Radiomics for the identification of extraprostatic extension with prostate MRI: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Extraprostatic extension (EPE) of prostate cancer (PCa) is predicted using clinical nomograms. Incorporating MRI could represent a leap forward, although poor sensitivity and standardization represent unsolved issues. MRI radiomics has been proposed for EPE prediction. The aim of the study was to systematically review the literature and perform a meta-analysis of MRI-based radiomics approaches for EPE prediction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Multiple databases were systematically searched for radiomics studies on EPE detection up to June 2022. Methodological quality was appraised according to Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2) tool and radiomics quality score (RQS). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC) was pooled to estimate predictive accuracy. A random-effects model estimated overall effect size. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed with I2 value. Publication bias was evaluated with a funnel plot. Subgroup analyses were performed to explore heterogeneity. RESULTS: Thirteen studies were included, showing limitations in study design and methodological quality (median RQS 10/36), with high statistical heterogeneity. Pooled AUC for EPE identification was 0.80. In subgroup analysis, test-set and cross-validation-based studies had pooled AUC of 0.85 and 0.89 respectively. Pooled AUC was 0.72 for deep learning (DL)-based and 0.82 for handcrafted radiomics studies and 0.79 and 0.83 for studies with multiple and single scanner data, respectively. Finally, models with the best predictive performance obtained using radiomics features showed pooled AUC of 0.82, while those including clinical data of 0.76. CONCLUSION: MRI radiomics-powered models to identify EPE in PCa showed a promising predictive performance overall. However, methodologically robust, clinically driven research evaluating their diagnostic and therapeutic impact is still needed. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: Radiomics might improve the management of prostate cancer patients increasing the value of MRI in the assessment of extraprostatic extension. However, it is imperative that forthcoming research prioritizes confirmation studies and a stronger clinical orientation to solidify these advancements. KEY POINTS: • MRI radiomics deserves attention as a tool to overcome the limitations of MRI in prostate cancer local staging. • Pooled AUC was 0.80 for the 13 included studies, with high heterogeneity (84.7%, p < .001), methodological issues, and poor clinical orientation. • Methodologically robust radiomics research needs to focus on increasing MRI sensitivity and bringing added value to clinical nomograms at patient level.

Age-Specific Cardiovascular Risk Factors for Major Adverse Cardiac Events in Patients Undergoing Myocardial Perfusion Imaging.

BACKGROUND: The prevalence of traditional cardiovascular risk factors shows different age-specific patterns. It is not known whether the prognostic impact of risk factors is similarly age-specific. We evaluated the profiles of cardiovascular risk factors and their prognostic impact on coronary artery disease (CAD) in relation to age. METHODS: We included 3667 patients with suspected or known CAD undergoing stress myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI). We evaluated the risk for major adverse cardiac events (MACE) within three years from the index MPI in patients belonging to three groups according to age tertile distribution: <59, 59-68, and >68 years. Gender, body mass index, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, family history of CAD, smoking, angina, dyspnea, previous CAD, and MPI outcome were assessed as risk factors by a multivariable Cox's regression. RESULTS: The three-year risk of MACE increased progressively with age and was 9%, 13%, and 18% for each group, respectively (p < 0.0001). Dyspnea and abnormal MPI outcome were significant risk factors for all age groups. Diabetes and smoking were significant from the age of 59 onwards, while hypertension resulted significant for patients older than 68 years. CONCLUSIONS: The number of risk factors was significantly associated with the occurrence of MACE increase with age. It is noteworthy that a personal history of CAD was not useful for risk stratification, while MPI results were.

Pancreatic cancer detection with a non-contrast MR protocol: is it reliable?

PURPOSE: The pancreatic cancer (PC) is the 4th leading cancer-related death, becoming the second one by 2030, with a 5 year survival rate of 8%. Considering its increased incidence in high-risk categories compared to the general population, we aimed to validate a non-contrast MR protocol, to detect PC in its earliest phase, which could be suitable as a screening tool in high-risk patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this retrospective study, we selected 200 patients (> 40 years) from our radiological database, which performed upper abdominal MRI between 2012 and 2017. 100 were negative for pancreatic lesions and 100 positive for pancreatic lesion (< 30 mm). The latter group included: 40 PDAC (pancreatic adenocarcinoma), 42 BD-IPMN (Branch Duct- Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasm), 10 PNET(pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor), 4 SCN(serous cystic neoplasm), 3 IPS(intrapancreatic spleen), 1 MCN(mucinous cystic neoplasm). Three readers (R1, R2 and R3) with a high, medium and low experience, respectively, analysed, first, the non-contrast MR sequences (single-shot T2w breath-hold, GE T1w FS, DWI and 2D/3D MRCP), and then the standard MR protocol, independently, randomly and anonymously. Readers identified or excluded the presence of pancreatic lesion, in both reading sessions. These results were compared with the histopathological diagnosis, and then divided into 3 different classes of lesions: all lesions, pancreatic adenocarcinoma and solid lesion. Mcnemar's test was used to compare the results. The inter-observer agreement was determined according to the kappa statistic in both protocols, and then the inter-protocol agreement was calculated. RESULTS: The non-contrast MR protocol has reached statistical parameters values ranging between 83% in SE (sensitivity) by R3 and 99% in NPV (negative predictive value) by R1. The standard MR protocol has reported slight increasing statistical parameters compared to those of the proposed one. However, there are not significant statistical differences between the both protocols. The proposed non-contrast MR protocol has reported the highest NPVs in the PDAC group detection (R1: 99%, R2: 99%, R3: 98%). In all groups of lesions, the agreement between the two protocols was excellent for each Reader ranging from 96 to 98%. CONCLUSION: The proposed non-contrast MR protocol showed high PC detection values and a time execution ≤ 20 min. Therefore, it can be proposed as a screening tool in high-risk patients.

Prognostic value of myocardial perfusion imaging by cadmium zinc telluride single-photon emission computed tomography in patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Aim of this study was to define the prognostic value of stress myocardial perfusion imaging by cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) for prediction of adverse cardiovascular events in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS AND RESULTS: Studies published until November 2022 were identified by database search. We included studies using stress myocardial perfusion imaging by CZT-SPECT to evaluate subjects with known or suspected CAD and providing primary data of adverse cardiovascular events. Total of 12 studies were finally included recruiting 36,415 patients. Pooled hazard ratio (HR) for the occurrence of adverse events was 2.17 (95% confidence interval, CI, 1.78-2.65) and heterogeneity was 66.1% (P = 0.001). Five studies reported data on adjusted HR for the occurrence of adverse events. Pooled HR was 1.69 (95% CI, 1.44-1.98) and heterogeneity was 44.9% (P = 0.123). Seven studies reported data on unadjusted HR for the occurrence of adverse events. Pooled HR was 2.72 (95% CI, 2.00-3.70). Nine studies reported data useful to calculate separately the incidence rate of adverse events in patients with abnormal and normal myocardial perfusion. Pooled incidence rate ratio was 2.38 (95% CI, 1.39-4.06) and heterogeneity was 84.6% (P < 0.001). The funnel plot showed no evidence of asymmetry (P = 0.517). At meta-regression analysis, we found an association between HR for adverse events and presence of angina symptoms and family history of CAD. CONCLUSIONS: Stress myocardial perfusion imaging by CZT-SPECT is a valuable noninvasive prognostic indicator for adverse cardiovascular events in patients with known or suspected CAD.

Avaliação da percepção da equipe de enfermagem sobre a prática de higienização oral em unidade de terapia intensiva

INTRODUÇÃO: O cuidado com o paciente internado em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva abrange variadas esferas, incluindo a da higiene oral, frequentemente praticada por profissionais da equipe de enfermagem. Estes pacientes são constantemente expostos a fatores de risco que podem levar a complicações sistêmicas, como a pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica. A execução diária da higienização oral contribui para a redução de patógenos da cavidade oral, trazendo segurança ao paciente. Sua prática adequada demanda conhecimento e padronização, e, para tanto, protocolos e treinamentos eficazes são necessários. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado estudo diagnóstico situacional de caráter observacional, descritivo e transversal, com aplicação de questionário a equipe de enfermagem das Unidades de Terapia Intensiva de um hospital público de cardiologia do Estado de São Paulo. RESULTADOS: Foram obtidos 103 questionários respondidos, sendo 49 técnicos de enfermagem, 29 enfermeiros, 20 auxiliares de enfermagem e 5 enfermeiros residentes. Do total de participantes, 39,8% afirmaram não realizar a higienização do tubo orotraqueal e 58,3% não recebeu treinamento em higienização oral. A consideração de que a higienização oral é adequada foi de 73,8% e demonstrou-se independente estatisticamente de fatores como a higienização do tubo orotraqueal, e recebimento de treinamento. CONCLUSÃO: O papel da equipe de enfermagem é essencial para a sistematização da prática da higiene oral, colaborando para a prevenção de infecções. A presença de protocolo sistematizado e treinamentos eficazes favorecem as boas práticas assistenciais e beneficia o tratamento do paciente. O cirurgião-dentista inserido na equipe multidisciplinar possibilita enriquecimento para o atendimento do paciente crítico.

INTRODUCTION: The care of patients hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit covers several spheres, including oral hygiene, often practiced by professionals from the nursing team. These patients are constantly exposed to risk factors that can lead to systemic complications, such as ventilator-associated pneumonia. The daily execution of oral hygiene contributes to the reduction of pathogens in the oral cavity, bringing safety to the patient. Its proper practice demands knowledge and standardization, and, therefore, effective protocols and training are necessary. METHODS: A situational diagnostic observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out, with the application of a questionnaire to the nursing staff of the Intensive Care Units of a public cardiology hospital in the State of São Paulo. RESULTS: 103 questionnaires were answered, 49 nursing technicians, 29 nurses, 20 nursing assistants and 5 resident nurses. Of the total number of participants, 39.8% said they did not clean the orotracheal tube and 58.3% did not receive training in oral hygiene. The consideration that oral hygiene is adequate was 73.8% and proved to be statistically independent of factors such as cleaning the orotracheal tube, and receiving training. CONCLUSION: The role of the nursing team is essential for the systematization of the practice of oral hygiene, collaborating for the prevention of infections. The presence of a systematic protocol and effective training favor good care practices and benefit patient treatment. The dental surgeon inserted in the multidisciplinary team enables enrichment for the care of critical patients.

Atuação odontológica no paciente cardiopata em cuidados paliativos na unidade de terapia intensiva / Dental performance in the patient with heart disease in palliative care in the intensive care unit

INTRODUÇÃO: A Organização Mundial de Saúde (OMS) define Cuidados Paliativos como uma "abordagem que melhora a qualidade de vida de pacientes e suas famílias que enfrentam problemas associados a doenças que ameaçam a vida. Previne e alivia o sofrimento, através de identificação precoce, avaliação correta e tratamento da dor e de outros problemas físicos, psicossociais ou espirituais". Pacientes com doenças ameaçadoras de vida, sobretudo os cardiopatas, apresentam sinais e sintomas bucais decorrentes da doença de base ou do seu tratamento. Portanto, o cuidado bucal deve ser considerado como parte do plano integral de cuidados paliativos, para reduzir não apenas a carga microbiana bucal, mas também o risco de acidentes, dor, infecções e complicações sistêmicas. RELATO DE CASO: Paciente do gênero masculino, com 65 anos de idade. Apresenta diagnóstico de insuficiência cardíaca perfil B, hipertensão arterial sistêmica, doença renal crônica e diabetes mellitus tipo II, com antecedente de dois infartos agudos do miocárdio e internado na unidade de terapia intensiva de um hospital cardiológico terciário, em cuidados paliativos exclusivos. Observou-se ao exame físico extraoral o paciente ser não contactuante, acamado, intubado, com abertura mandibular reduzida à manipulação, lábios ressecados; e ao exame físico intraoral, ser dentado parcial superior e inferior sem uso de próteses dentárias, ter doença periodontal, dentes incisivos central e lateral superior do lado direito com mobilidade grau 3, lesões ulceradas em mucosa labial, língua ressecada, saburra lingual e fluxo salivar reduzido. Visto isso, elaborou-se um plano de cuidados bucais visando a prevenção do risco de broncoaspiração, aliviar e controlar os sinais bucais. Foi realizada exodontia dos dentes com mobilidade, laserterapia e biópsia incisional da lesão ulcerada, higiene oral com acompanhamento odontológico diariamente. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: O caso enfatiza a importância do cirurgião-dentista inserido numa equipe de Cuidados Paliativos, que através do atendimento especializado reduziu o risco de acidente e proporcionou alívio e conforto ao paciente em sua fase final de vida.

Avaliação da condição bucal de pacientes cardiopatas com covid-19 em um hospital terciário de cardiologia / Evaluation of the oral condition of cardiac patients with covid-19 in a tertiary cardiology hospital

INTRODUÇÃO: a covid-19 é uma infecção respiratória aguda grave causada pelo vírus sars-cov-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2). as formas mais graves da doença são relacionadas a idosos e portadores de comorbidades, como pacientes com doenças cardiovasculares. o sars-cov-2 liga-se aos receptores da enzima conversora de angiotensina 2 (eca2) presentes em diversos tecidos do organismo, sendo em grande quantidade na mucosa oral, onde sofre replicação nas glândulas salivares e é capaz de promover alterações na cavidade oral. além das complicações próprias do vírus, a internação em ambiente hospitalar favorece o surgimento de agravos no sistema estomatognático relacionados à saúde debilitada do paciente e às intercorrências da internação. OBJETIVO: Caracterizar a condição oral dos pacientes cardiopatas com COVID-19 em um hospital terciário de cardiologia e descrever os principais diagnósticos e tratamentos realizados. MÉTODO: Estudo quantitativo, descritivo e retrospectivo de prontuários odontológicos de pacientes cardiopatas adultos com COVID-19 internados em Enfermaria e UTI COVID de um hospital cardiológico no período de Março de 2021 a Março de 2022. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 79 prontuários odontológicos, sendo o gênero masculino o mais prevalente (75%) e a idade média de 64,1 anos. Do local de internação, 59% estavam na UTI COVID. A Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica foi o diagnóstico cardiovascular mais observado (78%). Na cavidade oral, a saburra lingual (25%) e higiene oral insatisfatória (63%) foram mais predominantes. Hemorragias em região orofacial e alterações no fluxo salivar também foram observadas em, respectivamente, 12,65% e 20,1% dos indivíduos. O principal tratamento odontológico realizado foi a higiene oral (34%), seguido de hidratação das mucosas (33%) e instrução de higiene oral ao paciente (24%). CONCLUSÃO: O estudo realizado demonstrou uma precariedade na condição oral dos pacientes cardiopatas infectados por Sars-Cov-2, com alta prevalência de saburra, doença periodontal e higiene oral insatisfatória entre os indivíduos. Ressalta a necessidade da implementação de práticas adequadas de higiene oral e a importância da presença do cirurgião-dentista em ambiente hospitalar.

Avaliação da percepção da equipe de enfermagem sobre a prática de higienização oral em unidade de terapia intensiva / Assessment of the nursing team's perception of the practice of oral hygiene in an intensive care unit

INTRODUÇÃO: O cuidado com o paciente internado em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva abrange variadas esferas, incluindo a da higiene oral, frequentemente praticada por profissionais da equipe de enfermagem. Devido ao acúmulo de microorganismos orais e às condições clínicas, os pacientes são constantemente expostos a fatores de risco que podem levar a complicações sistêmicas, como a pneumonia associada à ventilação mecânica (PAVM). A execução diária da higienização oral contribui para a redução de patógenos da cavidade oral, auxilia na prevenção de infecções e na preservação da integridade da mucosa oral, trazendo segurança ao paciente. A prática adequada de higienização oral demanda conhecimento e padronização, e, para tanto, protocolos e treinamentos eficazes são necessários. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado estudo diagnóstico situacional de caráter observacional, descritivo e transversal, com aplicação de questionário a equipe de enfermagem das Unidades de Terapia Intensiva de um hospital público de cardiologia do Estado de São Paulo. RESULTADOS: Foram obtidos 103 questionários respondidos, sendo 49 técnicos de enfermagem, 29 enfermeiros, 20 auxiliares de enfermagem e 5 enfermeiros residentes. Do total de participantes, 39,8% afirmaram não realizar a higienização do tubo orotraqueal e 58,3% não recebeu treinamento em higienização oral. A consideração de que a higienização oral é adequada foi de 73,8% e demonstrou-se independente estatisticamente de fatores como a higienização ou não do tubo orotraqueal, recebimento ou não de treinamento. CONCLUSÃO: O papel da equipe de enfermagem é essencial para o cuidado e sistematização da prática da higiene oral, colaborando para a prevenção de infecções, como a PAVM. A presença de protocolo sistematizado e treinamentos eficazes favorece a disseminação de boas práticas assistenciais e beneficia o tratamento do paciente crítico. O cirurgião-dentista inserido na equipe multidisciplinar possibilita enriquecimento para o atendimento do paciente internado em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva.

Infecção odontogênica em paciente com infarto agudo do miocárdio em uso de tripla terapia antitrombótica: relato de caso / Odontogenic infection in a patient with acute myocardial infarction on triple antithrombotic therapy: case report

INTRODUÇÃO: As infecções odontogênicas são frequentemente causadas por diversos microrganismos e espécies bacterianas. Os pacientes possuem sinais e sintomas específicos como dor localizada, acompanhada de calor e inchaço na região afetada. Embora a maioria dos processos infecciosos em estágios iniciais sejam controlados com intervenção cirúrgica e antibioticoterapias, eles têm potencial para se disseminar por meio dos planos faciais da cabeça e pescoço, podendo causar uma piora da condição sistêmica do paciente. Esse relato apresenta um caso de infecção odontogênica em paciente internado com infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST em uso de tripla terapia antitrombótica, em que a intervenção odontológica foi imediata e de extrema relevância para a compensação clínica do paciente. RELATO DE CASO: Paciente gênero masculino, 73 anos com diagnóstico de doença arterial coronariana e fibrilação arterial persistente, internado na Unidade Coronariana em um hospital terciário de cardiologia com quadro de infarto agudo do miocárdio em uso de enoxaparina, ácido acetilsalicílico e clopidogrel com queixa de dor em cavidade oral. Ao exame físico extraoral: edema e hiperemia em face do lado direito e lábio superior. Exame físico intraoral: dentado parcial com aumento volumétrico em fundo de sulco gengival anterior superior e mucosa labial do lado direito. Realizado radiografia periapical dos dentes incisivos central e lateral superior lado direito com condutos obturados e lesões periapicais. Conduta: anestesia local, desobturação dos condutos com medicações intracanais, drenagem do abscesso, colocação de dreno após incisão em mucosa gengival, uso de selante de fibrina para hemostasia local e antibioticoterapia. Após a remoção do dreno, observa-se regressão do edema em hemiface direita e regressão total do edema em lábio superior, com ausência de sintomatologia dolorosa relatada pelo paciente. O paciente recebeu alta após 9 dias e foi acompanhado via ambulatório para finalizar os tratamentos endodônticos, medicado com amoxicilina e clavulanato de potássio por sete dias e dipirona para analgesia. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: O caso relatado demonstra o potencial lesivo de focos infecciosos em cavidade oral e a importância dos cuidados com a saúde bucal, especialmente em pacientes críticos com alterações cardiovasculares e alto risco de sangramento. O diagnóstico e tratamento odontológico imediatos foram essenciais para resolução do quadro infeccioso bucal, além de minimizar possíveis complicações sistêmicas e reduzir o tempo de hospitalização.

Prevalence of cancer therapy cardiotoxicity as assessed by imaging procedures: A scoping review.

BACKGROUND: Advances in treatment and optimization of chemotherapy protocols have greatly improved survival in cancer patients. Unfortunately, treatment can cause a reduction in left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) leading to cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). We conducted a scoping review of published literature in order to identify and summarize the reported prevalence of cardiotoxicity evaluated by noninvasive imaging procedures in a wide-ranging of patients referred to cancer treatment as chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. METHODS: Different databases were checked (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) to identify studies published from January 2000 to June 2021. Articles were included if they reported data on LVEF evaluation in oncological patients treated with chemotherapeutic agents and/or radiotherapy, measured by echocardiography and/or nuclear or cardiac magnetic resonance imaging test, providing criteria of CTRCD evaluation such as the specific threshold for LVEF decrease. RESULTS: From 963 citations identified, 46 articles, comprising 6841 patients, met the criteria for the inclusion in the scoping review. The summary prevalence of CTRCD as assessed by imaging procedures in the studies reviewed was 17% (95% confidence interval, 14-20). CONCLUSIONS: The results of our scoping review endorse the recommendations regarding imaging modalities to ensure identification of cardiotoxicity in patients undergoing cancer therapies. However, to improve patient management, more homogeneous CTRCD evaluation studies are required, reporting a detailed clinical assessment of the patient before, during and after treatment.

External validation and update of the J-ACCESS model in an Italian cohort of patients undergoing stress myocardial perfusion imaging.

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular risk models are based on traditional risk factors and investigations such as imaging tests. External validation is important to determine reproducibility and generalizability of a prediction model. We performed an external validation of t the Japanese Assessment of Cardiac Events and Survival Study by Quantitative Gated SPECT (J-ACCESS) model, developed from a cohort of patients undergoing stress myocardial perfusion imaging. METHODS: We included 3623 patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease undergoing stress single-photon emission computer tomography (SPECT) myocardial perfusion imaging at our academic center between January 2001 and December 2019. RESULTS: In our study population, the J-ACCESS model underestimated the risk of major adverse cardiac events (cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and severe heart failure requiring hospitalization) within three-year follow-up. The recalibrations and updated of the model slightly improved the initial performance: C-statistics increased from 0.664 to 0.666 and Brier score decreased from 0.075 to 0.073. Hosmer-Lemeshow test indicated a logistic regression fit only for the calibration slope (P = .45) and updated model (P = .22). In the update model, the intercept, diabetes, and severity of myocardial perfusion defects categorized coefficients were comparable with J-ACCESS. CONCLUSION: The external validation of the J-ACCESS model as well as recalibration models have a limited value for predicting of three-year major adverse cardiac events in our patients. The performance in predicting risk of the updated model resulted superimposable to the calibration slope model.

Prediction of outcome by 82Rb PET/CT in patients with ischemia and nonobstructive coronary arteries.

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to assess the prognostic value of cardiac 82Rb positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) imaging in patients with myocardial ischemia of nonobstructive coronary arteries (INOCA). METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 311 INOCA patients who underwent rest stress 82Rb PET/CT. Cardiac end points were cardiac death, myocardial infarction, or late coronary revascularization. A parametric survival model was also used to identify how the variables influenced time to event. RESULTS: During a median follow-up of 37 months (range 6-108), 23 (7%) cardiac events occurred. In patients with events total perfusion defect (TPD) was higher and myocardial flow reserve (MFR) lower compared to those without events (both P < .001). At multivariable Cox analysis, increased TPD (i.e., ≥ 5%) and reduced MFR (i.e., < 2) were predictors of events (both P < .001). At Weibull survival analysis, the highest probability of cardiac events and risk acceleration were observed in patients with both increased TPD and reduced MFR. Annualized event rate was higher in patients with reduced MFR compared to those with preserved MFR (P < .001). CONCLUSION: In patients with INOCA, the combined evaluation of myocardial perfusion and coronary vascular function by 82Rb PET/CT is able to identify those at higher risk of cardiac events.

Regional myocardial perfusion imaging in predicting vessel-related outcome: interplay between the perfusion results and angiographic findings.

BACKGROUND: Despite myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) by cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) camera is largely used in the diagnosis and risk stratification of patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD), no data are available on the prognostic value of a regional MPI evaluation. We evaluated the prognostic value of regional MPI by the CZT camera in predicting clinical outcomes at the vessel level in patients with available angiographic data. METHODS AND RESULTS: Five hundred and forty-one subjects with suspected or known CAD referred to 99mTc-sestamibi gated CZT-SPECT cardiac imaging and with available angiographic data were studied. Both regional total perfusion deficit (TPD) and ischemic TPD (ITPD) were calculated separately for each vascular territory (left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary artery). The outcome end points were cardiac death, target vessel-related myocardial infarction, or late coronary revascularization. The prevalence of CAD ≥ 50%, regional stress TPD, and regional ITPD was significantly higher in vessels with events as compared to those without (both P < 0.001). The receiver operating characteristics area under the curve for regional ITPD for the identification of vessel-related events was 0.81 (95% confidence interval 0.75-0.86). An ITPD value of 2.0% provided the best trade-off for identifying the vessel-related event. At multivariable analysis, both CAD ≥ 50% and ITPD ≥ 2.0% resulted in independent predictors of events. CONCLUSIONS: Regional myocardial perfusion assessed by the CZT camera demonstrated good reliability in predicting vessel-related events in patients with suspected or known CAD.

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance native T1 mapping in Anderson-Fabry disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: T1 mapping is an established cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) technique that can characterize myocardial tissue. We aimed to determine the weighted mean native T1 values of Anderson-Fabry disease (AFD) patients and the standardized mean differences (SMD) as compared to healthy control subjects. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases was conducted according to the PRISMA statement to retrieve original studies reporting myocardial native T1 values in AFD patients and healthy controls. A random effects model was used to calculate SMD, and meta-regression analysis was conducted to explore heterogeneity sources. Subgroup analysis was also performed according to scanner field strength and sequence type. RESULTS: From a total of 151 items, 14 articles were included in the final analysis accounting for a total population of 982 subjects. Overall, the weighted mean native T1 values was 984 ± 47 ms in AFD patients and 1016 ± 26 ms in controls (P < 0.0001) with a pooled SMD of - 2.38. In AFD patients there was an inverse correlation between native T1 values and male gender (P = 0.002) and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) (P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses confirmed lower T1 values in AFD patients compared to controls with a pooled SMD of -  2.54, -  2.28, -  2.46 for studies performed on 1.5T with modified Look-Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI), shortened MOLLI and saturation-recovery single-shot acquisition, respectively and of -  2.41 for studies conducted on 3T. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings confirm a reduction of native T1 values in AFD patients compared to healthy controls and point out that the degree of T1 shortening in AFD is influenced by gender and LVH. Although T1 mapping is useful in proving cardiac involvement in AFD patients, there is need to standardize shreshold values according to imaging equipment and protocols.

Simultaneous assessment of myocardial perfusion and adrenergic innervation in patients with heart failure by low-dose dual-isotope CZT SPECT imaging.

BACKGROUND: In patients with heart failure (HF) sequential imaging studies have demonstrated a relationship between myocardial perfusion and adrenergic innervation. We evaluated the feasibility of a simultaneous low-dose dual-isotope 123I/99mTc-acquisition protocol using a cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) camera. METHODS AND RESULTS: Thirty-six patients with HF underwent simultaneous low-dose 123I-metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG)/99mTc-sestamibi gated CZT-SPECT cardiac imaging. Perfusion and innervation total defect sizes and perfusion/innervation mismatch size (defined by 123I-MIBG defect size minus 99mTc-sestamibi defect size) were expressed as percentages of the total left ventricular (LV) surface area. LV ejection fraction (EF) significantly correlated with perfusion defect size (P < .005), innervation defect size (P < .005), and early (P < .05) and late (P < .01) 123I-MIBG heart-to-mediastinum (H/M) ratio. In addition, late H/M ratio was independently associated with reduced LVEF (P < .05). Although there was a significant relationship (P < .001) between perfusion and innervation defect size, innervation defect size was larger than perfusion defect size (P < .001). At multivariable linear regression analysis, 123I-MIBG washout rate (WR) correlated with perfusion/innervation mismatch (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with HF, a simultaneous low-dose dual-isotope 123I/99mTc-acquisition protocol is feasible and could have important clinical implications.

Importância da higiene oral em pacientes internados em unidade de terapia intensiva / Importance of oral hygiene in patients admitted to an intensive care unit

INTRODUÇÃO: Os pacientes internados em Unidades de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) são, na maioria das vezes, acometidos por doenças agudas ou complicações de doenças crônicas e dependentes de cuidados. Durante a permanência em UTI podem ocorrer alterações orais associadas a doenças sistêmicas ou ao uso de medicamentos e equipamentos de ventilação mecânica. Os pacientes podem apresentar acúmulo de secreção em orofaringe e redução do fluxo salivar (hipossalivação), que ocorre devido ao uso de vários medicamentos e favorece o crescimento microbiano oral. As infecções orais, por sua vez, parecem favorecer complicações sistêmicas como a pneumonia nosocomial ou hospitalar. A grande prevalência de manifestações orais em pacientes hospitalizados enfatiza a necessidade da higiene oral. RELATO DE CASO: Paciente do gênero masculino, 62 anos, portador de insuficiência cardíaca perfil B, disfunção de prótese aórtica, insuficiência aórtica importante secundária à febre reumática e insuficiência mitral moderada, em pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca. No exame extra-oral, paciente não contactuante, acamado, com dieta enteral, em uso de cateter de oxigênio e lábios ressecados. Ao exame intra-oral, língua ressecada, mucosas ressecadas, crostas aderidas em palato mole e duro e acúmulo de secreção em região de orofaringe. Como diagnósticos odontológicos: lábios ressecados, hipossalivação, língua ressecada, crostas em cavidade oral e secreção orofaríngea. Foi realizada higiene oral especializada, hidratação bucal e labial, e a instrução de higiene oral para equipe de enfermagem. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: A higiene oral de pacientes críticos é um desafio; e a atuação do cirurgião-dentista na equipe multidisciplinar em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva faz-se importante, tal como o treinamento da equipe de enfermagem, visando a garantia de uma higiene oral satisfatória, a fim de evitar maiores complicações orais e sistêmicas ao paciente cardiopata.

Terapia fotodinâmica em úlcera traumática decorrente de intubação orotraqueal / Photodynamic therapy in traumatic ulcer following orotracheal intubation

INTRODUÇÃO: A necessidade de intubação orotraqueal (IOT) prolongada pode proporcionar lesões ulcerativas em região orofacial devido à pressão exercida pelo tubo orotraqueal. A laserterapia de baixa intensidade tem se mostrado uma estratégia promissora na recuperação de lesões teciduais em odontologia, promovendo modulação inflamatória e analgesia local. Em alguns casos, pode ser associada a agentes fotossensibilizadores, como o corante azul de metileno, tendo-se a terapia fotodinâmica (PDT, do inglês, Photodynamic Therapy). Este caso clínico apresenta um paciente do gênero masculino, 80 anos, com diagnóstico de doença arterial coronariana e angina instável, submetido a cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica; no pós-operatório, evoluiu com taquicardia sinusal e necessitou de IOT por 22 dias. Após a extubação, a equipe médica solicitou avaliação odontológica devido à lesão em lábio com quadro de dor intensa e baixa aceitação da dieta oral, sendo necessária a introdução de sonda nasoenteral. Ao exame físico extraoral, observou-se extensa lesão ulcerada e sangrante em lábio superior de aproximadamente 6 cm de diâmetro, com sinais de dilaceração e necrose tecidual. Para auxiliar na reparação da lesão, optou-se pela utilização de terapia fotodinâmica. MÉTODOS: O paciente foi submetido a seis sessões de PDT. Após a higienização da superfície da lesão com clorexidina 0,12%, aplicava- -se na região ulcerada o corante azul de metileno (0,01%, Chimiolux® - DMC) por três minutos (tempo de pré-irradiação), seguido pela irradiação com 4J de laser vermelho (λ = 660nm) por ponto, totalizando 14 pontos ao longo de toda a lesão. RESULTADOS: Após a primeira sessão, o paciente relatou melhora significativa na sintomatologia dolorosa (de oito para três na escala visual de dor), além de ser possível observar ausência de sangramento e formação de crostas cicatriciais. Em três sessões, observou-se neoformação tecidual e regressão da lesão de 6 para 4 cm de diâmetro. Ao término das seis sessões de PDT, o paciente voltou a se alimentar normalmente, não havendo mais necessidade de dieta enteral. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: A terapia fotodinâmica mostra-se como uma ferramenta importante na reparação de feridas, sendo um tratamento de baixo custo, com mínimos efeitos colaterais e de resultado rápido e eficaz. O estudo demonstra a importância da atuação multiprofissional e, em especial, a atuação odontológica em ambiente hospitalar.

Diagnostic value of clinical risk scores for predicting normal stress myocardial perfusion imaging in subjects without coronary artery calcium.

BACKGROUND: We evaluated if risk scores commonly used to predict the absence of significant stenosis at coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography are useful to predict a normal stress myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) study. METHODS: Our cohort included a total of 1422 consecutive patients with zero coronary artery calcium score (ZCS) who underwent 82Rb PET/CT for evaluation of suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Predictive models were constructed as reported by Genders et al. and Alshahrani et al., and the probability of abnormal summed stress score (SSS) and of reduced myocardial perfusion reserve (MPR) based on these risk scores was assessed. RESULTS: In the overall population, the prevalence of abnormal SSS was 0.10 and the prevalence of reduced MPR was 0.17 (both P < .001).The observed frequencies of abnormal SSS and reduced MPR vs the probabilities predicted by the Genders and Alshahrani models were above the diagonal identity line, highlighting an underestimation of the observed occurrence by these models. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the Genders and Alshahrani models indicated lack of discriminative ability for predicting abnormal SSS (0.547 and 0.527) and reduced MPR (0.509 and 0.538). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test revealed that both models underestimated the observed occurrence of abnormal SSS and reduced MPR. CONCLUSIONS: Available models were unable to identify among patients with ZCS those with a low probability of a normal stress MPI study. Thus, an optimal approach to rule out from MPI patients without detectable coronary calcium still needs to be improved.