bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
P2592Combining home monitoring temporal trends and baseline patient risk profile for predicting impending heart failure hospitalizations. Results from the SELENE HF (BIO.Detect HF IV) study
Authors: D'Onofrio A , Solimene F , Calo' L , Calvi V , Viscusi M , Melissano D , Russo V A , Rapacciuolo A , Campana A , Bonfanti P , Caravati F , Zanotto G , Gronda E , Gargaro A , Padeletti L
Published: October 2019

Background/Introduction

The lack of a validated method to efficiently combine information provided by Remote Monitoring (RM) of implantable defibrillators (ICD) and patient clinical profile has limited the use of RM in the prevention of worsening heart failure episodes.

Purpose

Our objective was to develop and validate an index combining RM temporal trends and a baseline risk score for predicting the first HF hospitalization after device implantation.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 918 patients (81% male, median age 69, interquartile interval [QI], 61/76; Seattle Heart Failure Score [SHFS], 0.17, QI, −0.40/0.75) with indication to ICD (56%), or ICD with cardiac resynchronization therapy (44%). The Home Monitoring (HM) system was activated in all patients after implant to collect several technical and HF-related variables daily. Investigators were blinded to HM reports, and only received automatic alerts for critical technical issues. The primary endpoint was the first adjudicated HF hospitalization. The cohort was a posteriori 1:1 randomized in derivation and validation groups stratified by device type and primary endpoint occurrence. The SHFS was used for baseline risk assessment.

Results

During a median follow-up of 23 months (QI, 14/36), 62 first HF hospitalizations were adjudicated. In the derivation group, the index was constructed by combining the SHFS and temporal trends of 24-hour and rest mean heart rates, ventricular ectopic beat frequency, arrhythmic atrial burden, heart rate variability, physical exercise, and thoracic impedance. Variable selection was based on an automatic stepwise procedure, after applying appropriate transformations in variable-specific time frames to maximize the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC). The resulting index was associated to an AUC of 0.88 and an Odds Ratio of 2.72 (confidence interval [CI] 1.97–3.75, p<0.001) for index unitary increase. In the index validation test, first HF hospitalizations were predicted with a sensitivity of 73.3% (CI, 54.1%-87.7%), a median alerting time of 55 days (QI, 20/68), false alert rate of 0.75 (CI, 0.70–0.81) patient-year, and 95.1% false-alert-free days.

Conclusion

HM temporal trends of selected variables and the SHFS may be combined to timely and efficiently predict the first HF hospitalization after implant, with less than 1 expected per-patient false alert per year.

Acknowledgement/Funding

BIOTRONIK SE & Co. KG, Berlin, Germany
P2602Inhaled iloprost improves echocardiographic myocardial performance during exercise in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Huang C Y , Wu C K , Lin L Y
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The pathophysiology of HFpEF is complicated and treatments that improve outcomes in HFrEF have no substantial benefits in HFpEF. Impairments in LV global longitudinal strain (GLS) and LV diastolic function parameters have been regarded as novel echocardiographic markers to predict cardiovascular events in HFpEF. Preliminary trials indicate that iloprost, an inhaled prostacyclin analougue, improves exercise hemodynamics in both patients with pulmonary artery hypertension and pulmonary hypertension associated with HFpEF.

Purpose

We aim to investigate the impact of inhaled iloprost on LV global longitudinal strain, LV diastolic function and RV function during exercise in HFpEF population.

Methods

34 patients diagnosed with HFpEF were included with exclusion of severe pulmonary, coronary artery, valvular heart and pericardial diseases. Subjects were randomized 1:1 to inhalation of iloprost or placebo. Transthoracic echocardiography was performed at rest and after 6-minute supine bicycle exercise at 20-Watt workload. We utilized tissue speckle tracking by QLAB software to derive LV GLS and global strain rate during LV isovolumetric relaxation period (SRIVR). E/e', E/SRIVR, tricuspid regurgitation pressure gradient (TRPG), tissue Doppler imaging of RV lateral tricuspid annulus and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) were measured to evaluate changes of myocardial performance.

Results

LV GLS during exercise significantly enhanced after iloprost use. E/SRIVR, a novel predictor of LV filling pressure, was significantly decreased. E/e' was also lower in iloprost group by trend. Improvements in RV function and degree of pulmonary hypertension during exercise with iloprost were observed in this study.

Echocardiographic myocardial function endpoints during 20-Watt excercise between iloprost and placebo groups Iloprost (N=17) Placebo (N=17) P value LV global longitudinal strain, % −4.96±1.20 −0.75±3.00 <0.001 E/SRIVR, cm 206.41±113.55 454.13±262.98 0.005 E/e' mean 10.77±2.39 14.41±12.14 0.235 TAPSE, cm 2.62±0.62 2.37±0.56 0.221 TRPG, mmHg 28.37±12.47 44.25±9.29 <0.001 TDI lateral tricuspid annulus, cm/s 16.41±4.61 14.77±2.92 0.222

Effects of iloprost at rest and exercise

Conclusions

Our study is the first to demonstrate that, in patients with HFpEF, inhaled iloprost favorably enhances LV GLS reserves, decreases LV diastolic filling load, reduces pulmonary hypertension and thereby improves RV function during exercise.

Acknowledgement/Funding

This work was supported in part by the National Science Council of the Republic of China, Taiwan (NSC107-2314-B-002-265-MY3)
P2604Clinical features associated with the development of diastolic dysfunction
Authors: Bots S H , Verschoor G B , Rutten F H , Onland-Moret N C , Hofstra L , Berdowski J , Tulevski I I , Somsen G A , Den Ruijter H M
Published: October 2019

Background/Introduction

Treatment for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is still elusive, which is a serious problem given the fact that it affects approximately 8 million people in Europe. Diastolic dysfunction (DD) is considered a precursor of HFpEF and could serve as a target for prevention. However, it is yet unclear which clinical features are associated with the development of diastolic dysfunction in men and women.

Purpose

To determine which clinical features are associated with the development of diastolic dysfunction in men and women visiting a cardiology outpatient clinic.

Methods

All individuals who visited one of the 13 Cardiology Centers Netherlands locations at least twice between April and 2007 and February 2018 for an echocardiographic evaluation were eligible for inclusion. Participants with incomplete data on diastolic function parameters or diastolic dysfunction at baseline were excluded. Information on age, sex, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), blood lipid levels, kidney function, cardiac history, co-morbidities and cardiovascular drug use was obtained for all participants. Diastolic function was scored based on E/e', relative wall thickness (RWT) and left-atrial dimension indexed by body surface area (LAD/BSA). The score allotted zero points for E/e' ≤8, RWT ≤0.41 and LAD/BSA ≤2.3, one point for E/e' between 9–14, RWT >0.42 and LAD/BSA >2.3, and two points for E/e' ≥15. Development of DD was defined as an increase in diastolic function score between the first and second echo. Missing data on determinants (max 26%) was imputed using multiple imputation. A stepwise logistic regression based on AIC was applied to evaluate the association between selected clinical features and DD. All analyses were performed in R.

Results

The study population comprised 1301 patients with a mean age of 56 (± 11) years and 46% were women. The median time between echo appointments was 631 (IQR: 381–1132) days and 549 patients developed DD (42%). After stepwise regression, the final model included age, sex, BMI, SBP, triglycerides and hypertension. DD was less likely to occur in men compared with women (OR=0.62, 95% CI: 0.57–0.67), and more likely in patients with hypertension (OR=1.29, 95% CI: 1.18–1.42) after adjustment. The adjusted risk for DD increased with triglyceride level (OR=1.24, 95% CI: 1.19–1.29), age (OR=1.04 per year, 95% CI: 1.03–1.04), BMI (OR=1.03 per kg/m2, 95% CI: 1.01–1.04) and SBP (OR=1.01 per 1 mmHg, 95% CI: 1.006–1.011) (Figure 1).

Figure 1

Conclusion(s)

Women and those with hypertension were at higher risk of developing DD compared to their male or normotensive counterparts. Age, triglyceride levels, BMI and SBP were also independently associated with an increased risk for DD. Prevention efforts focussing on life style changed and possibly lipid and blood pressure lowering drugs may reduce the risk of developing DD.
P2607Quick nutritional assessment and prognosis in outpatients with heart failure with mid-range ejection fraction
Authors: Zamora E , Gonzalez B , Rivas C , Diaz V , Velayos P , Lupon J , De Antonio M , Domingo M , Moliner P , Santiago-Vacas E , Cachero M , Joaquim C , Alonso N , Santesmases J , Bayes-Genis A
Published: October 2019

Background

Nutritional status is an important prognostic factor in patients with heart failure (HF) beyond body mass index, although its prognostic value in patients with mid-range left ventricular ejection fraction (HFmrEF) is not completely elucidated. In a pilot study we observed that the Mini Nutritional Assessment Short Form (MNA-SF) was the best approach for the screening of nutritional status in HF outpatients over others screening tools.

Purpose

To assess the prognostic role of malnutrition or risk of malnutrition in HFmrEF outpatients after the implementation of the MNA-SF screening tool in a routine way in a multidisciplinary HF.

Methods

The MNA-SF screening tool was administered during the global nurse evaluation of patients. The scoring ranges from 0 to 14, being 0 to7 as malnutrition status, 8 to 11 as at risk of malnutrition and 12 to 14 as normal nutritional status. For the present study those patients with malnutrition and at risk of malnutrition were merged and considered abnormal nutritional status. All-cause death was the primary end-point. Univariate and multivariate (backward conditional stepwise) Cox regression analyses were performed.

Results

Since October 2016 to November 2017, 153 HFmrEF patients were studied (mean age 68.8±11.7 years, 72.5% men, body mass index 28.4±4.4, LVEF 44% ± 3, NYHA class I 5.9%, II 86.3%, and III 7.8%). According to the MNA-SF 25 patients were (16.3%) fulfilled criteria of malnutrition (4) or where at risk of malnutrition (21). During a mean follow-up of 17.4±6.1 months, 23 patients died (15%). In the univariate analysis, nutritional abnormal status was significantly associated with all-cause death (HR 2.93 [1.23–7], p=0.02). In the multivariate analysis which included age, sex, NYHA functional class, body mass index, ischemic aetiology of HF and years of duration of HF, abnormal nutritional status remained significantly associated with all-cause mortality (HR 3.64 [1.39–9.54], p=0.009), together with NYHA functional class (HR 7.93 [2.69–23.4], p<0.001) and years of HF duration (HR 1.10 [1.04–1.16], p=0.001).

Conclusions

Nutritional status assessed with the screening MNA-SF was an independent predictor of all-cause death in ambulatory patients with HFmrEF – beyond BMI – together with NYHA functional class and HF duration.
P2620PIONEER-HF criteria ready for the prime time? Data from REDINSCOR II registry
Authors: Vidal-Perez R , Varela-Roman A , Gomez-Otero I , Pascual-Figal D , Delgado Jimenez J , Agra-Bermejo R , Cordero-Fort A , Ferrero-Gregori A , Alvarez-Garcia J , Worner Diz F , Segovia Cubero J , Cinca Cuscullola J , Fernandez Aviles F , Mazon-Ramos P , Gonzalez-Juanatey J R
Published: October 2019

Background

New treatment strategies are needed to improve the prognosis in acute heart failure (AHF), recently PIONEER-HF results have been published showing in a selected group of patients a potential use of sacubitril/valsartan with safety in this scenario

Purpose

To evaluate the impact of PIONEER-HF potential indication in daily practice after AHF hospitalization at discharge

Methods

We included a subgroup of 909 patients consecutively admitted with AHF between October 2013 and December 2014 from a national multicentre, prospective registry with the complete data for this analysis. In the trial left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤40% and natriuretic peptides at admission with values of NT-ProBNP≥1600 pg/ml were needed to be included. The clinical and analytic stability at discharge to safely start sacubitril/valsartan was considered as MDRD estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2, Systolic Blood Pressure ≥100 mmHg and Potassium ≤5.2 mmol/L.

Results

The mean age was 72.1±12.01 years. Of these, 373 (38.8%) were female, 734 (76,6%) were hypertensive, 462 (48.2%) had diabetes and 282 (29.9%) coronary artery disease. At admission atrial fibrillation was found in 403 patients (40.1%) and 409 (45%) had reduced LVEF. The mean levels of NT-ProBNP 7259.4±9437.1 pg/ml. In this group of patients, the in-hospital mortality was 28 (2.9%) and the 1 year follow up mortality was 197 (20.5%) and the heart failure rehospitalizations in 1 year were 303 (31,5%). In table 1 the percentage of patients that fulfil the needed criteria for the application of PIONEER HF is shown. In our registry 235 patients (25.9%) could be potential users of sacubitril/valsartan after the acute phase of hospitalization

Table 1 Elements to stablish indication Number of patients (%) NT-ProBNP ≥1600 pg/ml at admission 730 (80.3%) MDRD estimated GFR ≥30 mL/min/1.73 m2 at discharge 798 (87.8%) Systolic Blood Pressure ≥100 mmHg at discharge 755 (83.1%) Serum Potassium ≤5.2 mmol/L at discharge 856 (94.2%) Clinical and analytic stability at discharge 636 (70%) Left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40% 409 (45%) PIONEER HF Criteria 235 (25.9%) GFR: Glomerular Filtration Rate.

Conclusions

In our cohort of AHF patients around 1 out 4 could be treated with sacubitril/valsartan at discharge if we apply the PIONEER HF criteria in a contemporary setting, this finding could have potential implications in the prognosis and current costs of care in a population with high morbidity and mortality.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Heart Failure Program of the Red de Investigaciόn Cardiovascular del Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain (RD12/0042) and FEDER
P2621Clinical safety and efficacy of tolvaptan for acute phase therapy in patients with low-flow severe aortic stenosis
Authors: Mitsui M , Kataoka A , Nara Y , Nagura F , Kawashima H , Hioki H , Nakashima M , Watanabe Y , Yokoyama N , Kozuma K
Published: October 2019

Background

Conventional diuretic therapy for low-flow (LF) severe aortic stenosis (SAS) often has an inadequate effect or causes hemodynamic instability. Tolvaptan is used for acute heart failure in addition to conventional diuretics in Japan, and it does not cause intravascular dehydration.

Purpose

This study aimed to retrospectively investigate the safety and efficacy of tolvaptan in the acute phase patients with SAS and compared LF-SAS with normal-flow (NF) SAS.

Methods

56 consecutive SAS patients are analyzed. The primary endpoints were adverse clinical events (death, worsening heart failure, worsening renal failure, fatal arrhythmia, cardiogenic or hypovolemic shock, and use of inotropic agents) and the volume of urine and fluid balance within 48 hours of tolvaptan administration (Figure).

Results

Among 56 patients, 16 had LF-SAS (29%), and 40 had NF-SAS (71%). Severe adverse clinical events were not observed 48 hours after tolvaptan administration. In both groups, the urine volume significantly increased after tolvaptan administration in comparison to 24 hours before tolvaptan administration (both, p<0.01). There were no changes in the urine volume during the initial 24 and 48 hours. In the LF-SAS group, tolvaptan resulted in a significant decrease in fluid balance during the initial 24 and 48 hours compared to 24 hours before tolvaptan administration (p<0.05).

Treatment and data collection protocols

Conclusion

Adding tolvaptan to conventional treatment leads to an increase in urine output and a decreased fluid balance without hemodynamic instability in patients with LF-SAS.

Acknowledgement/Funding

None
P2623Measurement of liver fibrosis marker: type IV collagen 7S among patients with acute heart failure and its relationship with the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) score
Authors: Aida K , Nagao K , Kajitani K , Tamura A , Kobayashi T , Yukawa H , Kanazawa T , Kobayashi Y , Takahashi N , Nakagawa E , Ito H , Hayashi F , Makita T , Inada T , Tanaka M
Published: October 2019

Background

Hemodynamic disturbance in acute heart failure (HF) can cause injury to extra-cardiac organs such as the liver. Organ injury in HF might evoke a profibrotic response, which could adversely affect the prognosis.

Methods

Among 189 patients with acute HF, we simultaneously determined the liver fibrosis marker, type IV collagen 7S (P4NP 7S) and the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) Score consisting of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1), amino-terminal propeptide of type III procollagen (PIIINP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) on admission and at discharge.

Results

During hospitalization, P4NP 7S and ELF score significantly decreased from 7.1 ng/mL to 6.1 ng/mL (P<0.001) and 10.39 to 10.13 (P<0.001), respectively. P4NP 7S and ELF score were correlated with each other on admission (r=0.4, P<0.001) and at discharge (r=0.4, P<0.001). %Change of (Δ) P4NP 7S during hospitalization was correlated with ΔBNP and ΔELF score (r=0.3, P<0.001 and r=0.4, P<0.001, respectively). Among the components of ELF score, PIIINP and HA were correlated with P4NP 7S on admission (r=0.5, P<0.001 and r=0.3, P<0.001, respectively) and at discharge (r=0.4, P<0.001 and r=0.3, P<0.001, respectively). ΔP4NP 7S was also correlated with ΔTIMP-1, ΔPIIINP and ΔHA (r=0.3, P<0.001, r=0.4, P<0.001 and r=0.3, P<0.001, respectively). Each patient was followed up up to 365 days after discharge. 69 patients died or were hospitalized for HF. When the patients were divided into two groups according to the median value of each marker at discharge, the cumulative 1-year incidences of all cause death or HF hospitalization were 32.0% and 45.5% in P4NP 7S-low and P4NP 7S-high group, respectively (log-rank P=0.051) and 43.2% and 34.9% in ELF score-low and ELF score-high group, respectively (log-rank P=0.44). After adjustment by the clinically relevant factors including age, sex, hemoglobin, sodium and left ventricular ejection fraction, P4NP 7S showed independent prognostic value (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.12, P=0.02), while ELF score did not (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.04, P=0.79).

Conclusion

Parallel elevation of P4NP 7S and ELF score were documented during acute phase of HF. P4NP 7S at discharge may identify patients at high risk for subsequent HF related events.
P2631Improved attitudes of non-cardiologists towards decreased left ventricular ejection fraction after marking “warning on echocardiography report”
Authors: Chen Q , Lin J , Kang Y , Zhang R , Zhang Q
Published: October 2019

Background

Echocardiography (echo) has become a well-accepted noninvasive examination for patients with confirmed or suspected cardiac structural and/or functional abnormalities, by not only heart doctors but also non-heart doctors. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) as the most important parameter of cardiac systolic function must be listed on every echo report. A LVEF of <50% has been regarded as LV systolic dysfunction with reduced ejection fraction.

Purpose

This study aimed to test whether a warning label as “reduced LVEF” on echo report would change the attitude or practice with regard to heart failure (HF) diagnosis and treatment in non-heart doctors.

Methods

From January to June, 2018, the program was conducted by adding a warning label as “reduced LVEF” next to the LVEF reading on echo report if it was <50%. The patients with a reported LVEF <50% and an echo request from non-heart doctors (cardiologists or cardiac surgeons) were selected (labeled group, n=359) for analysis, and a similar group of patients from January to June, 2017 were served as controls (unlabeled group, n=367). The rates of HF diagnosis, N-terminal-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) test, cardiologist consultation and anti-HF medical therapy at discharge were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

There were no major differences in baseline characteristics between the 2 groups. The labeled group received more opportunities of cardiologist consultation (53.2% vs. 44.7%, p=0.02) and referral to cardiology outpatient clinic (57.9% vs. 50.1%, p=0.04) when compared with the unlabeled group. However, the difference was mainly found in patients with a LVEF of 40–49% (n=448, 53.2% of the labeled group vs. 44.7% of the unlabeled group, p=0.02). By pooling the data from the labeled and unlabeled groups, the patients who received cardiologist consultation (n=355) had a significant improvement in HF diagnosis and management than those who did not have a chance of cardiologist consultation (n=371), in terms of higher rates of NT-proBNP test (59.6% vs. 80.8%, p<0.01) and standardized anti-HF medication (Renin-anigotensin system inhibitors: 23.7% vs. 37.2%, p<0.01; β blockers: 22.1% vs. 33.8%, p<0.01; mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists: 27.5% vs. 35.5%, p<0.01).

Conclusions

An added warning label as “reduced LVEF” on echo report beside the LVEF reading would enhance the awareness of systolic HF and the appropriate management in non-heart doctors, in particular for patients with a LVEF of 40∼49%.

Acknowledgement/Funding

The study was supported by a research grant from the Science and Technology Department of Sichuan Province (project number: 2017SZ0059)
P2642Optimal blood pressure control in relation to target organ physiology in hypertensive men with erectile dysfunction
Authors: Angelis A , Aggeli K , Ioakeimidis N , Dimitroglou Y , Georgakopoulos C , Zisimos K , Aznaouridis K , Krommydas A , Terentes-Printzios D , Verveniotis A , Synodinos A , Gourgouli I , Vlachopoulos C , Tousoulis D
Published: October 2019

Background

Target organ damage (TOD) in essential hypertension relates to an adverse prognosis. Middle aged men are considered a population group where cardiovascular risk typically augments and erectile dysfunction (ED) that frequently accompanies both entities refers to a subclinical vascular damage process.

Purpose

To identify the optimal blood pressure (BP) levels in middle aged hypertensive males with ED in relation to TOD.

Methods

258 ED males (mean age: 56 yo) with essential hypertension under medical treatment enrolled the study. All underwent 2D echocardiography and carotid ultrasound evaluation to determine left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and intima – media thickness (IMT) respectively. Carotid – femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AIx) were also assessed as indices of central vascular stiffness and wave reflection physiology (complior & sphygmocor devices). Office brachial blood pressure (BP) measurements where performed according to the current guidelines and an average of three consecutive values was computed. Erectile dysfunction was assessed by using the SHIM-5 score (range 0–25, lower values display a pronounced dysfunction).

Results

In bivariate analysis brachial systolic blood pressure (bSAP) was positively and strongly associated with LVMI (r=0,6), PWV (r=0,65), AIx (r=0,67, all p<0,001) and IMT (p<0,05, r=0,55). Erectile performance as assessed by the SHIM-5 score was negatively related to PWV, AIX and IMT (r=−0,58, r=−0,45 and r=−0,65 all p<0,001) pointing out the underlying vascular detriment. Interestingly, there were no such correlations regarding the diastolic blood pressure values. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed and the relation of bSAP with LVMI, PWV, AIx and IMT remained significant after adjustment for age, BMI, smoking habits and presence of diabetes mellitus (all p<0,05). We further subdivided our population into three groups according to the values of office bSAP for normal blood pressure (≤129mmHg, n=143,55%), high normal (130–139mmHg, n=59, 23%) and high (≥140mmHg, n=56,22%). In patients with high-normal bSAP, the parameters of PWV and LVMI were significantly higher than in patients with normal BP (independent sample t-test, p: 0,032 and 0,016 respectively). Patients of the high bSAP group as expected, had more extensive cardiac and vascular damage (LVMI, PWV and AIx).

Conclusion

In essential hypertensive middle aged men with erectile dysfunction, guiding therapy toward normal systolic blood pressure values as compared to the high normal benefits target organ physiology. It is clinically important to identify this vascular patients group in order to adjust regimens and further therapeutic strategies.
P2644Coronary atherosclerotic burden and risk of major adverse cardiac events in hypertensive patients with erectile dysfunction
Authors: Ioakeimidis N , Vlachopoulos C , Terentes-Printzios D , Georgakopoulos C , Oikonomou E , Aznaouridis C , Tousoulis D
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Aim of the study is to assess the prevalence of angiographically coronary artery disease (CAD) and the incidence of future cardiovascular (CV) events among hypertensive males with erectile dysfunction (ED) on the basis of calculated total CV risk at first presentation.

Methods

A total of 392 hypertensive ED patients without diabetes or known cardiovascular disease underwent a comprehensive evaluation for presence of target organ damage (TOD) and stratified into three total CV risk categories based on blood pressure (BP) category, CV risk factors, TOD and presence of chronic kidney disease. Total testosterone (TT) and peak systolic velocity (PSV) at penile arteries were measured as markers of ED severity and predictors of CV risk. All patients underwent exercise treadmill test and stress echocardiography to reveal myocardial ischemia. Men with positive one or both of the two tests were referred for coronary angiography in order to document CAD. Our primary outcome was a composite measure which included acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke, congestive heart failure, revascularization with either percutaneous coronary intervention or coronary artery bypass graft surgery. All patients were followed from cohort entry until major CV event, or end of study period (December 2018), whichever occurred first.

Results

The whole population was divided into high (n=176), intermediate (n=120) and low (n=96) total CV risk groups. The three groups had similar mean age (57 yrs). The prevalence of angiographically documented CAD was significantly higher among patients in the high risk group (n=32, 18%), compared to intermediate (n=15, 12.5%) and low risk (n=4, 4.1%) (overall P<0.05). Furthermore, there was a progressive decrease in penile PSV and TT levels from low to moderate and high total CV risk (35 vs 31 vs 28 cm/s and 5.1 vs 4.3 vs 3.8 ng/ml, respectively, overall P<0.001), indicating significant microvascular damage and androgen deficiency in men with a higher CV risk category. Interestingly, Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a comparable incidence of major CV events in patients who were at high and intermediate total CV risk at entry (12.5% vs. 11%, respectively, log-rank =0.57) and a greater incidence of major CV events compared to that of low CV risk patients (3.2%), (log-rank P=0.004, for all comparisons) during a 9-year follow-up period (figure).

CV events during a 9-year follow-up

Conclusion

The incidence of future CV events is considerably high among hypertensive ED patients with a intermediate total CV risk at first evaluation. Such patients may require a comprehensive evaluation to reveal occult CAD and they need an aggressive management of BP and concomitant risk factors to reduce their CV risk and improve their sexual life.
P2648Uncontrolled hypertension is common among patients with implanted pacemaker
Authors: Sharma V , Tasgaonkar M , Abeyratne A
Published: October 2019

Background

Given the significance of hypertension (HTN) as a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, stroke, HF, and mortality, uncontrolled HTN remains a large public health problem. Pacemaker patients are well trapped in the healthcare system, and hence are expected to have a lower rate of uncontrolled HTN than general HTN patient population. However, incidence of uncontrolled HTN in pacemaker patients is not well characterized.

Purpose

We sought to characterize the prevalence of uncontrolled HTN in pacemaker patients using real-world EHR data.

Methods

Patients who received an implanted pacemaker were identified from a large EHR de-identified database of a cohort of patients with or at risk of cardiovascular disease from 01/2007 to 03/2017. The data were queried to determine prevalence of uncontrolled HTN.

Results

From a total of 11,472,727 patients in the EHR dataset, a total of 140,701 (1.23%) had implanted pacemaker with implant date available. Of these 72,846 (51.8%) had systolic blood pressure (SBP) available within 60 days of device implant. Depending on SBP cut-off, the proportion of patients with uncontrolled HTN ranged from 32.9% (SBP>140 mmHg) to 11.5% (SBP>160 mmHg) at the time of implant. A subset (11,676, 16%) had SBP available at implant and one-year post-implant. At one year time point uncontrolled HTN in these patients ranged from 20.8% (SBP>140 mmHg) to 2.4% (SBP>160 mmHg) (Figure).

Conclusion

A significant proportion of pacemaker patients have uncontrolled HTN at the time of implant. While there is a decline in this proportion at one year, substantial proportion of pacemaker patients remain with uncontrolled HTN. In addition to better guideline directed medical therapy, there may be an opportunity for better monitoring and alternative therapeutic strategies in these patients.

Acknowledgement/Funding

Medtronic Inc.
P2655ST-elevation myocardial infarction in women: a more satisfactory outcome?
Authors: Ferreira J , Freitas F , Ferreira C , Milner J , Alves P , Marinho V , Domingues C , Monteiro S , Baptista R , Goncalves L
Published: October 2019

Background

Despite all the advances registered in the last decade regarding acute myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation (STEMI) treatment, this entity remains prevalent and highly lethal. Women constitute a lower proportion of STEMI patients, however, they show important differences when compared to men. Thanks to the lower representation of women in STEMI trials, less is know about this patient subpopulation.

Purpose

To determine and understand gender differences in patients admitted with STEMI in a coronary care unit (CCU).

Methods

Observational retrospective study of patients admitted with STEMI in a CCU, between 2006 and 2017. Patients were split between groups according to gender and were assessed in terms of risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, complications and mortality.

Results

A total of 2516 patients were included in the study. 1833 were men (72.9%) and 682 were women (27.1%). Mean age was superior in women (73.3±13.2 vs. 64.1±12.8 years, p<0.001), and displayed a greater cardiovascular comorbidity burden such as hypertension (79.6% vs. 66.2%, p<0.001) and diabetes (55.8% vs. 45.3%, p<0.001). At admission time women registered a higher mean TIMI (2.79 vs. 2.62, p=0.009) and GRACE score (166.3 vs. 146.3, p<0.001) which did not reflect in a higher hospital stay (mean 4.75 vs. 5.29 days, p=0.043). Before admission women were less treated with aspirin (26.4% vs. 33.2%, p=0.014) and statins (36.8% vs. 46.5%, p=0.001). There were no differences regarding access to revascularization (98% vs. 96.5%, p=0.105) but women presented more normal coronary angiographies (10.2% vs. 3.6%, p<0.001). During hospital stay, women evolved more to Killip-Kimball (KK) class III (4.5% vs. 1.9%, p<0.001) and KK class IV (15.9% vs. 11.2%, p<0.001). Intra-hospital (13.9% vs. 8.2%, p<0.001), 1-month (18.4% vs. 13.2%, p<0.001), 6-month (22.2% vs. 16.1%, p<0.001) and 1-year mortality (25.7% vs. 17.8%, p<0.01) was superior in women. After multivariate analysis heart failure on admission (OR 9.2, CI 95% 6.7–12.8), intravenous amiodarone use (OR 3.5, CI 95% 2.5–4.8), diabetes (OR 2.3, CI 95% 1.8–2.8), female gender (OR 1.6, CI 95% 1.3–2.0) and peak serum creatinine during hospital stay (OR 1.7, CI 95% 1.6–1.9) were independent predictors of 1-year mortality. After adjustment for age, diabetes, hypertension, previous acute myocardial infarction and initial KK, female gender maintained its potency as a significant 1-year mortality predictor.

Conclusions

Women presenting with STEMI register poorer outcomes compared to men. In our study, female gender was considered a good independent predictor of short-term and long-term mortality.
P2656Real-world Outcomes for STEMI in octogenarians and nonagenarians: A 5-year review from an Irish primary PCI centre
Authors: Kumar R , Homer C E , Buckley A , Kumar J , O'conner C , Chongprasertpon N , Arnous S , Ullah I , Kiernan T
Published: October 2019

Background

Progress made by modern healthcare has led to improved life expectancy across the globe. This progress, however, also means that individuals are living with more chronic illnesses and co-morbidities than in previous generations. Due to this aging population, we can expect increasing rates of STEMI in octogenarians and nonagenarians in the future. The challenge of older patients with STEMI is that they are particularly high-risk for complications. At present, very little is known about the outcomes of STEMI in the very old population because they were under-represented in previous studies. Many cardiologists around the world have been hesitant in performing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in octogenarians and nonagenarians due to fear of complications and poor outcomes.

Purpose

To review the trend of octogenarians and nonagenarians presenting with STEMI and to assess the 30-day and 1-year mortality rates.

Methods

A single-centre retrospective observational study was conducted. All patients presenting with STEMI between January 2012 and December 2017 were reviewed. Individuals aged 80 years or older were included for the purpose of this analysis. Patient level data was collected by chart review and individuals were identified using the local STEMI database. Standard Bayesian statistics were employed for analysis.

Results

1,268 patients presented with STEMI during this period. 172 (13.6%) were 80 years or older. Of this subgroup, 159/172 (92.4%) were true STEMI (figure 1). 124/159 (77.9%) patients were brought to the catheterization lab and 35/159 (22%) were managed medically on the ward.107/159 (67.29%) were treated with PPCI. Patients in the PPCI group had a 30-day mortality rate of 20.6% while those in the medically managed group had a mortality rate of 37.1%; with a trend towards statistical significance (p=0.07). The one-year mortality rate in patients treated with PPCI was 22.4% which was significantly lower than those who received medical management 48.6% (p=0.005).

Conclusions

This review demonstrates that there is a high mortality rate with STEMI in those aged 80 years or above, however, patients who are treated with PPCI tend to do better and have a significantly lower mortality rate at 1-year. The incidence of STEMI in the very old cohort is likely to continue to rise and this may prove challenging. PPCI remains the most feasible treatment approach towards STEMI and this should not be biased based on age, however, interventionists will need to take into account patient suitability on a case-by case basis. Octogenarians who undergo angiography and PPCI as required have 77.6% survival at 1 year (figure 1) with 92.4% likelihood of going home and don't require long term nursing home care.

Acknowledgement/Funding

University Hospital Limerick
P2657Prognostic impact of skeletal muscle mass in upper and lower extremities in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Satou R , Akiyama E , Konishi M , Matsuzawa Y , Kimura Y , Okada K , Maejima N , Iwahashi N , Hibi K , Kosuge M , Ebina T , Tamura K , Kimura K
Published: October 2019

Introduction

Sarcopenia, characterized by the loss of skeletal muscle mass and muscle strength, has been demonstrated the importance in cardiovascular diseases including ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, there is few data comparing the effects on the prognosis of skeletal muscle mass of upper and lower extremities in STEMI patients.

Purpose

Our purpose was to examine whether skeletal muscle mass of upper and lower extremities affect the prognosis after STEMI.

Methods

A total of 432 patients with STEMI were enrolled in this study. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan was performed before discharge. Each of upper and lower extremity skeletal muscle masses was indexed by height squared (kg/m2), and divided into two groups using the first quartile value for each sex. All patients were followed up for the primary composite outcome of all-cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal ischemic stroke, hospitalization for congestive heart failure, and unplanned revascularization.

Results

During a median follow-up of 32 months, 68 patients experienced primary composite outcome. The event rate was significantly higher in patients with low-lower extremity skeletal muscle mass index (LESMI) than in those with high-LESMI (24.3% vs 12.9%, log-rank p<0.001), as well as in those with low-upper extremity muscle mass index than in those with high-upper extremity muscle mass index (UESMI) (19.6% vs 14.5%, log-rank p=0.047). However, after adjustment for age, gender, renal function, diabetes mellitus, infarct size, body mass index, and body fat percentage, only low-LESMI was independently and significantly associated with the primary composite outcome (adjusted hazard ratio for LESMI 2.11, 95%-confidence interval 1.06–4.14, p=0.034, adjusted hazard ratio for UESMI 1.04, 95%-confidence interval 0.52–2.08, p=0.906,).

Conclusions

Decreased muscle mass of lower extremity, rather than upper extremity, might have prognostic impact in patients with STEMI.
P2668Causes and predictors of 30 and 90 days readmission after cardiac arrest: insights from the nationwide readmission database
Authors: Elkaryoni A , Thakker J , Barakat A F , Ellakany K , Khan G , Elkafrawy A , Younis M
Published: October 2019

Background

Cardiac arrest (CA) is a lethal condition with high public health burden and grave long-term implications. We aimed to evaluate the rate and predictors of readmission after CA

Methods

We used the Nationwide Readmission Database 2014 to determine patient with index admission CA by using relevant ICD-9 codes. We excluded patients <18 years and admissions in October, November, and December to allow 90 days readmission follow up. We evaluated rates and causes of 30 and 90 days readmission. We investigated disposition options for CA survivors and rates of readmissions. Multivariable analysis was done for relevant variables to demonstrated predictors of readmission.

Results

A total cohort of 71,780 patients suffered CA and survived to hospital discharge. Mean age was 63.9±15 years and 61.3% were males. Mean length of stay was 14.2±18.3 days, primary payer was Medicare 58%, 42.2% were discharged home, 33% to skilled nursing/intermediate care facility, 18.5% to home with home health services, 5% to short term hospital, and 0.8% left against medical advice (AMA). All-cause 30 and 90 days readmission rates were 18% and 28.9%, respectively. According to each disposition group 30/90 days readmission rates were; home 13.6/23%, facility 22/35.7%, home health 21/31.9%, short term hospital 16.8/24.1%, and 33.7/42.4% left AMA. The most common causes of readmission at 30 and 90 days were congestive heart failure and infection (11% each). CA on readmission was 1.5% at 30 and 90 days. The most common predictors of readmission were CHF odds ratio (OR) 1.3, (95% CI: 1.3–1.4; P<0.001), renal failure OR 1.7, (95% CI: 1.7–1.8; P<0.001), chronic lung disease OR 1.3, (95% CI: 1.2–1.; P<0.001), and depression OR 1.1 (95% CI: 1.1–1.2; P<0.001).

Conclusion

Readmissions are common at 30 and 90 days in CA survivors and are associated with high cost. CHF and infection are the most common causes of 30 and 90-day readmission, while renal failure is the strongest predictor of readmission after adjusting for unbalanced covariates. Discharge to home was the most common disposition, and had the lowest rate for readmission. Leaving AMA had the highest rate of readmission.
P2677A combination of HEART score and a 0-hour/1-hour algorithm for early and safe triage tool for patients in observe zone
Authors: Shiozaki M , Inoue K , Suwa S , Lee C C , Chiang S J , Shimizu M , Fukuda K , Hiki M , Kubota N , Tamura H , Fujiwara Y , Sumiyoshi M , Daida H
Published: October 2019

Background

The European Society Cardiology guidelines recommend that a 0-hour/1-hour (0–1hr) algorithm using high sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs-cTnT) improves the early triage of patients with suspected non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). However, diagnostic uncertainty remains in the 25–30% of patients assigned to “observe” group.

Purpose

To establish a step wise risk score system using HEART score and 0-hour/1-hour algorithm to identify the low risk group from observation group.

Methods

This study was a prospective, multi-center, observational study of patients with suspected NSTE-ACS admitted to five hospitals in Japan and Taiwan from 2014 to 2018, respectively. We applied the algorithm and calculated HEART score simultaneously. Patients were divided into three groups according to the algorithm: hs-cTnT below 12 ng/L and delta 1 hour below 3 ng/L were the “rule out” group; hs-cTnT at least 52 ng/L or delta 1 hour at least 5 ng/L were in the “rule in” group; the remaining patients were classified as the “observe” group. All patients underwent a clinical assessment the included medical history, physical examination, 12-lead ECG, continuous ECG monitoring, pulse oximetry, standard blood test, chest radiography, cardiac and abdominal ultrasonography. Patients presenting with congestive heart failure, terminal kidney disease on hemodialysis state, arrhythmia, or infection disease (which causes to increase troponin level) were excluded. Thirty-day MACE was defined as acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina (UA), or death.

Results

Of the 1,332 patients enrolled, 933 patients were analyzed after exclusion. NSTE-ACS was the final diagnosis for 122 (13.1%) patients and none of death. The HEART score less than 4 points in observation groups identified as very low risk with a negative predictive value (NPV) of 98.1% (95% confidential interval (CI); 90.1%-100%) and sensitivity of 98.0% (95% CI; 89.6%-100%). There were only one patient (0.5%) with AMI. In case of the HEART score less than 5 points, it could also identify as very low risk with a NPV of 96.7% (95% CI; 90.8%-99.3%%) and sensitivity of 94.1% (95% CI; 83.8%-98.8%). There were only three patients (1.2%) with AMI.

Conclusion

A combination of HEART score and the 0-hour/1-hour algorithm strategy rapidly identified the patient in observation group of 30-day MACE including UA where nor further cardiac testing would be needed.

Acknowledgement/Funding

JSPS KAKENHI Grant Number JP18K09554
P2686Endothelial reaction mediates enhanced external counterpulsation effects in post-MI cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Shishkin D V , Mikheev S L , Neznanov V V
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The mechanisms mediating benefits of enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) are disputable since the origin of the method. One of the possible explanations presumes increased diastolic flow leads to changes of endothelial function and plays a crucial role in alleviating the symptoms of angina and heart failure; the exact mechanisms of action are still under investigation, though the endothelial hypothesis possesses strong evidence.

Purpose

To reveal the impact of repeated EECP on endothelial function of patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation program after myocardial infarction (MI) and to identify possible clinical implications of these changes.

Methods

The randomized sham-controlled study included 46 patients with coronary artery disease who suffered from ST-elevation MI (STEMI) 4–8 weeks prior to enrollment in 2017–2018. All patients had undergone primary PCI due to STEMI in 2–24 hours after the event. Echo parameters, exercise tolerance and the levels of ADMA and nitric oxide (NO) metabolites (total content, nitrite and nitrate) in plasma were determined at the enrollment stage and at three month follow-up. Patients were randomized and given 35 h of active counterpulsation (main group, n=24) or inactive counterpulsation (control group, n=22) over a six-week period after enrollment.

Results

The analysis showed no significant difference between groups at baseline: mean ejection fraction was 46% in the main group and 45% in the control group, no difference in exercise tolerance. The mean characteristics of endothelial function at baseline were similar in both main and control groups: total NO metabolites (17.3±2.14 μmol/L vs. 19.6±3.31, p=0. 42), nitrite level (0.76±0.17 μmol/L vs. 0.75±0.21, p=0. 36), ADMA level (0.78±0.15 μmol/L vs. 0.81±0.20, p=0. 22). At three month follow up 41,7% of patients of the main group showed improvement of one class of NYHA classification compared to 22,7% in the control group (U=122.3, p=0.012), agreed with improved exercise tolerance: average +2.8 MET in main group in opposite to only +0.8 MET in the controls (U=104, p=0.007). Control group demonstrated no significant dynamics of NO metabolites concentration comparing to baseline values, while in the main group there was a significant decrease of ADMA – 0.57±0.11 μmol/L (Z=r=−2.46, p=0.013) and increase of nitrite level – 1,12±0. 18 μmol/L (Z=r=−2.57, p=0.011), with no changes in total NO metabolites content. The further analysis demonstrated strong correlation between exercise capacity gain and ADMA decrease (R=r=−0.52, p=0.008) or nitrite elevation (R=0.48, p=0.012), with ADMA/nitrite ratio being the strongest predictor of clinical improvement (R=0.68, p=0.002).

Conclusion

Active EECP improves exercise capacity and heart failre symptoms in patients undergoing post-MI rehabilitation, with those effects being associated with endothelial function enhancement.