Resumen ejecutivo de la actualización 2023 del consenso de actuación básica durante el ingreso hospitalario por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda / Executive summary of the 2023 update on the consensus regarding basic conduct during hospital admission for patients with acute heart failure

La insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA) está asociada a una importante morbimortalidad, constituyendo la primera causa de hospitalización en mayores de 65 años en nuestro país. Las principales recomendaciones recogidas son: 1) al ingreso, se recomienda realizar una evaluación integral, considerando el tratamiento habitual y comorbilidades, ya que condicionan el pronóstico; 2) en las primeras horas de atención hospitalaria, el tratamiento descongestivo es prioritario, y se recomienda un abordaje terapéutico diurético precoz y escalonado en función de la respuesta; 3) durante la fase estable, se recomienda considerar el inicio y/o titulación del tratamiento con fármacos basados en la evidencia, es decir, sacubitrilo/valsartán o inhibidores de la enzima convertidora de angiotensina/antagonistas de los receptores de angiotensina II, betabloqueantes, antialdosterónicos e inhibidores SGLT2, y 4) en el momento del alta hospitalaria, es recomendable utilizar un listado —tipo check-list— para optimizar el manejo del paciente hospitalizado e identificar las opciones más eficientes para mantener la continuidad de cuidados tras el alta (AU)

Acute heart failure (AHF) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and it stands as the primary cause of hospitalization for individuals over the age of 65 in Spain. This document outlines the main recommendations as follows: (1) upon admission, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive assessment, taking into account the patient's standard treatment and comorbidities, as these factors determine the prognosis of the disease; (2) During the initial hours of hospital care, prioritizing decongestive treatment is essential. It is recommended to adopt an early staged diuretic therapeutic approach based on the patient's response; (3) In order to manage patients in the stable phase, it is advisable to consider initiating and/or adjusting evidence-based drug treatments such as sacubitril/valsartan or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta blockers, aldosterone antagonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors; (4) Upon hospital discharge, utilizing a checklist is recommended to optimize the patient's management and identify the most efficient options for ensuring continuity of care post-discharge (AU)

Manejo y tratamiento actual de la insuficiencia cardiaca en unidades acreditadas de cardiología y medicina interna en España / Current heart failure disease management and treatment in accredited units from cardiology and internal medicine in Spain

Antecedentes y objetivos La insuficiencia cardiaca (IC) es una patología compleja con una alta prevalencia, incidencia y mortalidad que conlleva un importante coste sanitario. En España existen unidades de IC (UIC) multidisciplinares, lideradas por cardiología y medicina interna. Nuestro objetivo era conocer su organización actual y adherencia a las últimas recomendaciones científicas. Materiales y métodos Un comité científico formado por cardiólogos e internistas elaboró una encuesta a finales de 2021, que fue enviada a 110 UIC. Setenta y tres de cardiología, acreditadas por SEC-Excelente, y 37 de medicina interna, integradas en el programa UMIPIC. Resultados Se recibieron 83 encuestas cumplimentadas (75,5%); 49 de cardiología y 34 de medicina interna. Los resultados mostraron que las UIC están integradas mayoritariamente por un cardiólogo, internista y enfermería especializada (34,9%). El perfil de paciente atendido en las UIC cardiológicas es muy diferente al paciente de las UMIPIC, siendo estos últimos mayores, con fracción de eyección ventricular izquierda conservada y más carga de comorbilidad. La mayoría de UIC actualmente realizan seguimiento mixto, presencial y telemático (73,5%). Los péptidos natriuréticos son los biomarcadores más utilizados (90%). Se titulan los cuatro grupos farmacológicos fundamentales de tratamiento de la IC a la vez mayoritariamente (85%). Solo 24% de las unidades mantienen una comunicación fluida con atención primaria. Conclusiones Los dos modelos de UIC liderados por cardiología y medicina interna son complementarios, disponen de enfermería especializada, y siguen al paciente de forma mixta, con una adherencia farmacológica muy alta a las últimas recomendaciones científicas. El principal punto de mejora es la coordinación con atención primaria (AU)

Background and objectives Heart failure (HF) is a complex disease with high prevalence, incidence and mortality rates leading to high healthcare burden. In Spain, there are multidisciplinary HF units coordinated by cardiology and internal medicine. Our objective was to describe its current organizational model and their adherence to the latest scientific recommendations. Materials and methods In late 2021, a scientific committee (with cardiology and internal medicine specialists) developed a questionnaire that was sent as an online survey to 110 HF units [73 from cardiology (accredited by SEC-Excelente) and 37 from internal medicine (integrated in UMIPIC program)]. Results We received 83 answers (75.5% total: 49 from cardiology and 34 from internal medicine). The results showed that HF units are mostly integrated by specialists from cardiology, internal medicine and specialized nurse practitioners (34.9%). Patient characteristics from HF units are widely different when comparing those in cardiology to UMIPIC, being the latter older, more frequently with preserved ejection fraction and higher comorbidity burden. Most HF units (73.5%) currently use a hybrid face-to-face/virtual model to perform patient follow-up. Natriuretic peptides are the biomarkers most commonly used (90%). All four disease-modifying drug classes are mainly implemented at the same time (85%). Only 24% of HF units hold fluent communication with primary care. Conclusions Both models from cardiology and internal medicine HF units are complementary, they include specialized nursing, they use hybrid approach for patient follow-up and they display a high adherence to the latest guideline recommendations. Coordination with primary care remains as the major improvement area (AU)

Executive summary of the 2023 update on the consensus regarding basic conduct during hospital admission for patients with acute heart failure.

Acute heart failure (AHF) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and it stands as the primary cause of hospitalization for individuals over the age of 65 in Spain. This document outlines the main recommendations as follows: (1) Upon admission, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive assessment, taking into account the patient's standard treatment and comorbidities, as these factors determine the prognosis of the disease. (2) During the initial hours of hospital care, prioritizing decongestive treatment is essential. It is recommended to adopt an early staged diuretic therapeutic approach based on the patient's response. (3) In order to manage patients in the stable phase, it is advisable to consider initiating and/or adjusting evidence-based drug treatments such as sacubitril/valsartan or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta blockers, aldosterone antagonists, and SGLT2 inhibitors. (4) Upon hospital discharge, utilizing a checklist is recommended to optimize the patient's management and identify the most efficient options for ensuring continuity of care post-discharge.

Current heart failure disease management and treatment in accredited units from cardiology and internal medicine in Spain.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Heart failure (HF) is a complex disease with high prevalence, incidence and mortality rates leading to high healthcare burden. In Spain, there are multidisciplinary HF units coordinated by cardiology and internal medicine. Our objective is to describe its current organizational model and their adherence to the latest scientific recommendations. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In late 2021, a scientific committee (with cardiology and internal medicine specialists) developed a questionnaire that was sent as an online survey to 110 HF units. 73 from cardiology (accredited by SEC-Excelente) and 37 from internal medicine, (integrated in UMIPIC program). RESULTS: We received 83 answers (75.5% total: 49 from cardiology and 34 from internal medicine). The results showed that HF units are mostly integrated by specialists from cardiology, internal medicine and specialized nurse practitioners (34.9%). Patient characteristics from HF units are widely different when comparing those in cardiology to UMIPIC, being the latter older, more frequently with preserved ejection fraction and higher comorbidity burden. Most HF units (73.5%) currently use a hybrid face-to-face/virtual model to perform patient follow-up. Natriuretic peptides are the biomarkers most commonly used (90%). All four disease-modifying drug classes are mainly implemented at the same time (85%). Only 24% of HF units hold fluent communication with primary care. CONCLUSIONS: Both models from cardiology and internal medicine HF units are complementary, they include specialized nursing, they use hybrid approach for patient follow-up and they display a high adherence to the latest guideline recommendations. Coordination with primary care remains as the major improvement area.

Beneficios de un modelo asistencial integral en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca y fracción de eyección preservada: Programa UMIPIC / Benefits of a comprehensive care model in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction: The UMIPIC program

Antecedentes Los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) y fracción de eyección preservada (ICFEp), a diferencia de aquellos con fracción de eyección reducida, son más ancianos, presentan más comorbilidades y no son candidatos a medidas terapéuticas eficaces. Por todo ello presentan un riesgo elevado de ingreso hospitalario y mortalidad. En este estudio se evaluó el beneficio de un modelo asistencial, caracterizado por una atención integral y continuada (programa UMIPIC) en pacientes con ICFEp. Métodos Se analizaron prospectivamente los datos de 2.401 pacientes con ICFEp atendidos en servicios de medicina interna, procedentes del registro RICA. Se dividieron en 2 grupos, uno en seguimiento en el programa UMIPIC (grupo UMIPIC, n: 1.011) y otro atendido de forma convencional (grupo RICA, n: 1.390). Se seleccionaron por emparejamiento (propensity score matching) 753 pacientes en cada grupo y se evaluaron los ingresos y la mortalidad durante 12 meses de seguimiento, tras un episodio de hospitalización por IC. Resultados El grupo UMIPIC, con respecto al RICA, en la cohorte emparejada, tuvo una menor tasa de ingresos por IC (19,2% frente a 36,5% respectivamente; hazard ratio [HR]=0,56; intervalo de confianza del 95% [IC 95%]: 0,45-0,68; p<0,001) y de mortalidad (12,6% frente a 28%, respectivamente; HR=0,40; IC 95%: 0,31-0,51; p<0,001). No se observaron diferencias en cuanto a ingresos por causas distintas a la IC. Conclusiones La implementación del programa asistencial UMIPIC a pacientes con ICFEp y elevada comorbilidad, basado en una atención integral y continuada, reduce tanto los ingresos como la mortalidad al año de seguimiento (AU)

Background Patients with heart failure (HF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), in contrast to those with reduced ejection fraction, are older, have more comorbidities, and are not candidates for effective therapeutic measures. Therefore, they are at high risk for hospital admission and mortality. This study evaluated the benefit of a comprehensive continuous care program (UMIPIC program) in patients with HFpEF. Methods We prospectively analyzed data on 2,401 patients with HFpEF attended to in internal medicine departments who form part of the RICA registry. They were divided into 2 groups: one was followed-up on in the UMIPIC program (UMIPIC group, n: 1,011) and another received conventional care (RICA group, n: 1,390). A total of 753 patients in each group were selected by propensity score matching and admissions and mortality were assessed during 12 months of follow-up after an episode of hospitalization due to HF. Results Compared to the RICA group, the UMIPIC group had a lower rate of HF admissions (19.2% versus 36.5%, respectively; hazard ratio [HR]=0.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45-0.68; p<.001) and mortality (12.6% versus 28%, respectively; HR=0.40; 95% CI: 0.31-0.51; p<.001). There were no differences in hospitalizations for non-HF causes. Conclusions Implementation of the UMIPIC program, which is based on comprehensive continuous care, for patients with HFpEF and a high degree of comorbidity reduces both admissions and mortality in the first year of follow-up (AU)

Prevalencia e impacto en el pronóstico del bloqueo de rama derecha en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca aguda: hallazgos del registro RICA / Prevalence and impact on prognosis of right-bundle branch block in patients with acute heart failure: Findings from the RICA registry

Objetivos: Determinar la prevalencia, las características y el impacto en el pronóstico del bloqueo de rama derecha (BRD) en una cohorte de pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca aguda (ICA). Métodos: Analizamos prospectivamente 3.638 pacientes con ICA incluidos en el Registro Nacional de Insuficiencia Cardíaca de la Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna (RICA). Analizamos de forma independiente la relación entre las características basales y clínicas y la presencia de BRD, y el impacto potencial del BRD en la mortalidad por todas las causas a un año y el evento combinado de hospitalización o muerte a 90 días después del alta. Resultados: La prevalencia de BRD fue del 10,9%. Los pacientes con BRD eran de edad más avanzada, con mayor proporción de sexo masculino y comorbilidades pulmonares, valores más altos de fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo y peor estado funcional. No hubo diferencias en riesgo para los pacientes con BRD, con un cociente de riesgo ajustado (intervalo de confianza del 95%) para la mortalidad a un año de 1,05 (0,83-1,32) y para el evento combinado a 90 días después del alta de 0,97 (0,74-1,25). Estos resultados fueron consistentes en los análisis de sensibilidad. Conclusiones: Pocos pacientes con ICA presentan BRD, que se asocia consistentemente con la edad avanzada, el sexo masculino, las comorbilidades pulmonares, la fracción de eyección del ventrículo izquierdo preservada y el peor estado funcional. Sin embargo, después de tener en cuenta estos factores, el BRD en pacientes con ICA no se asocia a peores resultados (AU)

Objectives: This work aims to determine the prevalence, characteristics, and impact on prognosis of right bundle branch block (RBBB) in a cohort of acute heart failure (AHF) patients. Methods: We prospectively analyzed 3,638 AHF patients included in the RICA registry (National Heart Failure Registry of the Spanish Internal Medicine Society). We independently analyzed the relationship between baseline and clinical characteristics and the presence of RBBB as well as the potential impact of RBBB on 1-year all-cause mortality and a composite endpoint of 90-day post-discharge hospitalization or death. Results: The prevalence of RBBB was 10.9%. Patients with RBBB were older, a higher proportion were male, had more pulmonary comorbidities, had higher left ventricular ejection fraction values, and had worse functional status. There were no differences in risk for patients with RBBB, with an adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) for 1-year mortality of 1.05 (0.83-1.32), and for the composite endpoint of 90-day post-discharge hospitalization or death of 0.97 (0.74-1.25). These results were consistent on the sensitivity analyses. Conclusions: Few patients with AHF present with RBBB, which is consistently associated with advanced age, male sex, pulmonary comorbidities, preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, and worse functional status. Nonetheless, after considering these factors, RBBB in AHF patients is not associated with worse outcomes (AU)

Consenso sobre el manejo de la hiperpotasemia en pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca: recomendaciones de la SEC-SEMI / Consensus on the management of hyperkalemia in patients with heart failure: recommendations from the SEC-SEMI

n los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) y fracción de eyección reducida, el uso de los inhibidores del sistema renina-angiotensina-aldosterona (iSRAA) se asocia con una mejoría funcional, incremento de la calidad de vida percibida, reducción de la probabilidad de muerte cardiovascular y disminución del número de hospitalizaciones. Algunos de esos fármacos también resultan eficaces en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica y albuminuria, así como en pacientes con hipertensión arterial resistente. A pesar de sus numerosos beneficios, los iSRAA se asocian a un incremento de la incidencia de hiperpotasemia, sobre todo en pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica concomitante. La hiperpotasemia es un trastorno iónico frecuente que se define como la elevación de las concentraciones plasmáticas de potasio por encima de 5 mEq/L, y se ha relacionado con la presencia de rehospitalizaciones, arritmias cardíacas malignas y aumento de la mortalidad. Por otro lado, un tratamiento optimizado con iSRAA requiere de incrementos progresivos de las dosis que pueden suponer a su vez una mayor probabilidad de hiperpotasemia. Por todo ello, es necesario establecer unas directrices para el manejo y tratamiento de estos pacientes. Con este objetivo surge este documento de consenso, cuyas recomendaciones han sido elaboradas por un grupo de 10 expertos y revisado por un panel de otros 10 especialistas en el tratamiento de pacientes con IC (en total 10 cardiólogos y 10 internistas). El documento ha sido avalado por la Sociedad Española de Cardiología (SEC) y la Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna (SEMI) (AU)

Use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi) in patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction is associated with functional improvement, an increase in perceived quality of life, a reduction in the probability of cardiovascular death, and a decrease in the number of hospitalizations. Some of these drugs are also efficacious in patients with chronic kidney disease and albuminuria as well as in patients with resistant hypertension. Despite their numerous benefits, RAASi are associated with an increase in incidence of hyperkalemia, especially in patients with concomitant chronic kidney disease. Hyperkalemia is a common electrolyte disorder that is defined as an elevation in plasma concentrations of potassium above 5 mEq/L. It has been related to rehospitalizations, malignant arrhythmias, and an increase in mortality. On the other hand, optimized treatment with RAASi requires progressive dose increases which can in turn entail a greater probability of hyperkalemia. For all of these reasons, it is necessary to establish management and treatment guidelines for these patients. This consensus document arises from this objective. Its recommendations have been developed by a group of ten experts and reviewed by a panel of another ten specialists in the treatment of patients with HF (ten cardiologists and ten internists in total). This document has been endorsed by the Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC, for its initials in Spanish) and the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI, for its initials in Spanish) (AU)

Prevalence and impact on prognosis of right-bundle branch block in patients with acute heart failure: Findings from the RICA registry.

OBJECTIVES: This work aims to determine the prevalence, characteristics, and impact on prognosis of right bundle branch block (RBBB) in a cohort of acute heart failure (AHF) patients. METHODS: We prospectively analyzed 3,638 AHF patients included in the RICA registry (National Heart Failure Registry of the Spanish Internal Medicine Society). We independently analyzed the relationship between baseline and clinical characteristics and the presence of RBBB as well as the potential impact of RBBB on 1-year all-cause mortality and a composite endpoint of 90-day post-discharge hospitalization or death. RESULTS: The prevalence of RBBB was 10.9%. Patients with RBBB were older, a higher proportion were male, had more pulmonary comorbidities, had higher left ventricular ejection fraction values, and had worse functional status. There were no differences in risk for patients with RBBB, with an adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) for 1-year mortality of 1.05 (0.83-1.32), and for the composite endpoint of 90-day post-discharge hospitalization or death of 0.97 (0.74-1.25). These results were consistent on the sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS: Few patients with AHF present with RBBB, which is consistently associated with advanced age, male sex, pulmonary comorbidities, preserved left ventricular ejection fraction, and worse functional status. Nonetheless, after considering these factors, RBBB in AHF patients is not associated with worse outcomes.

Benefits of a comprehensive care model in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction: The UMIPIC program.

BACKGROUND: Patients with heart failure (HF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), in contrast to those with reduced ejection fraction, are older, have more comorbidities, and are not candidates for effective therapeutic measures. Therefore, they are at high risk for hospital admission and mortality. This study evaluated the benefit of a comprehensive continuous care program (UMIPIC program) in patients with HFpEF. METHODS: We prospectively analyzed data on 2401 patients with HFpEF attended to in internal medicine departments who form part of the RICA registry. They were divided into 2 groups: one was followed-up on in the UMIPIC program (UMIPIC group, n: 1011) and another received conventional care (RICA group, n: 1390). A total of 753 patients in each group were selected by propensity score matching and admissions and mortality were assessed during 12 months of follow-up after an episode of hospitalization due to HF. RESULTS: Compared to the RICA group, the UMIPIC group had a lower rate of HF admissions (19.2% versus 36.5%, respectively; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45-0.68; p < 0.001) and mortality (12.6% versus 28%, respectively; HR = 0.40; 95% CI: 0.31-0.51; p < 0.001). There were no differences in hospitalizations for non-HF causes. CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of the UMIPIC program, which is based on comprehensive continuous care, for patients with HFpEF and a high degree of comorbidity reduces both admissions and mortality in the first year of follow-up.

Beneficios de un modelo asistencial integral en pacientes ancianos con insuficiencia cardíaca y elevada comorbilidad: programa UMIPIC / Morbidity and mortality in elderly patients with heart failure managed with a comprehensive care model vs. usual care: The UMIPIC program

Antecedentes: Los pacientes ancianos con insuficiencia cardíaca (IC) presentan una elevada comorbilidad que conlleva una atención fragmentada, con frecuentes hospitalizaciones y alta mortalidad. En este estudio se evaluó el beneficio de un modelo asistencial caracterizado por una atención integral y continuada (programa UMIPIC), en pacientes con IC de edad avanzada. Métodos y resultados: Se analizaron prospectivamente 2.862 pacientes con IC atendidos en servicios de Medicina Interna, procedentes del registro RICA. Se dividieron en 2 grupos: uno en seguimiento en el programa UMIPIC (grupo UMIPIC, n: 809) y otro atendido de forma convencional (grupo RICA, n: 2053). Se evaluaron los reingresos por IC durante 12 meses de seguimiento y la mortalidad total tras un episodio de hospitalización por IC. Los pacientes del grupo UMIPIC tuvieron más edad, comorbilidades y fracción de eyección preservada que los del grupo RICA. Sin embargo, el grupo UMIPIC tuvo una menor tasa de reingresos por IC (17 frente a 26%, p<0,001) y de mortalidad (16 frente a 27%, respectivamente, p<0,001). Se seleccionaron por emparejamiento (propensity score matching) 370 pacientes de cada grupo, manteniéndose las diferencias en reingresos por IC (15% UMIPIC frente a 30% RICA; hazard ratio [HR]=0,44; intervalo de confianza del 95%: 0,32-0,60; p<0,001) y mortalidad (17% UMIPIC frente a 28% RICA; hazard ratio=0,58; intervalo de confianza del 95%: 0,42-0,79; p=0,001). Conclusiones: La implantación del programa UMIPIC, basado en una atención integral y continuada a pacientes ancianos con IC y elevada comorbilidad, disminuye significativamente los reingresos por IC y la mortalidad total (AU)

Background: Elderly patients with heart failure (HF) have a high degree of comorbidity which leads to fragmented care, with frequent hospitalizations and high mortality. This study evaluated the benefit of a comprehensive continuous care model (UMIPIC program) in elderly HF patients. Methods and results: We prospectively analyzed data from the RICA registry on 2,862 patients with HF treated in internal medicine departments. They were divided into two groups: one monitored in the UMIPIC program (UMIPIC group, n: 809) and another which received conventional care (RICA group, n: 2.053). We evaluated HF readmissions during 12 months of follow-up and total mortality after episodes of HF hospitalization. UMIPIC patients were older with higher rates of comorbidity and preserved ejection fraction than the RICA group. However, the UMIPIC group had a lower rate of HF readmissions (17% vs. 26%, p<.001) and mortality (16% vs. 27%, respectively; p<.001). In addition, we selected 370 propensity score-matched patients from each group and the differences in HF readmissions (15% UMIPIC vs. 30% RICA; hazard ratio [HR]=0.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32-0.60; p<.001) and mortality (17% UMIPIC vs. 28% RICA; hazard ratio=0.58; 95% CI 0.42-0.79; p=.001) were maintained. Conclusions: The implementation of the UMIPIC program, based on comprehensive continuous care of elderly patients with HF and high comorbidity, markedly reduce HF readmissions and total mortality (AU)

Consensus on the management of hyperkalemia in patients with heart failure: Recommendations from the SEC-SEMI.

Use of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi) in patients with heart failure (HF) and reduced ejection fraction is associated with functional improvement, an increase in perceived quality of life, a reduction in the probability of cardiovascular death, and a decrease in the number of hospitalizations. Some of these drugs are also efficacious in patients with chronic kidney disease and albuminuria as well as in patients with resistant hypertension. Despite their numerous benefits, RAASi are associated with an increase in incidence of hyperkalemia, especially in patients with concomitant chronic kidney disease. Hyperkalemia is a common electrolyte disorder that is defined as an elevation in plasma concentrations of potassium above 5 mEq/L. It has been related to rehospitalizations, malignant arrhythmias, and an increase in mortality. On the other hand, optimized treatment with RAASi requires progressive dose increases which can in turn entail a greater probability of hyperkalemia. For all of these reasons, it is necessary to establish management and treatment guidelines for these patients. This consensus document arises from this objective. Its recommendations have been developed by a group of ten experts and reviewed by a panel of another ten specialists in the treatment of patients with HF (ten cardiologists and ten internists in total). This document has been endorsed by the Spanish Society of Cardiology (SEC, for its initials in Spanish) and the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI, for its initials in Spanish).

Morbidity and mortality in elderly patients with heart failure managed with a comprehensive care model vs. usual care: The UMIPIC program.

BACKGROUND: Elderly patients with heart failure (HF) have a high degree of comorbidity which leads to fragmented care, with frequent hospitalizations and high mortality. This study evaluated the benefit of a comprehensive continuous care model (UMIPIC program) in elderly HF patients. METHODS AND RESULTS: We prospectively analyzed data from the RICA registry on 2862 patients with HF treated in internal medicine departments. They were divided into two groups: one monitored in the UMIPIC program (UMIPIC group, n: 809) and another which received conventional care (RICA group, n: 2.053). We evaluated HF readmissions during 12 months of follow-up and total mortality after episodes of HF hospitalization. UMIPIC patients were older with higher rates of comorbidity and preserved ejection fraction than the RICA group. However, the UMIPIC group had a lower rate of HF readmissions (17% vs. 26%, p < .001) and mortality (16% vs. 27%, respectively; p < .001). In addition, we selected 370 propensity score-matched patients from each group and the differences in HF readmissions (15% UMIPIC vs. 30% RICA; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.32-0.60; p < .001) and mortality (17% UMIPIC vs. 28% RICA; hazard ratio = 0.58; 95% CI 0.42-0.79; p = .001) were maintained. CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of the UMIPIC program, based on comprehensive continuous care of elderly patients with HF and high comorbidity, markedly reduce HF readmissions and total mortality.

Consensus on basic conduct during the hospital admission of patients with acute heart failure.

Acute heart failure (AHF) is a highly prevalent clinical entity in individuals older than 45 years in Spain. AHF is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and is the leading cause of hospitalisation for individuals older than 65 years in Spain, a quarter of whom die within 1 year of the hospitalisation. In recent years, there has been an upwards trend in hospitalisations for AHF, which increased 76.7% from 2003 to 2013. Readmissions at 30 days for AHF have also increased (from 17.6% to 22.1%), at a relative mean rate of 1.36% per year, with the consequent increase in the use of resources and the economic burden for the healthcare system. The aim of this document (developed by the Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine) is to guide specialists on the most important aspects of treatment and follow-up for patients with AHF during hospitalisation and the subsequent follow-up. The main recommendations listed in this document are as follows: 1) At admission, perform a comprehensive assessment, considering the patient's standard treatment and comorbidities, given that these determine the disease prognosis to a considerable measure. 2) During the first few hours of hospital care, decongestive treatment is a priority, and a staged diuretic therapeutic approach based on the patient's response is recommended. 3) To manage patients in the stable phase, consider starting and/or adjusting evidence-based drug treatment (e.g., sacubitril/valsartan or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta blockers and aldosterone antagonists). 4) At hospital discharge, use a checklist to optimise the patient's management and identify the most efficient options for maintaining continuity of care after discharge.

Consenso de actuación básica durante el ingreso hospitalario por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda / Consensus on basic conduct during the hospital admission of patients with acute heart failure

La insuficiencia cardiaca aguda (ICA) es una entidad clínica con una elevada prevalencia en la población de más de 45años en España. Está asociada a una importante morbimortalidad, constituyendo la primera causa de hospitalización en mayores de 65años en nuestro país, de los cuales una cuarta parte fallecen al año del ingreso. En los últimos años se ha observado una tendencia al alza en las hospitalizaciones por ICA, que aumentaron un 76,7% en el período de 2003 a 2013. Los reingresos a los 30días por ICA también aumentaron (del 17,6 al 22,1%) a un ritmo medio relativo del 1,36% por año, con el consiguiente incremento en el uso de recursos y en la carga económica para el sistema sanitario. Este documento, elaborado por el grupo de Insuficiencia Cardiaca y Fibrilación Auricular de la Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna, tiene como objetivo orientar al especialista en los aspectos más importantes del tratamiento y seguimiento de los pacientes con ICA durante el ingreso y el seguimiento posterior. Las principales recomendaciones recogidas son: 1)en el momento del ingreso, realizar una evaluación integral, considerando el tratamiento habitual y comorbilidades del paciente, ya que condicionan en gran medida el pronóstico de la enfermedad; 2)en las primeras horas de atención hospitalaria, el tratamiento descongestivo es prioritario y se recomienda un abordaje terapéutico diurético escalonado en función de la respuesta; 3)en el manejo de la fase estable, considerar el inicio y/o ajustar el tratamiento con fármacos basados en la evidencia, es decir, sacubitrilo/valsartán o IECA/ARAII, betabloqueantes y antialdosterónicos; 4)en el momento del alta hospitalaria, utilizar un checklist para optimizar el manejo del paciente hospitalizado e identificar las opciones más eficientes para mantener la continuidad de cuidados tras el alta (AU)

Acute heart failure (AHF) is a highly prevalent clinical entity in individuals older than 45years in Spain. AHF is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and is the leading cause of hospitalisation for individuals older than 65years in Spain, a quarter of whom die within 1year of the hospitalisation. In recent years, there has been an upwards trend in hospitalisations for AHF, which increased 76.7% from 2003 to 2013. Readmissions at 30days for AHF have also increased (from 17.6% to 22.1%), at a relative mean rate of 1.36% per year, with the consequent increase in the use of resources and the economic burden for the healthcare system. The aim of this document (developed by the Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine) is to guide specialists on the most important aspects of treatment and follow-up for patients with AHF during hospitalisation and the subsequent follow-up. The main recommendations listed in this document are as follows: (1)At admission, perform a comprehensive assessment, considering the patient's standard treatment and comorbidities, given that these determine the disease prognosis to a considerable measure. (2)During the first few hours of hospital care, decongestive treatment is a priority, and a staged diuretic therapeutic approach based on the patient's response is recommended. (3)To manage patients in the stable phase, consider starting and/or adjusting evidence-based drug treatment (e.g., sacubitril/valsartan or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensinII receptor blockers, beta blockers and aldosterone antagonists). (4)At hospital discharge, use a checklist to optimise the patient's management and identify the most efficient options for maintaining continuity of care after discharge (AU)

Comorbilidad en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e insuficiencia cardíaca con fracción de eyección preservada. Análisis de clusters del registro RICA. Oportunidades de mejora / Comorbidity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Cluster analysis of the RICA registry. Opportunities for improvement

ANTECEDENTES Y OBJETIVOS: La heterogeneidad de los pacientes con insuficiencia cardíaca y fracción de eyección preservada (ICFEP) es elevada, por lo que se tiende a agrupar en fenotipos para intervenir con precisión. Dentro de estos, los pacientes con diabetes mellitus (DM) mantienen esta heterogeneidad. Nuestro objetivo es describir grupos de pacientes con ICFEP y DM basados en otras comorbilidades. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Los pacientes se reclutan desde el registro nacional de insuficiencia cardíaca (RICA). Se incluyen pacientes con fracción de eyección mayor o igual al 50% sin valvulopatía y con DM. Se realiza un análisis aglomerativo jerárquico con el método de Ward incluyendo las siguientes variables: dislipemia, hepatopatía, EPOC, demencia, enfermedad cerebrovascular, arritmia, presión arterial sistólica, índice de masa corporal (IMC), estimación del filtrado glomerular y hemoglobina. RESULTADOS: Se incluyen 1.934 pacientes con ICFEP, de los que 907 (46,9%) tenían DM, con predominio de mujeres (60,9%) y con un IMC de 31,1 (5,9) kg/m2. Se obtienen 4 grupos: dos con elevado riesgo vascular (uno con arritmia y otro no), con 263 pacientes el primero y 201 el segundo, otro con predominio de EPOC (140 pacientes) y un último grupo de 303 pacientes con más edad pero menos comorbilidad. CONCLUSIONES: En nuestros pacientes con ICFEP y DM predomina la obesidad y el sexo femenino. Los cuatro grupos ofrecen oportunidades de tratamiento para mejorar su pronóstico no solo basadas en la utilización de nuevos fármacos antidiabéticos sino por otras opciones que pueden suponer un punto de partida para nuevas investigaciones

AIM: The heterogeneity of patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is high, thusthis entity tends to be grouped into phenotypes to act with precision. Within these groups, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) hold this heterogeneity. Our aim is to describe subgroups of patients with HFpEF and T2DM based on other comorbidities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients were recruited from the national registry of heart failure (RCIA). Patients with ejection fraction greater than or equal to 50% without valvular disease and with T2DM were included. A hierarchical agglomerative analysis was performed with Ward's method including the following variables: dyslipidemia, liver disease, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), dementia, cerebrovascular disease, arrhythmia, systolic blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), estimation of glomerular filtration and hemoglobin. RESULTS: 1934 patients with ICFEP were included, of which 907 (46.9%) had T2DM with a predominance of women (60.9%) and with a BMI of 31.1 (5.9) Kg / m2. Four groups were obtained, two with high vascular risk (one with arrhythmia and the other without it) with 263 patients the first and 201 the second. A third group had a predominance of COPD (140 patients) and a last group with 303 patients older but with less comorbidity. CONCLUSIONS: In our patients with ICFEP and T2DM, obesity and female sex predominated. All four groups offered treatment chances to improve their prognosis not only based on the use of new antidiabetic drugs but also on other options that may be a starting point for further research

El reto del seguimiento del paciente con insuficiencia cardiaca tras el alta, ¿son necesarios programas de gestión específicos? / The challenge of following up patients with heart failure after discharge. Are specific management programmes needed?

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Consensus on basic conduct during the hospital admission of patients with acute heart failure. / Consenso de actuación básica durante el ingreso hospitalario por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda.

Acute heart failure (AHF) is a highly prevalent clinical entity in individuals older than 45years in Spain. AHF is associated with significant morbidity and mortality and is the leading cause of hospitalisation for individuals older than 65years in Spain, a quarter of whom die within 1year of the hospitalisation. In recent years, there has been an upwards trend in hospitalisations for AHF, which increased 76.7% from 2003 to 2013. Readmissions at 30days for AHF have also increased (from 17.6% to 22.1%), at a relative mean rate of 1.36% per year, with the consequent increase in the use of resources and the economic burden for the healthcare system. The aim of this document (developed by the Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation Group of the Spanish Society of Internal Medicine) is to guide specialists on the most important aspects of treatment and follow-up for patients with AHF during hospitalisation and the subsequent follow-up. The main recommendations listed in this document are as follows: (1)At admission, perform a comprehensive assessment, considering the patient's standard treatment and comorbidities, given that these determine the disease prognosis to a considerable measure. (2)During the first few hours of hospital care, decongestive treatment is a priority, and a staged diuretic therapeutic approach based on the patient's response is recommended. (3)To manage patients in the stable phase, consider starting and/or adjusting evidence-based drug treatment (e.g., sacubitril/valsartan or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensinII receptor blockers, beta blockers and aldosterone antagonists). (4)At hospital discharge, use a checklist to optimise the patient's management and identify the most efficient options for maintaining continuity of care after discharge.

Comorbidity in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Cluster analysis of the RICA registry. Opportunities for improvement. / Comorbilidad en pacientes con diabetes mellitus tipo 2 e insuficiencia cardíaca con fracción de eyección preservada. Análisis de clusters del registro RICA. Oportunidades de mejora.

AIM: The heterogeneity of patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is high, thusthis entity tends to be grouped into phenotypes to act with precision. Within these groups, patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) hold this heterogeneity. Our aim is to describe subgroups of patients with HFpEF and T2DM based on other comorbidities. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Patients were recruited from the national registry of heart failure (RCIA). Patients with ejection fraction greater than or equal to 50% without valvular disease and with T2DM were included. A hierarchical agglomerative analysis was performed with Ward's method including the following variables: dyslipidemia, liver disease, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), dementia, cerebrovascular disease, arrhythmia, systolic blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), estimation of glomerular filtration and hemoglobin. RESULTS: 1934 patients with ICFEP were included, of which 907 (46.9%) had T2DM with a predominance of women (60.9%) and with a BMI of 31.1 (5.9) Kg / m2. Four groups were obtained, two with high vascular risk (one with arrhythmia and the other without it) with 263 patients the first and 201 the second. A third group had a predominance of COPD (140 patients) and a last group with 303 patients older but with less comorbidity. CONCLUSIONS: In our patients with ICFEP and T2DM, obesity and female sex predominated. All four groups offered treatment chances to improve their prognosis not only based on the use of new antidiabetic drugs but also on other options that may be a starting point for further research.

Inicio, mantenimiento y retirada del tratamiento modificador de la enfermedad durante una descompensación por insuficiencia cardiaca aguda / Initiation, maintenance and withdrawal of disease-modifying treatment during an acute heart failure decompensation

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