Left atrial volume index measurement and LA strain in acute coronary syndrome patients and its correlation with outcome

Abstract

Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Echocardiographic markers of left atrial (LA) size and function may improve risk stratification. Objective: To evaluate the association of left atrial volume index (LAVI) and LA strain with clinical characteristics and 1-year adverse outcomes (major adverse cardiovascular events, MACE) in ACS. Methods: Hospital-based prospective observational study (n=50). Two-dimensional echocardiography was performed within 48 hours of admission with follow-up at 6 and 12 months. Patients were grouped by LAVI (> 34 vs. ≤ 34 mL/m2). Outcomes included cardiovascular death (primary) and MACE (secondary). Results: MACE occurred in 13/50 (26%). LAVI and LA strain were significantly associated with MACE at 6 and 12 months (both p < 0.05), while associations at presentation were not significant. Conclusion: In this cohort, follow-up measures of LAVI and LA strain were associated with MACE, suggesting potential value for monitoring after ACS; larger studies are needed to refine thresholds and confirm prognostic performance.

Keywords: Acute Coronary Syndrome; Left Atrial Volume Index; Left Atrial Strain; Speckle Tracking Echocardiography; Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events; Risk Stratification; Prognosis