Infarto agudo al miocardio con arterias coronarias sin lesiones obstructivas (MINOCA): características clínicas de pacientes / Myocardial infarction without obstructive coronary artery disease: clinical characteristics in patients hospitalized in a coronary care unit

Introducción: El término MINOCA (Myocardial Infarction with Non-Obstructive Coronary Arteries) ha cobrado relevancia como diagnóstico de trabajo en el contexto de pacientes con sospecha de isquemia miocárdica y estudio coronario sin lesiones obstructivas. Objetivos: Describir las distintas etiologías y variables clínicas de pacientes con MINOCA hospitalizados en la unidad coronaria de nuestro centro (Hospital de la P Universalidad de Chile) Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo en el que se realizó un análisis descriptivo de las variables estudiadas. Además, se analizó el uso de los métodos de imágenes complementarios y otras variables pronósticas. El seguimiento se realizó dentro del primer año posterior al evento. Resultados: El diagnóstico etiológico más frecuente de los pacientes con MINOCA fue el de miocardiopatía por estrés (MCE). Se incluyeron 55 pacientes, 55% de ellos mujeres. La edad promedio fue 57 años y la frecuencia de factores de riesgo cardiovascular clásicos (FRCV) fue baja. En los pacientes con MCE se observó menores niveles de troponina ultrasensible; mayores niveles de NT-proBNP y mayor mortalidad en comparación a otras etiologías. Conclusiones: El perfil de pacientes con MINOCA hospitalizados en nuestro centro correspondió predominantemente a mujeres postmenopáusicas con baja frecuencia de FRCV. La mortalidad de los pacientes con MINOCA se concentró en el grupo con MCE.

Background: MINOCA (acronym for "Myocardial Infarction with Non-Obstructive Coronary Arteries") is relevant as a working guide in the diagnosis of patients with suspicion of ischemia and absence of obstructive coronary artery disease. Aim: to describe the different causes and clinical variables in patients with MINOCA admitted to a coronary care unit of a University hospital in Santiago, Chile. Methods: this is an observational retrospective analysis of relevant clinical variables in 55 patients finally diagnosed as having MINOCA. Use of image based studies and characteristics related to prognosis were also analyzed. Follow up extended for one year after the event. Results: 55 patients were included, 55% of them women. Mean age was 57 years; presence of traditional risk factors for myocardial infarction was low. The most common eventual etiologic diagnosis was Stress Cardiomyopathy (SCM) in which lower levels of ultrasensitive troponin and higher levels of NT-proBNP were observed. Mortality in SCM was higher than that observed in other etiologies. Conclusion: MINOCA was more frequent in post menopausal women. Mortality was greater in patients with SMC.

Revisión bibliográfica de Fasciolosis biliar: propósito de un caso / Bibliographic review of biliary fasciolosis: purpose of a case

The biliary pathology, is undoubtedly one of the most frequent surgical pathologies in Chile, statistical data establish the incidence of biliary pathology in over 20 years 30% of women have biliary lithiasis, of these 10% will present some complication as it is coledocolithiasis. On the other hand, hepatic fascioliasis or dystomatosis is a disease caused by hepatic fasciola, or duela, sabuaypé or Distomun hepaticum, corresponds to a flatworm, trematode of the digenea class, with affinity to stay in liver tissue, which when performing the biological cycle of the parasite can be the cause of choledocholithiasis, cholecystitis, cholangitis, pancreatitis, among others. We present a clinical case of chronic intracholedocianfasciolitis diagnosed by ERCP3,4. METHODS: Descriptive observational study, in addition to a systematic review in databases such as Pub-Med/MEDLINE, Elsevier, Cochrane and manually through the Internet in journals and public bodies. This work seeks to collect information from different authors regarding its incidence, management and established treatments. RESULTS: Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined to analyze the characteristics of the selected articles. We present the clinical case of a 47-year-old female patient, with a history of hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus and egg allergy who went to the Emergency Department due to a picture characterized by epigastralgia of 3 days of evolution. During endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP), 2 suggestive images of lyte are seen inside that finally result in 2 apparent live parasites.

Características y predictores ecocardiográficos de mortalidad en pacientes intervenidos con TAVI. La importancia de anticiparse al daño cardíaco global / Predictors of late mortality after TAVI: the relevance of early intervention to prevent global deterioration of cardiac function

Introducción: En nuestro medio, el implante percutáneo de prótesis aórtica (TAVI) se encuentra limitado a pacientes más añosos o de mayor riesgo quirúrgico, en quienes frecuentemente se retarda la intervención hasta que presenten signos avanzados de enfermedad. Objetivo: Evaluar el grado de compromiso miocárdico en pacientes sometidos a TAVI y determinar si la magnitud de este compromiso predice los resultados alejados del procedimiento. Métodos: Registro de pacientes sometidos a TAVI en 2 instituciones de Chile. Según la clasificación propuesta por Genereux el año 2017, se clasificaron desde el punto de vista ecocardiográfico como: 1) compromiso de ventrículo izquierdo; 2) compromiso de aurícula izquierda; 3) hipertensión pulmonar / insuficiencia tricuspídea significativa y 4) disfunción de ventrículo derecho. Resultados: Se incluyeron 209 pacientes. Se logró un procedimiento exitoso en 98,6%, registrándose una mortalidad intrahospitalaria de 2,9%. El compromiso cardíaco se extendió más allá de las cavidades izquierdas en 24,7% de los casos (estadíos 3 y 4). A una mediana de seguimiento de 650 días se registró una mortalidad de 26,8%. El compromiso de cavidades derechas (estadíos 3 y 4) se asoció a una mayor mortalidad (39,6% vs 22,1%, log rank p=0,015). En análisis multivariado, este compromiso fue el único factor que de forma independiente predijo mortalidad (HR 1,87, IC 1,01-3,44, p=0,044). Conclusiones: El compromiso de cavidades derechas se asocia a una mayor mortalidad alejada en pacientes sometidos a TAVI. Estos resultados debiesen estimular una derivación precoz de estos pacientes que, aunque añosos y de alto riesgo, tienen buenos resultados intervenidos precozmente.

Background: Locally, Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) is limited to very old or high-risk patients, whose intervention is frequently delayed until they develop signs of advanced disease. Aim: To evaluate the degree of myocardial compromise in patients undergoing TAVI and to determine whether the level of this compromise can predict results during follow-up. Methods: Registry of TAVI patients from 2 institutions in Chile. According to the classification proposed by Genereux in 2017, patients were classified based on the echocardiogram as 1) left ventricular compromise; 2) left atrial compromise; 3) pulmonary hypertension / severe tricuspid regurgitation; 4) right ventricular dysfunction. Results: The study included 209 patients. A successful procedure was achieved in 98.6% of cases, with an in-hospital mortality of 2.9%. Cardiac compromise extended beyond left chambers in 24.7% of cases (stages 3 and 4). During follow-up (median of 650 days) mortality was 26.8%. Right chambers involvement (stages 3 and 4) was associated with increased mortality (39.6% vs 22.1%, log rank p=0.015). In multivariate analysis, this compromise was the only factor that independently predicted mortality (HR 1.87, IC 1.01-3.44, p=0,044). Conclusions: Right chambers involvement was associated to increased mortality during follow-up of patients undergoing TAVI. These results should stimulate earlier referral of these high risk and older patients in order to obtain better results following the intervention.

Uso de aspirina en prevención primaria cardiovascular: es tiempo de cambiar el paradigma / Aspirin use for primary cardiovascular prevention: time for a paradigm shift

La Aspirina es una droga ampliamente utilizada con un protagonismo indiscutido en el escenario de la prevención secundaria. Sin embargo, el rol de este medicamento en prevención primaria es aún motivo de discusión. Los primeros ensayos que evaluaron la Aspirina en prevención primaria sugerían reducciones en el infarto agudo al miocardio y el accidente cerebrovascular -aunque no en la mortalidad- con un riesgo no despreciable de hemorragia mayor. Esto llevó a diversas sociedades científicas a recomendar su prescripción sólo en aquellos individuos con alto riesgo de eventos cardiovasculares. Desde el año 2018 en adelante, surgen diversos ensayos aleatorizados que han cuestionado estas indicaciones, mostrando beneficios clínicos muy discretos o ausentes. El objetivo de esta revisión es realizar un análisis histórico de la evidencia sobre el rol de la Aspirina en prevención primaria y resumir las recomendaciones actuales en este escenario.

Aspirin is widely used with a clear role in secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. However, its benefit in primary prevention is still a matter of discussion. The first trials evaluating Aspirin for primary prevention suggested reductions in acute myocardial infarction and stroke (although not in mortality) but with a non-negligible risk of major bleeding. This led to aspirin being recommended by various scientific societies, albeit limited to individuals at high risk of cardiovascular events. Since 2018 various randomized trials in primary prevention showed minimal or no beneficial effects of aspirin thus questioning its indication for this purpose. The aim of this review is to make an historical analysis of the evidence for the role of Aspirin in primary prevention and suggest modified recommendations for these subjects.

Resultados del implante percutáneo de válvula aórtica (TAVI). Experiencia después de la primera década desde la introducción de la técnica / Transcatheter aortic-valve implantation. A ten years clinical experience

BACKGROUND: Transcatheter aortic-valve implantation (TAVI) was introduced in 2002 and the first implants in our country were performed in 2010. AIM: To review the TAVI experience in our hospital, considering the technology improvements and gained experience throughout this period. MATERIAL AND METHODS: All patients undergoing TAVI in our center were included. Results and complications were adjudicated according to the Valve Academic Research Consortium-2 (VARC-2) criteria. Patients were divided in 3 groups, according to procedural year: Period 1: 2010-2015 (n = 35); Period 2: 2016-2018 (n = 35); Period 3: 2019-2021 (n = 41). Mortality up to one year after the procedure was recorded. RESULTS: Between 2010 and 2021, 111 TAVI procedures were performed. The mean age of patients was 82 years and 47% were women. Risk scores for in-hospital mortality were STS 6.7%, EUROSCORE II 8.0% and ACC/STS TAVR Score 4.9%. The trans-femoral route was used in 88% and a balloon-expandable valve was chosen in 82% of patients. A successful implant was achieved in 96%, with an in-hospital mortality of 1.8%. Mortality at 30 days and 1-year were 2.7 and 9.0%, respectively. During period 3, 100% of implants were successful, with no in-hospital mortality, less vascular complications (p < 0.01), less stroke (p = 0.04), less severe paravalvular leak (p = 0.01) and significantly lower rate of acute complications (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: TAVI achieves excellent results. With greater experience and better available technologies, these results are even more favorable.

Two-Minute Step Test as a Complement to Six-Minute Walk Test in Subjects With Treated Coronary Artery Disease.

The 2-Minute Step Test (2MST) has been presented as an alternative to the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) based on the association between the two tests in older adults; however, some authors propose that it should not be a substitute but rather a complement to the latter in the fitness evaluation. Specifically, in coronary disease, despite the potential and clinical utility of 2MST, the relationship of both tests in this population is unknown. This study aimed to determine the relationship between 6MWT and 2MST and to explore the relationship of biodemographic factors for both tests in subjects with treated coronary artery disease. For this, the 6MWT and the 2MST were applied to patients with coronary artery disease treated in 6 hospitals in Chile between May 2019 and February 2020. Additionally, lower limb strength was assessed by a chair-stand test, grip strength was assessed by a dynamometer, and physical measurements were applied. In total, 163 participants underwent both tests (average age = 58.7 ± 9.8 years; 73.6% men; 64.4% revascularized by angioplasty; 28.2% revascularized by surgery, and 7.4% treated by drugs or thrombolysis). Heart rate was higher at the end of the 6MWT, while the perception of effort was greater at the end of the 2MST. There was a weak positive correlation between the 6MWT and the 2MST in subjects with treated coronary disease (r = 0.28, p = 0.0003). While age (r = -0.27), weight (r = 0.25), height (r = 0.49), and strength of both lower limbs (r = 0.41) and grip strength (r = 0.53) correlated weakly or moderately to the covered distance in 6MWT, the number of steps by the 2MST correlated only weakly to height (r = 0.23), lower limb strength (r = 0.34), and grip strength (r = 0.34). Age, weight, height, lower limb strength, and grip strength would explain better the meters walked in the 6MWT than the steps achieved in the 2MST. With these findings, we can conclude that, in patients with treated coronary artery disease, it does not seem advisable to replace 6MWT with 2MST when it is possible to do so. Additionally, the 2MST may provide additional information in the fitness evaluation. However, the usefulness of 2MST in this population needs to be further studied.

Enfermedad coronaria en el paciente portador del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana / Coronary artery disease in patients infected with HIV

RESUMEN: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares, particularmente la enfermedad coronaria (EC), resultan de especial interés y preocupación en pacientes portadores del virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana (VIH). La ateromatosis acelerada como causa del aumento de prevalencia de enfermedad coronaria ha sido reconocida desde hace varios años en estos pacientes. No obstante, los mecanismos fisiopatológicos involucrados son múltiples y complejos e incluyen factores virales, la respuesta inflamatoria e inmunológica desencadenada por el virus, factores de riesgo cardiovascular tradicionales y efectos de la terapia antirretroviral combinada. Esta revisión de la literatura aborda dichos mecanismos y hace una actualización de los principales estudios clínicos que los sustentan. Se comenta además la evaluación de riesgo cardiovascular y los lineamientos para la revascularización de pacientes con EC portadores de VIH.

ABSTRACT: Cardiovascular diseases, particularly coronary artery disease are relevant in patients with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). For several years accelerated atheromatosis, a cause of increased prevalence in coronary disease, has been recognized in these patients. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms involved are multiple and complex, including viral factors, the inflammatory and immune response triggered by the virus, traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and the effects of combined antiretroviral therapy. This review of the literature addresses these mechanisms and updates the main clinical studies that support them. Cardiovascular risk assessment and guidelines for revascularization of HIV patients with CHD are also discussed.

Evaluación no invasiva de la significancia funcional de las lesiones coronarias mediante quantitative flow ratio (QFR): validación con reserva de flujo fraccional (FFR) / Functional significance of coronary artery lesions evaluated by quantitative flow ratio (QFR): a comparison fractional flow reserve (FFR)

RESUMEN: Introducción: La evaluación de lesiones coronarias mediante Reserva de Flujo Fraccional (FFR), es de elección para determinar su significancia funcional en el laboratorio de hemodinamia. La razón de flujo cuantitativo (Quantitative Flow Ratio, QFR) es una nueva técnica no invasiva para la evaluación de la significancia funcional de una estenosis coronaria, basada en el análisis de flujo a partir de la coronariografía diagnóstica, sin necesidad de hiperemia ni de la introducción de insumos adicionales. Objetivo: evaluar la correlación y valor predictivo del QFR comparado con FFR. Métodos: se seleccionaron arterias que contaban con medición de FFR realizados en nuestro centro y se analizó retrospectivamente el QFR a partir de las coronariografías de dichos estudios. Se excluyó lesiones de tronco y lesiones ostiales. La medición de FFR fue realizada con guía de presión ubicada distal al segmento afectado, mediante hiperemia con adenosina intracoronaria o intravenosa en infusión. Para el análisis de QFR se utilizan 2 proyecciones angiográficas ortogonales del vaso a interrogar con una separación de más de 25º entre ellas; ambas proyecciones deben coincidir en el eje para un correcto análisis. El análisis fue realizado por dos operadores, ciegos al resultado del FFR, utilizando el software QAngioXA (Medis ®, Netherland). Resultados: se analizaron 35 arterias, 57,1% Descendente Anterior (ADA), 20% Circunfleja (ACF) y 20% Derecha (ACD). El FFR promedio fue de 0,83±0,092 y 34,2% tuvieron como resultado un FFR ±0,80. El análisis retrospectivo del QFR se pudo realizar en 27 arterias; en las 8 restantes (22,9%) no fue posible su realización, ya sea por imágenes insuficientes o falta de perpendicularidad del segmento. El QFR promedio fue de 0,81±0,118. Hubo una buena correlación entre QFR y FFR (r =0,758; p0,8 pero QFR±0,8 en 3,7%; y FFR ±0,8 y QFR >0,8 en 3,7%. Así, el QFR tuvo una Sensibilidad: 90,9%, Especificidad: 93,8%; Valor Predictivo Positivo: 90,9%; Valor Predictivo Negativo: 93,8%; Likelihood Ratio Positivo: 14,55 y Likelihood Ratio Negativo: 0,1. La curva ROC mostró un área bajo curva: 0,923; 95% IC: 0,801-1,00. Conclusión: Los resultados del QFR en nuestra serie son similares a las mediciones de FFR. El uso de QFR podría ser una alternativa, rápida, económica y segura, en la evaluación fisiológica de lesiones coronarias. Se requieren mayores estudios clínicos para comprobar estos resultados.

ABSTRACT: Background: FFR is a gold standard used evaluate the severity of coronary artery lesions. QFR is a new non invasive technique for the same purpose based on the analysis of flow directly derived from routine coronary angiography, without additional intervention and with no induction of hyperemia. The aim was to compare the results obtained by QFR to those obtained by FFR in in terms of its predictive value. Method: Retrospective analysis of FFR measurements in routine coronary angiographic studies were compared to results obtained by means of QFR. Main left lesions were excluded. FFR was evaluated using pressure guides across the lesion under hyperemia induced by intracoronary or intravenous adenosine. Two orthogonal projections with no more than 25o difference between them were analyzed. The analysis was performed by two independent and operators blind to the results of FFR. The QAngioXA (Medis ®, Netherland) software was used in the analysis. Results: 35 coronary arteries were analyzed: LAD 57.1%, RCA 20.9%; Cx 20%. QFR was available for 27 arteries, the rest being discarded due to inadequate orientation of the artery. Mean QFR was 0.81 (SD 0.118). Mean difference between QFR and DD FFR was 0,04 (SD 0,006) (NS). Interobserver correlation was good (r=0.95, P 0.07). In only 7.4% of arteries there was a notable though not statistically significant difference between FFR and QFR, either due to under estimation or overestimation of lesion severity by QFR compared to FFR. Using FFR as a gold standard method QFR revealed sensitivity 90.9%, specificity 93.8%, The respective numbers for either positive or negative predictive values were the same. Area under the ROC curve was 0.923 (95% C.I. 0.01-1.00). Conclusion: this study reveals similar results of QFR compared to FFE in the estimation of coronary lesion severity. Given that QFR is a significantly less invasive and less expensive method than FFR, it may lead to an increased use of flow analysis in the determination of coronary artery lesion severity.

Why do We Use the Concepts of Adult Anesthesia Pharmacology in Developing Brains? Will It Have an Impact on Outcomes? Challenges in Neuromonitoring and Pharmacology in Pediatric Anesthesia.

BACKGROUND: Pediatric sedation and anesthesia techniques have plenty of difficulties and challenges. Data on the pharmacologic, electroencephalographic, and neurologic response to anesthesia at different brain development times are only partially known. New data in neuroscience, pharmacology, and intraoperative neuromonitoring will impact changing concepts and clinical practice. In this article, we develop a conversation to guide the debate and search for a view more attuned to the updated knowledge in neurodevelopment, electroencephalography, and clinical pharmacology for the anesthesiologic practice in the pediatric population.

Mid-term follow-up of balloon pulmonary angioplasty for inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension: An experience in Latin America.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the characteristics of patients who undergo balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) for inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) and report the mid-term outcomes. BACKGROUND: BPA has been recently introduced in Latin America. Mid-term results have not been published. METHODS: Prospective Chilean Registry of inoperable CTEPH patients who underwent BPA. Clinical variables were analyzed at baseline, after each procedure and at follow-up. Hemodynamic variables were recorded before and after the last BPA. RESULTS: Between August 2016 and September 2019, 22 patients (17 women), 59 ± 12.7 years, underwent 81 BPA and were followed for as long as 33.1 months (mean 17.3 ± 7.5). Mean pulmonary artery pressure decreased by 17.4% (51.1 ± 12 vs. 42.2 ± 13 mmHg, p = .001), pulmonary vascular resistance by 23.9% (766.7 ± 351 vs. 583 ± 346 dynes/s/cm-5 , p = .001), cardiac index increased by 8% (2.3 ± 0.54 vs. 2.5 ± 0.54 L/min/m2 , p = .012), N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide decreased by 73.8% (1,685 ± 1,045 vs. 441.8 ± 276 pg/dl, p = .006), and 6-min walk distance improved by 135 m (316.7 ± 94 vs. 451.1 ± 113 m, p = .001). One patient (4.5%) developed lung reperfusion injury and four patients (18.2%) had minor bleeding (hemoptysis), after the procedure. There was no mortality associated with BPA. CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm that BPA for inoperable CTEPH is a relatively safe procedure that improves clinical and hemodynamic parameters in the mid-term. This therapy should be considered as an alternative, mainly in places where access to PAH therapy or surgery is restricted.

Revascularización coronaria híbrida: un punto de encuentro entre cardiólogos intervencionistas y cirujanos cardíacos / Hybrid coronary revascularization: a meeting point between interventional cardiologists and cardiac surgeons

Resumen: La revascularización coronaria híbrida busca combinar el beneficio de las técnicas quirúrgicas y percutáneas para un manejo óptimo de pacientes seleccionados con enfermedad coronaria obstructiva multivaso. Esto permite asociar el beneficio del puente de arteria mamaria interna izquierda a la arteria descendente anterior (ADA) y combinarlo con el implante de stents en lesiones no-ADA. El objetivo de este trabajo es hacer una revisión de la literatura disponible con énfasis en sus resultados clínicos comparados con la estrategia convencional.

Abstract: Hybrid coronary revascularization seeks to combine the benefit of surgical and percutaneous techniques for optimal management of selected patients with multivessel coronary artery disease. This allows combining the benefit of the left internal mammary artery bypass to the anterior descending artery (LAD) and stent deployment in non-LAD lesions. The objective of this manuscript is to review the available literature with emphasis on its clinical results compared to the conventional strategy.

Historia natural del cierre percutáneo de foramen oval permeable / Natural history of patent foramen ovales closure

INTRODUCCIÓN: El cierre percutáneo del foramen oval permeable (FOP) se ha posicionado como el tratamiento de elección para la prevención secundaria de pacientes con infartos encefálicos (IE) criptogénicos asociados a FOP. OBJETIVO: Revisar los cierres de FOP realizados en nuestra institución, evaluando las características clínicas y del procedimiento, los resultados a mediano plazo luego del procedimiento y la tendencia en el número de intervenciones durante el período estudiado. MÉTODOS: Se incluyeron 101 pacientes consecutivos en que se realizó cierre de FOP, con una mediana de seguimiento de 4,6 años. Se analizaron las características basales de los pacientes, la indicación del cierre de FOP, el éxito del procedimiento y la presencia de shunt residual en ecocardiografía al año. Se realizó una encuesta telefónica estructurada a todos los pacientes, en la cual se preguntó por nuevo IE o crisis isquémica transitoria (CIT), otros eventos cardiovasculares y la presencia de sangrados. El seguimiento fue completado en el 95%. Se calculó el puntaje RoPE ("Risk of Paradoxical Embolism") el cual provee una estimación de la posibilidad de que ese IE se haya debido al FOP y del riesgo de repetir un nuevo IE en caso de no cerrar el FOP para cada paciente. RESULTADOS: La edad promedio fue de 49,1±13,7 años, con 53% mujeres. Sólo en 3 pacientes se diagnosticó una trombofilia. En 96 pacientes la indicación fue para prevención de embolía paradojal e IE (74% IE, 17% CIT y 4% embolía periférica), mientras que en 5% por síndrome de ortodeoxia/platipnea. El cierre de FOP fue exitoso en todos los pacientes. Shunt residual en ecocardiograma al año se observó en 5% - ninguno de estos pacientes presentó un nuevo evento encefálico durante el seguimiento. Se registraron 2 nuevos IE (4 IE por 1000 pacientes/año) y 1 nueva CIT (2 CIT por 1000 pacientes/año) en el seguimiento, con un promedio de presentación de 3,6 años post procedimiento. Esta tasa de eventos fue significativamente menor a lo predicho por el puntaje RoPE en nuestra cohorte. Se observó un marcado aumento en el número de procedimientos desde el año 2017 en adelante. CONCLUSIONES: En nuestra cohorte, el cierre de FOP fue un procedimiento exitoso y seguro. Se asoció a una baja tasa de nuevos eventos cerebrales, marcadamente menor a lo estimado por el puntaje de riesgo actualmente disponible (RoPE).

INTRODUCTION: The percutaneous closure of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) has been established as the preferred treatment for those with an ischemic stroke (IS) and associated PFO. AIMS: To review the PFO closure experience at our institution, characterizing the patients and procedures, mid-term results and the trend in the number of interventions during the study period. METHODS: One hundred and one consecutive patients undergoing PFO closure were included, with a median follow-up of 4.6 years. Baseline demographics, PFO closure indications, procedural success rates and residual shunt at 1-year were recorded. A telephonic survey was performed to complete follow-up, asking for new IS or transient ischemic attacks (TIA), other cardiovascular events and bleeding. Follow-up was completed by 95%. The RoPE score was calculated for each patient, providing an estimate of the chance a given IS being due to a PFO and the risk of a new event when the defect is not closed. RESULTS: Mean age was 49.1±13.7 years and 53% were females. Whereas the indication for PFO closure was paradoxical embolism in 96 patients (74% IS, 17% TIA and 4% peripheral embolism), in 5 it was for platypnea-orthodeoxia syndrome. All patients had a successful PFO closure procedure. Residual shunt at 1 year was found in 5% - yet, none of these patients experienced a new stroke during the study period. During follow-up there were 2 new IS (4 IS per 1,000 patients/year) and 1 new TIA (2 TIA per 1,000 patients/year), with a mean incidence time of 3.6 years after the procedure. This rate of new events was significantly lower than the one predicted by the RoPE score. From 2017 onwards, there was a marked increase in the number of procedures performed at our institution. CONCLUSION: In this cohort, PFO closure was a successful and safe procedure. It was associated to a low rate of new cerebral events during mid-term follow-up, markedly lower than the RoPE predicted rate.

Experiencia inicial con el uso de trombolisis local asistida por catéter de ultrasonido terapeútico (EKOSonic®) en pacientes con tromboembolismo pulmonar agudo / Use of local thrombolysis associated to therapeutic ultrasound (EKOSonic) in patients with acute pulmonary thromboembolism: a preliminary experience

INTRODUCCIÓN: El tromboembolismo pulmonar (TEP) es una causa frecuente de morbimortalidad cardiovascular y la trombolisis local asistida por ultrasonido (TLUS) constituye una alternativa de tratamiento validada para pacientes de riesgo intermedio. No existen reportes del uso de esta tecnología en el ámbito nacional. MÉTODOS: Análisis descriptivo, prospectivo, sobre una serie de pacientes con TEP agudo, de riesgo intermedio, tratados en forma percutánea con trombolisis local asistida por catéter de ultrasonido terapéutico (EKOSonic®). Se analiza la eficacia y seguridad del procedimiento mediante variables clínicas, hemodinámicas y radiológicas, así como desenlaces intra hospitalarios. Se reporta, además, el seguimiento a 30 días. RESULTADOS: Entre Junio de 2019 y Marzo de 2020, 4 pacientes con TEP de riesgo intermedio fueron tratados con esta técnica. El score PESI (Pulmonary Embolism severity Index) promedio era de 79,5 + 6,1. Dos pacientes requirieron la instalación de 2 catéteres para efectuar terapia bilateral. Se observó una reducción promedio en la presión sistólica de arteria pulmonar de 29% y en 3 de los 4 enfermos se logró revertir la dilatación ventricular derecha presente al ingreso. La carga trombótica se redujo en un 20% medido por score CTOI. No hubo complicaciones intraoperatorias ni intrahospitalarias asociadas a la intervención. CONCLUSIONES: En esta serie inicial, el uso de la trombolisis local con catéter de ultrasonido en pacientes con TEP de riesgo intermedio fue segura y efectiva. Los resultados perioperatorios y a 30 días fueron comparables a los descritos en experiencias internacionales; sin embargo, aún se requieren de estudios con mayor número de pacientes para confirmar los beneficios de esta técnica en nuestro medio.

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary thromboembolism (PE) is a common cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and local ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis (USAT) is a validated alternative treatment for intermediate-risk patients. There are no reports on the use of this technology in our country. METHODS: Prospective series of patients with acute, intermediate-risk PE treated percutaneously with therapeutic ultrasound catheter-assisted local thrombolysis (EKOSonic®). The efficacy and safety of the procedure were analyzed using clinical, hemodynamic, and radiological variables, as well as intra-hospital outcomes. The 30-day follow-up is also reported. RESULTS: between June 2019 and March 2020, a total of 4 patients with intermediate-risk PE were treated with this technique. The average PESI score was 79.5 + 6.1. Two out of 4 patients required the use of 2 catheters for bilateral therapy. The average reduction in systolic pressure of the pulmonary artery was 29% and 3 patients reversed the right ventricular dilation present at admission. The thrombotic burden was reduced by 20% according to the Computed Tomography Obstruction Index (CTOI). There were no intraoperative or in hospital complications associated with the intervention. CONCLUSION: In this initial series, the use of local thrombolysis with an ultrasound catheter in patients with intermediate-risk PE was safe and effective. The perioperative and 30-day outcomes were similar to those previously reported in international series. However, larger randomized trials are needed to confirm this potential benefit.

Angioplastía con balón para el tratamiento de la hipertensión arterial pulmonar por enfermedad tromboembólica crónica. Resultados hemodinámicos y clínicos inmediatos / Balloon pulmonary angioplasty for the treatment of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension

Background: Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) is a therapeutic alternative for patients with inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Aim: To report the initial experience with the "refined BPA technique" with the use of intravascular images. Patients and Methods: Between June 2015 and June 2016 we selected fourteen patients with CTEPH who were considered candidates for BPA. Lesions targeted for treatment were further analyzed using intravascular imaging with optical frequency domain imaging (OFDI). We report the immediate hemodynamic results and four weeks of follow-up of the first eight patients of this series. Results: We performed 16 BPA in eight patients aged 61 ± 14 years (88% women). Mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAPm) was 48.6 ± 5.8 mmHg. Success was achieved in seven patients (88%). A mean of 2.3 segments per patient were intervened in 11 sessions (1.6 sessions/ patient). Only one patient developed lung reperfusion injury. No mortality was associated with the procedure. After the last BPA session, PAPm decreased to 37.4 ± 8.6 mmHg (p=0.02). Pulmonary vascular resistance (RVP) decreased from 858,6 ± 377,0 at baseline to 516,6 ± 323,3 Dynes/sec/cm−5 (p<0.01) and the cardiac index increased from 2.4±0.6 at baseline to 2.8±0.3 L/min/m2 (p=0.01). At 4 weeks after the last BPA, WHO functional class improved from 3.3±0.5 to 2.5±0.5 (p<0,01) and six minutes walking distance from 331±92 to 451±149 m (p=0.01). Conclusions: BPA guided by OFDI for the treatment of inoperable CTEPH patients is a safe alternative with excellent immediate hemodynamic and clinical results.

Rehabilitación cardíaca fase I: progresión según pasos protocolizados en pacientes cardioquirúrgicos en un hospital público de Chile / Phase I cardiac rehabilitation: progression through protocolized steps in cardiosurgical in-patients in a public hospital in Chile

Resumen: Antecedentes: La Rehabilitación Cardíaca disminuye las complicaciones de la cirugía cardíaca y es mundialmente reconocida. A pesar de esto, en Chile su desarrollo ha sido lento y el reporte de experiencias bajo. Objetivo: Describir la progresión de acuerdo los pasos de rehabilitación y días postoperatorios en pacientes de rehabilitación cardíaca fase I en un hospital público de Temuco, Chile. Metodología: Se analizó una serie de casos de pacientes en rehabilitación cardíaca fase I, participantes de un protocolo basado en hitos motores de seis pasos: movilización en cama (P1); sedente borde cama (P2); marcha de 35 mts (P3); marcha hasta 100 mts (P4); marcha hasta 200 metros más subir/bajar un piso de escaleras (P5); marcha de 300 metros más subir/bajar dos pisos de escaleras (P6). Resultados: Se incluyeron 243 pacientes (1.033 sesiones) con una media de 65.9 años (DS 9.5), mediana de hospitalización 6 días. Del total de atenciones realizadas el día 1, en 53% de ellas se alcanzó el P1; en el día 2, en un 51% se alcanzó el P2 y en un 42% un paso ≥P3; en el día 3, en 44.78% se alcanzó paso ≥P4; en el día 4, en 37.75% se alcanzó ≥P4. En los días 5-7, aproximadamente 50% logró ≥P5. Conclusión: La progresión de los pasos es proporcional al día postcirugía y es más rápida en hombres. Al momento del alta, 75% de los pacientes alcanza una independencia funcional que les permite caminar dos cuadras y subir/bajar un piso de escaleras.

Abstract Background: Despite advances in cardiovascular disease management and the development of minimally invasive approaches, open cardiac surgery is still a preferred intervention in complicated cases. Phase I Cardiac Rehabilitation decreases complications associated with this intervention. Globally, cardiac rehabilitation is widely recommended. However, in Chile the implementation of this intervention has been slow and there are scarce reports of its result. Objective: To describe the progression according to steps and post-surgery days in cardiac rehabilitation phase I patients in the public hospital in Temuco, Chile. Methodology: We analyzed a series of cases of patients in cardiac rehabilitation phase I, participants of a protocol based on six-step motor levels: (S1) on-bed mobilization, (S2) sitting on the edge of the bed, (S3) Bipedal exercise and 35 meter walking, (S4) 100 meter walking, (P5) 200 meter walking plus going up one floor and down stairs, and (S6) 300 meter walking plus going two floors up and down stairs. Results: 243 patients were included, and 1,033 sessions were performed) Mean age was 65.9years-old (SD 9.5) and hospital stay run for a median of 6 days. From all sessions, on day one, 53% of patients reached S1. On day 2, 51% reached S2 and 36% walked (S3). On day 3, 44.78% reached ≥S4. On day 4, 37.75% reached ≥S4. On days 5-7, approximately 50% achieved ≥S5. Conclusion: the step progression is proportional to number of days after surgery, faster in men than compared to women. At discharge, 75 % of patients show functional independency that allows them to walk two blocks and go one floor up and down stairs.

Reperfusión fármaco-invasiva en el manejo del infarto agudo de miocardio en Chile: un llamado a la acción / Pharmaco-invasive reperfusion in acute myocardial infarction in Chile: a call for action

Resumen En Chile, se han logrado avances importantes en el manejo del Infarto Agudo de Miocardio (IAM) con elevación del segmento ST (IAMCEST). Debido a la mejoría en el diagnóstico precoz y tratamiento, particularmente, con el incremento de la Angioplastía Primaria (APP), hoy están dadas las condiciones para seguir progresando por la vía de la combinación de estrategias de reperfusión y la creación de Redes de Manejo del IAM. El siguiente artículo revisa la evidencia que justifica impulsar dicho avance y se esbozan posibles caminos para lograrlo.

Abstract In Chile, important advances have been made in the management of Acute Myocardial Infarction (MI) with ST segment elevation (STEMI). Due to the progress in early diagnosis and treatment, particularly with the increase in Primary Angioplasty (Primary PCI), nowadays there are conditions to improve early management through the combination of reperfusion strategies and the implementation of MI reperfusion networks. The present article reviews the evidence justifying the promotion of this strategy and outlines possible actions to achieve it.

Exceso de mortalidad no cardíaca en pacientes sometidos a angioplastía de puentes coronarios / Excess non cardiac mortality in patients undergoing PCI of venous coronary bypass grafts

Resumen: Introducción Las fallas de los puentes venosos pueden llegar casi al 50% a 10 años y la angioplastía percutánea es el tratamiento de elección. Estos pacientes constituyen un grupo de muy alto riesgo cardiovascular con tasas de mortalidad cercanas al 30% en el mediano plazo. Objetivo Caracterizar a la población sometida a angioplastia de puentes coronarios (APC) y comparar su mortalidad con un grupo pareado de pacientes intervenidos con Infarto agudo al miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMCEST). Métodos Estudio retrospectivo de tipo Caso-Control que incluyó a pacientes con APC entre los años 2010-2016 comparados con igual número de controles con IAMCEST pareados por edad y sexo. Se analizaron características clínicas del procedimiento y mortalidad, tanto global como de causa cardiaca usando T Student, Chi2 y curvas de Kaplan Meier. Resultados Se identificaron 63 pacientes sometidos a APC (total 76 procedimientos). Los puentes más comúnmente intervenidos fueron a la arteria circunfleja 48,7%. Hubo 18 (28,5%) pacientes fallecidos en el grupo APC y 6 (9,5%) pacientes en el grupo con IAM-CEST, lo que resultó en un exceso de mortalidad global en pacientes con APC (HR 3,02; IC 95% 1,11 - 8,22, p=0,02). Esta diferencia se debió a una mayor mortalidad de causa no cardiaca en el grupo APC (12,7% (n=8) vs 3,2% (n= 2) [p=0,04]). Conclusión Los pacientes sometidos a APC presentan una mortalidad 3 veces mayor que aquellos pacientes con IAMCEST, principalmente derivada de una mayor mortalidad no cardíaca.

Abstract: Background Failure rates of saphenous vein grafts can reach almost 50% at 10 years and percutaneous angioplasty is the treatment of choice. This is a group with a very high cardiovascular risk, with mid-term mortality rates close to 30%. Aim To describe the population undergoing coronary bypass angioplasty (CBA) and compare their mortality with an age and gender matched group of patients with acute myocardial infarction with ST segment elevation (STEMI) Methods This was a retrospective case-control study including patients with CBA between 2010-2016. This group was compared with the same number of controls with STEMI matched by age and sex. Clinical characteristics, procedure variables and overall mortality as well as cardiac mortality were analyzed using Student's T test, Chi squared test and Kaplan Meier curves (significance set at p <0.05). Results: We identified 63 patients undergoing CBA (76 procedures). The most commonly intervened bypasses were to the circumflex artery (48.7%). There were 18 (28.5%) patients who died in the CBA group and 6 (9.5%) patients in the STEMI group, which resulted in an excess of global mortality risk in patients with CBA (HR 3.02, 95% CI 1.11 - 8.22, p = 0.02). This difference was driven by a higher non-cardiac mortality in the CBA group (12.7% (n = 8) vs 3.2% (n = 2) [p = 0.04]) Conclusion Patients undergoing CBA have a mortality rate more than three times that of the STEMI patients, mainly due to a higher non-cardiac mortality.

Factors associated with thrombotic complications in pediatric patients with vascular malformations.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Thrombosis is an uncommon disorder in children. Patients with slowflow vascular malformations have higher risk of developing localized intravascular coagulation, which is closely related to the presence of thrombotic events. These episodes cause pain, can be recurrent and determine a clear deterioration in the quality of life. Moreover, serious complications such as pulmonary thromboembolism and eventually death have been described. The aim of the present study is to identify clinical and laboratory risk factors associated with thrombotic events in pediatric patients with vascular malformations. METHODS: Case-Control study. Clinical records of patients who consulted the vascular anomalies study group (VASG). This group carries out interdisciplinary assessment of patients with vascular malformations. From June 2008 to December 2014, 110 patients were assessed of whom 46 patients met the inclusion criteria, with half of them presenting a thrombotic complication and the others not, these latter serving as controls. Statistical analysis included multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine major risk factors for thrombosis. RESULTS: In the bivariate analysis we found a significant association between increased levels of Ddimer and thrombotic complications (OR 17.1 [95% CI 3.95-73.95; p<0.01]). In addition, a surface area≥10cm2 (OR 6.18 [95% CI 1.59-23.99; p<0.01]) and the presence of palpable phleboliths (OR 20.17 [95% CI 2.32-165.77; p<0.01]) were associated with a significant higher risk of thrombosis. Multivariate analysis identified older age (OR 1.33; p=0.013), a surface area≥10cm2 (OR 8.19; p=0.042) and palpable phleboliths (OR 85.29; p<0.01) as significant risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests the existence of clinical factors associated with higher risk of thrombotic complications, such as the extent of the malformation, palpable phleboliths and increased age among children with vascular malformations.

Sobrevida a mediano plazo en los pacientes con hipertensión arterial pulmonar en la era de terapias vasodilatadoras específicas del territorio vascular pulmonar / Survival of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension after the advent of specific pulmonary vasodilator therapies

Background: Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare and progressive disease. Long-term survival remains poor despite of advances in specific vasodilator therapy. Aim: To describe the survival rate in a cohort of PAH patients in two referral centers in Chile. Patients and Methods: One hundred fifteen patients aged 43 ± 15.6 years (85% females) with PAH qualified for this study. Their median pulmonary artery pressure was 55.4 ± 14 mmHg and their six minutes walking capacity was 368 ± 119 m. They were followed for 58 ± 0.4 months and their actual survival rates were compared with the estimated survival using the equation proposed by the French registry of PAH. Results: One, two and three year survival rates were 97, 94 and 89%, respectively. The observed survival rates were greater than the estimated survival. Conclusions: The improvement in survival rates observed in this cohort of patients is similar to what has been described in literature.