Prognostic Value of Troponin-T and B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19. / Valor Prognóstico da Troponina T e do Peptídeo Natriurético Tipo B em Pacientes Internados por COVID-19.

BACKGROUND: COVID-19 causes severe pulmonary involvement, but the cardiovascular system can also be affected by myocarditis, heart failure and shock. The increase in cardiac biomarkers has been associated with a worse prognosis. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the prognostic value of Troponin-T (TNT) and natriuretic peptide (BNP) in patients hospitalized for Covid-19. METHODS: This was a convenience sample of patients hospitalized for COVID-19. Data were collected from medical records to assess the association of TnT and BNP measured in the first 24 hours of hospital admission with the combined outcome (CO) of death or need for mechanical ventilation. Univariate analysis was used to compare the groups with and without the CO. Cox's multivariate model was used to determine independent predictors of the CO. RESULTS: We evaluated 183 patients (age = 66.8±17 years, 65.6% of which were males). The time of follow-up was 7 days (range 1 to 39 days). The CO occurred in 24% of the patients. The median troponin-T and BNP levels were 0.011 and 0.041ng/dL (p <0.001); 64 and 198 pg/dL (p <0.001), respectively, for the groups without and with the CO. In the univariate analysis, in addition to TnT and BNP, age, presence of coronary disease, oxygen saturation, lymphocytes, D-dimer, t-CRP and creatinine, were different between groups with and without outcomes. In the bootstrap multivariate analysis, only TnT (1.12 [95% CI 1.03-1.47]) and t-CRP (1.04 [95% CI 1.00-1.10]) were independent predictors of the CO. CONCLUSION: In the first 24h of admission, TnT, but not BNP, was an independent marker of mortality or need for invasive mechanical ventilation. This finding further reinforces the clinical importance of cardiac involvement in COVID-19. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(4):660-666).

FUNDAMENTO: A COVID-19 causa grave acometimento pulmonar, porém o sistema cardiovascular também pode ser afetado por miocardite, insuficiência cardíaca e choque. A elevação de biomarcadores cardíacos tem sido associada a um pior prognóstico. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar o valor prognóstico da Troponina T (TnT) e do peptídeo natriurético tipo B (BNP) em pacientes internados por Covid-19. MÉTODOS: Amostra de conveniência de pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19. Foram coletados dados dos prontuários com o objetivo de avaliar a relação da TnT e o BNP medidos nas primeiras 24h de admissão com o desfecho combinado (DC) óbito ou necessidade de ventilação mecânica. Análise univariada comparou os grupos com e sem DC. Modelo multivariado de Cox foi utilizada para determinar preditores independentes do DC. RESULTADOS: Avaliamos 183 pacientes (idade=66,8±17 anos, sendo 65,6% do sexo masculino). Tempo de acompanhamento foi de 7 dias (1 a 39 dias). O DC ocorreu em 24% dos pacientes. As medianas de TnT e BNP foram 0,011 e 0,041 ng/dl (p<0,001); 64 e 198 pg/dl (p<0,001) respectivamente para os grupos sem e com DC. Na análise univariada, além de TnT e BNP, idade, presença de doença coronariana, saturação de oxigênio, linfócitos, dímero-D, proteína C reativa titulada (PCR-t) e creatinina, foram diferentes entre os grupos com e sem desfechos. Na análise multivariada boostraped apenas TnT (1,12[IC95%1,03-1,47]) e PCR-t (1,04[IC95%1,00-1,10]) foram preditores independentes do DC. CONCLUSÃO: Nas primeiras 24h de admissão, TnT, mas não o BNP, foi marcador independente de mortalidade ou necessidade de ventilação mecânica invasiva. Este dado reforça ainda mais a importância clínica do acometimento cardíaco da COVID-19. (AArq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(4):660-666).

Valor Prognóstico da Troponina T e do Peptídeo Natriurético Tipo B em Pacientes Internados por COVID-19 / Prognostic Value of Troponin-T and B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Patients Hospitalized for COVID-19

Resumo Fundamento: A COVID-19 causa grave acometimento pulmonar, porém o sistema cardiovascular também pode ser afetado por miocardite, insuficiência cardíaca e choque. A elevação de biomarcadores cardíacos tem sido associada a um pior prognóstico. Objetivos: Avaliar o valor prognóstico da Troponina T (TnT) e do peptídeo natriurético tipo B (BNP) em pacientes internados por Covid-19. Métodos: Amostra de conveniência de pacientes hospitalizados por COVID-19. Foram coletados dados dos prontuários com o objetivo de avaliar a relação da TnT e o BNP medidos nas primeiras 24h de admissão com o desfecho combinado (DC) óbito ou necessidade de ventilação mecânica. Análise univariada comparou os grupos com e sem DC. Modelo multivariado de Cox foi utilizada para determinar preditores independentes do DC. Resultados: Avaliamos 183 pacientes (idade=66,8±17 anos, sendo 65,6% do sexo masculino). Tempo de acompanhamento foi de 7 dias (1 a 39 dias). O DC ocorreu em 24% dos pacientes. As medianas de TnT e BNP foram 0,011 e 0,041 ng/dl (p<0,001); 64 e 198 pg/dl (p<0,001) respectivamente para os grupos sem e com DC. Na análise univariada, além de TnT e BNP, idade, presença de doença coronariana, saturação de oxigênio, linfócitos, dímero-D, proteína C reativa titulada (PCR-t) e creatinina, foram diferentes entre os grupos com e sem desfechos. Na análise multivariada boostraped apenas TnT (1,12[IC95%1,03-1,47]) e PCR-t (1,04[IC95%1,00-1,10]) foram preditores independentes do DC. Conclusão: Nas primeiras 24h de admissão, TnT, mas não o BNP, foi marcador independente de mortalidade ou necessidade de ventilação mecânica invasiva. Este dado reforça ainda mais a importância clínica do acometimento cardíaco da COVID-19. (AArq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(4):660-666)

Abstract Background: COVID-19 causes severe pulmonary involvement, but the cardiovascular system can also be affected by myocarditis, heart failure and shock. The increase in cardiac biomarkers has been associated with a worse prognosis. Objectives: To evaluate the prognostic value of Troponin-T (TNT) and natriuretic peptide (BNP) in patients hospitalized for Covid-19. Methods: This was a convenience sample of patients hospitalized for COVID-19. Data were collected from medical records to assess the association of TnT and BNP measured in the first 24 hours of hospital admission with the combined outcome (CO) of death or need for mechanical ventilation. Univariate analysis was used to compare the groups with and without the CO. Cox's multivariate model was used to determine independent predictors of the CO. Results: We evaluated 183 patients (age = 66.8±17 years, 65.6% of which were males). The time of follow-up was 7 days (range 1 to 39 days). The CO occurred in 24% of the patients. The median troponin-T and BNP levels were 0.011 and 0.041ng/dL (p <0.001); 64 and 198 pg/dL (p <0.001), respectively, for the groups without and with the CO. In the univariate analysis, in addition to TnT and BNP, age, presence of coronary disease, oxygen saturation, lymphocytes, D-dimer, t-CRP and creatinine, were different between groups with and without outcomes. In the bootstrap multivariate analysis, only TnT (1.12 [95% CI 1.03-1.47]) and t-CRP (1.04 [95% CI 1.00-1.10]) were independent predictors of the CO. Conclusion: In the first 24h of admission, TnT, but not BNP, was an independent marker of mortality or need for invasive mechanical ventilation. This finding further reinforces the clinical importance of cardiac involvement in COVID-19. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(4):660-666)

Takotsubo Multicenter Registry (REMUTA) - Clinical Aspects, In-Hospital Outcomes, and Long-Term Mortality. / Registro Multicêntrico de Takotsubo (REMUTA) ­ Aspectos Clínicos, Desfechos Intra-Hospitalares e Mortalidade a Longo Prazo.

BACKGROUND: Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is an acquired form of cardiomyopathy. National Brazilian data on this condition are scarce. The Takotsubo Multicenter Registry (REMUTA) is the first to include multicenter data on this condition in Brazil. OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical characteristics, prognosis, in-hospital treatment, in-hospital mortality, and mortality during 1 year of follow-up. METHODS: This is an observational, retrospective registry study including patients admitted to the hospital with diagnosis of TTS and patients admitted for other reasons who developed this condition. Evaluated outcomes included triggering factor, analysis of exams, use of medications, complications, in-hospital mortality, and mortality during 1 year of follow-up. A significance level of 5% was adopted. RESULTS: The registry included 169 patients from 12 centers in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Mean age was 70.9 ± 14.1 years, and 90.5% of patients were female; 63% of cases were primary TTS, and 37% were secondary. Troponin I was positive in 92.5% of patients, and median BNP was 395 (176.5; 1725). ST-segment elevation was present in 28% of patients. Median left ventricular ejection fraction was 40 (35; 48)%. We observed invasive mechanical ventilation in 25.7% of cases and shock in 17.4%. Mechanical circulatory support was used in 7.7%. In-hospital mortality was 10.6%, and mortality at 1 year of follow-up was 16.5%. Secondary TTS and cardiogenic shock were independent predictors of mortality. CONCLUSION: The results of the REMUTA show that TTS is not a benign pathology, as was once thought, especially regarding the secondary TTS group, which has a high rate of complications and mortality. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(2):207-216).

FUNDAMENTO: A síndrome de takotsubo (takotsubo) é uma forma de cardiomiopatia adquirida. Dados nacionais sobre essa condição são escassos. O Registro REMUTA é o primeiro a incluir dados multicêntricos dessa condição no nosso país. OBJETIVO: Descrever as características clínicas, prognóstico, tratamento intra-hospitalar e mortalidade hospitalar e em 1 ano de seguimento. MÉTODOS: Estudo observacional, retrospectivo, tipo registro. Incluídos pacientes internados com diagnóstico de takotsubo ou que desenvolveram esta condição durante internação por outra causa. Os desfechos avaliados incluíram fator desencadeador, análise dos exames, uso de medicações, complicações e óbito intra-hospitalar e em 1 ano de seguimento. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5%. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 169 pacientes, em 12 centros no Estado do Rio de Janeiro. A idade média foi de 70,9 ± 14,1 anos e 90,5% eram do sexo feminino; 63% dos casos foram de takotsubo primário e 37% secundário. Troponina I foi positiva em 92,5% dos pacientes e a mediana de BNP foi de 395 (176,5; 1725). Supradesnivelamento do segmento ST esteve presente em 28% dos pacientes. A fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo teve mediana de 40 (35; 48)%. Observamos taxa de 25,7% de ventilação mecânica invasiva e 17,4% de choque. Suporte circulatório mecânico foi utilizado em 7,7%. A mortalidade intra-hospitalar foi de 10,6% e a mortalidade ao final de 1 ano foi de 16,5%. Takotsubo secundário e choque cardiogênico foram preditores independentes de mortalidade. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados do REMUTA mostram que takotsubo não se trata de patologia benigna como se pensava, especialmente no grupo de takotsubo secundário que acarreta elevada taxa de complicações e de mortalidade. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(2):207-216).

Registro Multicêntrico de Takotsubo (REMUTA) - Aspectos Clínicos, Desfechos Intra-Hospitalares e Mortalidade a Longo Prazo / Takotsubo Multicenter Registry (REMUTA) - Clinical Aspects, In-Hospital Outcomes, and Long-Term Mortality

Resumo Fundamento A síndrome de takotsubo (takotsubo) é uma forma de cardiomiopatia adquirida. Dados nacionais sobre essa condição são escassos. O Registro REMUTA é o primeiro a incluir dados multicêntricos dessa condição no nosso país. Objetivo Descrever as características clínicas, prognóstico, tratamento intra-hospitalar e mortalidade hospitalar e em 1 ano de seguimento. Métodos Estudo observacional, retrospectivo, tipo registro. Incluídos pacientes internados com diagnóstico de takotsubo ou que desenvolveram esta condição durante internação por outra causa. Os desfechos avaliados incluíram fator desencadeador, análise dos exames, uso de medicações, complicações e óbito intra-hospitalar e em 1 ano de seguimento. O nível de significância adotado foi de 5%. Resultados Foram incluídos 169 pacientes, em 12 centros no Estado do Rio de Janeiro. A idade média foi de 70,9 ± 14,1 anos e 90,5% eram do sexo feminino; 63% dos casos foram de takotsubo primário e 37% secundário. Troponina I foi positiva em 92,5% dos pacientes e a mediana de BNP foi de 395 (176,5; 1725). Supradesnivelamento do segmento ST esteve presente em 28% dos pacientes. A fração de ejeção do ventrículo esquerdo teve mediana de 40 (35; 48)%. Observamos taxa de 25,7% de ventilação mecânica invasiva e 17,4% de choque. Suporte circulatório mecânico foi utilizado em 7,7%. A mortalidade intra-hospitalar foi de 10,6% e a mortalidade ao final de 1 ano foi de 16,5%. Takotsubo secundário e choque cardiogênico foram preditores independentes de mortalidade. Conclusão Os resultados do REMUTA mostram que takotsubo não se trata de patologia benigna como se pensava, especialmente no grupo de takotsubo secundário que acarreta elevada taxa de complicações e de mortalidade. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(2):207-216)

Abstract Background Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is an acquired form of cardiomyopathy. National Brazilian data on this condition are scarce. The Takotsubo Multicenter Registry (REMUTA) is the first to include multicenter data on this condition in Brazil. Objective To describe the clinical characteristics, prognosis, in-hospital treatment, in-hospital mortality, and mortality during 1 year of follow-up. Methods This is an observational, retrospective registry study including patients admitted to the hospital with diagnosis of TTS and patients admitted for other reasons who developed this condition. Evaluated outcomes included triggering factor, analysis of exams, use of medications, complications, in-hospital mortality, and mortality during 1 year of follow-up. A significance level of 5% was adopted. Results The registry included 169 patients from 12 centers in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Mean age was 70.9 ± 14.1 years, and 90.5% of patients were female; 63% of cases were primary TTS, and 37% were secondary. Troponin I was positive in 92.5% of patients, and median BNP was 395 (176.5; 1725). ST-segment elevation was present in 28% of patients. Median left ventricular ejection fraction was 40 (35; 48)%. We observed invasive mechanical ventilation in 25.7% of cases and shock in 17.4%. Mechanical circulatory support was used in 7.7%. In-hospital mortality was 10.6%, and mortality at 1 year of follow-up was 16.5%. Secondary TTS and cardiogenic shock were independent predictors of mortality. Conclusion The results of the REMUTA show that TTS is not a benign pathology, as was once thought, especially regarding the secondary TTS group, which has a high rate of complications and mortality. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; 115(2):207-216)

Fourteen Years' Survival After Batista Operation: The Short History of a Long Journey

Abstract A 41-year-old man with end-stage heart failure due to nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy was submitted to the Batista procedure as an alternative to heart transplantation. With surgery, the patient showed progressive clinical amelioration, achieving long-term stable NYHA functional class II, despite gradual dilation of the heart chambers. Persistent atrial fibrillation appeared on the last year of life, his clinical condition deteriorated, and the patient died 14 years, four months, and 13 days after the operation. To the best of our knowledge this seems to be the longest reported survival for a patient submitted to Batista operation.

Mortality and survival in aortic arch surgeries with preservation of supra-aortic vessels: thirteen years of experience / Mortalidade e sobrevida em cirurgias do arco aórtico com preservação de vasos supra-aórticos: treze anos de experiência

Background: The aortic arch diseases exhibit high morbidity and mortality rates. Some surgical strategies recommend partial preservation of the aortic arch and the supra-aortic vessels, but the immediate and mediumterm mortality rates of patients undergoing this surgical strategy is uncertain. Objectives: To compare overall mortality and mid- term survival curve of patients undergoing surgical strategy of partial preservation of the aortic arch and supra-aortic vessels (group A) compared to conventional strategies of the aortic arch approach (group B); to assess cardiovascular mortality over time. Methods: Descriptive and retrospective study of the medical records of patients undergoing aortic arch repair surgery between February 2000 and July 2013. We analyzed 111 patients, 29 in group A and 82 in group B. The overall survival and survival from cardiovascular events were assessed by Kaplan-Meier test. Results: In- hospital mortality from any cause was 31% in group A and 29.3% in group B. At 1 year, 2 year, and 5 year general survival was similar between the groups. In-hospital, 2 years and 5 years mortality from cardiovascular causes was 13.8%, 14.8%, e 22.7% in group A and 26.8%, 34.6% e 50.9% in group B. The difference between the groups in 5 years showed statistical significance (p = 0.0234). Survival from cardiovascular causes in 2 years and 5 years was 85.2% and 77,3% in group A and 65.4% and 49,1% in group B. Occurrence of urgent and emergency procedures were greater in group A, but without statistical significance. Conclusions: There was no difference in all-cause mortality over time between the groups. Group A showed lower cardiovascular mortality at 5 years than group B

Natriuretic Peptide and Clinical Evaluation in the Diagnosis of Heart Failure Hemodynamic Profile: Comparison with Tissue Doppler Echocardiography.

BACKGROUND: Physical examination and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) have been used to estimate hemodynamics and tailor therapy of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) patients. However, correlation between these parameters and left ventricular filling pressures is controversial. OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of physical examination, chest radiography (CR) and BNP in estimating left atrial pressure (LAP) as assessed by tissue Doppler echocardiogram. METHODS: Patients admitted with ADHF were prospectively assessed. Diagnostic characteristics of physical signs of heart failure, CR and BNP in predicting elevation (> 15 mm Hg) of LAP, alone or combined, were calculated. Spearman test was used to analyze the correlation between non-normal distribution variables. The level of significance was 5%. RESULTS: Forty-three patients were included, with mean age of 69.9 ± 11.1years, left ventricular ejection fraction of 25 ± 8.0%, and BNP of 1057 ± 1024.21 pg/mL. Individually, all clinical, CR or BNP parameters had a poor performance in predicting LAP ≥ 15 mm Hg. A clinical score of congestion had the poorest performance [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) 0.53], followed by clinical score + CR (AUC 0.60), clinical score + CR + BNP > 400 pg/mL (AUC 0.62), and clinical score + CR + BNP > 1000 pg/mL (AUC 0.66). CONCLUSION: Physical examination, CR and BNP had a poor performance in predicting a LAP ≥ 15 mm Hg. Using these parameters alone or in combination may lead to inaccurate estimation of hemodynamics.

Natriuretic Peptide and Clinical Evaluation in the Diagnosis of Heart Failure Hemodynamic Profile: Comparison with Tissue Doppler Echocardiography / Peptídeo Natriurético e Avaliação Clínica no Diagnóstico do Perfil Hemodinâmico da Insuficiência Cardíaca: Comparação com Ecodopplercardiograma Tecidual

Abstract Background: Physical examination and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) have been used to estimate hemodynamics and tailor therapy of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) patients. However, correlation between these parameters and left ventricular filling pressures is controversial. Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of physical examination, chest radiography (CR) and BNP in estimating left atrial pressure (LAP) as assessed by tissue Doppler echocardiogram. Methods: Patients admitted with ADHF were prospectively assessed. Diagnostic characteristics of physical signs of heart failure, CR and BNP in predicting elevation (> 15 mm Hg) of LAP, alone or combined, were calculated. Spearman test was used to analyze the correlation between non-normal distribution variables. The level of significance was 5%. Results: Forty-three patients were included, with mean age of 69.9 ± 11.1years, left ventricular ejection fraction of 25 ± 8.0%, and BNP of 1057 ± 1024.21 pg/mL. Individually, all clinical, CR or BNP parameters had a poor performance in predicting LAP ≥ 15 mm Hg. A clinical score of congestion had the poorest performance [area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) 0.53], followed by clinical score + CR (AUC 0.60), clinical score + CR + BNP > 400 pg/mL (AUC 0.62), and clinical score + CR + BNP > 1000 pg/mL (AUC 0.66). Conclusion: Physical examination, CR and BNP had a poor performance in predicting a LAP ≥ 15 mm Hg. Using these parameters alone or in combination may lead to inaccurate estimation of hemodynamics.

Resumo Fundamento: Exame físico e peptídeo natriurético do tipo B (BNP) foram usados para estimar a hemodinâmica e adequar a terapia de pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca aguda descompensada (ICAD). Entretanto, correlação entre esses parâmetros e a pressão de enchimento do ventrículo esquerdo é controversa. Objetivo: Avaliar a acurácia diagnóstica do exame físico, da radiografia de tórax (RT) e do BNP para estimar a pressão atrial esquerda (PAE) avaliada pelo ecodopplercardiograma tecidual. Métodos: Pacientes admitidos com ICAD foram avaliados prospectivamente. As características diagnósticas dos sinais físicos de insuficiência cardíaca, RT e BNP para predizer elevação da PAE (> 15 mmHg), isolados ou combinados, foram calculadas. Teste de Spearman foi usado para analisar a correlação entre variáveis de distribuição não normal. O nível de significância foi 5%. Resultados: Este estudo incluiu 43 pacientes com idade média de 69,9 ± 11,1 anos, fração de ejeção ventricular esquerda de 25 ± 8.0%, e BNP de 1057 ± 1024,21 pg/mL. Individualmente, todos os parâmetros clínicos, RT e BNP apresentaram fraco desempenho para predizer PAE ≥ 15 mmHg. O escore clínico de congestão teve o pior desempenho [área sob a curva receiver operating characteristic (AUC) 0,53], seguindo-se escore clínico + RT (AUC 0,60), escore clínico + RT + BNP > 400 pg/mL (AUC 0,62) e escore clínico + RT + BNP > 1000 pg/mL (AUC 0,66). Conclusão: Exame físico, RT e BNP tiveram desempenho fraco para predizer PAE ≥15 mmHg. O uso desses parâmetros isoladamente ou em combinação pode levar a estimativa imprecisa do perfil hemodinâmico. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2018; 110(3):270-277)

Resistência ao AAS na doença coronariana estável / Aspirin resistance in stable coronary disease

Fundamentos: A doença arterial coronariana (DAC) apresenta alta morbimortalidade. A angioplastia coronariana e antiagregação com ácido acetilsalicílico (AAS) são fundamentais no tratamento desses pacientes. No contexto da angioplastia eletiva, carece estudos referentes aos fatores associados à resistência ao AAS.Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência e os fatores relacionados à resistência ao AAS em pacientes submetidos àangioplastia eletiva. Métodos: Coorte retrospectiva de 198 pacientes submetidos à angioplastia eletiva, avaliados quanto à resistência ao AAS pela agregometria óptica com ácido araquidônico como agonista.Resultados: Observou-se resistência ao AAS em 6,56% da coorte (13/198). Os níveis de proteína C-reativa (PCR-t)mostraram associação com a resistência ao AAS (p=0,02). Conclusões: A prevalência da resistência ao AAS observada nos pacientes submetidos à angioplastia eletiva é baixa e os níveis elevados de proteína C-reativa relacionaram-se com maior chance de ocorrência dessa resistência.

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) has high morbidity and mortality rates. Coronary angioplasty and antiplatelet therapy with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) are critical in treating CAD patients. Elective angioplasty lacks studies on the factors associatedwith resistance to ASA. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence and ASA resistance related factors in patients undergoing elective angioplasty.Methods: Retrospective cohort study of 198 patients undergoing elective angioplasty, evaluated for resistance to ASA by optical aggregometry with arachidonic acid as agonist. Results: Resistance to ASA in 6.56% of the cohort (13/198). C-reactive protein (CRP) levels indicated association with resistance to ASA (p=0.02).Conclusions: Low prevalence of ASA resistance in patients undergoing elective angioplasty; C-reactive protein high levels are related to greater frequency of this resistance.

Aneurismas coronarianos, cerebral e de aorta abdominal: uma rara associação / Coronary, cerebral and abdominal aortic aneurysms: a rare association

Relata-se caso de associação de aneurismas coronariano, cerebral e de aorta abdominal em paciente idoso do sexo masculino, admitido por dispneia, cuja investigação mostrou insuficiência mitral grave. Apresentava história pregressa de aneurismas cerebral e de aorta abdominal, este corrigido por endoprótese, e diversas comorbidades. Foi submetido à cineangiocoronariografia em avaliação pré-operatória para possível correção valvar, que revelou aterosclerose coronariana severa e grandes formações aneurismáticas nos principais ramos coronarianos. Tendo em vista a complexidade para correção das alterações coronarianas e as outras comorbidades associadas, paciente, família e médico assistente optaram por tratamento clínico.

This case study describes an association of coronary,cerebral and abdominal aortic aneurysms in na elderly male patient hospitalized for dyspnea,whose investigation showed severe mitral regurgitation. His previous history included brain and abdominal aortic aneurysms, the later corrected by a stent, as well as several comorbidities. Coronary angiography during a pre-operative assessment for possible valve repair disclosed severe coronary atherosclerosis and large aneurysm formations in major coronary branches. Due to the complexity of correcting the coronary aneurysms and other associated comorbidities, the patient, his family and his attending physician opted for clinical treatment.

Resistência ao clopidogrel: prevalência e variáveis associadas / Resistance to clopidogrel: prevalence and associate variables

FUNDAMENTO: A dupla terapia antiagregante plaquetária com ácido acetilsalicílico e clopidogrel é pedra angular do tratamento de pacientes submetidos a angioplastia com implante de stents coronarianos. Todavia, parte desses pacientes, a despeito do uso de aspirina e clopidogrel, não se encontram eficazmente antiagregados, fenômeno conhecido como resistência aos antiagregantes plaquetários. A sua prevalência, assim como as condições a ela relacionadas são desconhecidas em nosso meio. OBJETIVO: Determinar a prevalência de resistência ao clopidogrel, assim como as variáveis a ela relacionadas. MÉTODOS: Pacientes admitidos para angioplastia eletiva em uso crônico de aspirina e clopidogrel entre janeiro de 2007 e janeiro de 2010. Uma hora após o procedimento, foi medida a agregação plaquetária utilizando a agregometria óptica com difosfato de adenosina 5 µmoles/l como agonista. Nesse momento, em um coorte transversal, determinou-se a prevalência de resistência ao clopidogrel, definida com um valor de agregação plaquetária > 43% e um modelo de regressão logística às variáveis a ela relacionadas. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 205 pacientes (66,4 ± 11anos, 61,5% masculino). A prevalência de resistência ao clopidogrel foi 38,5% (IC95% 31,9 - 45,2%). O valor da glicemia (OR = 1,014 IC95% 1,004 - 1,023), infarto do miocárdio prévio (OR = 2,320 IC95% 1,1103 - 4,892) e a resposta terapêutica à aspirina (OR = 1,057 IC95% 1,017 - 1,099) foram as variavéis de associação independente à resistência ao clopidogrel. CONCLUSÃO: A prevalência de resistência ao clopidogrel foi alta. Glicemia, infarto agudo do miocárdio prévio e a resposta ao ácido acetilsalicílico foram variáveis a ela relacionadas. A melhor compreensão desse fenômeno se faz necessária frente às novas propostas de antiagregantes plaquetários.

BACKGROUND: The dual antiplatelet therapy with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and clopidogrel is the cornerstone of treatment for patients undergoing angioplasty with coronary stent implantation. However, some of these patients, despite the use of aspirin and clopidogrel, are not effectively anti-aggregated, a phenomenon known as resistance to antiplatelet agents. Its prevalence, as well as the conditions associated with it, is unknown in our country. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of clopidogrel resistance, as well as variables associated with it. METHODS: Patients admitted for elective angioplasty in chronic use of ASA and clopidogrel between January 2007 and January 2010 were studied. One hour after the procedure, platelet aggregation was measured using optical aggregometry with adenosine diphosphate 5 mmoles / l as agonist. At that moment, in a cross-sectional cohort, we determined the prevalence of clopidogrel resistance, defined as the value of platelet aggregation > 43% and a logistic regression model to the variables associated with it. RESULTS: A total of 205 patients were analyzed (66.4 ± 11 years, 61.5% males). The prevalence of clopidogrel resistance was 38.5% (95% CI: 31.9 - 45.2%). Blood glucose (OR = 1.014; 95%CI: 1.004 - 1.023), previous myocardial infarction (OR = 2.320; 95%CI: 1.1103 - 4.892) and therapeutic response to ASA (OR = 1.057; 95%CI: 1.017 - 1.099) were the variables independently associated with clopidogrel resistance. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of clopidogrel resistance was high. Glycemia, acute myocardial infarction and response to ASA were variables associated with it. A better understanding of this phenomenon is necessary considering the new antiplatelet aggregant agents.

Resistance to clopidogrel: prevalence and associate variables.

BACKGROUND: The dual antiplatelet therapy with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and clopidogrel is the cornerstone of treatment for patients undergoing angioplasty with coronary stent implantation. However, some of these patients, despite the use of aspirin and clopidogrel, are not effectively anti-aggregated, a phenomenon known as resistance to antiplatelet agents. Its prevalence, as well as the conditions associated with it, is unknown in our country. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of clopidogrel resistance, as well as variables associated with it. METHODS: Patients admitted for elective angioplasty in chronic use of ASA and clopidogrel between January 2007 and January 2010 were studied. One hour after the procedure, platelet aggregation was measured using optical aggregometry with adenosine diphosphate 5 mmoles / l as agonist. At that moment, in a cross-sectional cohort, we determined the prevalence of clopidogrel resistance, defined as the value of platelet aggregation ≥ 43% and a logistic regression model to the variables associated with it. RESULTS: A total of 205 patients were analyzed (66.4 ± 11 years, 61.5% males). The prevalence of clopidogrel resistance was 38.5% (95% CI: 31.9 - 45.2%). Blood glucose (OR = 1.014; 95%CI: 1.004 - 1.023), previous myocardial infarction (OR = 2.320; 95%CI: 1.1103 - 4.892) and therapeutic response to ASA (OR = 1.057; 95%CI: 1.017 - 1.099) were the variables independently associated with clopidogrel resistance. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of clopidogrel resistance was high. Glycemia, acute myocardial infarction and response to ASA were variables associated with it. A better understanding of this phenomenon is necessary considering the new antiplatelet aggregant agents.

Summary of the II Brazilian Guideline update on Acute Heart Failure 2009/2011.

In the past two years we observed several changes in the diagnostic and therapeutic approach of patients with acute heart failure (acute HF), which led us to the need of performing a summary update of the II Brazilian Guidelines on Acute Heart Failure 2009. In the diagnostic evaluation, the diagnostic flowchart was simplified and the role of clinical assessment and echocardiography was enhanced. In the clinical-hemodynamic evaluation on admission, the hemodynamic echocardiography gained prominence as an aid to define this condition in patients with acute HF in the emergency room. In the prognostic evaluation, the role of biomarkers was better established and the criteria and prognostic value of the cardiorenal syndrome was better defined. The therapeutic approach flowcharts were revised, and are now simpler and more objective. Among the advances in drug therapy, the safety and importance of the maintenance or introduction of beta-blockers in the admission treatment are highlighted. Anticoagulation, according to new evidence, gained a wider range of indications. The presentation hemodynamic models of acute pulmonary edema were well established, with their different therapeutic approaches, as well as new levels of indication and evidence. In the surgical treatment of acute HF, CABG, the approach to mechanical lesions and heart transplantation were reviewed and updated. This update strengthens the II Brazilian Guidelines on Acute Heart Failure to keep it updated and refreshed. All clinical cardiologists who deal with patients with acute HF will find, in the guidelines and its summary, important tools to help them with the clinical practice for better diagnosis and treatment of their patients.

Técnica de carreira: uma nova técnica para cirurgia do arco aórtico com perfusão cerebral seletiva anterógrada e bilateral através do isolamento do tronco braquicefálico e carótida esquerda / Carreira's technique: a new technique for aortic arch surgery with bilateral antegrade selective cerebral perfusion by isolation of innominate and left carotid arteries

As doenças do arco aórtico que necessitam de tratamento cirúrgico ainda exibem taxas de morbimortalidade relativamente elevadas, apesar dos avanços progressivos dos cuidados clínicos e cirúrgicos perioperatórios. A parada circulatória com hipotermia profunda, com perfusão cerebralretrógrada ou perfusão cerebral seletivaanterógrada associadas, mostraram-se úteis em reduzir as complicações desse tipo de cirurgia. Porém, as taxas de acidente vascular encefálico (AVE) e sangramento, dentre outros, ainda precisam de redução adicional. Neste artigo, relata-se uma nova técnica para cirurgias do arco aórtico, utilizando perfusão cerebral seletiva anterógrada ebilateral, através do isolamento do tronco braquicefálico (TBE) e carótida esquerda. Uma das vantagens observadas com essa nova técnica é queela permite a perfusão em separado do cérebro, que é mantido em temperatura mais baixa (200 C a 250C) em relação ao resto do corpo (250 C), possibilitandoo reaquecimento mais rápido do paciente ao final da cirurgia e reduzindo o tempo de circulação extracorpórea e discrasias sangüíneas. Ao final da cirurgia, pelas características anatômicas dos enxertos, a revisão da hemostasia é mais fácil. E, finalmente, no caso de necessidade de uso posteriorde uma endoprótese aórtica, esta pode ser facilmente colocada até próximo da válvula aórtica, sem comprometer o fluxo sangüíneo cerebral.

Aortic arch diseases that need surgical treatment still show relatively high morbi-mortality rates despite the rapid advances in clinical and surgical perioperative care. Deep hypothermic circulatory arrest with retrograde cerebral perfusion or anterograde selective cerebral perfusion showed tobe useful in reducing the complications of this type of surgery. However, stroke and bleeding rates, among others, still need further reduction. In this article, we describe a new technique for Aortic arch surgery with bilateral antegrade selective cerebral perfusion by isolation of innominate and left carotid arteries. Among the advantages of this techniqueis the possibility of perfusion separated from the brain, which is maintained at a lower temperature (200 C-250 C) in relation to the rest of the body (250C).This allows for faster rewarming of the patient following surgery as well as for shorter time of extracorporeal circulation. Another advantage isthat since the cerebral perfusion is not interrupted at any stage and is bilateral, the surgeon has more time to work on the aortic arch. At the end of surgery, the anatomical characteristics of the grafts allow for easier hemostasis review. Finally, an aortic endoprosthesis can be easily placed even closer tothe aortic valve without compromising the cerebral blood flow, if further needed.

Perfil clínico-epidemiológico da fibrilação atrial espontânea em cães / Clinical-epidemiological profile of spontaneous atrial fibrilation in dogs

Fundamentos: A fibrilação atrial (FA) é considerada a arritmia sustentada mais importante em medicina veterinária, estando usualmente associada à doença cardíaca estrutural, com manifestações clínicas de insuficiência cardíaca avançada. São poucos os trabalhos epidemiológicos na literatura internacional e raros os relatos no Brasil. Estudos comparativos sobre FA espontânea entre espécies têm sido raramente publicados. Objetivos: Conhecer o perfil-epidemiológico de uma coorte de cães portadores de FA espontânea, bem como comparar com o observado em seres humanos. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo com os dados dos registros de 108 cães com fibrilação atrial diagnosticada através do eletrocardiograma, no período entre janeiro de 1999 e janeiro de 2006 e os resultados comparados com o disposto na literatura relacionados com FA em cães e em humanos. Os dados coletados incluíram raça, sexo, idade, peso e freqüência cardíaca. Resultados: A investigação identificou que os animais pertenciam a 21 raças pura e a mestiços de várias raças, de ambos os sexos, com peso variando entre 5,5kg e 68kg. Todos os animais apresentavam sinais de insuficiência cardíaca estágios C ou D (NYHA), sendo identifdicados através de ecocardiograma e radiografia de tórax três grupos de cardiopatias: cardiopatia dilatada (49 por cento), endocardiose valvar mitral (36 por cento) e o terceiro grupo (15 por cento) incluiu outras causas, congênitas e adquiridas...

[Left internal thoracic artery to left pulmonary artery fistula after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. A rare cause of myocardial ischemia]. / Fístula de enxerto coronariano da artéria torácica interna esquerda para artéria pulmonar esquerda após cirurgia de revascularização miocárdica. Causa rara de isquemia miocárdica.

We report a patient who developed dyspnea on mild exertion six years after coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Myocardial ischemia was documented by radionuclide imaging, and coronary angiography showed patency of all grafts and a large fistula between the left internal thoracic artery (LITA) and the left pulmonary artery (LPA). The patient was submitted to surgical closure of the fistula and made an excellent recovery.

[Therapy of advanced heart failure adapted to hemodynamic objectives acquired by invasive hemodynamic monitoring]. / Terapia da insuficiência cardíaca avançada ajustada por objetivos hemodinâmicos obtidos pela monitorização invasiva.

OBJECTIVE: To assess advanced heart failure (HF) treatment in relation to reduction of ventricular filling pressures, with the use of greater doses of vasodilators, through invasive hemodynamic monitoring. METHODS: Nineteen advanced HF patients were studied, in whom Swan-Ganz catheter was inserted to direct administration of diuretic intravenously (IV) and sodium nitroprusside, with the aim of significantly reduce ventricular filling pressures. After achieving such objective or 48 hours, oral drugs were introduced until venous medicines were removed, keeping hemodynamic benefit. RESULTS: From 19 patients studied, 16 (84%) were of male sex. The average age was 66 +/- 11.4 years old; average ejection fraction was 26 +/- 6.3%; 2 patients (10.5%) showed functional class (FC) III and 17 (89.5%), FC IV. There was a decrease of pulmonary artery occlusion pressure from 23 +/- 11.50 mmHg to 16 +/- 4.05 mmHg (p = 0.008), of systemic vascular resistance index from 3,023 +/- 1,153.71 dynes/s/cm-5/m(2) to 1,834 +/- 719.34 dynes/s/cm-5/m(2) (p = 0.0001) and an increase of cardiac index from 2.1 +/- 0.56 l/min/m(2) to 2.8 +/- 0.73 l/min/m(2) (p = 0.0003). A subgroup with hypovolemia was identified. CONCLUSION: It was possible to reduce ventricular filling pressures to significantly lower values, obtaining a significant improvement of cardiac index, systemic vascular resistance index and pulmonary artery mean pressure, by using significantly higher doses of vasodilators.

Fístula de enxerto coronariano da artéria torácica interna esquerda para artéria pulmonar esquerda após cirurgia de revascularizacão miocárdica: causa rara de isquemia miocárdica / Left internal thoracic artery to left pulmonary artery fistula after coronary artery bypass graft surgery: a rare cause of myocardial ischemia

Descrevemos o caso de um paciente que, seis anos após cirurgia de revascularizacão do miocárdio, desenvolveu dispnéia aos pequenos esforcos. Foi documentada isquemia miocárdica por método de medicina nuclear e a cineangiocoronariografia mostrou todos os enxertos patentes com grande fístula da artéria torácica interna esquerda para artéria pulmonar esquerda. O paciente foi tratado com fechamento cirúrgico da fístula, tendo ótima evolucão pós-operatória.