A review of the use of propensity score methods with multiple treatment groups in the general internal medicine literature.

BACKGROUND: Propensity score (PS) methods with two treatment groups (e.g., treated vs. control) is a well-established technique for reducing the effects of confounding in nonrandomized studies. However, researchers are often interested in comparing multiple interventions. PS methods have been modified to incorporate multiple exposures. We described available techniques for PS methods in multicategory exposures (≥3 groups) and examined their use in the medical literature. METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted for studies published in PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, and Web of Science until February 27, 2023. We included studies using PS methods for multiple groups in general internal medicine research. RESULTS: The literature search yielded 4088 studies (2616 from PubMed, 86 from Embase, 85 from Google Scholar, 1671 from Web of Science, five from other sources). In total, 264 studies using PS method for multiple groups were identified; 61 studies were on general internal medicine topics and included. The most commonly used method was that of McCaffrey et al., which was used in 26 studies (43%), where the Toolkit for Weighting and Analysis of Nonequivalent Groups (TWANG) method and corresponding inverse probabilities of treatment weights were estimated via generalized boosted models. The next most commonly used method was pairwise propensity-matched comparisons, which was used in 20 studies (33%). The method by Imbens et al. using a generalized propensity score was implemented in six studies (10%). Four studies (7%) used a conditional probability of being in a particular group given a set of observed baseline covariates where a multiple propensity score was estimated using a non-parsimonious multinomial logistic regression model. Four studies (7%) used a technique that estimates generalized propensity scores and then creates 1:1:1 matched sets, and one study (2%) used the matching weight method. CONCLUSIONS: Many propensity score methods for multiple groups have been adopted in the literature. The TWANG method is the most commonly used method in the general medical literature.

Canadian national electrophysiology ablation registry report 2011-2016.

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Interventional cardiac electrophysiology (EP) is a rapidly evolving field in Canada; a nationwide registry was established in 2011 to conduct a periodic review of resource allocation. METHODS: The registry collects annual data on EP lab infrastructure, imaging, tools, human resources, procedural volumes, success rates, and wait times. Leading physicians from each EP lab were contacted electronically; participation was voluntary. RESULTS: All Canadian EP centres were identified (n = 30); 50 and 45 % of active centres participated in the last 2 instalments of the registry. A mean of 508 ± 270 standard and complex catheter ablation procedures were reported annually for 2015-2016 by all responding centres. The most frequently performed ablation targets atrial fibrillation (PVI) arrhythmia accounting for 36 % of all procedures (mean = 164 ± 85). The number of full time physicians ranges between 1 and 7 per centre, (mean = 4). The mean wait time to see an electrophysiologist for an initial non-urgent consult is 23 weeks. The wait time between an EP consult and ablation date is 17.8 weeks for simple ablation, and 30.1 weeks for AF ablation. On average centres have 2 (range: 1-4) rooms equipped for ablations; each centre uses the EP lab an average of 7 shifts per week. While diagnostic studies and radiofrequency ablations are performed in all centres, point-by-point cryoablation is available in 85 % centres; 38 % of the respondents use circular ablation techniques. CONCLUSIONS: This initiative provides contemporary data on invasive electrophysiology lab practices. The EP registry provides activity benchmarks on national trends and practices.

The Gap in Prescribing Stroke Prevention Therapies in Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation After Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) commonly occurs after coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Patients with POAF are at higher risk of stroke and mortality. The use of oral anticoagulation (OAC) in POAF remains inconsistent, and the care gap is unknown. OBJECTIVE: We sought to evaluate rate of adherence and factors associated with OAC use in POAF patients after isolated CABG. METHODS: In this study, all patients who had an isolated CABG between April 1, 2019 and March 30, 2020, at Health Sciences North, Sudbury retrospectively were evaluated. We identified all patients who developed POAF and captured the use of OAC. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of OAC prescription. RESULTS: In total, 339 CABG patients between April 1, 2019 and March 30, 2020, were identified; 86 patients developed POAF. No patients had major perioperative bleeding. All POAF patients had an indication for OAC therapies based on CHADS 65 score. However, only 17 (19.8%) patients with POAF had OAC prescription at the time of hospital discharge.  Baseline characteristics were similar between those with or without OAC. In multivariable analysis, the use of dual antiplatelet therapy was associated with a decreased use of OAC therapy in POAF (OR 0.037 (95% CI 0.005, 0.29), P = .002). Moreover, in comparison to surgeon A, surgeon B was associated with a decreased use of OAC therapy, whereas surgeon C was associated with an increased use of OAC therapy in POAF (OR 0.15 (95% CI 0.03, 0.83), P = .03 and OR 6.49 (95% CI 1.21, 34.82), P = .03, respectively). None of the CHADS 65 elements, including age, hypertension, stroke, diabetes mellitus or congestive heart failure, correlated with the use of OAC. KEY FINDINGS: Eighty percent of patients who developed POAF after isolated CABG failed to receive stroke prevention therapies. The use of dual antiplatelet therapy and individual surgeons' preference were associated with the use of OAC therapy among POAF. CONCLUSIONS: This data set suggests that approximately only 1 in 5 patients with POAF after isolated CABG got prescribed OAC.

ST-elevation in ethylene glycol toxicity mimicking myocardial infarction.

Electrocardiographic changes due to ethylene glycol toxicity are described in a 37-year-old woman who presented with intentional overdose. She received prompt treatment with dialysis and fomepizole, which reversed profound metabolic acidosis. ST-elevation in leads I, aVL, and aVR were observed 87 h after admission along with diffuse repolarization abnormalities. Coronary angiography found no evidence of coronary artery disease, and echocardiogram revealed normal left ventricle size and a mildly hypokinetic basal inferior wall. Diffuse repolarization abnormalities persisted for several days. Review of literature supports the diagnosis of myocarditis induced by toxic metabolites of ethylene glycol in context of hepatic and renal failure.

Association of Receipt of Palliative Care Interventions With Health Care Use, Quality of Life, and Symptom Burden Among Adults With Chronic Noncancer Illness: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Importance: The evidence for palliative care exists predominantly for patients with cancer. The effect of palliative care on important end-of-life outcomes in patients with noncancer illness is unclear. Objective: To measure the association between palliative care and acute health care use, quality of life (QOL), and symptom burden in adults with chronic noncancer illnesses. Data Sources: MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and PubMed from inception to April 18, 2020. Study Selection: Randomized clinical trials of palliative care interventions in adults with chronic noncancer illness. Studies involving at least 50% of patients with cancer were excluded. Data Extraction and Synthesis: Two reviewers independently screened, selected, and extracted data from studies. Narrative synthesis was conducted for all trials. All outcomes were analyzed using random-effects meta-analysis. Main Outcomes and Measures: Acute health care use (hospitalizations and emergency department use), disease-generic and disease-specific quality of life (QOL), and symptoms, with estimates of QOL translated to units of the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Palliative Care scale (range, 0 [worst] to 184 [best]; minimal clinically important difference, 9 points) and symptoms translated to units of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale global distress score (range, 0 [best] to 90 [worst]; minimal clinically important difference, 5.7 points). Results: Twenty-eight trials provided data on 13 664 patients (mean age, 74 years; 46% were women). Ten trials were of heart failure (n = 4068 patients), 11 of mixed disease (n = 8119), 4 of dementia (n = 1036), and 3 of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 441). Palliative care, compared with usual care, was statistically significantly associated with less emergency department use (9 trials [n = 2712]; 20% vs 24%; odds ratio, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.68-1.00]; I2 = 3%), less hospitalization (14 trials [n = 3706]; 38% vs 42%; odds ratio, 0.80 [95% CI, 0.65-0.99]; I2 = 41%), and modestly lower symptom burden (11 trials [n = 2598]; pooled standardized mean difference (SMD), -0.12; [95% CI, -0.20 to -0.03]; I2 = 0%; Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale score mean difference, -1.6 [95% CI, -2.6 to -0.4]). Palliative care was not significantly associated with disease-generic QOL (6 trials [n = 1334]; SMD, 0.18 [95% CI, -0.24 to 0.61]; I2 = 87%; Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Palliative Care score mean difference, 4.7 [95% CI, -6.3 to 15.9]) or disease-specific measures of QOL (11 trials [n = 2204]; SMD, 0.07 [95% CI, -0.09 to 0.23]; I2 = 68%). Conclusions and Relevance: In this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials of patients with primarily noncancer illness, palliative care, compared with usual care, was statistically significantly associated with less acute health care use and modestly lower symptom burden, but there was no significant difference in quality of life. Analyses for some outcomes were based predominantly on studies of patients with heart failure, which may limit generalizability to other chronic illnesses.

Clinical research: remote magnetic navigation vs. manually controlled catheter ablation of right ventricular outflow tract arrhythmias: a retrospective study.

Aims: Remote magnetic navigation (RMN) is an alternative to manual catheter control (MCC) radiofrequency ablation of right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) arrhythmias. The data to support RMN approach is limited. We aimed to investigate the clinical and procedural outcomes in a cohort of patients undergoing RVOT premature ventricular complex/ventricular tachycardia (PVCs/VT) ablation procedures using RMN vs. MCC. Methods and results: Data was collected from two centres. Eighty-nine consecutive RVOT PVCs/VT ablation procedures were performed in 75 patients; RMN: 42 procedures and MCC: 47 procedures. CARTOXPTM or CARTO3 (Biosense Webster) was used for endocardial mapping in 19/42 (45%) in RMN group and 28/47 (60%) in MCC group; EnSiteTM NavXTM (St. Jude Medical) was used in the rest of the cohort. Stereotaxis platform (Stereotaxis Inc., St. Louis, MO, USA) was used for RMN approach. Procedural time was 113 ± 53 min in the RMN group and 115 ± 69 min in MCC (P = 0.90). Total fluoroscopic time was 10.9 ± 5.8 vs. 20.5 ± 13.8 (P < 0.05) and total ablation energy application time 7.0 ± 4.7 vs 11.9 ± 16 (P = 0.67) accordingly. There were two complications in RMN group and five in MCC (P = 0.43). Acute procedural success rate was 80% in RMN vs. 74% in MCC group (P = 0.46). After a median follow-up of 25 months (interquartile range 13-34), the success rate remained 55% in the RMN group and 53% in MCC (P = 0.96). Conclusion: Right ventricular outflow tract arrhythmia ablations were performed using half of fluoroscopic times with Stereotaxis platform RMN compared to manual approach. Acute and chronic success rates as well as complication rates were not significantly different.

Reduction in unnecessary ventricular pacing fails to affect hard clinical outcomes in patients with preserved left ventricular function: a meta-analysis.

Aims: Several pacing modalities across multiple manufacturers have been introduced to minimize unnecessary right ventricular pacing. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess whether ventricular pacing reduction modalities (VPRM) influence hard clinical outcomes in comparison to standard dual-chamber pacing (DDD). Methods and Results: An electronic search was performed using Cochrane Central Register, PubMed, Embase, and Scopus. Only randomized controlled trials (RCT) were included in this analysis. Outcomes of interest included: frequency of ventricular pacing (VP), incident persistent/permanent atrial fibrillation (PerAF), all-cause hospitalization and all-cause mortality. Odds ratios (OR) were reported for dichotomous variables. Seven RCTs involving 4119 adult patients were identified. Ventricular pacing reduction modalities were employed in 2069 patients: (MVP, Medtronic Inc.) in 1423 and (SafeR, Sorin CRM, Clamart) in 646 patients. Baseline demographics and clinical characteristics were similar between VPRM and DDD groups. The mean follow-up period was 2.5 ± 0.9 years. Ventricular pacing reduction modalities showed uniform reduction in VP in comparison to DDD groups among all individual studies. The incidence of PerAF was similar between both groups {8 vs. 10%, OR 0.84 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57; 1.24], P = 0.38}. Ventricular pacing reduction modalities showed no significant differences in comparison to DDD for all-cause hospitalization or all-cause mortality [9 vs. 11%, OR 0.82 (95% CI 0.65; 1.03), P= 0.09; 6 vs. 6%, OR 0.97 (95% CI 0.74; 1.28), P = 0.84, respectively]. Conclusion: Novel VPRM measures effectively reduce VP in comparison to standard DDD. When actively programmed, VPRM did not improve clinical outcomes and were not superior to standard DDD programming in reducing incidence of PerAF, all-cause hospitalization, or all-cause mortality.

Alternating trifascicular block and cardiac memory.

We describe a case of a 70year-old woman with effort dyspnea and alternating trifascicular conduction pattern, worsened with exercise to atrioventricular block (AV Block). The alternating conduction at rest resulted in marked T wave changes. We discuss the mechanism of T wave memory changes and the management of exercise-induced AV Block.

Distribution of abnormal potentials in chronic myocardial infarction using a real time magnetic resonance guided electrophysiology system.

BACKGROUND: Identification of viable slow conduction zones manifested by abnormal local potentials is integral to catheter ablation of ventricular tachycardia (VT) sites. The relationship between contrast patterns in cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and local electrical mapping is not well characterized. The purpose of this study was to identify regions of isolated, late and fractionated diastolic potentials in sinus rhythm and controlled-paced rhythm in post-infarct animals relative to regions detected by late gadolinium enhancement CMR (LGE-CMR). METHODS: Using a real-time MR-guided electrophysiology system, electrogram (EGM) recordings were used to generate endocardial electroanatomical maps in 6 animals. LGE-CMR was also performed and tissue classification (dense infarct, gray zone and healthy myocardium) was then correlated to locations of abnormal potentials. RESULTS: For abnormal potentials in sinus rhythm, relative occurrence was equivalent 24%, 27% and 22% in dense scar, gray zone and healthy tissue respectively (p = NS); in paced rhythm, the relative occurrence of abnormal potentials was found to be different with 30%, 42% and 21% in dense scar, gray zone and healthy myocardium respectively (p = 0.001). For location of potentials, in the paced case, the relative frequency of abnormal EGMs was 19.9%, 65.4% and 14.7% in the entry, central pathway and exit respectively (p = 0.05), putative regions being defined by activation times. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggests that gray zone quantified by LGE-CMR exhibits abnormal potentials more frequently than in healthy tissue or dense infarct when right ventricular apex pacing is used.

Comparative Effectiveness and Safety of Apixaban and Rivaroxaban in Older Patients with Atrial Fibrillation: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: There are no clinical trials with head-to-head comparison between the two most commonly used oral anticoagulants (apixaban and rivaroxaban) in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). The comparative efficacy and safety between these drugs remain unclear, especially among older patients who are at the highest risk for stroke and bleeding. OBJECTIVE: To compare the risk of major bleeding and thromboembolic events with apixaban versus rivaroxaban in older patients with AF. METHODS: We conducted a population-based, retrospective cohort study of all adult patients (66 years or older) with AF in Ontario, Canada who were treated with apixaban or rivaroxaban between April 1, 2011 and March 31, 2020. The primary safety outcome was major bleeding and the primary efficacy outcome was thromboembolic events. Secondary outcomes included any bleeding. Rates and hazard ratios (HRs) were adjusted for baseline comorbidities with inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW). RESULTS: This study included 42,617 patients with AF treated with apixaban and 30,725 patients treated with rivaroxaban. After IPTW using the propensity score, patients in the apixaban and rivaroxaban groups were well balanced for baseline values of demographics, comorbidities and medications; both groups had similar mean age of 77.4 years and 49.9% were female. At one year, the apixaban group had reduced risk for both major bleeding with an absolute risk reduction at one year of 1.1% (2.1% vs 3.2%; HR 0.65 [95% CI, 0.59-0.71]) and any bleeding (8.1% vs 10.9%; HR 0.73 [95% CI, 0.69-0.77]) with no difference in the risk for thromboembolic events (2.2% vs 2.2%; HR 1.02 [95% CI, 0.92-1.13]). CONCLUSIONS: Among AF patients, 66 years or older, treatment with apixaban was associated with reduced risk for major bleeding with no difference in risk for thromboembolic events compared with rivaroxaban.

Utilization of Shock Team and Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) in the Management of Cardiogenic Shock in Northern Ontario.

Background: Despite advancements in critical care and coronary revascularization, cardiogenic shock (CS) outcomes remain poor. Implementing a shock team and use of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) have been associated with improved CS outcomes, but its feasibility in remote and rural areas remains unknown. Methods: This retrospective study included patients with CS who required mechanical circulatory support (MCS) at Health Sciences North, Sudbury, Ontario. The analysis aimed to accomplish 2 objectives: first, to review the outcomes associated with use of Impella (Abiomed, Danvers, MA) and, second, to assess the feasibility of establishing a shock team to facilitate the local implementation of VA-ECMO. The primary endpoint was in-hospital mortality. Results: The outcomes of 15 patients with CS who received Impella between 2015 and 2021 were reviewed. Their average age was 65 years (standard deviation [SD]: 13), and 8 patients (53%) were female. CS was ischemic in 12 patients (80%). Transfemoral Impella CP (cardiac power) was the most frequently used (93%). Thirteen patients (87%) died during the index hospital stay post-Impella because of progressive circulatory failure. The shock team was established following consultations with several Canadian MCS centres, leading to the development of a protocol to guide use of MCS. There have been 4 cases in which percutaneous VA-ECMO using Cardiohelp (Getinge/Maquet, Wayne, NJ) has been used; 3 (75%) survived beyond the index hospitalization. Conclusions: This analysis demonstrated the feasibility of implementing a shock team in remote Northern Ontario, enabling the use of VA-ECMO with success in a centre with a sizeable rural catchment area. This initiative helps address the gap in cardiac care outcomes between rural and urban areas in Ontario.

Introduction: En dépit des avancées des soins aux patients en phase critique et de la revascularisation coronarienne, les résultats du choc cardiogénique (CC) semblent mauvais. La mise en place d'une équipe de choc et l'utilisation de l'oxygénation extracorporelle (ECMO, de l'anglais extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) par voie veino-artérielle (VA) (VA-ECMO) ont été associées à de meilleurs résultats du CC, mais on ignore sa faisabilité dans les régions éloignées et rurales. Méthodes: La présente étude rétrospective portait sur des patients en CC qui ont eu besoin d'une assistance circulatoire mécanique (ACM) à Horizon Santé-Nord, à Sudbury, en Ontario. L'analyse visait 2 objectifs : le premier objectif était de passer en revue les résultats associés à l'utilisation de Impella (Abiomed, Danvers, MA) et, le deuxième était d'évaluer la faisabilité de la mise en place d'une équipe de choc pour faciliter la mise en œuvre locale de la VA-ECMO. Le principal critère d'évaluation était la mortalité intrahospitalière. Résultats: Nous avons passé en revue les résultats cliniques de 15 patients ayant subi un CC qui avaient reçu une Impella entre 2015 et 2021. L'âge moyen était de 65 ans (écart type [ET] : 13), et 8 patients (53 %) étaient des femmes. Le CC était d'origine ischémique chez 12 patients (80 %). L'Impella CP (cardiac power, soit la pompe cardiaque) par voie transfémorale était la plus fréquemment utilisée (93 %). Treize patients (87 %) sont morts durant le séjour de référence à l'hôpital après l'utilisation de l'Impella en raison d'insuffisance circulatoire progressive. La mise en place de l'équipe de choc à la suite des consultations dans plusieurs centres canadiens d'ACM a mené à l'élaboration d'un protocole d'utilisation de l'ACM. Il y a eu 4 cas chez lesquels la VA-ECMO par voie percutanée à l'aide de Cardiohelp (Getinge/Maquet, Wayne, New Jersey, É.-U.) a été utilisée ; 3 (75 %) ont survécu après l'hospitalisation de référence. Conclusions: Cette analyse a démontré la faisabilité de la mise en place d'une équipe de choc dans les régions éloignées du nord de l'Ontario, qui a permis d'utiliser efficacement la VA-ECMO dans un centre d'une circonscription hospitalière rurale non négligeable. Cette initiative aide à remédier à l'écart des résultats en soins cardiaques entre les régions rurales et urbaines de l'Ontario.

Three-dimensional localization versus fluoroscopically only guided ablations: a meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Data regarding efficacy and safety of three-dimensional localization systems (3D) are limited. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized trials comparing combined fluoroscopy- and 3D guided to fluoroscopically-only guided procedures. DESIGN: A systematic search was performed using multiple databases between 1990 and 2010. Outcomes were acute and long-term success, ablation, procedure and fluoroscopic times, radiation dose (RD), and complications. RESULTS: Thirteen studies involving 1292 patients were identified. 3D were tested against fluoroscopic guidance in 666 patients for supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), atrial flutter (AFL), atrial fibrillation (AF), and ventricular tachycardia (VT). Acute and long-term freedom from arrhythmia was not significantly different between 3D and control for AFL (acute success, 97% vs. 93%, p = 0.57; chronic success, 93% vs. 96%, p = 0.90) or for SVT (acute success, 94% vs. 100%, p = 0.36; chronic success, 88% vs. 88%, p = 0.80). A shorter fluoroscopic time was achieved with 3D in AFL (p < 0.001) and in SVT (p = 0.002). RD was significantly less for both AFL (p = 0.002) and SVT (p = 0.01). Ablation and procedure time and complications were not statistically different. CONCLUSIONS: Success, procedure time, and complications were similar between fluoroscopy- and 3D-guided ablations. Fluoroscopic time and RD were significantly reduced for ablation of AFL and SVT with 3D.

Intermediate-term Outcomes Following a Case Series of Reoperations for Medtronic Freestyle Stentless Aortic Valves.

Background: Data are limited on long-term outcomes in patients who have undergone a reoperation following failure of a stentless aortic valve. Methods: Between 2006 and 2016, a retrospective analysis was performed on 24 patients who underwent open aortic valve replacement surgery for a failed stentless aortic valve prosthesis at Health Sciences North, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. The primary outcome was a low mortality rate from cardiac-related deaths after 5 years. Results: All patients underwent insertion of a Medtronic Freestyle bioprosthesis (Minneapolis, MN) implanted using the modified subcoronary technique for their initial operation. The interval from the first operation to the stentless redo surgery ranged from 6 to 13 years. Aortic valve reoperation was performed for structural valve deterioration in 96% (n = 23) of the cases. Reoperations involved a removal of the stented valve leaflets and standard aortic valve replacement within the stentless casing in 20% (n = 5) of the cases, with the remaining cases requiring complete removal of the stentless prosthesis and aortic valve replacement. In those in whom a complete removal of the stentless valve was possible (n = 19), no disruption of the native aortic root occurred, with a 0% rate of conversion to a Bentall procedure. No intraoperative mortality occurred. The 30-day and 10-year operative mortality rates were 4% and 16%, respectively. Conclusions: Redo surgery for failing stentless valves can be done with relatively low risk and with acceptable long-term outcomes without resorting to root-replacement techniques.

Contexte: Il existe peu de données sur les résultats à long terme chez les patients qui ont subi une réintervention chirurgicale après une défaillance d'une valve aortique sans armature (stentless) ayant été implantée. Méthodologie: Nous avons réalisé une analyse rétrospective, de 2006 à 2016, auprès de 24 patients ayant subi une intervention chirurgicale invasive de remplacement de valve aortique en raison de la défaillance d'une prothèse aortique sans armature à l'hôpital Health Sciences North situé à Sudbury (Ontario), au Canada. Le paramètre principal d'évaluation était un faible taux de mortalité d'origine cardiaque après 5 ans. Résultats: Tous les patients avaient initialement subi l'implantation d'une bioprothèse Medtronic Freestyle (Minneapolis, Minnesota) par la technique sous-coronaire modifiée. La période écoulée entre la première intervention chirurgicale et la réintervention au niveau de la valve sans armature allait de 6 à 13 ans. Dans 96 % des cas (n = 23), la réintervention était réalisée en raison d'une détérioration de structure de la valve aortique. La réintervention avait consisté en un retrait des cuspides avec armature et un remplacement de valve aortique standard dans la membrane sans armature dans 20 % des cas (n = 5) et un retrait complet de la prothèse sans armature avec remplacement de la valve aortique avait été nécessaire dans les autres cas. Chez les patients pour qui le retrait complet de la valve sans armature a été possible (n = 19), aucune déchirure de la racine aortique native n'est survenue et le taux de passage à une intervention de Bentall était de 0 %. Aucun décès peropératoire n'est survenu. Les taux de mortalité à 30 jours et à 10 ans s'élevaient à 4 % et à 16 %, respectivement. Conclusions: La réintervention chirurgicale après la défaillance d'une valve aortique sans armature peut être réalisée avec des risques re-lativement faibles et des résultats à long terme acceptables sans avoir recours à des techniques de remplacement de la racine aortique.

Association between concurrent use of diltiazem and DOACs and risk of bleeding in atrial fibrillation patients.

BACKGROUND: Diltiazem is a commonly used medication in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) with potential for a drug-drug interaction (DDI) with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). We aimed to assess the risk of major bleeding after co-prescription of diltiazem and DOACs among adults with AF. METHODS: We conducted a population-based, nested case-control study in Ontario, Canada. The study population included all patients with AF > 66 years on a DOAC between April 1, 2011, and March 31, 2018. Cases were patients admitted with major bleeding (index date). Each case was matched to two controls. We categorized exposure to diltiazem before the index date as: (a) current users (diltiazem use within 7 days); (b) recent users (diltiazem use within 8 to 90 days); and (c) unexposed (no diltiazem prescription or diltiazem prescription > 90 days before index date). Conditional logistic regression models were used to examine the association between bleeding and diltiazem co-prescription. RESULTS: Among 86,679 AF patients on a DOAC, the median age of AF patients was 80 years (interquartile range 75-85); 48.3% were women. We identified 2,766 cases (3.2%) who were hospitalized with major bleeding. After multivariable adjustment, there was a significant association between major bleeding and current use of diltiazem (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.37; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-1.73, p < 0.009) but no significant association between major bleeding and recent use of diltiazem (aOR 1.19, 95% CI 0.99-1.42, p = 0.06) as compared with the unexposed group. CONCLUSIONS: Current use of diltiazem was associated with major bleeding among AF patients receiving a DOAC.

Association Between Concurrent Use of Amiodarone and DOACs and Risk of Bleeding in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation.

Amiodarone is a commonly used pharmacotherapy in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), with a potential for drug-drug interactions with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). We aimed to assess the bleeding risk after co-prescription of amiodarone and DOACs among adults with AF. We conducted a population-based, nested case-control study in Ontario, Canada. The study population included all patients with AF aged >66 years on a DOAC between April 1, 2011 and March 31, 2018. Cases were patients admitted with major bleeding (index date). Controls were matched in a 2:1 ratio to cases. We categorized exposure to amiodarone before the index date as: (1) current users (amiodarone within 60 days), (2) past users (amiodarone within 61 to 140 days), and (3) unexposed (no amiodarone prescription or amiodarone prescription >140 days before index date). Conditional logistic regression models were used to examine the association between bleeding and amiodarone co-prescription. Among 86,679 patients with AF on a DOAC, we identified 2,766 cases (3.2%) admitted with major bleeding. The median age of patients with AF was 80 years (interquartile range 75 to 85); 48.3% were women. After multivariable adjustment, there was a significant association between major bleeding and current use of amiodarone (adjusted odds ratio 1.53; 95% confidence interval 1.24 to 1.89, p <0.001) but no significant association between major bleeding and past use of amiodarone (adjusted odds ratio 1.13, 95% confidence interval 0.76 to 1.68, p = 0.545) compared with the unexposed group. In conclusion, among older patients with AF on a DOAC, there was 53% increased odds of major bleeding with the current use of amiodarone.

The Safety of Early Discharge Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Among Patients in Northern Ontario and Rural Areas Utilizing the Vancouver 3M TAVI Study Clinical Pathway.

Background: Early hospital ( < 48 hours) discharge following transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is an increasingly adopted practice; however, data on the safety of such an approach among patients residing in North Ontario, including remote and medically underserved areas, are lacking. Methods: This retrospective study included patients who underwent TAVI in Sudbury, Ontario. The safety of early discharge after implementation of the Vancouver 3M (multidisciplinary, multimodality, but minimalist) clinical pathway was assessed. The primary endpoint was 30-day mortality. Resource utilization before vs after 3M clinical pathway implementation was also compared. Results: A total of 291 patients who underwent TAVI between 2012 and 2021 were included in the study. One in-hospital death (0.6%) occurred after the 3M clinical pathway implementation, with no mortality observed beyond hospital discharge. Eleven patients (6.7%) required rehospitalization within 30 days. The need for mechanical ventilation and surgical vascular cut-down declined from 100% and 97%, respectively, at baseline, to 6% and 2%. The number of patients receiving TAVI on a given procedural day increased from 2 to 3 patients. The median post-TAVI hospital length of stay decreased from 5 days (2-6 days) to 1 day (1-3 days) after 3M clinical pathway implementation. Conclusions: Following TAVI, early discharge of selected patients residing in Northern Ontario, including rural areas, using the Vancouver 3M clinical pathway was associated with favourable outcomes, short length of stay, and more-efficient resource utilization. These data can help improve healthcare efficiency and bridge variations in TAVI funding and accessibility in underserved locations.

Contexte: Il est de plus en plus admis d'accorder un congé rapide de l'hôpital (< 48 heures) après une implantation valvulaire aortique par cathéter (IVAC); toutefois, on ne dispose pas de données sur l'innocuité de cette pratique pour les patients du nord de l'Ontario, y compris ceux qui résident en régions éloignées moins bien desservies par les services médicaux. Méthodologie: Cette étude rétrospective a porté sur des patients ayant subi une IVAC à Sudbury (Ontario). L'innocuité d'un congé rapide après l'implantation selon le parcours de soins Vancouver 3M (multidisciplinaire, multimodal, mais minimaliste) a été évaluée. Le principal paramètre d'évaluation était la mortalité à 30 jours. Une comparaison de l'utilisation des ressources avant et après la mise en œuvre du parcours de soins 3M a également été effectuée. Résultats: Au total, 291 patients ayant subi une IVAC entre 2012 et 2021 ont été inclus dans l'étude. Un décès à l'hôpital (0,6 %) est survenu après la mise en œuvre du parcours de soins 3M, et aucune mortalité n'a été relevée après le congé de l'hôpital. Onze patients (6,7 %) ont dû être réhospitalisés dans les 30 jours suivants. Le recours à la ventilation mécanique et à la dénudation vasculaire a chuté, passant de 100 % et 97 % au départ, respectivement, à 6 % et 2 %. Le nombre de patients par jour d'intervention subissant une IVAC est passé de deux à trois patients. À la suite de la mise en œuvre du parcours de soins 3M, la durée médiane du séjour à l'hôpital après une IVAC est passée de cinq jours (deux à six jours) à un jour (un à trois jours). Conclusions: Après une IVAC, le congé rapide de patients sélectionnés habitant dans le nord de l'Ontario, y compris ceux habitant en région rurale, selon le parcours de soins Vancouver 3M a été associé à des résultats de santé favorables, à une durée courte d'hospitalisation et à une utilisation plus efficace des ressources. Ces données peuvent contribuer à améliorer l'efficacité des soins de santé et à combler des écarts liés aux variations du financement et de l'accessibilité des IVAC dans les régions moins bien desservies.

Direct Oral Anticoagulants vs Vitamin K Antagonists in Left Ventricular Thrombi: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: There is increasing interest in direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs), given their safety and convenience in atrial fibrillation, compared with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). However, the use of DOACs in left ventricular (LV) thrombi is considered off-label, with current guidelines recommending VKAs. The aim of this meta-analysis was to compare the safety and efficacy of DOACs to VKAs in the management of LV thrombi. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted for studies published between January 1, 2009 and January 31, 2021 in PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL. Included studies compared DOACs to VKAs for the treatment of LV thrombi and reported on relevant outcomes. Odds ratios (ORs) were pooled with a random-effects model. RESULTS: Sixteen cohort studies and 2 randomized controlled trials were identified, which included 2666 patients (DOAC = 674; VKA = 1992). Compared with VKAs, DOACs were associated with a statistically significant reduction in stroke (OR 0.63, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.42-0.96; P = 0.03; I 2 = 0%). There were no significant differences in bleeding (OR 0.72, 95% CI 0.50-1.02; P = 0.07; I2  = 0%), systemic embolism (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.41-1.44; P = 0.41; I2  = 0%), stroke or systemic embolism (OR 0.83, 95% CI 0.53-1.33; P = 0.45; I2  = 33%), mortality (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.64-1.57; P = 0.98; I2  = 0%) or LV thrombus resolution (OR 1.29, 95% CI 0.83-1.99; P = 0.26; I2  = 56%). CONCLUSIONS: Within the context of low-quality evidence, there was a statistically significant reduction in stroke among those treated with DOACs, without an increase in bleeding. There were no significant differences in systemic embolism, stroke or systemic embolism, mortality, or LV thrombus resolution, suggesting that DOACs may be a reasonable option for treatment of LV thrombi.

INTRODUCTION: Les anticoagulants oraux directs (AOD) font l'objet d'un intérêt grandissant par rapport aux antagonistes de la vitamine K (AVK) en raison de leur innocuité et de leurs avantages lors de fibrillation auriculaire. Toutefois, l'utilisation des AOD lors de thrombi du ventricule gauche (VG) est considérée comme non conforme selon les lignes directrices actuelles qui recommandent les AVK. L'objectif de la présente méta-analyse était la comparaison de l'innocuité et de l'efficacité des AOD aux AVK dans la prise en charge des thrombi du VG. MÉTHODES: Nous avons réalisé une recherche systématique pour trouver des études publiées entre le 1er janvier 2009 et le 31 janvier 2021 dans PubMed, Embase et CENTRAL. Les études sélectionnées qui portaient sur la comparaison des AOD aux AVK dans le traitement des thrombi du VG ont rendu compte de résultats pertinents. Nous avons regroupé les ratios d'incidence approché (RIA) au moyen d'un modèle à effets aléatoires. RÉSULTATS: Nous avons relevé 16 études de cohorte et deux essais cliniques à répartition aléatoire auprès de 2666 patients (AOD = 674; AVK = 1992). Par rapport aux AVK, les AOD étaient associés à une réduction significative sur le plan statistique lors d'accidents vasculaires cérébraux (AVC) (RIA 0,63, intervalle de confiance [IC] à 95 % 0,42-0,96; P = 0,03; I 2 = 0 %). Il n'y avait aucune différence significative en ce qui concerne les hémorragies (RIA 0,72, IC à 95 % 0,50-1,02; P = 0,07; I2  = 0 %), l'embolie systémique (RIA 0,77, IC à 95 % 0,41-1,44; P = 0,41; I2  = 0 %), les AVC ou l'embolie systémique (RIA 0,83, IC à 95 % 0,53-1,33; P = 0,45; I2  = 33 %), la mortalité (RIA 1,01, IC à 95 % 0,64-1,57; P = 0,98; I2  = 0 %) ou la résolution du thrombus du VG (RIA 1,29, IC à 95 % 0,83-1,99; P = 0,26; I2  = 56 %). CONCLUSIONS: Dans le contexte de données probantes de faible qualité, il y avait une réduction significative sur le plan statistique en ce qui concerne les AVC chez les patients traités par AOD sans augmentation des hémorragies. Puisqu'il n'y avait aucune différence significative en ce qui concerne l'embolie systémique, les AVC ou l'embolie systémique, la mortalité ou la résolution de thrombus du VG, cela indique que les AOD peuvent être une option valable de traitement des thrombi du VG.

Prescribing of two potentially interacting cardiovascular medications in atrial fibrillation patients on direct oral anticoagulants.

BACKGROUND: Amiodarone and diltiazem are commonly recommended cardiovascular medications for use in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. They are known to have drug-drug interactions (DDIs) with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). We aimed to evaluate frequency of use of amiodarone or diltiazem among continuous users of DOACs in AF patients and to determine factors associated with their co-use. METHODS: The study population included all AF patients with continuous DOAC use in Ontario, Canada, ≥66 years, from April 1, 2017 to March 31, 2018. Concurrent use of amiodarone or diltiazem was determined by identifying the presence of an overlapping prescription. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of amiodarone or diltiazem use. RESULTS: In total, 5,390 AF patients, ≥66 years, with continuous DOAC use were identified. Amiodarone was co-prescribed in 6.4% patients and diltiazem was co-prescribed in 11.2% patients. Prior percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG) were associated with significantly increased odds of amiodarone co-use (OR 2.51 [95% CI 1.54, 4.09], p = 0.0002 and OR 5.28 [95% CI 3.52, 7.93], p= <0.001, respectively). Patients with a heart failure (HF) history also had increased co-use of amiodarone (OR 2.05 [95% CI 1.57, 2.67], p < 0.001). The presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was associated with significantly increased odds of diltiazem co-use (OR 1.58 [95% CI 1.31, 1.9], p=<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Among AF patients with continuous DOAC use, amiodarone was co-prescribed in 1 in 16 patients and diltiazem was co-prescribed in 1 in 9 patients. Predictors such as history of HF, PCI, CABG or COPD help identify vulnerable populations at increased risk of DDIs.

Association of Cardiology Billing Amounts With Health Care Utilization and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation.

Background The relationship between health care utilization and outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation is unknown. The objective of this study was to investigate whether cardiologists' billing amounts in a fee-for-service environment are associated with better patient-level clinical outcomes. Methods and Results A retrospective cohort study was conducted using administrative claims data of cardiologists in Ontario, Canada between April 1, 2011 and March 31, 2016. The cardiologists were stratified into quintiles based on their median billing patterns per patient over the observation period. The primary outcomes were patient-level receipt of repeat visits, cardiac diagnostic tests, and medications ≤1 year of index date. The secondary clinical outcomes were death, emergency department visits, and all-cause hospitalization 1-year post-index visit. The patient cohort comprised 182 572 patients with atrial fibrillation (median age 74 years, 58% male) from 467 cardiologists. Patients with atrial fibrillation seen by higher-billing cardiologists were 26% more likely to have an echocardiogram (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.26 [95% CI, 1.10-1.43] for quintile 5 versus 2), 28% a stress test (aOR, 1.28 [1.12-1.46] for quintile 5 versus 2), 25% continuous electrocardiographic monitoring (aOR, 1.25 [1.08-1.46] for quintile 4 versus 2), and 79% more likely to get a stress echocardiogram (aOR, 1.79 [1.32-2.42] for quintile 5 versus 2). They also had a higher rate of all-cause hospitalization (aOR, 1.13 [1.07-1.20]). Mortality rates were similar across cardiologists billing quintiles (eg, aOR, 0.98 [0.87-1.11] for quintile 4 versus 2). Conclusions Higher-billing cardiologists ordered more diagnostic tests per patient with atrial fibrillation but these are not associated with improvements in outcomes.

Assessment of Radiation-Induced Malfunction in Cardiac Implantable Electronic Devices.

BACKGROUND: Radiation therapy (RT) is a standard cancer treatment modality, and an increasing number of patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) are being referred for RT. The goals of this study were as follows: (i) to determine the incidence of CIED malfunction following RT; (ii) to characterize the various types of malfunctions that occur; and (iii) to identify risk factors associated with CIED malfunction following RT. METHODS: A retrospective study of patients with CIEDs who received RT between 2007 and 2018 at 4 Canadian centres (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Kingston General Hospital, Hamilton Health Sciences Centre, and University of Ottawa Heart Institute) was conducted. Patients underwent CIED interrogation after completion of RT, to assess for late damage to the CIEDs. Data on demographics, devices, and RT were compared for the primary outcome of device malfunction. RESULTS: Of 1041 patients with CIEDs who received RT, 811 patients with complete data were included. Device malfunctions occurred in 32 of 811 patients (4%). The most common device malfunctions were reduced ventricular/atrial sensing (in 13 of 32 [41%]), an increase in lead threshold (in 9 of 32 [22%]), lead noise (in 5 of 32 [16%]), and electrical reset (in 2 of 32 [6%]). Higher beam energy (≥ 10 MV) was associated with malfunction (P < 0.0001). Radiation dose was not significantly different between the malfunction and non-malfunction groups (58.3 cGy vs 65 cGy, respectively, P = 0.71). CONCLUSIONS: Although RT-induced CIED malfunctions are rare (occurring in 4% of patients with a CIED who undergo RT), collaborative efforts between radiation oncologists and cardiac rhythm device clinics to optimize CIED monitoring are needed, to detect and manage CIED malfunctions. Malfunctions are more common in patients receiving higher-beam energy ( ≥ 10 MV ) RT.

CONTEXTE: La radiothérapie (RT) est une modalité standard de traitement du cancer, et un nombre croissant de patients porteurs de dispositifs cardiaques électroniques implantables (DCEI) doivent recevoir un traitement de RT. Les objectifs de cette étude étaient les suivants : (i) déterminer l'incidence d'une défaillance du DCEI après une RT; (ii) caractériser les différents types de défaillances qui se produisent; (iii) déterminer les facteurs de risque associés à la défaillance du DCEI après une RT. MÉTHODOLOGIE: Une étude rétrospective des patients avec un DCEI ayant reçu une RT entre 2007 et 2018 dans quatre centres canadiens (Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Kingston General Hospital, Hamilton Health Sciences Centre et Institut de cardiologie de l'Université d'Ottawa) a été menée. Le DCEI des patients a été interrogé après la fin de la RT, pour en évaluer les dommages tardifs. Les données sur les caractéristiques démographiques, les dispositifs et la RT ont été comparées pour le paramètre d'évaluation principal, soit la défaillance du dispositif. RÉSULTATS: Sur les 1 041 patients avec un DCEI ayant reçu une RT, 811 patients avec des données complètes ont été inclus. Des défaillances du dispositif sont survenues chez 32 des 811 patients (4 %). Les défaillances les plus fréquentes du dispositif étaient une détection ventriculaire/atriale réduite (chez 13 des 32 patients [41 %]), une augmentation du seuil de la sonde (chez 9 des 32 patients [22 %]), un bruit provenant de la sonde (chez 5 des 32 patients [16 %]) et une réinitialisation électrique (chez 2 des 32 patients [6 %]). Une énergie de faisceau plus élevée (≥ 10 MV) était associée à une défaillance (p < 0,0001). La dose de rayonnement ne présentait pas de différence significative entre le groupe où une défaillance a été constatée et l'autre groupe (58,3 cGy vs 65 cGy, respectivement, p = 0,71). CONCLUSIONS: Bien que les défaillances du DCEI causées par la RT soient rares (survenant chez 4 % des patients avec un DCEI qui subissent une RT), une collaboration est nécessaire entre les radio-oncologues et les cliniques de dispositifs de gestion du rythme cardiaque, afin d'optimiser la surveillance du DCEI et de détecter et de gérer ces défaillances. Les défaillances sont plus fréquentes chez les patients recevant une énergie de faisceau plus élevée au moment de la RT ( ≥ 10 MV ) .