Abstract Background Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) can lead to severe respiratory distress and acute cardiac injury, but it is unclear how often it can cause cardiac dysfunction. Objective In this systematic review, we aimed to summarize the main echocardiographic findings in patients with Covid-19. Methods We systematically searched in PUBMED, EMBASE, LILACS and Cochrane databases, in addition MedRxiv and Scielo preprints from inception to July 21st, 2021. Studies reporting echocardiographic data in patients with Covid-19 were included. Demographic characteristics, previous […]

Abstract Background It has recently been demonstrated that the application of high-energy ultrasound and microbubbles, in a technique known as sonothrombolysis, dissolves intravascular thrombi and increases the angiographic recanalization rate in patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Objective To evaluate the effects of sonothrombolysis on left ventricular wall motion and myocardial perfusion in patients with STEMI, using real-time myocardial perfusion echocardiography (RTMPE). Methods One hundred patients with STEMI were randomized into the following 2 groups: therapy (50 patients treated with […]

Abstract Background Left ventriculography is an invasive method for assessment of left ventricular systolic function. Since the advent of noninvasive methods, its use has been questioned, as it carries some risk to the patient. Objective To assess which factors are independently associated with the decision to perform ventriculography in patients with coronary artery disease. Methods Analytical, retrospective, database review study of electronic medical records comparing 21 predefined variables of interest among patients undergoing coronary angiography. P-values <0.05 were considered significant. […]

Abstract Background: Arterial stiffness is an important predictor factor of aortopathy and myocardial remodeling in patients with a bicuspid aortic valve and it might be increased in childhood. Objective: To assess the arterial stiffness and left ventricular myocardial function in children with a well-functioning bicuspid aortic valve. Methods: Forty-four children with a bicuspid aortic valve and 41 healthy peers with a tricuspid aortic valve were included in this case-control study. Diameters and the related z-scores of the aortic root and […]

Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease of genetic origin in the world population, with a prevalence of at least 1/500. The association with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) is not uncommon, as it affects approximately 25% of the world population. Most studies aim at the differential diagnosis between these diseases, but little is known about the magnitude of this association. Objective: To compare left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) in HCM patients with and without associated SAH. […]

Abstract Background: Cardiac cachexia is an important predictive factor of the reduction in survival of patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Objectives: The aims of the present study were to evaluate adropin and irisin levels in cachectic and non-cachectic subjects and the relationships between the levels of these proteins and clinical and laboratory parameters in patients with HFrEF. Methods: The clinical records of patients who were admitted to the cardiology outpatient clinic for heart failure with reduced ejection […]

Abstract Background: Physical exercise should be part of the treatment of post-acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. Objective: To evaluate the effects of two training prescription models (continuous x interval) and its impact on ventricular function in rats after AMI with normal ventricular function. Methods: Forty Wistar rats were evaluated by echocardiography 21 days after the AMI. Those with LVEF = 50% (n = 29) were included in the study and randomized to control group (CG n = 10), continuous training […]