Vector flow mapping allowed visualization and measurement of several parameters defining vortex behavior inside the cardiac cycle. The differences observed in these parameters between vortices in different phases of the cardiac cycle may be related to their role in optimizing cardiac function.

No abstract

Background: Left ventricular (LV) mechanics are impaired in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS). Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become a widespread (Cardiol J 2018; 25, 4: 487-494)

Aims Severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR) has adverse effects on outcomes, with limited therapeutic options. We report the outcomes of patients undergoing percutaneous annuloplasty as a treatment of  ≥severe functional TR in a single centre. Methods and results Prospective, single-arm, single-centre study that enrolled 24 consecutive patients with at least severe functional TR undergoing percutaneous annuloplasty with Cardioband system between 2019 and 2021. Clinical and echocardiographic data were prospectively collected, with a mean follow-up of 279 ± 246 days. At baseline, 66.6% were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) Classes III and IV and 100% had significant oedema. Technical success was 91.6%. At the end of follow-up, there was one death. Echocardiography showed a significant reduction in septolateral annular diameter of 10.4 mm (P < 0.001) that remained stable at the end of follow-up. The severity of the TR was also reduced. About 81.8% of patients were in NYHA Classes I and II. The number of patients with significant oedema decreased to 46% (P = 0.01). Six-minute walk distance improved by 68.8 m (P = 0.12). Conclusion Percutaneous annuloplasty with Cardioband system is an effective and safe treatment for patients with symptomatic, ≥severe functional TR. Annular reduction and TR severity reduction remained significant and sustained for 1 year. Patients experienced improvements in quality of life and exercise capacity.