Effects of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in the Treatment of Patients With Central Retinal Artery Occlusion: A Retrospective Study.

Background Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) results in sudden, painless vision loss. As an analogous condition to acute ischemic stroke, CRAO is an ophthalmological emergency, but a standardized treatment is lacking. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been widely used in spite of the inconsistent results reported. Purpose To report the visual acuity (VA) outcomes in all patients submitted to HBOT with non-arteritic CRAO in a tertiary center. Methods This retrospective study included all adult patients with CRAO and symptoms lasting for less than 24 hours who were prescribed HBOT in the Hyperbaric Medicine Unit of a Portuguese hospital from March 2009 to February 2023. Patient demographic information, medical history, ophthalmologic evaluation, hospital of referral, time until HBOT, supplementary treatments, number of HBOT sessions, adverse effects, and patient subjective VA gain were collected. All patients were subjected to 90-minute HBOT sessions with 100% oxygen at 2.4 ATA. The primary outcome was VA change (dif-logMAR) before and after treatment. A clinically significant visual improvement was defined as a dif-logMAR≥0.3. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 29 (Released 2021; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States) (p<0.05 is considered significant). Results A total of 114 patients were included in this study; 68% (n=77) were male, with a mean age of 69 years, and were subjected to a median number of seven HBOT sessions. No serious adverse effects from HBOT were reported. The mean time delay from symptoms to treatment was 12 hours, and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at baseline was counting fingers or worse in 84% (n=96) of the patients. A dif-logMAR≥0.3 occurred in 46% (n=52) of the patients, and 58% (n=66) reported subjective VA improvement after the treatment. A significant improvement between BCVA before HBOT (2.12±0.74) and after HBOT (1.67±0.74) was observed. The VA outcome was found to be related to the total number of sessions, age, obesity, supplementary treatments, and cherry-red spot (CRS) at presentation. There were no significant effects of the time delay from symptoms to treatment in the explanation of the VA outcome. Conclusions HBOT appears to be safe and has a beneficial effect on VA outcomes in patients with non-arteritic CRAO, particularly depending on the number of sessions. Patient factors such as age, obesity, and the presence of CRSs also appear to influence the VA outcome.

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation versus impella for cardiogenic shock in acute myocardial infarction: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is an important cause of cardiogenic shock (CS). There is lack of evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) compared with Impella in this population. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library for studies comparing VA-ECMO with Impella in patients with CS related to AMI. The systematic review and meta-analysis followed Cochrane recommendations and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. We used R version 4.3.1 for all statistical analyses. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were pooled with a random-effects model. RESULTS: We included seven observational studies with 15.903 patients, of whom 12.943 (81.3%) were treated with Impella. There was no significant difference between groups regarding in-hospital mortality (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.37-1.69; p=0.54; Figure 1A), ischemic stroke (OR 0.69; 95% CI 0.14-3.35; p=0.64; Figure 1B), acute kidney injury (OR 1.22; 95% CI 0.55-2.70; p=0.62), renal replacement therapy or dialysis (OR 1.02; 95% CI 0.33-3.19; p=0.97; Figure 1C), and blood transfusion (OR 0.52; 95% CI 0.16-1.72; p=0.28). CONCLUSION: In this meta-analysis, there was no significant difference between VA-ECMO and Impella among patients with CS and AMI for the outcomes of in-hospital mortality, ischemic stroke, acute kidney injury, renal replacement therapy, or blood transfusion.

The interplay between climate change and ageing: A systematic review of health indicators.

Climate change and rapid population ageing pose challenges for communities and public policies. This systematic review aims to gather data from studies that present health indicators establishing the connection between climate change and the physical and mental health of the older population (≥ 65 years), who experience a heightened vulnerability to the impacts of climate change when compared to other age cohorts. This review was conducted according to the PICO strategy and following Cochrane and PRISMA guidelines. Three databases (PubMed, Scopus and Greenfile) were searched for articles from 2015 to 2022. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria,nineteen studies were included. The findings indicated that various climate change phenomena are associated with an elevated risk of mortality and morbidity outcomes in older adults. These included cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and mental diseases, along with physical injuries. Notably, the impact of climate change was influenced by gender, socioeconomic status, education level, and age-vulnerability factors. Climate change directly affected the health of older adults through ambient temperature variability, extreme and abnormal temperatures, strong winds, sea temperature variability, extreme El Niño-southern Oscillation (ENSO) conditions and droughts, and indirectly by air pollution resulting from wildfires. This review presents further evidence confirming that climate change significantly impacts the health and well-being of older adults. It highlights the urgency for implementing effective strategies to facilitate adaptation and mitigation, enhancing the overall quality of life for all individuals.

The Effects of Exercise on Cardiogenic Shock with an Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump: A Case Report. / Efeitos do Exercício em Choque Cardiogênico e Balão Intra-Aórtico: Um Relato de Caso.

This case report describes the exercise program on a hospitalized 54-year-old male patient with cardiogenic shock waiting for a heart transplant assisted by an intra-aortic balloon pump, a temporary mechanical circulatory support device. The temporary mechanical circulatory support device, an intra-aortic balloon pump, was placed in the left subclavian artery, enabling the exercise protocol. Measurements and values from Swan-Ganz catheter, blood sample, brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), as well as the six-minute walk test (6MWT) and venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) were obtained before and after an exercise protocol. The exercise training protocol involved the use of an unloaded bed cycle ergometer once a day, for a maximum of 30 minutes, to the tolerance limit. No adverse events or events related to the dislocation of the intra-aortic balloon pump were observed during the exercise protocol. The exercise program resulted in higher SvO2 levels, with an increased 6MWT with lower Borg dyspnea scores (312 meters vs. 488 meters and five points vs. three points, respectively). After completing the ten-day exercise protocol, the patient underwent a non-complicated heart transplant surgery and a full recovery in the ICU. This study showed that exercise is a feasible option for patients with cardiogenic shock who are using an intra-aortic balloon pump and that it is well-tolerated with no reported adverse events.

O presente relato de caso descreve o programa de exercícios aplicado a um paciente do sexo masculino, de 54 anos, internado com choque cardiogênico, aguardando transplante cardíaco e assistido por balão intra-aórtico, um dispositivo de suporte circulatório mecânico temporário. O dispositivo de suporte circulatório mecânico temporário, um balão intra-aórtico, foi colocado na artéria subclávia esquerda, possibilitando o protocolo de exercícios. Antes e após um protocolo de exercícios, foram obtidos dados a partir de cateter de Swan-Ganz, amostra de sangue, peptídeo natriurético cerebral (NT-proBNP), proteína C reativa de alta sensibilidade (PCR-as), teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6min) e medição da saturação venosa de oxigênio (SvO2). O protocolo de treinamento físico envolveu a utilização de um cicloergômetro adaptado ao leito, sem carga, uma vez ao dia, por no máximo 30 minutos, até o limite da tolerância. Não foram observados eventos adversos tampouco relacionados ao deslocamento do balão intra-aórtico durante o protocolo de exercícios. O programa de exercícios resultou em maior SvO2 com aumento do TC6min e menores escores de dispneia de Borg (312 metros vs. 488 metros e cinco pontos vs. três pontos, respectivamente). Após completar o protocolo de exercícios de dez dias, o paciente foi submetido a uma cirurgia de transplante cardíaco sem complicações e recuperação total na UTI. O presente estudo demonstrou que o exercício é uma opção viável para pacientes com choque cardiogênico em uso de balão intra-aórtico e que é bem tolerado, além de não haver relatos de eventos adversos.

Gas-diffusion microextraction combined with HPLC-DAD for the comprehensive analysis of volatile carbonyl compounds in wood-based panels.

This work presents a novel application of gas-diffusion microextraction (GDME) combined with high-performance liquid chromatography with diode-array detection (HPLC-DAD) for the comprehensive analysis of volatile carbonyl compounds released from wood-based panels. GDME is a simple, fast, and environmentally friendly technique that allows the simultaneous extraction and derivatization of volatile carbonyls directly from solid samples. Commercial particleboards were analysed together with particleboard panels specifically produced using controlled conditions, materials, and reagents, to evaluate the differences in the emission profile of volatile carbonyl compounds. The effect of different production parameters, such as the type of wood particle, resin, and moisture content, on the emission profile of volatile carbonyls from particleboards was investigated using principal component analysis (PCA). The results showed that GDME-HPLC-DAD could successfully differentiate particleboards according to their emission of carbonyl compounds, such as formaldehyde, furfural, benzaldehyde, and other aliphatic carbonyls. Besides the differences on the emission of formaldehyde caused by the type of resin used, UF (urea-formaldehyde) and mUF (UF fortified with melamine), it was found that pine (Pinus pinaster Ait.) particleboards exhibit higher emissions of compounds such as acetaldehyde or hexanal when compared to the higher emissions of compounds such as furfural or benzaldehyde on the recycled particleboards.

Oropharyngeal Hemorrhage and Difficult Airway Management: A Decision Not to Intubate.

BACKGROUND: Bleeding in the upper airways is an important cause of airway-related death. A higher incidence of airway management failure and complications after intubation attempts in the emergency department (ED) had been suggested. Airway management of patients with active oropharyngeal hemorrhage may be challenging, leading the clinician to modify the approach. CASE REPORT: A 57-year-old woman presented to the ED with oropharyngeal hemorrhage after an extensive invasive dental procedure. She was on long-term warfarin therapy due to aortic and mitral valve replacement, which she suspended 5 days prior and restarted the day after the procedure. Besides the active bleeding, swelling, and hematoma of the face, the patient had other signs of "difficult airway," so there were serious questions on when and how to manage the airway. Several strategies to address the airway were considered, the main point being an early versus later intubation. As the patient remained clinically stable, she was conservatively managed with local hemostasis and coagulopathy reversal. The patient was transferred to the intensive care unit, where she remained stable and was successfully discharged after restart on warfarin. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: When faced with an oropharyngeal hemorrhage, emergency physicians may be compelled to secure and protect the airway. This could be achieved by planning several strategies. Nevertheless, in selected patients, and considering the circumstances, not addressing the airway is a reasonable and justifiable alternative.

Efeitos do exercício em choque cardiogênico e balão intra-aórtico: um relato de caso / The Effects of Exercise on Cardiogenic Shock with an Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump: A Case Report

O presente relato de caso descreve o programa de exercícios aplicado a um paciente do sexo masculino, de 54 anos, internado com choque cardiogênico, aguardando transplante cardíaco e assistido por balão intra-aórtico, um dispositivo de suporte circulatório mecânico temporário. O dispositivo de suporte circulatório mecânico temporário, um balão intra-aórtico, foi colocado na artéria subclávia esquerda, possibilitando o protocolo de exercícios. Antes e após um protocolo de exercícios, foram obtidos dados a partir de cateter de Swan-Ganz, amostra de sangue, peptídeo natriurético cerebral (NT-proBNP), proteína C reativa de alta sensibilidade (PCR-as), teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6min) e medição da saturação venosa de oxigênio (SvO2). O protocolo de treinamento físico envolveu a utilização de um cicloergômetro adaptado ao leito, sem carga, uma vez ao dia, por no máximo 30 minutos, até o limite da tolerância. Não foram observados eventos adversos tampouco relacionados ao deslocamento do balão intra-aórtico durante o protocolo de exercícios. O programa de exercícios resultou em maior SvO2 com aumento do TC6min e menores escores de dispneia de Borg (312 metros vs. 488 metros e cinco pontos vs. três pontos, respectivamente). Após completar o protocolo de exercícios de dez dias, o paciente foi submetido a uma cirurgia de transplante cardíaco sem complicações e recuperação total na UTI. O presente estudo demonstrou que o exercício é uma opção viável para pacientes com choque cardiogênico em uso de balão intra-aórtico e que é bem tolerado, além de não haver relatos de eventos adversos.

Síndrome de Takotsubo como complicação de ablação septal por cateteres de radiofrequência: primeiro relato de caso / Takotsubo syndrome as a complication of septal ablation with radiofrequency catheters: first case report

Síndrome de takotsubo é uma disfunção miocárdica causada por diversos fatores, como estresse emocional, infecção por COVID, cirurgias e como descrito mais recentemente, ablação de fibrilação atrial. A ablação septal por radiofrequência é uma alternativa a miectomia cirúrgica e ablação por etanol. Em nossa instituição o uso de ablação por cateteres de radiofrequência é utilizado como primeira linha de tratamento para obstruções graves sintomáticas refratarias ao tratamento clinico. As complicações da ablação por radiofrequência incluem embolia, tamponamento pericárdico e aumento paradoxal do gradiente levando a obstrução aguda de via de saída de ventrículo esquerdo. RELATO DO CASO: mulher, 64 anos, portadora de cardiomiopatia hipertrófica obstrutiva com gradiente medioventricular de 78mmHg. Foi submetida a ablação por cateter de radiofrequência guiada por ecocardiografia conforme protocolo institucional (cateter terapêutico com ponta de 8mm até redução de gradiente >25% ou hiperrefringencia característica na região de aceleração do gradiente) com redução aguda do gradiente intraoperatório de 65 para 30mmhg. O termino do procedimento as 17:30, paciente transferida para UTI onde, as 20h apresentou pico hipertensivo durante tentativa de extubação, hematoma no sitio de punção seguida por hipotensão arterial. Realizado ecocardiografia a beira leito as 22h, demonstrando acinesia em região media e apical de VE não observadas na ecocardiografia realizada quatro horas antes. A paciente permaneceu entubada com medidas de suporte (noradrenalina e posteriormente vasopressina por 48h), com melhora progressiva da função ventricular até normalização da função ventricular ao final do terceiro dia. Pelo período prolongado de intubação a paciente desenvolveu pneumonia associada a Ventilação mecânica, evoluindo no 10 dia para óbito por possível obstrução de vias aéreas, associada a choque séptico. CONCLUSÃO: este é o primeiro relato de caso de síndrome de takotsubo como complicação de ablação septal por radiofrequência. Com o aumento das indicações do procedimento é necessário reconhecimento deste potencial complicação pela equipe de terapia intensiva.

Resolution of atrial fibrillation after radiofrequency septal ablation: case report

Atrial fibrillation is a multifactorial disease. The incidence of atrial fibrillation in cardiomyopathy is underestimated, and clinical and interventional treatment is faced with expectations of high recurrence rates. According to the new treatment guidelines for atrial fibrillation, the control of comorbidities must go hand in hand with symptom control and prevention of embolic events. Although surgical treatment of septal reduction (myectomy)has not reduced the incidence of atrial fibrillation, we do not yet know how new gradient reduction approaches may impact AF burden. Here, we have the first case report of atrial remodeling following radiofrequency septal ablation, reducing the burden of atrial fibrillation. CASE REPORT: Woman, 64 years old, with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, three symptomatic crises in the last year using amiodarone 400 mg per day and metoprolol 100 mg. Ejection Fraction 70%m septum 18 mm, LA 42mm, gradient 77 mmHg and presence of systolic anterior movement (SAM) with moderate mitral reflux. Ablation of the interventricular septum via transseptal and retro aortic routes was performed according to the protocol with gradient reduction and septal hyperrefringence. During the manipulation of the catheter in the left atrium, a new moderate pericardial effusion was observed, and it was decided not to perform concomitant pulmonary vein isolation (initial planning). Pericardial drainage and heparinization reversal were performed, with discharge from the ICU in 3 days. There was an improvement in symptoms over the first three months­and a progressive reduction of mitral insufficiency and SAM. Amiodarone was withdrawn after the third month, and there were no new arrhythmic events one year after septum ablation. At the end of one year, the echocardiogram showed no evidence of SAM or ventricular gradient, ejection fraction of 58%, septum of 12 mm and LA 36 mm. Thus, radiofrequency septal ablation allowed atrial remodeling and reduced AF burden. The long-term effects of this therapy can be beneficial when there is no symptom control with usual strategies.

Epidemiological profile of patients with heart diseases with indications for palliative care

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in Western countries, with heart failure being the final pathway of heart disease. Despite this, few patients are referred for Palliative Approach (PA). There is no consensus about the indication or the right time to refer patients to PA, whose main objective is to improve the patient's quality of life. OBJECTIVE: Characterize the epidemiological profile of patients with heart diseases with indication for PA in a hospital specialized in cardiology. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study with analysis of 554 patients included for PA from Feb 2018 to Feb 2022. Frequency, median, percentage, mean, maximum and minimum value were used for statistical analysis RESULTS: The sample comprised of 554 patients (P), for PA 270( 57% ) were male, mean age 71 ±14 years, 179(37%) Catholic, 91(20%) Evangelical, With most frequent medical history of arrhythmia 242(51%), ventricular dysfunction 297(62%), Coronary artery bypass graft surgery 109 (23%) and stroke 175(15%). The most frequent clinical complains were: Dyspnea 329(59.30%), Lower limb edema 96(17.39%), diagnosis at the time of PA was renal failure 351 P (74.4%) and of these 148 (31%) needed hemodialysis, Heart failure 177(31.9%) (HF), Sepsis/Septic shock 146(26,3), stroke 113(20%). The mean ejection fraction was 40%. As for performance in activities of daily living we used the Palliative performance Scale (PPS) where 282 (71,1%) needed life support. We evaluated the prognosis with the PPI scale, 345(56.8%) with high short-term mortality. Regarding treatment, 277(58,7%) of patients with PA had CVC, 277(58.7%) received broad spectrum antibiotics, 196(41.5%) dobutamine, 138(30%) noradrenaline, 164 (34.7%) on mecanichl ventilation 130(27.5%) on hemodialysis 116(24.6%) sedated, 81 (8%) with IAP. Among these patients 295(52.9%) died during hospitalization and 126 (22%) were able to be discharged. Only 26(4.7%) did not accept the PA protocol, the most frequent site of the PA was 245(51.1%) in the ICU, followed by the ward with 227 (48%) P. CONCLUSION: In our sample we identified that patients with heart disease in PA still receive futile interventions and therapies, and the most frequent site of palliation is the ICU. This shows a later indication for PC , in patients with advanced HF and at the end of life. Strategies and institutional protocols are needed for an earlier indication, in order to promote integral care and better qualy of life.

Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction 99th Percentile versus Diagnostic Cut-off Value of Troponin I for Acute Coronary Syndromes. / Troponina I por Percentil 99 da Definição Universal de Infarto do Miocárdio versus Ponto de Corte de Melhor Acurácia em Síndromes Coronárias Agudas.

BACKGROUND: Contemporary diagnosis of ACS and risk stratification are essential for appropriate management and reduction of mortality and recurrent ischemic events, in the acute phase of disease and after hospitalization. The Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction recommends the detection of troponin levels above the 99th percentile. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the occurrence of early death and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients without elevation of troponin (<0.034 ng/mL), patients with mild elevation (above the 99th percentile [>0.034 ng/mL and <0.12 ng/mL)], and patients with significant elevation of troponin (above the diagnostic cutoff for AMI defined by the troponin kit (≥0.12 ng/mL)]; and to analyze the impact of troponin on the indication for invasive strategy and myocardial revascularization. METHODS: Cross-sectional cohort study of patients with ACS with assessment of peak troponin I, risk score, prospective analysis of 30-day clinical outcomes and two-sided statistical tests, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: A total of 494 patients with ACS were evaluated. Troponin > 99th percentile and below the cutoff point, as well as values above the cutoff, were associated with higher incidence of composite endpoint (p<0.01) and higher rates of percutaneous or surgical revascularization procedures (p<0.01), without significative difference in 30-day mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Troponin levels above the 99th percentile defined by the universal definition of AMI play a prognostic role and add useful information to the clinical diagnosis and risk scores by identifying those patients who would most benefit from invasive risk stratification and coronary revascularization procedures.

FUNDAMENTO: O diagnóstico de síndrome coronária aguda (SCA) e a estratificação de risco contemporâneos são fundamentais para o manejo apropriado e redução da mortalidade e eventos isquêmicos recorrentes, tanto na fase aguda quanto após hospitalização. A Definição Universal de Infarto do Miocárdio recomenda a detecção de curva de troponina acima do limite superior do percentil 99. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a ocorrência de óbito e infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) na fase precoce em pacientes sem elevação de troponina (<0,034 ng/mL), pacientes com mínima elevação [acima do percentil 99 (>0,034 ng/mL e <0,12 ng/mL)], e pacientes com maiores elevações [acima do ponto de corte para IAM pelo kit utilizado (≥0,12 ng/mL)]; e avaliar o impacto dos níveis de troponina na indicação de estratégia invasiva e revascularização miocárdica. MÉTODOS: Estudo de corte transversal de pacientes com SCA com avaliação do pico da troponina I, escores de risco, análise prospectiva de desfechos clínicos até 30 dias e testes bilaterais de significância, com nível de significância adotado sendo < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 494 pacientes com SCA. Troponina > percentil 99 e abaixo do ponto de corte, assim como valores maiores (acima do ponto de corte), foram associados à maior incidência do desfecho composto (p<0,01) e de revascularização percutânea ou cirúrgica (p<0,01), sem diferença significante em mortalidade até 30 dias. CONCLUSÕES: Valores de troponina elevados acima do percentil 99 pela Definição Universal de IAM apresentam papel prognóstico e agregam informação útil ao diagnóstico clínico e escores de risco na identificação de pacientes com maior probabilidade de benefício com estratificação invasiva e procedimentos de revascularização coronária.

Troponina I por percentil 99 da definição universal de infarto do miocárdio versus ponto de corte de melhor acurácia em síndromes coronárias agudas / Universal definition of myocardial infarction 99th percentile versus diagnostic cut-off value of troponin I for acute coronary syndromes

FUNDAMENTO: O diagnóstico de síndrome coronária aguda (SCA) e a estratificação de risco contemporâneos são fundamentais para o manejo apropriado e redução da mortalidade e eventos isquêmicos recorrentes, tanto na fase aguda quanto após hospitalização. A Definição Universal de Infarto do Miocárdio recomenda a detecção de curva de troponina acima do limite superior do percentil 99. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a ocorrência de óbito e infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) na fase precoce em pacientes sem elevação de troponina (<0,034 ng/mL), pacientes com mínima elevação [acima do percentil 99 (>0,034 ng/mL e <0,12 ng/mL)], e pacientes com maiores elevações [acima do ponto de corte para IAM pelo kit utilizado (≥0,12 ng/mL)]; e avaliar o impacto dos níveis de troponina na indicação de estratégia invasiva e revascularização miocárdica. MÉTODOS: Estudo de corte transversal de pacientes com SCA com avaliação do pico da troponina I, escores de risco, análise prospectiva de desfechos clínicos até 30 dias e testes bilaterais de significância, com nível de significância adotado sendo < 0,05. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 494 pacientes com SCA. Troponina > percentil 99 e abaixo do ponto de corte, assim como valores maiores (acima do ponto de corte), foram associados à maior incidência do desfecho composto (p<0,01) e de revascularização percutânea ou cirúrgica (p<0,01), sem diferença significante em mortalidade até 30 dias. CONCLUSÕES: Valores de troponina elevados acima do percentil 99 pela Definição Universal de IAM apresentam papel prognóstico e agregam informação útil ao diagnóstico clínico e escores de risco na identificação de pacientes com maior probabilidade de benefício com estratificação invasiva e procedimentos de revascularização coronária.

BACKGROUND: Contemporary diagnosis of ACS and risk stratification are essential for appropriate management and reduction of mortality and recurrent ischemic events, in the acute phase of disease and after hospitalization. The Universal Definition of Myocardial Infarction recommends the detection of troponin levels above the 99th percentile. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the occurrence of early death and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in patients without elevation of troponin (<0.034 ng/mL), patients with mild elevation (above the 99th percentile [>0.034 ng/mL and <0,12 ng/mL)], and patients with significant elevation of troponin (above the diagnostic cutoff for AMI defined by the troponin kit (≥0.12 ng/mL)]; and to analyze the impact of troponin on the indication for invasive strategy and myocardial revascularization. METHODS: cross-sectional cohort study of patients with ACS with assessment of peak troponin I, risk score, prospective analysis of 30-day clinical outcomes and two-sided statistical tests, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: A total of 494 patients with ACS were evaluated. Troponin > 99the percentile and below the cutoff point, as well as values above the cutoff, were associated with higher incidence of composite endpoint (p<0.01) and higher rates of percutaneous or surgical revascularization procedures (p<0.01), without significative difference in 30-day mortality. CONCLUSIONS: troponin levels above the 99the percentile defined by the universal definition of AMI play a prognostic role and add useful information to the clinical diagnosis and risk scores by identifying those patients who would most benefit from invasive risk stratification and coronary revascularization procedures.

Compressão do tronco da coronária esquerda secundária à hipertensão arterial pulmonar por esquistossomose: relato de caso / Compression of the left main coronary artery secondary to pulmonary arterial hypertension due to schistosomiasis: case report

INTRODUÇÃO: A compressão extrínseca de coronárias (CEXC) é causa infrequente de angina porém grave devido ao risco de morte súbita, angina refratária e disfunção miocárdica. Cerca de 7-29% dos pacientes com hipertensão pulmonar apresentam sintomas anginosos que podem estar relacionados à CEXC pela Artéria Pulmonar (AP). O diâmetro da AP > 40mm é o principal determinante angiográfico de risco para CEXC. RELATO DE CASO: J.L.P.S., 46 anos, masculino, esquistossomose diagnosticada em 2000. Histórico de esplenectomia e hemorragia digestiva alta (HDA) por hipertensão portal, e episódio de infarto agudo do miocárdio tipo II em 2019. Diagnóstico de diabetes mellitus tipo 2, sem hipertensão, dislipidemia ou outros fatores de risco cardiovascular. Paciente referiu quadro de angina CCS III há dois anos; cintilografia de perfusão do miocárdio com teste ergométrico (julho/2021) mostrou hipocaptação transitória em parede anterosseptal do ventrículo esquerdo (carga isquêmica 11%). Realizada angiografia coronária eletiva (agosto/2021) que demonstrou suboclusão em óstio e corpo do tronco da coronária esquerda (TCE), sem outras lesões. Indicada angiotomografia de coronárias (agosto/2021) que evidenciou compressão do TCE por dilatação da AP (50mm) e escore de cálcio de zero. Após discussão em Heart team, foi contraindicada a realização de procedimento invasivo (cirurgia ou angioplastia) por elevado risco cirúrgico, histórico de varizes esofágicas e HDA, sendo otimizado o tratamento clínico farmacológico (metformina, gliclazida, carvedilol, espironolactona, sildenafil, ambrisentana e furosemida). Durante seguimento clínico, realizou teste cardiopulmonar (fevereiro/2022) com baixa capacidade funcional (VO2 máx: 20 ml.kg-1.min-1) e isquemia com infradesnível do segmento ST no esforço submáximo e na recuperação. DISCUSSÃO: O tratamento ideal para a CEXC secundária a dilatação da AP por hipertensão pulmonar não está bem estabelecido, porém a intervenção coronária percutânea tem se mostrado eficaz e segura. O tratamento cirúrgico costuma ser reservado àqueles com outra indicação de cirurgia cardíaca. A esquistossomose mansônica, causa prevalente de varizes esofágicas e hipertensão pulmonar no Brasil, torna o tratamento da CEXC desafiador devido ao risco elevado de sangramento. CONCLUSÃO: A hipótese de CEXC deve ser investigada em pacientes com hipertensão pulmonar com sintomas anginosos e seu tratamento deve ser individualizado e discutido em Heart Team.

Treinamento de Não-Cardiologistas pode Melhorar os Resultados do Tratamento de Infarto Agudo do Miocárdio com Supra de ST / Training Non-Cardiologists Could Improve the Treatment Results of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Resumo Fundamento De acordo com a Organização Mundial da Saúde, países emergentes terão um crescimento considerável no número de ataques cardíacos e mortes relacionadas. Um dos principais problemas médicos no Brasil é a mortalidade causada por infarto agudo do miocárdio com supra de ST (IAMCSST). A Sociedade de Cardiologia do Estado de São Paulo nunca treinou não-cardiologistas para atendimentos de emergência. Os pacientes normalmente buscam ajuda em prontos-socorros, em vez de chamar a ambulância. Objetivo Nosso objetivo foi reduzir as taxas de mortalidade hospitalar causada por infarto agudo do miocárdio ao treinar profissionais da emergência na cidade de São Paulo. Métodos Utilizamos um programa de treinamento para as equipes de cinco hospitais com > 100 pacientes internados com IAMCSST por ano, e pelo menos 15% de mortes hospitalares relacionadas ao IAMCSST. Realizamos treinamentos online, organizamos de dois a quatro eventos para até 400 participantes, fizemos folders e panfletos informativos. A análise estatística utilizou o teste para comparação de duas proporções, com p <0,05. Resultados Quase 200 médicos e 350 enfermeiros participaram de pelo menos um treinamento de maio de 2010 até dezembro de 2013. Inicialmente, muitos médicos da emergência não reconheciam um infarto agudo do miocárdio no eletrocardiograma, mas a tele-ecocardiografia é usada em alguns departamentos da emergência para determinar o diagnóstico. A taxa de mortalidade nos cinco hospitais caiu de 25,6%, em 2009, para 18,2%, em 2010 (p=0,005). Depois da conclusão do período de treinamento, as mortes relacionadas ao IAMCSST em todos os hospitais públicos de São Paulo diminuíram de 14,31%, em 2009, para 11,25%, em 2014 (p<0,0001). Conclusão Mesmo programas simplificados de treinamento de pessoal da emergência pode reduzir muito as taxas de morte por infarto agudo do miocárdio em países em desenvolvimento.

Abstract Background According to the World Health Organization, emerging countries will have an enormous growth in the number of heart attacks and related deaths. The main medical issue in Brazil is mortality caused by acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The Society of Cardiology in the State of São Paulo has never trained non-cardiologists as emergency personnel. Patients usually seek help from emergency departments instead of calling for an ambulance. Objectives We aimed at reducing in-hospital death rates from acute myocardial infarction by training emergency personnel in the city of Sao Paulo. Methods We used a training program for the personnel of five hospitals with >100 patients admitted with STEMI per year, and at least 15% in-hospital STEMI-associated mortality rate. We performed internet training, biannual-quarterly symposia for up to 400 participants, informative folders and handouts. Statistical analysis used the two proportion comparison test with p <0.05. Results Nearly 200 physicians and 350 nurses attended at least one training from May 2010 to December 2013. Initially, many emergency physicians could not recognize an acute myocardial infarction on the electrocardiogram, but tele-electrocardiography is used in some emergency departments to determine the diagnosis. The death rate in the five hospitals decreased from 25.6%, in 2009, to 18.2%, in 2010 (p=0.005). After the entire period of training, the STEMI-associated death rate in all public hospitals of São Paulo decreased from 14.31%, in 2009, to 11.25%, in 2014 (p<0.0001). Conclusion Even simple training programs for emergency personnel can greatly reduce acute myocardial infarction death rates in undeveloped countries.

Primary pituitary abscess: case report and suggested management algorithm.

PURPOSE: To describe a case of successful treatment of a patient with a rare primary pituitary abscess (PA) and propose a management algorithm. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: PA is an infrequent entity that can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated. PAs can be primary or secondary, the latter in the presence of sellar anomalies, risk factors or a systemic or local infection. Symptoms are nonspecific, making clinical suspicion imperative. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the radiological tool of choice. Despite some characteristic radiographic signs, oftentimes the diagnosis is not suspected until surgical exploration. Treatment includes transsphenoidal decompression surgery with sampling of purulent material and abscess wall for appropriate microbiological staining and cultures (bacteria, mycobacteria and fungus) and prolonged antibiotic treatment. Pituitary hormonal deficiencies must be addressed as well. METHODS AND RESULTS: We describe a case of a female patient who presented with headaches, anorexia and bitemporal hemianopsia. MRI revealed a peripherally enhancing sellar mass. Transsphenoidal surgery was performed, with intra-operative finding of purulent material. Cytology confirmed the presence of abundant leucocytes, but no pathogen was isolated. Patient completed three weeks of antibiotic therapy, with good clinical and radiological response. Headaches and visual deficits resolved. Hormonal substitution therapy was needed for six months after surgery. CONCLUSION: This report highlights the importance of early recognition and treatment of PAs. The diagnosis is commonly very difficult before surgery, due to overlapping clinical, radiological and laboratorial findings with various other pathologies. Prompt management, with surgical decompression and appropriate antibiotic treatment, typically results in a low mortality rate and higher chance of full recovery of pituitary function. We propose a management algorithm for sellar masses suspected of being PAs.

Training Non-Cardiologists Could Improve the Treatment Results of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction. / Treinamento de Não-Cardiologistas pode Melhorar os Resultados do Tratamento de Infarto Agudo do Miocárdio com Supra de ST.

BACKGROUND: According to the World Health Organization, emerging countries will have an enormous growth in the number of heart attacks and related deaths. The main medical issue in Brazil is mortality caused by acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The Society of Cardiology in the State of São Paulo has never trained non-cardiologists as emergency personnel. Patients usually seek help from emergency departments instead of calling for an ambulance. OBJECTIVES: We aimed at reducing in-hospital death rates from acute myocardial infarction by training emergency personnel in the city of Sao Paulo. METHODS: We used a training program for the personnel of five hospitals with >100 patients admitted with STEMI per year, and at least 15% in-hospital STEMI-associated mortality rate. We performed internet training, biannual-quarterly symposia for up to 400 participants, informative folders and handouts. Statistical analysis used the two proportion comparison test with p <0.05. RESULTS: Nearly 200 physicians and 350 nurses attended at least one training from May 2010 to December 2013. Initially, many emergency physicians could not recognize an acute myocardial infarction on the electrocardiogram, but tele-electrocardiography is used in some emergency departments to determine the diagnosis. The death rate in the five hospitals decreased from 25.6%, in 2009, to 18.2%, in 2010 (p=0.005). After the entire period of training, the STEMI-associated death rate in all public hospitals of São Paulo decreased from 14.31%, in 2009, to 11.25%, in 2014 (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: Even simple training programs for emergency personnel can greatly reduce acute myocardial infarction death rates in undeveloped countries.

FUNDAMENTO: De acordo com a Organização Mundial da Saúde, países emergentes terão um crescimento considerável no número de ataques cardíacos e mortes relacionadas. Um dos principais problemas médicos no Brasil é a mortalidade causada por infarto agudo do miocárdio com supra de ST (IAMCSST). A Sociedade de Cardiologia do Estado de São Paulo nunca treinou não-cardiologistas para atendimentos de emergência. Os pacientes normalmente buscam ajuda em prontos-socorros, em vez de chamar a ambulância. OBJETIVO: Nosso objetivo foi reduzir as taxas de mortalidade hospitalar causada por infarto agudo do miocárdio ao treinar profissionais da emergência na cidade de São Paulo. MÉTODOS: Utilizamos um programa de treinamento para as equipes de cinco hospitais com > 100 pacientes internados com IAMCSST por ano, e pelo menos 15% de mortes hospitalares relacionadas ao IAMCSST. Realizamos treinamentos online, organizamos de dois a quatro eventos para até 400 participantes, fizemos folders e panfletos informativos. A análise estatística utilizou o teste para comparação de duas proporções, com p <0,05. RESULTADOS: Quase 200 médicos e 350 enfermeiros participaram de pelo menos um treinamento de maio de 2010 até dezembro de 2013. Inicialmente, muitos médicos da emergência não reconheciam um infarto agudo do miocárdio no eletrocardiograma, mas a tele-ecocardiografia é usada em alguns departamentos da emergência para determinar o diagnóstico. A taxa de mortalidade nos cinco hospitais caiu de 25,6%, em 2009, para 18,2%, em 2010 (p=0,005). Depois da conclusão do período de treinamento, as mortes relacionadas ao IAMCSST em todos os hospitais públicos de São Paulo diminuíram de 14,31%, em 2009, para 11,25%, em 2014 (p<0,0001). CONCLUSÃO: Mesmo programas simplificados de treinamento de pessoal da emergência pode reduzir muito as taxas de morte por infarto agudo do miocárdio em países em desenvolvimento.

Treinamento de Não-Cardiologistas pode Melhorar os Resultados do Tratamento de Infarto Agudo do Miocárdio com Supra de ST / Training Non-Cardiologists Could Improve the Treatment Results of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction

VFUNDAMENTO: De acordo com a Organização Mundial da Saúde, países emergentes terão um crescimento considerável no número de ataques cardíacos e mortes relacionadas. Um dos principais problemas médicos no Brasil é a mortalidade causada por infarto agudo do miocárdio com supra de ST (IAMCSST). A Sociedade de Cardiologia do Estado de São Paulo nunca treinou não-cardiologistas para atendimentos de emergência. Os pacientes normalmente buscam ajuda em prontos-socorros, em vez de chamar a ambulância. OBJETIVO: Nosso objetivo foi reduzir as taxas de mortalidade hospitalar causada por infarto agudo do miocárdio ao treinar profissionais da emergência na cidade de São Paulo. MÉTODOS: Utilizamos um programa de treinamento para as equipes de cinco hospitais com > 100 pacientes internados com IAMCSST por ano, e pelo menos 15% de mortes hospitalares relacionadas ao IAMCSST. Realizamos treinamentos online, organizamos de dois a quatro eventos para até 400 participantes, fizemos folders e panfletos informativos. A análise estatística utilizou o teste para comparação de duas proporções, com p <0,05. RESULTADOS: Quase 200 médicos e 350 enfermeiros participaram de pelo menos um treinamento de maio de 2010 até dezembro de 2013. Inicialmente, muitos médicos da emergência não reconheciam um infarto agudo do miocárdio no eletrocardiograma, mas a tele-ecocardiografia é usada em alguns departamentos da emergência para determinar o diagnóstico. A taxa de mortalidade nos cinco hospitais caiu de 25,6%, em 2009, para 18,2%, em 2010 (p=0,005). Depois da conclusão do período de treinamento, as mortes relacionadas ao IAMCSST em todos os hospitais públicos de São Paulo diminuíram de 14,31%, em 2009, para 11,25%, em 2014 (p<0,0001).

BACKGROUND: According to the World Health Organization, emerging countries will have an enormous growth in the number of heart attacks and related deaths. The main medical issue in Brazil is mortality caused by acute ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The Society of Cardiology in the State of São Paulo has never trained non-cardiologists as emergency personnel. Patients usually seek help from emergency departments instead of calling for an ambulance. OBJECTIVES: We aimed at reducing in-hospital death rates from acute myocardial infarction by training emergency personnel in the city of Sao Paulo. METHODS: We used a training program for the personnel of five hospitals with >100 patients admitted with STEMI per year, and at least 15% in-hospital STEMI-associated mortality rate. We performed internet training, biannual-quarterly symposia for up to 400 participants, informative folders and handouts. Statistical analysis used the two proportion comparison test with p <0.05. RESULTS: Nearly 200 physicians and 350 nurses attended at least one training from May 2010 to December 2013. Initially, many emergency physicians could not recognize an acute myocardial infarction on the electrocardiogram, but tele-electrocardiography is used in some emergency departments to determine the diagnosis. The death rate in the five hospitals decreased from 25.6%, in 2009, to 18.2%, in 2010 (p=0.005). After the entire period of training, the STEMI-associated death rate in all public hospitals of São Paulo decreased from 14.31%, in 2009, to 11.25%, in 2014 (p <0.0001). CONCLUSION: Even simple training programs for emergency personnel can greatly reduce acute myocardial infarction death rates in undeveloped countries.

Reappraising the need for a control CT in mild head injury patients on anticoagulation.

BACKGROUND: Head injury is a frequent reason for admission to the emergency department. In parallel, there is a growing use of anticoagulants in an increasingly aging population, which renders this particular group of trauma patients more frequent. In several countries, including Portugal, a 24-h surveillance period followed by repetition of head computed tomography (CT) is the standard procedure for these patients. However, these recommendations have not been based on studies of prevalence of intracranial hemorrhages in control head CTs, namely in this group of anticoagulated patients. This study intends to evaluate the prevalence of de novo intracranial hemorrhages in control head CTs in anticoagulated patients. METHOD: An observational study was carried out, which included patients admitted to Hospital de Braga between June 2017 and January 2018, victims of head injury and on anticoagulation therapy, whose admission head CT excluded intracranial hemorrhage. RESULTS: We collected a total of 201 patients, with a mean age of 81.6 years, and 57.5% of them were prescribed warfarin; 181 of these patients repeated the head CT 24 h later. Of these 181 patients, 3 (1.66%) exhibited intracranial hemorrhage in control CT, without surgical indication. All patients were followed up 1 month after the trauma, and there was no readmission requiring hospitalization, surgery or death. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, de novo intracranial hemorrhage in control head CT of anticoagulated patients is rare. We propose that these patients may be discharged if the admission CT does not reveal intracranial hemorrhage, providing that they are accompanied by a caregiver and informed about red flags.