BACKGROUND: This study aimed at evaluating the diagnostic and outcome prediction value of transthoracic impedance cardiography (ICG) in heart failure (HF) patients admitted for in-hospital treatment due to flare-ups of their condition.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: In total, 120 patients of intensive care units who were admitted due to HF flare-ups were involved to the study. The findings of ICG were compared to data obtained by other methods used for diagnosing HF.

RESULTS: Statistically significant (p<0.001) results were obtained when evaluating differences in ICG data between admission and discharge from the intensive care unit. In addition, a correlation was detected between brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and thoracic fluid content index (r=0.4, p<0.001). Differences in ICG values, and BNP data emerged after the participants were grouped according to NYHA classes (p<0.05). The evaluation of lethal outcome during 6 months after the discharge yielded statistically significant results: BNP ≥350 pg/mL (Odds Ratio (OR) 4.4), thoracic fluid content ≥34 1/kOhm (OR 4.3), and systolic time ratio ≥0.55 (OR 2.9), p<0.05.

CONCLUSIONS: ICG data might be applied for the diagnosis and prognosis of HF, although the links between ICG and HF need further evaluation.

Keywords: Cardiography, Impedance, Natriuretic Peptide, Brain