Update on cardiac imaging: A critical analysis.

Imaging is instrumental in diagnosing and directing the management of atherosclerosis. In 1958 the first diagnostic coronary angiography (CA) was performed, and since then further development has led to new methods such as coronary CT angiography (CTA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), positron tomography (PET), and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). Currently, CA remains powerful for visualizing coronary arteries; however, recent studies show the benefits of using other non-invasive techniques. This review identifies optimum imaging techniques for diagnosing and monitoring plaque stability. This becomes even direr now, given the rapidly rising incidence of atherosclerosis in society today. Many acute coronary events, including acute myocardial infarctions and sudden deaths, are attributable to plaque rupture. Although fatal, these events can be preventable. We discuss the factors affecting plaque integrity, such as increased inflammation, medications like statins, and increased lipid content. Some of these precipitating factors are identifiable through imaging. However, we also highlight significant complications arising in some modalities; in CA this can include ventricular arrhythmia and even death. Extending this, we elucidated from the literature that risk can also vary based on the location of arteries and their plaques. Promisingly, there are less invasive methods being trialled for assessing plaque stability, such as Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR), which is already in use for other cardiac diseases like cardiomyopathies. Therefore, future research focusing on using imaging modalities in conjunction may be sensible, to bridge between the effectiveness of modalities, at the expense of increased complications, and vice versa.

Rendimiento diagnóstico de un nuevo software de aprendizaje profundo para corrección de atenuación en la imagen de perfusión miocárdica utilizando una cámara CZT cardiodedicada. Experiencia en la práctica clínica / Diagnostic performance of a novel deep learning attenuation correction software for MPI using a cardio dedicated CZT camera: Experience in the clinical practice

Objetivo Evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de un nuevo software de aprendizaje profundo para corrección de atenuación (SAPCA) en imágenes de perfusión miocárdica (IPM) utilizando una cámara cardiodedicada de cadmio-cinc-telurio (CZT) con correlación con angiografía coronaria (AC) para el diagnóstico de enfermedad arterial coronaria (EAC) en una población de alto riesgo. Métodos Estudio retrospectivo de 300 pacientes (196 varones [65%], edad media de 68 años) desde septiembre de 2014 hasta octubre de 2019. Posteriormente realizaron una IPM, seguida de AC dentro de los 6 meses posteriores a la IPM. La probabilidad media pretest para EAC según los criterios de la Sociedad Europea de Cardiología fue del 37%. La IPM se realizó en una cámara CZT cardio dedicada (D-SPECT® Spectrum Dynamics) usando un protocolo de 2 días, de acuerdo con las guías de la Sociedad Europea de Medicina Nuclear (EANM). La IPM fue evaluada con y sin el SAPCA. Resultados La precisión diagnóstica global de la IPM sin el SAPCA para identificar pacientes con cualquier EAC obstructiva en la AC fue del 87%, sensibilidad del 94%, especificidad del 57%, valor predictivo positivo del 91% y valor predictivo negativo del 64%. Utilizando el SAPCA, la precisión diagnóstica global fue del 90%, la sensibilidad del 91%, la especificidad del 86%, el valor predictivo positivo del 97% y el valor predictivo negativo del 66%. Conclusión El uso del novel SAPCA mejora el rendimiento diagnóstico de la IPM usando la cámara CZT D-SPECT®, especialmente reduciendo el número de resultados falsos positivos al reducir los artefactos (AU)

urpose To evaluate the diagnostic performance of a novel deep learning attenuation correction software (SAPCA) for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) using a cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) cardio dedicated camera with invasive coronary angiography (ICA) correlation for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) in a high-risk population. Methods Retrospective study of 300 patients (196 males [65%], mean age 68 years) from September 2014 to October 2019 undergoing MPI, followed by ICA and evaluated by means of quantitative angiography software, within six months after the MPI. The mean pre-test probability score for coronary disease according to the European Society of Cardiology criteria was 37% for the whole cohort. The MPI was performed in a dedicated CZT cardio camera (D-SPECT® Spectrum Dynamics) with a two-day protocol, according to the European Association of Nuclear Medicine guidelines. MPI was retrospectively evaluated with and without the SAPCA. Results The overall diagnostic accuracy of MPI without SAPCA to identify patients with any obstructive CAD at ICA was 87%, Sensitivity 94%, Specificity 57%, positive predictive value 91% and negative predictive value 64%. Using SAPCA the overall diagnostic accuracy was 90%, sensitivity 91%, specificity 86%, positive predictive value 97% and negative predictive value 66%. Conclusion Use of the novel SAPCA enhances performance of the MPI using the CZT D-SPECT® camera and achieves improved results, especially avoiding artefacts and reducing the number of false positive results (AU)

Implantación de un protocolo de angio-TC coronaria basado en el índice de masa corporal: reducción de dosis, calidad de imagen y rendimiento diagnóstico / Implementing a coronary CT angiography protocol based on the body mass index: radiation dose reduction, image quality, and diagnostic performance

Objetivos: Valorar la relación entre el score de calcio coronario y la elección posterior del kilovoltaje según el criterio del radiólogo en un protocolo estándar (PE) de angio-TC coronaria (aTCC) para descartar enfermedad coronaria. Cuantificar la reducción de la radiación ionizante después de vincular el kilovoltaje al índice de masa corporal en un protocolo de baja dosis (PBD) con reconstrucción iterativa de modelado. Valorar la calidad de imagen y el rendimiento diagnóstico del PBD. Material y método: Las características antropométricas, el score de calcio, los niveles de kilovoltaje y los valores de dosis estimada específica para el tamaño (SSDE) y del producto dosis-longitud fueron comparados entre un grupo de 50 pacientes con PBD reclutados prospectivamente y una cohorte histórica adquirida con el PE. Estos parámetros, el número de segmentos coronarios no valorables sin y con tolerancia de fase, la atenuación y la relación señal-ruido en la aorta ascendente en el PBD fueron correlacionados con una calidad de imagen de nivel excelente según una escala semicuantitativa. El rendimiento diagnóstico por paciente fue calculado usando la revaloración clínica a los 24 meses como el método diagnóstico de referencia, incluyendo las pruebas derivadas. Resultados: En el PE existía una relación entre la presencia de calcio coronario y la elección de kilovoltajes altos (p=0,02), que desaparecía en el PBD (p=0,47). Los valores de SSDE y de DLP en el PBD fueron significativamente inferiores y presentaron menor dispersión que en el PE (9,22 mGy [RIQ 7,84-12,1 mGy] y 97 mGy*cm [RIQ 78-134 mGy*cm] contra 26,5 mGy [RIQ 21,3-36,3 mGy] y 253 mGy*cm [RIQ 216-404 mGy*cm]; p <0,001 para las comparaciones de las medianas y de las dispersiones entre ambos grupos)...(AU)

Objectives: To evaluate the relation between the coronary calcium score and the posterior choice of kilovoltage according to radiologists’ criteria in a standard coronary CT angiography protocol to rule out coronary disease. To quantify the reduction in ionizing radiation after linking kilovoltage to patients’ body mass index in a low-dose protocol with iterative model reconstruction. To evaluate the image quality and diagnostic performance of the low-dose protocol. Material and methods: We compared anthropometric characteristics, calcium score, kilovoltage levels, size-specific dose estimates (SSDE), and the dose-length product (DLP) between a group of 50 patients who were prospectively recruited to undergo coronary CT angiography with a low-dose protocol and a historical group of 50 patients who underwent coronary CT angiography with the standard protocol. We correlated these parameters, the number of coronary segments that could not be evaluated with and without temporal padding, the attenuation, and the signal-to-noise ratio in the ascending aorta in the low-dose protocol with excellent imaging quality according to a semiquantitative scale. To calculate the diagnostic performance per patient, we used 24-month clinical follow-up including all tests as the gold standard. Results: In the standard protocol, the presence of coronary calcium correlated with the selection of high kilovoltage (P=0.02); this correlation was not found in the low-dose protocol (P=0.47). Median values of SSDE and DLP were significantly (P<0.001) lower and less dispersed in the low-dose protocol [9.22 mGy (IQR 7.84-12.1 mGy) vs. 26.5 mGy (IQR 21.3-36.3 mGy) in the standard protocol] and [97mGy*cm (IQR 78-134mGy*cm) vs. 253mGy*cm (IQR 216-404mGy*cm) in the standard protocol], respectively...(AU)

Implementing a coronary CT angiography protocol based on the body mass index: Radiation dose reduction, image quality, and diagnostic performance.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the relation between the coronary calcium score and the posterior choice of kilovoltage according to radiologists' criteria in a standard coronary CT angiography protocol to rule out coronary disease. To quantify the reduction in ionizing radiation after linking kilovoltage to patients' body mass index in a low-dose protocol with iterative model reconstruction. To evaluate the image quality and diagnostic performance of the low-dose protocol. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We compared anthropometric characteristics, calcium score, kilovoltage levels, size-specific dose estimates (SSDE), and the dose-length product (DLP) between a group of 50 patients who were prospectively recruited to undergo coronary CT angiography with a low-dose protocol and a historical group of 50 patients who underwent coronary CT angiography with the standard protocol. We correlated these parameters, the number of coronary segments that could not be evaluated with and without temporal padding, the attenuation, and the signal-to-noise ratio in the ascending aorta in the low-dose protocol with excellent imaging quality according to a semiquantitative scale. To calculate the diagnostic performance per patient, we used 24-month clinical follow-up including all tests as the gold standard. RESULTS: In the standard protocol, the presence of coronary calcium correlated with the selection of high kilovoltage (p = 0.02); this correlation was not found in the low-dose protocol (p = 0.47). Median values of SSDE and DLP were significantly (p < 0.001) lower and less dispersed in the low-dose protocol [9.22 mGy (IQR 7.84-12.1 mGy) vs. 26.5 mGy (IQR 21.3-36.3 mGy) in the standard protocol] and [97 mGy cm (IQR 78-134 mGy cm) vs. 253 mGy cm (IQR 216-404 mGy cm) in the standard protocol], respectively. The overall quality of the images obtained with the low-dose protocol was considered good or excellent in 96% of the studies. The parameters associated with image quality in a multivariable model (C statistic = 0.792) were heart rate (estimated coefficient, -0,12 [95% confidence interval: -0.2, -0.04]; p < 0.01) and the SSDE (estimated coefficient, -0,26 [95% confidence interval: -0.51, -0.01]; p < 0.05). The CAD-RADS modifier for a not fully evaluable or diagnostic study was used on two occasions (4%); the final measures for the diagnosis of coronary disease were sensitivity 100%, specificity 94%, and efficacy 94%. CONCLUSIONS: In the standard protocol, the radiologist selects higher kilovoltage for CT angiography studies for patients whose previous calcium score indicates the presence of coronary calcium. In the low-dose protocol, linking kilovoltage with body mass index enables the dose of radiation to be reduced by 65% while obtaining excellent or good image quality in 96% of studies and excellent diagnostic performance.

Diagnostic performance of a novel deep learning attenuation correction software for MPI using a cardio dedicated CZT camera. Experience in the clinical practice.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of a novel deep learning attenuation correction software (DLACS) for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) using a cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) cardio dedicated camera with invasive coronary angiography (ICA) correlation for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD) in a high-risk population. METHODS: Retrospective study of 300 patients (196 males [65%], mean age 68 years) from September 2014 to October 2019 undergoing MPI, followed by ICA and evaluated by means of quantitative angiography software, within six months after the MPI. The mean pre-test probability score for coronary disease according to the European Society of Cardiology criteria was 37% for the whole cohort. The MPI was performed in a dedicated CZT cardio camera (D-SPECT Spectrum Dynamics) with a two-day protocol, according to the European Association of Nuclear Medicine guidelines. MPI was retrospectively evaluated with and without the DLACS. RESULTS: The overall diagnostic accuracy of MPI without DLACS to identify patients with any obstructive CAD at ICA was 87%, sensitivity 94%, specificity 57%, Positive Predictive Value 91% and Negative Predictive Value 64%. Using DLACS the overall diagnostic accuracy was 90%, sensitivity 91%, specificity 86%, Positive Predictive Value 97% and Negative Predictive Value 66%. CONCLUSION: Use of the novel DLACS enhances performance of the MPI using the CZT D-SPECT camera and achieves improved results, especially avoiding artefacts and reducing the number of false positive results.

Descripción angiográfica de los aspectos anatómicos y clínicos de la arteria interventricular anterior en un grupo de personas colombianas

Introducción. La arteria interventricular anterior se origina en la coronaria izquierda, irriga la cara anterior de los ventrículos, el ápex y el tabique interventricular; es la segunda arteria más relevante del corazón. Objetivo. Describir las características anatómicas y clínicas de la arteria interventricular anterior mediante angiografía. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo con 200 reportes angiográficos de personas colombianas; se valoraron el origen, el trayecto y la permeabilidad de la arteria interventricular anterior, así como la dominancia coronaria. Se incluyeron datos relacionados con dolor precordial, infarto agudo de miocardio, dislipidemia y alteración electrocardiográfica. No fue posible hacer pruebas estadísticas, debido a la escasa prevalencia de variaciones anatómicas de dicha arteria. Resultados. Se encontró una arteria interventricular anterior con su origen en el seno aórtico izquierdo, sin puente miocárdico, sin alteración de la permeabilidad y con dominancia izquierda. La frecuencia de los puentes fue del 2 % y la dominancia más frecuente fue la derecha en el 86 %. Se presentaron alteraciones de permeabilidad en el 43 % de los casos, las cuales afectaron principalmente al S13. El 25 % de los pacientes presentó dolor precordial; el 40 %, alteraciones ecocardiográficas; el 5 %, cardiopatía isquémica, y el 59 %, alguna alteración electrocardiográfica. Conclusiones. Las variaciones en el origen de la arteria interventricular anterior son poco prevalentes, según reportes de Chile, Colombia y España. Los puentes miocárdicos de esta arteria fueron escasos respecto a otros estudios, lo cual sugiere mejor especificidad de los hallazgos de la angiotomografía o de la disección directa. La permeabilidad coronaria se valora con la escala TIMI (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction); puntajes de 0 y 1 indican una lesión oclusiva asociada con cardiopatía isquémica. La dominancia coronaria más frecuente, según diversas técnicas, es la derecha, seguida de la izquierda en hombres y de una circulación balanceada en mujeres.

Introduction. The anterior interventricular artery originates from the left coronary artery and irrigates the anterior surface of the ventricles, apex, and interventricular septum, making it the second most relevant artery of the heart. Objective. To describe the anatomical and clinical aspects of the anterior interventricular artery through angiography. Materials and methods. A descriptive study was conducted using 200 angiographic reports of Colombian individuals. The anterior interventricular artery's origin, course, patency, and coronary dominance were evaluated. Data related to chest pain, acute myocardial infarction, dyslipidemia, and electrocardiographic abnormalities were included. Statistical tests could not be performed due to this artery's low prevalence of anatomical variations. Results. One anterior interventricular artery was found to have originated from the left coronary sinus without a myocardial bridge, with no alteration in permeability, and with left dominance. The frequency of bridges was 2%, and the most frequent dominance was right in 86; permeability alterations occurred in 43% mainly affecting S13. Twenty-five per cent presented chest pain; 40%, echocardiographic alterations; 5%, ischemic heart disease, and 59%, electrocardiographic alterations. Conclusions. Variations of origin of the anterior interventricular artery have a low prevalence according to reports from Chile, Colombia, and Spain. anterior interventricular artery myocardial bridges were scarce compared to other studies, suggesting better specificity of computed tomography angiography or direct dissection for these findings. The assessment of coronary permeability is graded with the thrombolysis in myocardial infarction scale; values 0 and 1 indicate occlusive lesion associated with ischemic heart disease. According to various techniques, the most frequent coronary dominance the right, followed by the left in men and balanced circulation in women.

Rendimiento diagnóstico de diferentes protocolos de estrés cardiaco usados en imagen de perfusión miocárdica para el diagnóstico de enfermedad coronaria usando una cámara de cadmio-zinc-telurio con correlación con angiografía coronaria / Diagnostic performance of different cardiac stress protocols for myocardial perfusion imaging for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease using a cadmium-zinc-telluride camera with invasive coronary angiography correlation

Objetivo Evaluar el rendimiento diagnóstico de tres protocolos diferentes de estrés cardiaco utilizados en imagen de perfusión miocárdica (IPM), usando una cámara de cadmio-zinc-telurio (CZT) en correlación con angiografía coronaria (AC) para el diagnóstico de enfermedad arterial coronaria (EAC) en una población de alto riesgo. Métodos Estudio retrospectivo realizado en 263 pacientes (96 mujeres y 167 varones, edad media 68 años), de los cuales 119 realizaron una prueba de estrés con bicicleta (PEB), 113 una prueba de estrés farmacológica (PEF) y 31 una combinación de ambas (PEC), entre septiembre de 2014 y diciembre de 2018. Posteriormente realizaron una IPM, seguida de AC dentro de los seis meses posteriores a la IPM. La probabilidad preprueba media para EAC según los criterios de la Sociedad Europea de Cardiología fue de 36%. La IPM se realizó en una cámara CZT cardio dedicada (D-SPECT Spectrum Dynamics) con un protocolo de dos días, de acuerdo con las guías de la Asociación Europea de Medicina Nuclear (EANM). Resultados No se observaron diferencias significativas entre los diferentes protocolos de estrés en términos de precisión diagnóstica (PEB 85%, PEF 88%, PEC 84%). La exactitud diagnóstica general de IPM para identificar pacientes con cualquier EAC obstructiva en AC fue de 86%, sensibilidad de 93%, especificidad de 54%, VPP de 90% y VPN de 63%. Conclusión La cámara CZT D-SPECT logra resultados generales satisfactorios en el diagnóstico de la EAC, sin encontrar diferencias significativas en el rendimiento diagnóstico cuando la prueba de esfuerzo se realizó como PEB, PEF o PEC. (AU)

Purpose To evaluate the diagnostic performance of three different cardiac stress protocols for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) using a cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) camera with invasive coronary angiography (ICA) correlation for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease in a high risk population. Methods Retrospective study of 263 patients (96 women and 167 males, mean age 68 years) from which 119 patients performed a bicycle stress test (BST), 113 pharmacological stress test (PST) and 31 a combination of the two (CST) between September 2014 and December 2018. The patients then underwent myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), followed by ICA and evaluated by means of quantitative angiography software, within six months after the MPI. The mean pre-test probability score for coronary disease according to the European Society of Cardiology criteria was 36% for the whole population. The MPI was performed in a dedicated CZT cardio camera (D-SPECT Spectrum Dynamics) with a two-day protocol, according to the European Association of Nuclear Medicine guidelines. Results No significant difference was observed between the three stress protocols in terms of diagnostic accuracy (BST 85%, PST 88% and CST 84%). The overall diagnostic accuracy of MPI to identify patients with any obstructive CAD at ICA was 86%, Sensitivity 93%, Specificity 54%, PPV 90% and NPV 63%. Conclusion The CZT D-SPECT camera achieves overall satisfactory results in the diagnosis of CAD, observing no significant differences in the diagnostic performance when the stress test was performed as a BST, PST or CST (AU)

Diuresis inducida frente a hidratación combinada en pacientes sometidos a procedimientos cardiovasculares percutáneos: metanálisis de ensayos clínicos aleatorizados / Diuresis-matched versus standard hydration in patients undergoing percutaneous cardiovascular procedures: meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Introducción y objetivos: La nefropatía inducida por contraste (NIC) es una potencial complicación de los procedimientos que requieren la administración de medio de contraste yodado. El RenalGuard, que suministra una adecuada hidratación combinada con diuresis inducida por furosemida, es una alternativa a las estrategias convencionales de hidratación. Según la literatura disponible, la evidencia sobre el RenalGuard no es concluyente, por lo que hemos realizado un metanálisis utilizando una construcción bayesiana. Métodos Se realizaron búsquedas en Medline, Cochrane Library y Web of Science de ensayos aleatorizados de RenalGuard frente a estrategias estándar de hidratación periprocedimiento. El objetivo primario fue el desarrollo de NIC. Los objetivos secundarios fueron muerte por cualquier causa, shock cardiogénico, edema agudo de pulmón (EAP) e insuficiencia renal que requería terapia de reemplazo renal. Para cada resultado se calculó un riesgo relativo (RR) con el correspondiente intervalo de credibilidad del 95% (ICr95%). Registro número CRD42022378489 en PROSPERO database. Resultados Se incluyeron 6 estudios. El RenalGuard se asoció con una reducción relativa significativa de NIC (mediana de RR=0,54; ICr95%, 0,31-0,86) y EAP (mediana de RR=0,35; 95%ICr, 0,12-0,87). No se observaron diferencias significativas para los otros parámetros secundarios [muerte por cualquier causa (RR=0,49; ICr95%, 0,13-1,08), shock cardiogénico (RR=0,06; ICr95%, 0,00-1,91), terapia de reemplazo renal (RR=0,52; ICr95%, 0,18-1,18)]. El análisis Bayesiano también mostró que el RenalGuard obtuvo una alta probabilidad de posicionarse primero con respecto a todos los objetivos secundarios. Estos resultados fueron consistentes en múltiples análisis de sensibilidad. Conclusiones En los pacientes sometidos a procedimientos cardiovasculares percutáneos, el RenalGuard se asoció con un menor riesgo de NIC y EAP. (AU)

Introduction and objectives: Contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) is a potential complication of procedures requiring administration of iodinated contrast medium. RenalGuard, which provides real-time matching of intravenous hydration with furosemide-induced diuresis, is an alternative to standard periprocedural hydration strategies. The evidence on RenalGuard in patients undergoing percutaneous cardiovascular procedures is sparse. We used a Bayesian framework to perform a meta-analysis of RenalGuard as a CA-AKI preventive strategy. Methods We searched Medline, Cochrane Library and Web of Science for randomized trials of RenalGuard vs standard periprocedural hydration strategies. The primary outcome was CA-AKI. Secondary outcomes were all-cause death, cardiogenic shock, acute pulmonary edema, and renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy. A Bayesian random-effect risk ratio (RR) with corresponding 95% credibility interval (95%CrI) was calculated for each outcome. PROSPERO database number CRD42022378489. Results Six studies were included. RenalGuard was associated with a significant relative reduction in CA-AKI (median RR, 0.54; 95%CrI, 0.31-0.86) and acute pulmonary edema (median RR, 0.35; 95%CrI, 0.12-0.87). No significant differences were observed for the other secondary endpoints [all-cause death (RR, 0.49; 95%CrI, 0.13-1.08), cardiogenic shock (RR, 0.06; 95%CrI, 0.00-1.91), and renal replacement therapy (RR, 0.52; 95%CrI, 0.18-1.18)]. The Bayesian analysis also showed that RenalGuard had a high probability of ranking first for all the secondary outcomes. These results were consistent in multiple sensitivity analyses. Conclusions In patients undergoing percutaneous cardiovascular procedures, RenalGuard was associated with a reduced risk of CA-AKI and acute pulmonary edema compared with standard periprocedural hydration strategies. (AU)

The relationship between results of coronary angiography, Mediterranean-type lifestyle, type D personality, and healthy life expectancy.

AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between coronary angiography results and Mediterranean-type lifestyle and type D personality. METHODS: Mediterranean-type lifestyle index and type D personality scale were administered to 230 participants. RESULTS: In univariate analysis according to coronary angiography results, a statistically significant effect was determined between the decision for treatment with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and diabetes mellitus, and total and subscale points of Mediterranean lifestyle index, and between the decision for treatment with bypass and body mass index, Mediterranean diet, physical activity, and total points. In multivariate analysis, there was determined to be an effect between the PCI and systolic pressure, and between bypass and body mass index and subscale of physical activity. When disease-free life expectancy was examined, there was seen to be a negative effect of smoking and low Mediterranean diet points for participants with PCI, and of smoking, presence of hypertension, family history, and high type D personal characteristics score for those with bypass decision. CONCLUSION: The evidence-based recommendations for a Mediterranean-type lifestyle stated in cardiovascular disease (CVD) preventative guidelines may have a positive effect on the prevention of CVD, disability-free life, and mortality.

OBJETIVO: Este estudio se llevó a cabo para determinar la relación entre los resultados la angiografía coronaria y el estilo vida mediterráneo y los rasgos personalidad tipo D. MÉTODO: El índice de estilo de vida de tipo mediterráneo y la escala de personalidad de tipo D se administraron a 230 participantes. RESULTADOS: Según el resultado angiografía coronaria, subdimensiones intervención coronaria percutánea y diabetes y estilo de vida mediterráneo y puntajes totales en análisis univariante, circunvalación, cuanto a índice masa corporal, dieta estilo mediterráneo, actividad física y puntuación total; en análisis multivariado, se encontró que la intervención coronaria percutánea se asoció con la presión arterial sistólica, circunvalación con el índice masa corporal y subdimensión actividad física. Mirando la esperanza vida libre enfermedades, el tabaquismo y la baja puntuación la dieta tipo mediterránea del participante para el que se tomó la intervención coronaria percutánea, el índice masa corporal bajo, tabaquismo, hipertensión, los antecedentes familiares y los rasgos de personalidad tipo D altos del participante con la circunvalación afectan negativamente la esperanza de vida libre enfermedades. CONCLUSIÓN: Como se indica en las pautas de prevención enfermedades cardiovasculares, el estilo vida mediterráneo puede tener efectos positivos en la prevención enfermedades cardiovasculares, discapacidad y mortalidad.

Panorama de la ectasia coronaria en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez: un estudio transversal / Outlook of coronary ectasia at the National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio Chávez: a cross-sectional study

Resumen Introducción: La ectasia coronaria (EC) es una remodelación patológica con una prevalencia mundial baja. Se define como una dilatación difusa mayor a 1.5 veces el diámetro de los segmentos adyacentes de esta o diferentes arterias coronarias. Objetivo: Documentar las características clínicas y angiográficas, y el tratamiento médico que reciben los pacientes con diagnóstico de EC en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología (INC). Métodos: Estudio de tipo transversal con diseño no experimental descriptivo, con un muestreo por conveniencia no probabilístico. Resultados: De 69 pacientes que asistieron al INC con diagnóstico de EC la mayor parte eran hombres, con una media de edad de 56 ± 11 años, el factor de riesgo coronario más común en los pacientes con EC fue el tabaquismo, en 40 (58%); se asoció un infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMCEST) en 45 (65.2%), de localización frecuente en la cara inferior 18 (40%), relacionado con la arteria más afectada, la coronaria derecha 48 (69.6%), seguida de la circunfleja 39 (56.5%). Destaca el uso preferente de la terapia antiplaquetaria dual con anticoagulante (APD+ACO) en 40 (58%) al egreso de cada paciente del INC. Conclusión: La EC es una remodelación patológica no infrecuente en el INC. En este estudio se evidenció que el SCA-IAMCEST es la manifestación más típica de la EC, la coronariografía diagnóstica identificó un Markis tipo 3, por lo que se esperaría una tasa baja de mortalidad y recurrencia de eventos cardiovasculares y a pesar de no existir un consenso sobre la terapia ideal, en el INC se prefiere el tratamiento individualizado, recomendando modificación en el estilo de vida y empleando como tratamiento médico el uso de la triple terapia (APD+ACO) solo al momento de egreso del paciente.

Abstract Introduction: Coronary Ectasia (CE) is a pathological remodeling with a low worldwide prevalence. It is defined as a diffuse dilatation greater than 1.5 times the diameter of the adjacent segments of the same or different coronary arteries. Objective: To document the clinical and angiographic characteristics, and medical treatment at the discharge of patients diagnosed with coronary ectasia who attended the National Institute of Cardiology (INC). Methods: Cross-sectional study with a non-experimental descriptive design, with a non-probabilistic convenience sampling. Results: Of 69 patients who attended the INC with a diagnosis of CD, most were men, with a mean age of 56 + 11 years, the most common coronary risk factor in patients with CE was smoking 58% (40); it was associated mostly with an acute myocardial infarction ST-segment elevation (STEMI) 65.2% (45), of frequent location in the lower face 40% (18), correlated with the most affected artery is the Right Coronary Artery (CD) 69.6% (48), followed by the circumflex (Cx) 56.5% (39). A mean LVEF of 47 + 9.72 was evident within the ventricular function. As well as the preferential use of dual antiplatelet therapy with anticoagulant (DAP + OAC) in 58% (40) at the discharge of each patient from the INC. Conclusion: CE is a not uncommon pathological remodeling in INC. This study showed that STEMI is the most typical manifestation of CE, diagnostic coronary angiography identified a type 3 Markis, so a low rate of mortality and recurrence of cardiovascular events would be expected, and despite the lack of consensus on the ideal therapy, at the INC individualized treatment is preferred, recommending lifestyle changes, and using triple therapy (DAP + OAC) as a medical treatment only at the time of patient discharge.

Outlook of coronary ectasia at the National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio Chávez: a cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Coronary Ectasia (CE) is a pathological remodeling with a low worldwide prevalence. It is defined as a diffuse dilatation greater than 1.5 times the diameter of the adjacent segments of the same or different coronary arteries. OBJECTIVE: To document the clinical and angiographic characteristics, and medical treatment at the discharge of patients diagnosed with coronary ectasia who attended the National Institute of Cardiology (INC). METHODS: Cross-sectional study with a non-experimental descriptive design, with a non-probabilistic convenience sampling. RESULTS: Of 69 patients who attended the INC with a diagnosis of CD, most were men, with a mean age of 56 + 11 years, the most common coronary risk factor in patients with CE was smoking 58% (40); it was associated mostly with an acute myocardial infarction ST-segment elevation (STEMI) 65.2% (45), of frequent location in the lower face 40% (18), correlated with the most affected artery is the Right Coronary Artery (CD) 69.6% (48), followed by the circumflex (Cx) 56.5% (39). A mean LVEF of 47 + 9.72 was evident within the ventricular function. As well as the preferential use of dual antiplatelet therapy with anticoagulant (DAP + OAC) in 58% (40) at the discharge of each patient from the INC. CONCLUSION: CE is a not uncommon pathological remodeling in INC. This study showed that STEMI is the most typical manifestation of CE, diagnostic coronary angiography identified a type 3 Markis, so a low rate of mortality and recurrence of cardiovascular events would be expected, and despite the lack of consensus on the ideal therapy, at the INC individualized treatment is preferred, recommending lifestyle changes, and using triple therapy (DAP + OAC) as a medical treatment only at the time of patient discharge.

INTRODUCCIÓN: La ectasia coronaria (EC) es una remodelación patológica con una prevalencia mundial baja. Se define como una dilatación difusa mayor a 1.5 veces el diámetro de los segmentos adyacentes de esta o diferentes arterias coronarias. OBJETIVO: Documentar las características clínicas y angiográficas, y el tratamiento médico que reciben los pacientes con diagnóstico de EC en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología (INC). MÉTODOS: Estudio de tipo transversal con diseño no experimental descriptivo, con un muestreo por conveniencia no probabilístico. RESULTADOS: De 69 pacientes que asistieron al INC con diagnóstico de EC la mayor parte eran hombres, con una media de edad de 56 ± 11 años, el factor de riesgo coronario más común en los pacientes con EC fue el tabaquismo, en 40 (58%); se asoció un infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMCEST) en 45 (65.2%), de localización frecuente en la cara inferior 18 (40%), relacionado con la arteria más afectada, la coronaria derecha 48 (69.6%), seguida de la circunfleja 39 (56.5%). Destaca el uso preferente de la terapia antiplaquetaria dual con anticoagulante (APD+ACO) en 40 (58%) al egreso de cada paciente del INC. CONCLUSIÓN: La EC es una remodelación patológica no infrecuente en el INC. En este estudio se evidenció que el SCA-IAMCEST es la manifestación más típica de la EC, la coronariografía diagnóstica identificó un Markis tipo 3, por lo que se esperaría una tasa baja de mortalidad y recurrencia de eventos cardiovasculares y a pesar de no existir un consenso sobre la terapia ideal, en el INC se prefiere el tratamiento individualizado, recomendando modificación en el estilo de vida y empleando como tratamiento médico el uso de la triple terapia (APD+ACO) solo al momento de egreso del paciente.

Coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention after transcatheter aortic valve replacement: Feasibility in clinical practice.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Coronary artery disease is highly prevalent among patients with severe aortic stenosis who undergo transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). As indications for TAVR are now expanding to younger and lower-risk patients, the need for coronary angiography (CA) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) during their lifetime is expected to increase. The objective of our study was to assess the need for CA and the feasibility of re-engaging the coronary ostia after TAVR. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of 853 consecutive patients undergoing TAVR between August 2007 and December 2020. Patients who needed CA after TAVR were selected. The primary endpoint was the rate of successful coronary ostia cannulation after TAVR. RESULTS: Of a total of 31 CAs in 28 patients (3.5% of 810 patients analyzed: 57% male, age 77.8±7.0 years) performed after TAVR, 28 (90%) met the primary endpoint and in three cannulation was semi-selective. All failed selective coronary ostia cannulations occurred in patients with a self-expanding valve. Sixteen (52%) also had indication for PCI, which was successfully performed in all. The main indication for CA was non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (35%, n=11). Two cases of primary PCI occurred without delay. There were no complications reported during or after the procedure. CONCLUSION: Although CA was rarely needed in patients after TAVR, selective diagnostic CA was possible in the overwhelming majority of patients. PCI was performed successfully in all cases, without complications.

Five-year morbidity and mortality of patients with ischemia with non-obstructive coronary artery disease and myocardial single-photon emission computed tomography perfusion defects.

INTRODUCTION: Patients with angina and a positive single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) scan for reversible ischemia, with no or non-obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) on invasive coronary angiography (ICA), represent a frequent clinical problem and predicting prognosis is challenging. METHODS: This was a retrospective single-center study on patients who underwent elective ICA with angina and a positive SPECT with no or non-obstructive CAD over a seven-year period. Cardiovascular morbidity, mortality, and major adverse cardiac events were assessed during a follow-up of at least three years after ICA, with the aid of a telephone questionnaire. RESULTS: Data on all patients who underwent ICA in our hospital over a period of seven years (between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2017) were analyzed. A total of 569 patients fulfilled the pre-specified criteria. In the telephone survey, 285 (50.1%) were successfully contacted and agreed to participate. Mean age was 67.6 (SD 8.8) years (35.4% female) and mean follow-up was 5.53 years (SD 1.85). Mortality was 1.7% (four patients, from non-cardiac causes), 1.7% underwent revascularization, 31 (10.9%) were hospitalized for cardiac reasons and 10.9% reported symptoms of heart failure (no patients with NYHA class>II). Twenty-one had arrhythmic events and only two had mild anginal symptoms. It was also noteworthy that mortality in the uncontacted group (12 out of 284, 4.2%), derived from public social security records, did not differ significantly from the contacted group. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with angina, a positive SPECT for reversible ischemia and no or non-obstructive CAD on ICA have excellent long-term cardiovascular prognosis for at least five years.

Diuresis-matched versus standard hydration in patients undergoing percutaneous cardiovascular procedures: meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) is a potential complication of procedures requiring administration of iodinated contrast medium. RenalGuard, which provides real-time matching of intravenous hydration with furosemide-induced diuresis, is an alternative to standard periprocedural hydration strategies. The evidence on RenalGuard in patients undergoing percutaneous cardiovascular procedures is sparse. We used a Bayesian framework to perform a meta-analysis of RenalGuard as a CA-AKI preventive strategy. METHODS: We searched Medline, Cochrane Library and Web of Science for randomized trials of RenalGuard vs standard periprocedural hydration strategies. The primary outcome was CA-AKI. Secondary outcomes were all-cause death, cardiogenic shock, acute pulmonary edema, and renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy. A Bayesian random-effect risk ratio (RR) with corresponding 95% credibility interval (95%CrI) was calculated for each outcome. PROSPERO database number CRD42022378489. RESULTS: Six studies were included. RenalGuard was associated with a significant relative reduction in CA-AKI (median RR, 0.54; 95%CrI, 0.31-0.86) and acute pulmonary edema (median RR, 0.35; 95%CrI, 0.12-0.87). No significant differences were observed for the other secondary endpoints [all-cause death (RR, 0.49; 95%CrI, 0.13-1.08), cardiogenic shock (RR, 0.06; 95%CrI, 0.00-1.91), and renal replacement therapy (RR, 0.52; 95%CrI, 0.18-1.18)]. The Bayesian analysis also showed that RenalGuard had a high probability of ranking first for all the secondary outcomes. These results were consistent in multiple sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS: In patients undergoing percutaneous cardiovascular procedures, RenalGuard was associated with a reduced risk of CA-AKI and acute pulmonary edema compared with standard periprocedural hydration strategies.

Predicting obstructive coronary artery disease in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: A practical clinical score.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the most common etiology of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, there is controversy whether invasive coronary angiography (ICA) should be used initially to exclude CAD in patients presenting with new-onset HFrEF of unknown etiology. Our study aimed to develop a clinical score to quantify the risk of obstructive CAD in these patients. METHODS: We performed a cross-sectional observational study of 452 consecutive patients presenting with new-onset HFrEF of unknown etiology undergoing elective ICA in one academic center, between January 2005 and December 2019. Independent predictors for obstructive CAD were identified. A risk score was developed using multivariate logistic regression of designated variables. The accuracy and discriminative power of the predictive model were assessed. RESULTS: A total of 109 patients (24.1%) presented obstructive CAD. Six independent predictors were identified and included in the score: male gender (2 points), diabetes (1 point), dyslipidemia (1 point), smoking (1 point), peripheral arterial disease (1 point), and regional wall motion abnormalities (3 points). Patients with a score ≤3 had less than 15% predicted probability of obstructive CAD. Our score showed good discriminative power (C-statistic 0.872; 95% CI 0.834-0.909: p<0.001) and calibration (p=0.333 from the goodness-of-fit test). CONCLUSIONS: A simple clinical score showed the ability to predict the risk of obstructive CAD in patients presenting with new-onset HFrEF of unknown etiology and may guide the clinician in selecting the most appropriate diagnostic modality for the assessment of obstructive CAD.

Diagnostic performance of different cardiac stress protocols for myocardial perfusion imaging for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease using a cadmium-zinc-telluride camera with invasive coronary angiography correlation.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the diagnostic performance of three different cardiac stress protocols for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) using a cadmium-zinc-telluride (CZT) camera with invasive coronary angiography (ICA) correlation for the diagnosis of coronary artery disease in a high risk population. METHODS: Retrospective study of 263 patients (96 women and 167 males, mean age 68 years) from which 119 patients performed a bicycle stress test (BST), 113 pharmacological stress test (PST) and 31 a combination of the two (CST) between September 2014 and December 2018. The patients then underwent myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI), followed by ICA and evaluated by means of quantitative angiography software, within six months after the MPI. The mean pre-test probability score for coronary disease according to the European Society of Cardiology criteria was 36% for the whole population. The MPI was performed in a dedicated CZT cardio camera (D-SPECT Spectrum Dynamics) with a two-day protocol, according to the European Association of Nuclear Medicine guidelines. RESULTS: No significant difference was observed between the three stress protocols in terms of diagnostic accuracy (BST 85%, PST 88%, CST 84%). The overall diagnostic accuracy of MPI to identify patients with any obstructive CAD at ICA was 86%, Sensitivity 93%, Specificity 54%, PPV 90% and NPV 63%. CONCLUSION: The CZT D-SPECT camera achieves overall satisfactory results in the diagnosis of CAD, observing no significant differences in the diagnostic performance when the stress test was performed as a BST, PST or CST.

Tratamento percutâneo de origem anômala de coronária direita com trajeto maligno em paciente com morte súbita abortada / Percutaneous treatment of anomalous origin of the right coronary artery with malignant course in a patient with aborted sudden death

Anomalias coronarianas são menos frequentes em relação às doenças coronarianas adquiridas, como a aterosclerose, e têm sido implicadas como causa de eventos cardiovasculares. Este relato de caso descreve um achado incidental por angiografia de coronária direita anômala com origem no seio coronariano esquerdo e trajeto intra-arterial, após episódio de morte súbita abortada. A análise do Heart Team indicou como melhor tratamento a abordagem percutânea com implante de stent farmacológico em origem de coronária direita, procedimento este que foi realizado com sucesso. Este relato de caso e estudos recentes têm demonstrado que o tratamento percutâneo de anomalias coronarianas é uma opção segura para pacientes selecionados, levando em consideração quadro clínico, estudo anatômico e capacitação da equipe de hemodinâmica

Coronary anomalies are less frequent than acquired coronary diseases, such as atherosclerosis, and have been implicated as a cause of cardiovascular events. This case report describes an incidental finding on angiography of an anomalous right coronary artery with origin in the left coronary sinus and an intra-arterial course, after an episode of aborted sudden death. The Heart Team analysis indicated a percutaneous approach with drug-eluting stent implantation at the origin of the right coronary artery as the best treatment, and the procedure was successfully performed. This case report and recent studies have demonstrated percutaneous treatment of coronary anomalies is a safe option for selected patients, considering clinical presentation, anatomy study, and training of the cath lab team

Predição de Obstrução Coronariana Significativa em População com Suspeita de Doença Coronariana e Ausência de Cálcio Coronariano: CORE-64 e CORE320 / Predicting Significant Coronary Obstruction in a Population with Suspected Coronary Disease and Absence of Coronary Calcium: CORE-64 / CORE320 Studies

Resumo Fundamento A avaliação do Escore de Cálcio Coronariano (ECC) pode ser realizada por tomografia computadorizada sem contraste para prever eventos cardiovasculares, mas tem menor valor na estratificação de risco em pacientes sintomáticos. Objetivo Identificar e validar preditores de obstrução coronariana significativa (OCS) em pacientes sintomáticos sem calcificação da artéria coronária. Métodos Um total de 4258 participantes foram rastreados dos estudos CORE64 e CORE 320, nos quais foram avaliados pacientes encaminhados para angiografia invasiva, e do Quanta Registry que incluiu pacientes encaminhados para angiotomografia. Modelos de regressão logística avaliaram associações entre fatores de risco cardiovascular, ECC e OCS. Um nível de significância de 5% foi usado nas análises. Resultados Dos 509 participantes do estudo CORE, 117 (23%) apresentaram um ECC igual a zero; 13 (11%) pacientes sem cálcio coronariano apresentaram OCS. A ausência de cálcio coronariano correlacionou-se com idade mais jovem, sexo feminino, índice de massa corporal mais baixo, ausência de diabetes, e ausência de dislipidemia. O fato de ser fumante atual aumentou em 3,5 vezes a probabilidade de OCS e outros fatores de risco cardiovasculares não apresentaram associação significativa. Considerando os achados clínicos, um algoritmo para estratificar os pacientes com ECC igual a zero foi proposto, e tiveram desempenho limitado na coorte de validação (AUC 58; IC95% 43, 72). Conclusão Um perfil de risco cardiovascular mais baixo está associado a um ECC igual a zero em pacientes de alto risco. Tabagismo é o preditor mais forte de OCS em pacientes com ausência de cálcio coronariano.

Abstract Background Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scanning can be performed using non-contrast computed tomography to predict cardiovascular events, but has less value for risk stratification in symptomatic patients. Objective To identify and validate predictors of significant coronary obstruction (SCO) in symptomatic patients without coronary artery calcification. Methods A total of 4,258 participants were screened from the CORE64 and CORE320 studies that enrolled patients referred for invasive angiography, and from the Quanta Registry that included patients referred for coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). Logistic regression models evaluated associations between cardiovascular risk factors, CAC, and SCO. An algorithm to assess the risk of SCO was proposed for patients without CAC. Significance level of 5% was used in the analyses. Results Of the 509 participants of the CORE study, 117 (23%) had zero coronary calcium score; 13 (11%) patients without CAC had SCO. Zero calcium score was related to younger age, female gender, lower body mass index, no diabetes, and no dyslipidemia. Being a current smoker increased ~3.5 fold the probability of SCO and other CV risk factors were not significantly associated. Considering the clinical findings, an algorithm to further stratify zero calcium score patients was proposed and had a limited performance in the validation cohort (AUC 58; 95%CI 43, 72). Conclusion A lower cardiovascular risk profile is associated with zero calcium score in a setting of high-risk patients. Smoking is the strongest predictor of SCO in patients without CAC.