bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statin therapy intensity and physical activity after acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Boudon A , Locatelli I , Gencer B , Carballo D , Klingenberg R , Raeber L , Windecker S , Rodondi N , Luescher T F , Matter C M , Mach F M , Muller O , Nanchen D
Published: October 2022

Introduction/Purpose

High-intensity statin after acute coronary syndrome (ACS) may cause reduced physical activity because of statin-associated muscle symptoms. We aimed to assess the association between statin intensity and physical activity one year after ACS.

Methods

We studied patients from the Special Program University Medicine-Acute Coronary Syndromes (SPUM-ACS) study, a large multicenter prospective Swiss cohort. In a cross-sectional assessment one year after the index ACS, we identified high-intensity, low/moderate intensity, and no statin users. Physical activity was assessed with the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Using a multivariable adjusted negative binomial hurdle model, metabolic equivalent-minutes per week (MET-min/week) were first stratified into sedentary and physically active categories, and then analyzed continuously among physically active patients. Models were adjusted for age, sex, education, body mass index, depression, type of ACS, pre-existing chronic disease, premature coronary heart disease, LDL-cholesterol, anti-hypertensive treatment, cardiac rehabilitation, and follow-up medical visits after hospital discharge.

Results

Among the 2274 patients included in the SPUM-ACS cohort, 1222 (53.7%) were on high intensity statin, 890 (39.1%) on low/moderate intensity statin, and 162 (7.1%) were not on statin. Compared to no statin users, low/moderate intensity statin users were more likely to be physically active than sedentary, with a fully adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 2.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11–6.93. A similar association was found when comparing non-users with high-intensity statin users, with a fully adjusted OR of 4.18, 95% CI 1.65–10.60. Among physically active patients, physical activity level median scores were 2792.5 MET-min/week in no statin category, 2712.0 and 2839.5 in moderate/low statin category and high statin category respectively (p=0.307), showing no statistically significant difference with median ratios of 1.02, 95% CI 0.84–1.22 and 1.06, 95% CI of 0.88–1.27 for low/moderate intensity and high-intensity statin use, respectively.

Conclusion

One year after an ACS, neither low/moderate nor high-intensity statin was associated with reduced physical activity compared to no statin use. These findings go against the belief that statin therapy may lead to reduced physical activity among ACS patients because of associated muscular symptoms.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Center for primary care and public health (Unisanté)
Association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and all-cause mortality after aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis
Authors: Myagmardorj R I N , Nabeta T , Hirasawa K , Singh G , Van Der Kley F , De Weger A , Ajmone Marsan N , J Bax J , Delgado V
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and aortic stenosis (AS) are the most common diseases in aging population that their prevalence and percental change in mortality increase over the years. In severe AS, aortic valve replacement (AVR) is the only treatment that has demonstrated to improve survival, however the presence of comorbidities increases the operative risk and influences negatively on the outcomes after AVR. Therefore, the definition of COPD varies across the studies and is not always based on the use of pulmonary functional tests. Accordingly, the aim of the present study is to evaluate the association between pulmonary functional parameters and all-cause mortality after AVR in a large cohort of patients with severe AS.

Methods

Total of 400 patients (78.0 year-old, 56.7% men) with severe AS and documented preoperative pulmonary functional test (PFT) were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic and clinical characteristics were collected from electronic medical records while echocardiography was performed and measured according to the recommendations. PFTs were performed prior to AVR and categories defined in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) Adult Cardiac Surgery Database: normal pulmonary function was defined by an FEV1 >75% of predicted; mild COPD if FEV1 was 60–75% of predicted; moderate COPD if FEV1 was 50–59% of predicted and severe COPD when FEV1 <50% of predicted.

Results

Mild, moderate and severe COPD were documented in 75 (19%), 31 (8%) and 22 (5%) while the remaining 68% had normal PFTs. Patients with moderate and severe COPD had significantly larger LV mass and LV end-systolic volume whereas LV ejection fraction was significantly lower. The FVC, FEV1, Tiffeneau index, VC, PEF, and IC were the worst among patients with moderate and severe COPD (per definition) (p<0.0001). Over a median follow-up of 32 months, 92 (23%) patients died. The survival rates were significantly lower in patients with moderate and severe COPD (Log rank p=0.003, Figure 1). In multivariable Cox regression analysis, some clinical factors and COPD were independently associated with all-cause mortality (table 1). Remarkably, any grade of COPD was associated with 2-fold increased risk of all cause-mortality (HR 1.933; 95% CI 1.166–3.204; p=0.011 for mild COPD and HR 2.028; 95% CI 1.154–3.564; p=0.014 for moderate/ severe COPD, separately).

Conclusion

Patients with moderate and severe COPD had higher LV hypertrophy and reduced LV ejection fraction while PFT parameters were the worst among these patients. The survival rates were significantly lower in patients with moderate and severe COPD compared with patients without COPD. In addition to other clinical factors, any grade of COPD was associated with 2-fold increased risk of all cause-mortality.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Impact of dexamethasone on cardiac injury in critically ill COVID-19 patients
Authors: Van Almsick V , Jirak P , Dimitroulis D , Mirna M , Seelmaier C , Shomanova Z , Semo D , Dankl D , Mahringer M , Lichtenauer M , Hoppe U , Reinecke H , Larbig R , Motloch L , Pistulli R
Published: October 2022

Aims/Background

Severe COVID-19 pneumonia requiring intensive care treatment remains a clinical challenge to date. Dexamethasone was reported as a promising treatment option, leading to a reduction of mortality rates in severe COVID-19 disease as well as ventilator-dependent days. However, the effect of dexamethasone treatment on cardiovascular outcomes including cardiac injury monitored by cardiac enzymes remains largely elusive.

Methods

For this study, we retrospectively screened 224 consecutive COVID-19 patients between 4/2020 and 1/2021 in three Europeen Hospitals. To avoid bias effects of further applied COVID-19 specific medications including tacilizumab, remdesevir and sarilumab, 46 patients treated with at least one of these substances were excluded from further analyses. In total 178 critically ill COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care treatment and mechanical ventilation were recruited. 113 patients (63.5%) were treated with dexamethasone for a median duration of 10 days (IQR 9–10). 65 patients (36.5%) constituted the non-dexamethasone group. The assessment of cardiac injury was based on cardiac enzymes.

Results

Baseline charactaristics shown in Tab. 1. While peak inflammatory markers seemed to be reduced by dexamethasone treatment (CRP and a trend towards decrease of interleukin 6 levels (CRP maximum level: median: 20 ng/mL (IQR 12–28) vs. 22 ng/mL (IQR 14–37), p=0.043; IL-6 maximum level: median: 192 pg/mL (IQR 78–533) vs. 708 pg/mL (550–885), p=0.085), in the dexamethasone Group also shown a significant reduction in peak troponine levels as shown in Figure 1. CK and CK-MB do not differ significantly by Dexamethasone application. Of note, no significant changes in baseline characteristics were observed between the dexamethasone and non-dexamethasone group (Table 1).

Conclusion

In severe COVID-19, antiinflammatory effects of dexamethasone treatment could be associated with a significant reduction in myocardial injury. Further studies should further evaluate whether Dexamethasone effects directly myocardial involvement in COVID 19.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Prognostic value of right ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with inferior ST elevated myocardial infarction
Authors: El Amrawy A , Zaghloul S , El Sharkawy E , Sobhy M
Published: October 2022

Background

Right ventricle infarction (RVI) is predominantly a complication of inferior wall myocardial infarction; it occurs in approximately one third of these patients. Right ventricle dysfunction in patients with inferior STEMI and RV infarction was under assessed. Nevertheless, studies which targeted RV assessment by echocardiography, did not evaluate RV diastolic dysfunction.

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to evaluate RV diastolic dysfunction and its prognostic value in patients with inferior STEMI and RVI.

Methods

Sixty patients with inferior STEMI and RV infarction, who underwent primary PCI were enrolled in the study. Presence of a pre-existing clinical conditions that might affect RV function, were excluded. Echocardiography was performed within twenty-four hours following the PCI, to assess the RV systolic and diastolic functions with special focus on tricuspid inflow velocities (E velocity, A velocity and E/A ratio) by pulsed wave (PW) doppler and tricuspid annular velocities by tissue doppler index (TDI) (e', a' and E/e' ratio). Clinical features and MACE, including cardiogenic shock, arrhythmia, stroke, reinfarction and death were analyzed in all our patients within 3 months follow up period.

Results

The average age of the study population was 51.58±10.11 years, 10% were females. Five patients developed MACE (death, cardiogenic shock and pulmonary oedema, anterior STEMI and cardiogenic shock, recurrent inferior STEMI, and arrhythmia and stroke), of whom four occurred in hospital within the first 48 hours. Patients who developed MACE had high filling pressures, as all of them had E/e' >6. E' velocity ≤6 cm/s was associated with increased MACE as 25% of patients with e' velocity ≤6 cm/s had MACE compared with 2.3% of patients with e' velocity >6 cm/s with a P value of 0.015.

Conclusions

Because tricuspid inflow velocities by PW doppler varies with respiration, volume status and other conditions, tricuspid annular velocities by TDI are essential when evaluating RV diastolic dysfunction. E/e' and e' has a prognostic value in patients with Inferior STEMI and RV infarction.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Impact of multivessel versus single-vessel disease on the association between low diastolic blood pressure and mortality after acute myocardial infarction with revascularization
Authors: Kim M , Bae J W B , Bae J W B , Hwang K K H
Published: October 2022

Background

Previous studies demonstrated a J-shaped relationship between low diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and adverse clinical outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) that was sensitive to revascularization. We hypothesized that this relationship differs between patients with multivessel disease (MVD) and those with single-vessel disease due to differing degrees of myocardial ischemic burden.

Methods

Among 9,983 AMI patients from the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry database who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention and were followed up for a median duration of 3.2 years, average on-treatment DBP was calculated at admission, discharge, and every scheduled visit and divided into <70 mmHg, 70–74 mmHg, 75–79 mmHg, and ≥80 mmHg. The relationship between average on-treatment DBP and clinical outcomes including all-cause death, cardiovascular (CV) death, non-CV death, and _hospitalization for heart failure was analyzed using Cox regression models adjusted for clinical covariates.

Results

In patients with MVD, all-cause death (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06–2.04) and CV death (HR: 1.59; 95% CI: 1.02–2.46) were significantly increased in patients with a DBP <70 mmHg, showing a J-shaped relationship. However, these findings were not significant for single-vessel disease. On a sensitivity analysis excluding subjects with a baseline SBP <120 mmHg, an increased risk of a low DBP <70 mmHg remained in MVD.

Conclusions

The J-shaped relationship between low DBP and adverse clinical outcomes in AMI patients who underwent revascularization persisted in MVD, which has a high ischemic burden. These high-risk patients require cautious treatment.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Prognostic impact of right ventricular strain in isolated severe tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Hinojar Baydes R , Garcia-Martin A , Gonzalez-Gomez A , Monteagudo J M , Garcia-Lunar I , Rivas S , Sanroman M , Pardo A , Sanchez-Recalde A , Zamorano J L , Fernandez-Golfin C
Published: October 2022

Background

Right ventricular (RV) systolic function is determinant in the evaluation of patients with severe tricuspid regurgitation (TR). Timely detection of RV dysfunction with conventional 2D echocardiography is challenging. RV strain has emerged as an accurate and sensitive tool for evaluation of RV function with the capability of detecting subclinical RV dysfunction.

Purpose

This study was aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of RV strain parameters in consecutive stable patients with severe TR.

Methods

Consecutive patients in stable clinical status with at least severe TR (severe, massive or torrential TR) evaluated in the Heart Valve Clinic following a comprehensive clinical protocol were included. Patients with previous episodes of heart failure or scheduled for TV intervention were excluded. RV systolic function was measured with conventional echocardiographic indices (RV fractional area change [FAC], tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion [TAPSE], DTI S wave [`S]) and with Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) derived automatic peak global and free wall longitudinal strain (RV-GLS and RV-FWLS respectively) using the EPIQ system (Philips Medical Systems, Andover, Massachusetts). A combined endpoint of hospital admission due to heart failure (HF) or all-cause mortality was defined. The interobserver variability of RV strain was assessed in 20 randomly selected patients.

Results

A total of 176 patients were included in this study. Strain parameters detected higher percentage of RV dysfunction compared to conventional indices (figure 1). After a median follow-up of 28 months (IQR: 15–48 months), n=65 patients (37%) reached the combined endpoint. 65 (37%) were admitted for right heart failure and 8% of the population (n=14) died. Cumulative event-free survival was significantly worse in patients with impaired RV-GLS and RV-FWLS. Conventional indices of RV systolic function were not associated with outcomes (p>0.05 for all). In a multivariable analysis (in a model including NYHA class, BNP values, biplane VC, RV end-diastolic area, and RV-FWLS), RV-FWLS was an independent predictors of heart failure and CV mortality (figure 1 and 2; LR χ2: 40.2, p<0.001). Inter-observer agreements for RV strain values were high (intraclass correlation coefficient for RV-GLS and RV-FWLS, r=0.96 and r=0.98 respectively)

Conclusion

Clinical outcomes demonstrate that RV strain parameters are superior to conventional indices of RV function in patients with isolated ≥ severe TR and absence of previous episodes of heart failure. Among all parameters of RV function, RV-FWLS is the strongest independent predictor of mortality and HF.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Instituto Carlos III
The effect of P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy according to bleeding risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Woelders E C I , Luijkx J P , Rodwell L , Winkler P J C , Dimitriu-Leen A C , Smits P C , Van Royen N , Van 'T Hof A W J , Damman P , Van Geuns R J M
Published: October 2022

Background/Introduction

P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy is a promising novel strategy to reduce bleeding complications compared to DAPT. To determine which patients benefit most, we investigated the effect according to bleeding risk.

Purpose

The study aim was to analyse the safety and efficacy of P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy versus dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with and without high bleeding risk (HBR).

Methods

PubMed was searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy to DAPT after PCI. Risk ratios (RR) and adjusted risk differences (ARD) of net adverse clinical events (NACE), major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE) and major bleedings were calculated according to bleeding risk.

Results

Five RCTs including 31750 patients were selected. Monotherapy reduced major bleeding significantly in all patients (HBR: RR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.46 to 0.85; non-HBR: RR 0.58, 95% CI: 0.41 to 0.82) with a higher ARD in patients with HBR versus non-HBR. There was no difference between treatment effects on MACCE in both subgroups. Next to the expected higher number of bleeding events, we found an increase in MACCE in patients with HBR which resulted in a non-significant reduction of NACE (RR 0.89, 95% CI: 0.77 to 1.04). In patients without HBR, NACE was significantly reduced by monotherapy (RR 0.80, 95% CI: 0.67 to 0.96).

Conclusions

P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy post PCI reduces bleeding complications without increasing ischemic events compared to DAPT, regardless of bleeding risk. HBR patients experience more bleeding and ischemic events without a net benefit of monotherapy.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
To pretreat or not no pretreat with dual antiplatelet therapy in non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome patients: that is the question
Authors: Abella Vallina D , Cazorla Morallon D , Perez Rivera J A , Cordero Fort A
Published: October 2022

Background

The timing for the initiation of dual antiplatelet treatment (DAPT) in patients with non-ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE-ACS) is controversial and the 2020 ESC guidelines suppressed the recommendation of routine pre-treatment. The aim of our study was to assess the effect of pretreatment on clinical outcomes according to the available evidence.

Methods

We conducted a meta-analysis of the main studies on pretreatment with P2Y12 receptor inhibitors in patients with NSTE-ACS. After a systematic review, we included four randomized clinical trials (PCI-CURE, ACCOAST, ISAR-REACT 5, and DUBIUS), and one observational study (SCAAR). Data was analyzed using the inverse variance method, using a fixed effects model since no statistically significant heterogeneity was observed.

Results

A total of 75,345 patients were included, 65,134 patients who followed a systematic pretreatment strategy with DAPT and 10,211 patients with a simple antiplatelet strategy with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and administration of a second antiplatelet during angiography and prior to angioplasty. No significant differences were observed in cardiovascular mortality (odds ratio [OR] 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.90 to 1.60; P=0.2184) or acute stent thrombosis (OR 0.88; 95% CI, 0.65 to 1.18; p=0.3866). However, a significant increase in major bleeding was observed (OR 1.42; 95% CI, 1.15 to 1.75; p=0.0011).

Conclusions

Routine pretreatment with DAPT in patients with suspected NSTE-ACS is not associated with a decrease in cardiovascular death or an increase in acute stent thrombosis and, however, it is associated with a significant increase in major bleeding.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Comparative efficacy and safety of ticagrelor vs. prasugrel in patients undergoing PCI for NSTE-ACS. Results of the prospective ALKK-Registry
Authors: Zeymer U , Hochadel M , Schaechinger V , Zahn R
Published: October 2022

Background

Dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor has become standard of care for patients with NSTE-ACS. Guidelines recommend prasugrel and ticagrelor over clopidogrel. In the ISAR-5 trial prasugrel was superior to ticagrelor in NSTE-ACS patients. We evaluated the outcome of patients undergoing PCI for NSTE-ACS in a large number of patients in real life and compared patients treated with prasugrel and ticagrelor.

Methods

We used the data of the prospective German ALKK-PCI registry and included patients treated with prasugrel or ticagrelor and undergoing PCI for NSTE-ACS treated in 42 centers. Baseline variables, procedural features, antithrombotic therapies and in-hospital outcomes were centrally collected and analysed. Patients with cardiogenic shock were excluded.

Results

Between 2011 and 2020 a total of 7888 patients <75 years without prior stroke undergoing PCI for NSTE-ACS were included. Of these 4905 (62.2%) patients were treated with ticagrelor and 2983 (37.8%) were treated with prasugrel. Baseline characteristics, procedural features and in-hospital outcomes are given in the table.

Conclusion

In clinical practice in patients with NSTE-ACS undergoing PCI ticagrelor was used more often than prasugrel. Ticagrelor treated patients were older and had more comorbidities. Despite this higher risk profile in ticagrelor patients the in-hospital mortality and the short-term safety profile were comparable in both groups.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): Institut für Herzinfarktforschung Ludwigshafen
Intracoronary thrombolysis facilitated primary percutaneous coronary intervention in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients: an updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Alexiou S , Patoulias D , Theodoropoulos K , Kassimis G
Published: October 2022

Background

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is the standard reperfusion treatment in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, PPCI is often complicated by microvascular obstruction. Intracoronary thrombolysis (ICT) may mitigate thrombotic burden.

Methods

We conducted, according to the PRISMA statement, the largest meta-analysis of ICT as adjuvant therapy to PPCI. All relevant studies were identified by searching the PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, with no time or language restriction. The odds ratio (OR) and mean difference (MD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Studies included STEMI patients undergoing PPCI receiving ICT. Both safety and efficacy outcomes were analyzed. Data were combined using a random-effects model.

Results

Thirteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving a total of 1876 (1014 ICT) patients were included. Compared with the control group, ICT in STEMI patients could reduce the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) (OR 0.65, 95% CI, 0.48–0.86, P=0.003) and improve 6 months left ventricular ejection fraction (MD 3.78, 95% CI, 1.53–6.02, P=0.0010). Indices of enhanced myocardial microcirculation were more common with ICT [Post PCI corrected thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) frame count (MD −3.57; 95% CI, −5.00 to −2.14, P<0.00001); myocardial blush grade (MBG) 2/3 (OR 1.76; 95% CI, 1.16–2.69, P=0.008), and complete ST-segment resolution (OR 1.97; 95% CI, 1.33–2.91, P=0.0007). The incidence rate of major bleeding was comparable between the 2 groups (OR 1.27; 95% CI, 0.61–2.63, P=0.53).

Conclusions

Intracoronary thrombolysis was associated with improved MACE and myocardial microcirculation in patients with STEMI undergoing PPCI, without any significant increase in major bleeding. Our meta-analysis suggests that a targeted ICT is safe and potentially effective to improve PPCI. Nonetheless, the above results necessitate verification in a contemporary large RCT.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
30-day outcomes of P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment in patients with STEMI submitted to primary PCI – systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Presume J , Gomes D , Albuquerque F , Aguiar C , Almeida M , Ribeiras R , Uva M S , Ferreira J
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and a P2Y12 inhibitor is the cornerstone of antithrombotic therapy in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Yet, there is uncertainty surrounding the optimal timing for the initiation of the P2Y12 inhibitor. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of P2Y12 pretreatment by means of a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in STEMI.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of electronic databases Pubmed, CENTRAL and Scopus until March of 2021. Studies were considered eligible if they were: a) comparing P2Y12 inhibitor upstream administration vs. treatment during PCI; b) patients enrolled for STEMI and submitted to primary PCI. Studies with patients treated with fibrinolysis or medical therapy only were excluded. Major clinical outcomes included 30-day occurrence of all-cause death, definite stent thrombosis and re-infarction. Thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow-grade pre-PCI and post-PCI, in-hospital cardiogenic shock and major bleeding events were analysed.

Results

Out of 2193 articles, 18 studies were included (1 randomized clinical trial [RCT] and 17 observational studies [non-RCT]), with a total of 76,836 patients, 52,181 in the pretreatment arm. At 30 days, pretreatment was associated with a reduction in definite stent thrombosis (1 RCT & 4 Non-RCT: OR 0.40; 95% CI 0.18–0.90), but no significant reduction in all-cause death (1 RCT & 7 Non-RCT: OR 0.77; 95% CI 0.56–1.04) or re-infacrtion (1 RCT & 4 Non-RCT: OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.49–1.09). Regarding in-hospital outcomes, pretreatment showed a significant reduction in the occurrence of cardiogenic shock (5 Non-RCT: 0.62; 95% CI 0.51–0.79), major bleeding events (1 RCT & 14 Non-RCT: 0.83; 95% CI 0.75–0.92) and in the number of patients with TIMI flow <3 postPCI (1 RCT & 8 Non-RCT: 0.82; 95% CI 0.73–0.93). Pretreatment was not associated with lower number of patients with TIMI flow <3 pre-PCI (1 RCT & 5 Non-RCT: 0.85; 95% CI 0.66–1.09).

Conclusion

Pretreatment with DAPT, including a P2Y12 inhibitor, was associated with lower risk for definite stent thrombosis and cardiogenic shock, but was not associated with lower all-cause death or re-infarction.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Patient knowledge about risk factors, achievement of target values and guideline adherent secondary prevention 12 months after acute myocardial infarction. Results of the prospective GULLIVE-R study
Authors: Zeymer U , Goss F , Werdan K
Published: October 2022

Background

Little is known about patients knowledge about their risk factors and the achievement of target values and ESC guidelines adherent therapies in the chronic phase after an acute myocardial infarction.

Purpose

The prospective GULLIVE-R study aimed to evaluate adherence to guideline recommended secondary prevention, physicians and patients estimation of cardiac risk, and patients knowledge about target values of risk factors about 12 months after acute myocardial infarction.

Methods

We have performed a prospective study enrolling patients 9–12 months after acute myocardial infarction. Guideline recommended secondary prevention therapies and physicians as well as patients estimation about their cardiac risk, as well as patients knowledge about target values were prospectively collected. Guideline recommended secondary drug prevention has been defined as aspirin, a P2Y12 inhibitor, a statin, a beta-blocker, an ACE-I/ARB (5 drugs) and a MRA (6 drugs) in patients with heart failure and/or EF <35%.

Results

Between 07/2019 and 06/2021 a total of 2509 outpatients were enrolled in 150 centres (56% cardiologists) in Germany. The mean age was 66 years, 26.4% were women, 45.3 had STEMI, 54.7% had NSTEMI, 93.6% had revascularization (84. % PCI, 7.4% CABG, 1.8% both). The correct target value for blood pressure was known by the patient in 37.9% and for LDL-C in only 8.2%. The achievement of target values and the rate of guideline recommended therapies are shown in the table.

Conclusions

There is still room for improvement in patient education and implementation of guideline recommended non-pharmacological and pharmacological secondary prevention therapies in patients in the chronic phase after myocardial infarction.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Astra Zeneca
Clinical significance of time-varying on-treatment platelet reactivity after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Park J S , Jeong Y H
Published: October 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to determine the prognostic value of serial measurement of platelet reactivity (PR) using the VerifyNow, P2Y12 reaction unit (PRU) assay following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) during antiplatelet therapy.

Background

On-treatment PR changes over time, but the prognostic value of serial PR measurements has not been defined.

Methods

We enrolled 3204 patients who had PCI and who were measured at PCI and 1 month. We constructed regular and time-dependent Cox proportional hazard models to compare the prognostic value between baseline and serial FU of PR on a primary endpoint of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction (MI) or stroke over a three-year period.

Results

Time-varying PR and baseline PR were both associated with an increased risk of the primary endpoint, but the duration of association with primary endpoint differed. The prognostic value of time-varying PR (adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.008, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.005–1.011, p=0.001) was rapidly decreased until 3 month and no prognostic value of time-varying PR after 3 month (adjusted HR 0.999, 95% CI 0.997–1.002, p=0.683). Baseline PR was associated with an increased risk of primary endpoint upto 1 year (adjusted HR 1.005, 95% CI 1.003–1.008, p<0.001) and no prognostic value of baseline PR after 1 year (adjusted HR 0.999, 95% CI 0.997–1.002, p=0.827) was not noted, which showed more slow reduction of the prognostic value of baseline PR.

Conclusions

Time-varying on-treatment PR reflects more real-world clinical practice. The prognostic value of PR decreased rapidly after PCI and we have to be cautious to use of single time point for the prediction of clinical event using on-treatment PR.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Contrast-induced nephropathy following PCI: can we calculate a safe contrast volume?
Authors: Costa H , Silva M , Santo M E , Mota T , Fernandes R , Palmeiro H , Marto S , Franco P , Carvalho D , Bispo J , Guedes J , Mimoso J , Marreiros A , Vinhas H , Jesus I
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Acute kidney injury (AKI) due to contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) is a common complication after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS), and is associated with prolonged hospitalizations and elevated cardio and renovascular morbidity. Scientific evidence demonstrates that the mean volume of contrast (VolC) and ratio with creatinine clearance (CrCl) (VolC/CrCl) are independent predictors of CIN, but the accepted optimal value remains controversial.

Objective

Population characterization. To evaluate whether the calculation of VolC using the VolC/ClCr ratio <3.7 used in our Cath lab during PCI of ACS allows preventing the development of AKI by CIN, and whether the development of early vs late AKI influences outcomes.

Methods

Retrospective study between 2017/2020, composed of n=378 patients who suffered ACS. Descriptve analysis was carried out regarding the demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients. Chi-Square test was used for categorical variables and the T-Student test for numerical variables, with a significance level of 95%.

Results

A total of 378 patients were identified, with a mean age of 64.5±11.2 years, 78.6% were male. 60.1% had hypertension, 48.4% dyslipidemia, 24.3% diabetes, 2.6% chronic renal failure (CRF) and 1.6% heart failure. Of these, 12.7% developed AKI (<24h in 1.9% vs ≥24h in 10,8%). Indepedent prognostic factors for development of AKI were smokers (AKI ≥24h 7 (4.8%) vs AKI<24h 2 (1.4%), p=0.001), diabetes (AKI≥24h 17 (19%) vs AKI <24h 2 (2.2%), p=0.007), CRF (AKI ≥24h 6 (60%) vs AKI <24h 1 (10%), p=0.001), CrCl (AKI ≥24h 65.8±27.1, p=0.001), ratio VolC/CrCl (AKI ≥24h 3.3±2.5, p=0.001) and LVEF (AKI ≥24h 51.4±9.7, p=0.001). Mortality afected 4.2% of the patients, and was more frequente in AKI subjects (AKI ≥24h 7 (70%) vs AKI <24h 1 (10%), p=0.001). Using a ratio <3.7 allowed to prevent AK <24h but not AKI ≥24h (AKI <24h ratio <3.7 = 3 (1%) vs ratio ≥3.7 = 9 (4.1%), p=0.001) (AKI ≥24 ratio <3.7 = 30 (25%) vs ratio ≥3.7 = 11 (9.7%), p=0.001). A ratio <2.0 allowed to prevent both early and late AKI (AKI <24h ratio <2.0 = 0 (0%) vs ratio ≥2.0 = 7 (4.5%), p=0.001) (AKI ≥24 ratio <2.0 = 11 (5.6%) vs ratio ≥2.0 = 30 (19.1%), p=0.001).

Conclusion

In patients submitted to ACS PCI, the development of AKI increases mortality, especial if AKI emerge after 24h. We report a more suitable ratio VolC/ClCr <2.0, that allow us to calculate a safe VolC that will help to prevent both early and late AKI in selected patients wtih ACS.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Impact of residual coronary lesions on outcomes of myocardial infarction patients with multi-vessel disease
Authors: Ahmed T A N , Othman A A A , Demitry S R , El-Maghraby K M
Published: October 2022

Background

Interest grew in residual disease burden after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The residual SYNTAX score (rSS) is a strong prognostic factor of coronary events and all-cause death in patients who underwent PCI. Its derivative, the SYNTAX Revascularisation Index (SRI), has been used in determining the proportion of coronary artery disease (CAD) that has been treated and has been shown to have prognostic utility in PCI for patients with multi-vessel disease (MVD).

Purpose

We sought to assess the use of the rSS and the SRI as predictors for in-hospital outcomes and up to two-year follow-up outcomes in patients with MVD who underwent PCI in the setting of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) or Non-STEMI (NSTEMI).

Methods

We recruited 149 patients with either STEMI or NSTEMI in the setting of MVD who underwent PCI. We divided them into tertiles, based on their rSS and SRI values, respectively. We calculated bSS and rSS using the latest version of the web-based calculator, and from these scores we calculated SRI. The endpoints were: In-hospital composite MACE and its components, in-hospital mortality, follow-up MACE, and follow-up all-cause mortality up to 2-years.

Results

RSS and SRI were not significant predictors of in-hospital death or MACE, while hypertension, ST-segment resolution, LVEF, and significant left main coronary artery (LMCA) lesions were independent predictors of in-hospital MACE. At two-year follow-up, Kaplan-Meier analysis showed significantly increased incidence of death and MACE within the third rSS tertile (rSS >12) compared to the other tertiles (log rank p<0.001), while there was no significant difference between the three SRI tertiles. RSS and SRI were predictors of death and MACE on univariate Cox regression analysis. On multivariate Cox regression, rSS was an independent predictor for MACE (HR=1.0696, 95% CI: 1.0147–1.1275, p=0.0123) and all-cause mortality (HR=1.1114, 95% CI: 1.0430–1.1842, p=0.0011). Of notice, all patients with complete revascularisation survived throughout the entire follow-up period.

Conclusions

The rSS and SRI were poor predictors of in-hospital death and MACE, while they were good predictors of death and MACE at two-year follow-up, with better overall performance for rSS in comparison to SRI. Patients with rSS values >12 showed significantly higher incidence of MACE and all-cause mortality at two years. The best prognosis was achieved with complete revascularisation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
The prognostic outcomes of acute myocardial infarction stratified according to metabolic health and obesity status
Authors: Chew N , Kong G , Ng C H , S V , Chin Y H , Muthiah M Y , Khoo C M , Chai P H , Foo R , Chan M Y , Loh P H
Published: October 2022

Background

There has been emerging evidence on the favourable cardiovascular disease incidence in non-obese subjects with healthy metabolism. However, little is known regarding the prognosis across the metabolic phenotypes once cardiovascular disease is established. This study examines the prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) stratified according to metabolic health and obesity status.

Methods

A retrospective study conducted in a tertiary hospital between 2014–2021. Consecutive patients with AMI were allocated into 4 groups based on metabolic and obesity profile: metabolically healthy obesity (MHO), metabolically healthy non-obesity (MHNO), metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) and metabolically unhealthy non-obesity (MUNO). The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Cox regression examined the independent association between mortality and metabolic phenotypes, adjusting for age, sex, AMI type and ejection fraction.

Results

A total of 9958 patients were studied with majority (68.5%) in the MUNO group, followed by MUO (25.1%), MHNO (5.6%), and MHO (0.8%). MHO patients had lowest mortality (7.4%), followed by MHNO (9.7%), MUO (19.2%) and MUNO (22.6%, p<0.001). Relative to MHNO, MUO (HR 1.610, 95% CI 1.198–2.163, p=0.002) and MUNO (HR 1.383, 95% CI 1.043–1.835, p=0.024) had significantly higher mortality risk, but not MHO (HR 1.514, 95% CI 0.649–3.534, p=0.337), after adjusting for confounders. Kaplan-Meier curves showed favourable survival in metabolically healthy groups with clear divergence from metabolically unhealthy groups (p<0.001). There were stepwise increments in mortality with increasing number of metabolic risk factors regardless of obesity status (p<0.001). Favourable survival was observed in overweight and obese versus normal weight patients regardless of metabolic health.

Conclusion

Metabolically healthy AMI patients had favourable prognosis compared to metabolically unhealthy patients. The obesity paradox was observed in the AMI cohort, but the beneficial effects of obesity appeared not as pronounced in magnitude as in metabolically healthy groups.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Metabolic associated fatty liver disease increases risk of adverse events after acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Chew N , Ng C H , Kong G , Chin Y H , Lim O , Lim W H , Dalakoti M , Khoo C M , Kong W , Poh K K , Foo R , Lee C H , Chan M Y , Muthiah M , Loh P H
Published: October 2022

Metabolic Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) was recently introduced as an alternative definition for fatty liver, that has been linked to an increased risk of systemic end-organ damage. However, current studies have not examined the impact of MAFLD on patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Here, we present a retrospective analysis on the short and long-term outcomes of ACS patients with MAFLD.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted in a tertiary care centre. Hepatic steatosis and fibrosis was examined with hepatic steatosis index and fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index. The primary and secondary outcomes of the analysis were long term all-cause mortality, and in-hospital all-cause mortality, stroke, heart failure and cardiogenic shock respectively. Adjusted analysis was conducted for primary and secondary outcomes with covariates including age, sex, race, type of ACS and previous myocardial infarction.

Results

A total of 5770 patients were included in the analysis, and 21% of ACS patients had concomitant MAFLD. MAFLD resulted in a 23% increase in long-term all-cause mortality compared to non-MAFLD (HR: 1.230, CI: 1.065 to 1.420, p=0.005). MAFLD increased the risk of in-hospital mortality, stroke, heart failure and cardiogenic shock compared to non-MAFLD. A sensitivity analysis conducted based on MAFLD with advance fibrosis, chronic kidney disease and diabetes also demonstrated significantly increased effect size magnitude of all-cause mortality, compared to non-MAFLD.

Conclusion

MAFLD represents an encapsulation of metabolism dysregulation and has been associated with increased risk of systematic disease. The present study shows that MAFLD is associated with significantly increased adverse prognostic outcomes after ACS compared to non-MAFLD. An increase in awareness of MAFLD is required beyond the field of hepatology for improvements in multidisciplinary care and management.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Reconstructed meta-analysis of percutaneous coronary intervention versus coronary artery bypass grafting for left main disease
Authors: Chew N W S , Ng C H , Kong G , Tan D , Lim W H , Kofidis T , Yip J , Loh P H , Chan K H , Low A , Lee C H , Yeo T C , Tan H C , Chan M Y
Published: October 2022

Background

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug-eluting stents and coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for patients with left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD) have reported conflicting results.

Objectives

We performed a systematic review from inception to 23 May 2021 and one-stage reconstructed individual-patient data meta-analysis (IPDMA) that included 10-year mortality outcomes.

Methods

The primary outcome was 10-year all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included myocardial infarction (MI), stroke and unplanned revascularization at 5 years. We did IPDMA using published Kaplan-Meier curves to provide individual data points in coordinates and numbers at risk were used to increase the calibration accuracy of the reconstructed data. Shared frailty model or, when proportionality assumptions were not met, a restricted mean survival time model were fitted to compare outcomes between treatment groups.

Results

Of 583 articles retrieved, 5 RCTs were included. A total of 4595 patients from these 5 RCTs were randomly assigned to PCI (N=2297) or CABG (N=2298). The cumulative 10-year all-cause mortality after PCI and CABG was 12.0% versus 10.6% respectively (HR 1.093, 95% CI: 0.925–1.292; p=0.296). PCI conferred similar time-to-MI (RMST ratio 1.006, 95% CI: 0.992–1.021, p=0.391) and stroke (RMST ratio 1.005, 95% CI: 0.998–1.013, p=0.133) at 5 years. Unplanned revascularization was more frequent following PCI compared with CABG (HR 1.807, 95% CI: 1.524–2.144, p<0.001) at 5 years.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis using reconstructed participant-level time-to-event data showed no statistically significant difference in cumulative 10-year all-cause mortality between PCI versus CABG in the treatment of LMCAD.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Higher long-term mortality in patients with concomitant acute coronary syndrome and aortic stenosis
Authors: Chew N W S , Zhang A , Koh S , Ong J L , Kong G , Lim O , Kuntjoro I , Kong W , Low A , Lee C H , Chan M Y , Yeo T C , Tan H C , Poh K K , Loh P H
Published: October 2022

Background

Aortic stenosis (AS) and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) share similar cardiovascular risk factors, and their concomitant presentation is increasing in incidence with the aging population. Yet literature regarding the prognosis of patients with concomitant ACS and AS remains scarce.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined consecutive patients presenting with ACS (ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction [STEMI] and non-STEMI [NSTEMI]) and concomitant AS between 1 January 2011 and 31 March 2021 in a tertiary hospital. The cohort was divided into mild, moderate and severe AS based on index echocardiogram. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Kaplan-Meier curves were constructed to compare all-cause mortality among the three groups of patients, based on ACS type and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Multivariable Cox regression was performed to identify independent predictors of all-cause mortality.

Results

Of a total of 563 patients, 264 had mild (46.9%), 193 moderate (34.3%) and 106 severe AS (18.8%). The mean follow-up duration was 2.5 (± 2.4) years. Majority of patients (72.5%) presented with NSTEMI. Patients with moderate and severe AS had higher rates of all-cause mortality compared to those with mild AS (49.7% vs. 51.4% vs. 35.6% respectively, p=0.002). Concomitant moderate (HR 1.439, 95% CI 1.012–2.048, p=0.043) and severe AS (HR 1.844, 95% CI 1.159–2.933, p=0.010) were independent predictors of all-cause mortality after adjusting for age, gender, LVEF, ACS type, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery bypass grafting and aortic valve replacement as a time-dependent variable. The Kaplan-Meier curves demonstrated excess mortality in moderate and severe AS, compared to the mild AS group (p<0.001), with similar survival trends observed in the STEMI and the NSTEMI groups, as well as those with preserved LVEF.

Conclusion

Regardless of the ACS presentation type, long-term excess mortality in those with concomitant moderate or severe AS was observed. The adverse prognosis typically observed in patients with concomitant severe AS, in the setting of ACS, extends to patients with moderate AS.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
Contemporary approach to thrombus containing lesions during primary percutaneous coronary interventions in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (from the ORPKI National Registry in Poland)
Authors: Rakowski T , Wegiel M , Malinowski K , Siudak Z , Zasada W , Tokarek T , Rzeszutko L , Dudek D , Bartus S , Surdacki A , Dziewierz A
Published: October 2022

Background

In the era of potent P2Y12 inhibitors, according to current guidelines on ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), treatment with glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPI) should be limited to selected bail-out or highly thrombotic situations. Similarly, aspiration thrombectomy (AT) is downgraded in current guidelines for very selective but not routine usage. Both recommendations make the treatment of thrombus containing lesions somewhat defensive, underlining the need for an individualized approach to STEMI patients. However, data concerning current clinical practice of such approach are limited.

Purpose

We examined the prevalence, procedural characteristics, and predictors of GPI administration and AT usage in all-comers contemporary STEMI patients referred to primary PCI in Poland.

Methods

We focused on 116,873 consecutive STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI in Poland between 2015 and 2020.

Results

GPIs were administered in 29.3% of patients and AT was used in 11.6%, with combined treatment with GPI and AT in 6.1% of patients. There was a slight trend towards a decrease in GPI and AT usage during the analyzed years. On the opposite, there was a rapid growth of the ticagrelor/prasugrel usage rate from 6.5% in 2015 to 48.1% in 2020 (Figure 1). Patients with periprocedural GPI administration and combined strategy with GPI and AT were younger, more often men, with history of smoking and presented with cardiogenic shock on admission. They were less likely to have diabetes, chronic kidney disease and previous stroke. Occluded infarct-related artery in baseline angiography and no-reflow during PCI were the strongest independent predictors of GPI administration and combined usage of GPI and AT in a multivariate logistic regression model. Similarly, administration of ticagrelor/prasugrel was an independent predictor of both adjunctive treatment strategies (see table for details).

Conclusions

Despite the rapid growth of potent P2Y12 inhibitors usage in Poland in recent years, GPI and AT are selectively used at a stable level during primary PCI in highly thrombotic STEMI lesions.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.