Non-valvular atrial fibrillation in patients on peritoneal dialysis, prevalence, treatment and professionals involved.

Atrial fibrillation is the most frequent chronic arrhythmia in patients with chronic kidney disease. Oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists and now direct oral anticoagulants have been and are the fundamental pillars for the prevention of thromboembolic events. However, there are no randomized clinical trials on the risk-benefit profile of oral anticoagulation in patients with chronic kidney disease stage 5 on peritoneal dialysis and there is little evidence in the literature in this population. The objective of our study was to know the prevalence, treatment and professionals involved in the management of atrial fibrillation in peritoneal dialysis patients. For this purpose, we performed a descriptive analysis through a survey sent to different peritoneal dialysis units in Spain. A total of 1,403 patients on peritoneal dialysis were included in the study, of whom 186 (13.2%) had non-valvular atrial fibrillation. In addition, the assessment of the scores of thromboembolic and bleeding risks for the indication of oral anticoagulation was mainly carried out by the cardiologist (60% of the units), as well as its prescription (cardiologist 47% or in consensus with the nephrologist 43%). In summary, patients on peritoneal dialysis have a remarkable prevalence of non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Patients frequently receive oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists, as well as direct oral anticoagulants. The data obtained regarding the scores used for the assessment of thromboembolic and bleeding risk, treatment and involvement by Nephrology indicates that there is a need for training and involvement of the nephrologist in this pathology.

Diagnosis and treatment of deep vein thrombosis of the lower and upper limbs. 2024 recommendations of the thromboembolic disease group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the limbs is a common disease and causes significant morbidity and mortality. It is frequently the prelude to pulmonary embolism (PE), it can recur in 30% of patients and in 25-40% of cases they can develop post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS), with a significant impact in functional status and quality of life. This document contains the recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of acute DVT from the Thromboembolic Disease group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI). PE and thrombosis of unusual venous territories (cerebral, renal, mesenteric, superficial, etc.) are outside its scope, as well as thrombosis associated with catheter and thrombosis associated with cancer, which due to their peculiarities will be the subject of other positioning documents of the Thromboembolic Disease group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI).

[Traumatic brain injury in patients over 65 years of age attended in the emergency department, characteristics and complications]. / Traumatismo craneoencefálico en pacientes mayores de 65 años atendidos en urgencias; características y complicaciones.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Ageing is associated with an increased risk of falls and trauma. The aim of the study was to assess the characteristics of patients over 65 years of age who consulted the ED for traumatic brain injury (TBI) in 2022, their relationship with cognitive impairment, functional dependence, use of oral antiplatelet/anticoagulant drugs and complications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective study conducted from 1 January to 31 December 2022. Demographic data were collected: age, sex, origin; cardiovascular risk factors; cognitive impairment using the Pfeiffer questionnaire; physical disability according to the Barthel Index; number of drugs; use of antiplatelet and oral anticoagulant (OAC); mechanism of fall; performance of cranial X-ray/CT, and presence of complications: intracranial haemorrhage (ICH), death. RESULTS: 599 patients were included. The mean age was 82.3±8.2 years. 63.8% were female and 36.2% male. 75.3% were from home, 24.7% from residence. No dementia in 61.4%, moderate-severe dementia in 38.6%. 58.1% were functionally independent, 25.1% had moderate-severe dependence. 85.7% had CVRF: HT 476 (79.5%), dyslipidaemia 354 (59.1%), DM 217 (36.2%), obesity 173 (28.9%), smoking 15 (2.5%). The number of drugs per patient was 9.2±4.3. Polypharmacy was present in 94.7% of patients. 35.9% were taking antiplatelet drugs and 30.2% anticoagulants. Intracranial haemorrhage occurred in 11 (2.3%) patients. Four (0.7%) patients died. CONCLUSIONS: The TBI in our study was caused by low-energy trauma in a female patient, without dementia, functionally independent and with polypharmacy. There were few serious complications: 2.3% ICH and 0.7% deaths. 90.1% of ICH occurred in patients on antiplatelet and/or OAC therapy.

Fibrilación auricular no valvular en pacientes en diálisis peritoneal: prevalencia, tratamiento y profesionales implicados / Non-valvular atrial fibrillation in patients on peritoneal dialysis: prevalence, treatment and professionals involved

La fibrilación auricular (FA) es la arritmia crónica más frecuente en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica (ERC). La anticoagulación oral con antagonistas de la vitamina K (AVK) y actualmente los anticoagulantes orales de acción directa (ACOD) han sido el pilar fundamental para la prevención de eventos tromboembólicos. Sin embargo, no existen ensayos clínicos aleatorizados de su perfil riesgo-beneficio en pacientes con ERC estadio 5 en diálisis peritoneal (DP) y son pocas las evidencias en la literatura sobre esta población. El objetivo del estudio fue conocer la prevalencia, tratamiento y profesionales implicados en el manejo de la FA en DP en nuestro entorno mediante el análisis descriptivo de una encuesta enviada a diferentes unidades de DP de España. Se incluyeron en el estudio 1.403 pacientes en programa de DP, de los cuales 186 (13,2%) presentaban FA no valvular (FANV). Además, observamos que la valoración de los scores para el inicio del tratamiento anticoagulante la realizaba mayoritariamente el cardiólogo (60% de los centros), así como la prescripción de anticoagulación (cardiólogo 47% o en conjunto con el nefrólogo 43%). En conclusión, los pacientes en DP presentan una notable prevalencia de FANV. Reciben frecuentemente anticoagulación oral (ACO) con AVK, así como con ACOD. Los datos obtenidos respecto a las escalas utilizadas para la valoración de riesgo tromboembólico y de sangrado, tratamiento e implicación por parte de Nefrología indican que existe una necesidad de formación e involucramiento del nefrólogo en esta patología.(AU)

Atrial fibrillation is the most frequent chronic arrhythmia in patients with chronic kidney disease. Oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists and now direct oral anticoagulants have been and are the fundamental pillar for the prevention of thromboembolic events. However, there are no randomized clinical trials on the risk-benefit profile of oral anticoagulation in patients with chronic kidney disease stage 5 on peritoneal dialysis and there is little evidence in the literature in this population. The objective of our study was to know the prevalence, treatment and professionals involved in the management of atrial fibrillation in peritoneal dialysis patients. For this purpose, we performed a descriptive analysis through a survey sent to different peritoneal dialysis units in Spain. A total of 1403 patients on peritoneal dialysis were included in the study, of whom 186 (13.2%) had non-valvular atrial fibrillation. In addition, the assessment of the scores of thromboembolic and bleeding risks for the indication of oral anticoagulation was mainly carried out by the cardiologist (60% of the units), as well as its prescription (cardiologist 47% in consensus with the nephrologist 43%). In summary, patients on peritoneal dialysis have a remarkable prevalence of non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Patients frequently receive oral anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists, as well as direct oral anticoagulants. The data obtained regarding the scales used for the assessment of thromboembolic and bleeding risk, treatment and involvement by Nephrology indicates that there is a need for training and involvement of the nephrologist in this pathology.(AU)

Manejo de la trombosis venosa cerebral en España: estudio descriptivo MOTIVATE / Management of cerebral venous thrombosis in Spain: MOTIVATE descriptive study

Introducción: La trombosis venosa cerebral (TVC) es una causa poco común de ictus que afecta principalmente a adultos jóvenes. Un diagnóstico precoz y preciso puede reducir la tasa y gravedad de las complicaciones. Objetivo: Analizar las características clínicas, manejo y tratamiento de la TVC en diferentes centros de nuestro país. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo multicéntrico de pacientes hospitalizados por TVC entre 2008 y 2017 en 11 centros sanitarios en nuestro país. Resultados: Se incluyeron 256 pacientes, edad media 49,8 ± 18,7 años y el 51% fueron mujeres. Los síntomas más frecuentes fueron: cefalea (73%), déficits focales (50%), crisis epilépticas (33%) y encefalopatía (21%). Las localizaciones más frecuentes fueron: seno longitudinal superior (12,5%), transverso (10,9%) y afectación de dos o más senos o venas (66,4%). La etiología conocida más frecuente fue la trombofilia (24%), siendo la mutación de la protrombina G20210A la más común (19%). El 46% fue tratado con antitrombóticos durante 3-6 meses, el 21% durante un año y un 22,6% de los pacientes requirieron anticoagulación indefinida. En un 5% de los sujetos fue preciso terapia endovascular y un 33% requirió neurocirugía. En relación al pronóstico, el 75% fueron independientes a los 3 meses con una puntuación en la escala de Rankin modificada (mRS) ≤ 2 y la presencia de papiledema (p = 0,03), déficit focal (p = 0,001) y encefalopatía (p < 0,001) se relacionaron significativamente con mal pronóstico (mRS > 3). La tasa de mortalidad intrahospitalaria fue del 4,3% y el 6,3% de los pacientes fallecieron a los 3 meses. Conclusión:La diversidad de factores de riesgo y la presentación variable suponen un desafío en el diagnóstico y tratamiento de la TVC. Para mejorar el pronóstico y reducir la mortalidad es fundamental la instauración de protocolos en el manejo de esta patología.(AU)

Introduction: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon cause of stroke that mainly affects young adults. Early, accurate diagnosis can reduce the rate and severity of complications. Objective: The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical characteristics, management, and treatment of CVT in different centres in Spain. Methods: We conducted a multicentre, retrospective, descriptive study of patients hospitalised due to CVT between 2008 and 2017 at 11 Spanish centres. Results: We included 256 patients, with a mean age (SD) of 49.8 (18.7) years; 51% of patients were women. The most frequent symptoms were headache (73%), focal deficits (50%), epileptic seizures (33%), and encephalopathy (21%). The most frequent localisations were the superior sagittal sinus (12.5%), the transverse sinus (10.9%), and 2 or more sinuses or veins (66.4%). Thrombophilia was the most frequent known aetiology (24%), and was most commonly associated with the prothrombin G20210A mutation (19%). Forty-six percent of patients were treated with antithrombotics for 3-6 months, 21% for one year, and 22.6% required indefinite anticoagulation. Endovascular therapy was performed in 5% of cases, and 33% required neurosurgery. Regarding outcomes, 75% of patients were independent at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤ 2), with papilloedema (P = .03), focal deficits (P = .001), and encephalopathy (P < .001) showing a statistically significant association with poor prognosis (mRS > 3). The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.3%, with a 3-month mortality rate of 6.3%. Conclusion: The diverse risk factors and variable presentation of CVT represent a challenge in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. To improve prognosis and reduce mortality, it is essential to establish management protocols for this entity.(AU)

Trombosis venosa cerebral / Cerebral venous thrombosis

La trombosis venosa cerebral forma parte de las llamadas trombosis en sitios inusuales. Se define como una oclusión en el territorio venoso cerebral. Su incidencia se encuentra en aumento progresivo, especialmente en países en vías de desarrollo. Se observa con más frecuencia en mujeres jóvenes, siendo los factores hormonales, como el embarazo o la anticoncepción hormonal, factores de riesgo principales en el desarrollo de esta afección. La clínica va a depender fundamentalmente de la topografía de la trombosis, con un diagnóstico de confirmación basado principalmente en las pruebas de imagen. El tratamiento consiste generalmente en la anticoagulación, pudiendo plantearse otras opciones según la gravedad del cuadro. En general, el pronóstico es mejor que el de otros trastornos vasculares intracraneales. En esta revisión se describe la evidencia actual disponible acerca de la trombosis venosa cerebral.(AU)

Cerebral venous thrombosis is part of the so-called thrombosis in unusual sites. It is defined as an occlusion in the cerebral venous territory. Its incidence is progressively increasing, especially in developing countries. It is more frequently observed in young women, with hormonal factors such as pregnancy or hormonal contraception being significant risk factors in the development of this condition. The clinical presentation will depend fundamentally on the topography of the thrombosis, with a confirmatory diagnosis based mainly on imaging tests. The treatment generally consists of anticoagulation, and other options may be considered depending on the severity of the case. Overall, the prognosis is better than that of other intracranial vascular disorders. This review describes the current evidence available regarding cerebral venous thrombosis.(AU)

Cerebral venous thrombosis.

Cerebral venous thrombosis is part of the so-called thrombosis in unusual sites. It is defined as an occlusion in the cerebral venous territory. Its incidence is progressively increasing, especially in developing countries. It is more frequently observed in young women, with hormonal factors such as pregnancy or hormonal contraception being significant risk factors in the development of this condition. The clinical presentation will depend fundamentally on the topography of the thrombosis, with a confirmatory diagnosis based mainly on imaging tests. The treatment generally consists of anticoagulation, and other options may be considered depending on the severity of the case. Overall, the prognosis is better than that of other intracranial vascular disorders. This review describes the current evidence available regarding cerebral venous thrombosis.

Novel stroke prevention strategies following catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation.

Stroke prevention following successful catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation remains a controversial topic. Oral anticoagulation is associated with a significant reduction in stroke risk in the general atrial fibrillation population but may be associated with an increased risk of major bleeding, and the benefit: risk ratio must be considered. Improvement in successful catheter ablation and widespread use of cardiac monitoring devices may allow for novel anticoagulation strategies in a subset of patients with atrial fibrillation, which may optimize stroke prevention while minimizing bleeding risk. In this review, we discuss stroke risk in atrial fibrillation and the effects of successful catheter ablation on thromboembolic risk. We also explore novel strategies for stroke prevention following successful catheter ablation.

Riesgo de hemorragia cerebral en el traumatismo craneal leve y tratamiento antitrombótico / Risk of cerebral hemorrhage in mild traumatic brain injury and antithrombotic treatment

Objetivo El tiempo de observación en el traumatismo craneoencefálico leve (TCEL) es controvertido. Nuestro objetivo se basó en evaluar el riesgo de complicaciones neurológicas en el TCEL con y sin tratamiento antitrombótico. Método Evaluamos retrospectivamente los pacientes con TCEL atendidos en urgencias durante 3 años. Consideramos TCEL aquellos con Glasgow ≥13 al ingreso. Se realizó una TC craneal en todos los casos con >1 factor de riesgo al ingreso y a las 24h en aquellos con deterioro neurológico o TC craneal inicial patológica. Se revisó retrospectivamente las complicaciones en los siguientes 3 meses. Resultados Evaluamos 907 pacientes con una edad media de 73±19 años. El 91% presentaron factores de riesgo, con un 60% en tratamiento antitrombótico. Detectamos un 11% de hemorragia cerebral inicial, 0,4% a las 24h y ningún caso a los 3 meses. El tratamiento antitrombótico no se asoció con incremento de riesgo de hemorragia cerebral (9,9 con vs. 11,9% sin tratamiento; p=0,3). El 39% de las hemorragias presentaron síntomas neurológicos (18% amnesia postraumática, 12% cefalea, 8% vómitos, 1% convulsiones), siendo en un 78,4% síntomas leves. De las 4 hemorragias detectadas a las 24h, 3 fueron asintomáticas y un caso emporó la cefalea inicial. Ningún paciente asintomático sin lesión en la TC craneal inicial presentó clínica a las 24h. Conclusiones Nuestro estudio sugiere que los pacientes con TCEL asintomáticos, sin lesión en la TC craneal inicial no precisarían periodo de observación ni TC craneal de control, independientemente del tratamiento antitrombótico o nivel de INR (AU)

Introduction The observation time in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is controversial. Our aim was to assess the risk of neurological complications in mTBI with and without antithrombotic treatment. Method We retrospectively evaluated patients with mTBI seen in the emergency room for 3 years. We considered MTBI those with Glasgow ≥13 at admission. A cranial CT was performed in all cases with >1 risk factor at admission and at 24h in those with neurological impairment or initial pathological cranial CT. Complications in the following 3 months were retrospectively reviewed. Results We evaluated 907 patients with a mean age of 73±19 years. Ninety-one percent presented risk factors, with 60% on antithrombotic treatment. We detected 11% of initial brain hemorrhage, 0.4% at 24h, and no cases at 3 months. Antithrombotic treatment was not associated with an increased risk of brain hemorrhage (9.9% with vs. 11.9% without treatment, P=.3). 39% of the hemorrhages presented neurological symptoms (18% post-traumatic amnesia, 12% headache, 8% vomiting, 1% seizures), with 78.4% having mild symptoms. Of the 4 hemorrhages detected at 24h, 3 were asymptomatic and one case that worsened the initial headache. No asymptomatic patient without lesion on initial clinical cranial CT presented at 24h. Conclusions Our study suggests that patients with asymptomatic mTBI, without a lesion on the initial cranial CT, would not require the observation period or CT control regardless of antithrombotic treatment or INR level (AU)

Adherencia y calidad de vida en pacientes con fibrilación auricular e insuficiencia cardíaca anticoagulados con Apixaban

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Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia in patients with heart failure (HF), regardless of ejection fraction, leading to a greater risk of thromboembolic complications. Anticoagulation is one of the fundamental pillars in the treatment of AF, and prior to this, it is recommended to evaluate the embolic risk using the CHA2DS2-VASc score and the bleeding risk with the HAS-BLED score. There are two pharmacological groups of oral anticoagulants (OACs), vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Both groups have advantages and disadvantages in their use. VKAs require frequent monitoring to achieve INR levels within range, a greater number of drug and dietary interactions, leading to lower adherence, satisfaction, and quality of life. Likewise, scientific evidence supports the non-inferiority of DOACs versus VKAs, being recommended in recent clinical practice guidelines for the prevention of thrombotic events in all patients with AF except in cases where moderate to severe mitral stenosis or mechanical valve replacement coexist. To date, there are no published studies that assess adherence and impact on quality of life with the use of DOACs in HF with AF. Therefore, the objective of this research is to observe changes in adherence and quality of life of patients who were switched from VKA to DOAC, describing the occurrence of thrombotic or hemorrhagic events. Methodology: Quasi-experimental, prospective, longitudinal study. All patients over 18 years of age with AF without mechanical valve prosthesis or moderate/severe mitral stenosis, anticoagulated with warfarin with therapeutic range time (TTR) ≤65% and SAMe-T2R ≥2 were included. The Morisky questionnaire was administered to evaluate adherence, and the Anti-Clot Treatment Scale was used to evaluate satisfaction and quality of life. Thrombotic and hemorrhagic risk was evaluated by CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED. The questionnaires were applied using warfarin and the same questionnaires were repeated after replacing with DOAC for convenience, specifically apixaban. Statistical analysis was performed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, Cochrane Q test, ANOVA, and STATAv.15.0. Results: 43 patients, 31 of whom were male, 100% had CHA2DS2-VASC >2, 37% had HAS-BLED >3, and 62.8% had SAMe-TT2R2 >2. There was a statistically significant difference (p<0.001) in relation to the use of apixaban in quality of life, disease burden, and positive impact. No thrombotic or hemorrhagic events were observed with the use of apixaban. Conclusions: A statistically significant difference was observed in adherence, satisfaction, and quality of life with the use of apixaban, without thrombotic or hemorrhagic events.

Introdução: A fibrilação atrial (FA) é a arritmia cardíaca mais comum em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC), independentemente da fração de ejeção, o que leva a um maior risco de complicações tromboembólicas. A anticoagulação é um dos pilares fundamentais no tratamento da FA e, antes disso, é recomendado avaliar o risco embólico usando o escore CHA2DS2-VASc e o risco de sangramento com o escore HAS-BLED. Existem dois grupos farmacológicos de anticoagulantes orais (AOs): os antagonistas da vitamina K (AVKs) e os anticoagulantes orais diretos (DOACs). Ambos os grupos têm vantagens e desvantagens em seu uso. Os AVKs exigem monitoramento frequente para alcançar níveis de RNI dentro da faixa, um maior número de interações medicamentosas e alimentares, levando a menor adesão, satisfação e qualidade de vida. Da mesma forma, a evidência científica suporta a não inferioridade dos DOACs em relação aos AVKs, sendo recomendados nas diretrizes recentes de prática clínica para a prevenção de eventos trombóticos em todos os pacientes com FA, exceto nos casos em que coexistem estenose mitral moderada a grave ou substituição valvar mecânica. Até o momento, não há estudos publicados que avaliem a aderência e o impacto na qualidade de vida com o uso de DOACs em IC com FA. Portanto, o objetivo desta pesquisa é observar mudanças na adesão e qualidade de vida de pacientes que mudaram de AVK para DOAC, descrevendo a ocorrência de eventos trombóticos ou hemorrágicos. Metodologia: Estudo quase-experimental, prospectivo e longitudinal. Foram incluídos todos os pacientes com mais de 18 anos de idade com FA sem prótese valvar mecânica ou estenose mitral moderada/grave, anticoagulados com varfarina com tempo de alcance terapêutico (TTR) ≤65% e SAMe-T2R ≥2. O questionário Morisky foi administrado para avaliar a adesão, e a Escala de Tratamento Anticoagulante foi usada para avaliar a satisfação e qualidade de vida. O risco trombótico e hemorrágico foi avaliado pelo escore CHA2DS2-VASc e HAS-BLED. Os questionários foram aplicados usando varfarina e os mesmos questionários foram repetidos após a substituição por DOAC por conveniência, especificamente apixabana. A análise estatística foi realizada usando o teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov, teste Q de Cochrane, ANOVA e STATAv.15.0. Resultados: Foram incluídos 43 pacientes, sendo 31 do sexo masculino. Todos os pacientes apresentavam CHA2DS2-VASC >2, 37% tinham HAS-BLED >3 e 62,8% tinham SAMe-TT2R2 >2. Foi observada uma diferença estatisticamente significativa (p<0,001) no que diz respeito ao uso de apixabana na qualidade de vida, carga da doença e impacto positivo. Não foram observados eventos tromboembólicos ou hemorrágicos com o uso de apixabana. Conclusões: Foi observada uma diferença estatisticamente significativa na adesão, satisfação e qualidade de vida em relação ao uso de apixabana, sem eventos tromboembólicos ou hemorrágicos.

Risk of cerebral hemorrhage in mild traumatic brain injury and antithrombotic treatment.

INTRODUCTION: The observation time in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is controversial. Our aim was to assess the risk of neurological complications in mTBI with and without antithrombotic treatment. METHOD: We retrospectively evaluated patients with mTBI seen in the emergency room for 3 years. We considered MTBI those with Glasgow ≥13 at admission. A cranial CT was performed in all cases with ≥1 risk factor at admission and at 24 h in those with neurological impairment or initial pathological cranial CT. Complications in the following 3 months were retrospectively reviewed. RESULTS: We evaluated 907 patients with a mean age of 73 ±â€¯19 years. Ninety-one percent presented risk factors, with 60% on antithrombotic treatment. We detected 11% of initial brain hemorrhage, 0.4% at 24 h, and no cases at 3 months. Antithrombotic treatment was not associated with an increased risk of brain hemorrhage (9.9% with vs 11.9% without treatment, p = 0.3). 39% of the hemorrhages presented neurological symptoms (18% post-traumatic amnesia, 12% headache, 8% vomiting, 1% seizures), with 78.4% having mild symptoms. Of the 4 hemorrhages detected at 24 h, 3 were asymptomatic and one case that worsened the initial headache. No asymptomatic patient without lesion on initial clinical cranial CT presented at 24 h. CONCLUSIONS: Our study suggests that patients with asymptomatic mTBI, without a lesion on the initial cranial CT, would not require the observation period or CT control regardless of antithrombotic treatment or INR level.

Emergency department management of atrial fibrillation: 2023 consensus from the Spanish Society of Emergency Medicine (SEMES), the Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC), and the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis (SETH). / Manejo de la fibrilación auricular en los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios: actualización a 2023 del consenso de la Sociedad Española de Medicina de Urgencias (SEMES), la Sociedad Española de Cardiología (SEC) y la Sociedad Española de Trombosis y Hemostasia (SETH).

OBJECTIVES: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent sustained arrhythmia managed in emergency departments, and the already high prevalence of this arrhythmia is increasing in Spain. This serious condition associated with increased mortality and morbidity has a negative impact on patient quality of life and the functioning of the health care system. The management of AF requires consideration of diverse clinical variables and a large number of possible therapeutic approaches, justifying action plans to coordinate the work of several medical specialties in the interest of providing appropriate care and optimizing resources. This consensus statement brings together recommendations for emergency department management of AF based on available evidence adapted to special circumstances. The statement was drafted by a multidisciplinary team of specialists from the Spanish Society of Emergency Medicine (SEMES), the Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC), and the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis (SETH). Strategies for stroke prophylaxis, measures to bring heart rate and heart rhythm under control, and related diagnostic and logistic issues are discussed in detail.

OBJETIVO: La fibrilación auricular (FA) es la arritmia sostenida de mayor prevalencia en los servicios de urgencias (SU), y en España presenta una frecuentación elevada y creciente. Esta arritmia es una enfermedad grave, que incrementa la mortalidad y asocia una relevante morbilidad e impacto en la calidad de vida de los pacientes y en el funcionamiento de los servicios sanitarios. La diversidad de aspectos clínicos a considerar y el elevado número de opciones terapéuticas posibles justifican la implementación de estrategias de actuación coordinadas entre los diversos profesionales implicados, con el fin de incrementar la adecuación del tratamiento y optimizar el uso de recursos. Este documento, realizado por un grupo multidisciplinario de expertos en arritmias cardiacas miembros de la Sociedad Española de Medicina de Urgencias y Emergencias, la Sociedad Española de Cardiología y la Sociedad Española de Trombosis y Hemostasia, recoge las recomendaciones para el manejo de la FA en los SU hospitalarios, basadas en la evidencia disponible y adaptadas a las especiales circunstancias de los mismos. En él se analizan con detalle las estrategias de profilaxis tromboembólica, control de frecuencia y control del ritmo, y los aspectos logísticos y diagnósticos relacionados.

Impact of left atrial appendage closure in patients on anticoagulation for atrial fibrillation and recurrent or chronic gastrointestinal bleeding / Impacto del cierre de la orejuela izquierda en pacientes anticoagulados por fibrilación auricular y con sangrado gastrointestinal recurrente o crónico

Background: Oral anticoagulation in non-valvular atrial fibrillation is associated with an increased risk of bleeding, particularly gastrointestinal bleeding, leading to treatment withdrawal in up to 50% of patients and putting them at risk of embolic events. Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) can be an alternative to chronic anticoagulation. We aim to describe the impact of LAAC in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) or chronic iron deficiency anaemia (CIDA) on healthcare resources consumption. Methods: Observational retrospective study of patients who underwent LAAC for GIB or CIDA at a single centre. Results: Nineteen patients with a median age of 74 years and a median Charlson score of six points were included in the study. Angiodysplasias were the most frequent cause of GIB or CIDA. The procedural success rate of LAAC was 100% with a median anticoagulant and antiplatelet treatment duration of 92 days. One year after the LAAC, we found a significant improvement in the lowest haemoglobin concentration and a reduction in the number of red blood cells transfusion, hospital admissions due to GIB and CIDA and the number of endoscopic examinations. One patient died due to a pulmonary thromboembolism. No deaths related to GIB were observed. Conclusions: LAAC seems to be a safe and effective alternative to anticoagulation in patients with GIB or CIDA. (AU)

Introducción: La anticoagulación oral en la fibrilación auricular no valvular se asocia a un incremento del riesgo de sangrado, especialmente gastrointestinal, lo que conlleva la retirada del tratamiento hasta en el 50% de los pacientes e implica un mayor riesgo de padecer un evento embólico. El cierre de la orejuela izquierda (COI) puede ser una alternativa a la anticoagulación crónica. Nuestro objetivo es describir el impacto del COI en pacientes con sangrado gastrointestinal (SGI) o anemia crónica ferropénica (ACF) en el consumo de recursos sanitarios. Métodos: Estudio observacional retrospectivo de pacientes sometidos a COI por SGI o ACF. Resultados: Diecinueve pacientes con una mediana de edad de 74años y una mediana del índice de Charlson de 6puntos fueron incluidos en el estudio. Las angiodisplasias fueron la causa más frecuente de SGI o ACF. La tasa de éxito técnico del COI fue del 100%, con una duración mediana del tratamiento anticoagulante y antiagregante de 92días. Tras un año del COI, se observó una mejoría significativa del valor mínimo de hemoglobina, así como una reducción en el número de transfusiones de concentrados de hematíes, en la necesidad de hospitalización por SGI o ACF y en el número de endoscopias. Un paciente falleció debido a un tromboembolismo pulmonar. Ningún paciente falleció por SGI. Conclusiones: El COI parece una alternativa segura y efectiva a la anticoagulación en pacientes con SGI o ACF. (AU)

Manejo de la fibrilación auricular en los servicios de urgencias hospitalarios: actualización a 2023 del consenso de la Sociedad Española de Medicina de Urgencias (SEMES), la Sociedad Española de Cardiología (SEC) y la Sociedad Española de Trombosis y Hem / Emergency department management of atrial fibrillation: 2023 consensus from the Spanish Society of Emergency Medicine (SEMES), the Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC), and the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis (SETH)

La fibrilación auricular (FA) es la arritmia sostenida de mayor prevalencia en los servicios de urgencias (SU), y en España presenta una frecuentación elevada y creciente. Esta arritmia es una enfermedad grave, que incrementa la mortalidad y asocia una relevante morbilidad e impacto en la calidad de vida de los pacientes y en el funcionamiento de los servicios sanitarios. La diversidad de aspectos clínicos a considerar y el elevado número de opciones terapéuticas posibles justifican la implementación de estrategias de actuación coordinadas entre los diversos profesionales implicados, con el fin de incrementar la adecuación del tratamiento y optimizar el uso de recursos. Este documento, realizado por un grupo multidisciplinario de expertos en arritmias cardiacas miembros de la Sociedad Española de Medicina de Urgencias y Emergencias, la Sociedad Española de Cardiología y la Sociedad Española de Trombosis y Hemostasia, recoge las recomendaciones para el manejo de la FA en los SU hospitalarios, basadas en la evidencia disponible y adaptadas a las especiales circunstancias de los mismos. En él se analizan con detalle las estrategias de profilaxis tromboembólica, control de frecuencia y control del ritmo, y los aspectos logísticos y diagnósticos relacionados. (AU)

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent sustained arrhythmia managed in emergency departments, and the already high prevalence of this arrhythmia is increasing in Spain. This serious condition associated with increased mortality and morbidity has a negative impact on patient quality of life and the functioning of the health care system. The management of AF requires consideration of diverse clinical variables and a large number of possible therapeutic approaches, justifying action plans to coordinate the work of several medical specialties in the interest of providing appropriate care and optimizing resources. This consensus statement brings together recommendations for emergency department management of AF based on available evidence adapted to special circumstances. The statement was drafted by a multidisciplinary team of specialists from the Spanish Society of Emergency Medicine (SEMES), the Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC), and the Spanish Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis (SETH). Strategies for stroke prophylaxis, measures to bring heart rate and heart rhythm under control, and related diagnostic and logistic issues are discussed in detail. (AU)

Trombosis venosa cerebral en adultos: cohorte de 35 casos de un hospital terciario / Cerebral venous thrombosis in adults: A case series of 35 patients from a tertiary hospital

Objetivos Describir las características basales, de presentación clínica, de imagen y evolución e identificar potenciales factores pronósticos en una cohorte de pacientes con trombosis venosa cerebral (TVC). Pacientes y métodos Estudio observacional retrospectivo, unicéntrico, que incluye a pacientes adultos con diagnóstico de TVC desde enero 2016 hasta diciembre 2020. Las variables fueron recogidas a través de la historia clínica electrónica. Resultados Se incluyeron 35 pacientes con una edad media al diagnóstico de 50,3 (±17,8) años, siendo la mayoría mujeres (74,4%). El 95% de los pacientes presentaba al menos un factor de riesgo para el desarrollo de TVC. El 97,1% recibió tratamiento anticoagulante con heparinas en la fase aguda, en su mayoría heparina de bajo peso molecular (75%). El evento compuesto (muerte, ingreso en unidad de cuidados intensivos, National institute of Health Stroke Scale al alta >3, recurrencia de TVC, hemorragia mayor, o la presencia de complicaciones) en las primeras dos semanas ocurrió en el 28,6%. El seguimiento medio fue de 3,3 años, durante el cual el 14,3% falleció (solo un paciente en relación con la TVC), un paciente presentó hemorragia mayor y ningún paciente presentó recurrencia de TVC. Conclusiones En nuestra cohorte, la TVC afectó con mayor frecuencia a mujeres jóvenes, y ocurrió en pacientes con al menos un factor de riesgo para TVC. La presencia de edema en la tomografía computarizada y el tratamiento con corticosteroides asociaron un peor pronóstico a corto plazo. Se observó un buen pronóstico a largo plazo en términos de mortalidad, recurrencia y sangrado (AU)

Objective To describe the baseline characteristics, clinical presentation, imaging tests and outcomes, and identify potential prognostic factors in a cohort of patients diagnosed with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). Patients and methods This retrospective, single-center, observational study included adult patients diagnosed with CVT from January 2016 to December 2020. The variables were reviewed using electronic medical records. Results A total of 35 patients were included, with a median age at diagnosis of 50.3 (± 17.8) years, and the majority being women (74.4%). Nearly 95% of the patients presented at least one risk factor for the development of CVT. Heparins were used for the acute phase in 97.1% of cases, with 75% of those being low molecular weight heparins. During the first two weeks, a compound event (death, intensive care unit admission, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale at discharge >3, CVT recurrence, major bleeding, or the presence of complications) occurred in 28.6% of patients (10 patients). Over the mean follow-up period of 3.3 years, 14.3% of the patients died (with only one death attributed to CVT), one patient experienced major bleeding, and no patients had a recurrence of CVT. Conclusions In our cohort, CVT predominantly affected young women with at least one risk factor for its development. The presence of edema on CT and corticosteroid treatment were associated with a poor short-term prognosis. However, we observed a favorable long-term prognosis in terms of mortality, recurrence, and bleeding (AU)

ACOD frente a AVK en pacientes con fibrilación auricular y bioprótesis: revisión sistemática y metanálisis / DOAC versus VKA in patients with atrial fibrillation and bioprosthetic valves: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introducción y objetivos: Los anticoagulantes orales directos (ACOD) se han mostrado eficaces y seguros en pacientes con fibrilación auricular; sin embargo, los pacientes con FA y bioprótesis están infrarrepresentados en los ensayos clínicos, por lo que la evidencia en este grupo es menor. Nuestro objetivo fue analizar la seguridad y eficacia de los ACODs en esta población revisando la información existente en la literatura. Métodos: Se realizó una búsqueda y revisión sistemática con los ensayos clínicos aleatorizados y estudios observacionales comparativos desde 2017 a enero de 2022, que comparasen ACODs y antagonistas de vitamina K (AVK) en pacientes con FA y bioprótesis. Se utilizó la hazard ratio al 95% del intervalo de confianza para comparar ambos grupos en términos de mortalidad total y cardiovascular, ictus/embolia sistémica y hemorragia mayor. Se realizó un metanálisis combinando los resultados de los estudios incluidos. Resultados: Se incluyeron 12 estudios (un total de 30.283 pacientes). Los ACODs se asociaron a una reducción significativa del 9% de la mortalidad total (HR=0,91; IC95%, 0,85-0,97; p=0,0068; I2=8%), sin diferencias significativas en el riesgo de ictus/embolismo sistémico (HR=0,87; IC95%, 0,67-1,14; p=0,29; I2=45%) o hemorragia mayor (HR=0,82; IC95%, 0,67-1,00; p=0,054; I2=48.7%). Conclusiones: En pacientes con FA portadores de bioprótesis, los ACODs podrían asociarse a una reducción de la mortalidad total sin reducción de eficacia en la prevención de ictus/embolia sistémica o aumento del riesgo de hemorragia mayor.(AU)

Introduction and objectives: Direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) therapy has been shown to be safe and effective in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, outcomes in AF patients with bioprosthetic valves are unclear, as this population has been underrepresented in clinical trials. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of DOACs in this population based on the existing published literature. Methods: A systematic search and review were conducted to identify randomized clinical trials and comparative observational studies published from 2017 to January 2022 that compared DOACs and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in AF patients with bioprosthetic valves. Hazard ratios (HR) were collected to compare the 2 treatments in terms of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, stroke/systemic embolism, and major bleeding. A meta-analysis combining the results was performed. Results: We included 12 studies (30 283 patients). DOACs and VKAs were compared based on HRs at the 95% confidence interval. DOAC therapy was associated with a significant 9% reduction in all-cause mortality (HR, 0.91; 95%CI, 0.85-0.97; P=.0068; I2=8%), with no significant differences in the risk of stroke/systemic embolism (HR, 0.87; 95%CI, 0.67-1.14; P=.29; I2=45%) or major bleeding (HR, 0.82; 95%CI, 0.67-1.00; P=.054; I2=48.7%). Conclusions: DOAC therapy in AF patients with bioprosthetic valves may be associated with a significant reduction in all-cause mortality, with no reduction in the efficacy of stroke/systemic embolism prevention or increase in major bleeding risk.(AU)

Flegmasia cerúlea dolorosa en paciente con trombocitopenia inmune primaria: un gran reto terapéutico / Phlegmasia cerulea dolorosa and primary immune thrombocytopenia: a therapeutic challenge

Introducción: la flegmasia cerúlea dolorosa resulta de una trombosis venosa masiva aguda que provoca unaobstrucción del drenaje venoso de una extremidad y se asocia con un alto grado de morbilidad.Caso clínico: presentamos el caso de un paciente con fl egmasia cerúlea dolorosa y múltiples factores de riesgopara desarrollarla, quien fue llevado a trombólisis dirigida por catéter, con lo que se logró salvar la extremidad.Discusión: la fl egmasia cerúlea dolorosa es una entidad poco frecuente que puede progresar de manera rápiday comprometer la vitalidad de la extremidad afectada o llevar a desenlaces fatales, por lo que requiere una prontasospecha y una intervención emergente. La terapia antitrombótica sigue siendo el manejo de elección.(AU)

Introduction: phlegmasia cerulea dolorosa results from acute massive venous thrombosis that causes obstructionof the venous drainage of an extremity, and it’s associated with a high morbidity.Case report: we present the case of a patient with phlegmasia cerulea dolorosa and multiple risk factors fordeveloping it, who was taken to catheter-directed thrombolysis successfully.Discussion: phlegmasia cerulea dolorosathis is a rare entity that can progress rapidly and compromise the vitalityof the limb or lead to fatal outcomes, which requires early suspicion and emergency intervention. Antithrombotictherapy continues to be the ideal treatment.(AU)

Ruptura esplénica después de terapia anticoagulante en un paciente con antecedente de COVID-19: reporte de caso.

We present the case of a 75-year-old man with a history of COVID-19 and splenic infarct treated with enoxaparin, who presented with intense abdominal pain and tomographic findings of free peri-splenic fluid and a hyperdense image in the spleen. An emergency laparotomy was performed, with findings of a splenic rupture at the vascular hilum. Spontaneous splenic rupture is a rare and fatal entity that should be suspected in a patient with history of COVID-19 who presents with acute abdominal pain after the administration of heparin.

Presentamos el caso de un varón de 75 años con antecedente de COVID-19 e infarto esplénico tratado con enoxaparina, quien inició con dolor abdominal intenso y hallazgos tomográficos de líquido libre periesplénico, así como una imagen hiperdensa en el bazo. Fue sometido a laparotomía de urgencia, encontrando una ruptura esplénica a nivel del hilio vascular. La ruptura esplénica espontánea es una condición rara y potencialmente fatal, por lo que se deberá tener un alto índice de sospecha ante un paciente con antecedente de COVID-19 que inicie con dolor abdominal agudo posterior a la administración de heparina.

Management of cerebral venous thrombosis in Spain: MOTIVATE descriptive study.

INTRODUCTION: Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon cause of stroke that mainly affects young adults. Early, accurate diagnosis can reduce the rate and severity of complications. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyse the clinical characteristics, management, and treatment of CVT in different centres in Spain. METHODS: We conducted a multicentre, retrospective, descriptive study of patients hospitalised due to CVT between 2008 and 2017 at 10 Spanish centres. RESULTS: We included 256 patients, with a mean age (SD) of 49.8 (18.7) years; 51% of patients were women. The most frequent symptoms were headache (73%), focal deficits (50%), epileptic seizures (33%), and encephalopathy (21%). The most frequent localisations were the superior sagittal sinus (12.5%), the transverse sinus (10.9%), and 2 or more sinuses or veins (66.4%). Thrombophilia was the most frequent known aetiology (24%), and was most commonly associated with the prothrombin G20210A mutation (19%). Forty-six percent of patients were treated with antithrombotics for 3 to 6 months, 21% for one year, and 22.6% required indefinite anticoagulation. Endovascular therapy was performed in 5% of cases, and 33% required neurosurgery. Regarding outcomes, 75% of patients were independent at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] score ≤ 2), with papilloedema (P =  .03), focal deficits (P = .001), and encephalopathy (P < .001) showing a statistically significant association with poor prognosis (mRS > 3). The in-hospital mortality rate was 4.3%, with a 3-month mortality rate of 6.3%. CONCLUSION: The diverse risk factors and variable presentation of CVT represent a challenge in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. To improve prognosis and reduce mortality, it is essential to establish management protocols for this entity.

Thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications in patients with prosthetic heart valves cared for in a tertiary care center. What have we learned?

BACKGROUND: Heart valve replacement surgery with mechanical or biological prostheses entails a risk of thromboembolism and bleeding complications. OBJECTIVE: To determine the complications related to complementary anticoagulation therapy and the probability of risk. METHODS: One-hundred and sixty-three patients who underwent heart valve replacement between 2002 and 2016 with either mechanical or biological prostheses, and who received vitamin K antagonists after hospital discharge, were studied. Anticoagulation therapy was categorized into optimal and non-optimal according to INR values prior to the development of complications. Patients with comorbidities and other risk factors for thrombosis and/or bleeding were excluded. RESULTS: In total, 68.7 % of patients received mechanical prostheses, and 31.3 %, biological prostheses (p ≤ 0.001); 25.2 % experienced the complications that motivated the study (p ≤ 0.001), which were hemorrhagic in 48.8 %, thromboembolic in 26.8 %, and of both types in 24.4 % (relative risk = 4.229). Among the patients with complications, 95.1 % received mechanical prostheses, and 4.9 %, biological (p = 0.005); non-optimal INR was identified in 49.7 % (p ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Given the high risk of thromboembolic and hemorrhagic complications, valve prostheses must be carefully chosen, and care priorities should include prevention and follow-up, especially in those patients who require anticoagulation therapy.

ANTECEDENTES: El reemplazo valvular por prótesis mecánicas o biológicas implica riesgo de tromboembolismo y complicaciones hemorrágicas. OBJETIVO: Determinar las complicaciones relacionadas con la terapia de anticoagulación complementaria y la probabilidad de riesgo en pacientes portadores de prótesis valvulares del corazón. MÉTODOS: Se estudiaron 163 pacientes entre 2002 y 2016, portadores de prótesis mecánicas y biológicas, quienes recibieron antagonistas de la vitamina K posterior al egreso hospitalario. La terapia de anticoagulación se categorizó en óptima y no óptima conforme a los valores de INR previos a las complicaciones. Fueron excluidos los pacientes con comorbilidades y otros factores de riesgo de trombosis y/o sangrado. RESULTADOS: a 68.7 % de los pacientes se les colocó prótesis mecánica y a 31.3 %, biológica (p ≤ 0.001); 25.2 % presentó las complicaciones motivo de estudio (p ≤ 0.001), hemorrágicas en 48.8 %, tromboembólicas en 26.8 % y de ambos tipos en 24.4 % (riesgo relativo = 4.229); a 95.1 % de los pacientes con complicaciones se les colocó prótesis mecánica y a 4.9 %, biológica (p = 0.005); 49.7 % presentó INR no óptimo (p ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSIONES: Ante riesgo alto de complicaciones tromboembólicas y hemorrágicas, la elección de las prótesis valvulares, la prevención y el seguimiento son prioridades, principalmente en quienes requieren terapia de anticoagulación.