Emanuele Bertaglia

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This study looked at how daily episodes of fast heart rates, called atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs), affect the risk of major heart problems, including death from heart disease, hospitalizations for heart failure, and strokes. Among 1,160 patients with heart rhythm issues who were monitored for three years, 52.5% experienced these episodes for at least six minutes a day. Those without a history of atrial fibrillation faced more than a fourfold increased risk of serious heart events due to these episodes, while those with a history did not show this risk. Who this helps: This research benefits doctors treating patients with heart conditions, particularly those without prior atrial fibrillation.

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This study looked at the effectiveness of a two-lead heart device, known as CRT-DX, compared to a traditional three-lead device for patients undergoing cardiac resynchronization therapy. Researchers followed 636 patients and found that the two-lead device was just as effective as the three-lead device, with 13.1% of CRT-DX patients experiencing major health issues compared to 15.6% of patients with the standard device. The two-lead system also resulted in fewer complications related to atrial leads, which is significant for improving patient safety and device management. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart conditions needing device therapy, as well as their doctors.

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This study looked at patients who received a new type of defibrillator called a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) after their previous one (transvenous ICD, or TV-ICD) was removed due to problems like infection (64%) or lead malfunction (36%). Out of 36 patients followed for about 31 months, 8 people (22%) died, mainly from heart failure, and 7 others (19%) faced complications related to the new device. The findings show that the S-ICD is a good option for patients who need a replacement after lead extraction, with deaths primarily linked to existing health conditions rather than the new device itself. Who this helps: This helps patients requiring a defibrillator after complications from their previous device.

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This study looked at the results of 105 patients who received a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) using a specific two-incision technique over three years. The researchers found that 9.5% of patients had device-related complications and 8.5% experienced inappropriate shocks, with lead-related issues being the most frequent problems. This is important because it shows that this technique leads to few complications and effectively manages heart issues without impacting overall survival. Who this helps: This benefits patients with heart conditions who need defibrillators, as well as doctors who are implanting the devices.

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This study investigated the effects of catheter and surgical ablation for atrial fibrillation, focusing on their impact on the risk of ischemic stroke, mortality, and hospitalization for heart failure. The results showed that catheter ablation reduced the risk of ischemic stroke after 30 days by 37% and mortality by 27%, while also decreasing hospital visits for heart failure by 32%. Conversely, catheter ablation increased the immediate risk of ischemic stroke within the first 30 days, highlighting a need for caution in early follow-up. Who this helps: This helps patients with atrial fibrillation looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at the long-term effectiveness of a treatment called cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), following them for up to 8 years. It included 1,330 patients and found that 52.5% experienced a recurrence of AF or related heart issues, but only 7% progressed to permanent AF. This matters because it shows that while some patients may have recurrences, the majority do not develop more severe forms of AF, which can lead to serious health issues. Who this helps: Patients with atrial fibrillation.

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This study examined the effects of the blood thinner edoxaban in patients who have atrial fibrillation detected by medical devices, focusing on those with multiple factors that could increase their risk of stroke. Out of 2,534 patients studied, the analysis showed no clear advantage of using edoxaban compared to not using any blood thinner, with a win ratio of 0.87 and most outcomes leaning towards no significant difference in benefits vs. risks. This is important because it suggests that for these specific patients, the risks of bleeding or death may outweigh the benefits of taking this medication. Who this helps: This helps patients with device-detected atrial fibrillation and their doctors in making informed treatment decisions.

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The study looked at whether treating patients with long-lasting episodes of rapid heart rate (lasting 24 hours or more) with a blood thinner called edoxaban helps prevent strokes compared to not using the blood thinner. In this group of 2,389 patients, those treated with edoxaban experienced strokes or related events at a rate of 4.3% per year, while those who received a placebo had a rate of 6.9%. The findings indicate that the duration of the rapid heart episodes doesn't affect the effectiveness or safety of the blood thinner, highlighting the need for more research to determine which patients truly benefit from this treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with long atrial high-rate episodes and their doctors in deciding on treatment options for stroke prevention.

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This study looked at patients with a heart condition called device-detected atrial fibrillation (AF) who had either suffered a stroke or a mini-stroke (TIA) or had not. Researchers found that among those given blood-thinning medication (anticoagulation), 5.7% had experienced a serious problem like stroke, while 6.3% of those not given the medication faced the same issues. The findings show that while anticoagulation might lower the risk of stroke, it also increases the risk of serious bleeding in patients with a history of stroke or TIA. Who this helps: This helps patients with atrial fibrillation, especially those who have previously had a stroke or TIA.

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This study looked at how well blood thinners, or anticoagulants, work for people with a heart condition called device-detected atrial fibrillation (DDAF), especially comparing those with and without vascular disease, which involves issues like prior strokes or heart problems. Researchers found that for patients with vascular disease, the risk of serious health issues like strokes and heart attacks was 3.9% per year with anticoagulation compared to 5.0% without it. However, patients without vascular disease had similar outcomes whether they took anticoagulants or not. This matters because it shows that patients with DDAF and vascular disease can benefit more from anticoagulants, which helps manage their higher risk of serious complications. Who this helps: Patients with device-detected atrial fibrillation and vascular disease.

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This study looked at how well cholesterol-lowering medications were prescribed to patients who had previously experienced heart issues at two cardiac rehab centers in Italy. Out of 155 patients, most were at high risk for heart disease, with only 5.1% considered low risk. They found that many patients improved their cholesterol levels, but only 36% achieved the ideal target level for LDL cholesterol after treatment. This is important because proper cholesterol management can significantly reduce the risk of future heart problems. Who this helps: Patients recovering from heart issues and their doctors.

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This study looked at how closed loop stimulation (CLS) in pacemakers affects patients with sinus node dysfunction, specifically regarding the frequency of atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs). Over three years, the patients using CLS experienced 50.6% incidence of AHREs, while those using the conventional DDDR pacing had 55.7%. This is important because it shows that CLS can significantly reduce the occurrence of these episodes, which can lead to serious problems like stroke or heart issues. Who this helps: This benefits patients with pacemakers and sinus node dysfunction.

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This study looked at how often patients who had an unexplained stroke (called embolic stroke of undetermined source or ESUS) also had a hidden heart condition called subclinical atrial fibrillation (SCAF). Researchers found that 33% of the 109 patients monitored showed signs of SCAF after implantation of a heart monitor. The study identified specific risk factors – such as having larger left atrium size and higher body mass index – that could help pinpoint who might benefit most from this heart monitoring. Who this helps: This research helps patients who have had unexplained strokes and may need closer heart monitoring.

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This study looked at how effective and safe a procedure called cryoballoon pulmonary vein isolation (CB-PVI) is for treating atrial fibrillation (AF) in young adults compared to middle-aged adults. Researchers found that both groups had similar success rates during the procedure (about 99.9% for young patients and 99.8% for middle-aged patients) and similar rates of complications (1.9% for young and 2.3% for middle-aged). After one year, 88.9% of younger patients and 85.6% of middle-aged patients remained free from AF, and these rates were also comparable after three years. Who this helps: This information benefits both young patients with AF and their doctors by confirming the safety and effectiveness of CB-PVI for younger populations.

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This study looked at heart problems in patients who had recovered from severe COVID-19 pneumonia. Researchers found that 36% of these patients had subtle heart issues that didn't improve over the course of a year, and those issues were more likely in men and in patients with other heart risk factors. Understanding these heart risks matters because it helps to monitor and manage long-term health for COVID-19 survivors. Who this helps: This helps patients who have recovered from COVID-19, especially those with existing heart conditions.

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This study looked at how the time of year and the growth stage of farmed Nile tilapia affect their infection rates from a type of parasite called monogeneans. Researchers sampled a total of 240 fish throughout the year, finding that the highest parasite infections happened in autumn when it was cooler and drier, with 3290 parasites collected overall. Understanding these patterns helps fish farmers manage their stock better and minimize infections, which is important for keeping the fish healthy and improving farm productivity. Who this helps: This helps fish farmers and the aquaculture industry improve fish health and production.

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This study examined a condition called atrial high-rate episodes (AHRE), where the heart beats rapidly and is detected through devices like pacemakers. Researchers found that AHRE increases the risk of stroke, but the risk of having a stroke is lower compared to patients with atrial fibrillation. They emphasize the need for more studies to understand whether blood-thinning medications can safely reduce this stroke risk without causing major bleeding. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart issues, particularly older adults with AHRE.

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This study looked at people who had been hospitalized for severe COVID-19 pneumonia and noticed that many of them continued to have difficulty breathing months after they left the hospital. Out of 225 patients evaluated five months later, 51 still reported breathing problems. The study found that factors like being overweight, how long the patients were hospitalized, and certain blood test results were linked to ongoing breathing issues. Understanding these connections can help doctors identify which patients are at risk for prolonged symptoms after COVID-19. Who this helps: This helps patients recovering from COVID-19 and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at elderly patients with brief, device-detected heart rhythm issues called atrial high-rate episodes (AHREs) to see if taking the blood-thinning medication edoxaban could prevent serious cardiovascular events like strokes. Out of over 2,500 participants, those taking edoxaban experienced a slightly lower rate of major events (3.2%) compared to those taking a placebo (4.0%), but this difference wasn't significant. However, edoxaban was associated with a higher risk of severe bleeding and death (5.9% vs. 4.5% for placebo), raising safety concerns. Who this helps: This research helps doctors decide whether to prescribe blood thinners for older patients with AHREs.

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This study focused on how well isoprenaline works for patients with unstable third-degree atrioventricular block, a serious heart condition that can lead to fainting or even death. Researchers found that isoprenaline was effective for 84% of patients, compared to only 31% for dopamine, making isoprenaline a much better option. This is important because it suggests a safer and more effective treatment while waiting for a permanent pacemaker, which can significantly improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients experiencing unstable heart conditions and their doctors.

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This study examined the success and safety of removing old heart leads using special tools in patients whose leads had been in place for more than 10 years. Out of 441 leads from 189 patients, 94.8% were completely removed successfully, with only 1.8% failing to be extracted and a low complication rate of 2%. These results are important because they show that lead extraction can be done safely and effectively in older patients who need it, which can improve their health and reduce complications. Who this helps: This benefits patients with old heart leads and their doctors.

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This study looked at the outcomes of a procedure called transvenous lead extraction (TLE) in patients aged 80 and older, specifically using advanced tools to help with the process. Out of 83 patients, the procedure was successful in 93.9% of cases, with a 30-day mortality rate of 6%. The findings show that, although older patients have higher risks of complications, the extraction can be done safely and effectively using specialized methods, helping doctors make better decisions about heart device removals for this age group. Who this helps: This research benefits elderly patients with heart devices, as well as their healthcare providers.

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The study looked at how different settings on a medical tool called the ablation index (AI) affected the chances of pulmonary veins reconnecting after a procedure to treat atrial fibrillation. Researchers found that using a lower AI setting (330-450) resulted in a lower rate of immediate reconnection (4.6%) compared to a higher setting (380-500), which had a rate of 6.8%. Understanding these settings is important because it can help doctors choose the most effective approach and improve patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with atrial fibrillation by potentially leading to more successful treatment outcomes.

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This study examined the effectiveness of a specialized tool called the Evolution RL bidirectional rotational mechanical sheath for safely removing heart device leads from patients. It involved 84 patients, primarily men around 65 years old, and showed a high success rate, with 91.6% of procedures completed successfully and only 1.2% experiencing major complications. This is important because it highlights how teamwork between heart surgeons and specialists can improve patient care and outcomes, particularly for those with infections. Who this helps: This helps patients needing lead removal from heart devices, especially those with infections.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) who were monitored remotely instead of in person. Researchers found that the rate of serious heart events and deaths for these patients in 2020 was similar to 2019, with 10% experiencing incidents in both years. While there was a slight rise in deaths from 2.8% to 4.6% in 2020, this wasn't statistically significant, indicating that remote monitoring effectively maintained patient care during the pandemic. Who this helps: This research benefits patients with ICDs and their healthcare providers by showing that remote monitoring can be a reliable option during crises like a pandemic.

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This study looked at patients with Brugada syndrome who had a device called an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to prevent dangerous heart rhythms. Out of 105 patients followed for about five years after their device replacement, 10 (or 9%) experienced serious heart issues that required intervention from the ICD. The research found that patients with a specific heart rhythm pattern (an S-wave in lead I) were much more likely to have these serious events, indicating that their condition may require extra attention. Who this helps: This helps patients with Brugada syndrome and their doctors by identifying specific risks that can guide treatment.

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This study looked at how to safely remove large infections (called vegetations) from heart device leads in patients with a condition known as cardiac device-related infective endocarditis. Researchers used a technique called the AngioVac system and found that it successfully removed over 70% of the infections in 12 out of 13 patients, with only one patient experiencing a serious complication. This approach is important because it provides a safer and effective alternative to traditional surgery for patients with these large infections. Who this helps: This benefits patients with infected heart devices and their doctors.

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This study looked at what factors predict late heart rhythm problems in patients with Brugada syndrome who had a device implanted to prevent dangerous heart rhythms. The research found that specific indicators can help identify patients at higher risk for these complications. This is important because it allows doctors to monitor and manage these patients more effectively. Who this helps: This helps patients with Brugada syndrome and their doctors.

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This study looked at the process of safely removing an older type of heart pacing lead called the His bundle pacing lead, which had been in place for over 14 years. The researchers successfully extracted this lead along with two others without causing harm to the heart's electrical system. This finding is important because it shows that removing old pacing leads can be done safely, even when they are very old and difficult to extract. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and patients who may need to have old heart pacing devices removed.

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This study looked at a new method for safely removing infection-related growths around heart devices in adult patients with congenital heart disease. Researchers used a special vacuum system called AngioVac, combined with a mechanical tool for extracting leads, to successfully remove the infections. The findings indicate that this approach is effective and safe for treating these types of infections, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Who this helps: This helps patients with congenital heart disease who need treatment for infections related to their heart devices.

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This study looked at how age affects the success of a heart treatment called cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) in patients aged 75 and older. Researchers found that while 63% of patients 75 and older showed improvement a year after treatment, they had a higher death rate compared to younger groups, especially for those over 80 or with conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Overall, older patients had similar hospitalization rates as those aged 65-74, making it clear that while CRT can help many elderly patients, older age and certain health issues are important factors to consider for outcomes. Who this helps: This helps elderly patients with heart failure and their doctors in understanding treatment expectations.

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This study looked at how catheter ablation procedures were organized and conducted across 94 hospitals in Italy in 2018. Researchers found that 15,714 ablation procedures were completed, with atrial fibrillation being the most common condition treated (31% of cases). Most centers had only one lab for these procedures and at least two doctors were involved in each case, which is important for safety and effectiveness. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing heart rhythm treatments by ensuring they receive care from experienced teams in well-equipped centers.

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This study looked at the outcomes of two different approaches for patients with non-working implantable defibrillator leads: either removing the faulty lead and putting in a new traditional defibrillator (T-ICD) or leaving the lead in place and implanting a subcutaneous defibrillator (S-ICD). Out of 105 patients, those who had the S-ICD had 3 major complications compared to 11 in the T-ICD group over 21 months, showing that both options are relatively safe, but abandoning the lead and opting for an S-ICD might be a viable choice with fewer complications. This finding is important because it offers an alternative treatment option for patients facing lead malfunction without increasing risks. Who this helps: This benefits patients with malfunctioning ICD leads.

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The 2019 Italian Catheter Ablation Registry studied heart procedures known as catheter ablations across 91 hospitals in Italy. They found that out of 15,201 procedures, 88.4% were done to treat supraventricular arrhythmias, with atrial fibrillation being the most common at 32.9%. This matters because it highlights the focus on advanced techniques like 3D mapping, which increased to 67.4% of cases, leading to safer procedures with less radiation exposure. Who this helps: Patients with heart rhythm disorders.

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This study looked at how the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns affected patients with heart devices like defibrillators. Researchers found that during lockdowns, these patients were less active, which led to a significant rise in harmful heart rhythm problems; atrial arrhythmias increased during lockdowns, while ventricular arrhythmias jumped from 1.5 to 6.6 per 100 patients per week. After lockdowns ended, activity levels improved, but heart problems still didn't return to pre-lockdown levels, showing that the pandemic had a lasting negative effect on these patients' health. Who this helps: Patients with heart conditions and their doctors.

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This study looked at the factors that can lead to pocket hematomas, or bleeding under the skin, after patients receive or replace cardiac devices like pacemakers. Researchers analyzed data from 500 patients and found that 4.6% developed this complication. They discovered that patients on certain blood thinners, especially low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), had a higher risk, with 11% experiencing pocket hematomas, and certain conditions like a low heart function also increased risk. Who this helps: This information benefits patients undergoing cardiac device procedures and their doctors by guiding safer blood thinner choices.

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This study looked at a new way to perform a heart device implant called a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S-ICD) without using general anesthesia. Researchers found that using a technique called ultrasound-guided serratus anterior plane block allowed 38 patients to have the procedure done safely and effectively with only sedation, taking an average of about 67 minutes. Importantly, only one patient needed general anesthesia, showing this method could make the procedure more comfortable and accessible for patients. Who this helps: This benefits patients needing S-ICD implants by making the procedure easier and potentially safer.

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This study looked at the effects of a technology called multipoint left ventricular pacing (MPP) on patients with heart failure who received cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Researchers found that patients who had early activation of MPP (MPP-ON) experienced significantly fewer hospitalizations for heart failure and lower health care costs compared to those who did not use MPP (MPP-OFF); for example, the cost of hospitalizations was about €101 for MPP-ON versus €698 for MPP-OFF in the first year. This matters because it shows that using MPP can lead to better health outcomes and save money in treating heart failure patients. Who this helps: This helps patients with heart failure and their doctors by providing an effective treatment option that can reduce hospital visits and costs.

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This study looked at a new method for treating irregular heartbeats called atrial fibrillation (AF) using a technique called pulmonary vein isolation guided by the ablation index (AI). Researchers tracked 490 patients and found that 91% of those with occasional AF and 83.3% of those with persistent AF were free from recurring symptoms after one year. This matters because it shows that patients can have a high chance of staying symptom-free regardless of the specific tools or settings used during the treatment. Who this helps: This helps patients with atrial fibrillation looking for effective treatment options.

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This study looked at two methods for accessing the axillary vein during the implantation of heart devices: one using X-ray guidance (fluoroscopy) and the other using ultrasound. The researchers found that using ultrasound was almost equally successful (92% success) compared to fluoroscopy (91% success) but significantly reduced radiation exposure and waiting times for the procedure. Using ultrasound cut down radiation levels from 37 mGy to just 11 mGy and reduced X-ray emission time from 21 seconds to only 7 seconds, making it a safer option without increasing the overall procedure time. Who this helps: This benefits patients receiving heart devices, as it reduces their exposure to harmful radiation.

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This study focused on how doctors should use direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) for preventing strokes and treating blood clots in patients with certain heart and vein conditions. Out of 16 key topics discussed among 62 cardiologists in Italy, a strong consensus (over 66% agreement) was reached on various issues including the advantages of DOACs over traditional medications and how to manage treatment in different patient groups, such as those with cancer or kidney issues. These findings are important because they help clarify how DOACs can be used effectively in real-world situations, improving patient care. Who this helps: This helps patients with conditions like non-valvular atrial fibrillation and blood clots, as well as their doctors.

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This study looked at how mexiletine, a medication commonly used to treat muscle stiffness in people with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1), affects heart rhythm problems over several years. Researchers followed 18 patients taking mexiletine and compared them to 68 patients who weren’t taking the drug. They found that 22% of those on mexiletine experienced significant heart issues compared to 33% of those not taking it, indicating that mexiletine may be safer for heart health in these patients. Who this helps: Patients with myotonic dystrophy type 1 and their doctors.

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This study looked at a 52-year-old man who fainted while having a high fever and was later found to have COVID-19. Doctors discovered that he had lung issues related to the virus and changes in his heart’s electrical activity that returned to normal once his fever decreased. This is important because it highlights how COVID-19 can affect both the lungs and heart, increasing awareness of these complications during the illness. Who this helps: This helps patients with COVID-19 and their doctors by informing them about potential heart risks.

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This study looked at how daily exposure to fine air pollution particles is linked to atrial fibrillation (AF) in high-risk patients, like those with heart devices. The researchers found that being exposed to higher levels of these particles increased the chance of experiencing AF; specifically, a rise in pollution of 50 micrograms per cubic meter raised the risk significantly. This matters because it highlights a clear connection between air quality and heart health, emphasizing the need for cleaner air to protect vulnerable patients. Who this helps: Patients with heart conditions and their doctors.

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This study looked at how common unknown atrial fibrillation (AF) is among older adults in the Veneto Region of Italy. Researchers tested 1,820 patients aged 65 and older using a handheld device and found that 5.5% had AF, with higher rates in older patients and those with more risk factors. Specifically, 3.6% of patients aged 65-74 had unknown AF, while the rate increased to 7.5% in those 75 and older. Who this helps: This benefits elderly patients by identifying those with undiagnosed AF who may need treatment.

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This study looked at how often patients experience early return of atrial fibrillation (AF) after a procedure called cryoballoon ablation, which is used to treat this heart condition. Out of nearly 3,700 patients, 8.6% had early recurrences during a short recovery period, and those patients were much more likely to have AF come back in the long term—only about 26% of them stayed free of AF after two years, compared to nearly 65% of those without early recurrences. This is important because it helps doctors identify patients who may need more aggressive treatment if they experience early AF return after the procedure. Who this helps: Patients undergoing cryoballoon ablation for atrial fibrillation.

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This study looked at how using multipoint pacing (MPP) in patients with cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators (CRT-D) affects the battery life of these devices. Researchers found that patients who had MPP active at the time of implantation experienced a reduction in projected battery life by nearly 0.44 years, and this reduction was even greater—up to 0.71 years—when considering specific patient groups. This information is important because it helps healthcare providers understand that while MPP may improve heart function, it could also lead to needing device replacements sooner. Who this helps: This benefits patients with CRT-D devices as well as their doctors in making informed treatment decisions.

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This research looked at a new type of heart device called the subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD), which helps prevent sudden cardiac death by detecting heart rhythm problems without the need for wires inside the body. The study highlighted the S-ICD's advantages, particularly its reduced risk of complications related to traditional devices, and examined how patients are chosen for this treatment, how the device is implanted, and how it works in practice. This is important because it shows a safer option for patients with serious heart rhythm issues. Who this helps: This helps patients at risk for sudden cardiac death and their doctors.