.1; 28.0), respectively (p=0.053). Using logistic regression 3 independent predictors of LA severe fibrosis were detected: type 4 geometry of LV - OR=8.893 (95 % CI 1.150; 68.78), NT-proBNP &gt;128 pg / ml - OR=6.184 (1.01; 37.99), LA volume index &gt;34 ml / m2 - OR=5.92 (1.05; 33.38). According to ROC analysis, the area of the curve AUC = 0.839 (p&lt;0.001), model specificity - 85.1 %, sensitivity - 70.0 %, predictive accuracy - 82.5 %.Conclusion In pts with nonvalvular AF predictors of severe (&gt;35 %) LA fibrosis were LV geometry type in the form of eccentric LV hypertrophy, LA volume index &gt;34 ml / m2 and NT-proBNP &gt;128 pg / ml.

The article presents data comparing the results of late gadolinium-enhanced magnetic-resonance imaging and bipolar mapping. The results of studies on the use of bipolar mapping data for substrate modification in catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation are presented, and perspectives for the development of the method are indicated.

ДОПОЛНИТЕЛЬНЫЕ ФАКТОРЫ ТРОМБООБРАЗОВАНИЯ УШКА ЛЕВОГО ПРЕДСЕРДИЯПРИ НЕКЛАПАННОЙ ФИБРИЛЛЯЦИИ ПРЕДСЕРДИЙ Н.Ю.Хорькова, Т

Objective:To investigate the incidence of left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis and to assess the oral anticoagulation (OAC) in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (AF) before catheter ablation.Material and Methods.We studied 638 patients with AF who underwent transesophageal echocardiography before AF ablation from 2014 to 2017. The analysis included the baseline characteristics of patients.Results.There was no statistical difference in the risk of thromboembolic complications (TEC) in patients with and without OAC. All patients were divided into four groups: 167 patients (26.2%) received warfarin (group 1); 128 patients (20.1%) received dabigatran (group 2); 145 patients (22.7%) received rivaroxaban or apixaban (group 3); and 198 patients (31%) were not administered with OAC (group 4). Among patients without OAC, only 26 individuals (13.1%) had a low TEC risk, whereas 172 patients had a moderate or high TEC risk. Half of group 4 received antiplatelet drugs, but a third of them had a high TEC risk and were recommended to take OAC. Patients in the pre-ablation period received different types of OAC with the same frequency. LAA thrombosis was detected in 44 patients (6.9%). Significant differences in the incidence of LAA thrombosis in patients receiving different OAC were not detected. LAA thrombosis was detected in one patient receiving dabigatran with a low risk of TEC. There was also a trend for more frequent therapeutic levels of INR in patients taking warfarin with LAA thrombosis and there were no patients with INR > 3.0. About half of patients without thrombosis were treated with subtherapeutic warfarin therapy, and only a third of them had the therapeutic range of INR.Conclusion.Not all patients with non-valvular AF take OAC at the pre-ablation period. All types of OAC are prescribed with the same frequency. Differences in the incidence of LAA thrombosis, depending on the received OAC, were not detected. There was no association between the detection of thrombosis and the therapeutic range of INR in group 1. There were no significant differences in the incidence rates of LAA thrombosis between warfarin, dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or apixaban.