The medical treatment of cardiogenic shock.

Cardiogenic shock is characterized by tissue hypoperfusion due to the inadequate cardiac output to maintain the tissue oxygen demand. Despite some advances in cardiogenic shock management, extremely high mortality is still associated with this clinical syndrome. Its management is based on the immediate stabilization of hemodynamic parameters through medical care and the use of mechanical circulatory supports in specialized centers. This review aims to understand the cardiogenic shock current medical treatment, consisting mainly of inotropic drugs, vasopressors and coronary revascularization. In addition, we highlight the relevance of applying measures to other organ levels based on the optimization of mechanical ventilation and the appropriate initiation of renal replacement therapy.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized and nonrandomized studies on fractional flow reserve-guided revascularization.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of fractional flow reserve (FFR) guidance in improving clinical outcomes after myocardial revascularization, yielding conflicting results. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease following FFR-guided or angiography-guided revascularization. METHODS: Both randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized intervention studies were included. Coprimary endpoints were all-cause death, myocardial infarction, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022344765). RESULTS: A total of 30 studies enrolling 393 588 patients were included. FFR-guided revascularization was associated with significantly lower rates of all-cause death (OR, 0.63; 95%CI, 0.53-0.73), myocardial infarction (OR, 0.70; 95%CI, 0.59-0.84), and MACE (OR, 0.77; 95%CI, 0.70-0.85). When only RCTs were considered, no significant difference between the 2 strategies was observed for any endpoints. However, the use of FFR was associated with reduced rates of revascularizations and treated lesions. Metaregression suggested that the higher the rate of revascularized patients the lower the benefit of FFR guidance on MACE reduction compared with angiography guidance (P=.012). Similarly, higher rates of patients with acute coronary syndromes were associated with a lower benefit of FFR-guided revascularization (P=.039). CONCLUSIONS: FFR-guided revascularization was associated with lower rates of all-cause death, myocardial infarction and MACE compared with angiographic guidance, with RCTs and nonrandomized intervention studies yielding conflicting data. The benefits of FFR-guidance seem to be less evident in studies with high revascularization rates and with a high prevalence of patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Dexmedetomidine mitigates acute kidney injury after coronary artery bypass grafting: a prospective clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of dexmedetomidine impact on cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney injury (CSA-AKI), kidney function, and metabolic and oxidative stress in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting with heart-lung machine support. METHODS: A randomized double-masked trial with 238 participants (50-75 years) undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting was conducted from January 2021 to December 2022. The participants were divided into Dex (n=119) and NS (n = 119) groups. Dex was administered at 0.5 mcg/kg over 10minutes, then 0.4 mcg/kg/h until the end of surgery; the NS group received equivalent saline. Blood and urine were sampled at various time points pre- and postsurgery. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of CSA-AKI, defined as the occurrence of AKI within 96hours after surgery. RESULTS: The incidence of CSA-AKI was significantly lower in the Dex group than in the NS group (18.26% vs 32.46%; P=.014). Substantial increases were found in estimated glomerular filtration rate value at T4-T6 (P<.05) and urine volume 24hours after surgery (P<.01). Marked decreases were found in serum creatinine level, blood glucose level at T1-T2 (P<.01), blood urea nitrogen level at T3-T6 (P<.01), free fatty acid level at T2-T3 (P<.01), and lactate level at T3-T4 (P<.01). CONCLUSIONS: Dex reduces CSA-AKI, potentially by regulating metabolic disorders and reducing oxidative stress.

Results beyond 5-years of surgery or percutaneous approach in severe coronary disease. Reconstructed time-to-event meta-analysis of randomized trials.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: There is controversy about the optimal revascularization strategy in severe coronary artery disease (CAD), including left main disease and/or multivessel disease. Several meta-analyses have analyzed the results at 5-year follow-up but there are no results after the fifth year. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials, comparing results after the fifth year, between coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using drug-eluting stents in patients with severe CAD. METHODS: We analyzed all clinical trials between January 2010 and January 2023. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. The databases of the original articles were reconstructed from Kaplan-Meier curves, simulating an individual-level meta-analysis. Comparisons were made at certain cutoff points (5 and 10 years). The 10-year restricted median survival time difference between CABG and PCI was calculated. The random effects model and the DerSimonian-Laird method were applied. RESULTS: The meta-analysis included 5180 patients. During the 10-year follow-up, PCI showed a higher overall incidence of all-cause mortality (HR, 1.19; 95%CI, 1.04-1.32; P=.008)]. PCI showed an increased risk of all-cause mortality within 5 years (HR, 1.2; 95%CI, 1.06-1.53; P=.008), while no differences in the 5-10-year period were revealed (HR, 1.03; 95%CI, 0.84-1.26; P=.76). Life expectancy of CABG patients was slightly higher than that of PCI patients (2.4 months more). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with severe CAD, including left main disease and/or multivessel disease, there was higher a incidence of all-cause mortality after PCI compared with CABG at 10 years of follow-up. Specifically, PCI has higher mortality during the first 5 years and comparable risk beyond 5 years.

Registro de síndromes coronarios agudos en centros de alta complejidad de Argentina. ReSCAR 2022 / Acute Coronary Syndromes in High Complexity Centers of Argentina. The ReSCAR Registry

RESUMEN Introducción : Realizamos un registro multicéntrico para analizar el abordaje diagnóstico y terapéutico de todos los tipos de síndromes coronarios agudos; este registro es el primero en abordar en detalle aquellos cuadros que cursan sin enfermedad coronaria epicárdica significativa. Es importante conocer la realidad del actual accionar médico con el objeto de hallar oportunidades de mejora. Material y métodos : Se registraron en forma prospectiva pacientes hospitalizados por síndrome coronario agudo en 15 centros de Argentina, con diagnóstico con troponina ultrasensible, servicio de unidad coronaria y hemodinamia disponible las 24 horas, entre enero y agosto de 2022. Resultados : Se incluyeron 984 pacientes consecutivos, un 22,2% con angina inestable, 39,1% con infarto agudo de miocardio sin elevación del segmento ST (IAMSEST) y 24,1% con infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMCEST). Por otro lado, el 4,1% se presentó como IAM tipo 2, 1,2% como miocarditis, 0,7% como síndrome de Takotsubo y 8,6% como infarto de miocardio con enfermedad coronaria no obstructiva (MINOCA). La mediana (rango intercuartílico, RIC) de edad fue de 66 años (56,5-74), con un 75,3% de pacientes de sexo masculino. El manejo inicial de los pacientes sin elevación del segmento ST fue invasivo en el 84%, con una tasa de enfermedad coronaria significativa del 76,5%. En cuanto a la evolución intrahospitalaria, las complicaciones isquémicas más relevantes fueron el reinfarto (2,84%), angina recurrente (2,4%), angina post infarto (2%) y trombosis intra stent (0,5%). El porcentaje de eventos hemorrágicos totales fue de 4,4% y la mortalidad intrahospitalaria total fue de 3,76%. Conclusiones : El registro tiene una buena representación del espectro de pacientes con sospecha inicial de síndrome coronario agudo, manejados en centros con una estrategia inicial principalmente invasiva, con una baja tasa de complicaciones hospitalarias y una mortalidad global aceptable.

ABSTRACT Background : We conducted a multicenter registry to analyze the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to all types of acute coronary syndromes; this registry is the first to provide detailed information on conditions without significant epicardial coronary artery disease. Knowing the reality of current medical practice is important to find opportunities for improvement. Methods : Patients hospitalized for acute coronary syndrome between January and August 2022 in 15 centers of Argentina, with high-sensitivity cardiac troponin, coronary care unit, and catheterization laboratory available 24 hours, were prospectively recorded. Results : A total of 984 consecutive patients were included, 22.2% with unstable angina, 39.1% with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and 24.1% with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Additionally, 4.1% presented as type 2 AMI, 1.2% as myocarditis, 0.7% as Takotsubo syndrome and 8.6% as myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA). Median age was 66 years [interquartile range (IQR) 56.5-74] and 75.3% were men. An early invasive management was used in 84% of patients without ST segment elevation, and 76.5% of them had significant coronary artery disease. During hospitalization, 2.84% of the patients presented reinfarction, 2.43% recurrent angina, 2% postinfarction angina and 0.5% stent thrombosis. Bleeding events occurred in 4.4% of the patients, and overall in-hospital mortality was 3.76%. Conclusions : The registry has a good representation of the spectrum of patients with initial suspicion of "acute coronary syndrome", managed in centers with an invasive initial strategy and with low rate of in-hospital complications and acceptable overall mortality.

Cirugía de revascularización coronaria sin bomba con 2 arterias mamarias en la enfermedad del tronco ¿genera beneficio en la mortalidad a 10 años? / Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery with Bilateral Internal Mammary Arteries in Left Main Coronary Artery Disease. Is There Any Benefit in 10-Year Mortality?

RESUMEN Introducción: Los ensayos clínicos aleatorizados que compararon la cirugía de revascularización miocárdica (CRM) con la angioplastia transluminal coronaria (ATC) incluyeron todo tipo de técnicas quirúrgicas (con y sin bomba de circulación extracorpórea) y diversos conductos (arteriales y venosos). ¿Es razonable suponer que todas las técnicas quirúrgicas son iguales en términos de mortalidad tardía? Objetivos: Evaluar si la CRM sin circulación extracorpórea y con el empleo de ambas arterias mamarias tiene un beneficio adicional a la revascularización convencional utilizando una sola arteria mamaria en términos de sobrevida a largo plazo para la enfermedad del tronco de la coronaria izquierda (TCI). Material y métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo comparativo (n = 723) ajustado por riesgo. Se realizó análisis estratificado según el uso de arteria mamaria interna única (SITA, n = 144) o ambas arterias mamarias internas (BITA, n = 579). Se analizó la sobrevida a los 10 años de la intervención. Resultados: La supervivencia a los 10 años fue significativamente mayor en el grupo en que se utilizaron ambas arterias mamarias (79,0% ± 3,4% vs 67,0% ± 4,9%, log-rank test, p <0,01). Este beneficio también se observó en el análisis ajustado por riesgo (93,0% ± 4,6 vs 69,0% ± 5,7 respectivamente, p = 0,03). El uso de ambas arterias mamarias fue un predictor independiente de sobrevida a 10 años (HR 0,57, IC 95% 0,37-0,87; p = 0,01). Conclusión: El uso de ambas arterias mamarias internas en pacientes con enfermedad del tronco coronario izquierdo sometidos a revascularización coronaria sin circulación extracorpórea se asoció con mayor sobrevida a los 10 años.

ABSTRACT Background: The randomized controlled trials comparing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery versus percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) included all types of surgical techniques (on-pump and off-pump) and different conduits (arterial and venous). Is it reasonable to assume that all surgical techniques are equal in terms of late mortality? Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate whether off-pump CABG surgery using both mammary arteries provides additional benefit over conventional revascularization using single mammary artery in terms of long-term survival for left main coronary artery (LMCA) disease. Methods: We conducted a retrospective, observational and comparative study (n=723) adjusted for risk. A stratified analysis was performed according to the use of single internal thoracic artery (SITA, n=144) or bilateral internal thoracic arteries (BITA, n=579) analyzing survival at 10 years after the intervention. Results: Survival at 10 years was significantly higher in BITA group (79.0%±3.4% vs 67.0%±4.9%, log-rank test, p <0.01). This advantage was also observed in the risk-adjusted analysis (93.0%±4.6 vs 69.0%±5.7 respectively, p=0.03). The use of BITA was an independent predictor of 10-year survival (HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.37-0.87, p=0.01). Conclusion: The use of bilateral internal mammary arteries in patients with left main coronary artery disease undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting was associated with higher survival at 10 years.

Disfunción del nódulo sinusal asociado a estenosis severa proximal de la arteria coronaria derecha y vasoespasmo coronario

RESUMEN La disfunción del nódulo sinusal (DNS) es generalmente secundaria a la senescencia del nodo sinusal y del miocardio auricular circundante. Estamos presentando un paciente de 59 años de edad, hipertenso sin tratamiento y con antecedente de síncope en dos oportunidades en los últimos 4 meses. Ingresa debido a un flutter auricular con conducción auriculoventricular 1:1 con una frecuencia cardiaca de 280 lat/min que cede con goteo de amiodarona. Un Holter de 24 horas demostró un ritmo sinusal predominante, episodios paroxísticos de fibrilación auricular con respuesta ventricular alta, bradicardia sinusal de 47 lat/min. Se realizó el diagnóstico de disfunción del nódulo sinusal, Rubenstein tipo III (Síndrome Bradicardia-Taquicardia). Una coronariografía constató una estenosis del 80% en segmento proximal de la arteria coronaria derecha con componente espástico. La arteria del nódulo sinusal emerge del segmento proximal de la coronaria derecha. Se realizó una angioplastia exitosa con stent medicado. Otro estudio Holter de 24 horas de control pos-angioplastia registró nuevamente episodios paroxísticos de fibrilación auricular con respuesta ventricular alta y episodios de pausas de hasta 3.100 milisegundos por lo que se implantó un marcapasos bicameral. A pesar del restablecimiento de un flujo sanguíneo adecuado a la arteria del nódulo sinusal con la angioplastia de la coronaria derecha no se obtuvo una mejoría de la disfunción del nódulo sinusal.

ABSTRACT Sinus node dysfunction (SND) is generally secondary to senescence of the sinus node and the surrounding atrial myocardium. We are presenting a 59-year-old patient, hypertensive without treatment and with a history of syncope on two occasions in the last 4 months. He was admitted due to a 1: 1 atrioventricular conduction atrial flutter with a heart rate of 280 beats/min that subsides with an amiodarone drip. A 24-hour Holter monitor showed predominant sinus rhythm, paroxysmal episodes of atrial fibrillation with high ventricular response, sinus bradycardia of 47 beats/min. The diagnosis of sinus node dysfunction, Rubenstein type III (Bradycardia-Tachycardia Syndrome) was made. A coronary angiography confirmed an 80% stenosis in the proximal segment of the right coronary artery with a spastic component. The sinus node artery emerges from the proximal segment of the right coronary artery. A successful angioplasty was performed with a medicated stent. Another 24-hour Holter study of post-angioplasty control again recorded paroxysmal atrial fibrillation with high ventricular response episodes and pause episodes of up to 3,100 milliseconds, for which a dual-chamber pacemaker was implanted. Despite the restoration of adequate blood flow to the sinus node artery with right coronary angioplasty, no improvement in sinus node dysfunction was obtained.

Coronary artery bypass on survival in patients with moderate ischemic mitral regurgitation: meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to systematically evaluate the effect of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or CABG combined with mitral valve surgery (cMVS) on post-operative survival in patients with moderate ischemic mitral valve regurgitation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, COCHRANE LIBRARY, WanFang Data, and CNKI Data were searched from inception to January 2020. According to the inclusion criterion, relevant articles were screened. After that we extracted data, assessed quality, and performed meta-analysis using RevMan 5.2. RESULTS: A total of 4 randomized controlled trial and 14 retrospective study involving 4476 patients were included in the study. The CABG group was 2278 and the cMVS group was 1698. The results of meta-analysis showed that compared with CABG group, there were no statistically significant differences in the recent mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 0.88, p = 0.62), 1-year survival (OR = 1.03, p = 0.82), 1-year survival (OR = 1.07, p = 0.62), and long-term survival (OR = 0.95, p = 0.61) of the cMVS group. CONCLUSION: Current evidence indicates that patients in the cMVS group did not benefit from CABG group in survival after surgery.

OBJETIVO: . Evaluar sistemáticamente el efecto del injerto de derivación de la arteria coronaria (CABG) o el injerto de derivación de la arteria coronaria combinados con la cirugía de la válvula mitral (cMVS) sobre la supervivencia posoperatoria en pacientes con insuficiencia valvular mitral isquémica moderada. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: . Se realizaron búsquedas en bases de datos que incluyen Pubmed, Web of Science, COCHRANE LIBRARY, WanFang Data y CNKI Data desde el inicio hasta enero de 2020. De acuerdo con el criterio de inclusión, se seleccionaron los artículos relevantes. Después de eso, extrajimos los datos, evaluamos la calidad y realizamos el metanálisis con RevMan 5.2. RESULTADOS: . Se incluyó un total de 4 ensayos controlados aleatorios (ECA) y 14 estudios retrospectivos con 4476 pacientes. El grupo CABG fue 2278, el grupo cMVS fue 1698. Los resultados del metanálisis mostraron que, en comparación con el grupo CABG, no hubo diferencias estadísticamente significativas en la mortalidad reciente (OR = 0.88, p = 0.62), supervivencia a 1 año (OR = 1.03, p = 0.82), supervivencia a 1 año (OR = 1.07, p = 0.62) y supervivencia a largo plazo (OR = 0.95, p = 0.61) del grupo cMVS. CONCLUSIÓN: . La evidencia actual indica que los pacientes del grupo cMVS no se beneficiaron del grupo CABG en la supervivencia después de la cirugía.

Complicaciones de la cirugía de revascularización coronaria en pacientes con diabetes mellitus de tipo II / Complications of the coronary revascularization surgery in patients with type II diabetes mellitus

Introducción: La diabetes mellitus y la cardiopatía isquémica están íntimamente relacionadas, puesto que los pacientes con la primera tienen más riesgo de presentar la segunda, así como mayor mortalidad cardiovascular. Objetivo: Identificar las complicaciones posoperatorias en pacientes con diabetes mellitus de tipo II. Método: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de serie de casos de 203 pacientes con diabetes mellitus de tipo II, expuestos a cirugía de revascularización coronaria en el Cardiocentro del Hospital Provincial Docente Saturnino Lora de Santiago de Cuba, desde enero de 2011 hasta igual periodo de 2020. Resultados: En la casuística resultaron más afectados el sexo masculino (56,1 %) y el grupo etario de 45 - 64 años (53,7 %), quienes tenían más de 10 años con la enfermedad endocrina y se le había detectado la cardiopatía isquémica en el último, con una forma de presentación aguda. Se encontraron varios factores de riesgo, tales como enfermedad coronaria difusa, niveles de glucemia elevada en el periodo perioperatorio y fracción ventricular izquierda baja. En la mayoría de las intervenciones quirúrgicas se empleó la técnica de corazón latiendo (81,8 %), y las complicaciones predominantes fueron arritmias supraventriculares, bajo gasto cardiaco e infecciones de la herida. Conclusiones: La cirugía de coronaria en pacientes con diabetes mellitus de tipo II es el método que logra una revascularización más completa, tanto anatómica como funcional, y la técnica de corazón latiendo alcanza reducir la mortalidad, aunque aún son frecuentes las complicaciones atribuibles a causas multifactoriales.

Introduction: The diabetes mellitus and ischemic heart disease are closely related, since patients with the former have more risk of presenting the latter, as well as higher cardiovascular mortality. Objective: To identify the postoperative complications in patients with type II diabetes mellitus. Method: A serial cases descriptive study of 203 patients with type II diabetes mellitus, exposed to coronary revascularization surgery was carried out in the Heart Center of Saturnino Lora Teaching Provincial Hospital Hospital in Santiago de Cuba, from January, 2011 to the same period in 2020. Results: In the case material the male sex (56.1 %) and the 45 - 64 age group (53.7 %) were more affected, who had more than 10 years with the endocrine disease and the ischemic heart disease had been detected in the latter, with an acute form of presentation. Several risk factors were found, such as diffuse coronary disease, glycemia high levels in the perioperative period and low left ventricular fraction. In most of the surgical interventions the heart beating technique was used (81.8 %), and the predominant complications were supraventricular arrhythmias, low heart output and infections of the wound. Conclusions: The surgery of coronary in patients with type II diabetes mellitus is the method that achieves a more complete revascularization, either anatomical as functional, and the heart beating technique reduces the mortality, although the complications attributable to multifactorial causes are still frequent.

Role of ankle brachial index measured by simple automatic sphygmomanometers in predicting postoperative kidney function in patients undergoing major cardiac surgery / El papel del índice tobillo-brazo medido mediante un esfigmomanómetro automático para pronosticar la función renal posoperatoria en pacientes que se sometieron a una cirugía cardíaca mayor

Abstract Introduction: Ankle-brachial pressure index is an objective, noninvasive test for predicting subclinical atherosclerotic diseases. We investigated the role of ankle-brachial pressure index measured with automated sphygmomanometer devices in the prediction of the development of acute kidney injury in patients undergoing major cardiac surgery. Methods: This single-centered, cross-sectional, and observational study was performed on 80 (66 males and 14 females, 58 ± 10 years) patients undergone cardiac surgery. Complete anamnesis, laboratory tests, intravenous fluids, medications, blood products, and all perioperative procedures were recorded in all patients before the surgery. Two automated sphygmomanometer devices giving equivalent results were used for measuring Ankle-brachial pressure index. The data in the first two days after the surgery were used for analysis. The criteria of AKIN were used in the diagnosis of acute kidney injury. Results: Twenty-one (23%) patients developed acute kidney injury in the postoperative period. None of the patients needed renal replacement therapy or died. There was no significant difference between mean ankle-brachial pressure index levels of patients with and without acute kidney injury (1.04 ± 0.17 and 1.06 ± 0.19, respectively, p=0.554). The mean ankle-brachial pressure index was significantly lower in patients with perioperative complications that cause hemodynamic instability (1.07 ± 0.14, 0.96 ± 0.13, p=0.016). On the multivariate analysis model, only perioperative hemodynamic complication development was found to be related to postoperative acute kidney injury. Conclusion: Ankle-brachial pressure index may have a role in predicting perioperative hemodynamic complications, which may cause acute kidney injury in patients undergoing major surgery. Simple automatic blood pressure devices can be used in daily practice for ankle-brachial pressure index measurement instead of complex and expensive doppler devices.

Resumen Introducción: El índice tobillo-brazo (ITB) es una prueba objetiva y no invasiva para diagnosticar la aterosclerosis asintomática. Investigamos el papel del índice tobillo-brazo medido a través de esfigmomanómetros automáticos para pronosticar el desarrollo de insuficiencia renal aguda en pacientes que se sometieron a una cirugía cardíaca mayor. Material y métodos: En este estudio observacional, transversal y unicéntrico, se incluyó a 80 pacientes (66 hombres y 14 mujeres de 58 ± 10 años) que se sometieron a una cirugía cardíaca. Se registraron los siguientes datos de todos los pacientes antes de la cirugía: anamnesis completa, análisis clínicos, líquidos intravenosos, medicamentos, productos hemoderivados e intervenciones perioperatorias. Para medir el ITB, se utilizaron dos esfigmomanómetros automáticos que arrojaron resultados similares. Se analizaron los datos recogidos los primeros dos días luego de la cirugía. Se siguieron los criterios de la AKIN para diagnosticar la insuficiencia renal aguda. Resultados: Veintiún pacientes (23 %) sufrieron insuficiencia renal aguda en el postoperatorio. Ninguno de los pacientes necesitó tratamiento renal sustitutivo ni falleció. No hubo diferencias significativas entre los valores medios del índice tobillo-brazo en pacientes con insuficiencia renal aguda y sin ella (1,04 ± 0,17 y 1,06 ± 0,19, respectivamente; p=0,554). El valor medio del ITB fue significativamente menor en pacientes con complicaciones perioperatorias que causan inestabilidad hemodinámica (1,07 ± 0,14; 0,96 ± 0,13; p=0,016). En el modelo de análisis multivariado, solo se encontró que la aparición de complicaciones hemodinámicas perioperatorias estaba relacionada con la insuficiencia renal aguda luego de la operación quirúrgica. Conclusión: Es posible que el ITB desempeñe un papel en la predicción de complicaciones hemodinámicas perioperatorias, que pueden causar insuficiencia renal aguda en pacientes sometidos a cirugía mayor. En la práctica diaria, pueden utilizarse dispositivos automáticos simples que calculan la tensión arterial para medir el índice tobillo-brazo, en lugar de dispositivos Doppler complejos y costosos.

Clinical recurrence in patients with sequential bridges in coronary artery bypass grafting. / Recurrencia clínica en pacientes con puentes secuenciales en cirugía de revascularización coronaria.

Objetivo: Comparar las tasas de recurrencia de revascularización coronaria (cirugía o intervención coronaria percutánea), nuevo evento isquémico o muerte en pacientes con puentes secuenciales y con puentes simples. Método: Cohortes ambispectivas de pacientes sometidos a cirugía de revascularización coronaria secuencial (n = 111) o simple (n = 145) entre el 1 de enero de 2013 y el 31 de diciembre de 2017. Pacientes mayores de 18 años en un primer procedimiento de revascularización, con circulación extracorpórea. Para el seguimiento se realizó revisión del expediente o comunicación telefónica hasta el 9 de febrero de 2019. Se investigaron los siguientes desenlaces: reintervención por isquemia coronaria, nuevo evento isquémico documentado o muerte atribuida a cardiopatía isquémica; también se obtuvieron curvas de sobrevida. Resultados: La proporción de recurrencia según la técnica quirúrgica no fue estadísticamente diferente: secuencial 6.5% (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 2.6-12.6%) contra simple 4.8% (IC95%: 2-9.7%; p = 0.60; análisis bayesiano BF10 = 0.37; evidencia moderada a no diferencia), todos por nuevo evento isquémico y un fallecimiento por grupo. No hubo diferencias en el tiempo de seguimiento: secuencial 59 meses (IC95%: 56-62) y simple 66 meses (IC95%: 64-68). No encontramos diferencia en las tasas de incidencia de recurrencia: secuencial 1.99 eventos/103 meses-paciente contra simple 1.47 (hazard ratio: 1.34; IC95%: 0.47-3.8; p = 0.58). El tiempo promedio de pinzamiento y de circulación extracorpórea por puente fue menor en el grupo de puentes combinados (41.44 minutos de circulación extracorpórea y 24.69 minutos de pinzamiento/puente) que en el de puentes simples (43 minutos en circulación extracorpórea y 26.4 minutos de pinzamiento/puente) cuando se ajusta al promedio de puentes colocados (simples 2.7 y secuencial 3.25; p < 0.001); sin embargo, no se encontró significancia estadística (p = 0.7). Conclusión: Ambos procedimientos tuvieron una baja incidencia de recurrencia de eventos clínicos, sin diferencias entre las técnicas quirúrgicas. Objective: To compare the recurrence rates of revascularization (redo CABG or PCI), new ischemic event or death in patients with simple grafts and patients with sequential grafts. Method: Study design is an ambispective cohort of patients that underwent CABG by sequential grafting (n = 111) or simple grafting (n = 145) between January 1st, 2013 and December 31st, 2017. Patients had to be 18 years old at the time of surgery, undergoing their first on-pump CABG. The clinical record of every patient was carefully reviewed and patients who had incomplete follow-up in external consultation were contacted by telephone in order to obtain data about ischemia related reintervention (CABG or PCI), new documented ischemic event or death caused by coronary artery disease, Kaplan-Meier estimators were calculated. Results: The proportion of recurrence depending on technique was not statistically different: sequential (6.5% [CI95% 2.6-12.6%] versus simple 4.8% [CI95% 2-9.7%], p = 0.60, Bayesian analysis BF10 = 0.37; moderate evidence to no difference), each one related to new ischemic event and one death per group. There were no differences in follow-up time (sequential 59m [CI95% 56-62] simple 66m [CI95% 64-68]). No difference was found regarding recurrence incidence rates; sequential 1.99 events x 103 months-patient, versus simple 1.47 (HR=1.34; CI95% 0.47-3.8, p = 0.58). Pump and cross-clamping times were lower for sequential technique (41.44 min; 24.69 min respectively) versus simple technique (43 min; 26.4 min respectively) with a p = 0.7 after adjusting to mean grafts per surgery (2.7 simple; 3.25 sequential, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Both techniques had a low incidence of clinical recurrence, without significant differences between procedures.

Recurrencia clínica en pacientes con puentes secuenciales en cirugía de revascularización coronaria / Clinical recurrence in patients with sequential bridges in coronary artery bypass grafting

Resumen Objetivo: Comparar las tasas de recurrencia de revascularización coronaria (cirugía o intervención coronaria percutánea), nuevo evento isquémico o muerte en pacientes con puentes secuenciales y con puentes simples. Método: Cohortes ambispectivas de pacientes sometidos a cirugía de revascularización coronaria secuencial (n = 111) o simple (n = 145) entre el 1 de enero de 2013 y el 31 de diciembre de 2017. Pacientes mayores de 18 años en un primer procedimiento de revascularización, con circulación extracorpórea. Para el seguimiento se realizó revisión del expediente o comunicación telefónica hasta el 9 de febrero de 2019. Se investigaron los siguientes desenlaces: reintervención por isquemia coronaria, nuevo evento isquémico documentado o muerte atribuida a cardiopatía isquémica; también se obtuvieron curvas de sobrevida. Resultados: La proporción de recurrencia según la técnica quirúrgica no fue estadísticamente diferente: secuencial 6.5% (intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC95%]: 2.6-12.6%) contra simple 4.8% (IC95%: 2-9.7%; p = 0.60; análisis bayesiano BF10 = 0.37; evidencia moderada a no diferencia), todos por nuevo evento isquémico y un fallecimiento por grupo. No hubo diferencias en el tiempo de seguimiento: secuencial 59 meses (IC95%: 56-62) y simple 66 meses (IC95%: 64-68). No encontramos diferencia en las tasas de incidencia de recurrencia: secuencial 1.99 eventos/103 meses-paciente contra simple 1.47 (hazard ratio: 1.34; IC95%: 0.47-3.8; p = 0.58). El tiempo promedio de pinzamiento y de circulación extracorpórea por puente fue menor en el grupo de puentes combinados (41.44 minutos de circulación extracorpórea y 24.69 minutos de pinzamiento/puente) que en el de puentes simples (43 minutos en circulación extracorpórea y 26.4 minutos de pinzamiento/puente) cuando se ajusta al promedio de puentes colocados (simples 2.7 y secuencial 3.25; p < 0.001); sin embargo, no se encontró significancia estadística (p = 0.7). Conclusión: Ambos procedimientos tuvieron una baja incidencia de recurrencia de eventos clínicos, sin diferencias entre las técnicas quirúrgicas.

Abstract Objective: To compare the recurrence rates of revascularization (redo CABG or PCI), new ischemic event or death in patients with simple grafts and patients with sequential grafts. Method: Study design is an ambispective cohort of patients that underwent CABG by sequential grafting (n = 111) or simple grafting (n = 145) between January 1st, 2013 and December 31st, 2017. Patients had to be 18 years old at the time of surgery, undergoing their first on-pump CABG. The clinical record of every patient was carefully reviewed and patients who had incomplete follow-up in external consultation were contacted by telephone in order to obtain data about ischemia related reintervention (CABG or PCI), new documented ischemic event or death caused by coronary artery disease, Kaplan-Meier estimators were calculated. Results: The proportion of recurrence depending on technique was not statistically different: sequential (6.5% [CI95% 2.6-12.6%] versus simple 4.8% [CI95% 2-9.7%], p = 0.60, Bayesian analysis BF10 = 0.37; moderate evidence to no difference), each one related to new ischemic event and one death per group. There were no differences in follow-up time (sequential 59m [CI95% 56-62] simple 66m [CI95% 64-68]). No difference was found regarding recurrence incidence rates; sequential 1.99 events x 103 months-patient, versus simple 1.47 (HR=1.34; CI95% 0.47-3.8, p = 0.58). Pump and cross-clamping times were lower for sequential technique (41.44 min; 24.69 min respectively) versus simple technique (43 min; 26.4 min respectively) with a p = 0.7 after adjusting to mean grafts per surgery (2.7 simple; 3.25 sequential, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Both techniques had a low incidence of clinical recurrence, without significant differences between procedures.

Cost-effectiveness of myocardial perfusion SPECT and stress test according to coronary revascularization therapy, cardiac events and total mortality: Register of 8,496 patients. / Coste-efectividad de la SPECT de perfusión miocárdica y de la prueba de esfuerzo en relación con la revascularización coronaria, eventos cardíacos y mortalidad total. Registro de 8.496 pacientes.

OBJECTIVE: The aim was to analyze the cost-effectiveness ratio (CER) of stress electrocardiogram (ES) and stress myocardial perfusion imaging (SPECT-MPI) according to coronary revascularization (CR) therapy, cardiac events (CE) and total mortality (TM). MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 8,496 consecutive patients who underwent SPECT-MPI were followed-up (mean 5.3±3.5years). Cost-effectiveness for coronary bypass (CABG) or percutaneous CR (PCR) (45.6%/54.4%) according to combined electrocardiographic ischemia and scintigraphic ischemia were evaluated. Effectiveness was evaluated as TM, CE, life-year saved observed (LYSO) and CE-LYSO; costs analyses were conducted from the perspective of the health care payer. A sensitivity analysis was performed considering current CABG/PCR ratios (12%/88%). RESULTS: When electrocardiogram and SPECT approaches are combined, the cost-effectiveness values for CABG ranged between 112,589€ (electrocardiographic and scintigraphic ischemia) and 2,814,715€ (without ischemia)/event avoided, 38,664 and 2,221,559€/LYSO; for PCR ranged between 18,824€ (electrocardiographic and scintigraphic ischemia) and 46,377€ (without ischemia)/event avoided, 6,464 and 36,604€/LYSO. To CE: the cost-effectiveness values of the CABG and CPR in presence of electrocardiographic and scintigraphic ischemia were 269,904€/CE-avoided and 24,428€/CE-avoided, respectively; and the €/LYSO of the CABG and PCR were 152,488 and 13,801, respectively. The RCE was maintained for the current proportion of revascularized patients (12%/88%). CONCLUSIONS: Combined ES and SPECT-MPI results, allows differentiation between patient groups, where the PCR and CABG are more cost-effective in different economic frameworks. The major CER in relation to CR, CE and TM occurs in patients with electrocardiographic and scintigraphic ischemia. PCR is more cost-effective than CABG.

Beneficios perioperatorios por condicionamiento isquémico a distancia en la revascularización coronaria / Perioperative benefits of distant ischemic conditioning in coronary revascularization

Introducción: Una serie de breves periodos de isquemias a distancia pueden limitar el daño miocárdico producido por la isquemia/reperfusión. Objetivo: Analizar las diferencias entre los dos grupos (control y estudio) teniendo en cuanta el consumo de inotrópicos y/o vasopresores durante los períodos intra y posoperatorio, así como, incidencia de eventos adversos cardiacos mayores y mortalidad en el postoperatorio. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental, explicativo, comparativo con control histórico, en dos grupos de 247 pacientes, propuestos para revascularización coronaria. Se colocó un torniquete en el brazo derecho, en el grupo estudio, alternando 3 insuflaciones con 3 desinsuflaciones con una presión de 200 mmHg, manteniéndola 5 min cada una. Este proceder se realizó previo, durante y después del evento isquémico mayor, provocado por el pinzamiento de la arteria coronaria. Resultados: Se logró una disminución significativa del consumo de drogas inotrópicas y vasoactivas. Se comprobó además, la disminución en la incidencia de bajo gasto cardiaco reversible, fibrilación ventricular, nuevo infarto agudo de miocardio. Conclusiones: El condicionamiento isquémico a distancia es una importante herramienta a tener en cuenta para la protección cardiaca perioperatoria en la revascularización coronaria(AU)

Introduction: A series of brief distant ischemia periods can limit myocardial damage produced by ischemia or reperfusion. Objective: To analyze the differences between the two groups (control and study) taking into account the consumption of inotropics and/or vasopressors during the intraoperative and postoperative periods, as well as the incidence of major cardiac adverse events and mortality in the postoperative period. Methods: A quasiexperimental, explanatory and comparative study with historical control was conducted on two groups of 247 patients proposed for coronary revascularization. A tourniquet was placed to the right arm, in the study group, alternating three insufflations with three dessufflations with a pressure of 200 mmHg, keeping each for five minutes. This procedure was performed before, during and after the major ischemic event, caused by pinching of the coronary artery. Results: A significant decrease in the consumption of inotropic and vasoactive drugs was achieved. The decrease in the incidence of low reversible cardiac output, ventricular fibrillation, and new acute myocardial infarction was also proven. Conclusions: Distant ischemic conditioning is an important tool to be taken into account for perioperative cardiac protection in coronary revascularization(AU)

Percutaneous cardiological intervention and cardiac surgery: patient-centered care. Position statement of the Spanish Society of Cardiology.

The percutaneous treatment of coronary artery disease and some structural cardiovascular diseases has undergone spectacular changes. More and more patients with different types of heart disease are being treated by percutaneous or transcatheter interventions, with no such increase in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. This situation has led to different types of approach, requiring an objective analysis that includes all the factors possibly influencing these changes. This document assesses the 2 scenarios where this problem is most evident: coronary revascularization and the treatment of aortic stenosis. The document analyzes the situation of coronary revascularization in Spain, and the causes that may explain the differences between the number of patients who currently undergo percutaneous revascularization and those who undergo coronary surgery. In contrast, treatment of aortic stenosis through transcatheter aortic valve implantation will lead to a foreseeable reduction in the number of candidates for surgical replacement. Several international scientific societies have published the requirements on training and experience and the necessary operator and center volumes to implement a transcatheter aortic valve implantation program, conditions that the Spanish Society of Cardiology, adopting a patient-centered approach, considers absolutely essential. Given that the 2 forms of intervention (percutaneous and surgical) are complementary, multidisciplinary patient assessment (Heart Team) remains crucial to offer the best treatment option. In this scenario of diverse approaches, a key figure is the clinical cardiologist. Finally, the changes currently occurring in the treatment of structural heart disease will, in future, lead to the performance of procedures requiring the participation of professionals from both specialties. This approach will require a redesign of current training programs.

Protección miocárdica por condicionamiento isquémico a distancia en la revascularización coronaria / Myocardial protection by ischemic remote conditioning in coronary revascularization

Introducción: Una serie de breves períodos de isquemias a distancia, previo al evento isquémico mayor, pueden limitar el daño miocárdico producido por la isquemia/reperfusión. Objetivo: Evaluar la utilidad del condicionamiento isquémico a distancia, en pacientes programados para procedimientos quirúrgicos de revascularización coronaria. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio cuasiexperimental, explicativo, comparativo con control histórico, en dos grupos de 247 pacientes, propuestos para revascularización coronaria. Se colocó un torniquete en el brazo derecho, en el grupo estudio, alternando 3 insuflaciones con 3 desinsuflaciones con una presión de 200 mmHg, manteniéndola 5 min cada una. Este proceder se realizó previo, durante y después del evento isquémico mayor, provocado por el pinzamiento de la arteria coronaria. Resultados: Se logró una disminución significativa de los parámetros enzimáticos. No se encontraron diferencias significativas (p>0,05) según un conjunto de variables que representan el estado inicial de los pacientes(AU)

Introduction: A series of short periods of distant ischemia, prior to the major ischemic event, can limit the myocardial damage produced by ischemia or reperfusion. Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of remote ischemic conditioning in patients scheduled for surgical procedures of coronary revascularization. Methods: A quasi-experimental, explanatory, comparative study with historical control was conducted in two groups of 247 patients proposed for coronary revascularization. A tourniquet was placed in the right arm in the study group, alternating 3 insufflations with 3 dessufflations with a pressure of 200 mmHg, keeping each for 5 minutes. This procedure was performed before, during and after the major ischemic event, caused by the impingement of the coronary artery. Results: A significant decrease in enzymatic parameters was achieved. No significant differences were found (p>0.05) according to a set of variables that represent the initial state of the patients(AU)

Impact of Percutaneous Coronary Revascularization of Severe Coronary Lesions on Secondary Branches.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: To analyze the percutaneous revascularization strategy for severe lesions in the secondary branches (SB) (diameter ≥ 2mm) of major epicardial arteries compared with conservative treatment. METHODS: This study analyzed patients with severe SB lesions who underwent percutaneous revascularization treatment compared with patients who received pharmacological treatment. The study examined the percentage of branch-related events (cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction attributable to SB, or the need for revascularization of the SB). RESULTS: We analyzed 679 SB lesions (662 patients). After a mean follow-up of 22.2±10.5 months, there were no significant differences between the 2 treatment groups regarding the percentage of death from cardiovascular causes (1.7% vs 0.4%; P=.14), nonfatal acute myocardial infarction (AMI) (1.7% vs 1.7%; P=.96), the need for SB revascularization (4.1% vs 5.4%; P=.45) or in the total percentage of events (5.1% vs 6.3%; P=.54). The variables showing an association with event occurrence on multivariate analysis were diabetes (SHR, 2.87; 95%CI, 1.37-5.47; P=.004), prior AMI (SHR, 3.54; 95%CI, 1.77-7.30; P<.0001), SB reference diameter (SHR, 0.16; 95%CI, 0.03-0.97; P=.047), and lesion length (SHR, 3.77; 95%CI, 1.03-1.13; P<.0001). These results remained the same after the propensity score analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The percentage of SB-related events during follow-up is low, with no significant differences between the 2 treatment strategies. The variables associated with event occurrence in the multivariate analysis were the presence of diabetes mellitus, prior AMI, and greater lesion length.

Intervención coronaria percutánea del tronco no protegido de la coronaria izquierda comparada con cirugía de revascularización coronaria; experiencia de 3 años en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología / Percutaneous coronary intervention of unprotected left main coronary compared with coronary artery bypass grafting; 3 years of experience in the National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico

Resumen Antecedentes: El mejor método para el tratamiento de la revascularización de la lesión del tronco no protegido de la coronaria izquierda es un tema de creciente interés. Método: Se realizaron un total de 2,439 intervenciones coronarias percutáneas (ICP) durante 3 años; se incluyeron los pacientes con lesión del tronco no protegido de la coronaria izquierda (TCI; n = 48) y se compararon con pacientes a los que se realizó cirugía de revascularización coronaria (CRVC; n = 50). Se analizaron los eventos cardiovasculares en fase hospitalaria y extrahospitalaria. El promedio de seguimiento fue de 16 meses. Resultados: El riesgo cardiovascular fue mayor en pacientes con ICP; log EuroSCORE (16 ± 21 vs. 5 ± 6, p = 0.001), Syntax clínico (77 ± 74 vs. 53 ± 39, p = 0.04). Los pacientes del grupo de ICP presentaron al ingreso con más frecuencia infarto con elevación del ST (IMCEST) y con choque cardiogénico. Los eventos hospitalarios fueron similares en ICP y CRVC (14% vs. 18%, p = 0.64). El IMCEST fue menos frecuente en el grupo de ICP (0% vs. 10%, p = 0.03. Los eventos cardiovasculares fueron menores en el grupo de ICP (2.3% vs. 18%, p = 0.01) y hubo una disminución de la muerte general y cardiaca (2.3% vs. 12%, p = 0.08 y 2.3% vs. 8%, p = 0.24), al excluir los pacientes con choque cardiogénico como presentación. En la fase extrahospitalaria los eventos fueron similares en ICP y CRVC (15% vs. 12%, p = 0.46). La supervivencia sin eventos cardiovasculares, muerte general y cardiaca fueron comparables entre los grupos (log rank, p = 0.38, p = 0.44 y p = 0.16). Conclusión: Pese a que los pacientes de ICP mostraron un perfil de riesgo mayor que los de CRVC, la seguridad y eficacia intrahospitalaria y extrahospitalaria fueron similares. © 2016 Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez. Publicado por Masson Doyma México S.A. Este es un artículo Open Access bajo la licencia CC BY-NC-ND (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Abstract Background: The best revascularisation method of the unprotected left main artery is a current and evolving topic. Methods: A total of 2439 percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) were registered during a 3-year period. The study included all the patients with PCI of the unprotected left main coronary (n = 48) and matched with patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) (n = 50). Major adverse cerebral and cardiac events (MACCE) were assessed within the hospital and in outpatients during a 16 month follow up. Results: The cardiovascular risk was greater in the PCI group; logEuroSCORE 16 ± 21 vs. 5 ± 6, P = .001; clinical Syntax 77 ± 74 vs 53 ± 39, P = .04. On admission, the PCI group of patients had a higher frequency of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and cardiogenic shock. The MACCE were similar in both groups (14% vs. 18%, P = .64). STEMI was less frequent in the PCI group (0% vs. 10%, P = .03). Cardiovascular events were lower in the PCI group (2.3% vs. 18%, P = .01), and there was a decrease in general and cardiac mortality (2.3% vs. 12%, P = .08 y 2.3% vs. 8%, P = .24), on excluding the patients with cardiogenic shock as a presentation. MACCE were similar in both groups in the out-patient phase (15% vs. 12%, P = .46). Survival without MACCE, general and cardiac death were comparable between groups (log rank, P = .38, P = .44 and P = .16, respectively). Conclusion: Even though the clinical and periprocedural risk profile of the PCI patients were higher, the in-hospital and out-hospital efficacy and safety were comparable with CABG. © 2016 Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez. Published by Masson Doyma México S.A. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Effect of calcifediol treatment on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndrome and percutaneous revascularization. / Efecto del tratamiento con calcifediol, sobre los episodios cardiovasculares en pacientes revascularizados tras síndrome coronario agudo.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Vitamin D deficiency has been consistently linked with cardiovascular diseases. However, results of intervention studies are contradictory. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of treatment with calcifediol (25(OH)D3) on the cardiovascular system of patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome after percutaneous coronary intervention. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A prospective study assessing≥60-year-old patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome, coronary artery disease and percutaneous revascularisation. We randomly assigned 41 patients (70.6±6.3 years) into 2 groups: Standard treatment+25(OH)D3 supplementation or standard treatment alone. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were evaluated at the conclusion of the 3-month follow-up period. 25(OH)D levels were analysed with regard to other relevant analytical variables and coronary disease extent. RESULTS: Basal levels of 25(OH)D≤50nmol/L were associated with multivessel coronary artery disease (RR: 2.6 [CI 95%:1.1-7.1], P=.027) and 25(OH)D≤50nmol/L+parathormone ≥65pg/mL levels correlated with increased risk for MACE (RR: 4 [CI 95%: 1.1-21.8], P=.04]. One MACE was detected in the supplemented group versus five in the control group (P=.66). Among patients with 25(OH)D levels≤50nmol/L at the end of the study, 28.6% had MACE versus 0% among patients with 25(OH)D>50nmol/L (RR: 1,4; P=.037). CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D deficiency plus secondary hyperparathyroidism may be an effective predictor of MACE. A trend throughout the follow up period towards a reduction in MACE among patients supplemented with 25(OH)D3 was detected. 25(OH)D levels≤50nmol/L at the end of the intervention period were significantly associated with an increased number of MACE, hence, 25(OH)D level normalisation could improve cardiovascular health in addition to bone health.

[Percutaneous coronary intervention of unprotected left main coronary compared with coronary artery bypass grafting; 3 years of experience in the National Institute of Cardiology, Mexico]. / Intervención coronaria percutánea del tronco no protegido de la coronaria izquierda comparada con cirugía de revascularización coronaria; experiencia de 3 años en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología.

BACKGROUND: The best revascularisation method of the unprotected left main artery is a current and evolving topic. METHODS: A total of 2439 percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) were registered during a 3-year period. The study included all the patients with PCI of the unprotected left main coronary (n=48) and matched with patients who underwent coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) (n=50). Major adverse cerebral and cardiac events (MACCE) were assessed within the hospital and in outpatients during a 16 month follow up. RESULTS: The cardiovascular risk was greater in the PCI group; logEuroSCORE 16±21 vs. 5±6, P=.001; clinical Syntax 77±74 vs 53±39, P=.04. On admission, the PCI group of patients had a higher frequency of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and cardiogenic shock. The MACCE were similar in both groups (14% vs. 18%, P=.64). STEMI was less frequent in the PCI group (0% vs. 10%, P=.03). Cardiovascular events were lower in the PCI group (2.3% vs. 18%, P=.01), and there was a decrease in general and cardiac mortality (2.3% vs. 12%, P=.08 y 2.3% vs. 8%, P=.24), on excluding the patients with cardiogenic shock as a presentation. MACCE were similar in both groups in the out-patient phase (15% vs. 12%, P=.46). Survival without MACCE, general and cardiac death were comparable between groups (log rank, P=.38, P=.44 and P=.16, respectively). CONCLUSION: Even though the clinical and peri-procedural risk profile of the PCI patients were higher, the in-hospital and out-hospital efficacy and safety were comparable with CABG.