Alisa Arunamata

All Publications

• Right Ventricular and Outflow Tract Functional Characteristics After Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot with Major Aortopulmonary Collaterals. Pediatric cardiology Long, Z. B., Punn, R., Zhang, Y., Arunamata, A. A., Asija, R., Ma, M., Hanley, F. L., McElhinney, D. B. 2024

  Abstract

  This study describes right ventricle (RV) characteristics and right ventricle to pulmonary artery (RV-PA) conduit function pre- and post-repair in patients with tetraology of Fallot with major aortopulmonary collaterals (TOF/MAPCAs). We reviewed patients who underwent single-stage, complete unifocalization, and repair of TOF/MAPCAs between 2006 and 2019 with available pre- and early postoperative echocardiograms. For a subset of patients, 6-12 month follow-up echocardiogram was available. RV and left ventricle (LV) characteristics and RV-PA conduit function were reviewed. Wilcoxon signed rank test and McNemar's test were used. 170 patients were reviewed, 46 had follow-up echocardiograms. Tricuspid valve annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) Z-scores were reduced from pre- (Z-score 0.01) to post-repair (Z-score -4.5, p < 0.001), improved but remained abnormal at follow-up (Z-score -4.0, p < 0.001). RV fractional area change (FAC) and LV ejection fraction were not significantly different before and after surgery. Conduit regurgitation was moderate or greater in 11% at discharge, increased to 65% at follow-up. RV-PA conduit failure (severe pulmonary stenosis or severe pulmonary regurgitation) was noted in 61, and 63% had dilated RV (diastolic RV area Z-score > 2) at follow-up. RV dilation correlated with the severe conduit regurgitation (p = 0.018). Longitudinal RV function was reduced after complete repair of TOF/MAPCAs, with decreased TAPSE and preserved FAC and LV ejection fraction. TAPSE improved but did not normalize at follow-up. Severe RV-PA conduit dysfunction was observed prior to discharge in 11% of patients and in 61% at follow-up. RV dilation was common at follow-up, especially in the presence of severe conduit regurgitation.

  View details for DOI 10.1007/s00246-024-03412-0

  View details for PubMedID 38360921

  View details for PubMedCentralID 6035101

• Results of the Double Switch Operation in Patients Who Previously Underwent Left Ventricular Retraining. World journal for pediatric & congenital heart surgery Mac Felmly, L., Mainwaring, R. D., Ho, D. Y., Arunamata, A., Algaze, C., Hanley, F. L. 2024: 21501351231224329

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (CC-TGA) is a complex form of congenital heart disease that has numerous subtypes. While most patients with CC-TGA have a large ventricular septal defect (VSD) and pulmonary stenosis, there are some patients who have either no VSD or a highly restrictive VSD. These patients will require left ventricular (LV) retraining prior to double switch. The purpose of this study was to review our experience with the double switch procedure in patients who had previously undergone LV retraining.METHODS: This was a retrospective review of a single institution experience with the double switch procedure in patients who had undergone LV retraining (2002-present).RESULTS: Forty-five patients underwent double switch following LV retraining. Of these, 39 had an arterial switch with hemi-Mustard/bidirectional Glenn and six had a Senning. The median cross-clamp time was 135 min (range 71-272) and median bypass time was 202 min (range 140-430 min). Median hospital length of stay was eight days (range 4-108). There were no in-hospital deaths. Median duration of follow-up was 30 months (range 0-175). One patient subsequently underwent heart transplantation and died 65 months following double switch. At follow-up, 41 of the 44 survivors (93%) have normal or low normal LV function and 40 of the 44 survivors (91%) have no or trace mitral regurgitation.CONCLUSIONS: The data demonstrate early and mid-term survival of 100% and 97%. Ninety-three percent had preserved LV function. These results suggest that patients with CC-TGA who undergo LV retraining and double switch can have excellent clinical outcomes.

  View details for DOI 10.1177/21501351231224329

  View details for PubMedID 38321756

• Maternal Diabetes and Cardiovascular Health in the Offspring. Pediatric cardiology Jodah, R., Arunamata, A., Kipps, A. K., Chen, S., Stauffer, K. J., Selamet Tierney, E. S. 2023

  Abstract

  Pulse wave velocity (PWV) has been explored to predict cardiovascular health in adults. Less is known about neonatal PWV. We evaluated the association between arterial stiffness of neonates of mothers (NoM) with diabetes and childhood health.Neonatal brachial-femoral PWV (bfPWV) was measured after birth and neonates followed for a median of 5.2 years [1 month-6.6 years]. 36 pregnant women with pregestational diabetes mellitus PGDM (n= 12), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) (n = 13), and controls (n= 11) were enrolled. Neonates were similar in weight, gestational age, and delivery mode. 26 neonates had follow-up data including weight, height and blood pressure.More mothers with PGDM had poor glycemic control compared to mothers with GDM (83% vs. 8%; p =0.0002). PWV was higher in NoM with PGDM than controls (3.4± 0.5 vs. 2.6±0.8 m/s; p= 0.04). At follow-up, children of mothers with diabetes (n= 16) had higher weight percentile (78.5 ± 27.9 vs 49.5± 34.6%; p= 0.02) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (68± 13.6 vs 57.3± 4.3mmHg; p=0.01) than controls (n = 10). No correlation emerged between neonatal PWV and childhood body mass index (BMI) or maternal HbA1c. Results suggest maternal diabetes affect neonatal arterial stiffness and childhood blood pressure; however, the mechanism is unclear. The long-term implications of these findings warrant further investigation.

  View details for DOI 10.1007/s00246-023-03333-4

  View details for PubMedID 37930377

• The development and efficacy of a paediatric cardiology fellowship online preparatory course. Cardiology in the young Motonaga, K. S., Sacks, L., Olson, I., Balasubramanian, S., Chen, S., Peng, L., Feinstein, J. A., Silverman, N. H., Hanley, F. L., Axelrod, D. M., Krawczeski, C. D., Arunamata, A., Kwiatkowski, D. M., Ceresnak, S. R. 2022: 1-6

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: The transition from residency to paediatric cardiology fellowship is challenging due to the new knowledge and technical skills required. Online learning can be an effective didactic modality that can be widely accessed by trainees. We sought to evaluate the effectiveness of a paediatric cardiology Fellowship Online Preparatory Course prior to the start of fellowship.METHODS: The Online Preparatory Course contained 18 online learning modules covering basic concepts in anatomy, auscultation, echocardiography, catheterisation, cardiovascular intensive care, electrophysiology, pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and cardiac surgery. Each online learning module included an instructional video with pre-and post-video tests. Participants completed pre- and post-Online Preparatory Course knowledge-based exams and surveys. Pre- and post-Online Preparatory Course survey and knowledge-based examination results were compared via Wilcoxon sign and paired t-tests.RESULTS: 151 incoming paediatric cardiology fellows from programmes across the USA participated in the 3 months prior to starting fellowship training between 2017 and 2019. There was significant improvement between pre- and post-video test scores for all 18 online learning modules. There was also significant improvement between pre- and post-Online Preparatory Course exam scores (PRE 43.6 ± 11% versus POST 60.3 ± 10%, p < 0.001). Comparing pre- and post-Online Preparatory Course surveys, there was a statistically significant improvement in the participants' comfort level in 35 of 36 (97%) assessment areas. Nearly all participants (98%) agreed or strongly agreed that the Online Preparatory Course was a valuable learning experience and helped alleviate some anxieties (77% agreed or strongly agreed) related to starting fellowship.CONCLUSION: An Online Preparatory Course prior to starting fellowship can provide a foundation of knowledge, decrease anxiety, and serve as an effective educational springboard for paediatric cardiology fellows.

  View details for DOI 10.1017/S1047951122003626

  View details for PubMedID 36440543

• Elucidating tricuspid Doppler signal interpolation and its implication for assessing pulmonary hypertension PULMONARY CIRCULATION Dual, S. A., Verdonk, C., Amsallem, M., Pham, J., Obasohan, C., Nataf, P., McElhinney, D. B., Arunamata, A., Kuznetsova, T., Zamanian, R., Feinstein, J. A., Marsden, A., Haddad, F. 2022; 12 (3): e12125

  Abstract

  Doppler echocardiography plays a central role in the assessment of pulmonary hypertension (PAH). We aim to improve quality assessment of systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (SPAP) by applying a cubic polynomial interpolation to digitized tricuspid regurgitation (TR) waveforms. Patients with PAH and advanced lung disease were divided into three cohorts: a derivation cohort (n = 44), a validation cohort (n = 71), an outlier cohort (n = 26), and a non-PAH cohort (n = 44). We digitized TR waveforms and analyzed normalized duration, skewness, kurtosis, and first and second derivatives of pressure. Cubic polynomial interpolation was applied to three physiology-driven phases: the isovolumic phase, ejection phase, and "shoulder" point phase. Coefficients of determination and a Bland-Altman analysis was used to assess bias between methods. The cubic polynomial interpolation of the TR waveform correlated strongly with expert read right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP) with R 2 > 0.910 in the validation cohort. The biases when compared to invasive SPAP measured within 24 h were 6.03 [4.33; 7.73], -2.94 [1.47; 4.41], and -3.11 [-4.52; -1.71] mmHg, for isovolumic, ejection, and shoulder point interpolations, respectively. In the outlier cohort with more than 30% difference between echocardiographic estimates and invasive SPAP, cubic polynomial interpolation significantly reduced underestimation of RVSP. Cubic polynomial interpolation of the TR waveform based on isovolumic or early ejection phase may improve RVSP estimates.

  View details for DOI 10.1002/pul2.12125

  View details for Web of Science ID 000843054900001

  View details for PubMedID 36016669

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC9395694

• Surgical Repair of Supravalvar Aortic Stenosis in Association With Transverse and Proximal Descending Aortic Abnormalities. World journal for pediatric & congenital heart surgery Mainwaring, R. D., Collins, R. T., Ma, M., Martin, E., Arunamata, A., Algaze-Yojay, C., Hanley, F. L. 2022; 13 (3): 353-360

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: Supravalvar aortic stenosis (SVAS) may be an isolated defect of the proximal ascending aorta. However, more severe cases have extension of the arteriopathy into the transverse and proximal descending aorta. The purpose of this study was to review our experience with SVAS with and without aortic arch arteriopathy.METHODS: This was a retrospective review of 58 patients who underwent surgical repair of SVAS. The median age at repair was 18 months. A total of 37 patients had Williams syndrome. A total of 31 (53%) patients had associated peripheral pulmonary artery stenosis and 23 (39%) had coronary artery ostial stenosis (CAOS).RESULTS: A total of 37 of 58 (64%) patients had surgical repair of SVAS without the need for arch intervention while 21 (36%) patients had repair of the distal aortic arch. There were 3 (5.2%) operative deaths, 2 of whom had aortic arch involvement and one without arch involvement. There were 2 deaths after discharge from the hospital. Patients who needed arch surgery were more likely to have severe arch gradients compared to those without arch involvement (71% vs 30%, P < .05), were more likely to undergo concomitant procedures for peripheral pulmonary artery stenosis or CAOS (90% vs 62%, P < .05), and to have Williams syndrome (86% vs 51%, P < .05).CONCLUSIONS: More than one-third of patients who had SVAS repair at our institution had procedures directed at the transverse or proximal descending aorta. Patients with arch involvement had more severe arch obstruction, required more concomitant procedures, and were more likely to have Williams syndrome.

  View details for DOI 10.1177/21501351221085975

  View details for PubMedID 35446223

• Right ventricular outflow tract anomalies: Neonatal interventions and outcomes. Seminars in perinatology Arunamata, A., Goldstein, B. H. 2022: 151583

  Abstract

  Right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) anomalies comprise a wide spectrum of congenital heart disease, typically characterized by obstruction to flow from the right ventricle to pulmonary arteries. This review highlights important considerations surrounding management strategy as well as clinical outcomes for the neonate with RVOT anomaly, including: pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum, congenital pulmonary valve stenosis, tetralogy of Fallot, and Ebstein anomaly with anatomic or physiologic RVOT obstruction.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.semperi.2022.151583

  View details for PubMedID 35422353

• Recurrent fibrovascular granulation on PhotoFix® bovine pericardium causing systemic and pulmonary venous obstruction after repair of scimitar syndrome Cardiology in the Young Taylor, N., Long, Z., Ma, M., Arunamata, A. 2021

  View details for DOI 10.1017/S1047951121000822

• Longevity of large aortic allograft conduits in Tetralogy with major aortopulmonary collaterals. The Annals of thoracic surgery Ma, M. n., Arunamata, A. n., Peng, L. F., Wise-Faberowski, L. n., Hanley, F. L., McElhinney, D. B. 2021

  Abstract

  Appropriate conduit selection for right ventricle (RV) to pulmonary artery (PA) connection has been extensively studied, with older implantation age, pulmonary (v. aortic) homografts, and true-sizing associated with increased longevity. Notably, patients with PA arborization abnormalities (ie MAPCAs) are reported to require earlier and more frequent conduit interventions. We aim to understand the behavior of large diameter aortic homografts in patients with MAPCAs, which are programmatically utilized at our institution.This is a single-center retrospective cohort study including all children < 12 years of age who underwent RV-PA connection using an aortic homograft ≥ 16mm diameter between 2002-2019, with a primary outcome of freedom from any RV-PA reintervention and a secondary outcome of freedom from surgical reintervention. Patients were grouped by absolute and indexed conduit sizes for further analysis.A total of 336 conduits were followed for a median of 3.0 years; transcatheter (n = 30) and/or surgical (n = 35) reintervention was performed on 64 conduits. Estimated freedom from reintervention and surgical replacement was 84% and 90% at 5 years. Younger age and smaller absolute conduit size were associated with earlier reintervention, but conduit z-score (median 3.5) was not assocated with outcome.The programmatic use of oversized aortic homograft RV-PA conduits in the surgical repair of MAPCAs provides a focused experience that demonstrates similar longevity to reported best alternatives. Secondarily, conduit oversizing may improve durability and enables an increased likelihood of non-operative reintervention.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2021.01.054

  View details for PubMedID 33600790

• Recent outcomes of the extracardiac Fontan procedure in patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome ANNALS OF PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY Arunamata, A., Tacy, T. A., Kache, S., Mainwaring, R. D., Ma, M., Maeda, K., Punn, R. 2020; 13 (3): 186–93

  View details for DOI 10.4103/apc.APC_5_20

  View details for Web of Science ID 000552113300002

• Recent outcomes of the extracardiac Fontan procedure in patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Annals of pediatric cardiology Arunamata, A., Tacy, T. A., Kache, S., Mainwaring, R. D., Ma, M., Maeda, K., Punn, R. 2020; 13 (3): 186-193

  Abstract

  To investigate patient-related factors, echocardiographic, and anatomic variables associated with immediate and long-term clinical outcomes after extracardiac Fontan procedure at our institution.Retrospective review of preoperative cardiac catheterizations and echocardiograms as well as medical records of all children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) who underwent Fontan between June 2002 and December 2018.Seventy-seven patients with HLHS were included (age 4 years [1.5-11.7]). Seventy patients (91%) received a nonfenestrated Fontan and 57 patients (74%) underwent Fontan without cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Presence of a Fontan fenestration (P = 0.69) and use of CPB (P = 0.79) did not differ between those with <2 weeks compared to those with ≥2 weeks of chest tube drainage. There were no differences in either pre- or intra-operative hemodynamics between patients who weighed <15 kg compared to those who weighed ≥15 kg at time of surgery; incidence of death, transplant, and transplant listing were similar between weight groups. Inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter z-score did not differ among patients with and without chylous chest tube drainage (P = 0.78), with and without development of protein losing enteropathy (P = 0.23), or death/heart transplant/transplant listing compared to survivors without transplant (P = 0.26).In HLHS patients undergoing Fontan, preoperative weight and IVC diameter appeared to have no influence on immediate postoperative outcomes. Performing the Fontan off CPB and with a fenestration also conferred no added clinical benefit. These observations should be considered when deciding optimal timing for Fontan completion.

  View details for DOI 10.4103/apc.APC_5_20

  View details for PubMedID 32863652

  View details for PubMedCentralID PMC7437630

• Impact of Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy on Heart Transplant-Free Survival in Pediatric and Congenital Heart Disease Patients. Circulation. Arrhythmia and electrophysiology Chubb, H., Rosenthal, D. N., Almond, C. S., Ceresnak, S. R., Motonaga, K. S., Arunamata, A. A., Long, J., Trela, A. V., Hanisch, D., McElhinney, D. B., Dubin, A. M. 2020

  Abstract

  Background - Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) studies in pediatric and/or congenital heart disease (CHD) patients have shown an improvement in ejection fraction and heart failure symptoms. However, a survival benefit of CRT in this population has not been established. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of CRT upon heart transplant-free survival in pediatric and CHD patients, using a propensity score-matched analysis. Methods - This single-center study compared CRT patients (implant date 2004-2017) and controls, matched by 1:1 propensity-score matching (PSM) using 21 comprehensive baseline indices for risk stratification. CRT patients were <21 years or had CHD; had systemic ventricular ejection fraction <;45%; symptomatic heart failure; and had significant electrical dyssynchrony, all prior to CRT implant. Controls were screened from non-selective imaging and ECG databases. Controls were retrospectively enrolled when they achieved the same inclusion criteria at an outpatient clinical encounter, within the same time period. Results - Of 133 patients who received CRT during the study period, 84 met all study inclusion criteria. 133 controls met all criteria at an outpatient encounter. Following PSM, 63 matched CRT-control pairs were identified with no significant difference between groups across all baseline indices. Heart transplant or death occurred in 12 (19%) PSM-CRT subjects and 37 (59%) PSM-controls with a median follow-up of 2.7 years (quartiles 0.8-6.1 years). CRT was associated with markedly reduced risk of heart transplant or death (hazard ratio 0.24 [95% CI 0.12-0.46], p<0.001). There was no CRT procedural mortality and one system infection at 54 months post-implant. Conclusions - In pediatric and CHD patients with symptomatic systolic heart failure and electrical dyssynchrony, CRT was associated with improved heart transplant-free survival.

  View details for DOI 10.1161/CIRCEP.119.007925

  View details for PubMedID 32202126

• Postoperative Recovery of Left Ventricular Function following Repair of Large Ventricular Septal Defects in Infants. Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography : official publication of the American Society of Echocardiography Adamson, G. T., Arunamata, A., Tacy, T. A., Silverman, N. H., Ma, M., Maskatia, S. A., Punn, R. 2019

  Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: Early postoperative left ventricular (LV) dysfunction is observed following repair of large ventricular septal defects (VSDs), but the frequency and rate of recovery of LV function are unknown. This study aims to characterize the incidence and rate of recovery of postoperative LV dysfunction following repair of large VSDs and to improve understanding of LV mechanics before and after VSD repair.METHODS: Infants who underwent surgical repair of an isolated large VSD were included. Pre- and postoperative echocardiographic images were reviewed, and LV function was assessed by both conventional echocardiography and speckle-tracking strain analyses. Postoperative LV dysfunction was defined as an LV ejection fraction (LVEF)<50% using the 5/6 area-length method. Echocardiograms were reviewed to assess LVEF and LV volume through 1-year follow-up.RESULTS: Of 104 infants evaluated (median age, 0.31 [0.22, 0.56] years), all had normal preoperative LVEF and 39 (38%) had postoperative LV dysfunction. Follow-up echocardiograms were available in 31 (80%) patients, all of whom had LVEF>50% within 9months of surgery. Lower preoperative apical four-chamber longitudinal strain (A4LS) and greater LV end-diastolic volume indexed to body surface area1.38 were independently associated with postoperative LV dysfunction. An absolute preoperative A4LS < 16.7% (area under the curve=0.87; 95% CI, 0.78-0.95; P<.001) was most strongly associated with postoperative dysfunction.CONCLUSIONS: Infants with LV dysfunction following repair of large VSDs recover function within 9months. Preoperative A4LS can be helpful to detect subclinical LV dysfunction in the setting of a large hemodynamically significant VSD and guide postoperative expectations for providers and families.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.echo.2019.10.003

  View details for PubMedID 31866322

• In fetuses with congenital lung masses, decreased ventricular and atrioventricular valve dimensions are associated with lesion size and clinical outcome. Prenatal diagnosis Mardy, C., Blumenfeld, Y. J., Arunamata, A. A., Girsen, A. I., Sylvester, K. G., Halabi, S., Rubesova, E., Hintz, S. R., Tacy, T. A., Maskatia, S. A. 2019

  Abstract

  INTRODUCTION: The clinical importance of mass effect from congenital lung masses on the fetal heart is unknown. We aimed to report cardiac measurements in fetuses with congenital lung masses, and correlate lung mass severity/size with cardiac dimensions and clinical outcomes.METHODS: Cases were identified from our institutional database between 2009 and 2016. We recorded: atrioventricular valve (AVVz) annulus dimensions and ventricular widths (VWz) converted into z-scores, ratio of aortic to total cardiac output (AoCO), lesion side, and congenital pulmonary airway malformation volume ratio (CVR). Respiratory intervention (RI) was defined as: intubation, ECMO use or surgical intervention prior to discharge.RESULTS: Fifty-two fetuses comprised the study cohort. Mean AVVz and VWz were below expected for gestational age. CVR correlated with ipsilateral AVVz (RS =-0.59, p<0.001) and ipsilateral VWz (-0.59, p<0.001). Lower AVVz, AoCO, and higher CVR were associated with RI. No patient had significant structural heart disease identified postnatally.CONCLUSION: In fetuses with left-sided lung masses, ipsilateral cardiac structures tend to be smaller, but in our cohort there were no patients with structural heart disease. However, smaller left-sided structures may contribute to the need for RI that affects a portion of these fetuses.

  View details for DOI 10.1002/pd.5612

  View details for PubMedID 31742724

• Left ventricular retraining in corrected transposition: Relationship between pressure and mass. The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery Mainwaring, R. D., Patrick, W. L., Arunamata, A., Chan, F., Newman, B., Rosenblatt, T. R., Kamra, K., Hanley, F. L. 2019

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: A subset of patients with corrected transposition of the great arteries (CC-TGA) will require left ventricular (LV) retraining before undergoing a double-switch procedure. LV retraining results in an immediate increase in LV pressure but not in LV mass. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between LV pressure and mass during LV retraining.METHODS: This was a retrospective review of 36 patients with CC-TGA who were enrolled in LV retraining. The median age at enrollment was 12months. The majority (82%) had an Ebstenoid tricuspid valve or moderate to severe tricuspid valve regurgitation before pulmonary artery banding.RESULTS: Twenty-seven of the 36 patients underwent LV retraining and a double switch, including 14 patients with a single pulmonary artery band (PAB), 12 patients with 2 PABs, and 1 patient with 3 PABs. There was no early or late mortality associated with these procedures. Ninety percent of the patients demonstrated a linear relationship between LV pressure and mass; however, 3 patients (10%) demonstrated a different LV retraining pattern characterized by excess LV mass compared to LV pressure. Two of these 3 patients are LV retraining failures, whereas the third patient did undergo a double switch.CONCLUSIONS: The data show that the majority of patients enrolled in LV retraining have a predictable relationship between LV mass and pressure. A minority demonstrate an excess accrual of mass with respect to pressure load. These results suggest there may be an important distinction between normal and pathological hypertrophy during the LV retraining process.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2019.10.053

  View details for PubMedID 31761342

• "Echo pause" for postoperative transthoracic echocardiographic surveillance. Echocardiography (Mount Kisco, N.Y.) Cox, K., Arunamata, A., Krawczeski, C. D., Reddy, C., Kipps, A. K., Long, J., Roth, S. J., Axelrod, D. M., Hanley, F., Shin, A., Selamet Tierney, E. S. 2019

  Abstract

  BACKGROUND: No guidelines exist for inpatient postoperative transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE) surveillance in congenital heart disease. We prospectively evaluated indications for postoperative TTEs in patients with congenital heart disease to identify areas to improve upon (Phase 1) and then assessed the impact of a simple pilot intervention (Phase 2).METHODS: We included patients with RACHS-1 (Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery) scores of 2 and 3 to keep the cohort homogenous. During Phase 1, we collected data prospectively to identify postoperative TTEs for which there were no new findings and no associated clinical management decisions ("potentially redundant" TTEs). During Phase 2, prior to placement of a TTE order, an "Echo Pause" was performed during rounds to prompt review of prior TTE results and indication for the current order. The number of "potentially redundant" TTEs during Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 was compared.RESULTS: During Phase 1, 98 postoperative TTEs were performed on 51 patients. Potentially "redundant" TTEs were identified in two main areas: (a) TTEs ordered to evaluate pericardial effusion and (b) TTEs ordered with the indication of "postoperative," "follow-up," or "discharge" in the setting of a prior complete postoperative TTE and no apparent change in clinical status. During Phase 2, 101 TTEs were performed on 63 patients. The number of "potentially redundant" TTEs decreased from 14/98 (14%) to 5/101 (5%) (P=.026).CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the number of "potentially redundant" TTEs during inpatient postoperative surveillance of patients with congenital heart disease can be decreased by a simple intervention during rounds such as an "Echo Pause."

  View details for DOI 10.1111/echo.14505

  View details for PubMedID 31628768

• Surgical results of unifocalization revision Mainwaring, R. D., Patrick, W. L., Rosenblatt, T. R., Ma, M., Kamra, K., Arunamata, A., Hanley, F. L. MOSBY-ELSEVIER. 2019: 534–44

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2018.09.135

  View details for Web of Science ID 000475496900070

• Cardiac Segmental Strain Analysis in Pediatric Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY Arunamata, A., Stringer, J., Balasubramanian, S., Tacy, T. A., Silverman, N. H., Punn, R. 2019; 32 (6): 763-+

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.echo.2019.01.014

  View details for Web of Science ID 000470058700009

• Cardiac Segmental Strain Analysis in Pediatric Left Ventricular Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy. Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography : official publication of the American Society of Echocardiography Arunamata, A. n., Stringer, J. n., Balasubramanian, S. n., Tacy, T. A., Silverman, N. H., Punn, R. n. 2019

  Abstract

  Left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC) is characterized by prominent left ventricular trabeculations, often leading to myocardial dysfunction and death or heart transplantation. Although diagnostic echocardiographic criteria exist for LVNC, segmental speckle-tracking strain patterns have not been described in pediatric LVNC. The objectives of this study were to characterize segmental noncompaction, evaluate segmental speckle-tracking strain, and characterize peak strain values in children with LVNC with adverse clinical outcomes.Echocardiographic noncompaction/compaction ratios and segmental radial, circumferential, and longitudinal strain were measured retrospectively in children with LVNC (January 2000 to June 2013). Segmental strain of the cohort was compared with that in control subjects matched by age and body surface area.One hundred one pediatric patients with LVNC were included (median age 2.8 years; range, 0-19.4 years); 71 patients survived (benign group) and 30 patients did not survive or required heart transplantation (adverse group). The adverse group was younger at diagnosis (P = .03), with lower ejection fractions (P < .0001) compared with the benign group. Both groups demonstrated increased noncompaction/compaction ratios within apical segments, with significantly increased involvement in antero- and inferolateral midpapillary segments in the adverse group (P < .005). Radial, circumferential, and longitudinal strain of nearly all left ventricular segments were significantly decreased in the adverse compared with the benign group and in pediatric LVNC patients compared with control subjects. Global radial (7.4 ± 9.7% vs 19.6 ± 16.5%, P < .0001), circumferential (-8.4 ± 7.0% vs -18.9 ± 6.9%, P < .0001), and longitudinal (-7.1 ± 5.2% vs -11.8 ± 5.3%, P < .0001) strain were all significantly decreased in the adverse group compared with the benign group.Segmental radial, circumferential, and longitudinal strain are decreased in pediatric patients with LVNC compared with control subjects and lowest in those with adverse compared with benign outcomes. LVNC appears to be a global disease affecting deformation in all regions, including compacted myocardial segments.

  View details for PubMedID 30926406

• Fetal Echocardiographic Parameters and Surgical Outcomes in Congenital Left-Sided Cardiac Lesions. Pediatric cardiology Edwards, L. A., Arunamata, A. n., Maskatia, S. A., Quirin, A. n., Bhombal, S. n., Maeda, K. n., Tacy, T. A., Punn, R. n. 2019

  Abstract

  This study aimed to evaluate fetal echocardiographic parameters associated with neonatal intervention and single-ventricle palliation (SVP) in fetuses with suspected left-sided cardiac lesions. Initial fetal echocardiograms (1/2002-1/2017) were interpreted by the contemporary fetal cardiologist as coarctation of the aorta (COA), left heart hypoplasia (LHH), hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), mitral valve hypoplasia (MVH) ± stenosis, and aortic valve hypoplasia ± stenosis (AS). The cohort comprised 68 fetuses with suspected left-sided cardiac lesions (COA n = 15, LHH n = 9, HLHS n = 39, MVH n = 1, and AS n = 4). Smaller left ventricular (LV) length Z score, aortic valve Z score, ascending aorta Z score, and aorta/pulmonary artery ratio; left-to-right shunting at the foramen ovale; and retrograde flow in the aortic arch were associated with the need for neonatal intervention (p = 0.005-0.04). Smaller mitral valve (MV) Z score, LV length Z score, aortic valve Z score, ascending aorta Z score, aorta/pulmonary artery ratio, and LV ejection fraction, as well as higher tricuspid valve-to-MV (TV/MV) ratio, right ventricular-to-LV (RV/LV) length ratio, left-to-right shunting at the foramen ovale, abnormal pulmonary vein Doppler, absence of prograde aortic flow, and retrograde flow in the aortic arch were associated with SVP (p < 0.001-0.008). The strongest independent variable associated with SVP was RV/LV length ratio (stepwise logistical regression, p = 0.03); an RV/LV length ratio > 1.28 was associated with SVP with a sensitivity of 76% and specificity of 96% (AUC 0.90, p < 0.001). A fetal RV/LV length ratio of > 1.28 may be a useful threshold for identifying fetuses requiring SVP.

  View details for DOI 10.1007/s00246-019-02155-7

  View details for PubMedID 31338561

• Surgical results of unifocalization revision. The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery Mainwaring, R. D., Patrick, W. L., Rosenblatt, T. R., Ma, M., Kamra, K., Arunamata, A., Hanley, F. L. 2018

  Abstract

  OBJECTIVE: Midline unifocalization has been developed for the surgical treatment of pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries. All patients will eventually require reoperation due to the presence of a conduit, and some may also require revision of the distal unifocalized bed. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surgical results of unifocalization revision.METHODS: This was a retrospective review of 254 patients who underwent midline unifocalization for treatment of pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect and major aortopulmonary collateral arteries. Forty-eight of 254 patients (18%) have subsequently undergone unifocalization revision. Thirty-two of these patients had previously undergone a single-stage complete repair, whereas 16 had a unifocalization and placement of a central shunt.RESULTS: For the 32 patients who previously underwent a complete repair, there have been no early or late deaths. The peak systolic pulmonary artery to aortic pressure ratio was 0.44±0.11 after the initial repair and increased to 0.82±0.18 before revision. The pressure ratio decreased to 0.41±0.09 after revision. Three of 32 patients (9%) have subsequently undergone a second unifocalization revision. The 16 patients who previously had a unifocalization/shunt underwent unifocalization revision and complete repair (n=14) and revision and repeat shunt (n=2). There was 1 operative mortality and 3 late deaths (25% total) in this cohort. Three (25%) of 12 survivors have subsequently undergone a second unifocalization revision.CONCLUSIONS: The data demonstrate that unifocalization revision can be performed with a successful outcome in a majority of patients. Patients who underwent an initial unifocalization/shunt had a higher failure rate than patients who were initially repaired.

  View details for PubMedID 30982588

• Utility of serial 12-lead electrocardiograms in children with Marfan syndrome. Cardiology in the young Arunamata, A. A., Nguyen, C. T., Ceresnak, S. R., Dubin, A. M., Olson, I. L., Murphy, D. J., Selamet Tierney, E. S. 2018: 1–5

  Abstract

  OBJECTIVES: The goal of this study was to assess the utility of serial electrocardiograms in routine follow-up of paediatric Marfan patients.METHODS: Children ⩽18 years who met the revised Ghent criteria for Marfan syndrome and received a 12-lead electrocardiogram and echocardiogram within a 3-month period were included. Controls were matched by age, body surface area, gender, race, and ethnicity, and consisted of patients assessed in clinic with a normal cardiac evaluation. Demographic, clinical, echocardiographic, and electrocardiographic data were collected.RESULTS: A total of 45 Marfan patients (10.8 [2.4-17.1] years) and 37 controls (12.8 [1.3-17.1] years) were included. Left atrial enlargement and left ventricular hypertrophy were more frequently present on 12-lead electrocardiogram of Marfan patients compared with controls (12 (27%) versus 0 (0%), p<0.001; and 8 (18%) versus 0 (0%), p=0.008, respectively); however, only two patients with left atrial enlargement on 12-lead electrocardiogram were confirmed to have left atrial enlargement by echocardiogram, and one patient had mild left ventricular hypertrophy by echocardiogram, not appreciated on 12-lead electrocardiogram. QTc interval was longer in Marfan patients compared with controls (427±16 versus 417±22 ms, p=0.03), with four Marfan patients demonstrating borderline prolonged QTc intervals for gender.CONCLUSIONS: While Marfan patients exhibited a higher frequency of left atrial enlargement and left ventricular hypertrophy on 12-lead electrocardiograms compared with controls, these findings were not supported by echocardiography. Serial 12-lead electrocardiograms in routine follow-up of asymptomatic paediatric Marfan patients may be more appropriate for a subgroup of Marfan patients only, specifically those with prolonged QTc interval at their baseline visit.

  View details for PubMedID 29972109

• Impact of Fetal Somatic Growth on Pulmonary Valve Annulus Z-Scores During Gestation and Through Birth in Patients with Tetralogy of Fallot. Pediatric cardiology Arunamata, A. n., Balasubramanian, S. n., Punn, R. n., Quirin, A. n., Tacy, T. A. 2018

  Abstract

  Previous studies have suggested reduced pulmonary valve annulus (PVA) growth and progression of pulmonary outflow obstruction in fetuses with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). The goals of this study were to (1) investigate the trajectory of PVA growth in utero, and (2) compare two methods of z-score determination for fetal and postnatal PVA size by echocardiography in order to improve prenatal counseling for patients with TOF. Fetal echocardiograms (FE) at a single institution with a diagnosis of TOF between 8/2008 and 12/2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Patients included had at least 2 FEs and 1 immediate postnatal echocardiogram (TTE). Fetal and postnatal demographic, clinical, and echocardiographic data were collected. Fetal body surface area (BSA) was calculated by estimating fetal weight and height; z-scores were determined based on fetal gestational age (GA) and BSA for both FEs and TTEs. Fetal PVA z-scores by GA or BSA were then compared to postnatal PVA z-scores by BSA. Twenty-two patients with 44 FEs and 22 TTEs were included. GA at the first FE was 23 weeks ± 3.4 and 32 weeks ± 3.1 at the second FE. There was no difference in PVA z-scores (by BSA) between the first and second FE (p = 0.34), but a decrease in PVA z-scores (by BSA) between the second FE and TTE (- 1.6 ± 0.5 vs. - 2.0 ± 0.7; p = 0.01). Repeat comparison with fetal PVA z-scores indexed to GA revealed no difference in z-scores between the first and second FE, but an increase in PVA z-scores between the second FE (by GA) and TTE (by BSA) (- 4.1 ± 1.0 vs. - 2.0 ± 0.7; p < 0.0001). The rate of PVA growth between the two FEs (23 µm/day ± 9.8) and between the second FE and TTE (28 µm/day ± 42) remained comparable (p = 0.57); however, the rate of BSA increase was greater in later gestation (9 cm2/day ± 3 vs. 20 cm2/day ± 11; p = 0.001). In patients with TOF, the rate of PVA growth appears to remain consistent through gestation; however, somatic growth rate increases in late gestation. Fetal PVA z-scores indexed to GA are thus inaccurate in predicting postnatal PVA z-scores typically indexed to BSA. This observation should be considered during prenatal consultation and delivery planning.

  View details for PubMedID 29632959

• Maternal Arterial Stiffness and Fetal Cardiovascular Physiology in Diabetic Pregnancies. Ultrasound in obstetrics & gynecology Moodley, S., Arunamata, A., Stauffer, K. J., Nourse, S. E., Chen, A., Quirin, A., Selamet Tierney, E. S. 2017

  Abstract

  In mothers with pre-gestational or gestational diabetes, abnormal arterial stiffness (stiffer arteries) has been reported. The impact of abnormal maternal arterial stiffness on fetal placental and cardiovascular physiology is unknown. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of maternal diabetes on maternal arterial stiffness and the association with fetal cardiovascular physiology as measured by fetal echocardiography.Between December 2013 and January 2017 we conducted a prospective study on diabetic (otherwise healthy) and non-diabetic, healthy pregnant mothers (at 20-28 gestational weeks and 18-40 years of age) who had a normal fetal cardiac echocardiogram and obstetric ultrasound. Clinical data were collected by means of a patient questionnaire, measurement of blood pressure, height and weight, arterial augmentation index and fetal placental and cardiovascular parameters by fetal echocardiography. Descriptive statistics were calculated. Comparisons were made using parametric and non-parametric tests between controls and diabetic mothers.Twenty-three healthy pregnant controls and 43 diabetic pregnant women (n = 22 pre-gestational, n = 21 gestational) were included in the study. Maternal arterial augmentation index was higher in those with diabetes compared to healthy controls (12.4 ± 10.6% versus 4.6 ± 7.9%; p = 0.003). Fetal aortic valve velocity time integral was higher in fetuses whose mothers had diabetes compared to non-diabetic mothers (7.7 ± 1.9 cm versus 6.3 ± 2.9 cm; p = 0.022). Left ventricular myocardial performance index was lower in diabetic pregnancies compared to controls (0.40 ± 0.09 versus; 0.46 ± 0.11 p = 0.02). Umbilical artery resistance index was lower in diabetic pregnancies with hemoglobin A1C levels ≥6.5% compared to those with HbA1c levels <6.5 (HbA1c ≥6.5%: 0.69 ± 0.06, n = 15 versus HbA1c <6.5%: 0.76 ± 0.08, n = 21; p = 0.009) but not at higher HbA1C cut-offs. A correlation between arterial augmentation index and velocity time integral, myocardial performance index or umbilical artery resistance index was not found.Arterial stiffness is higher in pregnant women with diabetes compared to controls. Fetuses of diabetic mothers show altered cardiovascular parameters with higher velocity time integral and lower left ventricular myocardial performance index, markers of myocardial function. Placental function assessed by umbilical artery resistance was normal despite differences between groups. Arterial stiffness did not correlate with placental or fetal cardiovascular variables. Instead, the findings likely represent a shared response to the environment of abnormal glucose metabolism. The clinical significance of these findings is yet to be determined.

  View details for DOI 10.1002/uog.17528

  View details for PubMedID 28508434

• Right-Dominant Unbalanced Atrioventricular Septal Defect: Echocardiography in Surgical Decision Making. Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography Arunamata, A., Balasubramanian, S., Mainwaring, R., Maeda, K., Selamet Tierney, E. S. 2017; 30 (3): 216-226

  Abstract

  Management of right-dominant atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) remains a challenge given the spectrum of ventricular hypoplasia. The purpose of this study was to assess whether reported echocardiographic indices and additional measurements were associated with operative strategy in right-dominant AVSD.A blinded observer retrospectively reviewed preoperative echocardiograms of patients who underwent surgery for right-dominant AVSD (January 2000 to July 2013). Ventricular dimensions, atrioventricular valve index (AVVI; left valve area/right valve area), and right ventricular (RV)/left ventricular (RV/LV) inflow angle were measured. A second observer measured a subset of studies to assess agreement. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to examine the relationship between ventricular septal defect size (indexed to body surface area) and RV/LV inflow angle in systole. A separate validation cohort was identified using the same methodology (August 2013 to July 2016).Of 46 patients with right-dominant AVSD (median age, 1 day; range, 0-11 months), overall survival was 76% at 7 years. Twenty-eight patients (61%) underwent single-ventricle palliation and had smaller LV dimensions and volumes, AVVIs (P = .005), and RV/LV inflow angles in systole (P = .007) compared with those who underwent biventricular operations. Three patients undergoing biventricular operations underwent transplantation or died and had lower indexed LV end-diastolic volumes compared with the remaining patients (P = .005). Interobserver agreement for the measured echocardiographic indices was good (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.70-0.95). Ventricular septal defect size and RV/LV inflow angle in systole had a strong negative correlation (r = -0.7, P < .001). In the validation cohort (n = 12), RV/LV inflow angle in systole ≤ 114° yielded sensitivity of 100% and AVVI ≤ 0.70 yielded sensitivity of 88% for single-ventricle palliation.Mortality remains high among patients with right-dominant AVSD. RV/LV inflow angle in systole and AVVI are reproducible measurements that may be used in conjunction with several echocardiographic parameters to support suitability for a biventricular operation in right-dominant AVSD.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.echo.2016.10.017

  View details for PubMedID 27939051

• Practice Patterns in Postoperative Echocardiographic Surveillance after Congenital Heart Surgery in Children: A Single Center Experience JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS Arunamata, A., Axelrod, D. M., Kipps, A. K., McElhinney, D. B., Shin, A. Y., Hanley, F. L., Olson, I. L., Roth, S. J., Tierney, E. S. 2017; 180: 87-?

  Abstract

  To review current institutional practice and describe factors contributing to variation in inpatient postoperative imaging surveillance after congenital heart surgery.We reviewed records of all children who underwent congenital heart surgery from June to December 2014. Number and primary indications for postoperative transthoracic echocardiograms (TTEs), providers involved, cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU) and total hospital length of stay, and Risk-Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery-1 scores were recorded.A total of 253 children (age at surgery: 8 months [2 days-19 years]) received 556 postoperative TTEs (median 1 TTE/patient [1-14]), and 23% had ≥3 TTEs. Fifteen of 556 TTEs (2.7%) revealed a new abnormal finding. The majority of TTEs (59%) were performed in the CVICU (1.5 ± 1.1 TTEs/week/patient), with evaluation of function as the most common indication (44%). Attending physician practice >10 years was not associated with fewer TTEs (P = .12). Patients with ≥3 TTEs had higher Risk-Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery-1 scores (P = .001), longer CVICU lengths of stay (22 vs 3 days; P < .0001), longer overall hospitalizations (28 vs 7 days; P < .0001), and a higher incidence of mechanical circulatory support (10% vs 0%; P < .0001) than those with <3 TTEs. Eight patients with ≥3 TTEs did not survive, compared with 3 with <3 TTEs (P = .0004).There was wide intra-institutional variation in echocardiographic use among similar complexity surgeries. Frequency of postoperative echocardiographic surveillance was associated with degree of surgical complexity and severity of postoperative clinical condition. Few studies revealed new abnormal findings. These results may help establish evidence-based guidelines for inpatient echocardiographic surveillance after congenital heart surgery.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.jpeds.2016.09.061

  View details for Web of Science ID 000390028100018

• Decompressing vein and bilateral superior venae cavae in a patient with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Echocardiography (Mount Kisco, N.Y.) Stauffer, K. J., Arunamata, A., Vasanawala, S. S., Behera, S. K., Kipps, A. K., Silverman, N. H. 2016; 33 (9): 1428-1431

  Abstract

  The levoatrial cardinal vein (LACV), first described in 1926, acts as a decompressing vessel for pulmonary venous return in cases of severe left-sided obstruction with an intact or significantly restrictive atrial septum. The LACV and the persistent left superior vena cava (LSVC) are thought to share similar embryologic origins. To challenge this notion, we present a unique case of a neonate with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, cor triatriatum, and a decompressing LACV in the presence of bilateral superior venae cavae.

  View details for DOI 10.1111/echo.13292

  View details for PubMedID 27641733

• Diagnosis of Anomalous Aortic Origin of the Left Coronary Artery in a Pediatric Patient. World journal for pediatric & congenital heart surgery Arunamata, A., Buccola Stauffer, K. J., Punn, R., Chan, F. P., Maeda, K., Balasubramanian, S. 2015; 6 (3): 470-473

  Abstract

  Anomalous aortic origin of the left coronary artery is rare and confers increased risk of sudden cardiac death. Accurate diagnosis is crucial and often requires many diagnostic modalities. This case report highlights the echocardiographic characteristics and pitfalls in diagnosing the anomaly in addition to the advantages of using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in a pediatric patient.

  View details for DOI 10.1177/2150135114558689

  View details for PubMedID 26180168

• Isolation of the right subclavian artery in a patient with d-transposition of the great arteries. Annals of pediatric cardiology Arunamata, A., Perry, S. B., Kipps, A. K., Vasanawala, S. S., Axelrod, D. M. 2015; 8 (2): 161-163

  Abstract

  Isolation of the right subclavian artery (RSCA) is rare, and this finding in association with d-transposition of the great arteries (d-TGA) is extremely unusual. We present a case of an isolated RSCA in a newborn with d-TGA in whom the clinical presentation was diagnostic. We discuss the imaging modalities used to confirm the diagnosis, the embryological basis of the finding, and the surgical repair.

  View details for DOI 10.4103/0974-2069.154154

  View details for PubMedID 26085773

• Echocardiographic Measures Associated With Early Postsurgical Myocardial Dysfunction in Pediatric Patients With Mitral Valve Regurgitation JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY Arunamata, A., Tierney, E. S., Tacy, T. A., Punn, R. 2015; 28 (3): 284-293

  Abstract

  The assessment of left ventricular (LV) systolic function using conventional echocardiographic measures is problematic in the setting of mitral regurgitation (MR) given that altered loading conditions can mask underlying ventricular dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to characterize LV function and deformation before and after effective mitral valve repair or replacement to determine echocardiographic measures associated with early postoperative myocardial dysfunction.Baseline LV function was assessed retrospectively by conventional echocardiography and speckle-tracking strain analysis pre- and postoperatively in patients diagnosed with MR between January 2000 and March 2013, excluding patients with less than mild to moderate MR preoperatively, left-sided obstructive lesions, large septal defects, or more than mild MR postoperatively.Forty-six pediatric patients were evaluated (average age, 8.2 ± 6.4 years). Thirteen patients had normal preoperative ejection fractions but significant postoperative dysfunction (defined as an ejection fraction < 50%). Compared with the 33 patients with normal postoperative function, age (11.5 ± 7.1 vs 7.3 ± 5.7 years, P = .04), global circumferential strain (-13.2 ± 5.6% vs -17.1 ± 4.6%, P = .02), and global circumferential strain rate (-0.94 ± 0.40 vs -1.36 ± 0.42 sec(-1), P = .004) were found to be statistically different. Using receiver operating characteristic curves, an older preoperative age (area under the curve, 0.67; P = .03), lower global circumferential strain magnitude (area under the curve, 0.74; P = .007), and lower global circumferential strain rate magnitude (area under the curve, 0.80; P = .0004) were determined to be factors associated with early postoperative LV dysfunction after surgical repair of MR.Strain measurements may be useful as part of the echocardiographic assessment of patients with MR and can guide timing for surgical repair in the pediatric population.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.echo.2014.11.010

  View details for Web of Science ID 000352144400004

  View details for PubMedID 25555521

• Echocardiographic Diagnosis and Prognosis of Fetal Left Ventricular Noncompaction JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY Arunamata, A., Punn, R., Cuneo, B., Bharati, S., Silverman, N. H. 2012; 25 (1): 112-120

  Abstract

  Left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) has rarely been described in the fetus.The presence of associated congenital heart disease and rhythm disturbance was identified and the presence of heart failure was assessed using the cardiovascular profile score in all fetuses with LVNC presenting from January 1999 to July 2010. The left ventricle was divided into 12 segments-four segments each at the base, midpapillary, and apical regions-in the short-axis view to calculate the noncompaction/compaction ratio for each segment.Of 24 fetuses with LVNC included in the study, 22 had significant congenital heart disease, and 15 had complete heart block. Of the 16 patients with adequate follow-up and not electively terminated, 12 (81%) died or progressed to heart transplantation. The average noncompaction/compaction ratios were 2.02 in patients who died or underwent heart transplantation and 1.67 in survivors (P = .2034). Fifty-seven of 93 measured segments (61%) of the left ventricle in the patients who died or underwent heart transplantation had noncompaction/compaction ratios ≥ 2 compared with five of 17 measured segments (29%) in survivors (P = .0837). The average cardiovascular profile score was 6. The apical region had greater involvement of noncompaction than the midpapillary and basal regions, with ratios of 2.27, 2.14, and 1.10, respectively (P = .00035).Fetuses with LVNC have a poor prognosis that may be related to associated congenital heart disease, increased segmental involvement of noncompaction, and complete heart block and can be predicted by the cardiovascular profile score.

  View details for DOI 10.1016/j.echo.2011.09.019

  View details for Web of Science ID 000298276500013

  View details for PubMedID 22014428

• Endometrial Osseous Metaplasia Mimicking Retained Intrauterine Device A Case Report JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE Tsai, M. C., Arunamata, A., Tristan, S., Randall, H. W. 2008; 53 (11): 877-880

  Abstract

  Osseous metaplasia of the endometrium is a rare disorder and can be associated with infertility. Although successful diagnosis and treatment have been widely reported, correct diagnosis in many cases still represents a challenge.A 40-year-old woman complaining of infertility presented with a diagnosis of retained intrauterine device (IUD) on ultrasound. Hysteroscopy revealed a normal endometrial cavity, but no IUD was visualized. Curettage pathology specimens showed chronic endometritis and calcification. Repeat hysteroscopy was performed because of persistent echogenic foci in the endometrium on follow-up ultrasound. Several irregular and calcified plaques were successfully removed.Osseous metaplasia can be misdiagnosed because of its rare incidence. Physicians should be aware of osseous metaplasia in the differential diagnosis of patients with uncertain history who present with a sonographic image resembling an IUD.

  View details for Web of Science ID 000261222000012

  View details for PubMedID 19097523

• Chronic antepartum maternal hyperoxygenation in a case of severe fetal Ebstein's anomaly with circular shunt physiology. Annals of pediatric cardiology Arunamata, A. n., Axelrod, D. M., Bianco, K. n., Balasubramanian, S. n., Quirin, A. n., Tacy, T. A. ; 10 (3): 284–87

  Abstract

  Perinatal mortality remains high among fetuses diagnosed with Ebstein's anomaly of the tricuspid valve. The subgroup of patients with pulmonary valve regurgitation is at particularly high risk. In the setting of pulmonary valve regurgitation, early constriction of the ductus arteriosus may be a novel perinatal management strategy to reduce systemic steal resulting from circular shunt physiology. We report the use of chronic antepartum maternal oxygen therapy for constriction of the fetal ductus arteriosus and modulation of fetal pulmonary vascular resistance in a late presentation of Ebstein's anomaly with severe tricuspid valve regurgitation, reversal of flow in the ductus arteriosus, and continuous pulmonary valve regurgitation.

  View details for PubMedID 28928616