Statistical analysis
Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation or numbers (percentages). Clinical characteristics of the study groups were compared using the t -test for continuous variables and Chi-square test for categorical variables. Kaplan-Meier curve analysis was performed with the log-rank test for HF hospitalization and progressive TR in both groups during the follow-up period. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses for HF hospitalization and progressive TR were performed to determine significant determinants. Multivariate Cox regression analysis included a hazard ratio (HR) < 0.100 for HF hospitalization and progressive TR in univariate Cox regression analyses. Statistical analysis was performed using statistical software (SPSS for Windows, Version 22), and a two-sided p -value of <0.05 indicated statistical significance.