Preoperative coronary interventions for preventing acute myocardial infarction in the perioperative period of major open vascular or endovascular surgery.

BACKGROUND: Postoperative myocardial infarction (POMI) is associated with major surgeries and remains the leading cause of mortality and morbidity in people undergoing vascular surgery, with an incidence rate ranging from 5% to 20%. Preoperative coronary interventions, such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) or percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), may help prevent acute myocardial infarction in the perioperative period of major vascular surgery when used in addition to routine perioperative drugs (e.g. statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and antiplatelet agents), CABG by creating new blood circulation routes that bypass the blockages in the coronary vessels, and PCI by opening up blocked blood vessels. There is currently uncertainty around the benefits and harms of preoperative coronary interventions. OBJECTIVES: To assess the effects of preoperative coronary interventions for preventing acute myocardial infarction in the perioperative period of major open vascular or endovascular surgery. SEARCH METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Vascular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE Ovid, Embase Ovid, LILACS, and CINAHL EBSCO on 13 March 2023. We also searched the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and ClinicalTrials.gov. SELECTION CRITERIA: We included all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs that compared the use of preoperative coronary interventions plus usual care versus usual care for preventing acute myocardial infarction during major open vascular or endovascular surgery. We included participants of any sex or any age undergoing major open vascular surgery, major endovascular surgery, or hybrid vascular surgery. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes of interest were acute myocardial infarction, all-cause mortality, and adverse events resulting from preoperative coronary interventions. Our secondary outcomes were cardiovascular mortality, quality of life, vessel or graft secondary patency, and length of hospital stay. We reported perioperative and long-term outcomes (more than 30 days after intervention). We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. MAIN RESULTS: We included three RCTs (1144 participants). Participants were randomised to receive either preoperative coronary revascularisation with PCI or CABG plus usual care or only usual care before major vascular surgery. One trial enrolled participants if they had no apparent evidence of coronary artery disease. Another trial selected participants classified as high risk for coronary disease through preoperative clinical and laboratorial testing. We excluded one trial from the meta-analysis because participants from both the control and the intervention groups were eligible to undergo preoperative coronary revascularisation. We identified a high risk of performance bias in all included trials, with one trial displaying a high risk of other bias. However, the risk of bias was either low or unclear in other domains. We observed no difference between groups for perioperative acute myocardial infarction, but the evidence is very uncertain (risk ratio (RR) 0.28, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.02 to 4.57; 2 trials, 888 participants; very low-certainty evidence). One trial showed a reduction in incidence of long-term (> 30 days) acute myocardial infarction in participants allocated to the preoperative coronary interventions plus usual care group, but the evidence was very uncertain (RR 0.09, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.28; 1 trial, 426 participants; very low-certainty evidence). There was little to no effect on all-cause mortality in the perioperative period when comparing the preoperative coronary intervention plus usual care group to usual care alone, but the evidence is very uncertain (RR 0.79, 95% CI 0.31 to 2.04; 2 trials, 888 participants; very low-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of preoperative coronary interventions on long-term (follow up: 2.7 to 6.2 years) all-cause mortality (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.30 to 1.80; 2 trials, 888 participants; very low-certainty evidence). One study reported no adverse effects related to coronary angiography, whereas the other two studies reported five deaths due to revascularisations. There may be no effect on cardiovascular mortality when comparing preoperative coronary revascularisation plus usual care to usual care in the short term (RR 0.07, 95% CI 0.00 to 1.32; 1 trial, 426 participants; low-certainty evidence). Preoperative coronary interventions plus usual care in the short term may reduce length of hospital stay slightly when compared to usual care alone (mean difference -1.17 days, 95% CI -2.05 to -0.28; 1 trial, 462 participants; low-certainty evidence). We downgraded the certainty of the evidence due to concerns about risk of bias, imprecision, and inconsistency. None of the included trials reported on quality of life or vessel graft patency at either time point, and no study reported on adverse effects, cardiovascular mortality, or length of hospital stay at long-term follow-up. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Preoperative coronary interventions plus usual care may have little or no effect on preventing perioperative acute myocardial infarction and reducing perioperative all-cause mortality compared to usual care, but the evidence is very uncertain. Similarly, limited, very low-certainty evidence shows that preoperative coronary interventions may have little or no effect on reducing long-term all-cause mortality. There is very low-certainty evidence that preoperative coronary interventions plus usual care may prevent long-term myocardial infarction, and low-certainty evidence that they may reduce length of hospital stay slightly, but not cardiovascular mortality in the short term, when compared to usual care alone. Adverse effects of preoperative coronary interventions were poorly reported in trials. Quality of life and vessel or graft patency were not reported. We downgraded the certainty of the evidence most frequently for high risk of bias, inconsistency, or imprecision. None of the analysed trials provided significant data on subgroups of patients who could potentially experience more substantial benefits from preoperative coronary intervention (e.g. altered ventricular ejection fraction). There is a need for evidence from larger and homogeneous RCTs to provide adequate statistical power to assess the role of preoperative coronary interventions for preventing acute myocardial infarction in the perioperative period of major open vascular or endovascular surgery.

Guide catheter extension use are associated with higher procedural success in chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary interventions.

BACKGROUND: Guide catheter extensions (GCEs) increase support and facilitate equipment delivery, but aggressive instrumentation may be associated with a higher risk of complications. AIM: Our aim was to assess the impact of GCEs on procedural success and complications in patients submitted to chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). METHODS: We analyzed data from the multicenter LATAM CTO Registry. Procedural success was defined as <30% residual stenosis and TIMI 3 distal flow. Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) was defined as the composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularization, and stroke. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to compare outcomes with and without GCE use. RESULTS: From August 2010 to August 2021, 3049 patients were included. GCEs were used in 438 patients (14.5%). In unadjusted analysis, patients in the GCE group were older and had more comorbidities. The median J-CTO score and its components were higher in the GCE group. After PSM, procedural success was higher with GCE use (87.7% vs. 80.5%, p = 0.007). The incidence of coronary perforation (odds ratio [OR]: 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.78-2.71, p = 0.230), bleeding (OR: 1.99, 95% CI: 0.41-2.41, p = 0.986), in-hospital death (OR: 1.39, 95% CI: 0.54-3.62, p = 0.495) and MACCE (OR: 1.07, 95% CI: 0.52-2.19, p = 0.850) were similar in both groups. CONCLUSION: In a contemporary, multicenter cohort of patients undergoing CTO PCI, GCEs were used in older patients, with more comorbidities and complex anatomy. After PSM, GCE use was associated with higher procedural success, and similar incidence of adverse outcomes.

Long-Term Outcomes of Pharmacoinvasive Strategy Versus Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: A Study from Mexico City.

Although primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) is the treatment of choice in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), challenges may arise in accessing this intervention for certain geodemographic groups. Pharmacoinvasive strategy (PIs) has demonstrated comparable outcomes when delays in pPCI are anticipated, but real-world data on long-term outcomes are limited. The aim of the present study was to compare long-term outcomes among real-world patients with STEMI who underwent either PIs or pPCI. This was a prospective registry including patients with STEMI who received reperfusion during the first 12 hours from symptom onset. The primary objective was cardiovascular mortality at 12 months according to the reperfusion strategy (pPCI vs PIs) and major cardiovascular events (cardiogenic shock, recurrent myocardial infarction, and congestive heart failure), and Bleeding Academic Research Consortium type 3 to 5 bleeding events were also evaluated. A total of 799 patients with STEMI were included; 49.1% underwent pPCI and 50.9% received PIs. Patients in the PIs group presented with more heart failure on admission (Killip-Kimbal >I 48.1 vs 39.7, p = 0.02) and had a lower proportion of pre-existing heart failure (0.2% vs 1.8%, p = 0.02) and atrial fibrillation (0.25% vs 1.2%, p = 0.02). No statistically significant difference was observed in cardiovascular mortality at the 12-month follow-up (hazard ratio for PIs 0.74, 95% confidence interval 0.42 to 1.30, log-rank p = 0.30) according to the reperfusion strategy used. The composite of major cardiovascular events (hazard ratio for PIs 0.98, 95% confidence interval 0.75 to 1.29, p = 0.92) and Bleeding Academic Research Consortium type 3 to 5 bleeding rates were also comparable. A low socioeconomic status, Killip-Kimball >2, age >60 years, and admission creatinine >2.0 mg/100 ml were predictors of the composite end point after multivariate analysis. In conclusion, this prospective real-world registry provides additional support that long-term major cardiovascular outcomes and bleeding are not different between patients who underwent PIs versus primary PCI.

Effect of sevoflurane on serum CK-MB levels after percutaneous coronary stent placement: A prospective randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES: Markers of myocardial injury, such as creatine kinase-myocardial band (CK-MB) mass, are elevated in up to 30% of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with stent deployment. This elevation represents myocardial injury that can impact the patient in the long term, including the risk of death. Sevoflurane, an inhaled anesthetic, may have cardioprotective properties that benefit patients undergoing PCI. The primary objective was to compare serum CK-MB mass raise in patients who received sevoflurane to those who received a placebo prior to PCI. METHODS: We enrolled patients with coronary artery disease who were eligible for PCI in a randomized (1:1), double-blind, placebo-controlled trial; patients having experienced acute myocardial infarction within 72 hours and those with saphenous vein graft stenting were excluded. Patients (n = 1254) were randomized to receive sevoflurane (2% inspired fraction) or placebo (oxygen alone) for 30 minutes prior to PCI. Additionally, we compared substantial elevations in CK-MB mass (defined as >5x the upper limit of normal), length of stay in the intensive care unit and in-hospital, and 1-year mortality. RESULTS: Sevoflurane was unable to promote cardioprotection, as determined by CK-MB mass levels (sevoflurane group: 2.52 ± 9.64; control group: 1.84 ± 8.58; P=.32). No effect was noticed on the reduction among patients who (AQ: with?) increase (AQ: increased?) marker levels (prevalence of increase in CK-MB mass greater than the upper limit of normality was 30.8% in the sevoflurane group and 28.9% in the control group; P=.33; 4.6% vs 3.1%, respectively, for increases 5x above the upper limit of normality [P=.21]). CONCLUSIONS: Sevoflurane failed to reduce myocardial injury after PCI. Therefore, its usage should not be routinely recommended.

Bivalirudin vs heparin in cardiac-cerebral ischemic and bleeding events among Chinese STEMI patients during percutaneous coronary intervention: a retrospective cohort study.

Although bivalirudin has been recently made available for purchase in China, large-scale analyses on the safety profile of bivalirudin among Chinese patients is lacking. Thus, this study aimed to compare the safety profile of bivalirudin and heparin as anticoagulants in Chinese ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). A total of 1063 STEMI patients undergoing PCI and receiving bivalirudin (n=424, bivalirudin group) or heparin (n=639, heparin group) as anticoagulants were retrospectively enrolled. The net adverse clinical events (NACEs) within 30 days after PCI were recorded, including major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCEs) and bleeding events (bleeding academic research consortium (BARC) grades 2-5 (BARC 2-5)). The incidences of NACEs (10.1 vs 15.6%) (P=0.010), BARC 2-5 bleeding events (5.2 vs 10.3%) (P=0.003), and BARC grades 3-5 (BARC 3-5) bleeding events (2.1 vs 5.5%) (P=0.007) were lower in the bivalirudin group compared to the heparin group, whereas general MACCEs incidence (8.9 vs 6.4%) (P=0.131) and each category of MACCEs (all P>0.05) did not differ between two groups. Furthermore, the multivariate logistic analyses showed that bivalirudin (vs heparin) was independently correlated with lower risk of NACEs (OR=0.508, P=0.002), BARC 2-5 bleeding events (OR=0.403, P=0.001), and BARC 3-5 bleeding events (OR=0.452, P=0.042); other independent risk factors for NACEs, MACCEs, or BARC bleeding events included history of diabetes mellitus, emergency operation, multiple lesional vessels, stent length >33.0 mm, and higher CRUSADE score (all P<0.05). Thus, bivalirudin presented a better safety profile than heparin among Chinese STEMI patients undergoing PCI.

[Coronary lithotripsy in calcified lesions: fragmented calcium]. / Litotricia coronaria en lesiones calcificadas: fragmentando el calcio.

Background: Complex calcified coronary lesions are a frequent finding during percutaneous coronary intervention, representing for decades a challenge and limitation in patients with indication of revascularization, due to suboptimal angiographic results, high incidence of perioperative complications and long-term adverse events despite the multiple strategies employed, such as the use of cutting balloon, high-pressure balloons or rotational or orbital atherectomy, interventions with limitations that have hindered its routine use, recently a new plaque modification technique known as coronary intravascular lithotripsy has burst into the treatment of this complex entity, which consists in the use of a specially modified balloon for the emission of pulsatile mechanical energy (sonic pressure waves) that allows modifying the calcified plate. Clinical case: By presenting a series of clinical cases and reviewing the literature, our initial experience is presented, key elements are summarized and discussed in the understanding of this new intervention technique necessary for decision making. Conclusion: Coronary intravascular lithotripsy is projected as a promising technique for the modification and preparation of superficial and deep calcified coronary lesions, through microfractures that allow the apposition and effective expansion of the stent, strategy that according to different trials (Disrupt CAD series, SOLSTICE assay) and records presents a high efficiency and good safety profile, data consistent with our initial experience.

Introducción: las lesiones coronarias calcificadas complejas son un hallazgo frecuente durante el intervencionismo coronario percutáneo, han representado durante décadas un desafío y limitante en pacientes con indicación de revascularización, debido a resultados angiográficos subóptimos, alta incidencia de complicaciones perioperatorias y eventos adversos a largo plazo a pesar de las múltiples estrategias empleadas, como el uso de balones de corte, balones de alta presión o la aterectomía rotacional u orbital, intervenciones con limitantes que han dificultado su uso rutinario. Recientemente, una nueva técnica de modificación de placa conocida como litotricia intravascular coronaria ha irrumpido en el tratamiento de esta compleja entidad, la cual consiste en la utilización de un balón especialmente modificado para la emisión de energía mecánica pulsátil (ondas de presión sónicas) que permite modificar la placa calcificada. Caso clínico: mediante la presentación de una serie de casos clínico y revisión de literatura se presenta nuestra experiencia inicial, se resume y discuten elementos claves en el entendimiento de esta nueva técnica de intervencionismo necesarios para la toma de decisiones. Conclusión: la litotricia intravascular coronaria se proyecta como una técnica prometedora para la modificación y preparación de lesiones coronarias calcificadas superficiales y profundas, mediante microfracturas que permiten la aposición y expansión efectiva del stent; estrategia que de acuerdo con diferentes ensayos (serie Disrupt CAD, ensayo SOLSTICE) y registros presenta una eficacia alta y buen perfil de seguridad, datos concordantes con nuestra experiencia inicial.

Predictive values of bilirubin for in-hospital adverse events in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction after primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

PURPOSE: To investigate the association between serum bilirubin levels and in-hospital Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE) in patients with ST-segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI). METHODS: A total of 418 patients with STEMI who underwent primary PCI were enrolled from October 1st, 2021 to October 31st 2022. The average age of enrolled participants was 59.23 years, and 328 patients (78.50%) were male patients. Patients were divided into MACE (patients with angina pectoris after infarction, recurrent myocardial infarction, acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock, malignant arrhythmias, or death after primary PCI) (n = 98) and non-MACE (n = 320) groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate the association between different bilirubin levels including Total Bilirubin (TB), Direct Bilirubin (DB), Indirect Bilirubin (IDB), and risk of in-hospital MACE. The area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the accuracy of bilirubin levels in predicting in-hospital MACE. RESULTS: The incidence of MACE in STEMI patients increased from the lowest to the highest bilirubin tertiles. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that increased total bilirubin level was an independent predictor of in-hospital MACE in patients with STEMI (p for trend = 0.02). Compared to the first TB group, the ORs for risk of MACE were 1.58 (95% CI 0.77‒3.26) and 2.28 (95% CI 1.13‒4.59) in the second and third TB groups, respectively. The ROC curve analysis showed that the areas under the curve for TB, DB and IDB in predicting in-hospital MACE were 0.642 (95% CI 0.578‒0.705, p < 0.001), 0.676 (95% CI 0.614‒0.738, p < 0.001), and 0.619 (95% CI 0.554‒0.683, p < 0.001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The current study showed that elevated TB, DB, and IDB levels are independent predictors of in-hospital MACE in patients with STEMI after primary PCI, and that DB has a better predictive value than TB and IDB.

Clinical value of combined plasma brain natriuretic peptide and serum cystatin C measurement on the prediction of heart failure in patients after acute myocardial infarction.

This research investigated the predictive value of combined detection of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and cystatin C (Cys C) in heart failure after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Sixty-five AMI patients complicated by heart failure (HF) after PCI and 79 non-heart failure (non-HF) patients were involved in this research. The levels of Cys C and BNP were measured. Risk factors for heart failure in AMI patients after PCI were analyzed by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Efficacy of BNP and Cys C on predicting heart failure were analyzed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Cys C and BNP levels were significantly higher in the HF group than in the non-HF group. BNP and Cys C levels were the independent influencing factors causing heart failure within one year after PCI. The area under the predicted curve (AUC) of Cys C, BNP, and combined Cys C and BNP were 0.763, 0.829, and 0.893, respectively. The combined detection of Cys C and BNP was highly valuable in predicting heart failure in AMI patients after PCI, which can be regarded as the serum markers for diagnosis and treatment of heart failure.

The ISCHEMIA trial revisited: setting the record straight on the benefits of coronary bypass surgery and the misinterpretation of a landmark trial.

OBJECTIVES: The ISCHEMIA trial is a landmark study that has been the subject of heated debate within the cardiovascular community. In this analysis of the ISCHEMIA trial, we aim to set the record straight on the benefits of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and the misinterpretation of this landmark trial. We sought to clarify and reorient this misinterpretation. METHODS: We herein analyse the ISCHEMIA trial in detail and describe how its misinterpretation has led to an erroneous guideline recommendation downgrading for prognosis-altering surgical therapy in these at-risk patients. RESULTS: The interim ISCHEMIA trial findings align with previous evidence where CABG reduces the long-term risks of myocardial infarction and mortality in advanced coronary artery disease. The trial outcomes of a significantly lower rate of cardiovascular mortality and a higher rate of non-cardiovascular mortality with the invasive strategy are explained according to landmark evidence. CONCLUSIONS: The ISCHEMIA trial findings are aligned with previous evidence and should not be used to downgrade recommendations in recent guidelines for the indisputable benefits of CABG.

Metrics of care and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction treated with pharmacoinvasive strategy: a decade-long network in a populous city in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Pharmacoinvasive strategy is an effective myocardial reperfusion therapy when primary percutaneous coronary intervention (p-PCI) cannot be performed in a timely manner. METHODS: Authors sought to evaluate metrics of care and cardiovascular outcomes in a decade-long registry of a pharmacoinvasive strategy network for the treatment of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Data from a local network including patients undergoing fibrinolysis in county hospitals and systematically transferred to the tertiary center were accessed from March 2010 to September 2020. Numerical variables were described as median and interquartile range. Area under the curve (AUC-ROC) was used to analyze the predictive value of TIMI and GRACE scores for in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: A total of 2,710 consecutive STEMI patients aged 59 [51-66] years, 815 women (30.1%) and 837 individuals with diabetes (30.9%) were analyzed. The time from symptom onset to first-medical-contact was 120 [60-210] minutes and the door-to-needle time was 70 [43-115] minutes. Rescue-PCI was required in 929 patients (34.3%), in whom the fibrinolytic-catheterization time was 7.2 [4.9-11.8] hours, compared to 15.7 [6.8-22,7] hours in those who had successful lytic reperfusion. All cause in-hospital mortality occurred in 151 (5.6%) patients, reinfarction in 47 (1.7%) and ischemic stroke in 33 (1.2%). Major bleeding occurred in 73 (2.7%) patients, including 19 (0.7%) cases of intracranial bleeding. C-statistic confirmed that both scores had high predictive values for in-hospital mortality, demonstrated by TIMI AUC-ROC of 0.80 [0,77-0.84] and GRACE AUC-ROC of 0.86 [0.83-0.89]. CONCLUSION: In a real world registry of a decade-long network for the treatment of ST-elevation myocardial infarction based on the pharmacoinvasive strategy, low rates of in-hospital mortality and cardiovascular outcomes were observed, despite prolonged time metrics for both fibrinolytic therapy and rescue-PCI. Register Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02090712 date of first registration 18/03/2014.

P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy versus dual antiplatelet therapy in patients with acute coronary syndromes undergoing coronary stenting: rationale and design of the NEOMINDSET Trial.

Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is currently the standard of care after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Recent studies suggest that reducing DAPT to 1-3 months followed by an aspirin-free single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) strategy with a potent P2Y12 inhibitor is safe and associated with less bleeding. However, to date, no randomised trial has tested the impact of initiating SAPT immediately after PCI, particularly in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). NEOMINDSET is a multicentre, randomised, open-label trial with a blinded outcome assessment designed to compare SAPT versus DAPT in 3,400 ACS patients undergoing PCI with the latest-generation drug-eluting stents (DES). After successful PCI and up to 4 days following hospital admission, patients are randomised to receive SAPT with a potent P2Y12 inhibitor (ticagrelor or prasugrel) or DAPT (aspirin plus a potent P2Y12 inhibitor) for 12 months. Aspirin is discontinued immediately after randomisation in the SAPT group. The choice between ticagrelor and prasugrel is at the investigator's discretion. The primary hypothesis is that SAPT will be non-inferior to DAPT with respect to the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, stroke, myocardial infarction or urgent target vessel revascularisation, but superior to DAPT on rates of bleeding defined by Bleeding Academic Research Consortium 2, 3 or 5 criteria. NEOMINDSET is the first study that is specifically designed to test SAPT versus DAPT immediately following PCI with DES in ACS patients. This trial will provide important insights on the efficacy and safety of withdrawing aspirin in the early phase of ACS. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04360720).

Sex Differences in Outcomes of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Submitted to Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention. / Diferenças entre os Sexos nos Desfechos de Pacientes com Infarto do Miocárdio com Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST Submetidos à Intervenção Coronária Percutânea Primária.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have shown that women are usually undertreated and have worse outcomes after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), hence the need to investigate questions related to sex in Brazil to better deal with the problem. OBJECTIVE: To determine whether female sex is still associated with adverse events in a contemporary cohort of patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study of STEMI patients submitted to pPCI in a tertiary university hospital between March 2011 and December 2021. Patients were categorized into groups based on their sex at birth. The primary clinical outcome was long-term MACCE. Patients were followed-up for up to five years. All hypothesis tests had a two-sided significance level of 0.05. RESULTS: Among 1457 patients admitted with STEMI in the study period, 1362 were included and 468 (34.4%) were women. Female patients had a higher prevalence of hypertension (73% vs. 60%, p <0.001), diabetes (32% vs. 25%, p=0.003) and Killip class 3-4 at hospital admission (17% vs. 12%, p=0.01); TIMI risk score was higher among women (4 [2, 6] vs. 3 [2, 5], p<0.001). In-hospital mortality was not different between groups (12.8% vs. 10.5%, p=0.20). In-hospital MACCE (16.0% vs. 12.6%, p=0.085) and long-term MACCE (28.7% vs. 24.4%, p=0.089) were numerically higher in women, with borderline significance. After multivariate analysis, female sex was not associated with MACCE (HR = 1.14; 95% CI 0.86 - 1.51; p = 0.36). CONCLUSION: In a prospective cohort of STEMI patients submitted to pPCI, female patients were older and had more comorbidities at baseline, but no significant differences were found in terms of long-term adverse outcomes.

FUNDAMENTO: Vários estudos têm mostrado que as mulheres não recebem tratamento adequado e apresentam piores desfechos após infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMCSST). Por isso, é necessário investigar questões relacionadas ao gênero para melhor lidar com esse problema no Brasil. OBJETIVO: Determinar se existe associação entre o sexo feminino e eventos adversos em uma coorte contemporânea de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea primária (ICPp). MÉTODOS: Este foi um estudo prospectivo do tipo coorte de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICPp em um hospital universitário terciário entre março de 2011 e dezembro de 2021. Os pacientes foram categorizados em grupos de acordo com o sexo ao nascimento. O primeiro desfecho clínico foi ECAM em longo prazo. Os pacientes foram acompanhados por um período máximo de cinco anos. Um nível de significância bilateral de 0,05 foi aplicado em todos os testes de hipóteses. RESULTADOS: Entre os 1457 pacientes internados por IAMCSST no período do estudo, 1362 foram incluídos e 468 (34,4%) eram do sexo feminino. As mulheres apresentaram maior prevalência de hipertensão (73% vs. 60%, p<0,001), diabetes (32% vs. 25%, p=0,003) e classe Killip 3-4 na internação (17% vs. 12%, p=0,01); o escore de risco TIMI foi maior nas mulheres [4 (2, 6) vs. 3 (2, 5), p<0.001]. A mortalidade hospitalar não foi diferente entre os grupos (12,8% vs. 10,5%; p=0,20). Os ECAMs foram numericamente maiores nas mulheres que nos homens tanto durante a internação (16,0% vs. 12,6%, p=0,085) como em longo prazo (28,7% vs. 24,4%, p=0,089), com significância limítrofe. Após a análise multivariada, o sexo feminino não foi associado a ECAMs (HR = 1,14; IC95% 0,86 ­ 1,51; p = 0,36). CONCLUSÃO: Em uma coorte prospectiva contemporânea de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICPp, pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram idade mais avançada e mais comorbidades no basal que os pacientes do sexo masculino, mas não houve diferenças significativas entre os sexos quanto aos desfechos adversos no hospital ou em longo prazo.

Pretreatment with P2Y12 inhibitors in ST-elevation myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Pretreatment with oral P2Y12 inhibitors is a standard practice for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). However, the efficacy and safety of P2Y12 inhibitors pretreatment remain unclear. OBJECTIVES: We conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the impact of P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment on thrombotic and hemorrhagic endpoints in STEMI patients. METHODS: We searched multiple databases for studies that compared P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment with no pretreatment in STEMI patients and reported endpoints of interest. Random effects model was used for the meta-analysis. RESULTS: Our meta-analysis included 3 randomized controlled trials and 14 observational studies, comprising 70,465 patients assigned to either P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment (50,328 patients) or no pretreatment (20,137 patients). Compared to no pretreatment, P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment did not result in significant reductions in all-cause mortality (risk ratio [RR] 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.52-1.03; p = 0.07), myocardial infarction (RR 0.75; 95% CI: 0.53-1.07; p = 0.11), or major bleeding (RR 0.80; 95% CI: 0.56-1.16; p = 0.22) at 30 days. However, our subgroup analysis revealed that P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment administered in the pre-hospital setting was associated with a significant reduction in the incidence of myocardial infarction compared to no pretreatment (RR 0.73; 95% CI: 0.56-0.91; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Our analysis suggests that pretreatment with oral P2Y12 inhibitors before PCI in patients with STEMI was not associated with reduced all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, or major bleeding. However, pretreatment with P2Y12 inhibitors in the pre-hospital setting appears to be beneficial in reducing reinfarction.

Invasive Versus Conservative Management of NSTEMI Patients Aged ≥ 75 Years. / Manejo Invasivo versus Conservador de Pacientes com IAMSSST Com Idade ≥ 75 Anos.

BACKGROUND: The efficiency of invasive management in older patients (≥75 years) with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) remains ambiguous. OBJECTIVES: To assess the efficiency of invasive management in older patients with NSTEMI based on meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA). METHODS: Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCT) and observational studies were included. The primary outcomes were all-cause death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and major bleeding. Pooled odd ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Five RCTs and 22 observational studies with 1017374 patients were included. Based on RCT and TSA results, invasive management was associated with lower risks of myocardial infarction (OR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.40-0.65; I2=0%), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; OR: 0.61; 95% CI: 0.49-0.77; I2=27.0%), and revascularization (OR: 0.29; 95% CI: 0.15-0.55; I2=5.3%) compared with conservative management. Pooling results from RCTs and observational studies with multivariable adjustment showed consistently lower risks of all-cause death (OR: 0.57; 95% CI: 0.50-0.64; I2=86.4%), myocardial infarction (OR: 0.63; 95% CI: 0.56-0.71; I2=0%), stroke (OR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.51-0.69; I2=0%), and MACE (OR: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.54-0.76; I2=43.4%). The better prognosis associated with invasive management was also observed in real-world scenarios. However, for patients aged ≥85 years, invasive management may increase the risk of major bleeding (OR: 2.68; 95% CI: 1.12-6.42; I2=0%). CONCLUSIONS: Invasive management was associated with lower risks of myocardial infarction, MACE, and revascularization in older patients with NSTEMI, yet it may increase the risk of major bleeding in patients aged ≥85 years.

FUNDAMENTO: A eficiência do manejo invasivo em pacientes mais velhos (≥75 anos) com infarto do miocárdio sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMSSST) permanece ambígua. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a eficiência do tratamento invasivo em pacientes idosos com IAMSSST com base em metanálise e análise sequencial de estudo (TSA). MÉTODOS: Ensaios clínicos randomizados relevantes (ECR) e estudos observacionais foram incluídos. Os resultados primários foram morte por todas as causas, infarto do miocárdio, acidente vascular cerebral e hemorragia grave. O odd ratio agrupado (OR) e o intervalo de confiança de 95% (IC) foram calculados. P<0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. RESULTADOS: Cinco ECRs e 22 estudos observacionais com 1.017.374 pacientes foram incluídos.Com base nos resultados de ECR e TSA, o manejo invasivo foi associado a menores riscos de infarto do miocárdio (OR: 0,51; 95% IC: 0,40-0,65; I2=0%), eventos cardiovasculares adversos maiores (MACE; OR: 0,61; 95% IC: 0,49-0,77; I2=27,0%) e revascularização (OR: 0,29; 95% IC: 0,15-0,55; I2=5,3%) em comparação com o tratamento conservador. A combinação de resultados de ECRs e estudos observacionais com ajuste multivariável mostrou riscos consistentemente menores de morte por todas as causas (OR: 0,57; IC 95%: 0,50-0,64; I2 = 86,4%), infarto do miocárdio (OR: 0,63; IC 95%: 0,56 -0,71; I2=0%), acidente vascular cerebral (OR: 0,59; 95% IC: 0,51-0,69; I2=0%) e MACE (OR: 0,64; 95% IC: 0,54-0,76; I2=43,4%). O melhor prognóstico associado ao manejo invasivo também foi observado em cenários do mundo real. No entanto, para pacientes com idade ≥85 anos, o manejo invasivo pode aumentar o risco de sangramento maior (OR: 2,68; IC 95%: 1,12-6,42; I2=0%). CONCLUSÕES: O manejo invasivo foi associado a menores riscos de infarto do miocárdio, MACE e revascularização em pacientes idosos com IAMSSST,no entanto, pode aumentar o risco de sangramento maior em pacientes com idade ≥85 anos.

Secondary Pharmacological Prevention of Coronary Artery Disease among Patients Submitted to Clinical Management, Percutaneous Coronary Intervention, or Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery. / Prevenção Farmacológica Secundária da Doença Arterial Coronariana em Pacientes Submetidos ao Manejo Clínico, Intervenção Coronária Percutânea ou Cirurgia de Revascularização Miocárdica.

BACKGROUND: Secondary prevention is recommended for patients with evidence of coronary artery disease (CAD) regardless of the indication for treatment by coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated whether clinical treatment, PCI or CABG had an influence on adherence to the pharmacological secondary prevention in patients with stable CAD. METHODS: This cohort included patients aged ≥40 years with stable CAD confirmed by coronary angiography. The decision for medical treatment alone, or additionally with PCI or CABG, was made by the attending physicians. Adherence to the prescribed drugs recommended by the guidelines for secondary prevention (optimal pharmacological treatment), including antiplatelet agents, lipid-lowering drugs, beta-blockers, and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockers, was assessed at follow-up. Differences were considered significant for p values <0.05. RESULTS: From 928 patients enrolled at baseline, 415 had mild CAD and 66 moderate to severe CAD. The average follow-up was 5.2 ± 1.5 years. Patients submitted to CABG were more likely to receive the optimal pharmacological treatment than those submitted to PCI or treated clinically (63.5% versus 39.1% versus 45.7% respectively, p=0.003). Baseline factors independently associated with greater probability of having a prescription of optimal treatment at follow-up were CABG [39% higher (6% - 83%, p=0.017) and diabetes [25% higher (1% - 56%), p=0.042] than their counterparts treated by other methods and participants without diabetes, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with CAD submitted to CABG are more commonly treated with optimal pharmacological secondary prevention than patients treated by PCI or exclusively with medical therapy.

FUNDAMENTO: A prevenção secundária é recomendada a pacientes com evidência de doença arterial coronariana (DAC) independentemente da indicação de tratamento por cirurgia de bypass da artéria coronária (CABG) ou intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP). OBJETIVOS: Este estudo avaliou se o tratamento clínico, a ICP ou o CABG teve influência na adesão à prevenção secundária farmacológica em pacientes com DAC estável. MÉTODOS: Esta coorte incluiu pacientes com idade ≥40 anos com DAC estável confirmada por angiografia coronária estável. A decisão por tratamento clínico isolado, ou combinado com ICP ou CABG foi feita por médicos assistentes. A adesão às drogas prescritas recomendadas pelas diretrizes de prevenção secundária (tratamento farmacológico ótimo), incluindo agentes antiplaquetários, drogas hipolipemianetes, betabloqueadores, e bloqueadores do sistema angiotensina aldosterona, foi avaliada no acompanhamento. Diferenças com valores de p < 0,05 foram consideradas estatisticamente significativas. RESULTADOS: Dos 928 pacientes incluídos inicialmente, 415 apresentaram DAC leve e 66 apresentaram DAC leve a moderada. O período médio de seguimento foi 5,2 ± 1,5 anos. Os pacientes submetidos ao CABG apresentaram maior probabilidade de receberem tratamento farmacológico ótimo que aqueles submetidos à ICP ou tratamento clínico (63,5% versus 39,1% versus 45,7% respectivamente, p=0,003). Fatores basais independentemente associados com maior probabilidade de prescrição de tratamento ótimo foram CABG [39% maior (6% - 83%, p=0,017)] em comparação a outros tratamentos e diabetes [25% maior (1% - 56%), p=0,042] em comparação à ausência de diabetes. CONCLUSÕES: Pacientes com DAC submetidos ao CABG são mais frequentemente tratados com prevenção secundária farmacológica ótima que pacientes tratados com ICP ou exclusivamente com tratamento clínico.

Randomized Noninferiority Trial of Radiation Exposure During Coronary Angiography: the Transradial and Transfemoral Approach by EXPERienced Operators in Daily rouTine (EXPERT) Trial.

BACKGROUND: The transradial approach (TRA) to coronary angiography reduces vascular complications but is associated with greater radiation exposure than the transfemoral approach (TFA). It is unknown whether exposure remains higher when TRA is performed by experienced operators. METHODS: Patients were randomly, prospectively assigned to TRA or TFA. The primary end point was patient radiation dose; secondary end points were the physician radiation dose and 30-day major adverse cardiac event rate. Coronary angiography was performed by experienced operators using a standardized protocol. RESULTS: Clinical and procedural characteristics were similar between the TRA (n = 150) and TFA (n = 149) groups, and they had comparable mean (SD) radiation doses for patients (616.51 [252] vs 585.57 [225] mGy; P = .13) and physicians (0.49 [0.3] vs 0.46 [0.29] mSv; P = .32). The mean (SD) fluoroscopy time (3.52 [2.02] vs 3.13 [2.46] min; P = .14) and the mean (SD) dose area product (35,496.5 [15,670] vs 38,313.4 [17,764.9] mGy·cm2; P = .2) did not differ. None of the following factors predicted higher radiation doses: female sex (hazard ratio [HR], 0.69 [95% CI, 0.38-1.3]; P = .34), body mass index >25 (HR, 0.84 [95% CI, 0.43-1.6]; P = .76), age >65 years (HR, 1.67 [95% CI, 0.89-3.1]; P = .11), severe valve disease (HR, 1.37 [95% CI, 0.52-3.5]; P = .68), or previous coronary artery bypass graft (HR, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.2-1.8; P = .38). CONCLUSION: TRA for elective coronary angiography is noninferior to TFA when performed by experienced operators.

DES Strut Thickness and Clinical Outcomes After CTO Recanalization: Insights From LATAM CTO Registry.

BACKGROUND: Ultra-thin strut drug-eluting stent (UTS-DES) may improve outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) but have received limited study in chronic total occlusion (CTO) PCI. AIMS: To compare of 1-year incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) between patients who underwent CTO PCI with ultrathin (≤ 75 µm) versus thin (>75 µm) strut DES in the LATAM CTO registry. METHODS: Patients were considered for inclusion only if successful CTO PCI was performed and when only one type of stent strut thickness (ultrathin or thin) was used. A propensity score matching (PSM) was computed to produce similar groups in relation to clinical and procedural characteristics. RESULTS: Between January 2015 and January 2020, 2092 patients underwent CTO PCI, of whom 1466 were included in the present analysis (475 in the ultra-thin and 991 in the thin strut DES). In unadjusted analysis the UTS-DES group had lower rate of MACE (HR: 0.63 95 % CI 0.42 to 0.94, p = 0.04) and repeat revascularizations (HR: 0.50 95 % CI 0.31 to 0.81, p = 0.02) at 1-year follow-up. After adjustment for confounding factors in a Cox regression model there was no difference in 1-year incidence of MACE between groups (HR: 1.15 95 % CI 0.41 to 2.97, p = 0.85). On PSM of 686 patients (343 in each group) the 1-year incidence of MACE (HR 0.68 95 % CI 0.37-1.23; P = 0.22) and individual components of MACE did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS: One-year clinical outcomes after CTO PCI were similar with ultrathin and thin strut DES.

Non-reperfused ST-elevation myocardial infarction: notions from a low-to-middle-income country.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to analyze the differences between survivors and non-survivors with non-reperfused ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and to identify the predictors of in-hospital mortality. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study included non-reperfused STEMI patients from October 2005 to August 2020. Patients were classified into survivors and non-survivors. We compared patient characteristics, treatments, and outcomes among the groups and identified factors associated with in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: We included 2442 patients with non-reperfused STEMI and we found a mortality of 12.7% versus 7.2% in reperfused STEMI. The main reason for non-reperfusion was delayed presentation (96.1%). Non-survivors were older, more often women, and had diabetes, hypertension, or atrial fibrillation. The left main coronary disease was more frequent in non-survivors as well as three-vessel disease. Non-survivors developed more in-hospital heart failure, reinfarction, atrioventricular block, bleeding, stroke, and death. The main predictors for in-hospital mortality were renal dysfunction (HR 3.41), systolic blood pressure < 100 mmHg (HR 2.26), and left ventricle ejection fraction < 40% (HR 1.97). CONCLUSION: Mortality and adverse outcomes occur more frequently in non-reperfused STEMI. Non-survivors tend to be older, with more comorbidities, and have more adverse in-hospital outcomes.

OBJETIVO: Analizar las diferencias entre los sobrevivientes y no sobrevivientes con infarto agudo de miocardio no reperfundido y conocer los predictores de mortalidad intrahospitalaria. MÉTODOS: Estudio de cohorte retrospectiva que incluyó pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio no reperfundido de octubre de 2005 a agosto de 2020. Se clasificaron los pacientes de acuerdo a su estado de sobrevida y se compararon las características clínicas, tratamientos y desenlaces para poder identificar los predictores de mortalidad intrahospitalaria. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 2442 pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio no reperfundido, en los que se encontró una mortalidad de 12.7% vs 7.2% los que si recibieron tratamiento de reperfusión. La principal razón para no recibir tratamiento de reperfusión fue el retraso en la atención médica (96.1%). Los no sobrevivientes tuvieron mayor edad, fueron mujeres y tuvieron mayor frecuencia de diabetes, hipertensión y fibrilación atrial. El tronco de la coronaria izquierda y la enfermedad trivascular fueron más frecuentes en los que no sobrevivieron. Los pacientes que no sobrevivieron desarrollaron más insuficiencia cardiaca, reinfarto, bloqueo atrioventricular, sangrados, evento vascular cerebral y muerte. Los principales predictores de mortalidad intrahospitalaria fueron: insuficiencia renal (HR 3.41), tensión arterial sistólica al ingreso < 100 mmHg (HR 2.26) y fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo < 40% (HR 1.97). CONCLUSIONES: Los pacientes con infarto de miocardio no reperfundido tienen mayor mortalidad y desenlaces adversos. Los no sobrevivientes fueron mayores, con más comorbilidades y desarrollaron más desenlaces adversos intrahospitalarios.

Evaluation of Coronary Flow Level with Mots-C in Patients with STEMI Undergoing Primary PCI. / Avaliação do Nível de Fluxo Coronário com MOTS-C em Pacientes com IAMCSST Submetidos à ICP Primária.

BACKGROUND: The protective effects of mitochondrial open reading frame of the 12S rRNA-c (MOTS-C) on cardiovascular diseases have been shown in numerous studies. However, there is little documentation of the relationship between MOTS-C and coronary blood flow in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). OBJECTIVE: We aimed to investigate the role of MOTS-C, which is known to have cytoprotective properties in the pathogenesis of the no-reflow phenomenon, by comparing the coronary flow rate and MOTS-C levels in patients with STEMI submitted to primary PCI. METHODS: 52 patients with STEMI and 42 patients without stenosis >50% in the coronary arteries were included in the study. The STEMI group was divided into two groups according to post-PCI TIMI (Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction) flow grade:(i) No-reflow: grade 0, 1, and 2 and (ii) grade 3(angiographic success). A p value of <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: MOTS-C levels were significantly lower in the STEMI group compared to the control group (91.9 ± 8.9 pg/mL vs. 171.8±12.5 pg/mL, p<0.001). In addition, the Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) curve analysis indicated that serum MOTS-C levels had a diagnostic value in predicting no-reflow (Area Under the ROC curve [AUC]:0.95, 95% CI:0.856-0.993, p<0.001). A MOTS-C ≥84.15 pg/mL measured at admission was shown to have 95.3% sensitivity and 88.9% specificity in predicting no-reflow. CONCLUSION: MOTS-C is a strong and independent predictor of no-reflow and in-hospital MACE in patients with STEMI. It was also noted that low MOTS-C levels may be an important prognostic marker of and may have a role in the pathogenesis of STEMI.

FUNDAMENTOS: Os efeitos protetores da fase de leitura aberta mitocondrial do 12S rRNA-c (MOTS-C) em doenças cardiovasculares foram demonstrados em vários estudos. Entretanto, há pouca documentação da relação entre MOTS-C e fluxo sanguíneo coronariano no infarto do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMCSST). OBJETIVO: Nosso objetivo foi investigar o papel do MOTS-C, que é conhecido por ter propriedades citoprotetoras na patogênese do fenômeno de no-reflow, comparando a taxa de fluxo coronariano e os níveis de MOTS-C em pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICP primária. MÉTODOS: 52 pacientes com IAMCSST e 42 pacientes sem estenose >50% nas artérias coronárias foram incluídos no estudo. O grupo IAMCSST foi dividido em dois grupos de acordo com o grau de fluxo TIMI (do inglês Thrombolysis In Myocardial Infarction) pós-ICP: (i) No-reflow: graus 0, 1 e 2 e (ii) grau 3 (sucesso angiográfico). Um valor de p <0,05 foi considerado significante. RESULTADOS: Os níveis de MOTS-C foram significativamente menores no grupo IAMCSST em comparação ao grupo controle (91,9 ± 8,9 pg/mL vs. 171,8±12,5 pg/mL, p<0,001). Além disso, a análise da curva Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) indicou que os níveis séricos de MOTS-C tinham um valor diagnóstico na previsão de no-reflow (Área sob a curva ROC [AUC]: 0,95, IC95%: 0,856-0,993, p < 0,001). Um valor de MOTS-C ≥84,15 pg/mL medido na hospitalização mostrou ter sensibilidade de 95,3% e especificidade de 88,9% na previsão de no-reflow. CONCLUSÃO: MOTS-C é um preditor forte e independente de no-reflow e eventos cardiovasculares adversos maiores (ECAM) intra-hospitalar em pacientes com IAMCSST. Também foi observado que baixos níveis de MOTS-C podem ser um importante marcador prognóstico e podem ter um papel na patogênese do IAMCSST.

Effects of exercise on platelet reactivity after myocardial infarction: a randomized clinical trial.

Exercise training (ET) can lower platelet reactivity in patients with cardiovascular risk factors. However, the effects of ET on platelet reactivity in higher-risk patients is unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of ET on platelet reactivity in patients with recent myocardial infarction (MI). Ninety patients were randomly assigned 1 month post-MI to the intervention (patients submitted to a supervised ET program) or control group. All patients were on dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). Platelet reactivity by VerifyNow-P2Y12 (measured by P2Y12 reaction units - PRUs) test was determined at baseline and at the end of 14 ± 2 weeks of follow-up at rest (primary endpoint), and multiplate electrode aggregometry (MEA) adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and aspirin (ASPI) tests were performed immediately before and after the maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) at the same time points (secondary endpoints). Sixty-five patients (mean age 58.9 ± 10 years; 73.8% men; 60% ST elevation MI) completed follow-up (control group, n = 31; intervention group, n = 34). At the end of the follow-up, the mean platelet reactivity was 172.8 ± 68.9 PRUs and 166.9 ± 65.1 PRUs for the control and intervention groups, respectively (p = .72). Platelet reactivity was significantly increased after the CPET compared to rest at the beginning and at the end of the 14-week follow-up (among the intervention groups) by the MEA-ADP and MEA-ASPI tests (p < .01 for all analyses). In post-MI patients on DAPT, 14 weeks of supervised ET did not reduce platelet reactivity. Moreover, platelet reactivity was increased after high-intensity exercise (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02958657; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02958657).

What is the context? Platelet reactivity is reduced after exercise training in healthy individuals and patients with cardiovascular risk factors, but the effect in higher-risk patients is unknown.High-intensity exercise in untrained individuals increases platelet reactivity. The effect of dual antiplatelet therapy in inhibiting exercise-induced hyperreactivity is poorly understood.What's new?Exercise training did not reduce platelet reactivity in post-myocardial infarction patients.High-intensity exercise increased platelet reactivity in post-myocardial infarction patients on dual antiplatelet therapy.Exercise training did not attenuate the exercise-induced increase in platelet reactivity.What's the impact?The study suggests that strenuous exercise, if indicated, should be applied carefully to patients with high risk of recurrent ischemic events, even if on optimal medical therapy and after being trained.