New categorization of chest pain: noncardiac is in, atypical is out!

Chest pain poses a diagnostic challenge in the emergency department and requires a thorough clinical assessment. The traditional distinction between "atypical" and "typical" chest pain carries the risk of not addressing nonischemic clinical pictures. The newly conceived subdivision into cardiac, possibly cardiac, and (probably) noncardiac causes of the presenting symptom complex addresses a much more interdisciplinary approach to a symptom-oriented diagnostic algorithm. The diagnostic structures of the chest pain units in Germany do not currently reflect this. An adaptation should therefore be considered.

Análisis individualizado por sexo de los factores asociados a la clasificación inicial errónea en urgencias del dolor torácico como no coronario / Factors associated with erroneous emergency department noncardiac chest pain classifications in men and women

Introducción. Analizar de forma independiente en mujeres y hombres la frecuencia y las características clínicas asociadas a una clasificación inicial errónea (CIE) en urgencias del dolor torácico (DT) como no coronario. Método. Se analizan todas las consultas por DT atendidas en urgencias entre 2008 y 2017 clasificadas inicialmente (historia clínica y ECG) como DT no coronario. Se consideró como CIE si el diagnóstico final fue síndrome coronario agudo (SCA). Se crearon dos modelos multivariable, uno con 10 factores de riesgo, y otro con 10 características clínicas del DT, en los que se investigó la asociación de estas variables con una CIE. Se analizaron independientemente mujeres y hombres. Resultados. Se analizaron 8.093 mujeres con DT clasificado inicialmente como no coronario (edad mediana: 54 años, RIC: 38-73), 72 con CIE (0,9%). Los factores de riesgo asociados independientemente a CIE fueron obesidad (OR = 0,40; IC 95% = 0,17-0,97) y consumo de cocaína (5,18; 1,16-23,2), y las características clínicas fueron relación con el esfuerzo (2,01; 1,21-3,33), existencia de irradiación (2,05; 1,23-3,41) y síntomas vegetativos acompañantes (1,86; 1,02-3,41). Se analizaron 9.979 hombres (edad mediana: 47 años, RIC: 33-64), 83 con CIE (0,8%). Los factores de riesgo asociados a CIE fueron edad > 40 años (1,74; 1,04-2,91) e hipertensión (0,45; 0,24-0,84). No hubo características clínicas del DT asociadas a CIE. Conclusión. En las mujeres con dolor torácico, se identifican más características asociadas al error de clasificación que en los hombres. Este estudio remarca la necesidad de análisis independiente por sexo en el SCA, en el que clásica- mente se ha considerado la clínica en las mujeres como atípica. (AU)

Objective. To analyze the frequency and clinical characteristics associated with erroneous initial classifications of noncardiac chest pain (NCP) in men and women. Methods. We analyzed all case records in which chest pain was initially classified as noncardiac in origin according to clinical signs and electrocardiograms evaluated in our emergency department between 2008 and 2017. We considered the initial evaluation of NCP to be in error if the final diagnosis was acute coronary syndrome. A risk model for an erroneous initial classification of NCP was developed based on multivariable analysis of our patient data. We also used multivariable analysis to explore associations between 10 clinical signs of chest pain and an erroneous initial NCP classification. The data for men and women were analyzed separately. Results. NCP was the initial classification for 8093 women; their median (interquartile range) age was 54 (38-73) years. The classification was in error for 72 women (0.9%). Odds ratios (ORs) showed that patient risk factors associated with an erroneous NCP classification in the women in our series were obesity (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.17- 0.97) and cocaine consumption (OR, 5.18; 95% CI, 1.16-23.2). Clinical risk factors associated with erroneous NCP classification in women were recent physical exertion (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.21-3.33), radiation exposure (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.23-3.41), and vegetative symptoms (OR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.02-3.41). For 9979 men with a median age of 47 (33-64) years, NCP was the initial classification; in 83 of the men (0.8%) the classification was erroneous. Patient factors associated with erroneous NCP classification in men were age over 40 years (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.04-2.91) and hypertension (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24-0.84). No clinical signs of chest pain in men were associated with error. Conclusions. More clinical characteristics are associated with an erroneous classification of NCP in women. [...] (AU)

Factors associated with erroneous emergency department noncardiac chest pain classifications in men and women. / Análisis individualizado por sexo de los factores asociados a la clasificación inicial errónea en urgencias del dolor torácico como no coronario.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the frequency and clinical characteristics associated with erroneous initial classifications of noncardiac chest pain (NCP) in men and women. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We analyzed all case records in which chest pain was initially classified as noncardiac in origin according to clinical signs and electrocardiograms evaluated in our emergency department between 2008 and 2017. We considered the initial evaluation of NCP to be in error if the final diagnosis was acute coronary syndrome. A risk model for an erroneous initial classification of NCP was developed based on multivariable analysis of our patient data. We also used multivariable analysis to explore associations between 10 clinical signs of chest pain and an erroneous initial NCP classification. The data for men and women were analyzed separately. RESULTS: NCP was the initial classification for 8093 women; their median (interquartile range) age was 54 (38-73) years. The classification was in error for 72 women (0.9%). Odds ratios (ORs) showed that patient risk factors associated with an erroneous NCP classification in the women in our series were obesity (OR, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.17- 0.97) and cocaine consumption (OR, 5.18; 95% CI, 1.16-23.2). Clinical risk factors associated with erroneous NCP classification in women were recent physical exertion (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.21-3.33), radiation exposure (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.23-3.41), and vegetative symptoms (OR, 1.86; 95% CI, 1.02-3.41). For 9979 men with a median age of 47 (33-64) years, NCP was the initial classification; in 83 of the men (0.8%) the classification was erroneous. Patient factors associated with erroneous NCP classification in men were age over 40 years (OR, 1.74; 95% CI, 1.04-2.91) and hypertension (OR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.24-0.84). No clinical signs of chest pain in men were associated with error. CONCLUSION: More clinical characteristics are associated with an erroneous classification of NCP in women. Our findings underline the need to assess the possibility of acute coronary syndrome differently in women, in whom the signs have usually been considered to be atypical.

OBJETIVO: Analizar de forma independiente en mujeres y hombres la frecuencia y las características clínicas asociadas a una clasificación inicial errónea (CIE) en urgencias del dolor torácico (DT) como no coronario. METODO: Se analizan todas las consultas por DT atendidas en urgencias entre 2008 y 2017 clasificadas inicialmente (historia clínica y ECG) como DT no coronario. Se consideró como CIE si el diagnóstico final fue síndrome coronario agudo (SCA). Se crearon dos modelos multivariable, uno con 10 factores de riesgo, y otro con 10 características clínicas del DT, en los que se investigó la asociación de estas variables con una CIE. Se analizaron independientemente mujeres y hombres. RESULTADOS: Se analizaron 8.093 mujeres con DT clasificado inicialmente como no coronario (edad mediana: 54 años, RIC: 38-73), 72 con CIE (0,9%). Los factores de riesgo asociados independientemente a CIE fueron obesidad (OR = 0,40; IC 95% = 0,17-0,97) y consumo de cocaína (5,18; 1,16-23,2), y las características clínicas fueron relación con el esfuerzo (2,01; 1,21-3,33), existencia de irradiación (2,05; 1,23-3,41) y síntomas vegetativos acompañantes (1,86; 1,02-3,41). Se analizaron 9.979 hombres (edad mediana: 47 años, RIC: 33-64), 83 con CIE (0,8%). Los factores de riesgo asociados a CIE fueron edad > 40 años (1,74; 1,04-2,91) e hipertensión (0,45; 0,24-0,84). No hubo características clínicas del DT asociadas a CIE. CONCLUSIONES: En las mujeres con dolor torácico, se idenfitican más características asociadas al error de clasificación que en los hombres. Este estudio remarca la necesidad de análisis independiente por sexo en el SCA, en el que clásicamente se ha considerado la clínica en las mujeres como atípica.

Unexpected high level of severe events even in low-risk profile chest pain unit patients.

AIMS: Early heart attack awareness programs are thought to increase efficacy of chest pain units (CPU) by providing live-saving information to the community. We hypothesized that self-referral might be a feasible alternative to activation of emergency medical services (EMS) in selected chest pain patients with a specific low-risk profile. METHODS AND RESULTS: In this observational registry-based study, data from 4743 CPU patients were analyzed for differences between those with or without severe or fatal prehospital or in-unit events (out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and/or in-unit death, resuscitation or ventricular tachycardia). In order to identify a low-risk subset in which early self-referral might be recommended to reduce prehospital critical time intervals, the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score for in-hospital mortality and a specific low-risk CPU score developed from the data by multivariate regression analysis were applied and corresponding event rates were calculated. Male gender, cardiac symptoms other than chest pain, first onset of symptoms and a history of myocardial infarction, heart failure or cardioverter defibrillator implantation increased propensity for critical events. Event rates within the low-risk subsets varied from 0.5-2.8%. Those patients with preinfarction angina experienced fewer events. CONCLUSIONS: When educating patients and the general population about angina pectoris symptoms and early admission, activation of EMS remains recommended. Even in patients without any CPU-specific risk factor, self-referral bears the risk of severe or fatal pre- or in-unit events of 0.6%. However, admission should not be delayed, and self-referral might be feasible in patients with previous symptoms of preinfarction angina.

Medical history of coronary artery disease and time to electrocardiogram in the emergency department: a real-life, single-center, retrospective analysis.

BACKGROUND: Timely acquisition of 12-lead Electrocardiogram (ECG) in the emergency department (ED) is crucial and recommended by current guidelines. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the association of medical history of coronary artery disease (hCAD) on door-to-ECG time in the ED. METHODS: In this single center, retrospective cohort study, patients admitted to ED for cardiac evaluation were grouped according to hCAD and no hCAD. The primary outcome was door-to-ECG time. A multivariate analysis adjusted for the cofounders sex, age, type of referral and shift was performed to evaluate the association of hCAD with door-to-ECG time. RESULTS: 1101 patients were included in this analysis. 362 patients (33%) had hCAD. Patients with hCAD had shorter door-to-ECG time (20 min. [Inter Quartile Range [IQR] 13-30] vs. 22 min. [IQR 14-37]; p < 0.001) when compared to patients with no hCAD. In a multivariable regression analysis hCAD was significantly associated with a shorter door-to-ECG time (- 3 min [p = 0.007; 95% confidence Interval [CI] - 5.16 to - 0.84 min]). CONCLUSION: In this single center registry, hCAD was associated with shorter door-to-ECG time. In patients presenting in ED for cardiac evaluation, timely ECG diagnostic should be facilitated irrespective of hCAD.

Predictores de demora en el intervencionismo coronario percutáneo primario en el infarto de miocardio diagnosticado en hospitales sin hemodinámica / Time from electrocardiographic diagnosis of ST-elevation myocardial infarction to guidewire crossing in patients transferred to a hospital for primary angioplasty: factors associated with delay

Objetivos: Identificar variables predictoras del retraso hasta la angioplastia primaria, en los pacientes con infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del ST (IAMEST) trasladados desde el medio extrahospitalario o desde hospitales sin hemodinámica. Método: Estudio de cohortes, retrospectivo, realizado entre 2008 y 2018 en un hospital universitario receptor de pacientes con diagnóstico de IAMEST y que requirieron angioplastia primaria. Se realizó un análisis multivariable de regresión logística y lineal para identificar variables predictoras de demora de tiempo de electrocardiograma (ECG) diagnóstico hasta el paso de guía. Resultados: Se incluyeron 1.039 pacientes en el estudio. Doscientos noventa y seis pacientes (28,4%) presentaban tiempos ECG diagnóstico-paso de guía > 120 minutos. Las variables asociadas a tiempos prolongados de angioplastia primaria fueron la edad avanzada [odds ratio (OR) = 1,02; IC 95%: 1,01-1,04] la insuficiencia cardiaca grave al ingreso (OR = 2,28; IC 95%: 1,23-4,22), la cirugía cardiaca previa de bypass (OR = 10,01; IC 95%: 2,60-41,81), la muerte súbita extrahospitalaria recuperada (OR = 4,34; IC 95%: 1,84-10,32), la localización lateral del infarto (OR = 1,64; IC 95%: 1,06-2,51), el primer contacto con hospital sin disponibilidad de hemodinámica (OR = 1,52; IC 95%: 1,05- 2,21), la atención fuera de horas (OR = 1,46; IC 95%: 1,06-2,02) y finalmente la distancia en kilómetros al centro con hemodinámica (OR = 1,04; IC 95%: 1,03-1,05). Conclusiones: En los pacientes con IAMEST que requirieron traslado a un centro con hemodinámica, la demora en la realización de la angioplastia primaria se relacionó con factores clínicos, con características del infarto y logísticas. (AU)

Objective: To identify predictors of primary angioplasty delay in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) transported from out-of-hospital sites or from hospitals without percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) suites. Methods: Retrospective cohort study of cases between 2008 and 2018 in a university hospital receiving patients diagnosed with STEMI who required a PCI. We performed linear and multivariate regression analyses to identify factors that predicted delay in interpreting a diagnostic electrocardiogram (ECG) until the guidewire passed the lesion (diagnosis–guidewire-crossing time). Results: A total of 1039 cases were studied; 296 patients (28.4%) had delays of more than 120 minutes between STEMI diagnosis and guidewire crossing. Factors associated with PCI delay were advanced age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.02; 95% CI, 1.01–1.04]), severe heart failure on admission (OR = 2.28; 95% CI, 1.23–4.22), history of cardiac bypass surgery (OR = 10.01; 95% CI, 2.60–41.81), out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OR = 4.34; 95% CI, 1.84–10.32), lateral ischemia (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.06–2.51), first medical attention in a hospital without a PCI suite (OR = 1.52; 95% CI, 1.05–2.21), first medical attention outside regular working hours (OR = 1.46; 95% CI, 1.06–2.02), and distance in kilometers to a PCI suite (OR = 1.04; 95% CI, 1.03–1.05). Conclusions: Patients with STEMI who required transport to a hospital with a PCI suite experienced primary angioplasty delays. Delays were related to logistical and clinical factors as well as to infarction characteristics. (AU)

Predictors of primary percutaneous coronary intervention delay in cases of myocardial infarction diagnosed in hospitals without hemodynamic support systems / Predictores de demora en el intervencionismo coronario percutáneo primario en el infarto de miocardio diagnosticado en hospitales sin hemodinámica.

OBJECTIVES: The need for primary percutaneous coronary intervention in hospitals without hemodynamic support capability is associated with delays between first medical contact (FMC) and reperfusion. It is important to identify factors involved in delays, particularly if they are relevant to the organization of emergency services. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Analysis of a registry of patients treated in hospitals without advanced hemodynamic support systems in a catchment area with an established care network for acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The registry included care times. RESULTS: The network served 2542 patients with a mean (SD) age of 63 (13) years. FMC-to-reperfusion time was within 120 minutes in 42% of the cases. Nine of the hospitals had a chest-pain unit in the emergency department, and this factor was an independent predictor of FMC-to-reperfusion times of 120 minutes or less (odds ratio, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.54­0.77; P < .0001); the time was shortened by 11 minutes in such hospitals. FMC-to-reperfusion was delayed beyond 120 minutes in relation to the following factors: shock and need for intubation at start of care, age, gender, FMC at night, left bundle branch block, and Killip class. One-month and 1-year mortality rates increased in hospitals without hemodynamic support systems in proportion to reperfusion delay, by 1.7% and 3.5% if the delay was 106 minutes or less and by 7.3% and 12.4% if the delay was 176 minutes or longer (P < .0001). CONCLUSION: FMC-to-reperfusion time in STEMI exceeds recommendations in 58% of the hospitals without hemodynamic support systems and delay is inversely proportional to the availability of an emergency department chest pain unit. One-month and 1-year mortality is proportional to the degree of delay.

OBJETIVO: La indicación de intervencionismo coronario percutáneo primario (ICPP) en hospitales sin hemodinámica (HSH) se asocia con tiempos primera asistencia-apertura de la arteria (TPA) prolongados. Es pertinente identificar los factores implicados, especialmente aquellos relacionados con la organización de los servicios de urgencias. METODO: Análisis de un registro de pacientes atendidos en HSH en una región sanitaria con una red asistencial para infarto agudo de miocardio con elevación del segmento ST (IAMEST) establecida y de sus tiempos de actuación. RESULTADOS: En 2.542 pacientes, de edad 63 ± 13 años, se alcanzó un TPA 120 minutos en un 42% de casos. En 9 de los 16 HSH analizados existía un box de dolor torácico en el área de urgencias, que se comportó como factor predictor independiente de un TPA 120 minutos [OR 0,64 (IC 95% 0,54-0,77), p 0,001], con una reducción de 11 minutos de este. Se asociaron de forma independiente con un TPA superior a 120 minutos la intubación y shock durante la primera asistencia, edad, sexo, atención en horario nocturno, bloqueo de rama izquierda y la clase Killip. La mortalidad al mes y al año aumentó en los HSH proporcionalmente al TPA (1,7% y 3,5% si TPA 106 minutos y del 7,3% y 12,4% si TPA 176 minutos, p 0,001). CONCLUSIONES: El TPA alcanzado en activaciones procedentes de HSH supera las recomendaciones en el 58% de casos y se relaciona inversamente con la disponibilidad de un box de dolor torácico en urgencias. La mortalidad al mes y al año es proporcional al grado de retraso en la reperfusión.

Management of Pulmonary Embolism: Results from the German Chest Pain Unit Registry.

INTRODUCTION: Since 2008, specialized chest pain units (CPUs) were implemented across Germany ensuring structured diagnostics in acute chest pain. This study aims to analyze the management of pulmonary embolism (PE) patients in such certified CPUs. METHODS: Data were retrieved from 13,902 patients enrolled in the German CPU registry and analyzed for the diagnosis of PE including patient characteristics, critical time intervals, diagnostic workup, treatment, and prognosis. PE patients were compared to the overall CPU patient cohort. Only patients with a complete 3-month follow-up were included. RESULTS: Overall, 1.1% of all CPU patients were diagnosed with PE. Chest pain and dyspnea were the leading symptoms. Patients with PE were older, presented with higher heart rates, and more frequently exhibited signs of heart failure, despite a normal left ventricular function. PE patients showed significantly longer time delays between symptom onset and the first medical contact, while PE patients with chest pain presented earlier than PE patients with dyspnea only. Whereas more PE patients had to be transferred to the intensive care unit, in-CPU mortality and event rates over 3 months were low. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: This study suggests a certain risk for underdiagnosis and consecutive potential undertreatment of PE patients in German Cardiac Society (GCS)-certified CPUs, which is thought to result from an anticipated focus on patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Public awareness for PE beyond chest pain should be improved. Certified CPUs should be urged to implement strategic pathways for a better simultaneous diagnostic workup of differential diagnosis beyond ACS.

Comparison of two strategies in a chest pain unit: stress echocardiography and multidetector computed tomography.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare stress echocardiography (SE) and multidetector computed tomography (MCT) in patients admitted to a chest pain unit to detect acute coronary syndrome (ACS). METHODS: A total of 203 patients with ≥ 1 cardiovascular risk factor, no ischemic electrocardiogram changes and negative biomarkers were randomized to SE (n=103) or MTC (n=100). The primary endpoint was a combination of hard events (death and nonfatal myocardial infarction), revascularizations, and readmissions during follow-up. The secondary endpoint was the cost of the 2 strategies. RESULTS: Invasive angiography was performed in 61 patients (34 [33%] in the SE group and in 27 [27%] in the MCT group, P=.15). A final diagnosis of ACS was made in 53 patients (88% vs 85%, P=.35). There were no significant differences between groups in the primary endpoint (42% vs 41%, P=.91), or in hard events (5% vs 7%, P=.42). There were no significant differences in overall cost, but costs were lower in patients with negative SE than in those with negative MCT (€557 vs €706, P <.02). CONCLUSIONS: No significant differences were found in efficacy and safety for the stratification of patients with a low to moderate probability of ACS admitted to a chest pain unit. The cost of the 2 strategies was similar, but cost was significantly lower for SE on comparison of negative studies.

Gender Differences in Patients Admitted to a Certified German Chest Pain Unit: Results from the German Chest Pain Unit Registry.

INTRODUCTION: Gender-specific atypical clinical presentation in acute coronary syndrome and sex-specific outcomes in cardiovascular disease in women are well known. The aim of this study is to analyze possible differences between men and women presenting to certified German chest pain units (CPUs). METHODS: Data from 13,900 patients derived from the German CPU registry were analyzed for gender differences in patient characteristics, cardiovascular disease manifestation, critical time intervals, treatment and prognosis. RESULTS: A total of 37.8% of patients were female. Typical chest pain occurred more frequently in men, while atypical symptoms occurred more frequently in women. Female gender was associated with longer pre- and in-hospital time delays. Women were more often diagnosed with a nonischemic origin of pain. In a 3-month follow-up, there was no gender-specific difference in combined major adverse coronary and cerebrovascular events. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: This study points out gender-specific differences in prehospital time intervals and a significantly higher percentage of atypical symptoms in suspected myocardial ischemia as well as more noncoronary diagnoses in women. Symptom awareness and a broader diagnostic workup in women are essential.

Capacity changes in German certified chest pain units during COVID-19 outbreak response.

BACKGROUND: We sought to determine structure and changes in organisation and bed capacities of certified German chest pain units (CPU) in response to the emergency plan set-up as a response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. METHODS AND RESULTS: The study was conducted in the form of a standardised telephone interview survey in certified German CPUs. Analyses comprised the overall setting of the CPU, bed capacities, possibilities for ventilation, possible changes in organisation and resources, chest pain patient admittance, overall availability of CPUs and bail-out strategies. The response rate was 91%. Nationwide, CPU bed capacities decreased by 3% in the early phase of COVID-19 pandemic response, exhibiting differences within and between the federal states. Pre-pandemic and pandemic bed capacities stayed below 1 CPU bed per 50,000 inhabitants. 97% of CPUs were affected by internal reorganisation pandemic plans at variable extent. While we observed a decrease of CPU beds within an emergency room (ER) set-up and on intermediate care units (ICU), beds in units being separated from ER and ICU were even increased in numbers. CONCLUSIONS: Certified German CPUs are able to maintain adequate coverage for chest pain patients in COVID-19 pandemic despite structural changes. However, at this time, it appears important to add operating procedures during pandemic outbreaks to the certification criteria of forthcoming guidelines either at the individual CPU level or more centrally steered by the German Cardiac Society or the European Society of Cardiology.

External validation of an emergency department triage algorithm for chest pain patients.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to externally validate an emergency department triage algorithm including five hierarchical clinical variables developed to identify chest pain patients at low risk of having an acute coronary syndrome justifying delayed rather than immediate evaluation. METHODS: In a single-centre cohort enrolling 29,269 consecutive patients presenting with chest pain, the performance of the algorithm was compared against the emergency department discharge diagnosis. In an international multicentre study enrolling 4069 patients, central adjudication by two independent cardiologists using all data derived from cardiac work-up including follow-up served as the reference. Triage towards 'low-risk' required absence of all five clinical 'high-risk' variables: history of coronary artery disease, diabetes, pressure-like chest pain, retrosternal chest pain and age above 40 years. Safety (sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV)) and efficacy (percentage of patients classified as low risk) was tested in this initial proposal (Model A) and in two additional models: omitting age criteria (Model B) and allowing up to one (any) of the five high-risk variables (Model C). RESULTS: The prevalence of acute coronary syndrome was 9.4% in the single-centre and 28.4% in the multicentre study. The triage algorithm had very high sensitivity/NPV in both cohorts (99.4%/99.1% and 99.9%/99.1%, respectively), but very low efficacy (6.2% and 2.7%, respectively). Model B resulted in sensitivity/NPV of 97.5%/98.3% and 96.1%/89.4%, while efficacy increased to 14.2% and 10.4%, respectively. Model C resulted in sensitivity/NPV of 96.7%/98.6% and 95.2%/91.3%, with a further increase in efficacy to 23.1% and 15.5%, respectively. CONCLUSION: A triage algorithm for the identification of low-risk chest pain patients exclusively based on simple clinical variables provided reasonable performance characteristics possibly justifying delayed rather than immediate evaluation in the emergency department.

The efficacy and safety of evaluating elderly patients using a comprehensive diagnostic protocol via a chest pain unit.

Elderly patients are often excluded from a chest pain unit (CPU)-based evaluation of chest pain due to concern about adverse events and poorer outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of thoroughly evaluating elderly patients ≥ 65 years of age presented with acute chest pain via a CPU. We evaluated 1220 consecutive patients admitted to our CPU, and stratified them according to age: those over and those under 65 years. Patients were evaluated for outcomes during hospitalization and for a composite endpoint at 60 days post discharge which included: recurrent hospitalization due to chest pain, need for coronary revascularization, acute coronary syndrome, and death. Overall, 241 (20%) patients were in the ≥ 65-year-old group and 979 (80%) patients in the group < 65 years of age. Older patients were more likely to be female, have more co-morbidities, and a history of prior coronary artery disease. There was no difference between the two groups regarding in-hospital course, including hospitalization in the CPU (9.5% vs. 11.6%, p = 0.37), coronary angiography (7.9% vs. 9.8%, p = 0.37), and revascularization performed during the evaluation period (4.5% vs. 3.3%, p = 0.42). Of those discharged, the primary endpoint at 60 days was observed in 11 (1.5%) and 7 (3.9%) patients in those under and over 65 years, respectively, (p = 0.13). No mortalities were recorded. Comprehensive evaluation via a CPU of patients who are ≥ 65 years of age is feasible and safe with in-hospital and short-term outcomes compared to their younger counterparts.

Nontraumatic chest pain and suspicion of acute coronary syndrome: associated clinical and electrocardiographic findings on initial evaluation. / Asociación entre los datos clínicos y electrocardiográficos iniciales en pacientes con dolor torácico no traumático y la sospecha inicial y el diagnóstico final de síndrome coronario agudo.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze clinical data and electrocardiographic (ECG) findings obtained during the initial evaluation of patients with nontraumatic chest pain (NTCP). To explore associations between these findings and the initial and final diagnoses of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). To assess which variables initially over- or underestimate risk ACS. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Consecutive patients with NTCP attended in a chest pain unit during the 10-year period of 2008-2017 were included if the suspected and discharge diagnoses of interest (ACS or non-ACS) had been recorded. Thirtythree independent variables (demographic, 2; cardiovascular, 5; chest pain, 22; ECG, 4). We included all variables in models to calculate crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) between each independent variable and the initial and final diagnoses. The adjusted ORs were compared to determine whether the initial and final diagnoses of ACS differed significantly in relation to the variables. RESULTS: A total of 34 552 patient visits were attended. The ORs for the 33 variables were significantly associated with initial and final NTCP classification as ACS or non-ACS, and in many cases the association was confirmed by the adjusted ORs. The adjusted ORs for 19 variables were significantly different in their relation to the initial and final diagnoses of ACS: 10 overpredicted the probability of the diagnosis and 9 underpredicted it. CONCLUSION: The variables traditionally used to warn of ACS in emergency patients with NTCP identify individuals likely to be initially and finally diagnosed with ACS. However, some of these variables overestimate or underestimate the risk of a final ACS diagnosis. Emergency medicine physicians should be aware of variables associated with underestimation of risk.

OBJETIVO: Evaluar la utilidad del cuestionario COPD Asessment Test (CAT) para valorar la recuperación de la exacerbación de la enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica (EA-EPOC). Evaluar si la puntuación CAT aumenta la capacidad predictiva de mala evolución de una escala de gravedad para EA-EPOC. METODO: Se incluyeron las consultas consecutivas por DTNT en una unidad de dolor torácico durante 10 años (2008-2017) en las que se disponía de los diagnósticos inicial de sospecha (SCA/no SCA) y final de alta de urgencias (SCA/no SCA). Se incluyeron 33 variables independientes (2 demográficas, 5 comorbilidad cardiovascular, 22 dolor torácico, 4 datos ECG). Se calcularon las odds ratio (OR) para la clasificación (inicial y final) como SCA para cada variable independiente, crudas y ajustadas en modelos globales que incluían todas ellas. En estos modelos ajustados se comparó si las OR para la clasificación inicial y final como SCA eran significativamente diferentes. RESULTADOS: Se incluyeron 34.552 visitas. Las 33 variables analizadas mostraron asociación significativa para la clasificación inicial y final del DTNT como SCA, y en muchos casos esta asociación se mantuvo en el modelo ajustado. Diecinueve variables mostraron OR significativamente diferentes para la sospecha inicial de SCA que para el diagnóstico final de SCA: 10 sobrestimaban la asociación final y 9 la subestimaban. CONCLUSIONES: Los datos clínicos iniciales clásicamente utilizados para sospechar SCA pacientes con DTNT en urgencias identifican todos ellos individualmente a pacientes con riesgo incrementado de ser clasificado inicial y finalmente como SCA; sin embargo, algunos de ellos sobreestiman y otros subestiman inicialmente el riesgo final. Los urgenciólogos debieran sensibilizarse más con estos datos subestimados.

The German CPU registry: Comparison of smokers and nonsmokers.

BACKGROUND: Chest pain is a major reason for admission to an internal emergency department, and smoking is a well-known risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD) and acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The aim of this analysis is to illustrate the differences between smokers and nonsmokers presenting to German chest pain units (CPU) in regard to patient characteristics, CAD manifestation, treatment strategy, and prognosis. METHODS: From December 2008 to March 2014, 13,902 patients who had a complete 3­month follow-up were enrolled in the German CPU registry. The analysis comprised 5796 patients with ACS and documented smoking status. RESULTS: Of all the patients in the CPU registry, 35.2% were smokers. Compared with nonsmokers, they were 13.5 years younger (58.2 vs. 71.7 years, p < 0.001), predominantly men (77.1% vs. 65.2%, p < 0.001), and were more frequently diagnosed with single-vessel disease (32.1% vs. 25.2%) as well as ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI; 23.8% vs. 15.5%, p < 0.001). Although the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) Risk Score for hospital mortality was lower in the group of smokers (106.1 vs. 123.3, p < 0.001), we did not observe any differences in CPU death (0.4% vs. 0.4%, p = 0.69) and CPU major adverse cardiac event (MACE) rates (3.8% vs 2.9%, p = 0.073) between the groups. In the 3­month follow-up, we documented higher mortality rates in the nonsmoker group (1.9% vs. 2.9%, p = 0.035) in correlation with the GRACE Risk Score (80.3 vs. 105.2, p < 0.001). MACE rates were similar during the follow-up (3.1% vs. 4.1%, p = 0.065). CONCLUSION: Observations from the German CPU registry demonstrate that smoking is a strong predictor of acute CAD manifestation early in life, especially STEMI. In spite of a lower GRACE Risk Score and fewer comorbidities, smokers had a rate of hospital mortality similar to the older group of nonsmokers.

Guideline-adherence regarding critical time intervals in the German Chest Pain Unit registry.

BACKGROUND: Since 2008, the German Cardiac Society certified 256 Chest Pain Units (CPUs). Little is known about adherence to recommended performance measures in patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) presenting to CPUs. We investigated guideline-adherence regarding critical time intervals and selected performance measures in German Chest Pain Units. METHODS: From 2008 to 2014, 23,804 consecutive patients with suspected ACS were prospectively enrolled in the Chest Pain Unit registry of the German Cardiac Society. RESULTS: Median time from symptom onset to first medical contact was 2 h in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and 4 h in patients with unstable angina and non-STEMI (NSTEMI). In patients with STEMI, median time from hospital admission to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was 40 min and median time from first medical contact to PCI was 1 h 35 min. Primary PCI was performed in 94.7% of patients with STEMI, 70.0% of patients with NSTEMI and 37.4% of patients with unstable angina. PCI was performed during the first 24 h in 79.5% of patients with NSTEMI and the first 72 h in 89.0% of patients with unstable angina. Electrocardiograms were performed in 99.5% after a median of 6 min after admission and obtained within 10 min in 71%. Interestingly, 56.1% of patients were found to have non-ACS diagnoses, underlining the importance of access to additional diagnostic modalities including echocardiography, stress testing or computed tomography. CONCLUSIONS: Guideline-adherence regarding critical time intervals and primary PCI rates is good in German Chest Pain Units. More than half of patients admitted with suspected ACS had non-ACS diagnoses. Improvements in pre-hospital time delays through public awareness programmes are warranted.