Is the E/Vp index useful for evaluating prognosis in chronic heart failure with atrial fibrillation? A pilot study

Abstract

BackgroundThe ratio of transmitral peak E wave velocity to color flow propagation velocity (E/V
p index) has proved to be a significant predictor of prognosis in cardiac diseases with sinus rhythm. However, its usefulness
in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure has not yet been established. The aim of this study was to determine
the feasibility of using the E/V
p index for the prediction of mortality and heart failure hospitalization in this group.

MethodsWe studied 66 ambulatory patients with stable congestive heart failure (CHF) functional class I–III and AF. Patients were
divided into group A and B according to an E/V
p index <1.5 and ≥1.5, respectively.

ResultsDuring follow-up (average 430days) events were more common in group B (75 vs. 17%, log rank test; hazard ratio (HR) =6.8).
By means of multivariate logistic regression analysis, E/V
p proved to be an independent predictor of events (p=0.0012).

ConclusionsIn our patients with stable CHF and AF the E/V
p index is a significant predictor of clinical outcome.

KeywordsPrognosis-Heart failure-Atrial fibrillation-Echocardiography