Application of survival classification and regression tree analysis for identification of subgroups of risk in patients with heart failure and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction.

The aim of this study was to identify by classification and regression tree (CART) analysis groups of patients with different survival patterns in a population of patients with heart failure and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (HFrEF) by using standard methods of heart function assessment, as well as well as utilizing non-traditional approaches for determining hydration and nutritional status in HF patients-lung ultrasonography (LUS) and bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) analysis. Eligible patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) below 45% were identified via the daily echocardiography assessments. LUS was performed with patients in the supine position, for a total of 28 sites per complete examination.

Prognostic value of lung ultrasonography and bioimpedance spectroscopy in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction.

Introduction: Chronic heart failure (HF) represents a major global public health problem, and despite significant advances in diagnosis and management over the past two decades, HF patients still have a poor prognosis. The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between lung congestion, as assessed by lung ultrasonography (LUS), bioimpedance spectroscopy, body fluid compartments, and echocardiographic parameters, and to determine the effect of these associations on all-cause mortality in HF patients.

Material And Methods: Eligible patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) below 45% were identified via daily echocardiography assessments.