Abstract Percutaneous occlusion of the left atrial appendage (LAA) is an alternative to oral anticoagulation for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) or flutter who have high risk of cardioembolic events, but with a history or high risk of bleeding. In recent years, new generations of occluder devices have been developed, which, combined with greater experience of operators, have made it a safe procedure when properly indicated. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) plays a central role in assessing the morphology of the LAA, […]

Introduction Hypereosinophilic syndromes are characterized by the sustained overproduction of eosinophils, which can infiltrate various organs and release toxins that damage tissues. Causes of increased eosinophils include 1) primary or neoplastic causes (e.g., stem cell, myeloid, or eosinophil neoplasia, and clonal disorders); 2) secondary or reactive causes (e.g., parasitic infections, solid tumors, and T-cell lymphomas); 3) idiopathic causes: part of specific syndromes (e.g., Churg-Strauss); and 4) hypereosinophilia of unknown significance, when there is no organic damage. When specifically discussing rheumatic […]

Abstract Introduction: Left ventricular dysfunction as an independent predictor of mortality in Chagas disease. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is an emerging echocardiographic modality with possible incremental value in early detection of cardiac involvement. Objective: Compare left ventricular function with multiple echocardiographic parameters between patients with the indeterminate and chronic forms of Chagas, and perform a literature review. Methods: In this observational study, 11 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Chagas disease were evaluated. Individuals were distributed as follows: five with […]

Abstract In high-performance athletes, especially those who practice endurance sports that involve high-intensity training for long periods, the heart shows electrical, functional, and structural changes, increasing the likelihood of ventricular and atrial arrhythmias. It is already known that these athletes have increased left atrium (LA) diameter and indexed volume. However, the effects of these changes on atrial function are not yet fully understood. The mechanics of the LA involve three functions: 1) it acts as a reservoir that collects venous […]

Abstract Liver elastography (LE) assesses the systemic consequences of heart failure (HF). This method may help in the prognostic assessment of patients with HF. HF can secondarily affect the function of various organs and systems, especially the liver, through venous congestion. The purpose of this article is to provide a narrative review of the importance of LE in the complementary evaluation of HF. The hepatic consequences of cardiac disease are sometimes silent, without significant changes in physical examination and/or laboratory […]

Abstract Introduction: Predictors of arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death in patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) have been identified. However, they have not been validated after alcohol septal ablation (ASA). Data to predict the occurrence of arrhythmia after the procedure are not certain. Objectives: To retrospectively analyze patients who underwent ASA and to determine the predictors of post-op ventricular arrhythmia. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 53 consecutive patients with HCM who underwent ASA procedure due to symptomatic left ventricular outflow […]

Abstract With technological advancement, physical examination is no longer sufficient for a more accurate assessment of critically ill patients, especially in premature newborns where clinical signs may not be interpreted objectively. Therefore, there is great interest in training neonatologists in its practice, with major global centers already incorporating it permanently into their residency and continuing medical education programs. This review article discusses our experience in teaching institutionally focused echocardiography.

Abstract The prevalence of valvular heart disease remains significant worldwide, as does the resulting use of valve replacement devices. Currently, mechanical valve prostheses (MVP), biological valve prostheses (BVP), and transcatheter valve prostheses are available. Computer tomography (CT) provides excellent spatial resolution and plays a critical role in the diagnostic process for prosthetic valve dysfunction (PVD). CT allows proper visualization of leaflet calcification/thickening (biological) or leaflet motion and angulation (mechanical). CT plays a fundamental role in the diagnosis of pannus and/or […]

Introduction Amyloidosis is a disease characterized by extracellular deposition of insoluble proteins resulting in organ dysfunction. There are more than 30 known proteins capable of aggregating into amyloid fibrils; among these, amyloidosis due to light chain (AL) immunoglobulin and transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) represent 98% of cardiac amyloidosis. Transthyretin (TTR) is a tetrameric protein whose function is to transport thyroxine and retinol-binding protein. It is primarily produced in the liver, with smaller quantities found in the choroid plexus and retinal pigment […]

Abstract Mitral valve regurgitation is the most common valvular heart disease. In order to guide proper therapy, it is paramount to follow and use the guideline-recommended echocardiographic tools. The flow convergent method, which calculates the effective regurgitant orifice area and the regurgitant volume, plays an important role in the diagnostic workup and is widely used by echocardiographers and sonographers. Only by knowing the correct application and avoiding its pitfalls can we guarantee comprehensive and plausible values. This critical review will […]