El puntaje de Framingham ayudaría en la estratificación del riesgo de pacientes con ergometría positiva y SPECT normal / The Framingham score could help in risk stratification of patients with positive ergometry and normal SPECT

Antecedentes. El valor pronóstico de una ergometría positiva en el contexto de imágenes tomográficas de perfusión miocárdica de estrés y reposo (SPECT) normales no está bien establecido. Objetivos. Documentar la incidencia de infarto, muerte y revascularización coronaria en pacientes con una ergometría positiva de riesgo intermedio e imágenes de perfusión SPECT normales, y explorar el potencial valor del puntaje de riesgo de Framingham en la estratificación pronóstica de estos pacientes. Métodos. Cohorte retrospectiva integrada por pacientes que habían presentado síntomas o hallazgos electrocardiográficos compatibles con enfermedad arterial coronaria durante la prueba de esfuerzo, con criterios de riesgo intermedio en la puntuación de Duke y perfusión miocárdica SPECT normal. Fueron identificados a partir de la base de datos del laboratorio de cardiología nuclear del Instituto de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular de la ciudad de Posadas, Argentina. Resultados. Fueron elegibles 217 pacientes. El seguimiento fue de 3 1,5 años. La sobrevida libre de eventos (muerte,infarto de miocardio no fatal, angioplastia coronaria o cirugía de bypass de arteria coronaria) a uno, tres y cinco años fue significativamente menor (Log-rank test, p= 0,001) en el grupo con puntaje de Framingham alto o muy alto (77, 71y 59 %, respectivamente) que en el grupo de puntaje bajo o intermedio (89, 87 y 83 %). Tomando como referencia a los pacientes con riesgo bajo en el puntaje de Framingham, luego de ajustar por edad, sexo y puntaje de Duke, los pacientes categorizados en los estratos alto y muy alto riesgo del puntaje de Framingham presentaron una incidencia del evento combinado cercana al triple (hazard ratio [HR] 2,81; intervalo de confianza [IC] del 95 % 0,91 a 8,72; p= 0,07 y HR 3,61;IC 95 % 1,23 a 10,56; p= 0,019 respectivamente). Conclusiones. La estimación de riesgo con el puntaje de Framingham sería de ayuda en la estratificación pronóstica de los pacientes con ergometría positiva y SPECT normal. (AU)

Background. The prognostic value of positive exercise testing with normal SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging is not well established. Objectives. To document the incidence of infarction, death, and coronary revascularization in patients with a positive intermediate-risk exercise test and normal SPECT perfusion images and to explore the potential value of the Framingham Risk Score in the prognostic stratification of these patients. Methods. A retrospective cohort comprised patients who presented symptoms or electrocardiographic findings compatible with coronary artery disease during the stress test, with intermediate risk criteria in the Duke score and normal SPECT myocardial perfusion. They were identified from the database of the nuclear cardiology laboratory of the Instituto de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular of Posadas, Argentina. Results. 217 patients were eligible. Follow-up was 3 1.5 years. Event-free survival (death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, coronary angioplasty, or coronary artery bypass surgery) at one, three, and five years was significantly lower (Log-ranktest, p: 0.001) in the group with a score of Framingham high or very high (77, 71 and 59 %, respectively) than in the lowor intermediate score group (89, 87 and 83 %). Taking as reference the low-risk patients in the Framingham score, after adjusting for age, sex, and Duke score, the patients categorized in the high-risk and very high-risk strata showed about three times higher incidence of the combined event (hazard ratio [HR] 2.81; 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.91 to 8.72;p=0.07 and HR 3.61; 95 % CI 1.23 to 10.56; p=0.019 respectively). Conclusions. Risk estimation with the Framingham score would be helpful in the prognostic stratification of patients with positive exercise testing and normal SPECT. (AU)

Óbitos intra e extra-hospitalares por infarto agudo do miocárdio nas capitais brasileiras / In- and out-of-hospital deaths by acute myocardial infarction in brazilian state capitals

Resumo Fundamento: O infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) é a principal causa de óbito no Brasil e no mundo. Aproximadamente metade dos óbitos ocorrem fora do ambiente hospitalar. Objetivos: Analisar a distribuição, a evolução temporal e as características sociodemográficas (CSD) dos óbitos intra e extra-hospitalares por IAM nas capitais brasileiras e a sua relação com indicadores municipais de desenvolvimento (IMD). Métodos: Estudo ecológico com contagem anual dos óbitos por IAM nas 27 capitais brasileiras de 2007 a 2016, os quais foram divididos em dois grupos, intra-hospitalar (H) e extra-hospitalar (EH). Avaliou-se a evolução temporal das taxas de mortalidade em cada grupo e as diferenças das CSD. Modelos de regressão binominal negativa compararam temporalmente a contagem de óbitos em cada grupo com as seguintes variáveis: residir nas regiões Sul e Sudeste (S/SE), índice de desenvolvimento humano municipal (IDHM), índice de Gini e expectativa de anos de estudo (EAE). Considerou-se estatisticamente valores significativos de p < 0,05. Resultados: A taxa de mortalidade EH para o conjunto das capitais aumentou ao longo do tempo. Todas as CSD pesquisadas foram difententes entre os grupos (p < 0,001). No grupo EH prevaleceram os óbitos em homens, em pacientes ≥ 80 anos e em solteiros. O S/SE elevou a incidência de óbitos extra-hospitalares (IRR = 2,84; IC 95% = 1,67-4,85), enquanto o maior EAE registrou queda (IRR = 0,86; IC 95% = 0,77-0,97). Para o grupo H, o maior IDHM reduziu a incidência de óbitos (IRR = 0,44; IC 95% = 0,33-0,58), enquanto o maior EAE apresentou crescimento (IRR = 1,09; IC 95% = 1,03-1,15). Conclusão: Os óbitos intra e extra-hospitalares por IAM nas capitais apresentam diferenças sociodemográficas, incidência influenciada por IMD e progressivo aumento da ocorrência extra-hospitalar.

Abstract Background: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is the main cause of death in Brazil and the world. Approximately half of these deaths occur outside the hospital. Objectives: To analyze the distribution, temporal evolution, and sociodemographic characteristics (SDC) of in- and out-of-hospital deaths by AMI in Brazilian state capitals and their relationship with municipal development indicators (MDI). Methods: This is an ecological study of the number of deaths due to AMI reported annually by the 27 Brazilian state capitals from 2007 to 2016; these were divided into 2 groups: in-hospital (H) and out-of-hospital (OH). We evaluated the temporal evolution of mortality rates in each group and differences in SDC. Negative binomial regression models were used to compare the temporal evolution of the number of deaths in each group with the following variables: residing in the South/Southeast regions (S/SE), municipal human development index (MHDI), Gini coefficient, and expected years of schooling (EYS). We considered p-values<0.05 as statisticallysignificant. Results: The OH mortality rate increased with time for all state capitals. All studied SDC were different between groups (p<0.001). In the OH group, most deaths were of men and patients aged 80 years or older and not married. S/SE increased the incidence of OH deaths (incidence rate ratio [IRR]=2.84; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.67-4.85), while higher EYS reduced it (IRR=0.86; 95% CI=0.77-0.97). In the H group, higher MHDI reduced the incidence of deaths (IRR=0.44; 95% CI=0.33-0.58), while higher EYS increased it (IRR=1.09; 95% CI=1.03-1.15). Conclusions: In- and out-of-hospital deaths due to AMI in Brazilian state capitals were influenced by MDI, presented sociodemographic differences and a progressive increase in out-of-hospital occurrences.

Factores predictores de mortalidad hospitalaria en pacientes con infarto agudo del miocardio / Predictor factors of hospital mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction / Fatores preditivos de mortalidade hospitalar em pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio

RESUMEN Introducción: Las enfermedades cardiovasculares representan la principal causa de muerte de la población mundial. Objetivo: Identificar los factores predictores de mortalidad hospitalaria en pacientes con infarto agudo del miocardio en el Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto", durante el año 2017. Método: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo analítico de tipo caso y control, en una población conformada por 90 pacientes con infarto. En el grupo caso se encontraron todos los pacientes fallecidos durante el ingreso (n=30) que cumplieron los criterios de inclusión y exclusión, mientras que el grupo control estuvo constituido por 60 pacientes que egresaron vivos, seleccionados al azar mediante un muestreo aleatorio simple. Resultados: La media de la edad fue mayor en el grupo de los casos 74,06 respecto a los controles, (p=0,021). El 86,6 % de los casos no recibió trombolisis y el 6,6 % tuvo algún criterio de reperfusión pos-estreptoquinasa (p=0,00). El 36,6 % de los casos presentó choque cardiogénico (p=0,003), ruptura cardíaca (30 %) (p=0,03), y taponamiento (23,3 %) (p=0,01). Conclusiones: Los factores predictores de mortalidad hospitalaria en pacientes con infarto agudo del miocardio son: la edad avanzada, el tiempo prolongado entre el inicio de los síntomas y la asistencia médica, la existencia de las complicaciones, tales como el choque cardiogénico, el taponamiento cardíaco y la ruptura cardíaca, así como la no administración de tratamiento trombolítico y la ausencia de reperfusión.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death worldwide. Objective: To identify the predictor factors of hospital mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction at the Hospital General Docente "Dr. Agostinho Neto" in 2017. Method: A retrospective analytical case-control study was performed in a population of 90 patients with myocardial infarction. The case-cohort study included all patients who died during admission (n=30) and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, while the case-control study included 60 patients who were discharged alive, randomly selected by simple random sampling. Results: The mean age was higher in the case-cohort studied (74.06 years) than the case-control (p=0.021). The 86,6% of cases did not receive thrombolysis and 6.6% had some reperfusion criteria after the streptokinase (p=0.00). Cardiogenic shock (p=0.003), cardiac rupture (30%) (p=0.03), and cardiac tamponade (23.3%) (p=0.01) were present in 36.6% of cases. Conclusions: The predictor factors of hospital mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction are as follows: age, the prolonged time between the onset of symptoms and medical attention, presence of complications such as cardiogenic shock, cardiac tamponade and cardiac rupture, as well as the non-administration of thrombolytic treatment and the absence of reperfusion.

RESUMO Introdução: As doenças cardiovasculares representam a principal causa de morte da população mundial. Objetivo: Identificar os fatores preditivos de mortalidade hospitalar em pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio no Hospital Geral Universitário "Dr. Agostinho Neto", durante 2017. Método: Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo analítico caso-controle em uma população de 90 pacientes com infarto. No grupo caso, foram encontrados todos os pacientes que morreram na admissão (n=30) que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, enquanto o grupo controle foi composto por 60 pacientes que receberam alta com vida, selecionados aleatoriamente por amostragem aleatória simples. Resultados: A média de idade foi maior no grupo de casos 74,06 em relação aos controles (p=0,021). 86,6% dos casos não receberam trombólise e 6,6% tinham algum critério para reperfusão pós-estreptoquinase (p=0,00). 36,6% dos casos apresentaram choque cardiogênico (p=0,003), ruptura cardíaca (30%) (p=0,03) e tamponamento (23,3%) (p=0,01). Conclusões: Os fatores preditivos de mortalidade hospitalar em pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio são: idade avançada, longo tempo entre o início dos sintomas e o atendimento médico, a existência de complicações, como choque cardiogênico, tamponamento cardíaco e ruptura cardíaca, bem como a não administração de tratamento trombolítico e a ausência de reperfusão.

Giant cell arteritis: a diagnostic challenge in an older adult / Arterite de células gigantes: um desafio diagnóstico em um idoso

Giant cell arteritis is a large-vessel vasculitis usually seen in older adults. The inflammatory process results in systemic, ophthalmic, and neurological lesions. It is difficult to diagnose in older adults and may present as a medical emergency. Here, we report the case of an 83-year-old woman who presented with bitemporal headache, jaw claudication, glossodynia, failure to thrive, and amaurosis fugax. The findings supported the hypothesis of giant cell arteritis. Despite receiving treatment, the patient died of an acute myocardial infarction. Headache in older adults raises the possibility of giant cell arteritis, especially when combined with an ophthalmic emergency. Many symptoms indicate the condition, but the diagnosis may be challenging, especially for the generalist physician.

A arterite de células gigantes é uma vasculite de grandes vasos geralmente observada em adultos mais velhos. O processo inflamatório resulta em lesões sistêmicas, oftalmológicas e neurológicas. É de difícil diagnose em adultos mais velhos e pode se apresentar como uma emergência médica. Apresentamos o caso de uma mulher de 83 anos que apresentou cefaleia bitemporal, claudicação da mandíbula, glossodinia, incapacidade de prosperar e amaurose fugaz. Os resultados apoiaram a hipótese de arterite de células gigantes. Apesar de receber tratamento, o paciente morreu por infarto agudo do miocárdio. Dor de cabeça em idosos aumenta a possibilidade de arterite de células gigantes, especialmente quando combinada com uma emergência oftalmológica. Muitos sintomas indicam a condição, mas o diagnóstico pode ser desafiador, especialmente para o médico generalista.

Performance of a Hematological Scoring System in Predicting All-Cause Mortality in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction

Abstract Background: The presence of nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs) and increases in mean platelet volume (MPV) and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in peripheral circulation are associated with poorer prognosis in patients with acute coronary disease. Objective: We developed a scoring system for in-hospital surveillance of all-cause mortality using hematological laboratory parameters in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods: Patients admitted for AMI were recruited in this prospective study. Exclusion criteria were age younger than 18 years, glucocorticoid therapy, cancer or hematological diseases and readmissions. NRBCs, MPV and NLR were measured during hospitalization. The scoring system was developed in three steps: first, the magnitude of the association of clinical and laboratory parameters with in-hospital mortality was measured by odds ratio (OR), second, a multivariate logistic regression model was conducted with all variables significantly (p < 0.05) associated with the outcome, and third, a β-coefficient was estimated by multivariate logistic regression with hematological parameters with a p < 0.05. Results: A total of 466 patients (mean age were 64.2 ± 12.8 years, 61.6% male) were included in this study. A hematological scoring system ranging from 0 to 49, where higher values were associated with higher risk of in-hospital death. The best performance was registered for a cut-off value of 26 with sensitivity of 89.1% and specificity of 67.2%, positive predictive value of 26.8% (95% CI: 0.204 - 0.332) and negative predictive value of 97.9% (95% CI: 0.962 - 0.996). The area under the curve for the scoring system was 0.868 (95% CI: 0.818 - 0.918). Conclusions: Here we propose a hematological scoring system for surveillance tool during hospitalization of patients with acute myocardial infarction. Based on total blood count parameters, the instrument can evaluate inflammation and hypoxemia due to in-hospital complications and, consequently, predict in-hospital mortality.

Risk factor differences in acute myocardial infarction between young and older people: a systematic review and meta-analysis / Diferenças de fatores de risco no infarto agudo do miocárdio entre jovens e idosos: uma revisão sistemática e metanálise

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is less frequent in young individuals (≤ 45 years) than in older ones (> 45 years). Young AMI patients differ from older AMI patients in different ways. This article aims to assess the differences between young and older AMI patients. A search was made in the database of Cochrane Library, PubMed, BioMed Central and Embase, sence their establishment to December 2016, using the key words: risk factors, clinical characteristics, acute myocardial infarction and young. Meta-analysis was performed by using the Review Manager 5.3 software, pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the strength of differences. Eight studies with fairly quality, enrolling 13,358 patients in the analysis. Compared with older AMI patients, young AMI patients had a higher rate of smoking and obesity (OR = 2.71,95%CI:1.87 to 3.92; OR = 1.76,95%CI:1.13 to 2.74), higher rate of family history of coronary artery disease and alcohol consumption (OR = 2.36,95%CI:1.22 to 4.59; OR = 1.76,95%CI:1.04 to 2.97). Moreover, Young AMI patients had a lower rate of hypertension and diabetes mellitus (OR = 0.52,95%CI:0.37 to 0.73; OR = 0.58,95%CI:0.50 to 0.67). No significant differences were observed in hyperlipidemia, a subgroup data-analysis showed a higher total cholesterol, triglyceride lipase, and low-density lipoprotein levels (p < 0.05), and lower levels of high-density lipoprotein (p < 0.01) in young AMI patients. Smoking, family history of coronary artery disease, obesity and alcohol consumption are the most main risk factors of AMI among young individuals, and young AMI patients have better prognosis than older ones

Causes of hospital admissions and deaths among Brazilian elders between 2005 and 2015 / Causas de internación hospitalar y óbito en los adultos mayores brasileños entre 2005 y 2015 / Causas de internação hospitalar e óbito em idosos brasileiros entre 2005 e 2015

Abstract OBJECTIVE To analyze the ranking and percentage variation of the main causes of hospital admissions and death of Brazilian elders between 2005 and 2015, according to gender and age groups. METHOD Retrospective and temporal analysis study. The six main causes of hospitalization and death of elders were collected in DATASUS according to sex and age groups (60 ~ 79, ≥80) in 2017. RESULTS Heart Failure (2005) and pneumonia (2015) were the two main causes of hospital admissions in both sexes and age groups, except for the younger group. Acute Myocardial Infarction was the main cause of death in 2005 and 2015. The second cause in the overall ranking was the Stroke in 2005 and Pneumonia in 2015. CONCLUSION Circulatory and respiratory diseases were the main causes of hospital admissions and death among the elderly, highlighting the impotant increase in pneumonia as a cause of morbimortality.

Resumen OBJETIVO Analizar el ranking y la variación porcentual de las principales causas de internación y muerte de adultos mayores brasileños entre 2005 y 2015, de acuerdo con sexo y grupos de edad. MÉTODO Estudio retrospectivo, de análisis temporal. Las seis principales causas de internación y muerte de adultos mayores fueron recogidas en el DATASUS, según el sexo y grupos de edad (60 ~ 79; ≥80), en 2017. RESULTADOS La Insuficiencia Cardiaca (2005) y la neumonía (2015) fueron las dos las principales causas de hospitalizaciones en ambos sexos y grupos de edad, excepto en ancianos más jóvenes. El infarto agudo de miocardio fue la principal causa de muerte en 2005 y 2015. La segunda causa en el ranking general fue el accidente vascular cerebral en 2005 y la neumonía en 2015. CONCLUSIÓN Las enfermedades del aparato circulatorio y respiratorio fueron las principales causas de hospitalización y muerte entre los ancianos, destacándose el significativo aumento de la neumonía como causa de morbimortalidad.

Resumo OBJETIVO Analisar o ranking e a variação percentual das principais causas de internação e óbito de idosos brasileiros entre 2005 e 2015, de acordo com sexo e grupos etários. MÉTODO Estudo retrospectivo, de análise temporal. As seis principais causas de internação e óbito de idosos foram coletados no DATASUS, segundo o sexo e grupos etários (60~79; ≥80), em 2017. RESULTADOS A Insuficiência Cardíaca (2005) e a pneumonia (2015) foram as duas principais causas de hospitalizações em ambos os sexos e grupos etários, exceto em idosos mais jovens. O Infarto Agudo do Miocárdio foi a principal causa de óbito em 2005 e 2015. Já a segunda causa no ranking geral foi o Acidente Vascular Cerebral em 2005, e a Pneumonia em 2015. CONCLUSÃO As doenças do aparelho circulatório e respiratório foram as principais causas de hospitalização e óbito entre os idosos, destacando-se o significativo aumento da pneumonia como causa de morbimortalidade.

The Prognostic Value and Clinical Use of Myocardial Perfusion Scintigraphy in Asymptomatic Patients after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention / O Valor Prognóstico e o uso Clínico da Cintilografia de Perfusão Miocárdica em Pacientes Assintomáticos após Intervenção Coronariana Percutânea

Abstract Background: The role of myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS) in the follow-up of asymptomatic patients after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is not established. Objectives: To evaluate the prognostic value and clinical use of MPS in asymptomatic patients after PCI. Methods: Patients who underwent MPS consecutively between 2008 and 2012 after PCI were selected. The MPS were classified as normal and abnormal, the perfusion scores, summed stress score (SSS), and summed difference score (SDS) were calculated and converted into percentage of total perfusion defect and ischemic defect. The follow-up was undertaken through telephone interviews and consultation with the Mortality Information System. Primary endpoints were death, cardiovascular death, and nonfatal acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and secondary endpoint was revascularization. Logistic regression and COX method were used to identify the predictors of events, and the value of p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 647 patients were followed for 5.2 ± 1.6 years. 47% of MPS were normal, 30% were abnormal with ischemia, and 23% were abnormal without ischemia. There were 61 deaths, 27 being cardiovascular, 19 non-fatal AMI, and 139 revascularizations. The annual death rate was higher in those with abnormal perfusion without ischemia compared to the groups with ischemia and normal perfusion (3.3% × 2% × 1.2%, p = 0.021). The annual revascularization rate was 10.3% in the ischemia group, 3.7% in those with normal MPS, and 3% in those with abnormal MPS without ischemia. The independent predictors of mortality and revascularization were, respectively, total perfusion defect greater than 6%, and ischemic defect greater than 3%. Forty-two percent of the patients underwent MPS less than 2 years after PCI, and no significant differences were observed in relation to those who underwent it after that period. Conclusion: Although this information is not contemplated in guidelines, in this study MPS was able to predict events in asymptomatic after PCI patients, regardless of when they were performed.

Resumo Fundamentos: O papel da cintilografia de perfusão miocárdica (CPM) no seguimento de pacientes assintomáticos após intervenção coronariana percutânea (ICP) não está estabelecido. Objetivos. Avaliar o valor prognóstico e o uso clínico da CPM em pacientes assintomáticos após ICP. Métodos: Foram selecionados pacientes que realizaram CPM consecutivamente entre 2008 e 2012 após ICP. As CPM foram classificadas em normais e anormais, os escores de perfusão, escore somado do estresse (SSS) e escore somado da diferença (SDS) foram calculados e convertidos em porcentagem de defeito perfusional total e de defeito isquêmico. O seguimento foi por meio de entrevistas telefônicas e consulta ao Sistema de Informação de Mortalidade. Desfechos primários foram morte, morte cardiovascular e infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM) não fatal e desfecho secundário foi revascularização. Regressão logística e método de COX foram utilizados para identificar os preditores de eventos e o valor de p < 0,05 foi considerado estatisticamente significativo. Resultados: 647 pacientes foram acompanhados por 5,2 ± 1,6 anos. 47% das CPM foram normais, 30% anormais com isquemia e 23% anormais sem isquemia. Ocorreram 61 mortes, 27 cardiovasculares, 19 IAM não fatais e 139 revascularizações. A taxa anual de óbitos foi superior naqueles com perfusão anormal sem isquemia comparada aos grupos com isquemia e perfusão normal (3,3% × 2% × 1,2%, p = 0,021). A taxa anual de revascularização foi 10,3% no grupo com isquemia, 3,7% naqueles com CPM normal e 3% naqueles com CPM anormal sem isquemia. Foram preditores independentes de mortalidade e revascularização, respectivamente, defeito perfusional total maior que 6% e defeito isquêmico maior que 3%. Quarenta e dois por cento dos pacientes realizaram CPM menos de 2 anos após ICP e não foram observadas diferenças relevantes em relação aos que realizaram após esse período. Conclusão: Embora esta informação não esteja contemplada em diretrizes, neste estudo a CPM foi capaz de predizer eventos em pacientes assintomáticos após ICP, independente do momento de realização.

Gerenciamento do protocolo de dor torácica no setor de emergência / Management of the toracic pain protocol in the emergency department

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a adesão dos plantonistas da emergência na aplicação de um protocolo de dor torácica e o impacto no índice de mortalidade por infarto agudo do miocárdio. MÉ- TODOS: Estudo retrospectivo, realizado de maio de 2016 até maio de 2017. Os dados foram obtidos por relatórios do sistema TASY e mostram todas as admissões por queixa de dor torácica, segundo a CID10. Estas admissões foram tabuladas em planilha Excel. RESULTADOS: Dos 1.657 pacientes com entrada na emergência clínica por queixa de dor torácica, 471 apresentavam síndrome coronariana. Na amostra, 67,39% dos pacientes eram do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 59,72 anos. Destes, 92 (19,96%) foram diagnosticados com infarto agudo do miocárdio, 30 (28,26%) apresentavam supradesnivelamento do segmento ST e 62 (71,74%) foram diagnosticados como infarto agudo do miocárdio sem supradesnivelamento do segmento ST. Todos os casos que necessitaram de angioplastia tiveram o procedimento executado dentro do prazo estabelecido pelas diretrizes internacionais. Receberam aspirina profilática 469 (99,57%) pacientes. A mortalidade dos pacientes internados com infarto agudo do miocárdio foi de 2,17%. CONCLUSÃO: O gerenciamento deste protocolo permite mapear o processo, bem como verificar eficácia, pontos fortes e fracos, e os riscos.(AU)

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the adherence of emergency doctors to the application of the chest pain protocol, and the impact on mortality rate from acute myocardial infarction. METHODS: This is a retrospective study performed from May 2016 to May 2017. Data were obtained from TASY reports and show all admissions for chest pain complaints (ICD-10). These admissions were tabulated in Excel spreadsheet. RESULTS: Of the 1.657 patients admitted to the clinical emergency due to a complaint of chest pain, 471 had a coronary syndrome. In the sample, 67.39% of patients were male, with a mean age of 59.72 years. Of these, 92 (19.96%) were diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction, 30 (28.26%) presented ST segment elevation, and 62 (71.74%) were diagnosed as acute myocardial infarction without ST segment elevation. All cases requiring angioplasty had the procedure performed within the period established by the international guidelines. Of the patients, 469 (99.57%) received prophylactic aspirin. The mortality of patients hospitalized with acute myocardial infarction was 2.17%. CONCLUSION: The management of this protocol allows mapping the process, checking efficacy, strengths, weaknesses, and risks.(AU)

Incidence and characteristics angiographic of patients with acute myocardial / Incidência e características angiográficas de pacientes com doença miocárdica aguda

Background: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is defined as the death of cardiomyocytes due to prolonged ischemia, caused by thrombosis and / or vasospasm on an atherosclerotic plaque. Objective: To determine the incidence of patients with myocardial infarction undergoing primary angioplasty; characterize the anthropometric variables and identify the risk factors in this population. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, observational, retrospective study in which we collected secondary data from medical records of a hospital in a city in the state of São Paulo, where the largest number of interventions is via Public Health System, patients with a diagnosis of Myocardial Infarction, undergoing primary coronary angioplasty, from January 2011 to December 2013. Results: The total sample consisted of 437 subjects, 282 male and 155 female. In this study, there was predominance of myocardial infarction in the anterior descending artery ADA (45.51%), followed by right coronary artery RCA (38.46%), in carrying out the rescue angioplasty and stent implantation in 96.62% of cases. There was a predominance of high blood pressure as risk factors for 73.71%, followed by smoking with 41.66% of the sample. Conclusion: According to the present study data, it appears a higher prevalence of infarction occurred in the ADA, with individuals performing the rescue angioplasty procedure and the placement of the stent, and a growing incidence of drug stent placement. We observed a high incidence of risk factors, prevailing hypertension

Mortalidade por infarto agudo do miocárdio no Brasil e suas regiões geográficas: análise do efeito da idade-período-coorte / Mortality due to acute myocardial infarction in Brazil and its geographical regions: analyzing the effect of age-period-cohort

Resumo Objetivou-se analisar o efeito da idade-período e coorte (APC) de nascimento na mortalidade por infarto agudo do miocárdio no Brasil e regiões geográficas, segundo sexo, no período de 1980 a 2009. Os dados foram extraídos do Sistema de Informação Sobre Mortalidade e foram corrigidos e ajustados, por meio da redistribuição proporcional dos registros com sexo e idade ignorados, causas mal definidas, e também se realizou a correção do sub-registro de morte. O APC foi calculado pelo modelo de regressão de Poisson, utilizando funções estimáveis. A análise APC nos dois sexos e em todas as regiões do país evidenciou progressiva redução no risco de morte nas coortes de nascimento a partir da década de 1940, exceto na região nordeste. Nessa região, verificou-se aumento progressivo do risco de morte a partir da década de 1940 para ambos os sexos, até a década de 1950 para os homens e a década de 1960 para as mulheres. Concluiu-se que as diferenças observadas no risco de morte nas regiões brasileiras é fruto das desigualdades socioeconômicas e de acesso aos serviços de saúde existente no território brasileiro, favorecendo a mortalidade precoce por essa causa sobretudo em localidades mais pobres.

Abstract The objective of this study was to analyze the effect of age-period and cohort (APC) of birth on mortality for acute myocardial infarction in Brazil and its geographic regions, according to sex in the period from 1980 to 2009. The data was extracted from the Mortality Information System and was corrected and adjusted by means of proportional redistribution of records with sex and age ignored, ill-defined causes, and corrections were made based on the death sub-register. The APC was calculated using the Poisson regression model with estimable functions. The APC analysis on both sexes and in all regions of the country showed gradual reductions in the risk of death in birth cohorts from the decade of the 1940s, except in the Northeast. In this region, there have been progressive increases in the risk of death from the late 1940s for both sexes. This was up until the 1950s for men and the 1960s for women. It was concluded that the observed differences in the risk of death in Brazilian regions is the result of socio-economic inequalities and poor access to health services within the Brazilian territory, favoring early mortality for this cause especially in poorer areas.

Techniques, timing & prognosis of post infarct ventricular septal repair: a re-look at old dogmas

Abstract Objective: The study aimed to identify the factors affecting the prognosis of post myocardial infarction (MI) ventricular septal rupture (VSR) and to develop a protocol for its management. Methods: This was a single center, retrospective-prospective study (2009-2014), involving 55 patients with post MI VSR. The strengths of association between risk factors and prognosis were assessed using multivariate logistic regression analysis. The UNM Post MI VSR management and prognosis scoring systems (UPMS & UPPS) were developed. Results: Thirty-day mortality was 52.5% (35% in the last 3 years). Twenty-eight (70%) patients underwent concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting. Residual ventricular septal defect was found in 3 (7.5%) patients. The multivariate analysis showed low mean blood pressure with intra-aortic balloon pump (OR 11.43, P=0.001), higher EuroSCORE II (OR 7.47, P=0.006), higher Killip class (OR 27.95, P=0.00), and shorter intervals between MI and VSR (OR 7.90, P=0.005) as well as VSR and Surgery (OR 5.76, P=0.016) to be strong predictors of mortality. Concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting (P=0.17) and location (P=0.25) of VSR did not affect the outcome. Mean follow-up was 635.8±472.5 days and 17 out of 19 discharged patients were in NYHA class I-II. Conclusion: The UNM Post-MI VSR Scoring Systems (UPMS & UPPS) help in management and prognosis, respectively. They divide patients into 3 groups: 1) Immediate Surgery - Patients with scores of <25 require immediate surgery, preferably with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support, and have poor prognosis; 2) Those with scores of 25-75 should be managed with "Optimal Delay" and they have intermediate outcomes; 3) Patients with scores of >75 can undergo Elective Repair and they are likely to have good outcomes.

Association between Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Myocardial Infarction: A Systematic Review / Associação entre Apneia Obstrutiva do Sono e Infarto do Miocárdio: Uma Revisão Sistemática

Abstract Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been associated to cardiovascular risk factors. However, the association between OSA and cardiovascular disease is still controversial. The objective of the present study was to verify the association between OSA and myocardial infarction (MI). This is a systematic review of the literature performed through electronic data sources MEDLINE/PubMed, PubMed Central, Web of Science and BVS -Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (Virtual Health Library). The descriptors used were: 'obstructive sleep apnea' AND 'polysomnography' AND 'myocardial infarction' AND 'adults NOT 'treatment.' The present work analysed three prospective studies, selected from 142 articles. The studies followed a total sample of 5,067 OSA patients, mostly composed by male participants. All patients underwent night polysomnography, and all studies found an association between OSA and fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular outcomes. Thus, we were able to observe that 644 (12.7%) of the 5,067 patients suffered MI or stroke, or required a revascularization procedure, and 25.6% of these cardiovascular events were fatal. MI was responsible for 29.5% of all 644 analysed outcomes. There is an association between OSA and MI, in male patients, and apnea and hypopnea index (AHI) are the most reliable markers.

Resumo A apneia obstrutiva do sono (AOS) tem sido associada a fatores de risco cardiovascular, porém a relação entre a AOS e doença cardiovascular ainda é controversa. O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a associação entre AOS e infarto do miocárdio (IM). Revisão sistemática de literatura por meio das fontes de dados eletrônicas MEDLINE/PubMed, PubMed Central, Web of Science e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS). Os descritores utilizados foram: "obstructive sleep apnea" AND "polysomnography" AND "myocardial infarction" AND "adults" NOT "treatment".O presente trabalho analisou três estudos prospectivos, selecionados dentre 142 artigos encontrados. Os estudos acompanharam uma amostra total de 5.067 pacientes diagnosticados com AOS, composta majoritariamente por participantes do sexo masculino. Todos os pacientes realizaram polissonografia noturna, e todas as pesquisas encontraram associação entre AOS e desfechos cardiovasculares fatais e não fatais. Assim, foi possível observar que 644 (12,7%) dos 5.067 pacientes sofreram IM ou acidente vascular cerebral, ou precisaram de procedimento de revascularização, sendo que 25,6% desses eventos cardiovasculares foram fatais. O IM foi responsável por 29,5% do total de 644 desfechos analisados. Existe associação entre AOS e IM, no sexo masculino, sendo o índice de apneia e hipopneia (IAH) um dos marcadores mais fidedignos.

Mortality reduction with use of oral beta-blockers in patients with acute coronary syndrome

OBJECTIVES: Recent studies have revealed a relationship between beta-blocker use and worse prognosis in acute coronary syndrome, mainly due to a higher incidence of cardiogenic shock. However, the relevance of this relationship in the reperfusion era is unknown. The aim of this study was to analyze the outcomes of patients with acute coronary syndrome that started oral beta-blockers within the first 24 hours of hospital admission (group I) compared to patients who did not use oral beta-blockers in this timeframe (group II). METHODS: This was an observational, retrospective and multicentric study with 2,553 patients (2,212 in group I and 341 in group II). Data regarding demographic characteristics, coronary treatment and medication use in the hospital were obtained. The primary endpoint was in-hospital all-cause mortality. The groups were compared by ANOVA and the chi-square test. Multivariate analysis was conducted by logistic regression and results were considered significant when p<0.05. RESULTS: Significant differences were observed between the groups in the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, enoxaparin, and statins; creatinine levels; ejection fraction; tabagism; age; and previous coronary artery bypass graft. Significant differences were also observed between the groups in mortality (2.67% vs 9.09%, OR=0.35, p=0.02) and major adverse cardiovascular events (11% vs 29.5%, OR=4.55, p=0.02). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with acute coronary syndrome who underwent early intervention with oral beta-blockers during the first 24 hours of hospital admission had a lower in-hospital death rate and experienced fewer major adverse cardiovascular events with no increase in cardiogenic shock or sustained ventricular arrhythmias compared to patients who did not receive oral beta-blockers within this timeframe.

Desempeño hospitalario en un sistema de salud segmentado y desigual: Chile 2001-2010 / Hospital performance in a segmented and unequal health system: Chile 2001-2010

Resumen: Objetivo: Analizar las diferencias en los resultados en salud según condiciones observadas de los hospitales, en particular su tipo de propiedad: hospitales públicos, privados sin fines de lucro (PSL) y privados con fines de lucro (PCL). Material y métodos: Se utilizó información de egresos hospitalarios en Chile entre 2001 y 2010 con un total de 16 205 314 altas de 20 hospitales públicos, 6 de PSL y 15 de PCL. Se seleccionó una muestra de pacientes con infarto al miocardio (IAM) y accidente cerebrovascular (ACV). Se estimó una regresión probit utilizando como variable dependiente la mortalidad intrahospitalaria y controlando por variables como estado de salud, nivel socioeconómico y características del hospital. Resultados: Los hospitales privados tienen menor riesgo de mortalidad intrahospitalaria: 1.3% en PSL y 0.7% en PCL, mientras que en los hospitales públicos el riesgo llega a 3.5%. Conclusiones: Este análisis muestra las inequidades que el sector público tiene respecto de los demás sectores.

Abstract: Objective: To analyze the differences in health outcomes by hospital characteristics, focusing on ownership: public, private not-for-profit (PNFP) and private for-profit (PFP). Materials and methods: We used a discharged patient dataset of Chilean hospitals for the period 2001-2010 with a total of 16 205 314 discharges in 20 public, six PNFP and 15 PFP hospitals.We selected a subsample of two medical conditions: myocardial infarction and stroke.We used probit regression analyses with mortality rates as dependent variable, ownership status as the key explanatory variable, and control variables which included patients' health status and socioeconomic level, and hospital characteristics. Results: Private hospitals showed lower risk of death relative to public hospitals: 1.3% in PNFP, 0.7% in PFP and 3.5% in public hospitals. Conclusions: The analysis shows the inequities that exist between public hospitals and the private sector.

Infarto Agudo do Miocárdio na Prática Clínica Diária / Myocardial Infarction in the Daily Practice

Fundamentos: As recomendações das diretrizes para o tratamento de pacientes com infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMCSST) são baseados principalmente em dados de estudos clínicos randomizados. Objetivos: Procuramos avaliar as tendências temporais das características, do tratamento e da evolução de pacientes com IAMCSST que representassem a prática clínica diária. Métodos: Estudo de coorte prospectivo incluindo todos os pacientes com IAMCSST que procuraram nosso serviço no período de 2010 a 2013. Foram avaliados os aspectos clínicos, angiográficos, laboratoriais e de tratamento, além dos eventos cardiovasculares maiores (ECVM) em 30 dias. Resultados: O escore de risco TIMI médio e a maioria das características clínicas e angiográficas iniciais dos 1973 pacientes incluídos se mantiveram estáveis de 2010 a 2013, com exceção de diabetes mellitus (cuja frequência aumentou de 21% para 28%; p < 0,01). Foi realizada ICP primária em 95% dos casos, e o tempo porta-balão diminuiu de 1,27 para 1,11 horas (p < 0,01). Em relação ao tratamento, houve aumento significativo do uso de clopidrogrel 600mg em bolus (de 75% em 2010 para 93% em 2013; p < 0,001), no uso de anticoagulação pré-cateterização (50% versus 91%; p<0,001), e de acesso radial na ICPp (9% versus 66%; p < 0,001); houve, ainda, um menor uso de beta-bloqueadores (72% versus 63%; p < 0,001). Houve redução de ECVM de 17,4% para 9,5% (p < 0,05). Foram fatores preditivos independentes de ECVM as características iniciais, o acesso radial, o uso de beta-bloqueadores e de anticoagulação pré-cateterização. Conclusões: As características iniciais de pacientes com IAMCSST mantiveram-se estáveis durante um período de quatro anos, com exceção de diabetes mellitus, cuja frequência aumentou significativamente. Houve mudanças significativas no tratamento clínico e intervencionista e diminuição significativa nos desfechos cardiovasculares adversos em curto prazo. Os preditores de melhor evolução foram as características iniciais, uso de betabloqueadores, de anticoagulação pré-cateterização e acesso radial

Background: Guideline recommendations for the management of patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) are mainly based on data from randomized clinical trials. Objectives: We sought to assess temporal trends in characteristics, treatment and outcomes of patients with STEMI representative of the daily practice. Methods: Prospective cohort study including all patients with STEMI who presented at our institution from 2010 to 2013. Clinical, angiographic, laboratory, treatment aspects and 30-day major cardiovascular events (MACEs) were assessed and compared over the years. Results: The mean TIMI risk score, and most baseline clinical and angiographic characteristics of the 1973 patients included remained stable from 2010 to 2013, except for diabetes mellitus (whose frequency increased from 21% to 28%; p < 0.01). Primary PCI was performed in 95% of cases, and the door-to-balloon time decreased from 1.27 to 1.11 hours (p < 0.01). Regarding treatment, there were significant increases in the use of 600 mg boluses of clopidogrel (75% in 2010 vs 93% in 2013; p < 0.001), upstream anticoagulant (50% vs 91%; p < 0.001) and the radial approach in pPCI (9% vs 66%; p < 0.001), and lower use of beta-blockers (72% vs 63%; p < 0.001). MACE decreased from 17.4% to 9.5% (p < 0.05). Independent predictors of MACE were baseline characteristics, the radial approach, and use of beta-blockers and upstream anticoagulant. Conclusions: The baseline characteristics of patients with STEMI remained stable over a four-year period, except for the incidence of diabetes mellitus, which increased significantly. Medical and interventional treatments significantly changed, and short-term adverse cardiovascular outcomes significantly decreased. Predictors of better outcomes were baseline characteristics, use of beta-blockers and upstream anticoagulant, and the radial approach

Caracterização dos padrões de variação dos cuidados de saúde a partir dos gastos com internações por infarto agudo do miocárdio no Sistema Único de Saúde / Characterization of the variation of health care taking into account the costs of hospital admissions for acute myocardial infarction in Brazilian Unified Health System

RESUMO: Introdução: O cenário epidemiológico mundial revela um crescimento das doenças cardiovasculares, no qual se destaca o infarto agudo do miocárdio (IAM), devido à sua grande magnitude e severidade. No Brasil, doenças coronarianas representam já cerca de 5% dos gastos com internação hospitalar. Objetivo: Caracterizar as internações dos pacientes do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) por IAM por meio da identificação de agrupamentos sugeridos por uma análise de agrupamentos tradicional e por uma análise de correspondência múltipla (ACM). Métodos: Registros do Sistema de Internações Hospitalares (SIH/SUS) com diagnóstico principal de IAM, no Estado do Rio de Janeiro, 2002, foram selecionados e posteriormente relacionados aos do Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade (SIM/SUS). A seguir, uma ACM e uma métrica chamada distância de tolerância foram utilizadas para a identificação de clusters , sendo a variável de interesse "gastos com internação" classificada em duas categorias (acima e abaixo de R$ 905,00). Resultados: Foi possível associar "maiores gastos" com "utilização de Centro de Tratamento Intensivo (CTI)" e com "gravidade moderada do caso", e "menores gastos" com "gravidade leve" e "não utilização de CTI". Por outro lado, casos de alta gravidade apresentaram-se isolados, sem associação com CTI ou outras variáveis. Também foi detectada associação entre a categoria "menores gastos" e as categorias: "não deslocamento do paciente", "sexo feminino", "idade entre 56 e 75 anos", "óbito até 30 dias" e "óbito até 1 ano". Conclusão: o aspecto isolado dos casos de maior gravidade e a associação entre "óbitos" e "menores gastos" sugere que os recursos tecnológicos disponíveis durante a internação por IAM não estão sendo adequadamente empregados.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: The global epidemiologic scenario indicates an increase in cardiovascular disease rates, with special emphasis on acute myocardial infarction (AMI), owing to its large magnitude and severity. In Brazil, coronary diseases now account for about 5% of hospital admission expenditures. Objective: To characterize the admissions in the Brazilian Unified Health System of patients with AMI, by identifying clusters suggested by a traditional cluster analysis and by a multiple correspondence analysis (MCA). Methods: The records of the Hospital Information System/Brazilian Unified Health System with a primary diagnosis of AMI in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 2002, were selected and subsequently related to the records of the Mortality Information System. Next, an MCA and a metric called the tolerance distance were used for cluster identification. The variable of interest was "hospital expenditures", classified into two categories (above and below BRL 905). Results: "Higher costs" were associated with "use of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU)" and "moderate severity of the case" and "lower costs" with "low severity" and "nonuse of the ICU". On the other hand, high severity cases, with no apparent association with "use of ICU" or other categories. Other associations identified were "lower costs" and "no displacement of the patient," "female," "age between 56 and 75 years," "death within 30 days," and "death within 1 year". Conclusions: The nonclustered characteristic of the most serious cases and the association between "deaths" and "lower costs" suggests that the technological resources available during hospitalization for AMI are not being properly used.

Validação do Escore TIMI de Risco para Infarto Agudo com Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST / Validation of TIMI Risk Score for STEMI

Fundamento:O escore TIMI de risco para infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento de ST (IAM CSST) é uma ferramenta importante para estratificar o risco de morte no IAM, porém, ainda não está validado em nosso meio. Objetivos: Validar o escore TIMI de risco para pacientes com IAM CSST como preditor de óbito intra-hospitalar e identificar outros preditores independentes de mortalidade intra-hospitalar não descritos neste escore. Métodos: Coorte retrospectiva com 938 pacientes com diagnóstico de IAM CSST pertencentes ao banco de dados de duas instituições de atendimento cardiológico de referência no Rio Grande do Sul. As variáveis clínicas foram testadas por análise univariada e análise multivariada por regressão logística. A área sob a curva (ASC) foi aplicada para definir sensibilidade, especificidade e poder discriminatório do escore. Um escore de risco, intitulado "Escore TIMI de Risco Modificado", foi criado na tentativa de aumentar o poder discriminatório. Resultados: A mortalidade intra-hospitalar foi de 8,6%. O escore TIMI de risco para IAM CSST demonstrou poder discriminatório de 0,82, sem identificar novos preditores de mortalidade. Peso < 67 Kg, infarto anterior, bloqueio de ramo esquerdo e hipertensão não apresentaram significância estatística na análise multivariada. Um escore TIMI modificado que excluiu essas variáveis teve poder discriminatório de 0,84. Conclusão: O escore TIMI de risco para IAM CSST apresentou bom poder discriminatório como preditor de óbito intra-hospitalar. Não foram encontrados novos preditores de mortalidade hospitalar. O escore TIMI modificado não apresentou um poder discriminatório superior ao do escore TIMI

Background: TIMI risk score for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is an important tool to assess mortality risk; however, it has not yet been validated in Brazil. Objectives: To validate the TIMI risk score for STEMI patients as a predictor of in-hospital mortality and to identify new independent predictors of in-hospital mortality not described by this score. A new risk score called "Modified TIMI Risk Score" was created in an attempt to increase its discriminatory power. Methods: Retrospective cohort study evaluating 983 patients with STEMI, obtained from a database of two leading cardiology institutions in Rio Grande do Sul. Clinical variables described for the TIMI risk score were tested using univariate analysis and multivariate analysis by logistic regression. Area under curve (AUC) was used to define sensitivity, specificity and discriminatory power of the score. Non-significant variables on multivariate analysis were excluded, and the discriminatory power of the modified TIMI risk score was calculated. Results: In-hospital mortality was 8.6%. The TIMI risk score for STEMI showed a discriminatory power of 0.82, with no identification of new predictors of mortality. In the multivariate analysis, weight < 67 Kg, previous infarction, left bundle branch block and hypertension did not show statistical significance. A modified TIMI score that excluded these variables had discriminatory power of 0.84. Conclusion: TIMI risk score for STEMI presented good discriminatory power as a predictor of in-hospital mortality. No new predictors of in-hospital mortality were found. The modified TIMI score did not present a discriminatory power that was superior to the TIMI score

Eletrocardiograma no Infarto Agudo do Miocárdio: O que Esperar? / Electrocardiogram in Acute Myocardial Infarction: What to Expect?

Fundamentos: As doenças cardiovasculares são a principal causa de morte. O eletrocardiograma (ECG) é uma ferramenta acessível e de grande utilidade na avaliação inicial das síndromes coronarianas agudas (SCA). Objetivo: Identificar e correlacionar as alterações eletrocardiográficas em diferentes derivações com a localização do trombo intracoronariano na artéria culpada pelo evento coronariano. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo e observacional realizado com 179 pacientes portadores de SCA. Os dados foram analisados considerando três grupos de diagnóstico: angina instável (n = 31), IAM sem supradesnível do segmento ST (n = 86) e IAM com supradesnível do segmento ST de parede anterior (n = 34) e parede inferior (n = 28). Os dados eletrocardiográficos, de angiografia coronariana e de ecocardiografia transtorácica foram analisados e comparados nos três grupos. Resultados: A sensibilidade e especificidade do ECG para detectar a artéria culpada foram 70,0% e 79,1%, respectivamente. Os valores preditivos positivos e negativos para a localização por ECG do segmento proximal da artéria descendente anterior (DA) foram 70,6% e 66,7%, respectivamente. Em relação ao segmento distal da DA, os valores preditivos positivos e negativos foram 100,0% e 28,0%, respectivamente. Através da análise do ECG foi possível identificar a artéria coronária direita (CD) como sendo a artéria culpada em 88,9% dos casos, com valores preditivos positivos e negativos de 90,0% e 14,3%, respectivamente. Conclusão: O ECG é um método diagnóstico imprescindível nas SCA, apesar de não localizar a artéria culpada com grande acurácia

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death. The electrocardiogram (ECG) is an accessible and useful tool in the initial evaluation of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Objective: To identify and correlate electrocardiographic changes in different leads with the location of the intracoronary thrombus in the artery involved in the coronary event. Methods: Retrospective and observational study conducted with 179 patients with ACS. The data were analyzed considering three diagnostic groups: unstable angina (n = 31), non-ST­elevation myocardial infarction (n = 86), and ST-elevation myocardial infarction of the anterior n = 34) and inferior (n = 28) walls. Data obtained from ECG, coronary angiography, and transthoracic echocardiogram tests were analyzed and compared among the three groups.Results: The sensitivity and specific ity of the ECG in detecting the culprit coronary artery were 70.0% and 79.1%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values for ECG location of the proximal segment of the left anterior descending (LAD) artery were 70.6% and 66.7%, respectively. Regarding the distal segment of the LAD, the positive and negative predictive values were 100.0% and 28.0%, respectively. With ECG analysis, we were able to identify the right coronary (RC) artery as the culprit artery in 88.9% of the cases, with positive and negative predictive values of 90.0% and 14.3%, respectively. Conclusion: The ECG is an indispensable diagnostic method in ACS, even though it fails to locate the culprit arter y accurately