bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the REVEAL 2.0 simplified three-category model in a pulmonary arterial hypertension cohort enriched with congenital heart disease
Authors: Yaylali Y.T , Yagmur B , Kilickiran Avci B , Sinan U.Y , Senol H , Nalbantgil S , Kucukoglu M.S , Ongen Z
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Despite a remarkable progress in the management of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) over the past decade, PAH still has a poor long-term outlook and remains an incurable condition. Risk assessment continues to be refined to identify patients at risk of early morbidity and mortality. We aimed to evaluate a new model, the US Registry to Evaluate Early and Long-Term PAH Disease Management (REVEAL) 2.0 risk score proposed for the follow-up of patients in our cohort.

Methods

We enrolled a mixed prevalent and incident cohort of patients with idiopathic PAH (20%), heritable (2.5%), congenital heart disease (CHD) (59.2%), and connective tissue diseases (18.3%) subsets (n=121) from 4 PAH centers from March 2007 to January 2019. Individual patient REVEAL 2.0 risk scores were applied at 12 months after the diagnosis (follow-up). Risk scores were calculated with 7 or more variables. Kaplan-Meier survival was estimated for a simplified three-category (low, intermediate, and high risk) model up to 60 months from 1 year after the diagnosis, with all-cause mortality as the end point. Log-rank test was used to compare estimates.

Results

The mean age was 46±16 years (78.5% women). 2/3 of the patients were CHD. The median survival was 60 months. 25 patients had died. The majority of the patients were NYHA FC II (48.8%) and III (42.1%) at follow-up. Figure 1 demonstrates KM 12- and 60- month survival in our cohort according to the simplified three-category (low, intermediate, and high risk) REVEAL 2.0 model. Overall, 58.7%, 15.7%, and 25.6% of the patients were classified as low, intermediate, and high risk, respectively, at follow-up. The REVEAL 2.0 model effectively discriminated risk in our cohort. Both 1 year- and 5 year-survival differed significantly between the 3 risk categories: 12-month mortality estimates were 1.41% for low risk, 5.3% for intermediate risk, and 16.1% for high risk (log-rank, P=0.013); and 60- month mortality estimates were 2.8% for low risk, 10.5% for intermediate risk, and 51.6% for high risk (log-rank, P=0.0001).

Conclusions

The REVEAL 2.0 simplified three-category model can be applied for risk assessment of the PAH subsets, particularly congenital heart disease at follow-up.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Aortic tortuosity index as a predictor of type A aortic dissection
Authors: Scalbert F , Milleron O , Para M , Raffoul R , Pellenc Q , Alkhoder S , Rouzet F , Nataf P , Ou P , Jondeau G
Published: November 2020

Introduction

The risk ok type A aortic dissection (AAD) depends on the degree of aortic wall's alteration, which can result in dilatation or tortuosity. The estimate of this risk relies solely on the evaluation of the diameter of the ascending aorta.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the presence and importance of aortic tortuosity in patients with type A aortic dissection.

Method

Postoperative CT scans of patients with type A aortic dissection were compared with CT scans from controls matched for gender and age. After 3D reconstruction, total length (actual distance along aortic center line = Ltot) and geometric length (length of a straight line between start and end of the aortic segment = Lgeo) were measured to calculate the tortuosity index (TI = Ltot / Lgeo).

Results

Ltot, Lgeo and TI from different aortic segments of the AAD group were higher than in the control group. Ltot and TI of the whole aorta (from aortic valve to bifurcation) were greater in patients with type A aortic dissection (527.7±46.1 mm vs. 475.8±39.7, p<0.0001; and 2.05±0.24 vs. 1.98±0.21, p=0.002 respectively). Total length and TI were greater after exclusion of the ascending part, and a value of this TI >1.3 identifies AAD patients with an accuracy of 74.8% (AUC = 0.792, p<0.0001). TI is altered by risk factors for aortic dissection: it increases with hypertension and age but not by tobacco use, and TI decreases in diabetes.

Conclusions

Type A aortic dissection is associated with longer aorta and increased aortic tortuosity. This index may help recognize patients at risk for type A aortic dissection.

Calculation of tortuosity indexes

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Bicuspid aortic valve disease associates with abnormal wall shear stress, viscous energy loss, and pressure drop within the ascending thoracic aorta
Authors: Geeraert P , Jamalidinan F , Bristow M , Lydell C , Howarth A.G , Fedak P.W.M , White J.A , Garcia J
Published: November 2020

Introduction

We use 4D Flow MRI to (1) investigate the effects of bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) disease on downstream pressure drop (PD), wall shear stress (WSS), and viscous energy loss (EL) in the ascending aorta (AAo) and (2) explore the associations between AAo diameter and PD, WSS, and EL.

Hypothesis

BAV patients show increased PD, WSS, and EL in the AAo compared to age-matched controls

Methods

32 healthy controls (41±15 y, 10 female) and 53 BAV patients (44±16 y, 19 female) underwent cardiac MRI at 3T, inclusive of cine imaging and 4D flow. Cross sections were placed along segmented aortas at the: left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT), sinuses of Valsalva (SOV), mid-ascending aorta (MAA), and proximal to first aortic branch (AA1). Locations were analyzed for (i) net flow, (ii) aortic diameter (normalized to BSA), (iii) systolic PD (referenced to LVOT), (iv) systolic EL (measured within LVOT-AA1 volume and normalized by LVOT net flow; mW/mL), and (v) systolic WSS. Sub-vectors of WSS, axial (WSSax) and circumferential (WSScirc), were also analyzed.

Results

In comparison to controls, BAV patients showed greater PD (e.g. MAA: 9.5±8.0 vs. 2.8±2.4mmHg; p<0.01), EL (0.09±0.05 vs. 0.04±0.01 mW/mL; p≤0.01), and WSScirc (e.g. MAA: 0.3±0.1 vs. 0.2±0.06 Pa; p≤0.01) throughout the AAo (Table 1 and Fig. 1). BAV patients exhibited significantly lower WSS and WSSax only at the SOV. In univariate analyses, AAo diameter was inversely correlated with WSS (R=−0.32, p<0.01) and WSSax (R=−0.51, p≤0.01). In multivariate analyses, AAo diameter was associated with WSS (β=−0.36, p<0.01) and WSSax (β=−0.26, p<0.01).

Conclusions

BAV patients demonstrate significantly increased PD, EL, and WSScirc in the AAo, and an inverse association between AAo diameter and WSS measures.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Alberta Health Services
Arterial wall stiffness in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms and concomitant coronary artery disease
Authors: Ikonomidis I , Rafouli-Stergiou P , Katsiki N , Kadoglou N , Vlachos S , Thymis J , Parissis J , Moulakakis K , Kakisis J
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Pulse wave velocity (PWV) is a valid, clinically feasible marker of arterial stiffening, and a strong predictor of outcomes. In patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) alterations in arterial wall composition and inflammation were proposed as possible contributors to increased arterial stiffness.

Purpose

The present study aimed to compare aortic elastic properties in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA), with or without coronary artery disease (CAD), as well as healthy individuals.

Methods

A total of 130 patients with AAA, eligible for interventional repair, and 30 healthy individuals, comprising the control group (HC), were evaluated. Study groups did not differ in anthropometrical characteristics and CV risk factors. Presence of CAD was identified by coronary angiography. Aortic PWV (aPWV) was measured using the Arteriograph method.

Results

aPWV was found considerably higher in AAA patients compared to HC group (11.5±2.9 vs. 7.3±1.6 m/s, p<0.001), after adjustment for age, sex and mean arterial pressure (MAP). Interestingly, among patients with AAA, those with concomitant CAD (n=41) had higher aPWV than those without CAD (12.5±2.9 vs. 11.0±3.0 m/s, p=0.03), after adjustment for age, sex and MAP. In receiver-operator-curve (ROC) analysis, the area under the curve (AUC) of aPWV for the prediction of CAD presence in the AAA study group was 0.72 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.55–0.84, p=0.03]. According to this, the best cut-off was a value of aPWV above 12.8 m/s (78% sensitivity and 73% specificity). This cut-off was identified as a significant predictor of CAD presence in the AAA study population according to univariate logistic regression analysis (OR=2.51, 95% CI: 1.79–5.19, p=0.02). After adjustment for age, sex, dyslipidemia, smoking and MAP in multivariate logistic regression analysis, the cut-off aPWV level remained independently associated with the presence of CAD (OR=1.64, 95% CI: 1.19–4.08, p=0.03).

Conclusion

The co-existence of CAD and AAA is characterized by a greater arterial stiffness. This finding supports a role of measuring arterial stiffness markers when evaluating AAA patients' cardiovascular risk and selecting endovascular stents with more favorable elastic properties. Further studies are needed to explore whether aPWV values could be used to as a screening tool to detect CAD or to guide treatment in AAA patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Prevalence, specialized ambulatory care and guideline-recommended therapy of peripheral vascular diseases in Germany
Authors: Rammos C , Petrikhovich O , Mahabadi A , Steinmetz M , Lortz J , Hering R , Schulz M , Rassaf T
Published: November 2020

Background

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of death in the industrialized world. In addition to coronary heart disease, PAD defines morbidity and is associated with increased mortality. Guideline-recommended therapy and specialized ambulatory care is essential for optimal treatment. Knowledge of the treatment structures, contact with dedicated specialists and pharmacotherapy in the outpatient area are essential for improving treatment, reducing symptoms and finally improve mortality in this high-risk population.

Methods

The study is based on the ambulatory claims data of the panel doctors services according to § 295 SGB V and drug prescription data according to § 300 SGB V. The prevalence of PAD in Germany (medical diagnoses of PAD ICD I70.2–9) was analyzed by age and gender-specific characteristics with a timeframe of 10 years (2009–2018). In addition, the current ambulatory care structure was examined subdivided by vascular specialist (vascular surgeons or angiologists) and primary care physicians (internal medicine or general practitioners). Additionally, the prescription of guideline-recommended pharmacotherapy like statins and antiplatelet inhibitors was analyzed for the years 2009–2016.

Results

An increase of PAD diagnosis was observed with a maximum in 2018 with 2.280.000 patients in Germany. The rise of PAD patients strongly correlates with increased age (age group 50–59: 243.000, age group 60–69: 533.000, age group 70–79: 735.000, age group 75–79: 438.000, age group 80–89: 710.000) and more commonly affects males (55%) than females (45%). Access to vascular specialist was low for all age groups with only 11% of patients receiving care from vascular surgeons and only 9% from angiologists. However, 99% received care by a primary care physician.

The prescription of lipid-lowering drugs and platelet aggregation inhibitors in the current analysis period from 2009–2016 is insufficient, with only 46% receiving statins and 29% receiving antiplatelets and 15% oral anticoagulation,

Conclusion

There are relevant differences in age and gender-specific prevalence of PAD in Germany. In addition to the regular care provided by primary care physicians, PAD patients are in need for specialized vascular care. Guideline recommended prescriptions are alarmingly low in PAD patients. There is a clear need to improve the treatment algorithms in the high-risk PAD population.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
The impact of hyperuricemia on all patients and low-BMI patients after endovascular treatments: from I-PAD registry
Authors: Nagae A , Kato T , Ebisawa S , Saigusa T , Okada A , Motoki H , Kuwahara K
Published: November 2020

Background

Hyperuricemia (≥7.0 mg / dl) is known to be one of the risks of arteriosclerosis. For a long time, it has been said that metabolic syndrome and high-BMI has been implicated to hyperuricemia and also that it's a consequence of those patient background, not a cause of arteriosclerosis. Now, the accumulation of data about hyperurisemia is still not enough. Also the importance of secondary prevention for patients after endovascular treatment (EVT) is still unclear too.

Purpose

To investigate the impact of hyperuricemia on prognosis of all patients and low-BMI patients after EVT.

Methods

From July 2015 to July 2016, 335 consecutive PAD patients who performed EVT were enrolled in I-PAD registry. And we divided them into 2 groups; with hyperuricemia or not, and analyzed them. In addition to that, among them, we selected 245 low-BMI patients (<25) and divided them into 2 groups; with hyperuricemia or not, and analyzed them. The primary end point was all-cause-death and the secondary endpoint was MACLE (Major Adverse Cardiovascular and limbs Events) at 3-years.

Result

At 3 years in the patients group with hyperuricemia, overall survival and freedom from MACLE were significantly lower (57.7% vs 83.4% P=0.0012; 30.3% vs 68.6% P=0.0095) than the group without hyperuricemia. Even among the low-BMI patients, in the patients with hyperuricemia, overall survival and freedom from MACLE were significantly lower (55.2% vs 77.1% P=0.003; 48.2% vs 69.9% P=0.002) than the patients without hyperuricemia at 3 years.

Conclusion

In this study, the prognosis of patients after EVT with hyperuricemia was worse than the patient without. And even among the low-BMI patients, The prognosis after EVT with hyperuricemia was worse than the patient without.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Prognosis and cause of death in patients with left atrial appendage thrombus treated with or without anticoagulation therapy
Authors: Kagawa E , Kato M , Oda N , Kunita E , Nagai M , Yamane A , Kobayashi Y , Shiota H , Osawa A , Kobatake H , Takeuchi M , Dote K
Published: November 2020

Background

Thrombus in left atrial appendage (LAA) is associated with cardiogenic ischemic stroke; however, little is known about prognosis of patients with LAA thrombus detected by transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE).

Purpose

This study is to investigate the prognosis of patients with LAA thrombus and their cause of death.

Methods

Between 2005 and 2016, the patients who were performed TOE in our hospital were enrolled in this retrospective observational study. Five-year stroke free and survival curves were constructed by Kaplan-Meir method and cause of death were assessed.

Results

Among the 1263 study patients, LAA thrombus was detected in 146 (12%) patients. The patients with LAA thrombus were elder (74 y [66–79 y] vs. 70 y [62–76 y], P<0.001), than those without LAA thrombus, respectively. The prevalence of male sex (67% vs. 69%, P=0.63) were similar between the 2 groups. The prevalence of CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥2, d-dimer (1.7 mcg/ml [0.9–3.5 mcg/ml] vs. 0.8 mcg/ml [0.5–2.2 mcg/ml], P<0.001), and plasma brain natriuretic peptide (315 pg/ml [128–515 pg/ml] vs. 126 pg/ml [47–284 pg/ml], P<0.001) were higher in the patients with LAA thrombus than those without (89% vs. 78%, P=0.003). The LAA velocity was slower in the patients with LAA thrombus than those without (23 cm/s [15–34 cm/s] vs. 51 cm/s [35–72 cm/s], P<0.001). The prevalence of receiving anticoagulation therapy before (34% vs. 24%, P=0.01) and after (98% vs. 66%, P<0.001) TOE 1 month were higher in the patients with LAA thrombus than those without. The 5-year stroke free rate was lower in the patients with LAA thrombus than those without (82% vs. 93%, P<0.001); however, the 5-year survival were similar between the 2 groups (84% vs. 84%, P=0.93) (Figure). The cause of death as ischemic stroke was only 7% (1/14) and 3% (3/94), (P=0.43); the cardiac cause (14% vs. 43%, P=0.07) and the malignancy (35% vs. 29%, P=0.75) were the frequent cause of death in the patient with LAA thrombus and those without, respectively.

Conclusions

The patients who were detected thrombus in the LAA had higher incidence of ischemic stroke; however, the 5-y survival were similar. The ischemic stroke was not major cause of death in the patients with and without LAA thrombus. The higher rate of receiving anticoagulation therapy may be one of the causes of the discrepancy.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Hyperemic hemodynamic characteristics of serial coronary lesions assessed by pressure pullbacks gradients (PPG) index
Authors: Candreva A , Sonck J , Nagumo S , Gallinoro E , Di Gioia G , Kodeboina M , Mizukami T , Bartunek J , De Bruyne B , Collet C
Published: November 2020

Introduction

The evaluation of functional significance in serial coronary lesions is crucial for achieving optimal clinical outcomes. In this setting, fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurements with pullback pressure recording can be helpful in assessing lesion functional significance.

Purpose

To describe the functional characteristics of angiography-defined serial coronary lesions using FFR-derived motorised pullback tracings, and to describe the Pullback Pressure Gradients (PPG) index - in these lesions.

Methods

Prospective, multicentre study with independent core laboratory analysis. Patients undergoing coronary angiography due to stable angina were enrolled. Serial lesions were defined angiographically as the presence of 2 or more narrowings with visual diameter stenosis >50% separated at least by 3 times the reference vessel diameter in the same coronary vessel. Continuous IV adenosine-FFR measurements were obtained using a motorised device at a speed of 1 mm/s. Pullback curves were assessed to determine the presence of focal step-ups (FFR >0.05 units over 20 mm). In addition, the PPGindex was computed for all vessels. PPGindex values close to 0 define functional diffuse disease whereas values close to 1 define focal disease.

Results

From a total of 159 vessels (117 patients), 25 vessels were adjudicated as presenting serial lesions (mean PPGindex 0.48±0.17, range 0.26–0.87). Two focal pressure step-ups were observed in 40% of the cases (n=10; mean PPGindex 0.59±0.17), whereas 8% of the vessels presented a progressive pressure losses (n=2; mean PPGindex 0.27±0.01). In the remaining 52% of the cases, a single pressure step-up was recorded (n=13; mean PPGindex 0.44±0.12; ANOVA p-value = 0.01). The PPGindex independently predicted the presence of two focal pressure step ups.

Conclusion

Hyperemic FFR curves in tandem stenoses revealed high prevalence of functional diffuse CAD. Two pressure step-ups occurred in less than half of the vessels. High PPG-Index identified vessels with two focal pressure drops. FFR tracings and the PPGindex provide a more objective CAD evaluation, which can lead to changes in the therapeutic approach.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Distal transradial access for coronary angiography and interventions in everyday practice: data from the TRIANGLE Registry
Authors: Schenke K , Viertel A , Prog R , Joghetaei N , Matthiesen T , Ohm N , Bott-Fluegel L , Dill T , Groenefeld G
Published: November 2020

Background

Transradial access has become the primary route for coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). Recently a new puncture site more distally on the dorsal side of the hand in the area of the anatomical snuffbox has been developed.

Purpose

With this multicenter registry, we wish to demonstrate the feasibility and safety of the distal transradial access (dTRA) and assess the rate of radial artery occlusion (RAO). As an exploratory endpoint, we compared peri-interventional data between right- and left-radial access and differences between the true anatomical snuffbox (SB) and the distal- dorsal (DD) puncture site.

Methods

Between December 2018 and May 2019 we included all patients into this registry with a planned CAG or PCI via dTRA in three cardiology centers in Germany. Procedural data, puncture success, crossover rate and complications were registered. We examined proximal and distal radial artery patency by ultrasound within 48 h after removal of compression device.

Results

A total of 327 patients were enrolled (mean age: 69 years, male: 69%), in 5 cases bilateral distal puncture was performed, puncture success was high (N=316/332, 95%) and the crossover rate was low (27/332, 8%). The rate of proximal (2/332) and distal (3/332) RAO was low. Major complications were not encountered. The comparison between SB and DD site and left- and right radial access showed no significant differences (see table).

The indication for CAG in 50% of the population was acute coronary syndrome, including 28 patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (8.4%). Overall PCI rate was 48%. PCI cases did not demonstrate a crossover rate higher than in CAG. PCI on chronic total occlusion (CTO) was performed in 16 cases including bilateral dTRA.

Conclusion

Coronary angiography and interventions via dTRA can be performed with a high rate of success and safety. This data suggests a reduced rate of RAO compared to previous reported data after cannulation via the standard forearm radial artery puncture site. Randomized studies are needed to further investigate these results.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Impact of visit-to-visit variability in blood pressure on coronary plaque as assessed by integrated backscatter intravascular ultrasound
Authors: Kato Y , Iwata A , Miura S
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Visit-to-visit variability (VVV) in blood pressure (BP) has been reported to be a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease. However, the association of VVV in BP and coronary plaque composition has not been fully elucidated.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between VVV in BP and the tissue characteristics of coronary plaques as assessed by integrated backscatter (IB) intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

One hundred-two consecutive patients with CAD who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using IVUS, and who had at least six clinic visits a year before PCI were included. We measured systolic and diastolic BP (SBP and DBP) at each visit and determined VVV in BP expressed as the standard deviation of the average BP. Gray-scale and IB IVUS examinations were performed for the culprit lesion of a coronary artery just before PCI.

Results

There were no significant associations between the average SBP or DBP and various IVUS parameters. However, VVV in SBP was positively correlated with both the percentage of atheroma volume (PAV) (r=0.227, p=0.023) and percentage of lipid volume (PLV) (r=0.532, p<0.001). VVV in DBP was positively correlated with PLV (r=0.243, p=0.014), while there was no significant correlation between VVV in DBP and PAV. A multiple regression analysis showed that VVV in SBP was independently associated with PAV (p=0.036) and PLV (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Larger VVV in SBP was significantly associated with an increased plaque burden and lipid composition at the culprit lesion of a coronary artery in CAD patients. The improvement of VVV in SBP may contribute to the regression and stabilization of coronary plaques.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Relation of microchannel identified by optical coherence tomography to clinical, angiography and other plaque morphological characteristics in ST-segment Elevation myocardial infarction patients
Authors: Wang J , Dai J , Fang C , Yu B
Published: November 2020

Background

Previous studies have suggested that Microchannel (MC) is associated with plaque progression and vulnerability. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) could provide a chance to directly visualize plaque neovascularization in vivo.

Methods

1268 STEMI patients who underwent OCT examination of culprit lesion were included and divided into MC group (the culprit plaque with MC, n=560) and no-MC group (the culprit plaque without MC, n=708). MC was defined as a no-signal tubuloluminal structure on the cross-sectional optical coherence tomographic image. Clinical, angiography and other plaque morphological characteristics were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of MC in overall. In addition, the difference of predictors on MC was found in plaque rupture (PR) and plaque erosion (PE).

Results

Significant differences between MC group and no-MC group were found in the frequency of thin-cap fibroatheroma (74.6% vs 64.4%, p<0.001), lipid plaque (91.8% vs 82.9%, p<0.001), lipid core length (13.7±6.5mm vs 12.6±6.3mm, p=0.006) and the minimal lumen area (MLA, 1.95±0.98mm2 vs 2.10±1.58mm2, p=0.046). In MC group, the other vulnerable plaque morphological characteristics, such as macrophage (88.8% vs 75.1%, p<0.001), cholesterol crystal (39.6% vs 32.9%, p=0.013), spotty calcification (38.6% vs 29.5%, p<0.001) were more frequent. And compared with MLA the more locations of the culprit lesion in MC group was proximal (proximal, 47.3% vs 38.1%, at MLA, 38.2% vs 44.2%, distal, 14.5% vs 17.7%, p=0.004).The difference of Hemoglobin (Hb, 147.5±16.9g/L vs 144.1±18.2g/L, p<0.001), lipidemia (TC, 188.7±43.6mmol/L vs 180.8±40.0mmol/L, p<0.001, LDL-C, 121.5±37.4mmol/L vs 115.7±36.8mmol/L, p=0.005, and TC/HDL, 4.0±1.6 vs 3.8±1.0, p<0.001), and hypertension (50.7% vs 44.2%, p=0.021) between 2 groups was statistically significant. Multivariable logistic regression models showed 7 independent parameters associated with MC in culprit plaque of overall: hypertension, Hb, TC, MLA, lesion location (compared with MLA), lipid core length, macrophage, spotty calcification. In addition, Hb, TC and MLA were common predictors of MC in PR and PE, however, the predictive effect of MLA on MC was opposite in PR [OR (95% CI)=1.266 (1.095–1.463), p=0.001] and PE [OR (95% CI)=0.742 (0.597–0.922), p=0.007].

Conclusions

MC in culprit plaque is associated with more lipid (especially cholesterol), higher Hb, hypertension, lesion location (compared with MLA) and the other vulnerable plaque morphological characteristics. The predictors of MC were different in plaque rupture and plaque erosion.

Flow chart

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Foundation. Main funding source(s): National Natural Science Foundation of China (81827806, 81801861); National Key R&D Program of China (2016YFC1301100)
Comparison of FFR with iFR and QFR in assessment of intermediate coronary artery disease in patients with severe aortic stenosis
Authors: Kleczynski P , Dziewierz A , Rzeszutko L , Dudek D , Legutko J
Published: November 2020

Background

The functional assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD) in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) has been barely examined so far, and the best strategy to physiologically investigate the relevance of coronary stenosis in this specific setting of patients remains undetermined. The aim of the study is to compare the diagnostic performance of instantaneous wave-free ratio (iFR), quantitative flow ratio (QFR) and fractional flow reserve (FFR) in patients with severe AS.

Methods

The functional significance of 416 coronary lesions was investigated with iFR, FFR and QFR measurements in 221 AS patients. The iFR-FFR and QFR-FFR diagnostic agreement has been tested using the conventional 0.80 FFR cut-off.

Results

Mean value of FFR was 0.85±0.07; iFR – 0.90±0.04; QFR – 0.84±0.07. The correlation between iFR and FFR was good (r=0.83, p<0.001) and QFR and FFR was goot too (r=0.77, p<0.001), as well as the area under the curve at ROC curve analysis 0,995 (0,983 to 0,999, p<0.001) for iFR and 0,988 (0,972 to 0,996, p<0.001) for QFR. However, using the standard iFR 0.89 and QFR 0.8 threshold, the diagnostic accuracy of iFR was 100% sensitivity and 90.26% specificity and for QFR – 100% and 92.21%, respectively. According to ROC analysis, the best iFR cut-off in predicting FFR ≤0.8 was 0.88 (J=0.94), the best QFR cut-off value was 0.80 (J=0.92).

Conclusions

In the presence of severe AS, iFR and QFR had good agreement with FFR values for assessment of borderline coronary lesions. However, iFR threshold for predicting FFR below 0.8 may be different from a standard value of 0.89.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): National Science Centre
Comparison of two simple treatment algorithms for iatrogenic femoral artery pseudoaneurysm: ultrasound guided manual compression vs. ultrasound guided thrombin injection
Authors: Stern M , Oezaslan G , Sansone R , Baasen S , Heiss C , Kelm M , Busch L
Published: November 2020

Background

Postcatheterization femoral pseudoaneurysm (PSA) is a common access site related complication after endovascular procedures with potentially deleterious effect on patient outcome. There is still lack of consensus about the optimal treatment.

Objective

We analyze the incidence of PSA in a large cohort of patients undergoing state of the art procedures in current cardiology, identify independent risk factors for PSA formation and assess our experience in PSA treatment comparing two simple treatment algorithms: ultrasound guided manual compression vs. ultrasound guided thrombin injection as a first line treatment.

Methods and results

In this single-centre, retrospective study 29.802 patients from January 2013 to May 2018 underwent femoral artery catheterization. Sheath removal was carried out according to standard operating procedures of the clinic. In 228 patients, a PSA was diagnosed. Thus, overall incidence of PSA amounted to 0.8%.

Of 228 patients with a PSA, 117 (51%) patients were primarily treated with ultrasound guided manual compression with an overall success rate of 34% at next day follow up. All other patients (n=111, 49%) were primarily treated with ultrasound guided thrombin injection with an overall success rate of 99% at next day follow up. Low rates of periprocedural complications were noted with either hemostasis technique.

Analysis of laboratory characteristics revealed that efficacy of ultrasound guided manual compression is dependent on INR whereas efficacy of ultrasound guided thrombin injection is independent of INR (p=0.0253). There was also a higher rate of significant hemoglobin drop with ultrasound guided manual compression versus ultrasound guided thrombin injection (0.78 mg/dl ± 0.09 vs 0.26 mg/dl ± 0.08, p=0.038). Time to mobilization was significantly shorter after ultrasound guided thrombin injection (UGTI: mean time 23.4 h ± 3.1 h, UGMC: mean time 27.1 h ± 10.2 h, p=0.0002).

Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that female gender, age (>75 years), oral anticoagulation and anemia are independent risk factors for PSA formation.

Conclusions

Almost 0.8% of patients undergoing cardiac catheterization via femoral access acquire PSA, for which independent risk factors could be identified. Interventional cardiologist operated ultrasound guided thrombin injection is highly effective and safe as a first line treatment and reduces blood loss compared to ultrasound guided manual compression.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Prognostic impact of gender and young age in patients with acute myocardial infarction undergoing primary PCI
Authors: Radomirovic M , Milasinovic D , Mehmedbegovic Z , Pavlovic A , Zaharijev S , Zobenica V , Jelic D , Tesic M , Ivanovic B , Stankovic G , Vukcevic V , Asanin M
Published: November 2020

Background

Previous studies showed higher unadjusted mortality rates in female patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, after adjusting for differences in baseline characteristics, including age, female gender was not consistently associated with higher mortality.

Purpose

Our aim was to investigate the impact of gender on short- and long-term mortality in patients aged 18 to 55 years with AMI undergoing primary PCI.

Methods

We included 11 288 patients admitted for primary PCI during 2009–2019, from a prospectively kept, electronic registry of a high-volume tertiary center. Adjusted Cox regression models were used to assess 30-day and 5-year mortality hazard. Median follow up was 1 507 days.

Results

3 505 patients were younger than 55 years (31%). In this age group, 18.9% were female patients (n=661). Baseline characteristics were similar for females vs. males below the age of 55 years, including similar reperfusion times (338 min. vs. 341 min., p=0.8), with only exceptions being a higher rate of previous hypertension (64% vs. 58%, p=0.002) and stroke (3.6% vs. 2.2%, p=0.049), as well as lower ejection fraction (48% vs. 51%, p<0.001), in female patients. MINOCA (Myocardial Infarction with Nonobstructive Coronary Arteries) was more frequently present in female vs. male patients aged ≤55 years (10.1% vs. 5.0%, p<0.001). In the overall population, crude mortality was higher in female patients at 30 days (9.8% vs. 6.0%, p<0.001) and 5 years (38.4% vs. 30.2%, p<0.001). In younger patients (≤55 years), mortality rates were low and similar between the sexes at both 30 days (3.6% in females vs. 2.5% in males, p=0.136) and 5 years (14.5% vs. 13.4%, p=0.58). On the contrary, in patients aged >55 years, crude mortality was higher in female patients at both 30 days (11.3% vs. 7.9%, p<0.001) and 5 years (43.9% vs. 39.4%, p=0.02), albeit mainly driven by the differences in baseline characteristics between the sexes in this older age group (adjusted HR for female sex 1.220, CI95% 0.920–0.617, p=0.17, at 30 days; and adjusted HR 1.033, CI95% 0.908–0.175, p=0.62, at 5 years).

Conclusion

Differences in crude mortality rates between sexes in patients with AMI admitted for primary PCI appear to be mainly dependent on age, with similar rates of both short- and long-term mortality in younger patients (≤55 years). The observed excess in mortality in older (>55 years) female vs. male patients could be explained by the differences in baseline clinical characteristics.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Comparison of two iterations of the zotarolimus-eluting stents: an analysis of all-comer patients from two consecutive randomised clinical trials
Authors: Buiten R.A , Ploumen E.H , Zocca P , Jessurun G.A.J , Schotborgh C.E , Roguin A , Danse P.W , Benit E , Aminian A , Scholte M , Hartmann M , Van Houwelingen K.G , Doggen C.J.M , Linssen G.C.M , Von Birgelen C
Published: November 2020

Background

The newest iteration of the durable polymer zotarolimus-eluting stents (ZES) is designed with thin swaged shape composite-wire struts (inner platinum–iridium core and outer cobalt–chromium layer). It is of interest to compare the clinical performance of this novel device with its predecessor in all-comers.

Purpose

The purpose of the present study is to assess 2-year clinical outcome in all-comer patients who were treated with the novel ZES versus the previous iteration ZES.

Methods

We did a post-hoc analysis of clinical outcome data of 2374 patients who were treated with the novel or the previous generation ZES (only nominal stent diameters that were available for both devices) in two consecutive large-scale randomised all-comer trials. A total of 1201 trial participants were treated with the novel ZES, and 1173 were treated with the previous generation ZES. The main outcome parameter target vessel failure is a composite of safety (cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction) and efficacy (target vessel revascularisation). Clinical outcome data were analysed with Kaplan-Meier methods and hazard ratios were computed with Cox regression analysis. An additional analysis was done in a subgroup of patients who presented with chronic coronary syndromes.

Results

The mean age of the study population was 63.9±10.9 years, 611 (25.7%) were female and 1669 (70.3%) presented with acute coronary syndromes. Two-year follow-up was available in 2346 (98.8%) participants. After 2 years, there was no significant difference between stent-groups in the rates of target vessel failure (7.2% vs. 8.3%, HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.64–1.14, p-logrank = 0.28; Figure 1) or its individual components. Peri-procedural myocardial infarction occurred less often in patients treated with the novel ZES (0.7% vs. 2.1%, p-logrank <0.01), and definite-or-probable stent thrombosis rates were low in both ZES groups (0.3% vs. 0.8%, p-logrank = 0.15). In a subgroup of 705 patients with chronic coronary syndromes, the rate of target vessel myocardial infarction tended to be lower with novel ZES (1.8% vs. 4.2%, p-logrank = 0.05).

Conclusions

The novel ZES showed similar 2-year clinical outcomes as compared to its predecessor. Furthermore, there was a positive safety signal regarding the incidence of target vessel myocardial infarction and a particularly low stent thrombosis rates with the novel ZES.

Figure 1. Target vessel failure at 2 years

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Other. Main funding source(s): Thoraxcentrum Twente has received institutional research grants provided by Abbott Vascular, Biotronik, Boston Scientific and Medtronic. The present analysis received no funding.
Two-year clinical performance of Absorb BVS compared to Xience EES in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: a pooled analysis of AIDA and COMPARE-ABSORB trials
Authors: Kerkmeijer L.S.M , Chao G , Tijssen R , Gori T , Kraak R.P , Tijssen J.G.P , Onuma Y , Chevalier B , De Winter R.J , Smits P , Van Geuns R.J , Wykrzykowska J.J
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) use appears theoretically attractive in patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) as acute lesions are generally composed of soft plaques, in which optimal BVS deployment and expansion is easier to achieve. Furthermore, those patients are generally younger and would benefit longer from the promise of vascular restoration therapy.

Purpose

In this patient level pooled analysis of two clinical trials, we evaluated the clinical outcomes of Absorb BVS versus Xience everolimus-eluting stent (EES) in STEMI patients at 2-year follow-up.

Methods

We performed an individual patient-level pooled analysis of the AIDA and COMPARE-ABSORB trials in which 3515 patient were randomly assigned to Absorb BVS (n=1772) or Xience EES (n=1743). Clinical outcomes in STEMI patients were analyzed by randomized treatment assignment cumulative through 2 years. The primary efficacy outcomes measure was target lesion failure (cardiac death, target-vessel myocardial infarction or target lesion revascularization), and the primary safety outcome measure was device thrombosis at 2-year follow-up.

Results

350 (19.8%) STEMI patients were allocated to Absorb BVS versus 328 (18.8%) to Xience EES. The mean age of patient presenting with STEMI was 60 years old, 76.0% were males and 15.3% had diabetes mellitus. At 2-years target lesion failure occurred in 8.4% of BVS STEMI patients and 6.2% of EES STEMI patients (p=0.253). The 2-year rates of cardiac death (2.6% vs 1.6%, p=0.332), TV-MI (4.7% vs 2.5%) and TLR (6.8% vs 4.1%) were not significantly different. The 2-year incidence of definite device thrombosis was 4.7% in Absorb BVS versus 1.8% in Xience EES (p=0.045).

Conclusion

In the present patient-level pooled analysis of the AIDA and COMPARE-Absorb trials, BVS was associated with increased rates of device thrombosis in STEMI patients compared to Xience EES.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Abbott
Intracoronary imaging reduces target vessel failure in primary percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Ho C , Yeung Y.K , Leung C , Lee P.H , So T.C , Chiang M.C.S , Wong M.H , Tsang C.F , Chui S.F , Chan K.C , Wong C.Y , Fu C.L , Lee K.Y , Chan K.T
Published: November 2020

Background

Intracoronary imaging during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) allows better delineation of lesion characteristics and more accurate vessel sizing compared with angiogram alone. However, the benefit and safety of its use in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is uncertain.

Purpose

To determine whether the use of intracoronary imaging with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) or optical coherence tomography (OCT)/ optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI) in PPCI is associated with better outcome.

Method

From Jan 2014 to Dec 2018, all patients with PPCI performed in our hospital were retrospectively studied. Baseline and procedural characteristics of angiographic-guided versus imaging-guided PCI were analyzed. Primary endpoint was target vessel failure, and procedural outcomes were contrast volume, number of stents implanted, mean stent length and diameter and use of post-dilatation. Safety outcomes were post-operative acute kidney injury (AKI), need for renal replacement therapy (RRT) and occurrence of no/slow reflow.

Results

A total of 408 patients were included, of which 223 (54.7%) used IVUS (n=176 80.3%) or OCT/OFDI (n=44 19.7%) during the procedure. Baseline and procedural characteristics were similar between both groups except more patients had history of PCI (12.6% vs 4.3% p=0.004) and left-main/ bifurcation lesions (12.6% vs 2.7% p<0.001). Intra-coronary imaging was associated with less target vessel failure during a median follow up of 22 months (Hazard ratio (HR): 0.59; 95% Confidence interval (CI): 0.36–0.97; p=0.036). Patients who had intra-coronary imaging during PPCI received more post-dilatation (77.1% vs 55.1% p<0.001), had longer (53mm vs 42mm p<0.001) and more stents (2 vs 1.67 p=0.003) implanted but had more contrast injected (151.2ml vs 130.6ml p=0.002). There was no statistically significant difference in mean stent diameter (3.07mm vs 3.02mm p=0.53), occurrence of slow/now reflow (15.3% vs 18.4% p=0.409), incidence of AKI (7.2% vs 10.8% p=0.197) or need for RRT (3.1% vs 5.4% p=0.254) between both groups.

Conclusion

Use of intra-vascular imaging during PPCI was associated with less target vessel failure, longer and more stents implanted and more frequent use of post-dilatation. Further prospective randomized controlled trial is suggested to confirm this benefit.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Right ventricular rather than left ventricular systolic dysfunction predicts outcome in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation: insights from cardiac magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Koschutnik M , Nitsche C , Dona C , Dannenberg V , Kammerlander A.A , Aschauer S , Goliasch G , Siller-Matula J , Winter M.P , Andreas M , Loewe C , Hengstenberg C , Mascherbauer J
Published: November 2020

Background

Right ventricular (RV) function is strongly associated with outcome in heart failure. Whether it also adds important prognostic information in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is unknown.

Methods

We consecutively enrolled patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) scheduled for TAVI and preprocedural cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Kaplan-Meier estimates and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with outcome. A composite of heart failure hospitalization and/or cardiovascular death was selected as primary study endpoint.

Results

423 consecutive patients (80.7±7.3 years; 48% female) were prospectively included, 201 (48%) underwent CMR imaging. 55 (27%) patients presented with RV systolic dysfunction (RVSD) defined by RV ejection fraction (RVEF) <45%. RVSD was associated with male sex (69 vs. 40%; p<0.001), New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional status (NYHA ≥ III: 89 vs. 57%; p<0.001), NT-proBNP serum levels (9365 vs. 2715 pg/mL; p<0.001), and history of atrial fibrillation (AF: 51 vs. 30%; p=0.005). On CMR, RVSD was associated with left ventricular (LV) volumes (end-diastolic: 187 vs. 137 mL, end-systolic: 119 vs. 53 mL; p<0.001) and EF (39 vs. 64%; p<0.001).

A total of 51 events (37 deaths, 14 hospitalizations for heart failure) occurred during follow-up (9.8±9 months). While LVSD (LVEF <50%) was not significantly associated with outcome (HR 0.83, 95% CI: 0.33 – 2.11; p=0.694), RVSD showed a strong and independent association with event-free survival by multivariate Cox regression analysis (HR 2.47, 95% CI: 1.07–5.73; p=0.035), which was adjusted for all relevant CMR parameters (LV volumes and EF), cardiovascular risk factors (sex, NYHA, AF, diabetes mellitus type II, use of diuretics), and routine biomarkers (NT-proBNP, creatinine).

Conclusions

RVSD rather than LVSD, as determined on CMR, is an important predictor of outcome in patients undergoing TAVI. RV function might thus add useful prognostic information on top of established risk factors.

Figure 1. Kaplan-Meier survival curves

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None
Procedural and remote outcome among patients undergoing urgent trans-catheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Berkovitch A , Segev A , Finkelstein A , Kornowski R , Danenberg H , Fefer P , Vaknin Assa H , Konigstein M , Perlman G , Maor E , Orvin K , Steinvil A , Shuvy M , Guetta V , Barbash I.M
Published: November 2020

Background

Severe aortic stenosis patients suffer frequent heart failure decompensations events often requiring hospitalization. In extreme situations patients can be found with pulmonary edema and cardiogenic shock, unresponsive to medical treatment. Urgent trans-catheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as a treatment option for these high-risk patients.

Methods

We investigated 3,599 patients undergoing TAVI. Subjects were divided into two groups based on procedure urgency: patients who were electively hospitalized for the procedure (N=3,448) and those who had an urgent TAVI (N=151). Peri-procedural complications were documented according to the VARC-2 criteria. In hospital and 1-year mortality rates were prospectively documented.

Results

Mean age of the study population was 82±7, of whom 52% were female. Peri-procedural complication rates was significantly higher among patients with an urgent indication for TAVI compared to those having an elective procedure: valve malposition 3.6% vs. 0.6% (p-value=0.023), valve migration 3.2% vs. 0.9% (p-value=0.016), post procedure myocardial infarction 3.7% vs. 0.3% (p-value=0.004), and stage 3 acute kidney injury 2.6% vs. 0.5%, (p-value=0.02). Univariate analysis found that patients with urgent indication for TAVI had significantly higher in hospital mortality (5.8% vs. 1.4%, p-value<0.001). similarly, multivariate analysis adjusted for age, gender and cardio-vascular risk factors found that patients with urgent indication had more than 5-folds increased risk of in-hospital mortality (OR 5.94, 95% CI 2.28–15.43, p-value<0.001). Kaplan-Meier's survival analysis showed that patients undergoing urgent TAVI had higher 1-year mortality rates compared to patients undergoing an elective TAVI procedure (p-value log-rank<0.001, Figure). Multivariate analysis found they had more than 2-folds increased risk of mortality at 1-year (HR 2.27, 95% CI 1.53–3.38, p<0.001 compared to those having an elective procedure.

Conclusions

Patients with urgent indication for TAVI have higher in-hospital mortality and higher peri-procedural complication rates. However, if these patients survive the index hospitalization, they enjoy good prognosis.

Kaplan-Meier's survival analysis

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None