[Swan Ganz catheter. Experts opinion]. / Catéter de Swan Ganz. Opinión de expertos.

Investigators have raised doubts as to the safety of the Swan Ganz catheter (SGC). In order to define the point of view of cardiologists in our country, the Argentine Society of Cardiology's Emergency Council organized a meeting to analyze their views in different settings (non-cardiac surgery, cardiac surgery, acute coronary syndromes and heart failure) using the RAND-UCLA appropriateness method. A detailed review with the scientific evidence was sent to the experts in cardiology prior to the meeting in the SAC auditorium where the panellists selected the clinical variables create the specific situations. These hypothetic situations were resent to the panellists at a second stage for their individual evaluation, rating the benefit-to-harm ratio of the procedure on a scale of 1 to 9 (1 meant that the expected harms greatly outweighed the expected benefits, and 9 that the expected benefits greatly outweighed the expected harms, 5 could mean either that the harms and benefits were roughly equal). Two experts analyzed the results, describing the agreement/disagreement ratio. Finally, each indication was classified as "appropriate" "uncertain" or "inappropriate" ,for the procedure in accordance with the panelists' median score: median scores in the 1-3 range were classified as inappropriate, those in the 4-6 range as uncertain, and those in the 7-9 range as appropriate. We observed high disagreement rates in SGC indications between cardiologists. However, the panelists were in favor of SGC use when situations included shock and myocardial dysfunction, especially in the presence of organic dysfunction. There were some situations when panelists considered SGC not useful, in patients without organ failure.

[Hyperglycemia in acute coronary syndrome: multidisciplinary scientific report]. / Hiperglucemia en el síndrome coronario agudo: informe científico multidisciplinario.

Hyperglycemia with or without pre-existing diabetes mellitus, occurs frequently in the setting of acute coronary syndrome. Previous studies have demonstrated that hyperglycemia is highly prevalent and is associated with an increased risk of hospital complications and death. The underlying pathophysiology related an adverse clinical outcome to hyperglycemia is unclear, and it is uncertain whether increased serum glucose is simply a marker of adverse outcomes or their cause. Detrimental effects of hyperglycemia on the cardiovascular system are multiple. Glycemia control with insulin would prevent adverse outcomes. Numerous glucose-control protocols have been developed and tested proving to be safe and effective. In an initiative from the Emergency Council of the Argentine Society of Cardiology, local experts analyzed the management of hyperglycemia in acute coronary syndrome. The main objective of the prevent statement is to summarize the current state of knowledge on glycemic control, and to offer general recommendations regarding glucose management in the coronary care unit.

[Blood glucose control during cardiac surgery. Report of the Emergency Council of the Argentine Society of Cardiology]. / Control de la glucemia en el postoperatorio de cirugía cardíaca. Informe del Consejo de Emergencias de la Sociedad Argentina de Cardiología.

Hyperglycemia after cardiac surgery is a common finding associated with the worse outcomes affecting both diabetic and non diabetic patients. Despite the large number of publications available, there is no universally accepted approach to this problem. In an initiative of the Emergency Council of the Argentine Society of Cardiology, local experts gathered to discuss the management of hyperglycemia after adult cardiac surgery. The main objective of the present paper is to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding glycemic control in postoperative cardiac surgery.

[Safety standards for the use of magnetic resonance in patients with cardiovascular devices]. / Normas de seguridad para el uso de resonancia magnetica en pacientes con dispositivos cardiovasculares.

We conducted a meeting of experts to establish rules for the management of patients with cardiovascular devices when they require a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study in the most common clinical scenarios, defining whether the study is safe, unsafe or conditional.

[Contrast induced nephropathy in acute coronary syndrome]. / Nefropatía por contraste en el síndrome coronario agudo.

Contrast induced nephropathy (CIN) is one of the most frequent causes of acute renal failure in hospitalized patients. It is associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality in patients hospitalized for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Risk factors and prevention strategies are not well defined. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and clinical risk factors associated to the development of contrast induced nephropathy in patients hospitalized for ACS. In a retrospective cohort we analyzed consecutive patients hospitalized for ACS undergoing urgent PCI within 72 hours from the admission. CIN was defined as a 25% increase of creatinine levels from baseline at 48 hours from the PCI. The inclusion period was from January 1, 2004 to June 30, 2010. A total of 125 patients were analyzed, and CIN occurred in 13 (10.4%) patients. An independent association was found between age (OR 1.05; 95% CI 1.004 to 1.11; p = 0.034), multiple vessel angioplasty (OR 2.2; 95% IC 1.07 to 4.8; p = 0.03) and the volume of contrast infused (OR 1.007; 95% CI 1.001 to 1.01; p = 0.014) with the development of CIN.

Leuko-platelet index predicts thrombotic events in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the predictive value of a bedside index in hospitalized patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). METHODS: We studied the association of leuko-platelet index (LPI: platelet count * leukocyte count/108) with risk of mortality, shock, or heart failure (combined end point-CEP), and with the response to antiplatelet therapy, measured by light transmission aggregometry. RESULTS: In the derivation cohort we included 1100 patients with non STEM-ACS, GRACE score of 133 ± 52, Crusade score 24,3 ± 14, 66% male, 65 + 11 years. LPI was 17 (12-24). LPI was higher (19 (13-25)) in patients with MI than in patients with unstable angina (16 (12-22) in (p < 0.001)). A total of 115 patients (10.5%) had the CEP. CEP was associated to LPI (OR 1.04 (1.002-1.08), p = 0.03), age (OR 1.01 (0.97-1.05), p = 0.62) and GRACE>140 (OR 8.1 (2.2-29), p = 0.02). LPI (OR 1.04 (1.004-1.07) p = 0.03) and GRACE score (OR 1.02 (1.01-1.03) p < 0.01) were associated to cardiovascular mortality. We confirmed these results in the validation cohort #1 (686 patients, 61 + 11 years old, 47% nonST-ACS, 53% ST-ACS, 21% had CEP) and in validation cohort #2 (218 patients, 56.8% males, 73 + 7 years old, 79% nonST-ACS, GRACE score 136 + 30) and 8.3% with CEP. We used the cutoff points of LPI obtained in the derivation cohort (>24). CONCLUSIONS: LPI > 24 was associated to CEP (OR (1.7-5.2), p 0.01), independently of age (OR 1 (0.98-1.02), p = 0.8), and GRACE score (OR 1.01 (0.99-1.01), p 0.69), and It was associated to antiplatelet resistance (OR 1.03 (95% CI 1.00-1.06) p = 0.05).

[Myocardial ischemia without coronary obstructions: MINOCA-INOCA. Review for decision making]. / Isquemia miocárdica sin lesiones coronarias obstructivas: MINOCA-INOCA. Revisión para la toma de decisiones.

One in every four coronarographies performed to study myocardial ischemia shows coronary angiographic stenosis less than 50%. This data triggered an increasing interest in the medical community. The American Society of Cardiology recently published a position paper about the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of this entity. Our group performed a narrative review reflecting the opinion of cardiology experts from different centers in Argentina. It aims physiopatologic and diagnostic aspect to understand the current approach in patients with MINOCA (myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries) e INOCA (demonstrated angina and ischemia but without coronary lesions that justify this syndrome).

Una de cada 4 coronariografías realizadas por isquemia miocárdica presenta lesiones menores al 50% Este dato desencadenó un creciente interés en la comunidad médica. La Sociedad Americana de Cardiología publicó recientemente un artículo que describe la posición consensuada de un grupo de expertos sobre la fisiopatología, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de esta entidad. Nuestro trabajo refleja una revisión narrativa y la posición de un grupo de expertos pertenecientes a diferentes instituciones con servicios de Cardiología jerarquizados. Aborda aspectos fisiopatológicos y diagnósticos para comprender el enfoque actual del tratamiento, tanto en pacientes que ingresan con diagnóstico de MINOCA (infa rto de miocardio con lesiones angiográficas no graves) o de INOCA (angina e isquemia demostradas, pero sin lesiones coronarias que justifiquen este síndrome).

[Primary angioplasty in Argentina. Results from ARGEN-IAM-ST registry]. / Angioplastia primaria en Argentina. Registro ARGEN-IAM-ST (Relevamiento Nacional del infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST).

Our objective was to evaluate clinical characteristics, results and morbi-mortality in primary angioplasty (PA), of patients treated with PA within 36 hours of a myocardial infarction (MI), included in a prospective, transversal, multicenter and national survey (ARGEN-IAM-ST). A total of 1142 patients treated with PA were registered, 61.2 ± 12 years old, 88% male, 20% diabetics and 58% with hypertension; 77.6% in Killip Kimball I and 6.2% in cardiogenic shock. The time from the onset of pain until admission was 153 (75-316) minutes, and door-balloon of 91 (60-150) minutes. The transferred patients (17%) showed longer delay to admission, 200 minutes (195-420; p = 0.0001) and door-to-balloon 113.5 minutes (55-207); p = 0.099. In 47.6% of the cases, the PA was made in the anterior descending artery, in 36.4% in the right coronary artery, in 14.8% in the circumflex artery and in 1.2% in the left coronary artery; in 95% with stent (29% pharmacological); 95% was successful, 1.3% presented post-infarct angina (APIAM), 1.3% re-infarct, 8.8% shock and 3.2% bleeding. Age > 64 years (OR 6.2 (95% CI: 3.2-12), p <0.001), diabetes (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.6-3.9, p < 0.001), re-infarction or APIAM (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.3-8.3, p = 0.011) and shock (OR 29.2 (15.6-54.8), p < 0.001) were independently associated with higher mortality. In-hospital mortality of acute myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation treated with PA was 7.6%. Transference from other center was associated with delay in the admission and treatment. Cardiogenic shock and post-infarct ischemia were associated with high mortality. There were no procedural variables associated with mortality.

Se evaluaron las características clínicas, demoras, resultados y morbimortalidad de 1142 pacientes tratados con angioplastia primaria (AP) dentro de las 36 horas del infarto, incluidos en el registro ARGEN-IAM-ST, de carácter prospectivo, transversal, multicéntrico y de alcance nacional. Edades: 61.2 ± 12 años, 88% varones, 20% diabéticos y 58% hipertensos; 77.6% en Killip y Kimball I y 6.2% en shock cardiogénico. El tiempo desde el inicio del dolor hasta el ingreso fue de 153 (75-316) minutos, y puerta-balón de 91 (60-150) minutos. Los casos derivados (17%) tuvieron mayor demora de ingreso, 200 minutos (195-420; p = 0.0001) y mayor tiempo puerta-balón, 113 minutos (55-207); p = 0.099. En 47.6% de los casos la AP se hizo en arteria descendente anterior, en 36.4% a coronaria derecha, en 14.8% a circunfleja y en 1.2% al tronco de coronaria izquierda; en 95% con stent (29% farmacológico). El 95% fue exitoso. El 1.3% presentó angina post-infarto (APIAM), 1.3% re-infarto, 8.8% shock y 3.2% sangrado. Se asociaron a mayor mortalidad edad > 64 años (OR 6.2 (IC 95%: 3.2-12), p < 0.001), diabetes (OR 2.5, IC 95% 1.6-3.9, p < 0.001), re-infarto o APIAM (OR 3.3, IC 95% 1.3-8.3, p = 0.011) y shock (OR 29.2 (15.6-54.8), p < 0.001). La mortalidad hospitalaria del infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST tratado con AP fue de 7.6%. La derivación se asoció a demora de tratamiento. El shock cardiogénico y la isquemia post-infarto se asociaron a alta mortalidad. No hubo variables del procedimiento asociadas a mortalidad.

Tratamiento al alta en insuficiencia cardiaca ¿cumplimos con las guías? Subanálisis del registro ARGEN-IC / Heart Failure Treatment at Hospital Discharge. Do we Adhere to Guidelines? A Sub-analysis of the ARGEN-IC Registry

RESUMEN Introducción: La insuficiencia cardiaca (IC) se puede clasificar de diferentes maneras. La más utilizada, según la fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda (FEVI), distingue a grupos con opciones terapéuticas que impactan en la morbimortalidad. Existe información sobre adherencia a las recomendaciones de tratamiento específico al alta de la internación por IC en otros países, pero carecemos de ésta en el nuestro. Objetivos: Evaluar la prescripción de drogas específicas para IC con FEVI reducida (ICFER) al alta de pacientes internados por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA), así como los parámetros clínicos relacionados con la indicación. Materiales y métodos: Pacientes incorporados al registro prospectivo ARGEN-IC, con diagnóstico de ICA. Se definió FEVI deteriorada a la ≤40%; se analizó la prescripción de drogas recomendadas para ICFER al alta, y su relación con parámetros clínicos. Datos incorporados a la base Survey Monkey y analizados con el programa STATA 14. Se utilizó el test de t o chi cuadrado según la variable utilizada. Resultados: 871 pacientes incluidos, edad 68,1 años y 72,4% varones. FEVI reducida en el 53,3%. La estadía hospitalaria fue 8 días (RIC 5-12) y la mortalidad 7,32%. El 12,6% egresó con tensión arterial sistólica >130 mmHg y el 64,4% con frecuencia cardíaca >70 latidos por minuto. El 22,5% egresó sin betabloqueantes, el 29,1% sin vasodilatadores y el 43,7% sin antialdosterónicos. Entre las probables contraindicaciones, observamos 12,6% de enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EPOC), 12,5% de índice de filtrado glomerular menor de 30 ml/min, 8,9% de creatinina mayor de 25 mg/dL y 0,44% hiperkalemia. Conclusiones: Constatamos prescripción subóptima y pobre cumplimiento de las recomendaciones; por ello es de vital importancia implementar estrategias para cambiar la realidad en nuestra región.

ABSTRACT Background: Heart failure (HF) can be classified in different ways. The most used classification is based on left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and involves groups with therapeutic options that impact on morbidity and mortality. The information about adherence to the recommendation of specific treatment at hospital discharge for HF comes from other countries but not ours. Objectives: To evaluate the prescription of specific drugs for HF with reduced LVEF (HFrEF) at discharge in hospitalized patients for acute heart failure (AHF), as well as the clinical parameters related to the indication. Methods: Patients with diagnosis of AHF incorporated to the prospective ARGEN-IC registry were included. Reduced LVEF was defined as that ≤40%. Prescription rate of drugs recommended for HFrEF at discharge and its association with clinical parameters was analyzed. Data was incorporated to the Survey Monkey electronic database and analyzed using STATA® software package. The Student's t test or chi-square test were used, as applicable. Results: A total of 871 patients were included; mean age was 68.1 years and 72.4% were men. LEVF was reduced in 53.3%. Length of hospital stay was 8 days (IQR 5-12) and mortality rate was 7.32%. At discharge, systolic blood pressure was >130 mm Hg in 12.6% of the patients and 64.4% had heart rate >70 beats per minute; 22.5% were discharged without beta-blockers, 29.1% without vasodilators and 43.7% without aldosterone antagonists. Comorbidities included chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in 12.6%, glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min in 12.5 %, serum creatinine >2.5 mg/dL in 8,9% and hyperkalemia in 0.44%. Conclusions: We documented suboptimal prescription rate and poor adherence to the recommendations; thus, it is extremely important to implement strategies to change the reality in our region.

Isquemia miocárdica sin lesiones coronarias obstructivas: MINOCA-INOCA: Revisión para la toma de decisiones GREECO (Grupo de Estudio de Enfermedades Coronarias) / Myocardial ischemia without coronary obstructions: MINOCA-INOCA. Review for decision making

Una de cada 4 coronariografías realizadas por isquemia miocárdica presenta lesiones menores al 50% Este dato desencadenó un creciente interés en la comunidad médica. La Sociedad Americana de Cardiología publicó recientemente un artículo que describe la posición consensuada de un grupo de expertos sobre la fisiopatología, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de esta entidad. Nuestro trabajo refleja una revisión narrativa y la posición de un grupo de expertos pertenecientes a diferentes instituciones con servicios de Cardiología jerarquizados. Aborda aspectos fisiopatológicos y diagnósticos para comprender el enfoque actual del tratamiento, tanto en pacientes que ingresan con diagnóstico de MINOCA (infa rto de miocardio con lesiones angiográficas no graves) o de INOCA (angina e isquemia demostradas, pero sin lesiones coronarias que justifiquen este síndrome).

One in every four coronarographies performed to study myocardial ischemia shows coronary angiographic stenosis less than 50%. This data triggered an increasing interest in the medical community. The American Society of Cardiology recently published a position paper about the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment of this entity. Our group performed a narrative review reflecting the opinion of cardiology experts from different centers in Argentina. It aims physiopatologic and diagnostic aspect to understand the current approach in patients with MINOCA (myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries) e INOCA (demonstrated angina and ischemia but without coronary lesions that justify this syndrome).

Angioplastia primaria en Argentina. Registro ARGEN-IAM-ST (relevamiento nacional del infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST) / Primary angioplasty in Argentina. Results from ARGEN-IAM-ST registr

Se evaluaron las características clínicas, demoras, resultados y morbimortalidad de 1142 pacientes tratados con angioplastia primaria (AP) dentro de las 36 horas del infarto, incluidos en el registro ARGEN-IAM-ST, de carácter prospectivo, transversal, multicéntrico y de alcance nacional. Edades: 61.2 ± 12 años, 88% varones, 20% diabéticos y 58% hipertensos; 77.6% en Killip y Kimball I y 6.2% en shock cardiogénico. El tiempo desde el inicio del dolor hasta el ingreso fue de 153 (75-316) minutos, y puerta-balón de 91 (60-150) minutos. Los casos derivados (17%) tuvieron mayor demora de ingreso, 200 minutos (195-420; p = 0.0001) y mayor tiempo puerta-balón, 113 minutos (55-207); p = 0.099. En 47.6% de los casos la AP se hizo en arteria descendente anterior, en 36.4% a coronaria derecha, en 14.8% a circunfleja y en 1.2% al tronco de coronaria izquierda; en 95% con stent (29% farmacológico). El 95% fue exitoso. El 1.3% presentó angina post-infarto (APIAM), 1.3% re-infarto, 8.8% shock y 3.2% sangrado. Se asociaron a mayor mortalidad edad > 64 años (OR 6.2 (IC 95%: 3.2-12), p < 0.001), diabetes (OR 2.5, IC 95% 1.6-3.9, p < 0.001), re-infarto o APIAM (OR 3.3, IC 95% 1.3-8.3, p = 0.011) y shock (OR 29.2 (15.6-54.8), p < 0.001). La mortalidad hospitalaria del infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST tratado con AP fue de 7.6%. La derivación se asoció a demora de tratamiento. El shock cardiogénico y la isquemia post-infarto se asociaron a alta mortalidad. No hubo variables del procedimiento asociadas a mortalidad.

Our objective was to evaluate clinical characteristics, results and morbi-mortality in primary angioplasty (PA), of patients treated with PA within 36 hours of a myocardial infarction (MI), included in a prospective, transversal, multicenter and national survey (ARGEN-IAM-ST). A total of 1142 patients treated with PA were registered, 61.2 ± 12 years old, 88% male, 20% diabetics and 58% with hypertension; 77.6% in Killip Kimball I and 6.2% in cardiogenic shock. The time from the onset of pain until admission was 153 (75-316) minutes, and door-balloon of 91 (60-150) minutes. The transferred patients (17%) showed longer delay to admission, 200 minutes (195-420; p = 0.0001) and door-to-balloon 113.5 minutes (55-207); p = 0.099. In 47.6% of the cases, the PA was made in the anterior descending artery, in 36.4% in the right coronary artery, in 14.8% in the circumflex artery and in 1.2% in the left coronary artery; in 95% with stent (29% pharmacological); 95% was successful, 1.3% presented post-infarct angina (APIAM), 1.3% re-infarct, 8.8% shock and 3.2% bleeding. Age > 64 years (OR 6.2 (95% CI: 3.2-12), p <0.001), diabetes (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.6-3.9, p < 0.001), re-infarction or APIAM (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.3-8.3, p = 0.011) and shock (OR 29.2 (15.6-54.8), p < 0.001) were independently associated with higher mortality. In-hospital mortality of acute myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation treated with PA was 7.6%. Transference from other center was associated with delay in the admission and treatment. Cardiogenic shock and post-infarct ischemia were associated with high mortality. There were no procedural variables associated with mortality.

[Vitamin D deficiency is associated with cardiovascular risk factors in a healthy population]. / El déficit de vitamina D se asocia a factores de riesgo en personas sin antecedentes cardiovasculares.

Vitamin D (VitD) deficiency is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We evaluated the association of VitD deficiency (<50 mmol/l) and cardiovascular risk factors in a healthy population, from July-November 2012, in a private center at Buenos Aires province. 333 people were included, aged 41.6±12.4 years (58.6% men), 49.2% practiced no physical activity, 56.8% were overweight (70.3% man vs 37.7% women, p<0.001), 12.5% with systolic blood pressure (SBP) >140 mmHg and 6% diastolic blood pressure (DBP) >90 mmHg. VitD deficiency was observed in 29.1% (31.3% man vs 26.1% women, p=0.3), more frequent with obesity (OR 1.85, IC95:1.05-3.25, p=0.02), HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C)<50 mg/dl (OR 1.71, IC95:1.06-2.76, p=0.02) and triglycerides>150 mg/dl (OR 1.77, IC95:1.02-3.06, p=0.03). A trend towards VitD deficiency and SBP>140 mmHg (OR 1.88, IC95:0.93-3.77, p=0.07) or DBP>90 mmHg (OR 1.39, IC95:0.5-3.65, p=0.5) was observed. Lineal correlation between VitD and HDL-C (p<0.001) or triglycerides (p<0.001) was observed. Multiple logistic regression showed that VitD deficiency association with low HDL-C was independent of age, female sex, obesity and physical activity. Association of VitD deficiency with hypetriglyceridemia was independent of age, female sex and obesity. This study shows an association between VitD deficiency and cardiovascular risk factors like obesity, low HDL <50 mg/dl and hypertriglyceridemia. A trend toward higher SBP was also observed. Experimental studies are granted in order to establish a cause-effect relationship.

El déficit de vitamina D (VitD) se asocia con mayor morbimortalidad. Se evaluó la relación entre el déficit de VitD (<20 mg/dl) y los factores de riesgo cardiovascular (FRCV) en pacientes sin antecedentes, de Julio a Noviembre 2012, en un centro privado de la Provincia de Buenos Aires. Se incluyeron 333 pacientes de 41.6±12.4 años (58.6% hombres), el 49.2% no realizaba actividad física, 56.8% con sobrepeso (hombres 70.3% vs 37.7% mujeres, p<0.001), 12.5% con PAS>140 mmHg y 6% PAD>90 mmHg. El déficit de VitD se observó en el 29.1% (31.3% hombres y 26.1% mujeres, p=0.3), más frecuente en obesos (OR 1.85, IC95:1.05-3.25, p=0.02), en HDL <50 mg/dl (OR 1.71, IC95:1.06-2.76, p=0.02) y triglicéridos(TG)>150 mg/dl (OR 1.77, IC95:1.02-3.06, p=0.03). Se observó tendencia a mayor déficit de VitD en TAS>140 mmHg (OR 1.88, IC95:0.93-3.77, p=0.07) y TAD>90 mmHg (OR 1.39, IC95:0.5-3.65, p=0.5). Se observó correlación lineal entre VitD con HDL (p<0.001) y triglicéridos (p<0.001). Por regresión logística múltiple, el déficit de VitD se asoció con HDL bajo independientemente de edad, sexo femenino, obesidad y actividad física, mientras que la asociación con hipertrigliceridemia fue independiente de edad, obesidad y sexo femenino, que fueron las otras variables asociadas con diferencia estadísticamente significativa en el univariable. Este estudio muestra una asociación entre el déficit de VitD y FRCV como la obesidad, el HDL<50 mg/dl y la hipertrigliceridemia. Se observó también una tendencia a mayor PA en pacientes con déficit de VitD. Se necesitan estudios experimentales para evaluar si la asociación es causal.

Beyond efficacy: pharmacokinetic differences between clopidogrel, prasugrel and ticagrelor.

INTRODUCTION: Clinical nonresponse to clopidogrel has been associated with variability in response. This has led to the development of other P2Y12 receptor inhibitors, such as prasugrel and ticagrelor, with different pharmacokinetic characteristics that influence their pharmacodynamics. AREAS COVERED: Clopidogrel response variability is attributable to its complex pharmacokinetics and is vulnerable to genetic polymorphisms in genes involved in absorption, metabolism and drug-drug interactions (i.e., proton pump inhibitors). Prasugrel which has a simpler metabolism, leading to greater bioavailability, seems to be less affected by genetic or drug-drug interactions and achieves a greater antiplatelet effect. Ticagrelor is the most novel compound approved with a simpler metabolism. Both prasugrel and ticagrelor reached their antiplatelet effect faster and to a much greater extent than clopidogrel. All these differences observed in kinetics explain, to some degree, the efficacy and safety profile observed in clinical trials for these molecules associated with other antiplatelet agents (aspirin, gpIIb/IIIa inhibitors) and anticoagulants. EXPERT OPINION: Clopidogrel is still the best standard of care. However, the pharmacokinetic advantages of both prasugrel and ticagrelor allow clinicians to center patient management by selecting the best drug for the appropriate subject.

Changing anticoagulant paradigms for atrial fibrillation: dabigatran, apixaban and rivaroxaban.

INTRODUCTION: Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) are the main therapeutic agents used to prevent embolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Despite their proven efficacy, VKAs are underused and have several limitations. In recent years, there has been great interest in the development of new oral anticoagulants with a more efficient pharmacological profile, first tested in venous thromboembolism prevention and later in AF. AREAS COVERED: The authors review the pharmacological differences between dabigatran, rivaroxaban and apixaban, and potential subgroups of patients in whom these new drugs would constitute a possible alternative to VKA therapy. Pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic data from each compound are analyzed in respect to their potential use in AF. This article provides an exhaustive review of the current status of this topic and the controversies still regarding each drug. EXPERT OPINION: Apixaban and rivaroxaban are under evaluation for thromboembolic prevention in AF; dabigatran was recently approved for this indication. Therefore, it is important to know the characteristics of these drugs as a potential alternative to VKAs.

Influencia de la cobertura médica sobre el tratamiento y el pronóstico del infarto con supradesnivel del ST.: Subanálisis del registro SCAR / Influence of Medical Coverage on the Treatment and Prognosis of ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: SCAR Registry Subanalysis

Introducción: El registro sobre Síndromes Coronarios Agudos en Argentina (SCAR) analizó la evolución intrahospitalaria del infarto de miocardio en nuestro país en pacientes que contaban con diferentes coberturas del sistema de salud, lo cual ha llevado al presente subanálisis derivado del registro SCAR. Objetivo: Determinar la influencia de la cobertura médica en el pronóstico intrahospitalario del infarto de miocardio. Material y métodos: El registro SCAR fue un estudio transversal, prospectivo y multicéntrico, que incluyó 476 pacientes con diagnóstico de infarto agudo de miocardio con supradesnivel del segmento ST (IAMST). La cobertura médica se diferenció en prepaga, obra social, PAMI y sin cobertura (solo estatal). Resultados: El 80% de los IAMST recibieron reperfusión, el 75% por angioplastia transluminal coronaria primaria (ATCP). La ATCP fue más frecuente en quienes tenían prepaga [OR 5,5 (2,5-12,4); p < 0,001] y los pacientes con PAMI [OR 0,47 (0,24-087); p = 0,02] o sin cobertura recibieron menos ATCP [OR 0,34 (0,2-0,6); p < 0,001]. El 13% fueron derivados a otro centro, más frecuentemente si tenían PAMI (p = 0,002). El tiempo hasta la ATCP fue mayor en pacientes con PAMI [240 (88-370) min; p = 0,0005] y menor si tenían prepaga [80 (42-120) min; p < 0,001]. La mortalidad intrahospitalaria del IAMST fue del 8%, 2,8% con prepaga, 4,3% con cobertura estatal, 6,88% con obra social y 25% con PAMI (ANOVA < 0,001). Tener prepaga se asoció con una mortalidad menor [OR 0,27 (0,08-0,91); p = 0,035] y tener PAMI se asoció con una mortalidad mayor, aun ajustado por sexo, edad y comorbilidades [OR 2,40 (1,1-5,8); p = 0,05]. Conclusión: El tratamiento y la mortalidad del IAMST fueron diferentes según la cobertura médica.

Background: The Acute Coronary Syndromes in Argentina (SCAR) registry analyzed in-hospital myocardial infarction out-come in patients with different medical coverage provided by the healthcare system; this has led to the present subanalysis derived from the SCAR registry. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the influence of medical coverage on myocardial infarction in-hospital prognosis. Methods: The SCAR registry was a cross-sectional, prospective, multicenter study including 476 patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI). Medical coverage was classified in prepaid health insurance, social security insurance, PAMI and without medical coverage (except public coverage). Results: Eighty percent of STEMI patients received reperfusion therapy, 75% by primary transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA). PTCA was more frequent in those with prepaid health insurance [OR 5.5 (2.5-12.4); p<0.001] and less frequent in PAMI patients [OR 0.47 (0.24-0.87), p=0.02] or in those without any medical coverage [OR=0.34 (0.2-0.6), p<0.001]. Thirteen percent of patients were transferred to another hospital, more frequently if they were PAMI patients (p=0.002). Time to PTCA was longer in patients with PAMI [240 (88-370) min, p=0.0005] and shorter in patients with prepaid health insurance [80 (42-120) min, p<0.001]. Overall in-hospital STEMI mortality was 8%, 2.8% in patients with prepaid health insurance, 4.3% in patients with public medical coverage, 6.88% in patients with social security insurance and 25% in patients covered by PAMI (ANOVA <0.001). Mortality was significantly lower in patients with prepaid health insurance [OR=0.27 (0.08-0.91), p=0.035] and higher in patients with PAMI, even after adjusting by sex, age and comorbidities [OR 2.40 (1.1-5.8), p=0.05]. Conclusion: STEMI treatment and mortality were different according to the type of medical coverage.

Catéter de Swan Ganz: Opinión de expertos

Actualmente existen dudas sobre la seguridad del uso del catéter de Swan Ganz (CSG). Para definir la opinión de los cardiólogos de nuestro país, el Consejo de Emergencias Cardiovasculares de la Sociedad Argentina de Cardiología (SAC) realizó una reunión para evaluar la opinión de expertos en diferentes escenarios (cirugía no cardíaca, cardíaca, síndromes coronarios e insuficiencia cardíaca), usando el método RAND-UCLA appropiateness. Se envió la evidencia bibliográfica previa a la reunión en la SAC y en la misma los panelistas seleccionaron las variables para conformar las situaciones clínicas que luego fueron enviadas para que individualmente, en una segunda etapa, determinaran si consideraban beneficioso o perjudicial la utilización del catéter con una escala de 1 a 9 (1 significaba que los potenciales perjuicios superaban a los beneficios, 9 que los beneficios eran mayores y 5 que podía considerarse indistintamente beneficioso o perjudicial). Dos expertos analizaron los resultados, describiendo la tasa de acuerdo/desacuerdo. Finalmente, cada indicación se clasificó como “apropiada”, “dudosa” o inapropiada de acuerdo a la mediana definida por los panelistas: 1-3 se clasificó como inapropiado, 4-6 dudoso y 7-9 como indicación apropiada. Observamos gran discrepancia en la opinión sobre la indicación de CSG entre los expertos. Sin embargo, los panelistas estuvieron a favor de su utilización en situaciones que incluían shock y disfunción miocárdica, especialmente cuando se asoció disfunción orgánica. Hubo situaciones en las que los panelistas consideraron inapropiada la indicación del CSG, en pacientes sin disfunción orgánica.

Investigators have raised doubts as to the safety of the Swan Ganz catheter (SGC). In order to define the point of view of cardiologists in our country, the Argentine Society of Cardiology’s Emergency Council organized a meeting to analyze their views in different settings (non-cardiac surgery, cardiac surgery, acute coronary syndromes and heart failure) using the RAND-UCLA appropriateness method. A detailed review with the scientific evidence was sent to the experts in cardiology prior to the meeting in the SAC auditorium where the panellists selected the clinical variables create the specific situations. These hypothetic situations were resent to the panellists at a second stage for their individual evaluation, rating the benefit-to-harm ratio of the procedure on a scale of 1 to 9 (1 meant that the expected harms greatly outweighed the expected benefits, and 9 that the expected benefits greatly outweighed the expected harms, 5 could mean either that the harms and benefits were roughly equal). Two experts analyzed the results, describing the agreement/disagreement ratio. Finally, each indication was classified as “appropriate,” “uncertain” or “inappropriate” for the procedure in accordance with the panelists’ median score: median scores in the 1-3 range were classified as inappropriate, those in the 4-6 range as uncertain, and those in the 7-9 range as appropriate. We observed high disagreement rates in SGC indications between cardiologists. However, the panelists were in favor of SGC use when situations included shock and myocardial dysfunction, especially in the presence of organic dysfunction. There were some situations when panelists considered SGC not useful, in patients without organ failure.

Valor pronóstico del índice leucoglucémico en el infarto agudo de miocardio: Resultados del Registro Multicéntrico SCAR / Prognostic Valué of the Leuko-glycemic Index in Acute Myocardial Infarction: Results from the SCAR Multicenter Registry

Introducción: Se conoce que la leucocitosis y la hiperglucemia se correlacionan a corto plazo con peor pronóstico en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo, pero su novel relación, denominada índice leucoglucémico (ILG), se ha evaluado escasamente. Objetivos: Analizar el valor pronóstico del ILG en pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMCEST) y su valor agregado a los puntajes de riesgo clásicos. Material y métodos: Se analizaron los pacientes con diagnóstico de IAMCEST del Registro Multicéntrico SCAR (Síndromes Coronarios Agudos en Argentina). El punto final analizado fue la muerte o Killip Kimball 3-4 (KK 3-4) en el período hospitalario. Se analizó el ILG tanto como variable continua como en cuartiles según los valores de los percentiles 25, 50 y 75. Resultados: Se analizaron 405 de 476 pacientes con diagnóstico final de IAMCEST. La presencia del punto final fue significativamente creciente por cuartiles de ILG: 0%, 7,60%, 9,30% y 30,60% (p < 0,0001). El área bajo la curva ROC del ILG para el punto final combinado fue de 0,77 [(IC 95% 0,71-0,88); p = 0,0001]; el mejor valor de corte pronóstico fue de 1.000. La presencia de muerte o KK 3-4 fue del 0% y del 13% en los IAMCEST con ILG menor o mayor de 1.000, respectivamente. En un modelo de regresión logística multivariado, el ILG se asoció independientemente con muerte o KK 3-4. El área bajo la curva ROC del puntaje TIMI para IAMCEST fue de 0,58. El agregado del ILG incrementó su capacidad discriminatoria a 0,66 (p = 0,001). Conclusiones: El ILG demostró que es un predictor independiente de mala evolución en el IAMCEST (muerte o KK 3-4), con valor aditivo al puntaje TIMI.

Background: Leukocytosis and hyperglycemia correlate with worse short-term prognosis in patients with acute coronary syndrome, but their new relationship, called leuko-glycemic index (LGI), has been scarcely evaluated. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the prognostic value of LGI in patients with ST-segment-elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) and its added value to classical risk scores. Methods: Patients diagnosed with STEMI from the SCAR (Acute Coronary Syndromes in Argentina) Multicenter Registry were analyzed. The final endpoint was death or in-hospital Killip-Kimball 3-4 (KK 3-4). The LGI was analyzed as a continu-ous variable and in quartiles according to 25, 50 and 75 percentile values. Results: The study evaluated 405 out of 476 patients with final STEMI diagnosis. Presence of the primary endpoint significantly increased per LGI quartile: 0%, 7.60%, 9.30% and 30.60% (p < 0.0001). The LGI area under the ROC curve for the composite endpoint was 0.77 [(95% CI 0.71-0.88); p = 0.0001]; the best prognostic cut-off value was 1000. Presence of death or KK 3-4 was 0% and 13% in STEMI patients with LGI below or above 1000, respectively In a multivariate logistic regression model, LGI was independently associated with death or KK 3-4. The area under the ROC curve of the TIMI risk score for STEMI was 0.58. The addition of LGI increased its discriminatory capacity to 0.66 (p = 0.001). Conclusions: The LGI was an independent predictor of adverse outcome in STEMI patients (death or KK 3-4), adding prognostic value to the TIMI risk score.