Endothelial Microparticles: Markers of Inflammatory Response After Sutureless Valve Implantation

ABSTRACT Introduction: Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is related to increased circulating endothelial microparticles (EMP). Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the plasma concentration of EMP between patients undergoing aortic valve replacement with conventional bioprosthesis implantation and Perceval™ S (LivaNova) and to evaluate its impact on the inflammatory response in the short-term follow-up. Methods: This is a randomized clinical trial with 24 patients submitted to isolated aortic valve replacement divided into two groups: Perceval™ S (Group P) and conventional bioprostheses (Group C). Incidence of severe SIRS (three or more criteria) in the first 48 hours postoperatively, EMP release profile, interleukins (IL) 6 and 8, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin were analyzed preand postoperatively at 24 hours and three months. Results: There were 24 patients (12 in each group), mean age was 69.92±5.17 years, 83.33% were female, the incidence of severe SIRS was 66.7% and 50% in groups C and P, respectively (P=0.68), and EMP showed a significant increase in the 24-hour postoperative period (P≤0.001) and subsequent decrease in the three-month postoperative period (P≤0.001), returning to baseline levels. For IL-6 and IL-8, there was a greater increase in group C at 24 hours postoperatively (P=.0.02 and P<0.001). Conclusion: The incidence of severe SIRS was similar in both groups, with significantly higher levels of IL-6 and IL-8, at the 24-hour postoperative period, in group C, however with higher levels of EMP in group P, and subsequent return to baseline levels at the three-month postoperative period in both groups.

Endothelial Microparticles: Markers of Inflammatory Response After Sutureless Valve Implantation.

INTRODUCTION: Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is related to increased circulating endothelial microparticles (EMP). OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the plasma concentration of EMP between patients undergoing aortic valve replacement with conventional bioprosthesis implantation and Perceval™ S (LivaNova) and to evaluate its impact on the inflammatory response in the short-term follow-up. METHODS: This is a randomized clinical trial with 24 patients submitted to isolated aortic valve replacement divided into two groups: Perceval™ S (Group P) and conventional bioprostheses (Group C). Incidence of severe SIRS (three or more criteria) in the first 48 hours postoperatively, EMP release profile, interleukins (IL) 6 and 8, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin were analyzed preand postoperatively at 24 hours and three months. RESULTS: There were 24 patients (12 in each group), mean age was 69.92±5.17 years, 83.33% were female, the incidence of severe SIRS was 66.7% and 50% in groups C and P, respectively (P=0.68), and EMP showed a significant increase in the 24-hour postoperative period (P≤0.001) and subsequent decrease in the three-month postoperative period (P≤0.001), returning to baseline levels. For IL-6 and IL-8, there was a greater increase in group C at 24 hours postoperatively (P=.0.02 and P<0.001). CONCLUSION: The incidence of severe SIRS was similar in both groups, with significantly higher levels of IL-6 and IL-8, at the 24-hour postoperative period, in group C, however with higher levels of EMP in group P, and subsequent return to baseline levels at the three-month postoperative period in both groups.

Use of a Portable Mechanical Ventilator during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is Feasible, Improves Respiratory Parameters, and Prevents the Decrease of Dynamic Lung Compliance. / O Uso de um Ventilador Mecânico Portátil na Ressuscitação Cardiopulmonar é Viável, Melhora os Parâmetros Respiratórios e Previne a Redução da Complacência Pulmonar Dinâmica.

BACKGROUND: For practical and protective ventilation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a 150-grams mechanical ventilator (VLP2000E) that limits peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) during simultaneous ventilation with chest compressions was developed. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the feasibility of VLP2000E ventilation during CPR and to compare monitored parameters versus bag-valve ventilation. METHODS: A randomized experimental study with 10 intubated pigs per group. After seven minutes of ventricular fibrillation, 2-minute CPR cycles were delivered. All animals were placed on VLP2000E after achieving return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). RESULTS: Bag-valve and VLP2000E groups had similar ROSC rate (60% vs. 50%, respectively) and arterial oxygen saturation in most CPR cycles, different baseline tidal volume [0.764 (0.068) vs. 0.591 (0.123) L, p = 0.0309, respectively] and, in 14 cycles, different PIP [52 (9) vs. 39 (5) cm H2O, respectively], tidal volume [0.635 (0.172) vs. 0.306 (0.129) L], ETCO2[14 (8) vs. 27 (9) mm Hg], and peak inspiratory flow [0.878 (0.234) vs. 0.533 (0.105) L/s], all p < 0.0001. Dynamic lung compliance (≥ 0.025 L/cm H2O) decreased after ROSC in bag-valve group but was maintained in VLP2000E group [0.019 (0.006) vs. 0.024 (0.008) L/cm H2O, p = 0.0003]. CONCLUSIONS: VLP2000E ventilation during CPR is feasible and equivalent to bag-valve ventilation in ROSC rate and arterial oxygen saturation. It produces better respiratory parameters, with lower airway pressure and tidal volume. VLP2000E ventilation also prevents the significant decrease of dynamic lung compliance observed after bag-valve ventilation. Further preclinical studies confirming these findings would be interesting.

FUNDAMENTOS: Para ventilação prática e protetora durante a ressuscitação cardiopulmonar (RCP), desenvolveu-se um ventilador mecânico (VLP2000E) de 150 gramas que limita o pico de pressão inspiratória (PPI) durante ventilação e compressões torácicas simultâneas. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a viabilidade da ventilação com VLP2000E durante RCP e comparar os parâmetros monitorados versus ventilação com bolsa-válvula. MÉTODOS: Estudo experimental randomizado com 10 porcos intubados por grupo. Após sete minutos de fibrilação ventricular, iniciaram-se ciclos de RCP de 2 minutos. Todos os animais foram ventilados com VLP2000E após o retorno da circulação espontânea (RCE). RESULTADOS: Os grupos bolsa-válvula e VLP2000E apresentaram taxa de RCE (60% vs. 50%, respectivamente) e saturação arterial de oxigênio similares na maioria dos ciclos de RCP, volume corrente basal diferente [0,764 (0,068) vs. 0,591 (0,123) L, p = 0,0309, respectivamente] e, em 14 ciclos, diferentes PPI [52 (9) vs. 39 (5) cm H2O, respectivamente], volume corrente [0,635 (0,172) vs. 0,306 (0,129) L], ETCO2 [14 (8) vs. 27 (9) mm Hg], e pico de fluxo inspiratório [0,878 (0,234) vs. 0,533 (0,105) L/s], todos p < 0,0001. A complacência pulmonar dinâmica (≥ 0,025 L/cm H2O) diminuiu após o RCE no grupo bolsa-válvula, mas se manteve no grupo VLP2000E [ 0,019 (0,006) vs. 0,024 (0,008) L/cm H2O, p = 0,0003]. CONCLUSÕES: Ventilação com VLP2000E durante RCP é viável e equivalente a ventilação com bolsa-válvula quanto à taxa de RCE e saturação arterial de oxigênio. Esse ventilador produz melhores parâmetros respiratórios, com pressão das vias aéreas e volume corrente menores. Ventilação com VLP2000E também previne a redução significante da complacência pulmonar dinâmica observada após ventilação com bolsa-válvula. Seria interessante realizar mais estudos pré-clínicos para confirmar esses resultados.

O Uso de um Ventilador Mecânico Portátil na Ressuscitação Cardiopulmonar é Viável, Melhora os Parâmetros Respiratórios e Previne a Redução da Complacência Pulmonar Dinâmica / Use of a Portable Mechanical Ventilator during Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation is Feasible, Improves Respiratory Parameters, and Prevents the Decrease of Dynamic Lung Compliance

Resumo Fundamentos Para ventilação prática e protetora durante a ressuscitação cardiopulmonar (RCP), desenvolveu-se um ventilador mecânico (VLP2000E) de 150 gramas que limita o pico de pressão inspiratória (PPI) durante ventilação e compressões torácicas simultâneas. Objetivos Avaliar a viabilidade da ventilação com VLP2000E durante RCP e comparar os parâmetros monitorados versus ventilação com bolsa-válvula. Métodos Estudo experimental randomizado com 10 porcos intubados por grupo. Após sete minutos de fibrilação ventricular, iniciaram-se ciclos de RCP de 2 minutos. Todos os animais foram ventilados com VLP2000E após o retorno da circulação espontânea (RCE). Resultados Os grupos bolsa-válvula e VLP2000E apresentaram taxa de RCE (60% vs. 50%, respectivamente) e saturação arterial de oxigênio similares na maioria dos ciclos de RCP, volume corrente basal diferente [0,764 (0,068) vs. 0,591 (0,123) L, p = 0,0309, respectivamente] e, em 14 ciclos, diferentes PPI [52 (9) vs. 39 (5) cm H2O, respectivamente], volume corrente [0,635 (0,172) vs. 0,306 (0,129) L], ETCO2 [14 (8) vs. 27 (9) mm Hg], e pico de fluxo inspiratório [0,878 (0,234) vs. 0,533 (0,105) L/s], todos p < 0,0001. A complacência pulmonar dinâmica (≥ 0,025 L/cm H2O) diminuiu após o RCE no grupo bolsa-válvula, mas se manteve no grupo VLP2000E [ 0,019 (0,006) vs. 0,024 (0,008) L/cm H2O, p = 0,0003]. Conclusões Ventilação com VLP2000E durante RCP é viável e equivalente a ventilação com bolsa-válvula quanto à taxa de RCE e saturação arterial de oxigênio. Esse ventilador produz melhores parâmetros respiratórios, com pressão das vias aéreas e volume corrente menores. Ventilação com VLP2000E também previne a redução significante da complacência pulmonar dinâmica observada após ventilação com bolsa-válvula. Seria interessante realizar mais estudos pré-clínicos para confirmar esses resultados.

Abstract Background For practical and protective ventilation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), a 150-grams mechanical ventilator (VLP2000E) that limits peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) during simultaneous ventilation with chest compressions was developed. Objectives To evaluate the feasibility of VLP2000E ventilation during CPR and to compare monitored parameters versus bag-valve ventilation. Methods A randomized experimental study with 10 intubated pigs per group. After seven minutes of ventricular fibrillation, 2-minute CPR cycles were delivered. All animals were placed on VLP2000E after achieving return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Results Bag-valve and VLP2000E groups had similar ROSC rate (60% vs. 50%, respectively) and arterial oxygen saturation in most CPR cycles, different baseline tidal volume [0.764 (0.068) vs. 0.591 (0.123) L, p = 0.0309, respectively] and, in 14 cycles, different PIP [52 (9) vs. 39 (5) cm H2O, respectively], tidal volume [0.635 (0.172) vs. 0.306 (0.129) L], ETCO2[14 (8) vs. 27 (9) mm Hg], and peak inspiratory flow [0.878 (0.234) vs. 0.533 (0.105) L/s], all p < 0.0001. Dynamic lung compliance (≥ 0.025 L/cm H2O) decreased after ROSC in bag-valve group but was maintained in VLP2000E group [0.019 (0.006) vs. 0.024 (0.008) L/cm H2O, p = 0.0003]. Conclusions VLP2000E ventilation during CPR is feasible and equivalent to bag-valve ventilation in ROSC rate and arterial oxygen saturation. It produces better respiratory parameters, with lower airway pressure and tidal volume. VLP2000E ventilation also prevents the significant decrease of dynamic lung compliance observed after bag-valve ventilation. Further preclinical studies confirming these findings would be interesting.

Association between Clinical Risk Score (Heart, Grace and TIMI) and Angiographic Complexity in Acute Coronary Syndrome without ST Segment Elevation. / Associação entre Escores de Risco Clínico (HEART, GRACE e TIMI) e Complexidade Angiográfica na Síndrome Coronária Aguda sem Elevação do Segmento ST.

BACKGROUND: GRACE, TIMI and HEART scores have been previously validated to predict serious untoward events among patients with non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome (Non-ST ACS). However, the ability of these scores to discriminate the angiographic complexity of coronary artery disease has not been clearly established. OBJECTIVES: We sought to evaluate the correlation between clinical scores (TIMI, GRACE and HEART) and the anatomical complexity assessed by SYNTAX score, among non-ST ACS patients undergoing cinecoronariography. METHODS: Transversal cohort encompassing patients with diagnosis of Non-ST ACS referred to invasive stratification in our single center, between July 2018 and February 2019. Association between the scores was established by the Pearson's linear correlation test while the accuracy of the clinical scores versus SYNTAX score was determined with the ROC curve. RESULTS: A total of 138 patients were enrolled. Median GRACE, TIMI and HEART scores were 97, 3 and 5, respectively, whereas the median SYNTAX was 8. There was a positive correlation between the SYNTAX and the HEART (ρ =0.29; p<0.01) and GRACE (ρ =0.18; p<0.01) scores, but the correlation with TIMI reached no statistical significance (ρ =0.15; p=0.08). The HEART score was also the one with the highest area under the curve to predict a SYNTAX ≥32 [HEART = 0.81 (IC95% 0.7-0.91). HEART> 4 presented 100% sensitivity, with 50% specificity; and GRACE> 139 showed 55% sensitivity and 97% specificity for high SYNTAX. CONCLUSION: The clinical scores presented a positive, although modest, association with the SYNTAX score. The combined use of HEART and GRACE offers good accuracy for detecting angiographic complexity.

FUNDAMENTOS: Os escores GRACE, TIMI e HEART foram validados para avaliar desfechos clínicos desfavoráveis no contexto da suspeita de síndrome coronária aguda sem elevação do segmento ST (SCASSST). No entanto, a associação entre os escores clínicos e a complexidade angiográfica ainda não está bem estabelecida. OBJETIVOS: Descrever as características clínicas de pacientes com SCASSST admitidos em internação hospitalar para estratificação invasiva, a fim de avaliar a associação entre os escores clínicos (TIMI, GRACE e HEART) e a complexidade angiográfica, através do escore SYNTAX. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional incluindo pacientes com diagnóstico de SCA e admitidos no Instituto Dante Pazzanese de Cardiologia entre os meses de julho de 2018 e fevereiro de 2019. A associação entre os escores foi avaliada por correlações bivariadas e a sua acurácia pela área sob a curva (ASC) ROC. A significância estatística foi estabelecida em 5% (p < 0,05). RESULTADOS: Um total de 138 pacientes foram diagnosticados com SCASSST. As medianas do GRACE, TIMI e HEART foram de 97, 3 e 5, respectivamente. A mediana do SYNTAX foi de 8. Foram observadas correlações positivas do SYNTAX com o HEART (ρ = 0,29; p < 0,01) e o GRACE (ρ = 0,18; p < 0,03). Em contrapartida, a correlação com o TIMI não atingiu significância estatística (ρ = 0,15; p = 0,08). O HEART foi o escore com a maior ASC para predizer SYNTAX > 32 [HEART = 0,81] (IC 95% 0,7-0,91). HEART > 4 apresentou sensibilidade de 100%, com especificidade de 50%, e GRACE > 139 sensibilidade de 55% e especificidade de 97% para SYNTAX alto. CONCLUSÃO: Os escores clínicos de risco apresentam associação modesta ao escore SYNTAX. O uso combinado do HEART e do GRACE, entretanto, oferece acurácia favorável para a detecção de complexidade angiográfica.

Ivabradine plus conventional treatment vs conventional treatment alone in reducing the mean heart rate in heart transplant recipients: A randomized clinical trial.

The absence of afferent nerves for heart rate (HR) regulation leaves the transplanted heart under the influence of its internal and hormonal control. The HR of heart transplantation (HTx) recipients varies from to 90-110 bpm, indicating a lack of vagal parasympathetic tone. We hypothesized that the reduction in mean HR using an If-channel antagonist (ivabradine) could be effective and safe in HTx recipients. The primary objective of this open-label randomized clinical trial was to compare the mean HR at 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30, and 36 months after randomization between an ivabradine plus conventional treatment group (IG) and conventional treatment alone group (CG). The secondary objectives were reduction in mortality, graft dysfunction, and ventricular mass. All patients were randomized between 1 and 12 months after HTx. Ivabradine started at randomization. Of the 35 patients, 54.28% were in the CG and 45.72% in the IG. There were no significant between-group differences in demographics. Over time, the HR differences between the groups became significant (P < .01). There were no significant between-group differences in mortality, graft dysfunction, and ventricular mass. We conclude that ivabradine could effectively and consistently reduce the HR in HTx recipients.

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

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

Dor torácica na sala de emergência: quem fica e quem pode ser liberado? / Chest pain in the emergency room: who is left and who can be released?

A dor torácica aguda é um sintoma muito frequente nas unidades de emergência, constituindo-se em um possível sinal de alerta para as doenças com risco iminente de morte. Como a maioria desses pacientes é internada para avaliação de uma possível síndrome coronariana aguda, isso gera um custo hospitalar muito alto por paciente. Por conta dessa possibilidade diagnóstica, muitos emergencistas internam a maioria dos pacientes. Por outro lado, a liberação inapropriada daqueles com infarto agudo do miocárdio representa um risco para o médico e, especialmente, para o paciente. Outro ponto importante é a demora para o atendimento, em que há a influência de fatores relacionados ao paciente, assim como, pontos negativos na logística de atendimento dos serviços de emergência em nosso país. Para excelência no atendimento, é importante uma anamnese detalhada adicionada ao exame físico, a qual permite a elaboração das hipóteses diagnósticas. E para auxiliar os médicos na escolha da hipótese diagnóstica e na tomada rápida de decisão, escores de risco são disponibilizados, os quais, facilmente, identificam a probabilidade de eventos adversos. A conduta imediata de casos com risco de morte imediata tem como principal objetivo reduzir a morbidade e a mortalidade, aumentando, consequentemente, a segurança do profissional da emergência. Sugestões de fluxogramas e algoritmos para o atendimento desses pacientes na sala de emergência definem, de forma objetiva, quem fica e quem pode ser liberado

Acute chest pain is a frequent symptom in emergency units, being a possible war-ning sign of diseases with an imminent risk of death. Since most of these patients are hospitalized to evaluate possible acute coronary syndrome, this generates a very high hospital cost per patient. Because of this diagnostic possibility, emergency professionals admit most patients. In contrast, the inappropriate release of those with acute myocardial infarction poses a risk to the physician and, especially, the patient. Another important point is the delay in care, where there is an influence of patient-related factors, as well as negative points in the logistics of care in the emergency services in our country. For excellence in care, a detailed anamnesis added to the examination is important, allowing the elaboration of diagnostic hypotheses. Moreover, to assist physicians in selecting the diagnostic hypothesis and making fast decisions, there are risk scores that easily identify the likelihood of adverse events. The immediate management of cases with an imminent risk of death is the main objective to reduce morbidity and mortality and, consequently, increase the safety of emergency professionals. Flowcharts and algorithm suggestions targeting patients in the emergency room objectively define who stays and who can be released

Independent predictors of effective blood pressure control in patients with hypertension on drug treatment in Brazil.

Population assessment of effective blood pressure (BP) control is fundamental for reducing the global burden of hypertension, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The authors evaluated the effectiveness of BP control and determined independent predictors associated with effective control among patients with hypertension on drug treatment in a large cross-sectional study performed in two metropolitan areas in Brazil's southeast region. A total of 43 647 patients taking antihypertensive treatment were identified. Less than half of the patients (40.9%) had controlled BP (systolic BP <140 mm Hg and diastolic BP <90 mm Hg). Independent predictors of BP control were age, eating fruit daily, physical activity, previous cardiovascular disease, male sex, diabetes mellitus, ethnicity, and obesity. Simple variables associated with BP control may be utilized for knowledge translation strategies aiming to reduce the burden of hypertension.

Echocardiography for prognostication during the resuscitation of intensive care unit patients with non-shockable rhythm cardiac arrest.

AIM: Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) during cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) has been studied in victims of cardiac arrests. Our objective was to evaluate the feasibility and usefulness of TTE in victims of cardiac arrest with non-shockable rhythms hospitalized in intensive care units (ICUs). METHODS: This prospective and observational cohort study evaluated ICU patients with CPA in asystole or pulseless electrical activity (PEA). Intensivists performed TTE during intervals of up to 10s as established in the treatment protocol. Myocardial contractility was defined as intrinsic movement of the myocardium coordinated with cardiac valve movement. PEA without contractility was classified as electromechanical dissociation (EMD), and with contractility as pseudo-EMD. The images, the rates of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and the survival upon hospital discharge and after 180 days were evaluated. RESULTS: A total of 49 patients were included. Image quality was considered adequate in all cases and contributed to the diagnosis of CPA in 51.0% of the patients. Of the 49 patients included, 17 (34.7%) were in asystole and 32 (65.3%) in PEA, among which 5 (10.2%) were in EMD and 27 (55.1%) in pseudo-EMD. The rates of ROSC were 70.4% for those in pseudo-EMD, 20.0% for those in EMD, and 23.5% for those in asystole. Survival upon hospital discharge and after 180 days occurred only in patients in pseudo-EMD (22.2% and 14.8%, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: TTE conducted during cardiopulmonary resuscitation in ICU patients can be performed without interfering with care protocols and can contribute to the differential diagnosis of CPA and to the identification of a subgroup of patients with better prognosis.

Association between Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Troponin in Acute Coronary Syndrome / Relação entre Inibidores da Enzima de Conversão da Angiotensina e Troponina na Síndrome Coronariana Aguda

Background: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in the western world and its treatment should be optimized to decrease severe adverse events. Objective: To determine the effect of previous use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors on cardiac troponin I measurement in patients with acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation and evaluate clinical outcomes at 180 days. Methods: Prospective, observational study, carried out in a tertiary center, in patients with acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation. Clinical, electrocardiographic and laboratory variables were analyzed, with emphasis on previous use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and cardiac troponin I. The Pearson chi-square tests (Pereira) or Fisher's exact test (Armitage) were used, as well as the non-parametric Mann-Whitney's test. Variables with significance levels of <10% were submitted to multiple logistic regression model. Results: A total of 457 patients with a mean age of 62.1 years, of whom 63.7% were males, were included. Risk factors such as hypertension (85.3%) and dyslipidemia (75.9%) were the most prevalent, with 35% of diabetics. In the evaluation of events at 180 days, there were 28 deaths (6.2%). The statistical analysis showed that the variables that interfered with troponin elevation (> 0.5 ng / mL) were high blood glucose at admission (p = 0.0034) and ST-segment depression ≥ 0.5 mm in one or more leads (p = 0.0016). The use of angiotensin-converting inhibitors prior to hospitalization was associated with troponin ≤ 0.5 ng / mL (p = 0.0482). The C-statistics for this model was 0.77. Conclusion: This study showed a correlation between prior use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and reduction in the myocardial necrosis marker troponin I in patients admitted for acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation. However, there are no data available yet to state that this ...

Fundamento: A doença cardiovascular é a maior causa de mortalidade no mundo ocidental, devendo seu tratamento ser otimizado, para a redução de eventos adversos graves. Objetivo: Determinar o efeito do uso prévio de inibidores da enzima de conversão da angiotensina na mensuração da troponina I cardíaca em pacientes com síndrome coronariana aguda sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (SCASST), e avaliar os desfechos clínicos em até 180 dias. Métodos: Estudo prospectivo, observacional, em um centro terciário, em pacientes com síndrome coronariana aguda sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (SCASST). Foram analisadas variáveis clínicas, eletrocardiográficas e laboratoriais, com ênfase no uso prévio de inibidores da enzima de conversão da angiotensina e dosagem de troponina I cardíaca. Foram usados os testes qui quadrado de Pearson ou exato de Fischer , além do teste não paramétrico de Mann-Whitney. Variáveis com níveis de significância < 10% foram submetidas a modelo de regressão logística múltipla. Resultados: Incluídos 457 pacientes, com idade média de 62,1 anos, dos quais 63,7% eram do sexo masculino. Fatores de risco como hipertensão arterial sistêmica (85,3%) e dislipidemia (75,9%) foram os mais prevalentes, com 35% de diabéticos. Na avaliação de eventos em 180 dias, observaram-se 28 óbitos (6,2%). Na análise estatística, as variáveis que interferiram no aumento de troponina (> 0,5 ng/mL) foram a glicemia de admissão elevada (p = 0,0034) e o infradesnivelamento do segmento ST ≥ 0,5 mm, em uma ou mais derivações (p = 0,0016). Relacionada com troponina ≤ 0,5 ng/mL, esteve o uso de inibidores da enzima de conversão da angiotensina prévio à internação (p = 0,0482). ...

Association between angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and troponin in acute coronary syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality in the western world and its treatment should be optimized to decrease severe adverse events. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effect of previous use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors on cardiac troponin I measurement in patients with acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation and evaluate clinical outcomes at 180 days. METHODS: Prospective, observational study, carried out in a tertiary center, in patients with acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation. Clinical, electrocardiographic and laboratory variables were analyzed, with emphasis on previous use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and cardiac troponin I. The Pearson chi-square tests (Pereira) or Fisher's exact test (Armitage) were used, as well as the non-parametric Mann-Whitney's test. Variables with significance levels of <10% were submitted to multiple logistic regression model. RESULTS: A total of 457 patients with a mean age of 62.1 years, of whom 63.7% were males, were included. Risk factors such as hypertension (85.3%) and dyslipidemia (75.9%) were the most prevalent, with 35% of diabetics. In the evaluation of events at 180 days, there were 28 deaths (6.2%). The statistical analysis showed that the variables that interfered with troponin elevation (> 0.5 ng / mL) were high blood glucose at admission (p = 0.0034) and ST-segment depression ≥ 0.5 mm in one or more leads (p = 0.0016). The use of angiotensin-converting inhibitors prior to hospitalization was associated with troponin ≤ 0.5 ng / mL (p = 0.0482). The C-statistics for this model was 0.77. CONCLUSION: This study showed a correlation between prior use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and reduction in the myocardial necrosis marker troponin I in patients admitted for acute coronary syndrome without ST-segment elevation. However, there are no data available yet to state that this reduction could lead to fewer severe clinical events such as death and re-infarction at 180 days.

Tratamento da parada cardíaca experimental com adrenalina, vasopressina ou placebo / Experimental cardiac arrest treatment with adrenaline, vasopressin, or placebo

FUNDAMENTO: Na ressuscitação cardiopulmonar (RCP) prolongada, o efeito dos vasoconstritores não foi plenamente esclarecido. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o efeito pressórico da adrenalina e da vasopressina, e observar o retorno da circulação espontânea (RCE). MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo, randomizado, cego e placebo-controlado. Após sete minutos em fibrilação ventricular, porcos receberam ciclos de dois minutos de RCP. Tentou-se a desfibrilação (4 J/kg) uma vez aos 9 minutos e após cada ciclo, conforme o ritmo verificado, reiniciando-se a RCP imediatamente. Aos 9 minutos e depois de cada cinco minutos, aplicou-se adrenalina 0,02 mg/kg (n = 12 porcos), ou vasopressina 0,4 U/kg (n = 12), ou solução salina 0,9% 0,2 mL/kg (n = 8). A RCP continuou por 30 minutos ou até o RCE. RESULTADOS: A pressão de perfusão coronária aumentou para aproximadamente 20 mmHg nos três grupos. Com os vasoconstritores, a pressão alcançou 35 mmHg versus 15 mmHg com placebo (p < 0,001). Com vasopressina, manteve-se efeito de 15-20 mmHg após três doses versus zero com adrenalina ou placebo. Observou-se o RCE com frequência diferente (p = 0,031) entre adrenalina (10/12), vasopressina (6/12) e placebo (2/8). O tempo médio até o RCE não diferiu (16 minutos), nem o número de doses recebidas até então (uma ou duas). Entre os vasoconstritores não houve diferença significante, mas, frente ao placebo, apenas a adrenalina aumentou significantemente o RCE (p = 0,019). CONCLUSÃO: O efeito pressórico inicial dos vasoconstritores foi equivalente, e a vasopressina manteve um efeito tardio na ressuscitação prolongada. Apesar disso, comparando-se ao placebo, apenas a adrenalina aumentou significantemente a frequência do retorno da circulação espontânea.

BACKGROUND: The effect of vasoconstrictors in prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has not been fully clarified. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate adrenaline and vasopressin pressure effect, and observe the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). METHODS: A prospective, randomized, blinded, and placebo-controlled study. After seven minutes of untreated ventricular fibrillation, pigs received two minutes cycles of CPR. Defibrillation was attempted (4 J/kg) once at 9 minutes, and after every cycle if a shockable rhythm was present, after what CPR was immediately resumed. At 9 minutes and every five minutes intervals, 0.02 mg/kg (n = 12 pigs) adrenaline, or 0.4 U/kg (n = 12) vasopressin, or 0.2 mL/kg (n = 8) 0.9% saline solution was administered. CPR continued for 30 minutes or until the ROSC. RESULTS: Coronary perfusion pressure increased to about 20 mmHg in the three groups. Following vasoconstrictors doses, pressure level reached 35 mmHg versus 15 mmHg with placebo (p < 0.001). Vasopressin effect remained at 15-20 mmHg after three doses versus zero with adrenaline or placebo. ROSC rate differed (p = 0.031) among adrenaline (10/12), vasopressin (6/12), and placebo (2/8). Time-to-ROSC did not differ (16 minutes), nor the number of doses previously received (one or two). There was no difference between vasoconstrictors, but against placebo, only adrenaline significantly increased the ROSC rate (p = 0.019). CONCLUSION: The vasoconstrictors initial pressure effect was equivalent and vasopressin maintained a late effect at prolonged resuscitation. Nevertheless, when compared with placebo, only adrenaline significantly increased the ROSC rate.

Experimental cardiac arrest treatment with adrenaline, vasopressin, or placebo.

BACKGROUND: The effect of vasoconstrictors in prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has not been fully clarified. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate adrenaline and vasopressin pressure effect, and observe the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). METHODS: A prospective, randomized, blinded, and placebo-controlled study. After seven minutes of untreated ventricular fibrillation, pigs received two minutes cycles of CPR. Defibrillation was attempted (4 J/kg) once at 9 minutes, and after every cycle if a shockable rhythm was present, after what CPR was immediately resumed. At 9 minutes and every five minutes intervals, 0.02 mg/kg (n = 12 pigs) adrenaline, or 0.4 U/kg (n = 12) vasopressin, or 0.2 mL/kg (n = 8) 0.9% saline solution was administered. CPR continued for 30 minutes or until the ROSC. RESULTS: Coronary perfusion pressure increased to about 20 mmHg in the three groups. Following vasoconstrictors doses, pressure level reached 35 mmHg versus 15 mmHg with placebo (p < 0.001). Vasopressin effect remained at 15-20 mmHg after three doses versus zero with adrenaline or placebo. ROSC rate differed (p = 0.031) among adrenaline (10/12), vasopressin (6/12), and placebo (2/8). Time-to-ROSC did not differ (16 minutes), nor the number of doses previously received (one or two). There was no difference between vasoconstrictors, but against placebo, only adrenaline significantly increased the ROSC rate (p = 0.019). CONCLUSION: The vasoconstrictors initial pressure effect was equivalent and vasopressin maintained a late effect at prolonged resuscitation. Nevertheless, when compared with placebo, only adrenaline significantly increased the ROSC rate.

Interações medicamentaosas: definições e mecanismos / Drug interactions: definitions and mechanisms

Com mudanças na expectativa de vida, comorbidades edisponibilidade de novos fármacos, aumentou a ocorrênciade interações medicamentosas por mecanismos farmacocinéticose farmacodinâmicos. Para a biotransformação dosmedicamentos, os organismos desenvolveram sistemas enzimáticoscapazes de metabolizar e excretar esses produtos.Os polimorfismos genéticos dessas enzimas condicionamsua eficiência em metabolizar determinados medicamentos.A conjugação com moléculas solúveis em água, adicionadasao medicamento, facilitam sua excreção. Os transportadoresdesempenham importante papel no influxo, efluxo e na excreçãode medicamentos através dos sistemas biliar e urinário.O tratamento de doenças cardiovasculares frequentementeenvolve uso de múltiplos fármacos, principalmente nos pacientesidosos e portadores de comorbidades. Nesse sentido, éimportante o conhecimento dessas interações medicamentosas,frequentemente responsáveis pelos insucessos terapêuticos epela ocorrência de efeitos adversos...

With changes in life expectancy, co-morbidities and theavailability of new drugs, the occurrence of drug interactionsby pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic mechanisms hasincreased. For the bio-transformations of medications theorganisms have developed enzymatic systems able to metabolizeand excrete these products. The genetic polymorphisms ofthese enzymes affect their efficiency in metabolizing certaindrugs. The combination with water-soluble molecules addedto the medication facilitates the excretion. Transporters playan important role in the inflow, outflow and the excretion ofmedications through the biliary and urinary systems. Thetreatment of cardiovascular diseases often involves the useof multiple drugs especially in elderly patients and patientswith co-morbidities. In this sense, it is very important theknowledge about these drugs interactions which are oftenresponsible for the therapeutic failure and for the occurrenceof adverse effects...