The Role of ECG Strain Pattern in Prognosis after TAVI: A Sub-Analysis of the DIRECT Trial.

Background: The presence of an electrocardiographic (ECG) strain pattern-among other ECG features-has been shown to be predictive of adverse cardiovascular outcomes in asymptomatic patients with aortic stenosis. However, data evaluating its impact on symptomatic patients undergoing TAVI are scarce. Therefore, we tried to investigate the prognostic impact of baseline ECG strain pattern on clinical outcomes after TAVI.

Long-Term Outcomes and Valve Performance in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation.

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an established method for treating patients with aortic valve stenosis. We sought to determine the long-term clinical outcomes and performance of a self-expanding bioprosthesis beyond 5 years. Consecutive patients scheduled for TAVI were included in the analysis.

Endothelial dysfunction in conduit arteries and in microcirculation. Novel therapeutic approaches.

The vascular endothelium not only is a single monolayer of cells between the vessel lumen and the intimal wall, but also plays an important role by controlling vascular function and structure mainly via the production of nitric oxide (NO). The so called "cardiovascular risk factors" are associated with endothelial dysfunction, that reduces NO bioavailability, increases oxidative stress, and promotes inflammation contributing therefore to the development of atherosclerosis. The significant role of endothelial dysfunction in the development of atherosclerosis emphasizes the need for efficient therapeutic interventions.