Serial assessment of coronary artery healing of a biodegradable polymer drug-eluting stent at 1, 2, and 3 months by optical coherence tomography (OCT)­the REPAIR trial

BACKGROUND: Although first-generation drug-eluting stent (DES) devices have effectively achieved their main goal of reducing restenosis, their safety has been limited by suboptimal polymer biocompatibility, delayed stent endothelialization, and local drug toxicity, which ultimately prompted the development of new-generation DES options carrying biocompatible or even biodegradable polymers. Aims. We sought to assess the vessel-healing pattern of the novel sirolimus-eluting Inspiron DES (Scitech Medical) using serial optical coherence tomography (OCT) and assuming the hypothesis that this thin-strut (75-µm), biodegradable-polymer DES promotes a faster healing, with very early strut coverage. METHODS. This is a prospective, multicenter, open-label, single-arm study enrolling 68 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention guided by OCT. These patients were consecutively assigned into 3 groups. The first group had its OCT imaging follow-up performed at 3 months, the second group at 2 months, and the third group at 1 month. RESULTS: Mean age was 59.5 years, 70.6% were male, 41.2% had type 2 diabetes, and 29.4% presented with acute coronary syndrome. A total of 72 lesions were treated and 1.06 stents were implanted per patient. OCT assessment of the stents at 1, 2, and 3 months showed a strut coverage of 90.41%, 93.96%, and 97.21%, respectively (P=.04). CONCLUSION: The Inspiron DES showed an early strut healing pattern, with >90% of the struts covered by neointima within the first month and with almost all struts covered by the third month.

Independent clinical and echocardiographic predictors of restenosis after percutaneous mitral balloon commissurotomy followed for 24 years

BACKGROUND: Mitral valve stenosis (MVS) is one of the most common structural heart diseases in developing countries, primarily due to rheumatic disease. Percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMBV) has been, since its introduction in 1984, the preferred option of treatment for such disease. However, restenosis is presented with an approximate incidence of 20%. Echocardiographic scoring of the mitral apparatus has been the main tool used to indicate and foresee the possible result of the procedure. The objective of this study was to enlight risk factors of mitral valvular restenosis in a significant number of patients submitted to percutaneous mitral balloon commissurotomy for the treatment of mitral stenosis (MS), particularly when secondary to rheumatic heart disease. METHODS: This study reports the vast experience of a single center high volume tertiary institution where 1.794 consecutive patients were treated with PMBC between 1987 and 2011. The primary endpoint was to determine the independent predictors of this untoward event, defined as loss of over 50% of the original increase in maximum valve area (MVA) or MVA< 1.5 cm2. RESULTS: Mitral valve restenosis was observed in 26% of the cases (n=483). Mean population age was 36 years old, with most patients being female (87%). Mean follow up duration was 4.8 years. At multivariate analysis independent pre-procedural predictors of restenosis were: left atrial diameter (HR: 1.03, 95% ci: 1.01-1.04, p<0.01), pre procedure maximum gradient (HR: 1.01, 95% ci: 1.00-1.03, p=0.02) and higher wilkins scores (HR: 1.37, 95% ci: 1.13-1.66, p<0.01). CONCLUSION: In the very long term follow-up, mitral valve restenosis was observed in a quarter of the population undergoing PMBC. Preprocedure echocardiographic findings, including left atrial diameter, maximum valve gradient and high Wilkins scores were found to be the only independent predictors of this deleterious event.

2016 Left ventricular diastolic function guideline have better prognostic value than 2009 guideline in patients with acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Brazil and worldwide. In the context of diastolic dysfunction, echocardiography is the best non-invasive diagnostic method. However, the comparison of the two main guidelines for evaluate left ventricular diastolic function in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is scarce. OBJECTIVE: To compare the prognostic value of both guidelines of American Society of Echocardiography, from 2009 and 2016, in patients with ACS. METHODS: This is a sub-analysis of a prospective cohort observational study with 109 patients admitted to the emergency with ACS. The follow up was performed within 1 year and combined outcome was cardiovascular death or new heart failure. We used the non-parametric Spearman method to assess the correlation between the categories of diastolic function according to the guideline used. The Cox model and the Log rank test with Kaplan-Meier curves were used to compare the prognostic value of categorizing patients according to the guideline used. The results were expressed as hazard ratio with a confidence interval of 95%. RESULTS: The mean age was 63 years ± 11, most male patients (73.4%) and the predominant color of patients was white (60.4%). Among the main risk factors, the most frequent for coronary artery disease was dyslipidemia (78%), followed by systemic arterial hypertension (77.1%) and sedentary lifestyle (65.9%). The study identified a mean borderline ejection fraction, a high E/E' ratio, and LV diastolic and systolic volumes presented means above normal. The most common electrocardiographic change on admission was T-wave inversion (45%), and NSTEMI was the main clinical diagnosis (74%). The categories in which there was a greater disagreement between the guidelines were grade II diastolic dysfunction and normal function. The correlation between the diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction when compared to the use of the 2009 and 2016 guidelines was weak (R = 0.56 by Spearman's method; p<0.001). By the Kaplan-Meier curves, dividing the groups into with or without LA pressure elevation, the distinction between the evolution of the two groups is significant when performed by the 2016 guideline (Log Rank = 8.17; p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: The current guideline (2016) for the assessment of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction showed a higher prognostic value of combined outcome of cardiovascular death or new heart failure within one year, when compared to the guideline of 2009 in patients.

Left atrial minimum volume is better correlate of left atrial dysfunction by two-dimensional strain

BACKGROUND: The analysis of left atrial (LA) function can add important information to the understanding of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, to assess its functioning the use of volumetric measurements is adopted. The maximum LA volume is the most echocardiography parameter used, however, some studies demonstrated that minimum LA volume is better to correlate with atrial dysfunction. Purpose: The purpose of this study was compare the accuracy of the phasic volumes of the left atrium in determining LA dysfunction identified by the two-dimensional strain. METHODS: This observational, cross-sectional study admitted 109 participants with diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome non-ST-segment elevation. The exams were performed within 72 hours of admission. LA volume was defined by the mean of measurements performed in the four and two-chamber apical windows using Simpson's method. The phasic volumes of the left atrium were measured using an electrocardiogram synchronized with the device. Reservoir LA strain less than 21% was the cut off to LA dysfunction. RESULTS: The phasic LA volume variables analyzed were maximal (LAVMAX), minimal (LAVMIN) and before atrial contraction (LAVBAC) volume, and each variable indexed for body surface (LAVIMAX, LAVIMIN and LAVIBAC). Therefore, a Roc curve was generated for each volume variable to assess which would be more accurate in predicting left atrial dysfunction. The Youden index was used to determine the cutoff point for each one of them. The areas under the Roc curves were: 0.83 (LAVIMIN), 0.81 (LAVMIN), 0.78 (LAVBAC), 0.76 (LAVIMAX), 0.74 (LAVIBAC) and 0.71 (LAVMAX). CONCLUSION: This study concluded that phasic volumes were good determinants of left atrial dysfunction identified by 2D strain. The minimum left atrial volume was the better correlated with left atrial dysfunction.

Left atrial minimum volume is better correlate of left atrial dysfunction by two-dimensional strain

BACKGROUND: The analysis of left atrial (LA) function can add important information to the understanding of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, to assess its functioning the use of volumetric measurements is adopted. The maximum LA volume is the most echocardiography parameter used, however some studies demonstrated that minimum LA volume is better to correlate with atrial dysfunction. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was compare the accuracy of the phasic volumes of the left atrium in determining LA dysfunction identified by the two-dimensional strain. METHODS: This observational, cross-sectional study admitted 109 participants with diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome non-ST-segment elevation. The exams were performed within 72 hours of admission. LA volume was defined by the mean of measurements performed in the four and two-chamber apical windows using Simpson's method. The phasic volumes of the left atrium were measured using an electrocardiogram synchronized with the device. Reservoir LA strain less than 21% was the cut off to LA dysfunction. RESULTS: The phasic LA volume variables analyzed were maximal (LAVMAX), minimal (LAVMIN) and before atrial contraction (LAVBAC) volume, and each variable indexed for body surface (LAVIMAX, LAVIMIN and LAVIBAC). Therefore, a Roc curve was generated for each volume variable to assess which would be more accurate in predicting left atrial dysfunction. The Youden index was used to determine the cutoff point for each one of them. The areas under the Roc curves were: 0.83 (LAVIMIN), 0.81 (LAVMIN), 0.78 (LAVBAC), 0.76 (LAVIMAX), 0.74 (LAVIBAC) and 0.71 (LAVMAX). CONCLUSION: This study concluded that phasic volumes were good determinants of left atrial dysfunction identified by 2D strain. The minimum left atrial volume was the better correlate with left atrial dysfunction.

Mid- to long-term clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement with a newgeneration, self-expandable system / Desfechos clínicos e ecocardiográficos de médio a longo prazo após a substituição da válvula aórtica transcateter com uma nova geração, sistema auto-expansível

Abstract Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate mid- to late clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with A curate neo™ (Boston Scientific, Boston, MA). Background: TAVR is an established treatment for aortic stenosis (AS). Few data exist on mid- to long-term outcomes and durability after new-generation valves. Methods: All consecutive patients (n = 104) who underwent A curate neo™ implantation from 2012 to 2018 were included. Follow-up was systematically performed at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months and yearly thereafter. Outcomes were reported according to VARC-2, and structural valve deterioration (SVD) or bioprosthetic valve failure defined accordingly to new definitions. Results: Mean age was 82 ± 5.4 years, 56.7% were female and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons score for mortality was 5.9 ± 4%. Patients were followed for a median of 3 years (1,092 days; IQR 1.5­4 years), and the maximum follow-up was 7 years. All-cause mortality values at 1 and 5 years were 8.5% and 40.5%, respectively. No relevant changes in mean gradient and orifice area occurred (7.9 ± 3.8 mmHg and 1.9 ± 0.3 cm2 at 1 year; 6.6 ± 2.1 mmHg and 1.8 ± 0.3 cm2 at 5 years), and there was a significant rate of paravalvular leaks resolution at 1, 2, and 3 years (p = .004; p < .001; p < .001, respectively). None of the patients had leaflet thrombosis or endocarditis. One patient developed SVD at 84 months. Conclusions: A curate neo™ was associated with sustained echocardiographic results. Reassuring mid- to long-term outcomes was observed in this cohort of elderly patients with severe AS.

Association between left atrial strain and left ventricular diastolic function in patients with acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND: Left ventricular diastolic function is an important prognostic marker in acute coronary syndrome. However, classification of the dysfunction grade using isolated echocardiographic parameters remains difficult. Therefore, it is necessary to combine multiple data in diagnostic algorithms. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the capacity of left atrial strain (LAS) components to classify left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (DD) grade. METHODS: Cross-sectional speckle-tracking echocardiography. Patients were divided according to the diastolic dysfunction grade for later association with the LAS. RESULTS: The three LAS components showed moderate correlation with most diastolic variables(left atrial volume index, E/e' ratio and e' wave). In addition, there was related reduction of the LAS, which was inversely proportional to the DD grade (p < 0.05). LAS was effective for the identification of patients with DD grade III [area under the curve (AUC) for the reservoir = 0.99; conduit AUC = 0.89; contraction AUC = 0.99) and also those with DD grade II or III (reservoir AUC = 0.94; conduit AUC = 0.92; contraction AUC = 0.80]. CONCLUSIONS: LAS alone presented excellent capacity to classify DD in patients with acute coronary syndrome and may represent an additional tool for this purpose. (AU)

Association between left atrial strain and left ventricular diastolic function in patients with acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND: Left ventricular diastolic function is an important prognostic marker in acute coronary syndrome. However, classifcation of the dysfunction grade using isolated echocardiographic parameters remains difcult. Therefore, it is necessary to combine multiple data in diagnostic algorithms. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the capacity of left atrial strain (LAS) components to classify left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (DD) grade. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 109 consecutive patients admitted to the emergency room with acute coronary syndrome. Patients were referred for echocardiographic evaluation within 72 h. Mean values of LAS, corresponding to three phases of atrial function (reservoir, conduit and contraction), were obtained by speckle-tracking echocardiography. Patients were divided according to the diastolic dysfunction grade for later association with the LAS. RESULTS: The three LAS components showed moderate correlation with most diastolic variables (left atrial volume index, E/e' ratio and e' wave). In addition, there was related reduction of the LAS, which was inversely proportional to the DD grade (p< 0.05). LAS was efective for the identifcation of patients with DD grade III [area under the curve (AUC) for the reservoir=0.99; conduit AUC=0.89; contraction AUC=0.99) and also those with DD grade II or III (reservoir AUC=0.94; conduit AUC=0.92; contraction AUC=0.80]. CONCLUSIONS: LAS alone presented excellent capacity to classify DD in patients with acute coronary syndrome and may represent an additional tool for this purpose.

Predição de nefropatia induzida pelo contraste após revascularização coronária percutânea: precisamos de fórmulas? - Uma perspetiva da cardiologia / Predicting contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention: Do we need formulas? A cardiological perspective

A nefropatia induzida pelo contraste (NIC) tem figurado como um diagnóstico cada vez mais frequente no campo da cardiologia intervencionista. Tal fato deve-se ao aumento progressivo no uso de meios de contraste iodados em procedimentos diagnósticos e terapêuticos cardiovasculares, à abordagem de pacientes portadores de múltiplas comorbidades, além de cenários clínicos e angiográficos cada vez mais complexos que requerem procedimentos prolongados ou estagiados.Estima-se que a NIC seja a terceira causa de incidência de insuficiência renal (IR) em pacientes internados, contribui com 11-12% de todos os casos de IR aguda. Segundo alguns estudos, pode atingir percentuais de 25-30% em indivíduos idosos, particularmente se portadores de diabetes mellitus(DM), síndrome coronária aguda (SCA) com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST, disfunção ventricular esquerda e doença renal crónica (DRC). Um subgrupo especial de alto risco para desenvolvimento de NIC inclui aqueles que apresentam DM e doença renal crónica concomitante.

Prospective comparison between three TAVR devices: ACURATE neo vs. CoreValve vs. SAPIEN XT. A single heart team experience in patients with severe aortic stenosis

OBJECTIVE: We sought to compare the new transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) device ACURATE neo (ACT) with the already established CoreValve (MCV) and SAPIEN XT (SXT) for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis (AS). BACKGROUND: Very few data on TAVR devices are available beyond MCV and SAPIEN and there is no previous study comparing ACT with MCV and SXT. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR for the treatment of severe AS. Clinical outcomes were reported following Valve Academic Research Consortium 2 (VARC-2) criteria.RESULTS:A total of 162 patients (ACT n = 49, MCV n = 56, SXT n = 57), were included. MCV group had higher valve embolization/migration rates (ACT none; MCV 9%; SXT 2%; P = 0.034) causing lower device success rates (ACT 98%; MCV 86%; SXT 95%; P = 0.043). At 30 days, there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality (P = 0.22), cardiovascular mortality (P = 0.20), periprocedural myocardial infarction (P = 0.40), stroke (P = 0.64), major vascular complications (P = 0.48), life-threatening bleeding (P = 0.29), acute kidney injury stage 2/3 (P = 0.69), or VARC-2 composite early safety endpoints (P = 0.21). MCV group had higher rates of new permanent pacemaker implantation (ACT 6%; MCV 25%; SXT 11%; P = 0.013). Follow-up echocardiography showed no significant difference in aortic valve mean pressure gradient (P = 0.73) or moderate/severe aortic regurgitation (P = 0.19) between groups...

Fatores predisponentes para revascularização angiográfica incompleta em pacientes com intervenção coronária percutânea de múltiplos vasos / Predisposing factors for incomplete angiographic revascularization in patients with multivessel percutaneous coronary intervention

A revascularização miocárdica anatômica completa está associada a um melhor controle dossintomas anginosos e a menores índices de eventos cardíacos maiores tardios. No entanto, em substancial número de pacientes tratados por meio de intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP), não logramos sua obtenção. Assim, nosso objetivo foi avaliar os fatores associados à revascularização miocárdica incompleta (RMI) em casos de ICP multiarterial. Métodos: Estudo de coorte envolvendo 1.049 pacientes revascularizados de forma prospectiva e consecutivapor meio de ICP com tratamento de dois ou mais vasos, entre 2012 e 2014, divididos em dois grupos: RMI(n = 324; 30,9%) e revascularização miocárdica completa (n = 725; 69,1%).Resultados: A RMI foi significativamente associada a faixa etária maior (66,5 anos vs. 64,1 anos; p = 0,003),hipertensão arterial (92,2% vs. 86,0%; p = 0,006), insuficiência renal crônica (36.4% vs. 26.0%; p < 0,001), síndrome coronariana aguda (26,3% vs. 21,0%; p = 0,05), revascularização cirúrgica prévia (16,1% vs. 7,1%;p = 0,001), lesões em enxertos venosos (3,4% vs. 1,0%; p < 0,001) e oclusões crônicas (3,3% vs. 1,4%; p =0,005), bem como a menor acesso a stents farmacológicos (57,8% vs. 64,8%; p = 0,002). Os resultados clínicos hospitalares não diferiram entre os grupos.Conclusões: A RMI ocorreu em cerca de um terço dos casos tratados, tendo sido observada associação significativa, com um perfil clínico de maior risco e com intervenções em lesões alvo comumente associadas com menor sucesso do procedimento. O grau de revascularização não gerou impacto nosresultados clínicos da fase hospitalar...

Complete anatomical myocardial revascularization is associated with better anginacontrol and lower rates of cardiac events. However, in a significant number of patients treated bypercutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), complete revascularization is not achieved. Thus, the aimof this study was to evaluate factors associated with incomplete myocardial revascularization (IMR) in multivessel PCI patients. Methods: This was a cohort study involving 1,049 prospectively and consecutively revascularized patients through PCI with treatment of two or more vessels, between 2012 and 2014, divided into two groups: IMR(n = 324; 30.9%) and complete myocardial revascularization (n = 725; 69.1%). Results: IMR was significantly associated with older age (66.5 years vs. 64.1 years; p = 0.003), arterial hypertension (92.2% vs. 86.0%; p = 0.006), chronic renal failure (36.4 % vs. 26.0%; p < 0.001), acute coronary syndrome (26.3% vs. 21.0%; p = 0.05), previous surgical revascularization (16.1% vs. 7.1 %; p = 0.001), saphenous venous graft lesions (3.4% vs. 1.0%, p < 0.001), and chronic occlusions (3.3% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.005), as well as lower access to drug-eluting stents (57.8% vs. 64.8%; p = 0.002). In-hospital clinical outcomes did not differ between the groups. Conclusions: IMR occurred in approximately one-third of treated cases, and a significant association was observed with a higher-risk clinical profile and with target lesion interventions commonly associated with lower procedure success. The degree of revascularization had no impact on in-hospital clinical outcomes...

Desfechos de curto e médio prazos de pacientes com e sem disfunção ventricular esquerda submetidos ao implante transcateter de prótese valvar aórtica / Short and medium-term outcomes of patients with and without left ventricular dysfunction submitted to transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Introdução: A utilização crescente do implante transcateter de prótese valvar aórtica (TAVI) em pacientes de alto risco, em especial naqueles com disfunção ventricular, justifica uma avaliação mais profunda da seleção e dos resultados do procedimento. Utilizamos nosso banco de dados para caracterizar o perfil dos pacientes e avaliar os resultados do TAVI de acordo com o grau de disfunção ventricular.Métodos: Estudo observacional longitudinal no qual foram incluídos todos os pacientes com estenose aórtica (EAo) grave, submetidos ao TAVI entre 2009 e 2014, e comparados àqueles com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) ≤ 40% vs. > 40%. Foram avaliados os desfechos de segurança e eficácia em 30dias e 1 ano. Resultados: Dentre os 172 pacientes, 20 (11,6%) apresentavam FEVE ≤ 40%. Esses pacientes eram mais jovens, com maior prevalência de tabagismo, infarto agudo do miocárdio prévio, cirurgia de revascularizaçãomiocárdica, marca-passo definitivo e hipertensão arterial pulmonar. Também se observou, nesse grupo, maior frequência de classes funcionais mais elevadas. O grupo com FEVE ≤ 40% apresentou menor gradiente valvar aórtico médio para área valvar equivalente. As taxas de sucesso do procedimento não diferiram entre os grupos. Não foram observadas diferenças na mortalidade, nos eventos coronarianos, cerebrovasculares, sangramentos, complicações vasculares e disfunção renal aguda no acompanhamento de 30 dias e 1 ano. No grupo FEVE ≤ 40%, a média da FEVE elevou-se de 31,5 para 45,1% 1 ano após o procedimento (p = 0,002).Conclusões: O TAVI em pacientes com EAo grave e FEVE ≤ 40% não aumenta o risco de complicações e estáassociado à melhora da FEVE.

Background: The increasing use of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in high-risk patients, especially those with ventricular dysfunction, justifies further evaluation of the selection and the results of the procedure. A database was used to characterize the profile of patients and evaluate TAVI results according to the degree of ventricular dysfunction.Methods: This was a longitudinal observational study that included all patients with severe aortic stenosis(AoS) submitted to TAVI between 2009 and 2014, comparing those with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% vs. > 40%. The safety and efficacy outcomes were evaluated at 30 days and 1 year. Results: Of the 172 patients, 20 (11.6%) had LVEF ≤ 40%. These patients were younger, with a higherprevalence of smoking, previous acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, permanent pacemaker, and pulmonary artery hypertension. Higher functional classes were also more often observed in this group. The group with LVEF ≤ 40% had lower mean aortic valve gradient for anequivalent valve area. The procedure success did not differ between groups. There were no differences in mortality in coronary and cerebrovascular events, bleeding, vascular complications, and acute renal failure in the 30 day and 1 year follow-up. In the LVEF ≤ 40% group, the mean LVEF increased from 31.5 to 45.1% 1 year after the procedure (p = 0.002). Conclusions: TAVI in patients with severe AoS and LVEF ≤ 40% does not increase the risk of complications and is associated with LVEF improvement.

Denervação simpática renal em pacientes com cardiodesfibrilador implantável e tempestade elétrica / Renal sympathetic denervation in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator and electrical storm

Introdução: Cardiodesfibriladores implantáveis (CDIs) são geralmente indicados para pacientes com arritmias malignas considerados de alto risco. A hiperatividade simpática desempenha um papel crítico no desenvolvimento, na manutenção e no agravamento de arritmias ventriculares. Novas opçõesde tratamento nessa população representam uma necessidade clínica. Nosso objetivo foi relatar osresultados de pacientes com CDIs e tempestade elétrica submetidos à denervação simpática renal paracontrole da arritmia. Métodos: Oito pacientes com CDIs internados por tempestade elétrica refratária ao tratamento médico otimizado foram submetidos à denervação simpática renal. Condições subjacentes foram: doença de Chagas (n = 6), cardiomiopatia dilatada não isquêmica (n = 1) e cardiomiopatia isquêmica (n = 1). As informações sobre o número de taquicardias ventriculares/fibrilações ventriculares e episódios de terapiasantitaquicardia na última semana pré-procedimento e nos 30 dias pós-tratamento foram obtidas por meiode interrogação dos CDIs. Resultados: As medianas dos episódios de taquicardias ventriculares/fibrilações ventriculares, sobreestimulaçãoe choques na semana que antecedeu a denervação simpática renal foram de 29 (9 a 106), 23 (2 a 94) e 7,5 (1 a 88), sendo significativamente reduzidas para 0 (0 a 12), 0 (0 a 30) e 0 (0 a 1), respectivamente, 1 mês após o procedimento (p = 0,002; p = 0,01; p = 0,003). Nenhum paciente morreu durante o acompanhamento. Não ocorreram complicações maiores relacionadas ao procedimento.Conclusões: Em pacientes com CDIs e tempestade elétrica refratária ao tratamento médico otimizado, a denervação simpática renal reduziu significativamente a carga de arritmia e, consequentemente, as sobre-estimulações e os choques. Ensaios clínicos randomizados, no contexto de denervação simpática renal para controle de arritmias cardíacas refratárias, são necessários para trazer maior robustez aos nossos achados.

Background: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are usually indicated for patients with malignant arrhythmias considered as high risk. Sympathetic hyperactivity plays a critical role in thedevelopment, maintenance, and worsening of ventricular arrhythmias. New treatment options in thispopulation represent a clinical necessity. This study’s objective was to report the outcomes of patients with ICDs and electrical storm submitted to renal sympathetic denervation for arrhythmia control. Methods: Eight patients with ICDs admitted for electrical storm refractory to optimal medical therapy underwent renal sympathetic denervation. Underlying diseases included Chagas disease (n = 6), non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 1), and ischemic cardiomyopathy (n = 1).Information on the number of episodes of ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation and antitachycardia therapies in the week before the procedure and 30 days after treatment were obtained through interrogation of the ICDs.Results: The median numbers of episodes of ventricular achycardia/ ventricular fibrillation,antitachycardia pacing, and shocks in the week before renal sympathetic denervation were 29 (9 to 106), 23 (2 to 94), and 7.5 (1 to 88), and significantly reduced to 0 (0 to 12), 0 (0 to 30), and 0 (0 to 1), respectively, 1 month after the procedure (p = 0.002; p = 0.01; p = 0.003, respectively). No patients diedduring follow-up. There were no major complications related to the procedure.Conclusions: In patients with ICDs and electrical storm refractory to optimal medical treatment, renal sympathetic denervation significantly reduced arrhythmia load and, consequently, antitachycardia pacing and shocks. Randomized clinical trials in the context of renal sympathetic denervation tocontrol refractory cardiac arrhythmias are needed to further support these findings.

Resposta vascular após implante de stents liberadores de biolimus A9 compolímero bioabsorvível e stents liberadores de everolimus com polímero durável. Resultados da análise de tomografia de coerência óptica do estudo randomizado BIOACTIVE / Vascular response after implantation of biolimus A9-eluting stent with bioabsorbable polymer and everolimus-eluting stents with durable polymer. Results of the optical coherence tomography analysis of the BIOACTIVE randomized trial

No estudo BIOACTIVE, avaliamos as respostas vasculares após implante do stent eluidor de biolimus A9 (SEB; BioMatrix®) e o stent eluidor de everolimus (SEE; XIENCE V®). Apresentamos a análise detomografia de coerência óptica (OCT) 6 meses pós-intervenção. Métodos: Os pacientes foram randomizados para tratamento com SEB (n = 22) ou SEE (n = 18). O desfecho primário foi a frequência de hastes não cobertas e mal apostas pela OCT. Resultados: A OCT foi realizada em 26 pacientes (SEB: n = 15; SEE: n = 11) e foram analisadas 749 imagens tomográficas e 7.725 hastes de stent. SEB e SEE apresentaram áreas luminais e dos stents semelhantes.A área de hiperplasia neointimal, a espessura neointimal e o porcentual de obstrução intra-stent (8,44 ± 5,10% vs. 9,21 ± 6,36%; p = 0,74) foram similares. As taxas de hastes não cobertas (SEB: 2,10 ± 3,60% vs. SEE: 2,46 ± 2,15%; p = 0,77) e mal apostas (SEB: 0,48 ± 1,48% vs. SEE 0,44 ± 1,05%; p = 0,94) foram baixas e semelhantes. A frequência de frames com sinais compatíveis com infiltrado inflamatório peri-haste foi baixa e similar entre SEB (15,53 ± 20,77%) e SEE (11,70 ± 27,51%; p = 0,68).Conclusões: Stents farmacológicos de segunda geração SEB e SEE se mostraram igualmente eficientes emsuprimir a formação neointimal aos 6 meses, com respostas vasculares favoráveis. A frequência de framescom sinais de infiltrado peri-haste por paciente foi baixa, e menor do que a historicamente observada comos stents farmacológicos de primeira geração...

In BIOACTIVE study, we evaluated vascular responses after the implant of biolimus A9-eluting stent (BES; BioMatrixTM) and the everolimus-eluting stent (EES; XIENCE VTM). In this study, we present the optical coherence tomography analysis (OCT) 6 months post-intervention. Methods: Patients were randomized to treatment with BES (n = 22) or EES (n = 18). The primary outcome was the frequency of non-covered, poorly positioned struts by OCT.Results: OCT was performed in 26 patients (BES: n = 15; EES: n = 11) and 749 tomographic images and 7,725stent struts were analyzed. BES and EES showed similar luminal and stent areas. Neointimal hyperplasia area, neointimal thickness and the percentage of in-stent obstruction (8.44 ± 5.10% vs. 9.21 ± 6.36%; p = 0.74) were similar. The rates of not covered struts (BES: 2.10 ± 3.60% vs. ESS: 2.46 ± 2.15%, p = 0.77) and poorly positioned struts (BES: 0.48 ± 1.48% vs. EES 0.44 ± 1.05%, p = 0.94) were similarly low. The frequency of frames with signs consistent with peri-strut inflammatory infiltrate was low and similar between BES (15.53 ± 20.77%) and EES (11.70 ± 27.51%; p = 0.68). Conclusions: The second-generation drug-eluting stents BES and EES were equally effective at suppressing the neointimal formation after 6 months, with favorable vascular responses. The frequency of frameswith peri-strut infiltrate signals per patient was low, and lower than that observed historically with firstgenerationdrug-eluting stents...

Seguimento de 12 meses de pacientes complexos tratados com stentsfarmacológicos liberadores de everolimus XIENCE V® na prática diária – resultados do registro brasileiro BRAVO / Twelve-month follow-up of complex patients treated with the Xience V™ everolimus drug-eluting stents in daily practice – results of the BRAVO Brazilian Registry

O stent liberador de everolimus XIENCE V® é um stent farmacológico de nova geração que incorpora uma plataforma de cromo-cobalto de baixo perfil (81 m) e um polímero de elevada biocompatibilidade (fluoropolímero), o qual carreia e controla a liberação do fármaco everolimus. Estudos recentes demonstram segurança e eficácia sustentadas do dispositivo XIENCE V® no tratamento de populações da prática clínica. Nosso objetivo foi reportar resultados clínicos de 12 meses do protocolo brasileiro BRAVO. Métodos: O registro BRAVO foi um estudo prospectivo, não randomizado, de braço único, multicêntrico (25centros), que avaliou os resultados clínicos tardios de 535 pacientes minimamente selecionados, tratados com o stent farmacológico XIENCE V®.Resultados: Cerca de 40% dos pacientes tinham diabetes, 25% infarto agudo do miocárdio prévio e 42% apresentaram-se com síndrome coronária aguda. A maioria das lesões (69%) era de elevada complexidade(ACC/AHA tipo B2/C). As médias da extensão e do diâmetro nominais dos stents foram, respectivamente, 19,9 ± 5,3 mm e 3,0 ± 0,4 mm. Os sucessos angiográfico e de procedimento foram de 99,7 e 98%, respectivamente. Aos 12 meses, a taxa cumulativa de eventos cardíacos adversos maiores, disponível em 100% dos pacientes, foi de 5,6% (morte cardíaca: 1,3%; infarto agudo do miocárdio: 3,0%; revascularização da lesão-alvo: 2,2%). Já a trombose de stent ocorreu em cinco pacientes (0,9%), sendo reportada apenas uma ocorrência entre 6 e 12 meses. Conclusões: O stent farmacológico XIENCE V® demonstrou segurança e eficácia sustentadas ao final de 12meses no tratamento de lesões coronárias complexas em pacientes da prática diária...

The Xience VTM everolimus-eluting stents is a new generation drug-eluting stent (DES)that incorporates a low profile cobalt-chromium platform (81 m) and a highly biocompatible polymer(fluoropolymer), which carries and controls the release of everolimus. Recent studies have demonstrated sustained safety and efficacy of the Xience VTM in the treatment of real-world populations. Our aim was to report the clinical results of 12 months of the BRAVO Brazilian protocol. Methods: The BRAVO Registry was a prospective, non-randomized, single-arm, multicenter (25 centers) study that evaluated the late clinical results of 535 minimally selected patients treated with the drug eluting stent Xience VTM in Brazilian daily practice. Results: Overall, 40% of patients had diabetes, 25% prior myocardial infarction, and 42% presented with acute coronary artery syndrome. The majority of lesions (69%) was highly complex (ACC/AHA type B2 or C).The mean length and the nominal stent diameter were 19.9 ± 5.3 mm and 3.0 ± 0.4 mm, respectively.The angiographic and procedural successes were 99.7 and 98%, respectively. At 12 months, the cumulative rate of major adverse cardiac events, available in 100% of patients, was 5.6% (cardiac death: 1.3%; acute myocardial infarction: 3.0%; revascularization of the target lesion: 2.2%). Stent thrombosis occurred in 5 patients (0,9%), and only 1 case was reported between 6 and 12 months. Conclusions: The drug-eluting stent Xience V™ demonstrated sustained safety and efficacy up to 12 months in the treatment of complex coronary lesions in patients from daily practice...

Desfechos clínicos tardios de pacientes diabéticos tratados com stents farmacológicos eluidores de sirolimus ou everolimus: uma análise do registro DESIRE / Late clinical outcomes of diabetic patients treated with sirolimus or everolimus drug-eluting stents: an analysis of the DESIRE registry

Stents farmacológicos (SF) de segunda geração demonstraram melhor desempenho clínico que os de primeira geração, sobretudo pela redução nas taxas de trombose, mas ainda não está claro se esse benefício se estende a diabéticos da prática diária. Objetivamos comparar o desempenho de pacientes diabéticos não selecionados tratados com SF eluidores de sirolimus (SES; primeira geração) vs. SF eluidoresde everolimus (SEE; segunda geração).Métodos: Entre 2007 e 2014, 798 diabéticos foram tratados com SES (n = 414) ou SEE (n = 384) e incluídosnesta análise. Seguimento clínico tardio foi obtido em 99,4% da população e os grupos foram comparados quanto à ocorrência de eventos cardíacos adversos maiores (ECAM) e trombose de stent. Resultados: A idade da população foi semelhante, com predomínio do sexo masculino. Em ambas as coortes, a apresentação clínica mais frequente foi a doença coronária estável. Número de vasos tratados (1,50 ± 0,62 vs. 1,52 ± 0,72; p = 0,88) e extensão total de stents (36,1 ± 20,4 mm vs. 37,7 ± 22,2 mm; p = 0,32) foram semelhantes. Os pacientes tratados com SEE apresentaram menores taxas de ECAM (15% vs. 6,8%; p < 0,001), sobretudo à custa de menor mortalidade cardíaca (5,3% vs. 1,3%; p < 0,001). Observou-se também menor ocorrência de trombose de stent definitiva/provável com SF de segunda geração (3,4% vs. 0,5%; p = 0,004).Conclusões: Nesta experiência unicêntrica, o uso de SEE em diabéticos mostrou-se com menor mortalidadecardíaca e trombose da endoprótese. Esse benefício se fez mais evidente no seguimento mais tardio...

Despite the better clinical performance of second-generation drug-eluting stents (DES)when compared to first-generation DES in controlled trials, mainly due to reduction in thrombosis rate, it remains unclear whether this benefit extends to diabetic patients treated in the daily practice. We sought to compare the clinical outcomes of unselected diabetic patients treated with either sirolimus eluting stents - SES (first-generation DES) or everolimus-eluting stents - EES (second-generation DES). Methods: Between January 2007 and October 2014 a total of 798 diabetic patients were treated with SES(n = 414) and EES (n = 384). Long-term clinical follow-up was achieved in 99,4% of the population andthe groups were compared regarding the occurrence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and stent thrombosis. Results: In both cohorts age was similar, and most patients were male. Stable coronary disease was the most frequent clinical presentation. The number of treated vessels (1.50 ± 0.62 vs. 1.52 ± 0.72; p = 0.88)and the total stent length (36.1 ± 20.4 vs. 37.7 ± 22.2 mm; p = 0.32) were similar between groups. Patients treated with EES showed lower rates of MACE (15% vs. 6.8%, p < 0.001), mainly due to a lower cardiac death(5.3% vs. 1.3%, p < 0.001). There was also less definitive/ probable thrombosis with the second generation DES (3.4% vs. 0.5%, p = 0.004)...

6 Month Outcomes in Patients WithImplantable Cardioverter-DefibrillatorsUndergoing Renal SympatheticDenervation for the Treatment ofRefractory Ventricular Arrhythmias

This study aimed to assess 6-month outcomes in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators(ICDs) undergoing renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) for refractory ventricular arrhythmias (VAs).BACKGROUND ICDs are generally indicated for patients at high risk of malignant VAs. Sympathetic hyperactivityplays a critical role in the development, maintenance, and aggravation of VAs.METHODS A total of 10 patients with refractory VA underwent RSD. Underlying conditions were Chagas disease (n » 6),nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (n » 2), and ischemic cardiomyopathy (n » 2). Information on the number ofventricular tachycardia (VT)/ventricular fibrillation (VF) episodes and device therapies (antitachycardia pacing/shocks) inthe previous 6 months as well as 1 and 6 months post-treatment was obtained from ICD interrogation.RESULTS The median number of VT/VF episodes/antitachycardia pacing/shocks 6 months before RSD was 28.5 (range1 to 106)/20.5 (range 0 to 52)/8 (range 0 to 88), respectively, and was reduced to 1 (range 0 to 17)/0 (range 0 to 7)/0 (range 0 to 3) at 1 month and 0 (range 0 to 9)/0 (range 0 to 7)/0 (range 0 to 3) at 6 months afterward, respectively.There were no major procedure-related complications. Two patients experienced sustained VT within the first week; inboth cases, no further episodes occurred during follow-up. Two patients were nonresponders: 1 with persistent idioventricularrhythm and 1 with multiple renal arteries and incomplete ablation. Three patients died during follow-up. Noneof the deaths was attributed to VA.CONCLUSIONS In patients with ICDs and refractory VAs, RSD was associated with reduced arrhythmic burden withno procedure-related complications. Randomized controlled trials investigating RSD for treatment of refractory VAs inpatients with increased sympathetic activity are needed.

Early Improvement in Left Atrial Remodeling and / Function after Mitral Valve Repair or Replacement in / Organic Symptomatic Mitral Regurgitation Assessed / by Three-Dimensional Echocardiography

Left atrial (LA) dilation is associated with worse prognosis in various clinical situationsincluding chronic mitral regurgitation (MR). Real time three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) hasallowed a better assessment of LA volumes and function. Little is known about LA size and function inearly postoperative period in symptomatic patients with chronic organic MR. We aimed to investigatethese aspects. Methods: By means of 3DE, 43 patients with symptomatic chronic organic MR were prospectivelystudied before and 30 days after surgery (repair or bioprosthetic valve replacement). Twentysubjects were studied as controls. Maximum (Vol-max), minimum, and preatrial contraction LA volumeswere measured and total, passive, and active LA emptying fractions were calculated. Results: Before surgerypatients had higher LA volumes (P < 0.001) but smaller LA emptying fractions than controls(P < 0.01). After surgery there was a reduction in all 3 LA volumes and an increase in active atrial emptyingfraction (AAEF). Multivariate analysis showed that independent predictors of early postoperativeVol-max reduction were preoperative diastolic blood pressure (coefficient = 0.004; P = 0.02), lateralmitral annular early diastolic velocity (e0) (coefficient = 0.023; P = 0.008), and the mean transmitral diastolicgradient increment (coefficient = 0.035; P < 0.001). Furthermore, e0 was also independentlyassociated with AAEF increase (odds ratio = 1.66, P = 0.027). Conclusion: Early LA reverse remodelingand functional improvement occur after successful surgery of symptomatic organic MR regardless ofsurgical technique. Diastolic blood pressure and transmitral mean gradient augmentation are variablesnegatively related to Vol-max reduction. Besides, e0 is positively correlated with both Vol-max reductionand AAEF increase.

Relação Balão/Artéria e Volume de Obstrução Neontimal Após Implante de Stent Eluidor de Zotarolimus / Balloon/Artery Ratio and Neointimal Hyperplasia Volume Obstruction After Zotarolimus-Eluting Stent Implantation

Introdução: O volume de hiperplasia intimal correlaciona-se com a injúria arterial após implante de stents não farmacológicos. No entanto, pouco se sabe a respeito do impacto da injúria arterial na resposta inflamatória/proliferativa com os stents farmacológicos. Investigamos o impacto da injúria arterial, avaliada pela relação balão/artéria, no volume de obstrução neontimal, avaliado pelo ultrassom intracoronário 12 meses após o implante de stents farmacológicos com eluição de zotarolimus. Métodos: A relação balão/artéria foi definida como a razão do diâmetro máximo do balão, obtido no implante ou na pós-dilatação, e o diâmetro de referência do vaso pré-procedimento. Os pacientes foram categorizados em dois grupos: relação balão/artéria alta (≥ 1,15) e relação balão/artéria baixa (< 1,15). Resultados: Foram incluídos 86 pacientes, nos grupos relação balão/artéria baixa (n = 47/48 lesões) ou relação balão/artéria alta (n = 39/48 lesões). As características clínicas, angiográficas e do procedimento não diferiram entre os grupos, à exceção do diâmetro de referência dos vasos (2,73 ± 0,45 mm vs. 2,97 ± 0,40 mm; p = 0,01). Aos 12 meses, observou-se semelhante perda tardia intra-stent (0,59 ± 0,32 mm vs. 0,62 ± ...

Background: Intimal hyperplasia volume is correlated to arterial injury after bare-metal stenting. However, little is known about the impact of arterial injury on the inflammatory/ proliferative response with drug-eluting stents. We investigated the impact of arterial injury, evaluated by the balloon/artery ratio, on neointimal hyperplasia volume obstruction, evaluated by intravascular ultrasound, 12 months after zotarolimus-eluting stent implantation. Methods: Balloon/ artery ratio was defined as the ratio of the maximum balloon diameter, using the maximal implantation or post-dilatation pressure, and the reference diameter of the vessel obtained before the procedure. Patients were divided into two groups: high balloon/artery ratio (≥ 1.15) and low balloon/artery ratio (< 1.15). Results: A total of 86 patients were included in the low balloon/artery ratio group (n = 47/48 lesions) or high balloon/artery ratio (n = 39/48 lesions). The clinical, angiographic and procedurerelated characteristics were not different between groups, except for the vessel reference diameter (2.73 ± 0.45 mm vs. 2.97 ± 0.40 mm; p = 0.01). At 12 months, similar in-stent late loss was observed (0.59 ± 0.32 mm vs. 0.62 ± 0.42 mm; p = 0.92), as well as binary restenosis (4.2% in both cohorts; p > 0.99). Instent neointimal hyperplasia volume obstruction (15.2 ± 14.3% vs. 12.5 ± 10.1%; p = 0.62) showed no difference between groups. No correlation was observed between balloon/artery ratio ...

Impacto da Curva de Aprendizado na Seleção de Pacientes e nos Resultados Clínicos do Implante por Cateter de Prótese Aórtica / Impact of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Learning Curve on Patient Selection and Clinical Outcomes

Introdução: O implante por cateter de prótese aórtica (TAVI, do inglês transcatheter aortic valve implantation) constitui tratamento alternativo para pacientes com estenose aórtica de alto risco cirúrgico ou inoperáveis. Para adquirir competência, o grupo multidisciplinar deve receber treinamento específico e acumular experiência na execução do TAVI. Contudo, sua curva de aprendizado não está bem estabelecida. Nosso objetivo foi analisar o impacto da curva de aprendizado na seleção de pacientes, nos aspectos técnicos e nos resultados clínicos do TAVI. Métodos: Estudo observacional e prospectivo dos primeiros 150 pacientes submetidos a TAVI por via femoral, entre janeiro de 2009 e dezembro de 2013 divididos em tercis (n = 50) de acordo com a data do procedimento. Os desfechos foram definidos conforme os critérios Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2). Resultados: A idade foi de 82,5 ± 6,7 anos, sendo 44% homens e 75% em classe NYHA III/IV. O EuroSCORE (24,2 ± 13% vs. 21,2 ± 10,8% vs. 23,4 ± 14,3%) e o STS Score (5,9 ± 2,9% vs. 6,7 ± 4,3% vs. 5,8 ± 3,1%) foram similares entre os grupos. Observou-se redução gradativa nos tempos do procedimento (107,2 ± 48,1 minutos vs. 90,3 ± 42,2 minutos vs. 76,6 ± 37,7 minutos; p < 0,01) e de fluoroscopia (31,3 ± 9,6 minutos vs. 25,4 ± 8,7 minutos vs. 17,2 ± 6,2 minutos; p = 0,01), e no ...

Background: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an alternative treatment for high-risk or inoperable patients with aortic stenosis. The multidisciplinary team must undergo specific training and accumulate experience to achieve optimal results. However, its learning curve is not well established. Our objective was to investigate the impact of learning curve on patient selection, technical aspects and clinical outcomes of TAVI. Methods: Observational, prospective analysis of the first 150 patients undergoing transfemoral TAVI between January 2009 and December 2013. Patients were divided into tertiles (n = 50), according to the procedure date. Outcomes were defined according to Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2) criteria. Results: Mean age was 82.5 ± 6.7 years, 44% were male and 75% were in NYHA class III/IV. EuroS-CORE (24.2 ± 13% vs. 21.2 ± 10.8% vs. 23.4 ± 14.3%) and STS Score (5.9 ± 2.9% vs. 6.7 ± 4.3% vs. 5.8 ± 3.1%) were similar between groups. A gradual decrease was observed in procedure times (107.2 ± 48.1 minutes vs. 90.3 ± 42.2 minutes vs. 76.6 ± 37.7 minutes; p < 0.01), fluoroscopy times (31.3 ± 9,6 minutes vs. 25.4 ± 8.7 minutes vs. 17.2 ± 6.2 minutes; p = 0.01) and contrast volume (145.5 ± 70.9 mL vs. 123.2 ± 87.8 mL vs. 101.1 ± 50 mL; p = 0.01). Mortality decreased gradually (20% vs. 10% vs. 4%; p = 0,047), and lower bleeding and moderate-to-severe aortic regurgitation were ...