Frequent premature atrial contractions impair left atrial contractile function and promote adverse left atrial remodeling

Objectives This study assessed if frequent premature atrial contractions (PACs) were associated with decreased left atrial (LA) strain and adverse remodeling. Background Left atrial dysfunction and enlargement increases risk of stroke. If frequent PACs cause LA dysfunction and remodeling, PAC suppressive therapy may be beneficial. Methods Inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years and sinus rhythm. Exclusion criteria were atrial fibrillation or any etiology for LA enlargement. Hundred and thirty‐two patients with frequent PACs (≥100/24 hours) by Holter were matched to controls. Speckle tracking strain of the left atrium was performed from the 4‐chamber view. Strain measurements were LA peak contractile, reservoir and conduit strain and strain rates. Results In the frequent PAC vs control group, PACs were more frequent (1959 ± 3796 vs 28 ± 25/24 hours, P