[Peripartum cardiomyopathy with biventricular failure plus pulmonary thromboembolism and atrial septal defect]. / Miocardiopatía periparto con fallo biventricular más tromboembolismo pulmonar y comunicación interauricular.

This case report examines peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), a rare variant of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, which manifests at the end of labor or puerperium. The frequency of this pathology varies globally, and its association with risk factors such as genetic disorders, autoimmune diseases, viral infections, suggests a multifactorial etiology. Diagnostic criteria include: Heart failure secondary to left ventricular systolic dysfunction, manifested in the puerperium or at the end of pregnancy and lack of other identifiable causes of heart failure. The case presents a patient with no significant personal pathological history, who, 17 days post cesarean section developed acute symptoms, including abdominal pain, dry cough and dyspnea. Clinical findings revealed hypoxemia, alterations in blood tests and an echocardiogram that confirmed an atrial septal defect. Multidisciplinary management resulted in successful treatment and the patient was discharged without complications. This case highlights the importance of MCPP, a disease with high maternal mortality. The connection between atrial septal defect and PPCM, as well as the involvement of pulmonary thromboembolism.

Filtro de vena cava inferior ante diagnóstico de trombosis venosa profunda en gestante en trabajo de parto. A propósito de un caso clínico / Inferior vena cava filter before diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis in a pregnant woman in labor: A case report

Introducción: El embarazo representa un estado procoagulante que aumenta el riesgo de fenómenos trombóticos en la mujer. Al igual que en la población no gestante, deberemos diagnosticar y tratar lo más precozmente posible dichos eventos para evitar la migración del trombo a otras localizaciones. La anticoagulación constituye la medida terapéutica de primera línea. Sin embargo, ciertas situaciones de aumento de sangrado como el trabajo de parto pueden suponer una contraindicación para iniciar dicha anticoagulación. En el siguiente artículo se desarrolla un caso clínico en el que el diagnóstico de trombosis venosa profunda tuvo lugar al inicio del trabajo de parto. Principales síntomas y/o hallazgos clínicos: Aumento de diámetro de miembro inferior izquierdo, con enrojecimiento del mismo y aumento de temperatura local. La paciente describía dolor a nivel de dicha extremidad desde hacía 15 días. No presentaba disnea y la saturación de oxígeno era del 100%. Diagnósticos principales: Trombosis venosa profunda, trabajo de parto. Intervenciones terapéuticas: La contraindicación de anticoagulación y la necesidad de un tratamiento inmediato plantearon el filtro de vena cava inferior como la opción más razonable. Resultados: Tras la colocación del filtro, el parto cursó sin incidencias; no migró el émbolo y el filtro se retiró a los 29 días del parto sin complicaciones. Conclusión: Pese a nuestra escasa experiencia clínica en el manejo de estos casos, podemos afirmar que el filtro de vena cava inferior representa una opción razonable y segura en los casos de trombosis de miembros inferiores en mujeres en trabajo de parto.(AU)

Introduction: Pregnancy represents a procoagulant state that increases women's risk of thrombotic phenomena. As in the non-pregnant population, we must diagnose and treat these events as early as possible to avoid the migration of the thrombus to other locations. Anticoagulation is the first-line therapeutic measure. However, certain situations of increased bleeding such as labor may be a contraindication to initiate such anticoagulation. The following article develops a clinical case in which the deep vein thrombosis diagnosis occurred at the onset of labor. Main symptoms and/or clinical findings: Increase in diameter of the left lower limb, with redness of the same and increase in local temperature. The patient described pain at the level of this limb for 15 days. He had no dyspnea and oxygen saturation was 100%. Main diagnoses: Deep vein thrombosis, labor. Therapeutic interventions: The contraindication of anticoagulation and the need for immediate treatment raised the inferior vena cava filter as the most reasonable option. Results: After the placement of the filter, the delivery proceeded without incident. The plunger did not migrate and the filter was removed 29 days after delivery without complications. Conclusion: Despite our limited clinical experience in the management of these cases, we can affirm that the inferior vena cava filter represents a reasonable and safe option in cases of thrombosis of the lower limbs in women in labor.(AU)

Actualización del abordaje de la hipertensión pulmonar tromboembólica crónica / Update in the management of chronic thrombo-embolic pulmonary hypertension

La hipertensión pulmonar tromboembólica crónica (HPTEC) es una forma potencialmente curable de hipertensión pulmonar (HP) que aparece hasta en 3% de los pacientes tras una embolia pulmonar (EP). En estos pacientes, la EP no se resuelve, dando paso a coágulos fibróticos organizados, con el desarrollo de HP precapilar debido a la obstrucción proximal de las arterias pulmonares. También puede desarrollarse una microvasculopatía distal que contribuye al aumento de la resistencia vascular pulmonar (RVP). La ecocardiografía transtorácica (ETT) es la exploración que permite establecer la sospecha de HP. La gammagrafía pulmonar de ventilación-perfusión (V/Q) es la herramienta fundamental en el estudio de los pacientes con sospecha de HPTEC; si es normal, prácticamente la descarta. El cateterismo cardiaco derecho es obligatorio para el diagnóstico. La HPTEC se define como la existencia de síntomas, defectos de perfusión residuales e HP precapilar tras un periodo mínimo de tres meses de anticoagulación. La angiografía pulmonar ayuda a determinar la extensión y la accesibilidad quirúrgica de las lesiones tromboembólicas. Las personas con HPTEC son candidatas a anticoagulación indefinida. La endarterectomía pulmonar es el tratamiento de elección, resultando en una mejoría clínica y hemodinámica significativa. Aproximadamente un 25% de los pacientes presentan HP residual postendarterectomía. La angioplastia pulmonar con balón (APB) es una técnica endovascular dirigida a lesiones más distales, de utilidad para sujetos con HPTEC inoperable o HP persistente/recidivante postendarterectomía. Ambos tipos de pacientes también se pueden beneficiar de tratamiento farmacológico para la HP. Las tres terapias constituyen los pilares de la terapia, que ha evolucionado hacia un enfoque multimodal.(AU)

Chronic thrombo-embolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a potentially curable form of pulmonary hypertension (PH) that develops in up to 3% of patients after pulmonary embolism (PE). In these patients, PE does not resolve, leading to organized fibrotic clots, with the development of precapillary PH as a result of the proximal obstruction of the pulmonary arteries. In addition, a distal microvasculopathy may also develop, contributing to the increase of pulmonary vascular resistance. Transthoracic echocardiography is the diagnostic tool that allows to establish the suspicion of PH. Ventilation-perfusion lung scintigraphy is the fundamental tool in the study of patients with suspected CTEPH; if it is normal, virtually rules out the diagnosis. Right heart catheterization is mandatory for the diagnosis of these patients. CTEPH is defined as the existence of symptoms, residual perfusion defects and precapillary PH after a minimum period of three months of anticoagulation. Pulmonary angiography helps determine the extent and surgical accessibility of thromboembolic lesions. CTEPH patients are candidates for long-term anticoagulation. Pulmonary endarterectomy is the treatment of choice, resulting in significant clinical and hemodynamic improvement. About 25% of patients have residual PH post-endarterectomy. Balloon pulmonary angioplasty is an endovascular technique that targets more distal lesions, being potentially useful for patients with inoperable CTEPH or persistent/recurrent PH post-endarterectomy. Both types of patients may also benefit from pharmacological treatment for PH. These three therapies are the cornerstone of CTEPH treatment, which has evolved towards a multimodal approach.(AU)

Update in the management of chronic thrombo-embolic pulmonary hypertension. / Actualización del abordaje de la hipertensión pulmonar tromboembólica crónica.

Chronic thrombo-embolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) is a potentially curable form of pulmonary hypertension (PH) that develops in up to 3% of patients after pulmonary embolism (PE). In these patients, PE does not resolve, leading to organized fibrotic clots, with the development of precapillary PH as a result of the proximal obstruction of the pulmonary arteries. In addition, a distal microvasculopathy may also develop, contributing to the increase of pulmonary vascular resistance. Transthoracic echocardiography is the diagnostic tool that allows to establish the suspicion of PH. Ventilation-perfusion lung scintigraphy is the fundamental tool in the study of patients with suspected CTEPH; if it is normal, virtually rules out the diagnosis. Right heart catheterization is mandatory for the diagnosis of these patients. CTEPH is defined as the existence of symptoms, residual perfusion defects and precapillary PH after a minimum period of three months of anticoagulation. Pulmonary angiography helps determine the extent and surgical accessibility of thromboembolic lesions. CTEPH patients are candidates for long-term anticoagulation. Pulmonary endarterectomy is the treatment of choice, resulting in significant clinical and hemodynamic improvement. About 25% of patients have residual PH post-endarterectomy. Balloon pulmonary angioplasty is an endovascular technique that targets more distal lesions, being potentially useful for patients with inoperable CTEPH or persistent/recurrent PH post-endarterectomy. Both types of patients may also benefit from pharmacological treatment for PH. These three therapies are the cornerstone of CTEPH treatment, which has evolved towards a multimodal approach.

Underuse of reperfusion therapy with systemic thrombolysis in high-risk acute pulmonary embolism in a Portuguese center.

INTRODUCTION: Reperfusion therapy is generally recommended in acute high-risk pulmonary embolism (HR-PE), but several population-based studies report that it is underused. Data on epidemiology, management and outcomes of HR-PE in Portugal are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To determine the reperfusion rate in HR-PE patients, the reasons for non-reperfusion, and how it influences outcomes. METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study of consecutive HR-PE patients admitted to a thromboembolic disease referral center between 2008 and 2018, independent predictors for non-reperfusion were assessed by multivariate logistic regression. PE-related mortality and long-term MACE (cardiovascular mortality, PE recurrence and chronic thromboembolic disease) were calculated according to the Kaplan-Meier method. Differences stratified by reperfusion were assessed using the log-rank test. RESULTS: Of 1955 acute PE patients, 3.8% presented with hemodynamic instability. The overall reperfusion rate was 50%: 35 patients underwent systemic thrombolysis, one received first-line percutaneous embolectomy and one rescue endovascular treatment. Independent predictors of non-reperfusion were: age, with >75 years representing 12 times the risk of non-treatment (OR 11.9, 95% CI 2.7-52.3, p=0.001); absolute contraindication for thrombolysis (31.1%), with recent major surgery and central nervous system disease as the most common reasons (OR 16.7, 95% CI 3.2-87.0, p<0.001); and being hospitalized (OR 7.7, 95% CI 1.4-42.9, p=0.020). At a mean follow-up of 2.5±3.3 years, the survival rate was 33.8%. Although not reaching statistical significance for hospital mortality, mortality in the reperfusion group was significantly lower at 30 days, 12 months and during follow-up (relative risk reduction of death of 64% at 12 months, p=0.013). Similar results were found for MACE. CONCLUSIONS: In this population, the recommended reperfusion therapy was performed in only 50% of patients, with advanced age and absolute contraindications to fibrinolysis being the main predictors of non-reperfusion. In this study, thrombolysis underuse was associated with a significant increase in short- and long-term mortality and events.

A mudança de paradigma no tratamento do tromboembolismo venoso grave / The paradigm shift in treatment of severe venous thromboembolism

Resumo A embolia pulmonar (EP) é a terceira maior causa de morte cardiovascular e a principal de morte evitável intra-hospitalar no mundo. O conceito PERT® (do inglês, pulmonary embolism response team) envolve seu diagnóstico e tratamento precoce e multidisciplinar. A trombose venosa profunda (TVP) é a sua causa inicial na maioria dos casos e é responsável por complicações como a recidiva tromboembólica, a síndrome pós-trombótica e a hipertensão pulmonar tromboembólica crônica. Uma abordagem inicial semelhante ao PERT nos casos de TVP ilíaco-femoral grave pode reduzir não apenas o risco imediato de EP e morte, mas também suas sequelas tardias. Novas técnicas percutâneas e aparatos de trombectomia mecânica para o tromboembolismo venoso (TEV) vêm demonstrando resultados clínicos encorajadores. Propomos o desenvolvimento de um conceito ampliado de resposta rápida ao TEV, que envolve não apenas a EP (PERT®) mas também os casos graves de TVP: o time de resposta rápida para o TEV (TRETEV®), ou do inglês Venous Thromboembolism Response Team (VTERT®).

Abstract Pulmonary embolism (PE) is the third leading cause of cardiovascular death and the main cause of preventable in-hospital death in the world. The PERT® (Pulmonary Embolism Response Team) concept involves multidisciplinary diagnosis and immediate treatment. Deep venous thrombosis (DVT) is the initial cause of most cases of PE and is responsible for complications such as chronic thromboembolic recurrence, postthrombotic syndrome, and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. An aggressive approach to severe cases of iliofemoral DVT similar to the PERT® system can not only reduce the immediate risk of PE and death but can also reduce later sequelae. New percutaneous techniques and mechanical thrombectomy devices for venous thromboembolism (VTE) have shown encouraging clinical results. We propose the development of an expanded concept of rapid response to VTE, which involves not only PE (PERT®) but also severe cases of DVT: the Venous Thromboembolism Response Team (VTERT®).

Isquemia aguda por trombosis aórtica en COVID-19: A propósito de un caso

Objetivo: Presentar un caso de isquemia aguda por trombosis aórtica en paciente con infección por COVID-19 y exponer la importancia del diagnóstico y manejo oportuno. Introducción: El coronavirus (COVID-19) afecta principalmente al tracto respiratorio, pero presenta predisposición a fenómenos trombóticos y sus complicaciones, siendo una de las más graves la isquemia aguda por trombosis aórtica. Caso clínico: Paciente masculino de 68 años, que cursa con cuadro clínico de neumonía grave por COVID-19, presenta de forma concomitante episodio de trombosis aórtica aguda, resultando con isquemia aguda de extremidades inferiores. Se realizó trombectomía, post procedimiento y asociado a reperfusión, presentó paro cardiorrespiratorio con asistolia sostenida, falleciendo pese a maniobras de reanimación. Conclusión: Pese a las medidas de profilaxis con heparina de bajo peso molecular (HBPM), se deben sospechar y buscar las complicaciones tromboembólicas en pacientes que cursan con esta infección para dar un manejo oportuno y vigilar las complicaciones post quirúrgicas que pueden ser mortales.

Aim: To present a case of acute ischemia due to aortic thrombosis in a patient with COVID-19 infection and explain the importance of diagnosis and timely management. Introduction: The coronavirus (COVID-19) mainly affects the respiratory tract, but it has a predisposition to thrombotic phenomena and its complications, one of the most serious being acute ischemia due to aortic thrombosis. Clinical case: 68-year-old man, coronary heart disease with severe pneumonia due to COVID-19, presents aortic thrombosis, resulting in acute lower extremity ischemia. Thrombectomy was performed, post procedure and associated with reperfusion, presented cardiorespiratory arrest with sustained asystole, died despite resuscitation maneuvers. Conclusion: Despite prophylaxis measures with low molecular-weight heparins (LMWH), thromboembolic complications should be sought in patients with this infection to provide timely management and monitor post-surgical complications that can be fatal.

Rivaroxaban versus enoxaparin for thromboprophylaxis in orthopedic surgery: A meta-analysis. / Rivaroxaban frente a enoxaparina como tromboprofilaxis en cirugía ortopédica y traumatología: un metaanálisis.

INTRODUCTION: Venous thromboembolism is highly associated with orthopedic surgery, so thromboprophylaxis is an important consideration for orthopedic surgeons. The new oral anticoagulants have clear advantages for clinical practice. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the efficacy and safety of rivaroxaban versus enoxaparin for thromboprophylaxis in different orthopedic surgeries. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Systematic electronic search of clinical trials was carried out. Data extraction of efficacy outcomes (deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and death) and safety outcomes (major bleeding and clinical relevant bleeding) was realized. RESULTS: Six randomized and controlled clinical trials were included in this meta-analysis. Compared with enoxaparin the risk of venous thromboembolism was lower with rivaroxaban both in different orthopedic surgeries (RR: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.36-0.73; P=.0002). This result was even better and more homogeneous in the analysis of symptomatic deep venous thrombosis outcome (RR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.28-0.65; P<.0001; I2=0%; P=.49). The risk of bleeding was not significantly higher with rivaroxaban (RR: 1.20; 95% CI: 0.97-1.49; P=.09). CONCLUSIONS: Rivaroxaban should be considerate such as a more effective alternative for thromboprophylaxis in orthopedic surgery.

Risk of venous thromboembolism in thromboprophylaxis between aspirin and low molecular weight heparins after total hip arthroplasty or total knee arthroplasty: Systematic review and meta-analysis. / Riesgo de tromboembolismo venoso en la tromboprofilaxis entre aspirina y heparinas de bajo peso molecular tras una artroplastia total de cadera o artroplastia total de rodilla. Revisión sistemática y metaanálisis.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of aspirin versus low molecular weight heparins (LMWH) for the prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE), deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and/or total hip arthroplasty (THA). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Sixteen studies were selected. The risk of VTE, DVT and PE were analyzed. Mortality, risk of bleeding and surgical wound complications was also analyzed. RESULTS: 248,461 patients were included. 176,406 patients with thromboprophylaxis with LMWH and 72,055 patients with aspirin thromboprophylaxis. There were no significant differences in the risk of VTE (OR = 0.93; 95% CI: 0.69-1.26; P = .64), DVT (OR = 0.72; 95% CI: 0.43-1.20; P = .21) or PE (OR = 1.13; 95% CI: 0.86-1.49; P = .38) between both groups. No significant differences were found in mortality (P = .30), bleeding (P = .22), or complications in the surgical wound (P = .85) between both groups. These same findings were found in the sub-analysis of only randomized clinical trials (P>.05). CONCLUSIONS: No increased risk of PE, DVT, or VTE was found among patients with aspirin thromboprophylaxis versus patients with LMWH thromboprophylaxis. There was also no greater mortality, greater bleeding, or greater complications in the surgical wound found among patients with aspirin thromboprophylaxis versus patients with LMWH thromboprophylaxis.

Valoración del tromboembolismo pulmonar relacionado con infección SARS-CoV-2 activa en pacientes embarazadas / Assessment of pulmonary embolism related to active SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women

Objetivo Analizar la muestra de pacientes embarazadas a las que se les realizó una gammagrafía de perfusión pulmonar para descartar la sospecha de tromboembolismo pulmonar (TEP) durante el ingreso en nuestro centro por infección aguda por COVID-19. Material y métodos A todas las pacientes (n=5) se les realizó una gammagrafía SPECT con dosis reducida (111MBq) de 99mTc-macroagregados de albúmina. Las imágenes obtenidas se interpretaron comparando los hallazgos con la imagen radiológica según criterios PISAPED. Resultados De las 5 pacientes, tan solo en una se diagnosticó TEP. En 2 pacientes los hallazgos patológicos de la gammagrafía fueron atribuibles a alteraciones radiológicas por neumonía COVID-19, y otras 2 mostraron una perfusión pulmonar normal. Conclusión Dado lo inespecífico de las manifestaciones clínicas y los valores del dímero D dentro de la COVID-19, así como su similitud con los de TEP, la gammagrafía de perfusión pulmonar, por su alta sensibilidad y menor irradiación que la TC, tiene un papel crucial en el despistaje de TEP en estas pacientes. Los resultados obtenidos son de especial relevancia, a pesar del número limitado de pacientes, dada la ausencia de publicaciones científicas en este grupo de pacientes dentro de la situación excepcional por la pandemia de COVID-19 (AU)

Aim To analyze the sample of pregnant patients who underwent pulmonary perfusion scintigraphy to rule out the pulmonary embolism (PE) suspicion during the acute COVID-19 infection hospitalization period in our hospital. Material and methods SPECT scintigraphy with a reduced dose (111MBq) of 99mTc-macroaggregated albumin was performed in all of the patients (n=5). The obtained images were interpreted by comparing the findings with the radiological images according to the PISAPED criteria. Results Only one of the 5 patients was diagnosed with PE. Two patients obtained pathological findings of the scintigraphy attributable to radiological alterations due to COVID-19 pneumonia, and the other 2 had normal pulmonary perfussion. Conclusion Given the non-specific features of the clinical manifestations and D-dimer values in COVID-19, as well as their similarity to those of PE, the pulmonary perfusion scintigraphy plays a crucial role in the screening of PE in these patients due to its high sensitivity and lower irradiation compared to CT. Despite the limited number of patients, the results obtained have special relevance related to the absence of scientific publications on this group of patients within the context of COVID-19 pandemic exceptional situation (AU)

Treatment of intracardiac thrombi using ultra-slow low-dose thrombolytic therapy: A case report.

A 57-year-old male with previously known severe primary mitral regurgitation was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) due to massive venous thromboembolism, associated with right ventricular dysfunction and two large mobile right atrial thrombi. Due to deterioration in his clinical condition despite standard treatment with unfractionated heparin, it was decided to use an ultra-slow low-dose thrombolysis protocol, which consisted of a 24-hour infusion of 24 mg of alteplase at a rate of 1 mg per hour, without initial bolus. The treatment was continued for 48 consecutive hours, with clinical improvement and resolution of the intracardiac thrombi and no complications. One month after ICU admission, successful mitral valve repair surgery was conducted. This case demonstrates that ultra-slow low-dose thrombolysis is a valid bailout treatment option in patients with large intracardiac thrombi refractory to the standard approach.

Tratamiento farmacológico para tromboembolismo pulmonar dirigido a pacientes con fibrilación auricular / Pharmacologic treatment for pulmonary thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation / Tratamento farmacológico para tromboembolismo pulmonar em pacientes com fibrilação atrial

La fibrilación auricular es una de las arritmias cardiacas más frecuentes. Afecta a 1 de cada 200 personas de entre 40 y 50 años de edad, pero puede llegar a afectar a más de 1 de cada 10 personas de 80 años. Objetivo. Proponer una guía de tratamiento farmacológico para evitar el tromboembolismo pulmonar en pacientes con fibrilación auricular con respuesta ventricular. Materiales y métodos. Los métodos utilizados fueron de nivel teórico como histórico lógico, modelación, hipotético- deductivo, dialectico, holístico-holográfico y sistémico estructural- funcional. Como métodos empíricos. se aplicaron la revisión de documentos guías, historias clínicas, encuestas a médicos y farmacéuticas, también se realizó la observación científica, los resultados se reflejaron la revisión de las historias clínicas de los 38 pacientes con diagnóstico de fibrilación auricular crónica. Resultados. Se representa el tipo de tratamiento con un predominio de 24 pacientes que toman anticoagulantes (63,16%), los pacientes en su mayoría no estaban anti coagulados, pacientes anti coagulados (34,62%), además se elaboró la propuesta de una guía de tratamiento farmacológico para evitar el tromboembolismo pulmonar en pacientes con fibrilación auricular con respuesta ventricular rápida, de acuerdo a los estándares internacionales para para prevenir las complicaciones tromboembólicas de la fibrilación auricular. Conclusiones. Debido a su prevalencia creciente, al impacto en la supervivencia, la calidad de vida de los pacientes, los elevados costos sanitarios que conlleva su tratamiento y el incesante avance en nuevos tratamientos de la fibrilación auricular con respuesta ventricular rápida, hace que sea necesario actualizar de manera periódica las recomendaciones basadas en la evidencia.

Atrial fibrillation is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias. It affects 1 in 200 people between 40 and 50 years of age, but may affect more than 1 in 10 people in their 80s. Objective. To propose a pharmacological treatment guideline to prevent pulmonary thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation with ventricular response. Materials and methods. The methods used were of theoretical level as historical-logical, modeling, hypothetical- deductive, dialectical, holistic-holographic and systemic-structural-functional. As empirical methods, the review of guidelines documents, clinical histories, surveys to physicians and pharmacists were applied, as well as scientific observation, the results were reflected in the review of the clinical histories of the 38 patients with a diagnosis of chronic atrial fibrillation. Results. The type of treatment is represented with a predominance of 24 patients taking anticoagulants (63.16%), most of the patients were not anti coagulated, anti coagulated patients (34.62%), also the proposal of a pharmacological treatment guide to avoid pulmonary thromboembolism in patients with atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response was elaborated, according to international standards to prevent thromboembolic complications of atrial fibrillation. Conclusions. Due to its increasing prevalence, the impact on survival, the quality of life of patients, the high health care costs involved in its treatment, and the incessant advance in new treatments for atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response, it is necessary to periodically update the evidence-based recommendations.

A fibrilação atrial é uma das arritmias cardíacas mais comuns. Afeta 1 em cada 200 pessoas entre 40 e 50 anos de idade, mas pode afetar mais de 1 em cada 10 pessoas em seus 80 anos. Objetivo. Propor uma diretriz de tratamento farmacológico para prevenir o tromboembolismo pulmonar em pacientes com fibrilação atrial com resposta ventricular. Materiais e métodos. Os métodos utilizados foram de um nível teórico, como histórico-lógico, modelagem, hipotético-dedutivo, dialético, holístico-holográfico e sistêmico-estrutural-funcional. Como métodos empíricos, a revisão de documentos de orientação, históricos clínicos, pesquisas de médicos e farmacêuticos foram aplicados, assim como a observação científica, os resultados foram refletidos na revisão dos históricos clínicos dos 38 pacientes com um diagnóstico de fibrilação atrial crônica. Resultados. O tipo de tratamento é representado com uma predominância de 24 pacientes tomando anticoagulantes (63,16%), a maioria dos pacientes não era anticoagulante, anticoagulante (34,62%), e uma proposta de um guia de tratamento farmacológico para prevenir o tromboembolismo pulmonar em pacientes com fibrilação atrial com resposta ventricular rápida foi elaborada, de acordo com as normas internacionais para prevenir complicações tromboembólicas da fibrilação atrial. Conclusões. Devido a sua crescente prevalência, o impacto na sobrevivência, a qualidade de vida dos pacientes, os altos custos de saúde envolvidos em seu tratamento e o incessante avanço em novos tratamentos para fibrilação atrial com resposta ventricular rápida, é necessário atualizar periodicamente as recomendações baseadas em evidências.

Anticoagulación en enfermedad renal crónica G4-5 en una red de hospitales de Bogotá

Contexto: la anticoagulación en pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica es un reto terapéutico debido a que la evidencia médica es escasa y los beneficios son discutibles, además, el riesgo de sangrado en estos pacientes es mayor. Objetivo: describir los pacientes con enfermedad renal G4-5 que recibieron terapia anticoagulante oral durante por lo menos tres meses en la Subred Centro Oriente de Bogotá. Metodología: estudio analítico de pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica G4-5 en un hospital de referencia entre enero del 2018 y diciembre del 2021, en el cual se analizaron variables sociodemográficas, clínicas y se realizó una regresión logística sobre los anticoagulantes y la frecuencia de eventos (hemorrágicos o embólicos). Resultados: se evaluó a 75 pacientes con diagnóstico de enfermedad renal crónica G4-5 anticoagulados, donde el anticoagulante más usado fue warfarina (76 %), seguido de apixabán (16 %) y rivaroxabán (8 %). El sangrado mayor se presentó con warfarina (8,47 %), apixabán (10%) y rivaroxabán (16,6 %). No se encontraron diferencias significativas entre el sangrado mayor con warfarina (OR: 2,8; IC 95 %: 0,46-16,9; p = 0,262) y rivaroxabán (OR: 1,86; IC 95 %: 0,18-18,7; p = 0,596), además, el sangrado no mayor y clínicamente relevante fue del 28,9 % con warfarina. Solo se presentó una complicación trombótica en un paciente que recibió rivaroxabán. Conclusiones: en los pacientes con enfermedad renal G4-5 que recibieron warfarina y los anticoagulantes orales directos no se encontraron diferencias significativas en cuanto a la presentación de sangrado mayor y no mayor, clínicamente relevantes.

Background: Anticoagulation in patients with chronic kidney disease is a therapeutic challenge since the medical evidence is scarce and the benefits are debatable since the risk of bleeding in these patients is greater. Purpose: To describe patients with G4-5 kidney disease who received oral anticoagulant therapy for at least 3 months in the central-eastern subnetwork of Bogotá. Methodology: Analytical study of patients with G4-5 chronic kidney disease, in a reference hospital between January 2018 and December 2021, in which sociodemographic and clinical variables were analyzed, and a logistic regression was performed on anticoagulants and the frequency of events (hemorrhagic or embolic). Results: 75 anticoagulated patients diagnosed with G4-5 chronic kidney disease were evaluated. The most commonly used anticoagulant was warfarin (76%), apixaban (16%), and rivaroxaban (8%). Major bleeding occurred with warfarin (8.47%), apixaban (10%), and rivaroxaban (16.6%). There are no significant differences between major bleeding with warfarin (OR: 2.8; 95% CI: 0.46;16.9; p= 0.262), and rivaroxaban (OR: 1.86; 95% CI: 0.18;18.7; p=0.596). Clinically relevant non-major bleeding was 28.9% with warfarin. A thrombotic complication only occurred in one patient who received rivaroxaban. Conclusions: In patients with G4-5 kidney disease who received warfarin and direct oral anticoagulants, no significant differences were found in terms of the presentation of clinically relevant major and non-major bleeding.

Risk of thrombosis recurrence among patients with COVID-19 and surgery-associated venous thromboembolism.

INTRODUCTION: Recent surgery is a well-known major transient risk factor for venous thromboembolism (VTE) due to the low risk of VTE recurrence after anticoagulation is discontinued. On the other hand, the risk of VTE recurrence among patients with COVID-19-associated VTE is unknown. This study aimed to compare the risk of VTE recurrence between patients with COVID-19- and surgery-associated VTE. METHODS: A prospective observational single-center study was performed including consecutive patients diagnosed with VTE in a tertiary hospital from January 2020 to May 2022 and followed up for at least 90 days. Baseline characteristics, clinical presentation, and outcomes were assessed. The incidence of VTE recurrence, bleeding, and death was compared between both groups. RESULTS: A total of 344 patients were included in the study: 111 patients with surgery-associated VTE and 233 patients with COVID-19-associated VTE. Patients with COVID-19-associated VTE were more frequently men (65.7% vs 48.6%, p =  0.003). VTE recurrence was 3% among COVID-19 patients and 5.4% among surgical patients, with no significant differences (p =  0.364). The incidence rate of recurrent VTE was 1.25 per 1000 person-months in COVID-19 patients and 2.29 person-months in surgical patients, without significant differences (p =  0.29). In the multivariate analysis, COVID-19 was associated with higher mortality (HR 2.34; 95% CI 1.19-4.58), but not with a higher risk of recurrence (HR 0.52; 95% CI 0.17-1.61). No differences were found in recurrence in the multivariate competing risk analysis (SHR 0.82; 95% CI 0.40-2.05). CONCLUSIONS: In patients with COVID-19 and surgery-associated VTE, the risk of recurrence was low, with no differences between both groups.

Efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants for the treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis / Eficacia y seguridad de los anticoagulantes orales directos para el tratamiento de la tromboembolia venosa asociada al cáncer: una revisión sistemática y un metaanálisis en red bayesiana

Introduction: Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) could effectively prevent the occurrence of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (CAVTE), which incidence rate was estimated to be 4–20%. But the efficacy and safety remain controversial between DOACs and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH).Materials and methodsPubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were systematically searched from inception to March 15, 2022. A random-effects model was used to report the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for both direct and network meta-analyses.ResultsSeven studies were included totaling 3242 patients. A lower rate of recurrence VTE was noted in the DOACs compared with LMWH (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.47–0.82, I2=0.0%). The aspect of major bleeding (MB) was similar (OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.77–2.18, I2=34.9%). When assessing clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding (CRNMB) (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.17–2.22, I2=20.7%) and clinically relevant bleeding (CRB) (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.11–1.74, I2=0.0%), a higher risk of events was observed in DOACs. In subgroup analyses, the MB of gastrointestinal and genitourinary malignancies had a higher rate in the DOACs. For ranking, apixaban ranked the first in prevention of VTE and reducing MB events. Edoxaban had the highest risk drug in MB. In terms of CRNMB and CRB, LMWH showed the lowest risk.ConclusionsCompared with LMWH, DOACs seemed to have a decreased risk of recurrence VTE while increasing CRNMB and CRB. DOACs and LMWH were equivalent to the aspect of MB, but DOACs had a higher MB risk in patients with gastrointestinal and genitourinary malignancies. Apixaban may be the lowest risk compared to the other DOACs in precaution of VTE and reducing bleeding events. (AU)

Introducción: Los anticoagulantes orales directos (ACOD) son eficaces en la prevención de la tromboembolia venosa (TEV) relacionada con el cáncer, cuya tasa de incidencia se estima en 4-20%. Sin embargo, la eficacia y seguridad de ACOD y heparina de bajo peso molecular (HBPM) siguen siendo controvertidas.Materiales y métodosDesde el inicio hasta el 15 de marzo de 2022 se realizaron búsquedas sistemáticas en las bases de datos de ensayos controlados aleatorios (ECA) en PubMed, The Cochrane Library, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov. Se utilizó el modelo de efectos aleatorios para informar la razón de probabilidades (RP) y los intervalos de confianza (IC) de 95% para los metaanálisis directos y de red.ResultadosSe incluyeron siete estudios con un total de 3.242 pacientes. En comparación con HBPM, los ACOD tienen una tasa más baja de recurrencia de TEV (OR 0,62, IC 95%: 0,47 a 0,82, I2 = 0,0%). La frecuencia de hemorragias mayores fue similar (OR 1,30, IC 95% 0,77 a 2,18, I2 = 34,9%). Se observó un mayor riesgo de eventos en los ACOD. Cuando se evaluaron las hemorragias no mayores clínicamente relevantes (CRNMB) (OR 1,61, IC 95%: 1,17 a 2,22, I2 = 20,7%) y las hemorragias clínicamente relevantes (OR 1,39, IC 95%: 1,11 a 1,74, I2 = 0,0%), En los análisis de subgrupos, las hemorragias mayores en las neoplasias malignas gastrointestinales y genitourinarias fueron más frecuentes con los ACOD. Apixabán ocupó el primer lugar en la prevención de TEV y la reducción de eventos hemorrágicos mayores. Edoxabán tuvo el mayor riesgo de hemorragias mayores. Las HBPM demostraron tener menor riesgo de hemorragias mayores clínicamente relevantes y hemorragias clínicamente relevantes. (AU)

Assessment of pulmonary embolism related to active SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women.

AIM: To analyze a sample of pregnant patients who underwent pulmonary perfusion scintigraphy to rule out suspicion of pulmonary embolism (PE) during the acute COVID-19 infection hospitalization period in our hospital. MATERIAL AND METHODS: SPECT scintigraphy with a reduced dose (111MBq) of 99mTc-macroaggregated albumin was performed in all the patients (n=5). The images obtained were interpreted by comparing the findings with the radiological images according to the PISAPED criteria. RESULTS: Only one of the 5 patients was diagnosed with PE. Two patients showed pathological scintigraphy findings attributable to radiological alterations due to COVID-19 pneumonia, and the other two had normal pulmonary perfusion. CONCLUSION: Given the non-specific features of the clinical manifestations and d-dimer values ​​in COVID-19, as well as their similarity to those of PE, pulmonary perfusion scintigraphy plays a crucial role in the screening of PE in these patients due to its high sensitivity and lower irradiation compared to CT. Despite the limited number of patients, the results obtained have special relevance due to the absence of scientific publications in this group of patients within the exceptional context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants for the treatment of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) could effectively prevent the occurrence of cancer-associated venous thromboembolism (CAVTE), which incidence rate was estimated to be 4-20%. But the efficacy and safety remain controversial between DOACs and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH). MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were systematically searched from inception to March 15, 2022. A random-effects model was used to report the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for both direct and network meta-analyses. RESULTS: Seven studies were included totaling 3242 patients. A lower rate of recurrence VTE was noted in the DOACs compared with LMWH (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.47-0.82, I2=0.0%). The aspect of major bleeding (MB) was similar (OR 1.30, 95% CI 0.77-2.18, I2=34.9%). When assessing clinically relevant nonmajor bleeding (CRNMB) (OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.17-2.22, I2=20.7%) and clinically relevant bleeding (CRB) (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.11-1.74, I2=0.0%), a higher risk of events was observed in DOACs. In subgroup analyses, the MB of gastrointestinal and genitourinary malignancies had a higher rate in the DOACs. For ranking, apixaban ranked the first in prevention of VTE and reducing MB events. Edoxaban had the highest risk drug in MB. In terms of CRNMB and CRB, LMWH showed the lowest risk. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with LMWH, DOACs seemed to have a decreased risk of recurrence VTE while increasing CRNMB and CRB. DOACs and LMWH were equivalent to the aspect of MB, but DOACs had a higher MB risk in patients with gastrointestinal and genitourinary malignancies. Apixaban may be the lowest risk compared to the other DOACs in precaution of VTE and reducing bleeding events.

Effect of direct oral anticoagulants versus vitamin K antagonists or warfarin in patients with left ventricular thrombus outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Left ventricular thrombus commonly occurs as a complication of acute anterior myocardial infarction and nonischemic cardiomyopathies with severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Its frequency is still high despite medical advances. Current guidelines recommend the use of vitamin k antagonists as first-line therapy, however, the off-label use of direct oral anticoagulants is becoming more frequent and attractive, given the better pharmacological and clinical profile, with the improvement of the patient's quality of life. AIM: To provide an update on the currently existing evidence regarding the outcomes of efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) as first-line therapy in left ventricular thrombus, in comparison to vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on the effects of direct oral anticoagulants versus vitamin K antagonists on left ventricular thrombi and on the results was performed. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included in the meta-analysis, with a total of 2498 patients (n=631 direct oral anticoagulants and n=1867 for VKAs). No significant differences were found in efficacy and safety outcomes (odds ratio (OR) 0.86; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.55-1.33; p=0.50; I2=32%) and (OR 1.0; 95% CI, 0.78-1.30; p=0.93; I2=2%) respectively. No difference was noted in all-cause mortality (OR 0.92; 95% CI, 0.58-1.45; p=0.74; I2=0%). Thrombus resolution was observed in 288/416 in direct oral anticoagulants vs. 732/1085 patients treated with VKAs (OR 1.14; 95% CI, 0.77-1.66; p=0.50; I2=33%). CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this meta-analysis suggest the potential utility of DOACs as a first-line strategy in patients with left ventricular thrombus.

Successful use of rivaroxaban achieving therapeutic anti-factor xa levels in a morbidly obese patient with acute intermediate-high risk pulmonary embolism / Uso bem-sucedido de rivaroxabana com níveis terapêuticos de antifator xa em paciente com obesidade mórbida e embolia pulmonar aguda de risco intermediário-alto

Abstract Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) have become the standard of care for acute and long-term therapy for venous thromboembolism (VTE) due to their efficacy and safety profiles. The 2021 International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis guidelines recommend using standard DOAC dosages in patients with BMI >40 kg/m2 or weight >120 kg. Use of DOACs remains uncertain in morbidly obese patients with VTE, including acute PE. A morbidly obese woman in her 30s who presented with acute worsening of dyspnea was diagnosed with acute intermediate-high risk acute pulmonary embolism and concomitant proximal deep vein thrombosis, constituting a clinically challenging scenario for treating her with rivaroxaban. Standard doses of rivaroxaban for acute and extended phase treatment of venous thromboembolism in individuals with morbid obesity at BMI>70 kg/m2 may be effective, and safe.

Resumo Devido à sua eficácia e aos seus perfis de segurança, os anticoagulantes orais diretos (DOACs) tornaram-se o padrão de cuidado para a terapia aguda e de longo prazo de tromboembolismo venoso (TEV). As diretrizes da Sociedade Internacional de Trombose e Hemostasia de 2021 recomendam o uso de dosagens padrão de DOACs em pacientes com índice de massa corporal (IMC) > 40 kg/m2 ou peso > 120 kg. O uso de DOACs em pacientes com obesidade mórbida e TEV, incluindo embolia pulmonar aguda, ainda não foi esclarecido. Uma mulher com obesidade mórbida na faixa dos 30 anos que apresentou piora aguda da dispneia foi diagnosticada com embolia pulmonar aguda de risco intermediário-alto e trombose venosa profunda proximal concomitante, com o cenário clínico desafiador de tratá-la com rivaroxabana. Doses padrão de rivaroxabana para tratamento e recorrência de tromboembolismo venoso em indivíduos com obesidade mórbida e IMC > 70 kg/m2 podem ser eficazes e seguras.