Association Between Body Mass Index, Obesity, and Clinical Outcomes Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in Brazil: An Analysis of One Year of Follow-up of BYPASS Registry Patients.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the association between body mass index (BMI), obesity, clinical outcomes, and mortality following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in Brazil using a large sample with one year of follow-up from the Brazilian Registry of Cardiovascular Surgeries in Adults (or BYPASS) Registry database. METHODS: A multicenter cohort-study enrolled 2,589 patients submitted to isolated CABG and divided them into normal weight (BMI 20.0-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25.0-29.9 kg/m2), and obesity (BMI > 30.0 kg/m2) groups. Inpatient postoperative outcomes included the most frequently described complications and events. Collected post-discharge outcomes included rehospitalization and mortality rates within 30 days, six months, and one year of follow-up. RESULTS: Sternal wound infections (SWI) rate was higher in obese compared to normal-weight patients (relative risk [RR]=5.89, 95% confidence interval [CI]=2.37-17.82; P=0.001). Rehospitalization rates in six months after discharge were higher in obesity and overweight groups than in normal weight group (χ=6.03, P=0.049); obese patients presented a 2.2-fold increase in the risk for rehospitalization within six months compared to normal-weight patients (RR=2.16, 95% CI=1.17-4.09; P=0.045). Postoperative complications and mortality rates did not differ among groups during time periods. CONCLUSION: Obesity increased the risk for SWI, leading to higher rehospitalization rates and need for surgical interventions within six months following CABG. Age, female sex, and diabetes were associated with a higher risk of mortality. The obesity paradox remains controversial since BMI may not be sufficient to assess postoperative risk in light of more complex and dynamic evaluations of body composition and physical fitness.

Early Six-Minute Walk Test May Predict Midterm Outcomes Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting.

OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the ability of the six-minute walk distance (6MWD) as a prognostic marker for midterm clinical outcomes three months after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), to identify possible predictors of fall in 6MWD in the early postoperative period, and to establish the percentage fall in early postoperative 6MWD, considering the preoperative baseline as 100%. METHODS: A prospective cohort of patients undergoing elective CABG were included. The percentage fall in 6MWD was assessed by the difference between preoperative and postoperative day (POD) five. Clinical outcomes were evaluated three months after hospital discharge. RESULTS: There was a significant decrease in 6MWD on POD5 compared with preoperative baseline values (percentage fall of 32.5±16.5%, P<0.0001). Linear regression analysis showed an independent association of the percentage fall of 6MWD with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and preoperative inspiratory muscle strength. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the best cutoff value of percentage fall in 6MWD to predict poorer clinical outcomes at three months was 34.6% (area under the curve = 0.82, sensitivity = 78.95%, specificity = 76.19%, P=0.0001). CONCLUSION: This study indicates that a cutoff value of 34.6% in percentage fall of 6MWD on POD5 was able to predict poorer clinical outcomes at three months of follow-up after CABG. Use of CPB and preoperative inspiratory muscle strength were independent predictors of percentage fall of 6MWD in the postoperative period. These findings further support the clinical application of 6MWD and propose an inpatient preventive strategy to guide clinical management over time.

Early Six-Minute Walk Test May Predict Midterm Outcomes Following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

ABSTRACT Objective: This study aims to investigate the ability of the six-minute walk distance (6MWD) as a prognostic marker for midterm clinical outcomes three months after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), to identify possible predictors of fall in 6MWD in the early postoperative period, and to establish the percentage fall in early postoperative 6MWD, considering the preoperative baseline as 100%. Methods: A prospective cohort of patients undergoing elective CABG were included. The percentage fall in 6MWD was assessed by the difference between preoperative and postoperative day (POD) five. Clinical outcomes were evaluated three months after hospital discharge. Results: There was a significant decrease in 6MWD on POD5 compared with preoperative baseline values (percentage fall of 32.5±16.5%, P<0.0001). Linear regression analysis showed an independent association of the percentage fall of 6MWD with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and preoperative inspiratory muscle strength. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the best cutoff value of percentage fall in 6MWD to predict poorer clinical outcomes at three months was 34.6% (area under the curve = 0.82, sensitivity = 78.95%, specificity = 76.19%, P=0.0001). Conclusion: This study indicates that a cutoff value of 34.6% in percentage fall of 6MWD on POD5 was able to predict poorer clinical outcomes at three months of follow-up after CABG. Use of CPB and preoperative inspiratory muscle strength were independent predictors of percentage fall of 6MWD in the postoperative period. These findings further support the clinical application of 6MWD and propose an inpatient preventive strategy to guide clinical management over time.

Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Inhibitors Vs Calcineurin Inhibitors in Chronic Graft Rejection After Lung Transplantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The number of lung transplantations has been rising constantly. However, use of this therapeutic resource is limited by several issues that are difficult to resolve, such as chronic graft rejection and complications secondary to immunosuppression. METHODS: This systematic review compared mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor immunosuppression associated with low-dose calcineurin inhibitors with isolated calcineurin inhibitor immunosuppression on the new-onset chronic rejection development and mortality 12 months after lung transplantation. Three controlled randomized clinical trials (SHITRIT, NOCTET, and 4EVERLUNG) were selected from electronic databases. RESULTS: Meta-analysis of the data at 12 months postintervention showed that only 4EVERLUNG assessed chronic graft rejection, with a higher incidence in the control group; however, the difference was not statistically significant (P = .197). Significant data were related to an increase in the number of adverse events (P = .0064) and improved renal function (P < .0001) in the mTOR inhibitor-based scheme. The other outcomes indicated a trend toward greater risk of death and acute graft rejection with the use of mTORs. CONCLUSIONS: The researchers suggest considering the use of mTOR inhibitors, whose greatest benefit is felt by patients with renal dysfunction, in association with the use of calcineurin inhibitors, because of the imminent risk of death among patients with renal failure.

Nursing care protocol for patients with a ventricular assist device.

OBJECTIVE: to develop and validate a nursing care protocol for patients with a ventricular assist device (VAD). METHOD: descriptive study, with a quantitative approach, for an instrument's methodological validation. Three stages were conducted: development of the instrument; protocol content validation according to the Delphi technique, and agreement among experts and the scientific literature. RESULTS: based on the content validation, a care protocol for patients with a VAD was created and assessed by Spanish experts. Of the 15 items evaluated by means of the content validity index (CVI), 10 presented solid evidence of validation, with Kappa ranging between 0.87 and 1. CONCLUSION: the method enabled the validation of interventions that will contribute to qualified and standardized care for patients with a VAD.

Nursing care protocol for patients with a ventricular assist device / Protocolo de atención de enfermería a pacientes con dispositivo de asistencia ventricular / Protocolo de cuidados de enfermagem a pacientes com dispositivo de assistência ventricular

ABSTRACT Objective: to develop and validate a nursing care protocol for patients with a ventricular assist device (VAD). Method: descriptive study, with a quantitative approach, for an instrument's methodological validation. Three stages were conducted: development of the instrument; protocol content validation according to the Delphi technique, and agreement among experts and the scientific literature. Results: based on the content validation, a care protocol for patients with a VAD was created and assessed by Spanish experts. Of the 15 items evaluated by means of the content validity index (CVI), 10 presented solid evidence of validation, with Kappa ranging between 0.87 and 1. Conclusion: the method enabled the validation of interventions that will contribute to qualified and standardized care for patients with a VAD.

RESUMEN Objetivo: elaborar y validar un protocolo de atención de enfermería a pacientes con dispositivo de asistencia ventricular (DAV). Método: estudio descriptivo, con abordaje cuantitativo, de validación metodológica de instrumento. Se siguieron tres etapas: elaboración del instrumento; validación del contenido del protocolo según técnica de Delphi y concordancia entre expertos y la literatura científica. Resultados: en base a la validación del contenido, se elaboró un protocolo referido a la atención de pacientes en uso de DAV, evaluado por expertos/jueces españoles. De los 15 ítems evaluados, mediante el índice de Validez de Contenido (IVC), 10 de ellos presentaron fuerte evidencia de validación con Kappa, variando entre 0,87 y 1. Conclusión: el método permitió validar intervenciones que contribuirán a una atención calificada y uniforme a pacientes en uso de DAV.

RESUMO Objetivo: elaborar e validar um protocolo de cuidados de enfermagem a pacientes com dispositivo de assistência ventricular (DAV). Método: estudo descritivo, com abordagem quantitativa de validação metodológica de instrumento. Seguiram-se três etapas: elaboração do instrumento; validação do conteúdo do protocolo segundo a técnica de Delphi e concordância entre peritos e a literatura científica. Resultados: com base na validação do conteúdo, elaborou-se um protocolo referente aos cuidados a paciente em uso de DAV avaliado por peritos/juízes espanhóis. Dos 15 itens avaliados, por meio do Índice de Validade de Conteúdo (IVC), 10 deles apresentaram forte evidência de validação com Kappa que variaram de 0,87 a 1. Conclusão: o método permitiu validar intervenções que contribuirão para um cuidado qualificado e uniformizado a pacientes em uso de DAV.

Analysis of the Use of Extracorporeal Circulation on the In-Hospital Outcomes of Dialytic Patients Who Underwent Myocardial Revascularization Surgery / Análise do Uso da Circulação Extracorpórea na Evolução Intra-Hospitalar de Pacientes Dialíticos Submetidos à Revascularização Cirúrgica do Miocárdio

Abstract Background: Myocardial revascularization surgery is the best treatment for dyalitic patients with multivessel coronary disease. However, the procedure still has high morbidity and mortality. The use of extracorporeal circulation (ECC) can have a negative impact on the in-hospital outcomes of these patients. Objectives: To evaluate the differences between the techniques with ECC and without ECC during the in-hospital course of dialytic patients who underwent surgical myocardial revascularization. Methods: Unicentric study on 102 consecutive, unselected dialytic patients, who underwent myocardial revascularization surgery in a tertiary university hospital from 2007 to 2014. Results: Sixty-three patients underwent surgery with ECC and 39 without ECC. A high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors was found in both groups, without statistically significant difference between them. The group "without ECC" had greater number of revascularizations (2.4 vs. 1.7; p <0.0001) and increased need for blood components (77.7% vs. 25.6%; p <0.0001) and inotropic support (82.5% vs 35.8%; p <0.0001). In the postoperative course, the group "without ECC" required less vasoactive drugs, (61.5% vs. 82.5%; p = 0.0340) and shorter time of mechanical ventilation (13.0 hours vs. 36,3 hours, p = 0.0217), had higher extubation rates in the operating room (58.9% vs. 23.8%, p = 0.0006), lower infection rates (7.6% vs. 28.5%; p = 0.0120), and shorter ICU stay (5.2 days vs. 8.1 days; p = 0.0054) as compared with the group with ECC surgery. No difference in mortality was found between the groups. Conclusion: Myocardial revascularization with ECC in patients on dialysis resulted in higher morbidity in the perioperative period in comparison with the procedure without ECC, with no difference in mortality though.

Resumo Fundamento: A revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio é o melhor tratamento para o paciente dialítico com doença coronariana multiarterial. Contudo, o procedimento ainda apresenta elevada morbimortalidade. O uso da circulação extracorpórea (CEC) pode impactar de maneira negativa na evolução intra-hospitalar desses pacientes. Objetivos: Avaliar a diferença entre as técnicas com ou sem CEC na evolução intra-hospitalar de pacientes dialíticos submetidos a cirurgia de revascularização do miocárdio. Métodos: Estudo unicêntrico de 102 pacientes dialíticos consecutivos e não selecionados, submetidos à revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio em um hospital terciário universitário no período de 2007 a 2014. Resultados: 63 pacientes foram operados com CEC e 39 sem o uso de CEC. Foi observada alta prevalência de fatores de risco cardiovascular em ambos grupos, porém sem diferença estatisticamente significante entre eles. O grupo "com CEC" apresentou maior número de coronárias revascularizadas (2,4 vs 1,7; p <0,0001), maior necessidade de hemocomponentes (77,7% vs 25,6%; p <0,0001) e apoio inotrópico (82,5% vs 35,8%; p <0,0001). Na evolução pós-operatória, o grupo "sem CEC" apresentou menor necessidade de drogas vasoativas (61,5% vs 82,5%; p = 0,0340), maior taxa de extubação em sala cirúrgica (58,9% vs 23,8%, p = 0,0006), menor tempo de ventilação mecânica (13,0 horas vs 36,3 horas, p = 0,0217), menor taxa de infecções (7,6% vs 28,5%; p = 0,0120) e menor tempo de internação em UTI (5,2 dias vs 8,1 dias; p = 0,0054) em comparação ao grupo "com CEC". Não houve diferença de mortalidade entre os grupos. Conclusão: O uso da CEC na revascularização do miocárdio em pacientes dialíticos resultou em maior morbidade no período perioperatório em comparação ao procedimento realizado sem CEC, contudo, sem diferença de mortalidade.

Analysis of the Use of Extracorporeal Circulation on the In-Hospital Outcomes of Dialytic Patients Who Underwent Myocardial Revascularization Surgery.

BACKGROUND: Myocardial revascularization surgery is the best treatment for dyalitic patients with multivessel coronary disease. However, the procedure still has high morbidity and mortality. The use of extracorporeal circulation (ECC) can have a negative impact on the in-hospital outcomes of these patients. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the differences between the techniques with ECC and without ECC during the in-hospital course of dialytic patients who underwent surgical myocardial revascularization. METHODS: Unicentric study on 102 consecutive, unselected dialytic patients, who underwent myocardial revascularization surgery in a tertiary university hospital from 2007 to 2014. RESULTS: Sixty-three patients underwent surgery with ECC and 39 without ECC. A high prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors was found in both groups, without statistically significant difference between them. The group "without ECC" had greater number of revascularizations (2.4 vs. 1.7; p <0.0001) and increased need for blood components (77.7% vs. 25.6%; p <0.0001) and inotropic support (82.5% vs 35.8%; p <0.0001). In the postoperative course, the group "without ECC" required less vasoactive drugs, (61.5% vs. 82.5%; p = 0.0340) and shorter time of mechanical ventilation (13.0 hours vs. 36,3 hours, p = 0.0217), had higher extubation rates in the operating room (58.9% vs. 23.8%, p = 0.0006), lower infection rates (7.6% vs. 28.5%; p = 0.0120), and shorter ICU stay (5.2 days vs. 8.1 days; p = 0.0054) as compared with the group with ECC surgery. No difference in mortality was found between the groups. CONCLUSION: Myocardial revascularization with ECC in patients on dialysis resulted in higher morbidity in the perioperative period in comparison with the procedure without ECC, with no difference in mortality though.

Cardiopulmonary bypass increases the risk of vasoplegic syndrome after coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with dialysis-dependent chronic renal failure / O uso da circulação extracorpórea aumenta o risco de síndrome vasoplégica em pacientes com insuficiência renal crônica hemodialítica submetidos à revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio

AbstractObjective:Coronary artery bypass grafting is currently the best treatment for dialysis patients with multivessel coronary artery involvement. Vasoplegic syndrome of inflammatory etiology constitutes an important postoperative complication, with highly negative impact on prognosis. Considering that these patients have an intrinsic inflammatory response exacerbation, our goal was to evaluate the incidence and mortality of vasoplegic syndrome after myocardial revascularization in this group.Methods:A retrospective, single-center study of 50 consecutive and non-selected dialysis patients who underwent myocardial revascularization in a tertiary university hospital, from 2007 to 2012. The patients were divided into 2 groups, according to the use of cardiopulmonary bypass or not (off-pump coronary artery bypass). The incidence and mortality of vasoplegic syndrome were analyzed. The subgroup of vasoplegic patients was studied separately.Results:There were no preoperative demographic differences between the cardiopulmonary bypass (n=20) and off-pump coronary artery bypass (n=30) group. Intraoperative data showed a greater number of distal coronary arteries anastomosis (2.8 vs. 1.8, P<0.0001) and higher transfusion rates (65% vs. 23%, P=0.008) in the cardiopulmonary bypass group. Vasoplegia incidence was statistically higher (P=0.0124) in the cardiopulmonary bypass group (30%) compared to the off-pump coronary artery bypass group (3%). Vasoplegia mortality was 50% in the cardiopulmonary bypass group and 0% in the off-pump coronary artery bypass group. The vasoplegic subgroup analysis showed no statistically significant clinical differences.Conclusion:Cardiopulmonary bypass increased the risk for developing postoperative vasoplegic syndrome after coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with dialysis-dependent chronic renal failure.

ResumoObjetivo:O melhor tratamento atual para os pacientes dialíticos com acometimento coronariano multiarterial é a revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio. Dentre as complicações pós-operatórias, a síndrome vasoplégica de etiopatogenia inflamatória torna-se importante pelo impacto altamente negativo no prognóstico. Considerando que esses pacientes possuem uma exacerbação intrínseca da resposta inflamatória, nosso objetivo foi avaliar a incidência e a mortalidade da síndrome vasoplégica no pós-operatório de revascularização miocárdica nesse grupo.Métodos:Estudo retrospectivo, unicêntrico, de 50 pacientes dialíticos consecutivos e não selecionados, submetidos à revascularização miocárdica, em um hospital terciário universitário, no período de 2007 a 2012. Esses pacientes foram divididos em 2 grupos, de acordo com o emprego ou não da circulação extracorpórea. A incidência e a mortalidade da vasoplegia foram analisadas nos grupos. Após a identificação dos pacientes quanto à presença de vasoplegia, este subgrupo foi estudado separadamente.Resultados:Não houve diferenças demográficas pré-operatórias entre os grupos com circulação extracorpórea (n=20) e sem circulação extracorpórea (n=30). Dados intraoperatórios demonstraram maior número de artérias coronárias revascularizadas (2,8 vs. 1,8; P<0,0001) e maior necessidade de transfusão (65% vs. 23%; P=0,008) no grupo circulação extracorpórea. A incidência de vasoplegia foi estatisticamente maior (P=0,0124) no grupo circulação extracorpórea (30%) em comparação ao grupo sem circulação extracorpórea (3%). A mortalidade dos pacientes com vasoplegia foi 50% no grupo circulação extracorpórea e 0% no grupo sem circulação extracorpórea. A análise do subgrupo vasoplégico não demonstrou diferenças clínicas estatisticamente significantes.Conclusão:O emprego da circulação extracorpórea na revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio em pacientes com insuficiência renal crônica dialítica aumentou o risco para desenvolvimento de síndrome vasoplégica pós-operatória.

Cardiopulmonary bypass increases the risk of vasoplegic syndrome after coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with dialysis-dependent chronic renal failure.

OBJECTIVE: Coronary artery bypass grafting is currently the best treatment for dialysis patients with multivessel coronary artery involvement. Vasoplegic syndrome of inflammatory etiology constitutes an important postoperative complication, with highly negative impact on prognosis. Considering that these patients have an intrinsic inflammatory response exacerbation, our goal was to evaluate the incidence and mortality of vasoplegic syndrome after myocardial revascularization in this group. METHODS: A retrospective, single-center study of 50 consecutive and non-selected dialysis patients who underwent myocardial revascularization in a tertiary university hospital, from 2007 to 2012. The patients were divided into 2 groups, according to the use of cardiopulmonary bypass or not (off-pump coronary artery bypass). The incidence and mortality of vasoplegic syndrome were analyzed. The subgroup of vasoplegic patients was studied separately. RESULTS: There were no preoperative demographic differences between the cardiopulmonary bypass (n=20) and off-pump coronary artery bypass (n=30) group. Intraoperative data showed a greater number of distal coronary arteries anastomosis (2.8 vs. 1.8, P<0.0001) and higher transfusion rates (65% vs. 23%, P=0.008) in the cardiopulmonary bypass group. Vasoplegia incidence was statistically higher (P=0.0124) in the cardiopulmonary bypass group (30%) compared to the off-pump coronary artery bypass group (3%). Vasoplegia mortality was 50% in the cardiopulmonary bypass group and 0% in the off-pump coronary artery bypass group. The vasoplegic subgroup analysis showed no statistically significant clinical differences. CONCLUSION: Cardiopulmonary bypass increased the risk for developing postoperative vasoplegic syndrome after coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with dialysis-dependent chronic renal failure.

Estudo da Fase Intra-hospitalar da Revascularizacao Cirurgica do Miocardio em Pacientes Dialiticos / Myocardial Revascularization in Dyalitic Patients: In-Hospital Period Evaluation

Fundamentos: Atualmente, a revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio é o melhor tratamento para o paciente dialítico com lesão coronariana multiarterial, contudo a mortalidade e a morbidade hospitalar do procedimento ainda permanecem altas. Objetivos: Avaliar os resultados e a evolução intra-hospitalar da revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio isolada em pacientes dialíticos. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo unicêntrico de 50 pacientes dialíticos consecutivos e não selecionados, submetidos à revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio em um hospital terciário universitário no período de 2007 a 2012. Resultados: A casuística apresentou alta prevalência de fatores de risco cardiovasculares (100% hipertensos, 68% diabéticos e 40% dislipidêmicos). Não houve óbito intraoperatório, e 60% dos procedimentos foram feitos sem circulação extracorpórea. Houve sete (14%) óbitos intra-hospitalares. Infecção pós-operatória, insuficiência cardíaca prévia, uso de circulação extracorpórea, função ventricular anormal e reexploração cirúrgica foram os fatores associados a maior mortalidade. Conclusão: A revascularização cirúrgica do miocárdio é um procedimento factível para essa classe de pacientes, contudo com alta morbidade e mortalidade intra-hospitalar. É necessário melhor entendimento das particularidades metabólicas desses pacientes para o planejamento adequado das condutas. .

Background: Coronary artery bypass grafting currently is the best treatment for dialytic patients with multivessel coronary disease, but hospital morbidity and mortality related to procedure is still high. Objective: Evaluate results and in-hospital outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting in dialytic patients. Methods: Retrospective unicentric study including 50 consecutive and not selected dialytic patients, who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting in a tertiary university hospital from 2007 to 2012. Results: High prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors was observed (100% hypertensive, 68% diabetic and 40% dyslipidemic). There was no intra-operative death and 60% of the procedures were performed off-pump. There were seven (14%) in-hospital deaths. Postoperative infection, previous heart failure, cardiopulmonary bypass, abnormal ventricular function and surgical re-exploration were associated with increased mortality. Conclusion: Coronary artery bypass grafting is feasible to dialytic patients although high in-hospital morbidity and mortality. It is necessary better understanding about metabolic aspects to plan adequate interventions. .

Transplante cardíaco no tratamento da insuficiência cardíaca refratária. Análise crítica do seus resultados / Heart transplantation in the treatment of end-stage heart failure. Critical of its results

O transplante cardíaco, quando bem indicado, é o melhor tratamento nas insuficiências cardíacas refratárias de diferentes etiologias. É importante levar em conta considerações sobre o receptor, o doador e cuidados perioperatórios que vão certamente influenciar o prognóstico. Na seleção dos receptores são avaliados os diversos sistemas orgânicos que possam implicar em complicações no pós-operatório e determinar um prognóstico ruim na evolução. Existem diversas diretrizes e protocolos disponíveis para orientação em diferentes aspectos e diferentes escores para avaliação e determinação do prognóstico do paciente com insuficiência cardíaca avançada, sendo os mais conhecidos: o The Seattle Heart Failure Model e o Heart Failure Survival Score (HFSS). Quanto à técnica operatória, a tendência atual é pela técnica bicaval, que parece oferecer menos alterações de ritmo e menos insuficiência valvares se comparado à técnica biatrial: no entanto, os benefícios na sobrevida ainda são contraditórios. Convém lembrar que o coração transplantado é desnervado e isso tem implicações clínicas. Quanto à imunossupressão, existem diferentes protocolos, porém os diferentes grupos têm usado mais comumente o Esquema Tríplice, com corticóides, ciclosporina (ou tracolimo) e micofenolato sódico. Nos pacientes que apresentavam miocardiopatia Chagásica existem vantagens do uso da azatioprina substituindo o micofenolato. O padrão ouro para o diagnóstico das rejeições celulares, ainda que invasivo, é a biópsia endomiocárdica. Em razão da imunossupressão , deve-se ficar atento à suscetibilidade às complicações infecciosas (bacterianas, virais, fúngicas ou protozoários), este é um problema permanente. A recidiva de Doença de Chagas não é incomum. Dentre as complicações mais tardias, vamos observar que grande parte delas estrá relacionada a efeitos colaterias das drogas imunodepressoras ou a rejeição...

Cardiac transplantation, when property indicated, is the best treatment in refractory heart failure of different etiologies. It is important to take into account considerations of the receiver, the donor and perioperative care that will influence the prognosis. In selecting recepients are evaluated various organ systems that result in postoperative complications and a poor prognosis in determining evolution. There are various guidelines and protocols available for guidance in different aspects , and there are different scores for evaluating and determining the prognosis of patients with advanced heart failure, the most popular: The Seattle Heart Failure Model, and the Heart Failure Survival Score (HFSS). Regarding the surgical technique is the current trend by Bicaval Technique that seems to offer less valve insufficiencies and less disturbances of rhythm compared to the Standard Tecnique, however the benefits on survival are still contradictory. Remember that the transplantated heart is denervated and this has clinical implications. As for immunosuppresive protocols are different, but different groups have used most commonly Scheme Triple with corticosteroids, cyclosporine (or tacrolimus) and mycophenolate sodium. In patients with Chagas cardiomyopathy there are advantages of using azathioprine, mycophenolate replacing. The gold standard for diagnosis of cellular rejection, although invasive, is endomyocardial biopsy. Because of immunossuppression, should be attentive to susceptibilty to infectious complications (bacterial, viral, fungal and protozoal), this is an ongoing problem. Recurrence of Chagas disease is not uncommon. Among the long-term compliocations, we observer that most of them will be related to side effects of immunosuppressive drugs or rejection. So it is common the hypertension, renal impairment to varying degrees, hyperlipidemia and diabetes...

Validation of a protocol to assist patients with intra-aortic balloon

OBJECTIVE: To develop a protocol of care for patients with Intra-Aortic Balloon and validate the content of this protocol. METHODS: Study of quantitative and descriptive approach. The methodology followed three steps: development of the instrument; content validity and reliability verification of the protocol for the analysis of agreement between specialists with greater experience. The study included 48 specialists, including physicians and nurses experienced in patient care in use of balloon. Items considered valid achieved at least 75% of consensus before the analysis of agreement between evaluators. RESULTS: We evaluated 36 items, of these, 20 were considered valid. The reliability was also verified, using consistency of the responses of more experienced evaluators. Among the items submitted to new statistical analysis by these evaluators, only two were considered valid. CONCLUSION: Based on the content validation, a protocol with 22 items concerning patient care without the use of intra-aortic balloon was developed.

OBJETIVOS: Elaborar um protocolo de cuidados a pacientes com Balão Intra Aórtico e validar o conteúdo desse protocolo. MÉTODOS: Estudo de abordagem quantitativa, descritivo. A trajetória metodológica seguiu três etapas: elaboração do instrumento; validação do conteúdo e verificação da confiabilidade do protocolo pela análise de concordância entre peritos com maior tempo de experiência. Participaram do estudo 48 peritos, entre médicos e enfermeiros, experientes em assistência ao paciente em uso do balão. Os itens considerados válidos obtiveram consenso mínimo de 75% perante a análise de concordância entre os avaliadores. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 36 itens, destes, 20 foram considerados válidos. Verificou-se também a confiabilidade, utilizando a congruência das respostas dos avaliadores mais experientes. Dos itens submetidos à nova análise estatística por esses avaliadores, apenas dois foram considerados válidos. CONCLUSÃO: Com base na validação do conteúdo, elaborou-se um protocolo com 22 itens referentes aos cuidados a paciente sem uso do Balão Intra-Aórtico.

OBJETIVOS: Elaborar un protocolo de cuidados a pacientes con Balón Intraaórtico y validar el contenido de ese protocolo. MÉTODOS: Estudio de abordaje cuantitativo, descriptivo. La trayectoria metodológica siguió tres etapas: elaboración del instrumento; validación del contenido y verificación de la confiabilidad del protocolo por el análisis de concordancia entre peritos con mayor tiempo de experiencia. Participaron en el estudio 48 peritos, entre médicos y enfermeros, con experiencia en asistencia al paciente en uso del balón. Los items considerados válidos obtuvieron consenso mínimo del 75% frente al análisis de concordancia entre los evaluadores. RESULTADOS: Fueron evaluados 36 items, de éstos, 20 fueron considerados válidos. Se verificó también la confiabilidad, utilizando la congruencia de las respuestas de los evaluadores más experientes. De los items sometidos al nuevo análisis estadístico por esos evaluadores, apenas dos se considerarons válidos. CONCLUSIÓN: Con base en la validación del contenido, se elaboró un protocolo con 22 items referentes a los cuidados al paciente sin uso del Balón Intraaórtico.

Assessment and medium-term follow up of heart transplant candidates undergoing low-intensity exercise.

OBJECTIVE: To study cardiovascular behavior and safety regarding a low-intensity exercise program for heart transplant candidates with severe heart failure. METHODS: Twenty-one patients with severe heart failure on the transplant list of the UNIFESP university hospital (Brazil) were studied. Following evaluation, the patients were monitored during an exercise program with six progressive phases (1--upper limbs; 2--lower limbs; 3--walking; 4--½ flight of stairs; 5--walking 200 m; and 6--whole flight of stairs), with the intensity estimated at two to six metabolic equivalents (1 MET = 3.5 ml of O2/kg/min.). The patients were prospectively followed up for approximately 17 months for the occurrence of clinical complications and death. RESULTS: Three patients were unable to perform the complete program; BMI, maximal respiratory pressure (Pimax and Pemax, cmH2O) and number of previous hospitalizations were considered predictors for this subgroup. Heart rate (HR, bpm), double product (DP, bpm x mmHg) and Borg perceived exertion scale (PE) underwent the greatest oscillation during exercise, especially in phase 5 (H"METS), and are considered the best markers related to exertion. Blood pressure (BP, mmHg) oscillated little. There was no increase in the incidence of arrhythmia (Kappa = 0.552) during exercise. There was a moderate positive correlation between PE and BP (r = 0.4; P = 0.02) in phase 5 (walking 200 m). The patients who died had low Pimax values upon the initial evaluation. During the exercise program, there was a reduction in BP response and an increase in HR response. CONCLUSION: Regarding cardiovascular behavior, the exercise program proved safe and well tolerated, but there is a need for monitoring. Information obtained upon the initial evaluation and during exercise program is associated to decompensation and death. Such information could assist in determining the stage of the disease.

Avaliação e seguimento em médio prazo em candidatos a transplante cardíaco submetidos a exercício de baixa intensidade / Assessment and medium-term follow up of heart transplant candidates undergoing low-intensity exercise

OBJETIVOS: Estudar o comportamento cardiovascular e segurança frente a protocolo de exercícios de baixa intensidade em pacientes com insuficiência cardíaca (IC) grave, candidatos a transplante cardíaco. MÉTODOS: Foram estudados 21 pacientes com IC grave, inscritos na lista de transplante cardíaco do Hospital Universitário da UNIFESP. Após avaliação, os pacientes foram monitorados durante a realização de protocolo de exercício com seis fases progressivas (1º membros superiores, 2º membros inferiores, 3º caminhada 35 m, 4º ½ lance de escada, 5º caminhada de 200 m e 6º 1 lance de escada), com intensidade estimada em 2 a 6 equivalentes metabólicos (1 MET = 3,5 ml de O2/kg/min.). Os pacientes foram acompanhados prospectivamente por aproximadamente 17 meses quanto à ocorrência de complicações clínicas e óbito. RESULTADOS: Dentre os pacientes estudados, três não foram capazes de realizar o protocolo completo, sendo as variáveis índice de massa corporal (IMC), pressão respiratória máxima (Pimáx e Pemáx, cmH2O) e número de internações prévias, consideradas preditivas neste subgrupo. Frente ao protocolo de exercício, a frequência cardíaca (FC, bpm), duplo produto (DP, bpm x mmHg) e escala de percepção de esforço (EP, Borg) apresentaram maior oscilação, principalmente durante a fase 5 (H"5 METS), sendo considerados os melhores marcadores relativos ao esforço. A pressão arterial (PA, mmHg) apresentou pouca oscilação. Não houve aumento da incidência de arritmias (Kappa=0,552) frente ao esforço. Observamos correlação positiva moderada entre a EP apenas na fase 6 (caminhada de 200m), com PA (r=0,4; P=0,02). Nos pacientes com desfecho óbito, foram observados valores reduzidos de PiMax na avaliação prévia. Durante o protocolo, redução da resposta de PA e maior elevação da resposta de FC. CONCLUSÃO: O comportamento cardiovascular frente ao protocolo de exercícios foi bem tolerado e seguro, mas reforça a necessidade de monitoração. Informações obtidas na avaliação clínica inicial e durante o protocolo estão associadas com a descompensação e óbito tardio, e podem auxiliar no estadiamento destes pacientes.

OBJECTIVE: To study cardiovascular behavior and safety regarding a low-intensity exercise program for heart transplant candidates with severe heart failure. METHODS: Twenty-one patients with severe heart failure on the transplant list of the UNIFESP university hospital (Brazil) were studied. Following evaluation, the patients were monitored during an exercise program with six progressive phases (1 - upper limbs; 2 - lower limbs; 3 - walking; 4 - ½ flight of stairs; 5 - walking 200 m; and 6 - whole flight of stairs), with the intensity estimated at two to six metabolic equivalents (1 MET = 3.5 ml of O2/kg/min.). The patients were prospectively followed up for approximately 17 months for the occurrence of clinical complications and death. RESULTS: Three patients were unable to perform the complete program; BMI, maximal respiratory pressure (Pimax and Pemax, cmH2O) and number of previous hospitalizations were considered predictors for this subgroup. Heart rate (HR, bpm), double product (DP, bpm x mmHg) and Borg perceived exertion scale (PE) underwent the greatest oscillation during exercise, especially in phase 5 (H"METS), and are considered the best markers related to exertion. Blood pressure (BP, mmHg) oscillated little. There was no increase in the incidence of arrhythmia (Kappa=0.552) during exercise. There was a moderate positive correlation between PE and BP (r=0.4; P=0.02) in phase 5 (walking 200 m). The patients who died had low Pimax values upon the initial evaluation. During the exercise program, there was a reduction in BP response and an increase in HR response. CONCLUSION: Regarding cardiovascular behavior, the exercise program proved safe and well tolerated, but there is a need for monitoring. Information obtained upon the initial evaluation and during exercise program is associated to decompensation and death. Such information could assist in determining the stage of the disease.

Short-duration transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery.

BACKGROUND: Respiratory muscle strength has been related to the postoperative outcome of cardiac surgeries. The main documented therapeutic purpose of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is the reduction of pain, which could bring secondary benefits to the respiratory muscles and, consequently, to lung capacities and volumes. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of short-duration transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in the reduction of pain and its possible influence on respiratory muscle strength and lung capacity and volumes of patients in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery. METHODS: Twenty five patients with mean age of 59.9 +/- 10.3 years, of whom 72% were men, and homogeneous as regards weight and height, were randomly assigned to two groups. One group received therapeutic TENS (n = 13) and the other, placebo TENS (n = 12), for four hours on the third postoperative day of cardiac surgery. Pain was analyzed by means of a visual analogue scale, and of respiratory muscle strength as measured by maximum respiratory pressures and lung capacity and volumes before and after application of TENS. RESULTS: Short-duration TENS significantly reduced pain of patients in the postoperative period (p < 0.001). Respiratory muscle strength (p < 0.001), tidal volume (p < 0.001) and vital capacity (p < 0.05) significantly improved after therapeutic TENS, unlike in the placebo group. CONCLUSION: Short-duration TENS proved effective for the reduction of pain and improvement of respiratory muscle strength, as well as of lung volumes and capacity.

Estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea de curta duração no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca / Short-duration transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery

FUNDAMENTO: A força muscular respiratória tem sido relacionada com a evolução no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca. A estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea (TENS) tem como principal finalidade terapêutica documentada a redução da dor; beneficio esse que poderia produzir benefícios secundários na força muscular respiratória e, consequentemente, nos volumes e capacidades pulmonares. OBJETIVOS: O presente trabalho procurou avaliar a efetividade da estimulação elétrica nervosa transcutânea (TENS) de curta duração para redução da dor e possíveis interferências e na força muscular respiratória, volumes e capacidade pulmonar em pacientes no pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca. MÉTODOS: Vinte e cinco pacientes com idade média de 59,9±10,3 anos, sendo 72 por cento homens, homogêneos quanto a peso e altura, foram aleatoriamente alocados em dois grupos. Um grupo recebeu a TENS tratamento (n=13) e outro, a TENS placebo (n=12), por período de quatro horas, no terceiro dia do pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca, avaliando a dor a partir da escala visual analógica, força muscular respiratória pelas pressões respiratórias máximas, volumes e capacidade pulmonar antes e após a aplicação da TENS. RESULTADOS: A TENS de curta duração reduziu a dor de pacientes no período pós-operatório de forma significativa (p<0,001). A força muscular respiratória (p<0,001), o volume corrente (p<0,001) e a capacidade vital (p<0,05) após a TENS tratamento demonstraram melhora significativa, alterações que não ocorreram no grupo placebo. CONCLUSÃO: A TENS de curta duração mostrou-se efetiva para redução da dor, melhora da força muscular respiratória, volumes e capacidade pulmonar.

BACKGROUND: Respiratory muscle strength has been related to the postoperative outcome of cardiac surgeries. The main documented therapeutic purpose of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is the reduction of pain, which could bring secondary benefits to the respiratory muscles and, consequently, to lung capacities and volumes. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of short-duration transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) in the reduction of pain and its possible influence on respiratory muscle strength and lung capacity and volumes of patients in the postoperative period of cardiac surgery. METHODS: Twenty five patients with mean age of 59.9 ± 10.3 years, of whom 72 percent were men, and homogeneous as regards weight and height, were randomly assigned to two groups. One group received therapeutic TENS (n = 13) and the other, placebo TENS (n = 12), for four hours on the third postoperative day of cardiac surgery. Pain was analyzed by means of a visual analogue scale, and of respiratory muscle strength as measured by maximum respiratory pressures and lung capacity and volumes before and after application of TENS. RESULTS: Short-duration TENS significantly reduced pain of patients in the postoperative period (p < 0.001). Respiratory muscle strength (p < 0.001), tidal volume (p < 0.001) and vital capacity (p < 0.05) significantly improved after therapeutic TENS, unlike in the placebo group. CONCLUSION: Short-duration TENS proved effective for the reduction of pain and improvement of respiratory muscle strength, as well as of lung volumes and capacity. (Arq Bras Cardiol 2010; 94(3):325-331)

Cardio-respiratory responses of the 6-minute walk test in patients with refractory heart failure during the preoperative period for heart transplant surgery.

BACKGROUND: The six-minute walk test (6MWT) has been used to assess functional capacity, clinical status and prognosis. There are a very few descriptions in the literature on the safety and metabolic impact of the test, especially in patients with severe heart failure, awaiting cardiac transplantation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to assess the cardiovascular responses and correlate the performance on the 6MWT with clinical status. METHOD: From 15 initial candidates, twelve patients (10 males) aged 52 +/- 8 years were submitted to a comprehensive clinical evaluation. The patients performed the 6MWT with electrocardiographic and perceived exertion monitoring in addition to determination of blood lactate concentration. Patients were followed up for 12 months. RESULTS: The patients walked 399.4 +/- 122.5 meters, reaching a perceived exertion (PE) of 14.3 +/- 1.5 and an increase of 34% in resting heart rate. Two patients exhibited a greater severity of arrhythmia prior to the 6MWT, which did not increase during exertion. Four patients exhibited a significant increase in blood lactate levels (>5 mmol/dL) and three interrupted the test prematurely. The distance walked (D) revealed a correlation with the ejection fraction (%) and functional classification (NYHA). After 12 months of follow up, three patients died and seven were re-hospitalized due to heart failure decompensation. CONCLUSION: Clinical and electrocardiographic behavior suggests that the 6MWT is safe, but may be considered of high intensity for some patients with severe heart failure. Variables related to the performance on the 6MWT may be associated to worsening clinical status in this population.