Serial Assessment of Coronary Artery Healing of a Biodegradable Polymer Drug-Eluting Stent at 1, 2, and 3 Months by Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)-The REPAIR Trial.

BACKGROUND: Although first-generation drug-eluting stent (DES) devices have effectively achieved their main goal of reducing restenosis, their safety has been limited by suboptimal polymer biocompatibility, delayed stent endothelialization, and local drug toxicity, which ultimately prompted the development of new-generation DES options carrying biocompatible or even biodegradable polymers. AIMS: We sought to assess the vessel-healing pattern of the novel sirolimus-eluting Inspiron DES (Scitech Medical) using serial optical coherence tomography (OCT) and assuming the hypothesis that this thin-strut (75-µm), biodegradable-polymer DES promotes a faster healing, with very early strut coverage. METHODS: This is a prospective, multicenter, open-label, single-arm study enrolling 68 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention guided by OCT. These patients were consecutively assigned into 3 groups. The first group had its OCT imaging follow-up performed at 3 months, the second group at 2 months, and the third group at 1 month. RESULTS: Mean age was 59.5 years, 70.6% were male, 41.2% had type 2 diabetes, and 29.4% presented with acute coronary syndrome. A total of 72 lesions were treated and 1.06 stents were implanted per patient. OCT assessment of the stents at 1, 2, and 3 months showed a strut coverage of 90.41%, 93.96%, and 97.21%, respectively (P=.04). CONCLUSION: The Inspiron DES showed an early strut healing pattern, with >90% of the struts covered by neointima within the first month and with almost all struts covered by the third month.

Serial assessment of coronary artery healing of a biodegradable polymer drug-eluting stent at 1, 2, and 3 months by optical coherence tomography (OCT)­the REPAIR trial

BACKGROUND: Although first-generation drug-eluting stent (DES) devices have effectively achieved their main goal of reducing restenosis, their safety has been limited by suboptimal polymer biocompatibility, delayed stent endothelialization, and local drug toxicity, which ultimately prompted the development of new-generation DES options carrying biocompatible or even biodegradable polymers. Aims. We sought to assess the vessel-healing pattern of the novel sirolimus-eluting Inspiron DES (Scitech Medical) using serial optical coherence tomography (OCT) and assuming the hypothesis that this thin-strut (75-µm), biodegradable-polymer DES promotes a faster healing, with very early strut coverage. METHODS. This is a prospective, multicenter, open-label, single-arm study enrolling 68 patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention guided by OCT. These patients were consecutively assigned into 3 groups. The first group had its OCT imaging follow-up performed at 3 months, the second group at 2 months, and the third group at 1 month. RESULTS: Mean age was 59.5 years, 70.6% were male, 41.2% had type 2 diabetes, and 29.4% presented with acute coronary syndrome. A total of 72 lesions were treated and 1.06 stents were implanted per patient. OCT assessment of the stents at 1, 2, and 3 months showed a strut coverage of 90.41%, 93.96%, and 97.21%, respectively (P=.04). CONCLUSION: The Inspiron DES showed an early strut healing pattern, with >90% of the struts covered by neointima within the first month and with almost all struts covered by the third month.

Independent clinical and echocardiographic predictors of restenosis after percutaneous mitral balloon commissurotomy followed for 24 years

BACKGROUND: Mitral valve stenosis (MVS) is one of the most common structural heart diseases in developing countries, primarily due to rheumatic disease. Percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMBV) has been, since its introduction in 1984, the preferred option of treatment for such disease. However, restenosis is presented with an approximate incidence of 20%. Echocardiographic scoring of the mitral apparatus has been the main tool used to indicate and foresee the possible result of the procedure. The objective of this study was to enlight risk factors of mitral valvular restenosis in a significant number of patients submitted to percutaneous mitral balloon commissurotomy for the treatment of mitral stenosis (MS), particularly when secondary to rheumatic heart disease. METHODS: This study reports the vast experience of a single center high volume tertiary institution where 1.794 consecutive patients were treated with PMBC between 1987 and 2011. The primary endpoint was to determine the independent predictors of this untoward event, defined as loss of over 50% of the original increase in maximum valve area (MVA) or MVA< 1.5 cm2. RESULTS: Mitral valve restenosis was observed in 26% of the cases (n=483). Mean population age was 36 years old, with most patients being female (87%). Mean follow up duration was 4.8 years. At multivariate analysis independent pre-procedural predictors of restenosis were: left atrial diameter (HR: 1.03, 95% ci: 1.01-1.04, p<0.01), pre procedure maximum gradient (HR: 1.01, 95% ci: 1.00-1.03, p=0.02) and higher wilkins scores (HR: 1.37, 95% ci: 1.13-1.66, p<0.01). CONCLUSION: In the very long term follow-up, mitral valve restenosis was observed in a quarter of the population undergoing PMBC. Preprocedure echocardiographic findings, including left atrial diameter, maximum valve gradient and high Wilkins scores were found to be the only independent predictors of this deleterious event.

2016 Left ventricular diastolic function guideline have better prognostic value than 2009 guideline in patients with acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in Brazil and worldwide. In the context of diastolic dysfunction, echocardiography is the best non-invasive diagnostic method. However, the comparison of the two main guidelines for evaluate left ventricular diastolic function in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is scarce. OBJECTIVE: To compare the prognostic value of both guidelines of American Society of Echocardiography, from 2009 and 2016, in patients with ACS. METHODS: This is a sub-analysis of a prospective cohort observational study with 109 patients admitted to the emergency with ACS. The follow up was performed within 1 year and combined outcome was cardiovascular death or new heart failure. We used the non-parametric Spearman method to assess the correlation between the categories of diastolic function according to the guideline used. The Cox model and the Log rank test with Kaplan-Meier curves were used to compare the prognostic value of categorizing patients according to the guideline used. The results were expressed as hazard ratio with a confidence interval of 95%. RESULTS: The mean age was 63 years ± 11, most male patients (73.4%) and the predominant color of patients was white (60.4%). Among the main risk factors, the most frequent for coronary artery disease was dyslipidemia (78%), followed by systemic arterial hypertension (77.1%) and sedentary lifestyle (65.9%). The study identified a mean borderline ejection fraction, a high E/E' ratio, and LV diastolic and systolic volumes presented means above normal. The most common electrocardiographic change on admission was T-wave inversion (45%), and NSTEMI was the main clinical diagnosis (74%). The categories in which there was a greater disagreement between the guidelines were grade II diastolic dysfunction and normal function. The correlation between the diagnosis of diastolic dysfunction when compared to the use of the 2009 and 2016 guidelines was weak (R = 0.56 by Spearman's method; p<0.001). By the Kaplan-Meier curves, dividing the groups into with or without LA pressure elevation, the distinction between the evolution of the two groups is significant when performed by the 2016 guideline (Log Rank = 8.17; p = 0.04). CONCLUSION: The current guideline (2016) for the assessment of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction showed a higher prognostic value of combined outcome of cardiovascular death or new heart failure within one year, when compared to the guideline of 2009 in patients.

Left atrial minimum volume is better correlate of left atrial dysfunction by two-dimensional strain

BACKGROUND: The analysis of left atrial (LA) function can add important information to the understanding of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, to assess its functioning the use of volumetric measurements is adopted. The maximum LA volume is the most echocardiography parameter used, however, some studies demonstrated that minimum LA volume is better to correlate with atrial dysfunction. Purpose: The purpose of this study was compare the accuracy of the phasic volumes of the left atrium in determining LA dysfunction identified by the two-dimensional strain. METHODS: This observational, cross-sectional study admitted 109 participants with diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome non-ST-segment elevation. The exams were performed within 72 hours of admission. LA volume was defined by the mean of measurements performed in the four and two-chamber apical windows using Simpson's method. The phasic volumes of the left atrium were measured using an electrocardiogram synchronized with the device. Reservoir LA strain less than 21% was the cut off to LA dysfunction. RESULTS: The phasic LA volume variables analyzed were maximal (LAVMAX), minimal (LAVMIN) and before atrial contraction (LAVBAC) volume, and each variable indexed for body surface (LAVIMAX, LAVIMIN and LAVIBAC). Therefore, a Roc curve was generated for each volume variable to assess which would be more accurate in predicting left atrial dysfunction. The Youden index was used to determine the cutoff point for each one of them. The areas under the Roc curves were: 0.83 (LAVIMIN), 0.81 (LAVMIN), 0.78 (LAVBAC), 0.76 (LAVIMAX), 0.74 (LAVIBAC) and 0.71 (LAVMAX). CONCLUSION: This study concluded that phasic volumes were good determinants of left atrial dysfunction identified by 2D strain. The minimum left atrial volume was the better correlated with left atrial dysfunction.

Left atrial minimum volume is better correlate of left atrial dysfunction by two-dimensional strain

BACKGROUND: The analysis of left atrial (LA) function can add important information to the understanding of cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, to assess its functioning the use of volumetric measurements is adopted. The maximum LA volume is the most echocardiography parameter used, however some studies demonstrated that minimum LA volume is better to correlate with atrial dysfunction. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was compare the accuracy of the phasic volumes of the left atrium in determining LA dysfunction identified by the two-dimensional strain. METHODS: This observational, cross-sectional study admitted 109 participants with diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome non-ST-segment elevation. The exams were performed within 72 hours of admission. LA volume was defined by the mean of measurements performed in the four and two-chamber apical windows using Simpson's method. The phasic volumes of the left atrium were measured using an electrocardiogram synchronized with the device. Reservoir LA strain less than 21% was the cut off to LA dysfunction. RESULTS: The phasic LA volume variables analyzed were maximal (LAVMAX), minimal (LAVMIN) and before atrial contraction (LAVBAC) volume, and each variable indexed for body surface (LAVIMAX, LAVIMIN and LAVIBAC). Therefore, a Roc curve was generated for each volume variable to assess which would be more accurate in predicting left atrial dysfunction. The Youden index was used to determine the cutoff point for each one of them. The areas under the Roc curves were: 0.83 (LAVIMIN), 0.81 (LAVMIN), 0.78 (LAVBAC), 0.76 (LAVIMAX), 0.74 (LAVIBAC) and 0.71 (LAVMAX). CONCLUSION: This study concluded that phasic volumes were good determinants of left atrial dysfunction identified by 2D strain. The minimum left atrial volume was the better correlate with left atrial dysfunction.

Mid- to long-term clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement with a new-generation, self-expandable system.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate mid- to late clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with Acurate neo™ (Boston Scientific, Boston, MA). BACKGROUND: TAVR is an established treatment for aortic stenosis (AS). Few data exist on mid- to long-term outcomes and durability after new-generation valves. METHODS: All consecutive patients (n = 104) who underwent Acurate neo™ implantation from 2012 to 2018 were included. Follow-up was systematically performed at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months and yearly thereafter. Outcomes were reported according to VARC-2, and structural valve deterioration (SVD) or bioprosthetic valve failure defined accordingly to new definitions. RESULTS: Mean age was 82 ± 5.4 years, 56.7% were female and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons score for mortality was 5.9 ± 4%. Patients were followed for a median of 3 years (1,092 days; IQR 1.5-4 years), and the maximum follow-up was 7 years. All-cause mortality values at 1 and 5 years were 8.5% and 40.5%, respectively. No relevant changes in mean gradient and orifice area occurred (7.9 ± 3.8 mmHg and 1.9 ± 0.3 cm2 at 1 year; 6.6 ± 2.1 mmHg and 1.8 ± 0.3 cm2 at 5 years), and there was a significant rate of paravalvular leaks resolution at 1, 2, and 3 years (p = .004; p < .001; p < .001, respectively). None of the patients had leaflet thrombosis or endocarditis. One patient developed SVD at 84 months. CONCLUSIONS: Acurate neo™ was associated with sustained echocardiographic results. Reassuring mid- to long-term outcomes was observed in this cohort of elderly patients with severe AS.

Mid- to long-term clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement with a newgeneration, self-expandable system / Desfechos clínicos e ecocardiográficos de médio a longo prazo após a substituição da válvula aórtica transcateter com uma nova geração, sistema auto-expansível

Abstract Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate mid- to late clinical and echocardiographic outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) with A curate neo™ (Boston Scientific, Boston, MA). Background: TAVR is an established treatment for aortic stenosis (AS). Few data exist on mid- to long-term outcomes and durability after new-generation valves. Methods: All consecutive patients (n = 104) who underwent A curate neo™ implantation from 2012 to 2018 were included. Follow-up was systematically performed at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months and yearly thereafter. Outcomes were reported according to VARC-2, and structural valve deterioration (SVD) or bioprosthetic valve failure defined accordingly to new definitions. Results: Mean age was 82 ± 5.4 years, 56.7% were female and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons score for mortality was 5.9 ± 4%. Patients were followed for a median of 3 years (1,092 days; IQR 1.5­4 years), and the maximum follow-up was 7 years. All-cause mortality values at 1 and 5 years were 8.5% and 40.5%, respectively. No relevant changes in mean gradient and orifice area occurred (7.9 ± 3.8 mmHg and 1.9 ± 0.3 cm2 at 1 year; 6.6 ± 2.1 mmHg and 1.8 ± 0.3 cm2 at 5 years), and there was a significant rate of paravalvular leaks resolution at 1, 2, and 3 years (p = .004; p < .001; p < .001, respectively). None of the patients had leaflet thrombosis or endocarditis. One patient developed SVD at 84 months. Conclusions: A curate neo™ was associated with sustained echocardiographic results. Reassuring mid- to long-term outcomes was observed in this cohort of elderly patients with severe AS.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Predição de nefropatia induzida pelo contraste após revascularização coronária percutânea: precisamos de fórmulas? - Uma perspetiva da cardiologia / Predicting contrast-induced nephropathy after percutaneous coronary intervention: Do we need formulas? A cardiological perspective

A nefropatia induzida pelo contraste (NIC) tem figurado como um diagnóstico cada vez mais frequente no campo da cardiologia intervencionista. Tal fato deve-se ao aumento progressivo no uso de meios de contraste iodados em procedimentos diagnósticos e terapêuticos cardiovasculares, à abordagem de pacientes portadores de múltiplas comorbidades, além de cenários clínicos e angiográficos cada vez mais complexos que requerem procedimentos prolongados ou estagiados.Estima-se que a NIC seja a terceira causa de incidência de insuficiência renal (IR) em pacientes internados, contribui com 11-12% de todos os casos de IR aguda. Segundo alguns estudos, pode atingir percentuais de 25-30% em indivíduos idosos, particularmente se portadores de diabetes mellitus(DM), síndrome coronária aguda (SCA) com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST, disfunção ventricular esquerda e doença renal crónica (DRC). Um subgrupo especial de alto risco para desenvolvimento de NIC inclui aqueles que apresentam DM e doença renal crónica concomitante.

Prospective comparison between three TAVR devices: ACURATE neo vs. CoreValve vs. SAPIEN XT. A single heart team experience in patients with severe aortic stenosis.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to compare the new transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) device ACURATE neo (ACT) with the already established CoreValve (MCV) and SAPIEN XT (SXT) for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis (AS). BACKGROUND: Very few data on TAVR devices are available beyond MCV and SAPIEN and there is no previous study comparing ACT with MCV and SXT. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR for the treatment of severe AS. Clinical outcomes were reported following Valve Academic Research Consortium 2 (VARC-2) criteria. RESULTS: A total of 162 patients (ACT n = 49, MCV n = 56, SXT n = 57), were included. MCV group had higher valve embolization/migration rates (ACT none; MCV 9%; SXT 2%; P = 0.034) causing lower device success rates (ACT 98%; MCV 86%; SXT 95%; P = 0.043). At 30 days, there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality (P = 0.22), cardiovascular mortality (P = 0.20), periprocedural myocardial infarction (P = 0.40), stroke (P = 0.64), major vascular complications (P = 0.48), life-threatening bleeding (P = 0.29), acute kidney injury stage 2/3 (P = 0.69), or VARC-2 composite early safety endpoints (P = 0.21). MCV group had higher rates of new permanent pacemaker implantation (ACT 6%; MCV 25%; SXT 11%; P = 0.013). Follow-up echocardiography showed no significant difference in aortic valve mean pressure gradient (P = 0.73) or moderate/severe aortic regurgitation (P = 0.19) between groups. CONCLUSIONS: In a "real world" registry, ACT compared favorably against the well-studied SXT and MCV devices in both safety and efficacy. MCV implantation was associated with lower device success rates and higher rates of new permanent pacemaker implantation. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Prospective comparison between three TAVR devices: ACURATE neo vs. CoreValve vs. SAPIEN XT. A single heart team experience in patients with severe aortic stenosis

OBJECTIVE: We sought to compare the new transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) device ACURATE neo (ACT) with the already established CoreValve (MCV) and SAPIEN XT (SXT) for the treatment of severe aortic stenosis (AS). BACKGROUND: Very few data on TAVR devices are available beyond MCV and SAPIEN and there is no previous study comparing ACT with MCV and SXT. METHODS: We prospectively evaluated consecutive patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR for the treatment of severe AS. Clinical outcomes were reported following Valve Academic Research Consortium 2 (VARC-2) criteria.RESULTS:A total of 162 patients (ACT n = 49, MCV n = 56, SXT n = 57), were included. MCV group had higher valve embolization/migration rates (ACT none; MCV 9%; SXT 2%; P = 0.034) causing lower device success rates (ACT 98%; MCV 86%; SXT 95%; P = 0.043). At 30 days, there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality (P = 0.22), cardiovascular mortality (P = 0.20), periprocedural myocardial infarction (P = 0.40), stroke (P = 0.64), major vascular complications (P = 0.48), life-threatening bleeding (P = 0.29), acute kidney injury stage 2/3 (P = 0.69), or VARC-2 composite early safety endpoints (P = 0.21). MCV group had higher rates of new permanent pacemaker implantation (ACT 6%; MCV 25%; SXT 11%; P = 0.013). Follow-up echocardiography showed no significant difference in aortic valve mean pressure gradient (P = 0.73) or moderate/severe aortic regurgitation (P = 0.19) between groups...

Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of the Novel Svelte Acrobat Integrated Delivery System via Radial Approach With 5 Fr Catheters.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Svelte Acrobat integrated delivery system (IDS) via radial approach with 5 Fr catheters. The direct stenting (DS) system enables easy delivery, deployment, and postdilatation of a cobalt-chromium stent. METHODS: Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) were prospectively enrolled at three centers to undergo percutaneous coronary intervention with DS via radial approach using 5 Fr catheters. The primary endpoint was IDS success, which was defined as DS without postdilatation and final stenosis <20% with Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI)-3 flow. RESULTS: Fifty consecutive patients with 55 lesions were included. The procedure success rate was 98%. The device could not cross the lesion in 2 cases, so DS success was 96%. Fifty lesions met the primary study objective; thus, IDS success rate was 91%. The procedure duration was 21 ± 9 minutes, fluoroscopy time was 7.3 ± 4.7 minutes, and contrast volume per vessel was 103 ± 33 cm3. The final residual stenosis, by quantitative coronary angiography, was 3.4 ± 4%. The reduced need for additional catheters resulted in a 20% procedural cost reduction. There were no bleeding or vascular complications. At 8 months, the event-free survival rate was 84%. CONCLUSIONS: DS using the Svelte Acrobat IDS via radial approach with low-profile catheters is safe and efficacious in select coronary artery disease patients, and its use is associated with potential procedural cost savings.

Fatores predisponentes para revascularização angiográfica incompleta em pacientes com intervenção coronária percutânea de múltiplos vasos / Predisposing factors for incomplete angiographic revascularization in patients with multivessel percutaneous coronary intervention

A revascularização miocárdica anatômica completa está associada a um melhor controle dossintomas anginosos e a menores índices de eventos cardíacos maiores tardios. No entanto, em substancial número de pacientes tratados por meio de intervenção coronária percutânea (ICP), não logramos sua obtenção. Assim, nosso objetivo foi avaliar os fatores associados à revascularização miocárdica incompleta (RMI) em casos de ICP multiarterial. Métodos: Estudo de coorte envolvendo 1.049 pacientes revascularizados de forma prospectiva e consecutivapor meio de ICP com tratamento de dois ou mais vasos, entre 2012 e 2014, divididos em dois grupos: RMI(n = 324; 30,9%) e revascularização miocárdica completa (n = 725; 69,1%).Resultados: A RMI foi significativamente associada a faixa etária maior (66,5 anos vs. 64,1 anos; p = 0,003),hipertensão arterial (92,2% vs. 86,0%; p = 0,006), insuficiência renal crônica (36.4% vs. 26.0%; p < 0,001), síndrome coronariana aguda (26,3% vs. 21,0%; p = 0,05), revascularização cirúrgica prévia (16,1% vs. 7,1%;p = 0,001), lesões em enxertos venosos (3,4% vs. 1,0%; p < 0,001) e oclusões crônicas (3,3% vs. 1,4%; p =0,005), bem como a menor acesso a stents farmacológicos (57,8% vs. 64,8%; p = 0,002). Os resultados clínicos hospitalares não diferiram entre os grupos.Conclusões: A RMI ocorreu em cerca de um terço dos casos tratados, tendo sido observada associação significativa, com um perfil clínico de maior risco e com intervenções em lesões alvo comumente associadas com menor sucesso do procedimento. O grau de revascularização não gerou impacto nosresultados clínicos da fase hospitalar...

Complete anatomical myocardial revascularization is associated with better anginacontrol and lower rates of cardiac events. However, in a significant number of patients treated bypercutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), complete revascularization is not achieved. Thus, the aimof this study was to evaluate factors associated with incomplete myocardial revascularization (IMR) in multivessel PCI patients. Methods: This was a cohort study involving 1,049 prospectively and consecutively revascularized patients through PCI with treatment of two or more vessels, between 2012 and 2014, divided into two groups: IMR(n = 324; 30.9%) and complete myocardial revascularization (n = 725; 69.1%). Results: IMR was significantly associated with older age (66.5 years vs. 64.1 years; p = 0.003), arterial hypertension (92.2% vs. 86.0%; p = 0.006), chronic renal failure (36.4 % vs. 26.0%; p < 0.001), acute coronary syndrome (26.3% vs. 21.0%; p = 0.05), previous surgical revascularization (16.1% vs. 7.1 %; p = 0.001), saphenous venous graft lesions (3.4% vs. 1.0%, p < 0.001), and chronic occlusions (3.3% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.005), as well as lower access to drug-eluting stents (57.8% vs. 64.8%; p = 0.002). In-hospital clinical outcomes did not differ between the groups. Conclusions: IMR occurred in approximately one-third of treated cases, and a significant association was observed with a higher-risk clinical profile and with target lesion interventions commonly associated with lower procedure success. The degree of revascularization had no impact on in-hospital clinical outcomes...

A Randomized Trial of Creatine-kinase Leak After Rosuvastatin in Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (CLEAR-PCI).

OBJECTIVES: To determine the impact of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) performed at the same time of the peak concentration of rosuvastatin to reduce periprocedural myocardial infarction (PMI). BACKGROUND: Prior studies suggest that a high dose of statin before PCI reduce periprocedural myocardial infarction. However, there is no information regarding the elective PCI performed at the time of the peak of statin concentration to reduce PMI. METHODS: From 2001 to 2013, at a single center in Brazil we enrolled 544 patients who underwent elective PCI and after exclusions for baseline biases in clinical and angiographic characteristics, yielding 528 patients, we prospectively randomly assigned them to either a high loading dose of Rosuvastatin before PCI (n = 264) or standard treatment (n = 264). After exclusions for biases in procedural characteristics a total of 487 patients underwent to end points analysis. The primary outcome was the incidence of MB fraction of creatine kinase (CK-MB) greater than three times the upper limit of normal. RESULTS: The primary end point occurred in 7.6% in the rosuvastatin and 4.8% in the control group (P = 0.200). There was a higher incidence in elevation of CK-MB than normal baseline in the rosuvastatin (67.1% vs 59.2%, P = 0.701). There was no difference in major adverse event (0% in the rosuvastatin group vs 0.8% in control).

6-Month Outcomes in Patients With Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators Undergoing Renal Sympathetic Denervation for the Treatment of Refractory Ventricular Arrhythmias.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess 6-month outcomes in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) undergoing renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) for refractory ventricular arrhythmias (VAs). BACKGROUND: ICDs are generally indicated for patients at high risk of malignant VAs. Sympathetic hyperactivity plays a critical role in the development, maintenance, and aggravation of VAs. METHODS: A total of 10 patients with refractory VA underwent RSD. Underlying conditions were Chagas disease (n = 6), nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 2), and ischemic cardiomyopathy (n = 2). Information on the number of ventricular tachycardia (VT)/ventricular fibrillation (VF) episodes and device therapies (antitachycardia pacing/shocks) in the previous 6 months as well as 1 and 6 months post-treatment was obtained from ICD interrogation. RESULTS: The median number of VT/VF episodes/antitachycardia pacing/shocks 6 months before RSD was 28.5 (range 1 to 106)/20.5 (range 0 to 52)/8 (range 0 to 88), respectively, and was reduced to 1 (range 0 to 17)/0 (range 0 to 7)/0 (range 0 to 3) at 1 month and 0 (range 0 to 9)/0 (range 0 to 7)/0 (range 0 to 3) at 6 months afterward, respectively. There were no major procedure-related complications. Two patients experienced sustained VT within the first week; in both cases, no further episodes occurred during follow-up. Two patients were nonresponders: 1 with persistent idioventricular rhythm and 1 with multiple renal arteries and incomplete ablation. Three patients died during follow-up. None of the deaths was attributed to VA. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with ICDs and refractory VAs, RSD was associated with reduced arrhythmic burden with no procedure-related complications. Randomized controlled trials investigating RSD for treatment of refractory VAs in patients with increased sympathetic activity are needed.

Desfechos de curto e médio prazos de pacientes com e sem disfunção ventricular esquerda submetidos ao implante transcateter de prótese valvar aórtica / Short and medium-term outcomes of patients with and without left ventricular dysfunction submitted to transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Introdução: A utilização crescente do implante transcateter de prótese valvar aórtica (TAVI) em pacientes de alto risco, em especial naqueles com disfunção ventricular, justifica uma avaliação mais profunda da seleção e dos resultados do procedimento. Utilizamos nosso banco de dados para caracterizar o perfil dos pacientes e avaliar os resultados do TAVI de acordo com o grau de disfunção ventricular.Métodos: Estudo observacional longitudinal no qual foram incluídos todos os pacientes com estenose aórtica (EAo) grave, submetidos ao TAVI entre 2009 e 2014, e comparados àqueles com fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo (FEVE) ≤ 40% vs. > 40%. Foram avaliados os desfechos de segurança e eficácia em 30dias e 1 ano. Resultados: Dentre os 172 pacientes, 20 (11,6%) apresentavam FEVE ≤ 40%. Esses pacientes eram mais jovens, com maior prevalência de tabagismo, infarto agudo do miocárdio prévio, cirurgia de revascularizaçãomiocárdica, marca-passo definitivo e hipertensão arterial pulmonar. Também se observou, nesse grupo, maior frequência de classes funcionais mais elevadas. O grupo com FEVE ≤ 40% apresentou menor gradiente valvar aórtico médio para área valvar equivalente. As taxas de sucesso do procedimento não diferiram entre os grupos. Não foram observadas diferenças na mortalidade, nos eventos coronarianos, cerebrovasculares, sangramentos, complicações vasculares e disfunção renal aguda no acompanhamento de 30 dias e 1 ano. No grupo FEVE ≤ 40%, a média da FEVE elevou-se de 31,5 para 45,1% 1 ano após o procedimento (p = 0,002).Conclusões: O TAVI em pacientes com EAo grave e FEVE ≤ 40% não aumenta o risco de complicações e estáassociado à melhora da FEVE.

Background: The increasing use of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in high-risk patients, especially those with ventricular dysfunction, justifies further evaluation of the selection and the results of the procedure. A database was used to characterize the profile of patients and evaluate TAVI results according to the degree of ventricular dysfunction.Methods: This was a longitudinal observational study that included all patients with severe aortic stenosis(AoS) submitted to TAVI between 2009 and 2014, comparing those with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40% vs. > 40%. The safety and efficacy outcomes were evaluated at 30 days and 1 year. Results: Of the 172 patients, 20 (11.6%) had LVEF ≤ 40%. These patients were younger, with a higherprevalence of smoking, previous acute myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, permanent pacemaker, and pulmonary artery hypertension. Higher functional classes were also more often observed in this group. The group with LVEF ≤ 40% had lower mean aortic valve gradient for anequivalent valve area. The procedure success did not differ between groups. There were no differences in mortality in coronary and cerebrovascular events, bleeding, vascular complications, and acute renal failure in the 30 day and 1 year follow-up. In the LVEF ≤ 40% group, the mean LVEF increased from 31.5 to 45.1% 1 year after the procedure (p = 0.002). Conclusions: TAVI in patients with severe AoS and LVEF ≤ 40% does not increase the risk of complications and is associated with LVEF improvement.

Denervação simpática renal em pacientes com cardiodesfibrilador implantável e tempestade elétrica / Renal sympathetic denervation in patients with implantable cardioverter-defibrillator and electrical storm

Introdução: Cardiodesfibriladores implantáveis (CDIs) são geralmente indicados para pacientes com arritmias malignas considerados de alto risco. A hiperatividade simpática desempenha um papel crítico no desenvolvimento, na manutenção e no agravamento de arritmias ventriculares. Novas opçõesde tratamento nessa população representam uma necessidade clínica. Nosso objetivo foi relatar osresultados de pacientes com CDIs e tempestade elétrica submetidos à denervação simpática renal paracontrole da arritmia. Métodos: Oito pacientes com CDIs internados por tempestade elétrica refratária ao tratamento médico otimizado foram submetidos à denervação simpática renal. Condições subjacentes foram: doença de Chagas (n = 6), cardiomiopatia dilatada não isquêmica (n = 1) e cardiomiopatia isquêmica (n = 1). As informações sobre o número de taquicardias ventriculares/fibrilações ventriculares e episódios de terapiasantitaquicardia na última semana pré-procedimento e nos 30 dias pós-tratamento foram obtidas por meiode interrogação dos CDIs. Resultados: As medianas dos episódios de taquicardias ventriculares/fibrilações ventriculares, sobreestimulaçãoe choques na semana que antecedeu a denervação simpática renal foram de 29 (9 a 106), 23 (2 a 94) e 7,5 (1 a 88), sendo significativamente reduzidas para 0 (0 a 12), 0 (0 a 30) e 0 (0 a 1), respectivamente, 1 mês após o procedimento (p = 0,002; p = 0,01; p = 0,003). Nenhum paciente morreu durante o acompanhamento. Não ocorreram complicações maiores relacionadas ao procedimento.Conclusões: Em pacientes com CDIs e tempestade elétrica refratária ao tratamento médico otimizado, a denervação simpática renal reduziu significativamente a carga de arritmia e, consequentemente, as sobre-estimulações e os choques. Ensaios clínicos randomizados, no contexto de denervação simpática renal para controle de arritmias cardíacas refratárias, são necessários para trazer maior robustez aos nossos achados.

Background: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) are usually indicated for patients with malignant arrhythmias considered as high risk. Sympathetic hyperactivity plays a critical role in thedevelopment, maintenance, and worsening of ventricular arrhythmias. New treatment options in thispopulation represent a clinical necessity. This study’s objective was to report the outcomes of patients with ICDs and electrical storm submitted to renal sympathetic denervation for arrhythmia control. Methods: Eight patients with ICDs admitted for electrical storm refractory to optimal medical therapy underwent renal sympathetic denervation. Underlying diseases included Chagas disease (n = 6), non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 1), and ischemic cardiomyopathy (n = 1).Information on the number of episodes of ventricular tachycardia/ventricular fibrillation and antitachycardia therapies in the week before the procedure and 30 days after treatment were obtained through interrogation of the ICDs.Results: The median numbers of episodes of ventricular achycardia/ ventricular fibrillation,antitachycardia pacing, and shocks in the week before renal sympathetic denervation were 29 (9 to 106), 23 (2 to 94), and 7.5 (1 to 88), and significantly reduced to 0 (0 to 12), 0 (0 to 30), and 0 (0 to 1), respectively, 1 month after the procedure (p = 0.002; p = 0.01; p = 0.003, respectively). No patients diedduring follow-up. There were no major complications related to the procedure.Conclusions: In patients with ICDs and electrical storm refractory to optimal medical treatment, renal sympathetic denervation significantly reduced arrhythmia load and, consequently, antitachycardia pacing and shocks. Randomized clinical trials in the context of renal sympathetic denervation tocontrol refractory cardiac arrhythmias are needed to further support these findings.