Expressão gênica de adiponectina no tecido adiposo epicárdico após intervenção coronária percutânea com implante de stent metálico / Adiponectin expression in epicardial adipose tissue after percutaneous coronary intervention with bare-metal stent

INTRODUÇÃO: A visão clássica de tecido adiposo como um reservatório passivo para o armazenamento de energia não é mais válido. Na última década, o tecido adiposo tem demonstrado funções endócrinas, sendo o peptídeo mais abundante secretado pelos adipócitos a adiponectina. O tecido adiposo epicárdico (TAE) é distribuído em torno das artérias coronárias e, a lesão endovascular causada pela presença de stent metálico intracoronário, poderia promover alterações inflamatórias na gordura periadventicial, contribuindo para reestenose. OBJETIVO: Determinar a expressão gênica de mediadores inflamatórios no tecido adiposo epicárdico após implante de stent metálico com reestenose que haviam sido encaminhados para tratamento cirúrgico. MÉTODOS: Amostras pareadas de TAE foram colhidas no momento da cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica (CRM) em 11 pacientes (n = 22), uma amostra foi obtida do tecido em torno da area com stent e outra amostra em torno da artéria coronária sem stent. Expressão local de adiponectina foi determinada por reação em cadeia de polymerase em tempo real utilizando Taq DNA polimerase. RESULTADOS: Em duas amostras, não houve expressão do gene da adiponectina. Fomos capazes de identificar adiponectina em 20 amostras, no entanto, o padrão de expressão gênica foi heterogêneo. Não percebemos especificidade quando comparamos TAE obtido próximo à área de stent ou distante da área de stent. CONCLUSÃO: Não houve correlação entre a expressão do gene de adiponectina e a presença de stent intracoronário.

BACKGROUND: The classical view of adipose tissue as a passive reservoir for energy storage is no longer valid. In the past decade, adipose tissue has been shown to have endocrine functions and the most abundant peptide secreted by adipocytes is adiponectin. Pericardial adipose tissue (PAT) is distributed around coronary arteries and endovascular injury, caused by the presence of intracoronary bare-metal stent (BMS), could promote inflammatory changes in the periadvential fat, contributing to vascular restenosis. OBJECTIVE: We sought to determine gene expression of inflammatory mediator in pericardial adipose tissue after bare-metal stent implantation and vascular restenosis that had been referred to operative treatment. METHODS: Paired samples of PAT were harvested at the time of elective coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) in 11 patients (n=22), one sample was obtained of the tissue around BMS area and another sample around coronary artery without stent. Local expression of adiponectin was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using Taq DNA polymerase. RESULTS: In two samples, there was no gene expression of adiponectin. We are able to identify adiponectin in 20 samples, however, the pattern of gene expression were heterogeneous.We did not notice specificity when we compared PAT obtained near BMS area or far from BMS area. CONCLUSION: There were no correlation between adiponectin gene expression and presence of BMS.

Going around the bend: deep inspiration facilitates difficult stent delivery in the native coronary arteries.

Percutaneous coronary intervention in tortuous or calcified vessels poses a substantial challenge for interventional cardiologists. Many techniques have been described to overcome the challenge, including the use of stiffer wires, buddy wires, the anchor balloon technique, and deep seating of the guide catheter. Herein, we describe a way to facilitate stent delivery in many tortuous, calcified, and acutely angled vessels: having the patient take a deep breath during the delivery. Deep inspiration displaces the diaphragm and the heart into a more vertical position and causes the coronary tree to straighten slightly, which facilitates balloon and stent delivery. We have found that this method minimizes patients' radiation exposure and saves substantial time and expense in many balloon and stent deliveries that would otherwise be challenging.

Desfechos clínicos por região geográfica em pacientes com implante de stent eluidor de Zotarolimus / Clinical outcomes by geographic region for patients implanted with the zotarolimus-eluting stent / Desenlaces clínicos por región geográfica en pacientes con implante de Stent liberador de Zotarolimus

FUNDAMENTO: Diferenças entre regiões geográficas em relação à características de pacientes e desfechos, particularmente em síndromes coronarianas agudas, tem sido demonstradas em testes clínicos. Os desfechos clínicos após intervenções coronarianas percutâneas com o stent eluidor de Zotarolimus em uma população real foram analisados com o tempo. OBJETIVO: A influência da localização geográfica sobre os desfechos clínicos com o stent eluidor de Zotarolimus foi avaliada em três regiões: Pacífico Asiático, Europa e América Latina. MÉTODOS: Um total de 8.314 pacientes (6.572 da Europa, 1.522 do Pacífico Asiático e 220 da América Latina) foram acompanhados por 1 ano; 2.116 desses (1.613, 316, e 187, respectivamente) foram acompanhados por 2 anos. Características dos pacientes e lesões, terapia antiplaquetária dupla e desfechos clínicos foram comparados entre a América Latina e as outras duas regiões. RESULTADOS: Os pacientes da América Latina apresentavam a maior proporção de fatores de risco e infarto do miocárdio prévio. O uso da terapia antiplaquetária dupla declinou rapidamente na América Latina, de 44,9 por cento em 6 meses para 22,5 por cento em 1 ano e 7,8 por cento em 2 anos (Europa: 87,4 por cento, 61,5 por cento, 19,7 por cento; Pacífico Asiático: 82,4 por cento, 67,0 por cento, 45,7 por cento, respectivamente). Não houve diferenças significantes entre a América Latina e a Europa ou Pacífico Asiático para qualquer desfecho em qualquer ponto do tempo. A incidência de trombose de stent provável e definitiva pelo Academic Research Consortium foi baixa (<1,2 por cento) entre todos os pacientes em 1 ano e 2 anos. CONCLUSÃO: Os desfechos clínicos foram comparáveis entre os pacientes da América Latina e Europa, e América Latina e Pacífico Asiático, a despeito dos subgrupos clínicos menos favoráveis na América Latina, perfil de risco mais elevado e menor uso acentuado de terapia antiplaquetária dupla com o tempo.

BACKGROUND: Differences between geographic regions in patient characteristics and outcomes, particularly for acute coronary syndromes, have been demonstrated in clinical trials. Clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary interventions with the Zotarolimus-eluting stent in a real-world population were assessed over time. OBJECTIVE: The influence of geographic location on clinical outcomes with the Zotarolimus-eluting stent was assessed in 3 regions: Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America. METHODS: A total of 8,314 patients (6,572 Europe, 1,522 Asia Pacific, and 220 Latin America) were followed for 1 year; 2,116 of these (1,613, 316, and 187, respectively) were followed for 2 years. Patient and lesion characteristics, dual antiplatelet therapy, and clinical outcomes were compared between Latin America and the other regions. RESULTS: Patients in Latin America had the highest proportions of risk factors and prior myocardial infarction. Dual antiplatelet therapy usage rapidly declined in Latin America, from 44.9 percent at 6 months to 22.5 percent at 1 year and 7.8 percent at 2 years (Europe: 87.4 percent, 61.5 percent, 19.7 percent; Asia Pacific: 82.4 percent, 67.0 percent, 45.7 percent). There were no significant differences between Latin America and Europe or Asia Pacific for any outcome at either time point. The incidence of Academic Research Consortium definite and probable stent thrombosis was low (<1.2 percent) among all patients at 1 year and 2 years. CONCLUSION: Clinical outcomes were comparable between patients in Latin America and Europe, and Latin America and Asia Pacific, despite less favorable clinical subsets in Latin America, a higher risk profile, and markedly lower use of dual antiplatelet therapy over time.

FUNDAMENTO: Las diferencias entre las regiones geográficas en relación con las características de pacientes y desenlaces, sobre todo en los síndromes coronarios agudos se ha demostrado en ensayos clínicos. Los desenlaces clínicos después de las intervenciones coronarias percutáneas con stent liberador de zotarolimus en una población real se analizaron a través del tiempo. Objetivos: La influencia de la ubicación geográfica sobre los desenlaces clínicos con el stent liberador de zotarolimus se evaluó en tres regiones: Pacífico Asiático, Europa y América Latina. MÉTODOS: A total of 8,314 patients (6.572 Europe, 1.522 Asia Pacific, and 220 Latin America) were followed for 1 year; 2.116 of these (1.613, 316, and 187, respectively) were followed for 2 years. Patient and lesion characteristics, dual antiplatelet therapy, and clinical outcomes were compared between Latin America and the other regions. RESULTADOS: Los pacientes en América Latina tuvieron la mayor proporción de factores de riesgo e infarto de miocardio previo. Hubo un rápido descenso en el uso de la terapia antiplaquetaria en América Latina, el 44,9 por ciento en 6 meses para 22,5 por ciento en 1 año y 7,8 por ciento en 2 años (Europa: un 87,4 por ciento, un 61,5 por ciento, un 19,7 por ciento; Pacífico Asiático: un 82,4 por ciento, un 67,0 por ciento, un 45,7 por ciento, respectivamente). No hubo diferencias significativas entre América Latina y Europa o Pacífico Asiático para cualquier desenlace en cualquier momento. La incidencia de trombosis de stent probable y definitiva por el Academic Research Consortium fue baja (< 1,2 por ciento) entre todos los pacientes en 1 año y 2 años. CONCLUSIONES: Los desenlaces clínicos fueron comparables entre los pacientes de América Latina y Europa, y América Latina y Pacífico Asiático, pese a los subgrupos clínicos menos favorables en América Latina, perfil de riesgo más elevado y menor uso acentuado de terapia antiplaquetaria doble con el ...

Acesso radial em intervenções coronarianas percutâneas: panorama atual brasileiro / Radial approach in percutaneous coronary interventions: current status in Brazil / Acceso radial en intervenciones coronarias percutáneas: panorama actual brasileño

FUNDAMENTO: Embora a técnica radial exiba resultados incontestáveis na redução de complicações vasculares e ocorrência de sangramento grave quando comparada à técnica femoral, seu emprego permanece restrito a poucos centros que a elegeram como via de acesso preferencial. OBJETIVO: Avaliar o cenário atual das intervenções coronarianas percutâneas no Brasil quanto à utilização da via de acesso radial. MÉTODOS: Análise dos dados cadastrados de forma espontânea na Central Nacional de Intervenções Cardiovasculares (CENIC) durante o quadriênio de 2005-2008, o que totaliza 83.376 procedimentos. RESULTADOS: A técnica radial foi utilizada em 12,6 por cento dos procedimentos efetivados, e a técnica femoral, em 84,3 por cento. Os 3,1 por cento restantes foram representados pela dissecção ou punção braquial. Com uma taxa de sucesso de 97,5 por cento, a opção pelo acesso radial associou-se à redução significativa de complicações vasculares quando comparado ao femoral (2,5 por cento versus 3,6 por cento, p < 0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: A utilização da técnica radial permanece baixa no Brasil. Ausência de programas de treinamento, incertezas quanto à curva de aprendizagem e carência de estudos em larga escala, que corroboram os benefícios demonstrados até o momento, são possíveis justificativas para esses achados.

BACKGROUND: Although the radial approach offers an unquestionable result in terms of reduction of vascular complications and occurrence of severe bleeding in comparison to the femoral approach, so far it has only been used in few centers which elected it as the preferential access. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the current status of percutaneous coronary interventions in Brazil, as regards the use of the radial approach. METHODS: Analysis of data spontaneously recorded in Central Nacional de Intervenções Cardiovasculares - CENIC (National Center for Cardiovascular Interventions) from 2005 to 2008, in a total of 83,376 procedures. RESULTS: The radial approach was used in 12.6 percent of the procedures performed, and the femoral approach, in 84.3 percent. The remaining 3.1 percent corresponded to brachial artery dissection or puncture. With a success rate of 97.5 percent, the choice of the radial approach was associated with a significant reduction of vascular complications in comparison to the femoral approach (2.5 percent versus 3.6 percent, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: The radial approach remains uncommonly used in Brazil, and this is possibly explained by the lack of training programs, uncertainties regarding the learning curve, and the lack of large-scale studies corroborating the benefits demonstrated to date.

FUNDAMENTO: Aunque la técnica radial exhiba resultados incontestables en la reducción de complicaciones vasculares y ocurrencia de sangrado grave cuando es comparada a la técnica femoral, su empleo permanece restringido a pocos centros que la eligieron como vía de acceso preferencial. OBJETIVO:Evaluar el escenario actual de las intervenciones coronarias percutáneas en el Brasil en cuanto a la utilización de la vía de acceso radial. MÉTODOS:Análisis de los datos registrados de forma espontánea en la Central Nacional de Intervenciones Cardiovasculares (CENIC) durante el cuatrienio de 2005-2008, lo que totaliza 83.376 procedimientos. RESULTADOS:La técnica radial fue utilizada en 12,6 por ciento de los procedimientos efectuados, y la técnica femoral, en 84,3 por ciento. Los 3,1 por ciento restantes fueron representados por la disección o punción braquial. Con una tasa de éxito de 97,5 por ciento, la opción por el acceso radial se asoció a la reducción significativa de complicaciones vasculares cuando fue comparado al femoral (2,5 por ciento versus 3,6 por ciento, p < 0,0001). CONCLUSIÓN:La utilización de la técnica radial permanece baja en el Brasil. Ausencia de programas de entrenamiento, dudas en cuanto a la curva de aprendizaje y carencia de estudios en gran escala, que corroboren los beneficios demostrados hasta el momento, son posibles justificativas para esos hallazgos.

Intervenção coronariana percutânea no Brasil: resultados do Sistema Único de Saúde / Percutaneous coronary intervention in Brazil: results from the Brazilian Public Health System / Intervención coronaria percutánea en el Brasil: Resultados del Sistema Único de Salud

FUNDAMENTO: O Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) realiza aproximadamente 80 por cento das intervenções coronarianas percutâneas (ICP) no Brasil. O conhecimento desses dados permitirá planejar adequadamente o tratamento da doença arterial coronariana (DAC). OBJETIVO: Analisar e discutir os resultados das ICP realizadas pelo SUS. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados os dados do SIH/DATASUS disponibilizados para consulta pública. RESULTADOS: Entre os anos de 2005 a 2008 foram realizados 166.514 procedimentos em 180 hospitais. A mortalidade hospitalar média foi de 2,33 por cento, variando de 0 por cento a 11,35 por cento, sendo mais baixa no Sudeste, 2,03 por cento e mais alta na região Norte, 3,64 por cento (p < 0,001). A mortalidade foi de 2,33 por cento nos 45 (25 por cento) hospitais de maior volume, responsáveis por 101.218 (60,8 por cento) das ICP, 2,29 por cento nos 90 (50 por cento) de médio volume com 50.067 (34,9 por cento) ICP e 2,52 por cento nos 45 (25 por cento) de pequeno volume com 7.229 (4,3 por cento) ICP (p > 0,05). A mortalidade foi maior no gênero feminino (p < 0,0001), e nas idades > 65 a (p < 0,001). No diagnóstico de angina (79.324, 47,64 por cento) a mortalidade foi de 1,03 por cento e no de IAM (33.286, 32,30 por cento) 6,35 por cento (p < 0,0000001). No implante único de stent, o mais frequente (102.165, 61,36 por cento), a mortalidade foi de 1,20 por cento, e na ICP primária (27.125, 16,29 por cento), 6,96 por cento. CONCLUSÃO: Embora crescente, ainda é baixo o número de ICP no país. Os hospitais de grande volume, em menor número, foram responsáveis pela maior parte dos procedimentos. O implante único de stent por internação foi o procedimento reportado mais empregado. As mortalidades tiveram grande variabilidade entre os hospitais. A ICP primária foi a responsável pela maior taxa de mortalidade.

BACKGROUND: The Brazilian Public Health System (SUS) holds approximately 80 percent of percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) in Brazil. Being aware of these data will enable to design a proper plan for the treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD). OBJECTIVE: To review and discuss the results of PCIs performed by the SUS. METHODS: We reviewed data from SIH/DATASUS available for public consultation. RESULTS: From 2005 to 2008, 166,514 procedures were performed in 180 hospitals. Average hospital mortality was 2.33 percent, ranging from 0 percent to 11.35 percent, being lower in the Southeast, 2.03 percent and higher in the northern region, 3.64 percent (p < 0.001). The mortality rate was 2.33 percent in 45 (25 percent) higher-volume hospitals, accounting for 101,218 (60.8 percent) of the PCIs, 2.29 percent in 90 (50 percent) medium-volume hospitals with 50,067 (34.9 percent) PCIs and 2.52 percent in 45 (25 percent) small-volume hospitals with 7,229 (4.3 percent) PCIs (p > 0.05). Mortality was higher in females (p < 0.0001) and at ages > 65 to = (p < 0.001). In the diagnosis of angina (79,324, 47.64 percent) mortality was 1.03 percent, and AMI (33,286, 32.30 percent) 6.35 percent (p < 0.0000001). In the single stent implantation, the most common (102,165, 61.36 percent), mortality was 1.20 percent, and primary PCI (27,125, 16.29 percent), 6.96 percent. CONCLUSION: Although it is growing, the number of PCIs in Brazil is still low. High-volume hospitals, in smaller numbers, accounted for most procedures. Single stent implantation through hospital admission was reported to be most commonly used procedure. Mortality rates were highly variable among the hospitals. Primary PCI was responsible for the highest mortality rate.

FUNDAMENTO: El Sistema Único de Salud (SUS) realiza aproximadamente 80 por ciento de las intervenciones coronarias percutáneas (ICP) en el Brasil. El conocimiento de esos datos permitirá planear adecuadamente el tratamiento de la enfermedad arterial coronaria (EAC). OBJETIVO: Analizar y discutir los resultados de las ICP realizadas por el SUS. MÉTODOS:Fueron evaluados los datos del SIH/DATASUS disponibles para la consulta pública. RESULTADOS: Entre los años 2005 a 2008 fueron realizados 166.514 procedimientos en 180 hospitales. La mortalidad hospitalaria media fue de 2,33 por ciento, variando de 0 por ciento a 11,35 por ciento, siendo más baja en el Sudeste, 2,03 por ciento y más alta en la región Norte, 3,64 por ciento (p < 0,001). La mortalidad fue de 2,33 por ciento en los 45 (25 por ciento) hospitales de mayor volumen, responsables por 101.218 (60,8 por ciento) de las ICP, 2,29 por ciento en los 90 (50 por ciento) de medio volumen con 50.067 (34,9 por ciento) ICP y 2,52 por ciento en los 45 (25 por ciento) de pequeño volumen con 7.229 (4,3 por ciento) ICP (p > 0,05). La mortalidad fue mayor en el género femenino (p < 0,0001), y en las edades > 65 a (p < 0,001). En el diagnóstico de angina (79.324, 47,64 por ciento) la mortalidad fue de 1,03 por ciento y en el de IAM (33.286, 32,30 por ciento) 6,35 por ciento (p < 0,0000001). En el implante único de stent, el más frecuente (102.165, 61,36 por ciento), la mortalidad fue de 1,20 por ciento, y en la ICP primaria (27.125, 16,29 por ciento), 6,96 por ciento. CONCLUSIÓN:Aunque creciente, aun es bajo el número de ICP en el país. Los hospitales de gran volumen, en menor número, fueron responsables por la mayor parte de los procedimientos. El implante único de stent por internación fue el procedimiento reportado como más empleado. Las mortalidades tuvieron gran variabilidad entre los hospitales. La ICP primaria fue la responsable por la mayor tasa de mortalidad.

Cobalt-chromium stents in long lesions of large vessels: clinical and angiographic results.

Although drug-eluting stents have reduced the restenosis rate, some patients are not good candidates for prolonged double-antiplatelet therapy. Our goal was to learn the results of implanting cobalt-chromium stents in long lesions of large vessels.All consecutive patients with ≥1 lesion treated with a cobalt-chromium stent ≥28 mm in length and ≥3.5 mm in diameter during a 12-month period in 2 centers were monitored clinically and angiographically to determine the clinical status, restenosis rate, pattern of restenosis, and need for revascularization.The series comprised 78 patients with 81 lesions, mean age, 62.6 ± 15.2 yr; diabetes mellitus,19.2%; and primary or rescue intervention, 20.6%. Target vessels were the left anterior descending coronary artery, 12 (14.8%); left circumflex coronary artery, 12 (14.8%); and right coronary artery, 57 (70.4%). The mean lesion length was 35.18 ± 12.65 mm. The proximal reference diameter after percutaneous coronary intervention was 3.64 ± 0.54 mm; the distal, 3.2 ± 0.43 mm; and the mean, 3.42 ± 0.44 mm. The mean stent length was 38.05 ± 12.78 mm (range, 28-90 mm). The binary restenosis rate was 23% (15/64), with pattern IB in 2 cases, IC in 5, II in 7, and IV in 1. Revascularization was needed in 6 patients.In treating long lesions of large vessels, we found that cobalt-chromium stents achieved a moderate rate of target-vessel restenosis and a low rate of repeat revascularization. The pattern of restenosis was focal in almost half of the cases, and, in most remaining cases, restenosis affected short segments of the vessel.

Avaliação angiográfica do volume de placa e eventos cardiovasculares após implante de stents coronarianos / Angiographic evaluation of plaque volume and cardiovascular events after coronary Stent Implantation / Evaluación angiográfica del volumen de placa y eventos cardiovasculares tras implantación de stents coronarios

FUNDAMENTO: O volume de placa (VP) está relacionado a eventos cardiovasculares maiores (ECVM) após o implante de stents coronarianos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a associação entre o VP antes do procedimento avaliado por angiografia e desfechos clínicos. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de estudo de coorte prospectivo incluindo pacientes submetidos a implante de stents coronarianos em um centro de referência. O VP antes do implante do stent foi avaliado pela fórmula descrita por Giugliano (Am J Cardiol 2005; 95:173): VP = À X (comprimento da lesão) X [(diâmetro do vaso/2)² - (diâmetro luminal mínimo/2)²]. Os ECVM foram registrados no seguimento clínico de um ano e análise de regressão linear múltipla foi realizada para identificar os preditores de eventos. RESULTADOS: A amostra estudada consistiu em 824 pacientes, com idade média de 60 ± 11 anos, sendo 70,0 por cento do gênero masculino. O diabete melito estava presente em 21,0 por cento e o comprometimento triarterial em 12,0 por cento. O diâmetro médio de referência foi de 3,3 ± 3,2 mm, a média do comprimento da lesão foi de 10,2 ± 4,7 mm e a média da estenose residual foi de 1,0 por cento ± 12,0 por cento. Os pacientes com ECVM apresentaram VP maior do que aqueles sem eventos (92,84 ± 42,85 vs 85 ± 46,85; p = 0,03). Outras variáveis associadas com ECVM na análise univariada foram comprometimento triarterial, IAM, diâmetro do vaso e comprimento da lesão tratada. O VP manteve a associação significativa com ECVM após ajuste para as variáveis descritas e diabete melito. CONCLUSÃO: O volume da placa do ateroma antes do implante do stent foi maior nos pacientes que apresentaram ECVM no seguimento clínico em um ano, independentemente de outros preditores de eventos.

BACKGROUND: Plaque volume (PV) is related to major cardiovascular events (MACE) after coronary stent implantation. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the association between PV before the procedure evaluated by angiography and clinical outcomes. METHODS: This is a prospective cohort study of patients undergoing coronary stent implantation in a referral center. PV before the stent implantation was evaluated by the formula described by Giugliano (Am J Cardiol 2005, 95:173): VP = À X (lesion length) X [(vessel diameter/2)² - (minimum luminal diameter/2)²]. The MACE were registered at clinical follow-up of one year and multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify predictors of events. RESULTS: The sample consisted of 824 patients, mean age 60 ± 11 years, 70.0 percent were male. Diabetes mellitus was present in 21.0 percent and triple vessel involvement in 12.0 percent. Average reference diameter was 3.3 ± 3.2 mm, average lesion length was 10.2 ± 4.7 mm and mean residual stenosis was 1.0 percent ± 12.0 percent. Patients with MACE had higher PV than those without events (92.84 ± 42.85 vs 85 ± 46.85, p = 0.03). Other variables associated with MACE in the univariate analysis were triple vessel involvement, myocardial infarction, vessel diameter and length of the lesion treated. PV maintained a significant association with MACE after adjusting for the variables described and diabetes mellitus. CONCLUSION: The volume of atheromatous plaque before stenting was higher in patients with MACE on clinical follow-up in one year, regardless of other predictors of events.

FUNDAMENTO: El volumen de placa (VP) está relacionado a eventos cardiovasculares mayores (ECVM) tras implantación de stentscoronarios. OBJETIVOS: Evaluar la asociación entre el VP antes del procedimiento evaluado por angiografía y desenlaces clínicos. MÉTODOS: Se trata de estudio de cohorte prospectivo que incluye a pacientes sometidos a implantación de stentscoronarios en un centro de referencia. El VP antes de la implantación del stent se evaluó por la fórmula descrita por Giugliano (Am J Cardiol 2005; 95:173): VP = Π X (longitud de la lesión) X [(diámetro del vaso/2)² - (diámetro luminal mínimo/2)²]. Los ECVM fueron registrados en el seguimiento clínico de un año y análisis de regresión lineal múltiple se llevó a cabo para identificar los predictores de eventos. RESULTADOS: La muestra estudiada consistió en 824 pacientes, con edad promedio de 60 ± 11 años, con el 70 por ciento del género masculino. El diabetes melito estaba presente en el 21,0 por ciento y el compromiso triarterial en el 12 por ciento. El diámetro medio de referencia fue de 3,3 ± 3,2 mm, la media del longitud de la lesión fue de 10,2 ± 4,7 mm y la media de la estenosis residual fue del 1 por ciento ± 12 por ciento. Los pacientes con ECVM presentaron VP mayor que aquellos sin eventos (92,84 ± 42,85 vs 85 ± 46,85; p = 0,03). Otras variables asociadas con ECVM en el análisis univariado fueron el compromiso triarterial, el IAM, el diámetro del vaso y longitud de la lesión tratada. El VP mantuvo la asociación significativa con ECVM tras ajuste para las variables descritas y diabetes melito. CONCLUSIÓN: El volumen de la placa del ateroma antes de la implantación del stent fue mayor en los pacientes que presentaron ECVM en el seguimiento clínico en un año, independientemente de otros predictores de eventos.

Efficacy and safety of drug-eluting stents in patients with acute ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

We compared the efficacy and safety of drug-eluting stents with that of bare-metal stents in patients who experienced acute ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention. To do this, we performed a meta-analysis of 13 randomized controlled trials in which drug-eluting stents were compared with bare-metal stents in STEMI patients. The trials involved 6,769 patients (4,246 received drug-eluting stents and 2,523 received bare-metal stents) and follow-up periods of 6 to 48 months. In comparison with bare-metal stents, drug-eluting stents significantly reduced the incidence of major adverse cardiac events, with a risk ratio (RR) of 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.47-0.73; P < 0.00001). Drug-eluting stents were not associated with a significant reduction in overall death (RR = 0.94; 95% CI, 0.74-1.20; P = 0.64), but were associated with significant reductions in recurrent myocardial infarction (RR = 0.76; 95% CI, 0.58-0.98; P = 0.03), target-vessel revascularization (RR = 0.47; 95% CI, 0.39-0.56; P <0.00001), and in-stent restenosis (RR = 0.32; 95% CI, 0.25-0.39; P < 0.00001). Moreover, no significant difference was found in the comparative risk of stent thrombosis (RR = 0.85; 95% CI, 0.63-1.14; P = 0.27).On the basis of risk ratio, we conclude that using drug-eluting stents in STEMI patients who undergo primary percutaneous coronary intervention is safe with regard to stent thrombosis within 48 months, and that drug-eluting stents improve clinical outcomes by reducing the risks of major adverse cardiac events, recurrent myocardial infarction, reintervention, and in-stent restenosis, compared with bare-metal stents. However, in order to investigate possible very late stent thrombosis, follow-up of these trials beyond 48 months is warranted.

Standardised pre-hospital care of acute myocardial infarction patients: MISSION! guidelines applied in practice.

Background. To improve acute myocardial infarction (AMI) care in the region 'Hollands-Midden' (the Netherlands), a standardised guideline-based care program was developed (MISSION!). This study aimed to evaluate the outcome of the pre-hospital part of the MISSION! program and to study potential differences in pre-hospital care between four areas of residency.Methods. Time-to-treatment delays, AMI risk profile, cardiac enzymes, hospital stay, in-hospital mortality, and pre-AMI medication was evaluated in consecutive AMI patients (n=863, 61±13years, 75% male) transferred to the Leiden University Medical Center for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).Results. Median time interval between onset of symptoms and arrival at the catheterisation laboratory was 150 (interquartile range [IQR] 101-280) minutes. The alert of emergency services to arrival at the hospital time was 48 (IQR 40-60) minutes and the door-to-catheterisation laboratory time was 23 (IQR 13-42) minutes. Despite significant regional differences in ambulance transportation times no difference in total time from onset of symptoms to arrival at the catheterisation room was found. Peak troponin T was 3.33 (IQR 1.23-7.04) µg/l, hospital stay was 2 (IQR 2-3) days and in-hospital mortality was 2.3%. Twelve percent had 0 known risk factors, 30% had one risk factor, 45% two to three risk factors and 13% had four or more risk factors. No significant differences were observed for AMI risk profiles and medication pre-AMI. Conclusions. This study shows that a standardised regional AMI treatment protocol achieved optimal and uniformly distributed pre-hospital performance in the region 'Hollands-Midden', resulting in minimal time delays regardless of area of residence. Hospital stay was short and in-hospital mortality low. Of the patients, 88% had ≥1 modifiable risk factor. (Neth Heart J 2010;18:408-15.).

Coronary ostial stenosis after aortic valve replacement: successful treatment of 2 patients with drug-eluting stents.

Coronary ostial stenosis is a rare but potentially serious sequela after aortic valve replacement. It occurs in the left main or right coronary artery after 1% to 5% of aortic valve replacement procedures. The clinical symptoms are usually severe and may appear from 1 to 6 months postoperatively. Although the typical treatment is coronary artery bypass grafting, patients have been successfully treated by means of percutaneous coronary intervention.Herein, we present the cases of 2 patients in whom coronary ostial stenosis developed after aortic valve replacement. In the 1st case, a 72-year-old man underwent aortic valve replacement and bypass grafting of the saphenous vein to the left anterior descending coronary artery. Six months later, he experienced a non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction. Coronary angiography revealed a critical stenosis of the right coronary artery ostium. In the 2nd case, a 78-year-old woman underwent aortic valve replacement and grafting of the saphenous vein to an occluded right coronary artery. Four months later, she experienced unstable angina. Coronary angiography showed a critical left main coronary artery ostial stenosis and occlusion of the right coronary artery venous graft. In each patient, we performed percutaneous coronary intervention and deployed a drug-eluting stent. Both patients were asymptomatic on 6-to 12-month follow-up. We attribute the coronary ostial stenosis to the selective ostial administration of cardioplegic solution during surgery. We conclude that retrograde administration of cardioplegic solution through the coronary sinus may reduce the incidence of postoperative coronary ostial stenosis, and that stenting may be an efficient treatment option.

Ausência de interação clopidogrel-estatina em pacientes submetidos a implante de "stent" coronário / Lack of clopidogrel-statin interaction in patients undergoing coronary stent implantation / Ausencia de interacción clopidogrel-estatina en pacientes sometidos a implante de "Stent" coronario

FUNDAMENTO: Alguns estudos têm sugerido redução da atividade do clopidogrel sobre a ativação e adesão plaquetárias em pacientes em uso de estatinas. OBJETIVO: Avaliar se a ativação e agregação plaquetárias diminuem com clopidogrel, e se ocorre redução da ação do clopidogrel quando associado à atorvastatina ou à sinvastatina. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo que incluiu 68 pacientes com angina estável em uso prévio de sinvastatina, atorvastatina, ou nenhuma estatina (grupo controle), com indicação prévia eletiva de realização de intervenção coronária percutânea. Foi analisada a ativação plaquetária através do número de plaquetas, níveis de P-selectina e glucoproteína IIb/IIIa (com e sem estímulo de ADP) através de citometria de fluxo. Os resultados foram analisados antes e após a intervenção coronária percutânea e da administração de clopidogrel. RESULTADOS: Observamos redução da atividade plaquetária com uso de clopidogrel. Além disso, não houve diferenças entre as variáveis analisadas que comprovassem redução da atividade do clopidogrel quando associado à estatinas. Observou-se níveis de p-selectina (pré-angioplastia: 14,23±7,52 x 11,45±8,83 x 7,65±7,09; pós angioplastia: 21,49±23,82 x 4,37±2,71 x 4,82±4,47, ρ<0,01) e glicoproteína IIb/IIIa (pré-angioplastia: 98,97±0,43 x 98,79±1,25 x 99,21±0,40; pós angioplastia: 99,37±0,29 x 98,50±1,47 x 98,92±0,88, ρ=0,52), respectivamente nos grupos controle, atorvastatina e sinvastatina. CONCLUSÃO: Concluímos que a ativação plaquetária diminui com a administração de clopidogrel, e que o clopidogrel não tem seu efeito antiplaquetário reduzido na presença de sinvastatina ou atorvastatina.

BACKGROUND: Some studies have suggested reduced activity of clopidogrel on platelet activation and adherence in patients using statins. OBJECTIVE: To assess whether platelet activation and aggregation decrease with clopidogrel, and whether there is a reduction of the action of clopidogrel when associated with atorvastatin or simvastatin. METHODS: This prospective study included 68 patients with stable angina with previous use of simvastatin, atorvastatin, or no statin (control group), with previous elective indication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Platelet activation was analyzed by means of platelet count, levels of P-selectin and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (with and without ADP stimulation) by flow cytometry. The findings were analyzed before and after percutaneous coronary intervention and the administration of clopidogrel. RESULTS: We observed reduction in platelet activity with use of clopidogrel. Furthermore, no differences were found between the variables analyzed to prove reduced activity of clopidogrel when combined with statins. We observed levels of p-selectin (pre-angioplasty: 14.23 ± 7.52 x 8.83 x 11.45 ± 7.65 ± 7.09; after angioplasty: 21.49 ± 23.82 x 4 37 ± 2.71 x 4.82 ± 4.47, ρ < 0.01) and glycoprotein IIb/IIIa (pre-angioplasty: 98.97 ± 0.43 ± 1.25 x 98.79 x 99.21 ± 0.40 after angioplasty: 99.37 ± 0.29 ± 1.47 x 98.50 x 98.92 ± 0.88, ρ = 0.52), respectively, in the control, atorvastatin and simvastatin groups. CONCLUSION: We concluded that platelet activation decreases with administration of clopidogrel, and clopidogrel has no antiplatelet effect reduced in the presence of simvastatin or atorvastatin.

FUNDAMENTO: Algunos estudios han sugerido reducción de la actividad del clopidogrel sobre la activación y adhesión plaquetarias en pacientes en uso de estatinas. OBJETIVO: Evaluar si la activación y agregación plaquetarias disminuyen con clopidogrel, y si ocurre reducción de la acción del clopidogrel cuando está asociado a la atorvastatina o a la sinvastatina. MÉTODOS: Estudio prospectivo que incluyó 68 pacientes con angina estable en uso previo de sinvastatina, atorvastatina, o ninguna estatina (grupo control), con indicación previa electiva de realización de intervención coronaria percutánea. Fue analizada la activación plaquetaria a través del número de plaquetas, niveles de P-selectina y glucoproteína IIb/IIIa (con y sin estímulo de ADP) a través de citometría de flujo. Los resultados fueron analizados antes y después de la intervención coronaria percutánea y de la administración de clopidogrel. RESULTADOS: Observamos reducción de la actividad plaquetaria con uso de clopidogrel. Además de eso, no hubo diferencias entre las variables analizadas que comprobasen reducción de la actividad del clopidogrel cuando está asociado a las estatinas. Se observaron niveles de p-selectina (pre-angioplastia: 14,23±7,52 x 11,45±8,83 x 7,65±7,09; post angioplastia: 21,49±23,82 x 4,37±2,71 x 4,82±4,47, ρ<0,01) y glicoproteína IIb/IIIa (pre-angioplastia: 98,97±0,43 x 98,79±1,25 x 99,21±0,40; post angioplastia: 99,37±0,29 x 98,50±1,47 x 98,92±0,88, ρ=0,52), respectivamente en los grupos control, atorvastatina y sinvastatina. CONCLUSIÓN: Concluimos que la activación plaquetaria disminuye con la administración de clopidogrel, y que el clopidogrel no tiene su efecto antiplaquetario reducido en la presencia de sinvastatina o atorvastatina.

Contemporary treatment of unstable angina and non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (part 2).

In Part 1 of this review, we discussed how plaque rupture is the most common underlying cause of most cases of unstable angina/non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (UA/NSTEMI) and how early risk stratification is vital for the timely diagnosis and treatment of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Now, in Part 2, we focus on the medical therapies and treatment strategies (early conservative vs early invasive) used for UA/NSTEMI. We also discuss results from various large randomized controlled trials that have led to the contemporary standards of practice for, and reduced morbidity and death from, UA/NSTEMI. In summary, ACS involving UA/NSTEMI is associated with high rates of adverse cardiovascular events, despite recent therapeutic advances. Plaque composition and inflammation are more important in the pathogenesis of ACS than is the actual degree of arterial stenosis. As results from new trials challenge our current practices and help us develop the optimal treatment strategy for UA/NSTEMI patients, the cornerstones of contemporary treatment remain early risk stratification and aggressive medical therapy, supplemented by coronary angiography in appropriately selected patients. An early-invasive-treatment strategy is of most benefit to high-risk patients, whereas an early-conservative strategy is recommended for low-risk patients. Adjunctive medical therapy with acetylsalicylic acid, clopidogrel or another adenosine diphosphate antagonist, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors, and either low-molecular-weight heparin or unfractionated heparin, in the appropriate setting, further reduces the risk of ischemic events secondary to thrombosis. Short- and long-term inhibition of platelet aggregation should be achieved by appropriately evaluating the risk of bleeding complications in these patients.

Antiplatelet therapy and percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute coronary syndrome and thrombocytopenia.

Platelets are crucial in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome. Treatment for acute coronary syndrome usually involves antiplatelet, anticoagulant, and antithrombotic therapy, and the performance of percutaneous coronary intervention. All of the medications are associated with bleeding sequelae and are typically withheld from patients who have thrombocytopenia. The safety of antiplatelet therapy and percutaneous coronary intervention in patients who have acute coronary syndrome and thrombocytopenia is unknown, and there are no guidelines or randomized studies to suggest a treatment approach in such patients. Acute coronary syndrome is uncommon in patients who have thrombocytopenia; however, it occurs in up to 39% of patients who have both thrombocytopenia and cancer. Herein, we present the cases of 5 patients with acute coronary syndrome, thrombocytopenia, and cancer who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting. Before intervention, their platelet counts ranged from 17 to 72 x 10(9)/L. One patient underwent preprocedural platelet transfusion. All were given aspirin, alone or with clopidogrel. One patient experienced melena (of colonic origin). No other patient experienced bleeding sequelae. Aside from the occasional use of antiplatelet and thrombolytic agents in patients with thrombocytopenia, no therapeutic recommendation can be made until data are available on a larger patient population. Until then, treatment should conform to specific clinical circumstances. Approaches to the treatment of acute coronary syndrome in patients with thrombocytopenia might be better directed toward the evaluation of platelet function rather than toward absolute platelet count, and the risk-benefit equation of invasive procedures and antithrombotic therapies may need to incorporate this information.

Drug-eluting stent thrombosis 1,659 days after stent deployment: case report and literature review.

Drug-eluting stents are considered to be superior to bare-metal stents in reducing restenosis rates at 6 months. However, drug-eluting stents appear to be subject to stent thrombosis, a concern that has been reported more frequently in recent times. In November 2003, a 64-year-old man with a medical history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and coronary artery disease underwent percutaneous coronary intervention for the deployment of a sirolimus-eluting stent in the left anterior descending coronary artery. He experienced no complications. More than 4 years later, at age 69, he underwent neurosurgical treatment for a subdural hematoma that resulted from a fall, and he was advised to stop taking aspirin and clopidogrel. Thirty-three days later--1,659 days after stent deployment--he presented with a clinical event that was associated with very late stent thrombosis. After undergoing emergent coronary angiography and the placement of 2 bare-metal stents, he resumed antiplatelet therapy, recovered uneventfully, and was discharged from the hospital in stable condition. To the best of our knowledge, 1,659 days is the longest reported interval between the deployment of a drug-eluting stent and the occurrence of a clinical event that was associated with very late stent thrombosis. Herein, we discuss the case of our patient, review the pertinent medical literature, reinforce the importance of continuous and uninterrupted antiplatelet therapy in drug-eluting stent recipients, and offer considerations regarding the use of drug-eluting stents.

Spontaneous remission of ruptured intramyocardial hematoma detected upon serial multidetector computed tomography.

Intramyocardial hematoma is a rare sequela of percutaneous coronary intervention after acute myocardial infarction. Clinical outcomes of intramyocardial hematoma vary from asymptomatic remission to cardiac death. Close follow-up is imperative. Herein, we report the case of a 69-year-old man who had sustained an acute inferior myocardial infarction. During primary percutaneous coronary intervention to the occluded right coronary artery, an intramyocardial hematoma developed and immediately ruptured into the right ventricle. Because the patient remained hemodynamically stable, a conservative approach was taken. Follow-up with serial multidetector computed tomographic imaging elucidated the course and extent of the hematoma and clearly revealed the healing process. After 1 year, this method of imaging showed complete remission of the hematoma. To the best of our knowledge, this is the 1st use of serial multidetector computed tomography to document the remission of an intramyocardial hematoma that ruptured after complicated percutaneous coronary intervention. We believe that multidetector computed tomography is useful in tracing the natural history of intramyocardial hematomas.

Procedural and long-term outcome of primary percutaneous coronary intervention in octogenarians.

Background/objectives. To investigate the procedural and long-term outcome of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in octogenarians with an acute myocardial infarction.Methods. We performed a retrospective analysis of all consecutive octogenarian patients (n=98) with an acute myocardial infarction treated with primary PCI in the Catharina Hospital in the year 2006. We compared procedural results and outcome with a matched control group composed of non-octogenarians undergoing primary PCI. Follow-up period was one year.Results. The initial success rate of PCI was similar in the two groups but short-term mortality was higher among the elderly patients: 30-day mortality 26.3 vs. 9.6%. Age-adjusted mortality between 30 days and one year was comparable in the two groups and similar to natural survival in the Netherlands. Octogenarians were less likely to have a normal left ventricular function during follow-up (48.3 vs. 66.7%). New York Heart Association (NYHA) class and recurrence rate of myocardial infarction was higher among octogenarians.Conclusion. Technical success rate during primary PCI was as good for octogenarians as in younger patients, but 30-day mortality, though acceptable, was higher among the elderly. After 30 days, age-adjusted mortality was comparable in both groups. (Neth Heart J 2010;18:129-34.).

Door-to-balloon time in primary percutaneous coronary intervention predicts degree of myocardial necrosis as measured using cardiac biomarkers.

Reduced door-to-balloon time in primary percutaneous coronary intervention for the treatment of ST-elevation myocardial infarction has been associated with lower cardiac mortality rates. However, it remains unclear whether door-to-balloon time is predominantly a surrogate for overall peri-myocardial infarction care and is not independently predictive of outcomes, particularly when differences in door-to-balloon time have narrowed and previous studies have contained myocardial infarction-selection bias.We analyzed 179 consecutive patients who presented emergently at our cardiac catheterization laboratory with ST-elevation myocardial infarction within 12 hours of symptom onset and who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention within 3 hours of presentation. Our curve estimation regression model used the natural logarithm (ln) of area under the curve (AUC) of creatine kinase to evaluate the effect of door-to-balloon time on cardiac biomarker levels. We correlated ln (AUC-creatine kinase) with improvement of left ventricular ejection fraction at follow-up and with the intermediate-term mortality rate.Median door-to-balloon time was 87 minutes (interquartile range, 65-113 min). The ln (AUC-creatine kinase) correlated significantly with door-to-balloon time (r=0.2, P=0.02). Upon propensity-score analysis, door-to-balloon time remained a significant independent predictor of ln (AUC-creatine kinase) (beta=0.15, P=0.03). Upon use of a Cox regression model, ln (AUC-creatine kinase) independently predicted death (P=0.04) and recovery of left ventricular function (P=0.001) at follow-up (mean, 14 mo).Longer door-to-balloon time independently predicts increased myocardial cell damage, and ln (AUC-creatine kinase) predicts improvement in left ventricular systolic function and intermediate-term death after ST-elevation myocardial infarction.

Rapamycin inhibits re-endothelialization after percutaneous coronary intervention by impeding the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells and inducing apoptosis of endothelial progenitor cells.

Endothelial-cell function is important in the healing of damaged endothelium after percutaneous coronary artery damage. In 3 different animal models, we sought to determine whether rapamycin (sirolimus) affects the proliferation and migration of endothelial cells and endothelial progenitor cells. First, after we implanted stents in dogs, we found that re-endothelialization was impeded more by drug-eluting stents than by bare-metal stents, 30 days after percutaneous coronary intervention. Second, in vitro in rats, we found that 1-100 ng/mL of rapamycin time- and dose-dependently inhibited proliferation over 72 hr (with effects evident as early as 24 hr) and also dose-dependently induced endothelial progenitor-cell apoptosis. Finally, in vivo in rats, we observed that vascular endothelial growth factor expression was decreased after 5 days of rapamycin treatment. We conclude that rapamycin impedes re-endothelialization after drug-eluting stent implantation by inhibiting the proliferation and migration of coronary endothelial cells, inducing endothelial progenitor-cell apoptosis, and decreasing vascular endothelial growth factor expression in the circulation.