30-day Mortality Research Articles

Patient characteristics and clinical outcome in acute myocardial infarction related cardiogenic shock according to vascular access site for PCI

Abstract Background / Introduction The optimal vascular access site for percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock (CS) remains uncertain. While observational data favor trans-radial access (TRA) due to lower complication rates and mortality, trans-femoral (TFA) PCI offers advantages such as shorter access and procedure times, along with quicker escalation to mechanical circulatory support (MCS). Purpose In this study, we aimed to investigate factors associated with a transfemoral approach and compare mortality rates between TRA and TFA in AMI-CS patients undergoing PCI. Methods Data from a nationwide registry of AMI-CS patients undergoing PCI (2017-2021) were analyzed. We compared patient demographics, procedural details, and outcomes between TRA and TFA groups. Logistic regression identified access site factors and radial-to-femoral cross-over predictors. Propensity score matched (PSM) analysis examined the impact of access site on mortality. Results Of 1562 patients, 45% underwent TRA PCI, with an increasing trend over time. TFA patients were more often female, had a history of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), lower blood pressure, higher resuscitation and intubation rates, and elevated lactate levels. After PSM, 30-day mortality was lower in TRA (33% vs. 46%, p <0.001). Predictors for cross-over included left coronary artery interventions, multivessel PCI, and MCS initiation. Conclusion Significant differences exist between TRA and TFA PCI in AMI-CS. TFA was more common in patients with worse hemodynamics and was associated with higher 30-day mortality compared to TRA. TRA should be the default access, given its feasibility and favorable outcomes in many patients.Baseline characteristicsPredictors for femoral access

Intensive blood pressure lowering after endovascular thrombectomy in acute ischaemic stroke: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract Background Endovascular thrombectomy is an effective treatment in those with acute ischemic stroke. However, following successful reperfusion there are still many uncertainties as to the factors which influence patient outcome. Effective blood pressure management in this cohort has been elicited as one of these factors, with worse outcomes seen at both the high and low extremes. Purpose Pinpointing an optimal systolic blood pressure target after this procedure is still uncertain. We aimed to perform an updated meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intensive blood pressure management as compared to conventional blood pressure management in this patient population. Methods We searched various electronic databases, including Embase, MEDLINE (via PubMed), and CENTRAL, to retrieve relevant RCTs evaluating a strategy of intensive blood pressure management after endovascular thrombectomy compared to conventional management. We pooled risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for dichotomous outcomes and mean difference (MD) with 95% CI for continuous outcomes, using RevMan 5.4. Results The meta-analysis included 4 RCTs with a total of 1560 patients. According to the analysis, intensive blood pressure management was associated with a statistically significant decrease in the number of patients showing functional independence (modified Rankin scale mRS score=0-2) at 90 days (RR 0.81; CI = 0.72-0.91; I2 = 12%). Regarding 90-day mortality, the pooled results from three RCTs showed no statistically significant difference between the intensive blood pressure management group and the conventional blood pressure management group (RR 1.17; CI = 0.90-1.52; I2 = 0%). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the incidence of intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) (RR 1.05; CI = 0.90-1.23; I2 = 0%) and the incidence of symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage (sICH) (RR 1.10; CI = 0.76-1.60; I2 = 0%). Conclusion The meta-analysis showed no benefit of intensive lowering of blood pressure in terms of functional independence at 90 days, mortality rates, and incidence of ICH. Future large-scale trials should focus on other interventions to improve prognosis in these patients.Figure 1Figure 2

Thrombolysis versus primary percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with suspected ST-elevation myocardial infarction - a SWEDEHEART observational study

Abstract Background Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the recommended reperfusion strategy in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients provided time to reperfusion is ≤120 minutes. In patients presenting early with an estimated time to reperfusion >120 minutes, thrombolytic therapy should be considered according to European Society of Cardiology guidelines. However, there is a lack of contemporary data on patients treated with thrombolysis. Aims Our aim was to determine how often thrombolysis was administered in STEMI patients having an estimated time to reperfusion of >120 minutes and to study outcome differences between patients treated with thrombolysis compared to those treated with primary PCI. Methods We calculated transport times to nearest primary PCI centre using three-digit zip codes for each patient enrolled in the SWEDEHEART registry from 2008–2021 in the five geographic areas in Sweden routinely using thrombolysis and included those with >120 min estimated transportation time to reperfusion time. Patients without ST-elevations on prehospital ECG and ongoing chest pain as well as patients with left bundle branch block, pacemaker rhythm and patients with contraindications to thrombolysis were excluded. Patients were grouped by received reperfusion therapy with prehospital thrombolysis or no prehospital thrombolysis and studied with regard to 1- and 3-year mortality using Kaplan-Meier failure estimates and Cox regression adjusted for difference in baseline characteristics. Results A total of 1,840 patients were included of whom 1,381 (75.1%) received thrombolysis. A final diagnosis of STEMI was observed in 92.6% of patients receiving thrombolysis and 80.2% of patients treated with primary PCI. The median transport time estimate to a PCI centre was 153 minutes in both groups. Median time from onset of symptoms to reperfusion therapy was 131 minutes for the thrombolysis group and 255 minutes for the PCI group. Patients who received thrombolysis were on average 2 years younger and had fewer comorbidities such as diabetes, cancer and heart failure. Among patients treated with thrombolysis, a total of 42.7% of patients underwent rescue PCI. There was no significant difference in 365-day mortality (6.7% vs 11.8%, adjusted HR 0.84, 95% CI: 0.59-1.19, p=0.33) or 3-year mortality rates (10.3% vs 16.6%, adjusted HR 0.89, 95% CI: 0.66-1.19, p=0.44) between patients treated with thrombolysis and primary PCI groups. Conclusions In this population-based study of patients where primary PCI cannot be expeditiously used, we observed a commendable adherence rate of 75% to the ESC guidelines for thrombolysis treatment. Moreover, our findings revealed that the administration of thrombolysis was not associated with any discernible benefits or harm.Unadjusted and adjusted Cox-modelKaplan-Meier survival analysis

Impact of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation with ECPELLA on improvement of short-term survival in patients with refractory cardiac arrest

Abstract Background Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (E-CPR) is considered for cardiac arrest (CA) patients when conventional CPR is ineffective. While veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) robustly maintains systemic perfusion, it also increases left ventricular (LV) afterload. Recently, the transcatheter LV assist device Impella has been introduced, and the potential benefits of its combined use with VA-ECMO (ECPELLA) are anticipated. However, the utility and effective management of ECPELLA remain unclear. Purpose This single-site cohort study aimed to assess the impact of ECPELLA compared to VA-ECMO with or without intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) in patients with refractory CA who received E-CPR. Methods We retrospectively reviewed 207 consecutive patients who underwent E-CPR between January 2012 and September 2023 at our institute. The patients were divided into two groups, ECEPLLA (n = 65) and VA-ECMO with or without IABP (n = 141). A propensity score analysis was conducted, utilizing 1:1 score matching based on variables including age, the rate of male gender, acute coronary syndrome, out-of-hospital CA (OHCA), in-hospital CA, shockable rhythm, and the time from collapse to VA-ECMO initiation, known as low flow time (LFT). We evaluated 180-day survival rates, hemodynamic data, and safety profiles. Result After propensity score matching, 57 ECPELLA patients and 57 VA-ECMO patients were included for analysis. No significant differences in the adjusted factors and comorbidities were found between the two groups. In the VA-ECMO group, 42 patients (74%) received concomitant use of IABP. During the first 72 hours following the initiation of VA-ECMO, the ECPELLA group received significantly higher total mechanical circulatory support flow compared to the VA-ECMO group, correspondingly received less catecholamine administration, and had more patients started on vasodilators and cardioprotective medications. There were no statistical differences in safety profiles, except for hemolysis and embolic cerebral infarction, between the two groups. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated that the 180-day survival rates were significantly higher in the ECPELLA group than in the VA-ECMO group. In a multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis that included age, shockable rhythm, OHCA, initial lactate levels, LFT, and ECPELLA, it was found that age (hazard ratio [HR], 1.28 [for 10-year increase]; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.09–1.51; p = 0.002), initial lactate level (HR, 1.06; 95% CI, 1.01-1.11; p = 0.04), and ECPELLA (HR, 0.55; 95% CI, 0.36–0.85; p = 0.007) were significantly associated with 180-day mortality. Conclusion ECPELLA was associated with improvement of 180-day mortality in patient who received E-CPR. The results suggest that not only the choice of ECPELLA but also sufficient circulatory support during the acute phase, along with modulating catecholamines and vasodilators, may have influenced the prognosis.

Differences in treatment and outcome of patients with ST- Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and Non-STEMI in Germany

Abstract Background ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI (NSTEMI) are the main diagnoses of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Although both types of infarction are classed as ACS, the treatment and overall survival rate are different. Methods Health claims data (≈26 million members) were screened for patients with STEMI and NSTEMI from 01/2010 to 12/2018. Patient demographics, hospitalization details, adherence to guideline-directed drug therapy, and survival were assessed. Results The total cohort of acute myocardial infarctions comprised 544,529 patients (mean age 74 (IQR 62 - 82), one third of whom were hospitalized with a STEMI. Patients with STEMI were more likely to be in a life-threatening situation and had higher in-hospital, 30- and 60-day mortality, but better long-term survival. Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE), infarct recurrence, chronic kidney disease, peripheral arterial disease, heart failure and cerebrovascular disease were more common in patients with NSTEMI. STEMI-patients received coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention more frequently. Although there was a clear correlation between guideline-compliant therapy and overall survival, adherence to guideline-compliant therapy decreased over time, especially in NSTEMI patients. Conclusion In ACS patients, there are clear differences between STEMI and NSTEMI patients in terms of short- and long-term survival. Guideline-based therapy improved long-term survival in both, but more significantly in STEMI patients.

COMPREENDENDO A INTERSEÇÃO ENTRE HIV/AIDS E PNEUMONIA: UMA ANÁLISE ABRANGENTE DA LITERATURA

INTRODUCTION: The relationship between HIV/AIDS and pneumonia is complex and multifaceted. Individuals infected with HIV have a significantly higher risk of developing pneumonia, caused by both bacterial and viral agents, due to immune suppression from the virus. OBJECTIVE: To identify in the literature the relationship between HIV/AIDS and pneumonia in the context of nursing care. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This is an integrative literature review conducted in the MEDLINE, LILACS, and BDENF databases, using the descriptors: “HIV seropositivity,” “Pneumonia,” and “nursing care.” The descriptors were combined using the boolean operator AND, covering the period from 2018 to 2024. RESULTS: The study found that HIV-positive patients tend to experience a subacute progression of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP), while immunocompromised patients without HIV face rapid progression, with a higher risk of respiratory failure and mortality. CT scans showed ground-glass opacities and elevated lactate dehydrogenase levels. Non-HIV patients had longer treatment delays and higher hospitalization and mortality rates. Lymphopenia, steroid use, and pneumothorax were associated with 60-day mortality. The incidence of bacterial pneumonia in people living with HIV decreased, linked to improved CD4 counts. Children with HIV showed higher mortality from coronavirus-related pneumonia. CONCLUSIONS: Future research should expand epidemiological surveillance, explore new therapies, and investigate co-infections in at-risk groups, particularly children. Additionally, strengthening public health policies and promoting prevention education are essential to improve clinical outcomes in vulnerable populations.

A new heart transplant resource: DBD donor with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

Abstract The aim of the present study is to analyze the differences in terms of cardiac transplant survival in organ recipients from a DBD (donor with brain death) donor characterized by out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and from a DBD donor not characterized by OHCA, in order to find new strategies to expand the donor pool. We analyzed the differences in mortality 30 days and 120 days after transplantation between the two groups of recipients, the length of stay in the ICU, the length of post-operative stay in the hospital, mechanical ventilation, the use of ECMO, the use of CVVH and the possible occurrence of ischemic and/or haemorrhagic stroke. 78 patients were compared: 13 recipients from a donor with OHCA with an average age of 55.18 (44.35 - 63.1) and 65 recipients from a donor without OHCA with an average age of 57.74 (50.9 - 66). The populations under study presented almost the same characteristics in terms of initial diagnosis, risk factors, comorbidities and list status. Comparing the results, no statistically significant differences were found between the two groups for ICU stay (p=1.000), for in-hospital stay (p=0.920) and for mechanical ventilation (p=0.95 ). No statistically significant difference was detected between the two groups even in terms of ECMO support (p=0.90), ischemic stroke (p=0.70), hemorrhagic stroke (p=0.781). From the analysis of the survival curves it can be seen that there is no statistically significant difference between the two groups either with regard to 30-day mortality (p=0.905) or 120-day mortality (p=0.957). The use of a DBD donor with OHCA represents a valid resource in the field of heart transplantation. In the present study it does not affect the recipient's survival rate. 30 days after heart transplantation mortality is conditioned by the intrinsic characteristics of the recipients.Kaplan-Meier 30 day survivalKaplan-Meier 30 day survival

Real-world evidence of implanting leadless pacemakers after transcatheter aortic valve implantation procedures

Abstract Background Conduction disturbances can be a complication of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) procedures, for which transvenous pacemakers (TVPs) are recommended. Leadless pacemakers (LPs) are a safe alternative to TVPs in a pacemaker-indicated population, but little is known about their use for TAVI-related conduction disturbances. Purpose To examine rates of pacemaker implantation post-TAVI, compare complications, all-cause mortality, and ventricular pacing rates in LP vs. TVP patients, and assess pacemaker deactivations/upgrades in LP patients. Methods Data from Optum’s de-identified Clinformatics Data Mart Database linked to a device registry between 2016 and 2021 were used to identify patients with TAVI procedures that are subsequently implanted with an LP or a TVP. Claims data were used to assess complications and all-cause mortality; device-reported parameters were used to calculate VP rates and deactivations. Complication rates, all-cause mortality, ventricular pacing rates, and device deactivations were calculated for patients with a pacemaker implant between 7 days before and 90 days after TAVI. Chronic complication rates, defined as complications with the potential to occur outside the acute peri- or post-procedural period, were assessed at 1 year. Regressions were used to compare complications and all-cause mortality, adjusting for patient characteristics. Results In a cohort of 18,073 patients with a TAVI procedure, 11.7% were implanted with a pacemaker at 1 year post-TAVI; 76.7% of implants occurred within 7 days. LPs comprised 7.2% of the total pacemaker implants observed. Of those LPs in the registry, around 25% have VDD capability. LP patients were older (avg. 84 LP, 82 TVP, p=0.02) and were more likely to have atrial fibrillation, end-stage or chronic kidney disease, and ventricular arrhythmias. Of patients implanted with a pacemaker within 90 days post-TAVI (LP N=122, TVP N=1,779), there were no differences in 30-day complication rates (12.3% LP, 15.6% TVP, unadj. p=0.33, adj. p=0.27). LP had fewer chronic complications than TVP (0.8% LP, 9.4% TVP, unadj. p=0.02, adj p=0.02) though the sample size was small. LP patients had higher unadjusted 30-day all-cause mortality (4.1% LP, 1.0% TVP, unadj. p=0.01, adj. p=0.06), reflecting the higher acuity of LP patients. At both 30 days and 1 year post-implant, most patients (85.3% LP, 72.7% TVP) continued to receive pacing support (ventricular pacing >10%). TVP patients were more likely than LP patients to be pacing dependent (ventricular pacing ≥90%) at both 30 days (53.8% vs. 29.4%) and 1 year (44.7% vs. 35.7%) post-implant. There were no observed deactivations/upgrades in LP patients at 1 year. Conclusion LPs, when used concomitantly with TAVI procedures, show similar acute and lower chronic complication rates compared to patients treated with TVPs implanted with TAVI. Most patients who received a pacemaker post-TAVI continue to receive pacing support.Acute and Chronic complicationsVentricular pacing

Multiparametric assessment of decongestion in patients admitted with acute heart failure: dynamic changes and correlation with natriuresis

Abstract Background Heart Failure (HF) is a major public health problem, expected to increase in the next few decades. The vast majority of acute HF (AHF) episodes are precipitated by congestion with volume overload and/or fluid redistribution. Current Guidelines stress on the importance of relieving congestion before discharge, recommending anyway only daily assessment of signs and symptoms. Lung ultrasound (LUS) B-lines and other ultrasound markers of congestion has emerged as valuable tools to improve diagnostic accuracy and help clinicians in fluid management. Purpose To assess the dynamic changes of B-lines and other markers of congestion and their relationship with the clinical evaluation, chest X-ray (CXR) and natriuretic peptides in patients admitted for AHF. Methods Fifty-eight patients (age 72±11 ys, 35% women) admitted with acute HF were enrolled. Patients underwent clinical evaluation (Clinical Congestion Score, CCS, including rales, pathological S3 heart sound, pedal oedema, jugular vein distension; range 0-4), and CXR (CXR score, including enlargement and loss of definition of hilar structures, peribronchial and perivascular cuffing, cardiomegaly, pleural effusion; range 0-4). An integrated multiorgan ultrasound exam including LUS B-lines, echocardiography, and venous excess ultrasound (VExUS) score was performed at admission (T0), between 24 and 48 hours from T0 (T1), and at discharge (T2). Follow-up data at 30 days were collected. Results Mean CCS was 1.52±0.99 at T0, with a reduction at T1 (0.86±0.66; p<0.01), and at T2 (0.34±0.66; p<0.01). Sixteen percent of patients with a CCS=0 at T0 showed, however, persistent B-lines on LUS (mean B-lines 19±6). The mean number of B-lines was 26±12 at T0 with a reduction at T1 (17±11; p<0.001), and at T2 (13±11; p<0.001). Other echocardiographic non-invasive hemodynamic parameters, such as pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and E/e’ showed a reduction only at T2, but not at T1 (figure). The number of B-lines correlated at all time points with CCS, CXR score, VExUS score, and NT-proBNP values (all p<0.05). We divided patients into two groups: "responders" (with ≥15 reduction of B-lines between T0 and T2) and "non-responders" (with <15 reduction of B-lines between T0 and T2). Responders had higher chlorine and sodium urinary excretion at T1 compared to non-responders. The number of B-lines at all time points was associated to 30-days cardiovascular mortality at univariable analysis. Neither CCS nor CXR score were associated with 30-day events. Conclusions In patients with acute HF, B-lines quantification is related to standard congestion assessment based on clinical evaluation, CXR and NT-proBNP, showing, however, a more dynamic behaviour in the assessment of decongestion. B-lines variations are also related to diuresis and chlorine urinary output, a recognized predictor of diuretic response. Persistent congestion is related to an increased risk of hospitalization and death.

5-year valve academic research consortium-3 outcomes and predictors of mortality in a 10-year Asian transcatheter aortic valve implantation registry

Abstract Background Transaortic valvular implantation (TAVI) has revolutionised the management of aortic stenosis (AS). Uptake in Asia has caught up in recent years, after an initial lag due to expensive cost, limited subsidies, and scarce accessibility. Hence, longitudinal outcomes of TAVI remain largely unknown in Asian patients. Purpose This study aims to present the 5-year mortality endpoints in an Asian cohort followed up over a decade. Methods 253 patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis status post TAVI were retrospectively enrolled at a tertiary academic hospital from 2010-2021. The main outcomes were defined as short-term (30-day), mid-term (1-year) and long-term (5-year) all-cause mortality. Baseline demographics, procedural findings and clinical outcomes were analysed. Kaplan-Meier curves and multiple Cox regression analyses were constructed. Results The mean age was 75.2 + 10.2 years. 120 (47.4%) patients were female and 167 (66%) were Chinese. 168 patients (66.7%) received balloon-expandable valves, 80 patients (31.7%) underwent self-expandable valves, and 4 patients (1.6%) had mechanical-expandable valves. Malignancy was associated with worse short-term mortality at 30-days (HR 3.65, p = 0.054), while pulmonary disease and previous stroke were associated with worse long-term mortality at 5-years (HR 2.27, p = 0.012 and HR 2.02, p = 0.064). Worse all-cause mortality at 30-days, 1-year and 5-years were associated with high NT-Pro BNP levels (HR 1.04, p = 0.046; HR 1.05, p = 0.002 and HR 1.04, p < 0.001), the presence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) (HR 4.32, p = 0.056; HR 4.48, p = 0.006 and HR 2.43, p = 0.023) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) (HR 6.19, p = 0.006; HR 6.77, p < 0.001 and HR 2.09, p = 0.008). Society of Thoracic Surgery (STS) score (HR 1.11, p = 0.001; HR 1.13, p < 0.001 and HR 1.12, p < 0.001) and Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC) III endpoints of acute kidney injury (AKI) (HR 6.68, p = 0.047, HR 10.8, p < 0.001 and HR 6.99, p < 0.001), cardiogenic shock (HR 26.3, p < 0.001, HR 12.0, p < 0.001 and HR 4.29, p = 0.011) and structural complications (HR 40.3, p < 0.001, HR 18.1, p < 0.001 and HR 5.18, p = 0.008) were associated with worse all –cause mortality at time-points of 30-days, 1-year and 5-years respectively. On multivariate analyses adjusted for comorbidities and outcomes, STS score and structural complications were independent predictors of 30-day, 1-year, and 5-year all-cause mortality (HR 1.16; p = 0.003, HR 1.09, p = 0.003 and HR 1.10, p < 0.001) and (HR 62.7, p < 0.007; HR 18.9, p < 0.001 and HR 10.6, p = 0.001) respectively. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) use was protective of survival within 1-year (HR 0.37, p = 0.022). Conclusions STS score and VARC III endpoints of structural complications were reliable predictors of all-cause mortality in Asian patients with TAVI. ACE inhibitor and ARB use was protective against mortality at 1-year.Cox regression analysesKaplan-Meier curves

Clinical impact of helicopter transport with a physician in cardiogenic shock complicating acute coronary syndrome

Abstract Introduction Cardiogenic shock (CS) remains the leading cause of death in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Helicopter transport with a physician may improve the prognosis through reduction of the ischemic time and an early critical care. However, the impact of transfer of a physician-staffed helicopter and outcomes of CS complicating ACS is uncertain. Purpose The aim of the present study was to evaluate compare the clinical characteristics and long-term outcome between helicopter transport with a physician and ground transport in CS complicating ACS patients. Methods We retrospectively investigated 2324 consecutive patients with ACS who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) in our institution from January 2004 to December 2017. The primary outcome was cardiovascular (CV) death. Results Among the 2324 eligible patients, 273 ACS patients (11.7%) were complicated by CS. Of 273 CS complicating ACS, a total of 81 (29.7%) patients were transported by helicopter, 166 (60.8%) patients were transported by ambulance, and 26 (9.5%) patients did not use emergency medical service. The mean age was 71 years, 75% of patients were male, STEMI was seen in 87%, and mechanical circulatory support was used in 64%. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that CV mortality up to 30 days was significantly lower with helicopter transport group compared those with ground transport (P = 0.0407). The rate of long-term CV death was comparable between groups (P = 0.19). Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed helicopter transport was significantly associated with lower 30-day CV mortality (adjusted HR 0.56, 95%CI 0.32-0.99, P = 0.0447). Conclusions Helicopter transport with a physician may improve cardiovascular outcomes of CS complicating ACS.Figure 1.Figure 2.

Complications after cardiac implantable electronic devices in patients with severe mental illness: a Danish nationwide study

Abstract Background Patients with mental illness experience higher rates of postoperative complications and mortality across several types of surgery, but knowledge is lacking in relation to cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantations. Purpose Our study aimed to investigate the 7-day, 30-day, and 90-day postoperative complication rate and mortality in patients with severe mental illness compared to the general population. Methods All adult patients in Denmark with a first-time pacemaker or ICD implantation during the study period from July 1995 to December 2022 were identified using the Danish nationwide registers. Severe mental illness was defined as having a preexisting diagnosis of schizophrenia and other non-affective psychotic disorders, bipolar affective disorders or major depressive disorder. Postoperative complications were obtained as diagnosis codes possibly relating to device implantation and categorized into seven types of complications: arterial thrombosis, venous thrombosis, pneumothorax, bleeding, infection, device function problem, and death. Stratified logistic regression analyses adjusted for sex and age were used to calculate the odds of postoperative complications within 7, 30, and 90 days of device implantation. Results Among 108,790 patients who had a de novo pacemaker or ICD implantation the mean age was 73.5 (± 12.8), 37.5% were women and 3,393 (3.1%) of the patients had preexisting severe mental illness. In total, 10,690 (9.8%) patients had one or more complications within 90 days. The number of patients with severe mental illness who experienced a complication were 407 (12.0%) while it was 10,283 (9.8%) of those without severe mental illness. Odds of death (OR 1.57, 95% CI: 1.03-2.29) were higher in patients with severe mental illness 7 days postoperatively, and 30 days postoperatively odds of venous thromboembolism (OR: 1.69, 95% CI: 1.05-2.56) and death (OR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.29-2.01) were higher in patients with severe mental illness. 90 days postoperatively odds of venous thrombosis (OR: 1.95, 95% CI: 1.37-2.70), infection (OR: 1.45, 95% CI: 1.16-1.79), and death (OR: 1.40, 95% CI: 1.19-1.65) were higher in patients with severe mental illness compared to patients without severe mental illness, while the odds of pneumothorax were lower at all three time points for patients with severe mental illness (OR 7-days: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.21-0.95). The odds of arterial thrombosis, bleeding and device function problems were similar between the two groups at all three time points. Conclusion Severe mental illness was associated with increased risk of several types of complications and death following CIED implantation. This indicates that further care and attention is needed to ensure adequate treatment of patients with severe mental illness suffering from cardiac arrhythmias.Forest plot, SMI: severe mental illness

Can a chest pain virtual ward be used to safely manage patients with low-risk acute coronary syndrome?

Abstract Background Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) accounts for approximately 2-6% of emergency department (ED) presentations and contributes at least 20% of the overall acute hospital admissions(1-3). Patients presenting with low-risk ACS may be suitable for remote monitoring(4) while awaiting angiogram in chest pain virtual ward(CPVW) thereby improving patient flow and resource utilisation. Purpose We aimed to assess outcomes for patients with low-risk ACS admitted in a district general hospital with a view to establish an onboarding pathway for CPVW whilst ensuring a safe monitoring without effecting the readmission rate or all-cause mortality. Methods We retrospectively analysed the Myocardial Ischaemia National Audit Project (MINAP) registry of from March 2022 to April 2023 for patients who presented to ED with a diagnosis of confirmed ACS. Patients were stratified into low-risk (GRACE score <140, HEART score <4, non-dynamic ECG, non-dynamic troponin, without ongoing chest pain), all other patients were deemed intermediate-to-high-risk ACS. Baseline demographics, the total length of acute admission days, waiting time before and after coronary investigation ,adverse events (escalation of therapy, death)whilst awaiting for invasive inpatient angiogram were calculated. The primary endpoint was 30-day readmission and all-cause mortality. Results 1077 patients were coded as ACS diagnosis in ED. 561(52.1%) had a confirmed diagnosis of ACS. Data to allow stratification was available for 538 patients, included in final analysis. 377(70.1%) were male with a mean age of 66.8 ± SD 13.1 years. A significant number of patients had other comorbidities, including hypertension (66.1%), diabetes (45.3%), hyperlipidaemia (51.3%), and previous history of IHD (46.5%). Total number of patients stratified into low-risk ACS was 55(10.2%), intermediate-to-high-risk group contained 483(89.8%) patients. The median total-length-of-stay (LOS) for low-risk ACS patients was 4 days(IQR 2-7), waiting time to have an inpatient angiogram was 3 days(IQR 0-5), and discharge time post-angiogram was 1 day(IQR 0-2). 4 patients(7.3%) in low-risk cohort required CCU admission for GTN infusion due to ongoing chest pain, among them 3 patients(5.5%) had abnormal coronary angiogram. 5 patients(9.1%) in low-risk cohort were readmitted due to chest pain post-angiogram and no patients had 30-days or 1-year all-cause mortality. The result depicts 51 patients from low-risk cohort would have been eligible for CPVW reducing the LOS from median 4 days to 1-2 days, this is a saving of 102-153 acute bed days per year. Assuming the costing of a bed day is £320 this equates to £32,640 - £48,960 cost saving without any adverse outcomes. Conclusion Our data suggests that there is a large cost saving with minimal risk in managing patients with low-risk ACS via a CPVW. This pathway of management is likely to have benefit in patient flow and resource utilisation in our district general hospital trust.Comparison of different ACS cohortsCPVW flow-diagram

Usefulness of preoperative NT-proBNP for prediction of acute heart failure, perioperative myocardial infarction/injury and mortality after non-cardiac surgery

Abstract Background Predicting cardiac complications after non-cardiac surgery is challenging. Purpose to determine the predictive accuracy of N-Terminal Pro–B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) and, to assess the utility of existing NT-proBNP cutoffs of the 2021 ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis of acute and chronic heart failure for prediction of postoperative acute heart failure (pAHF), perioperative myocardial infarction/injury (PMI) and mortality following non-cardiac surgery. Methods we prospectively determined preoperative NT-proBNP concentrations in consecutive patients at high cardiac risk undergoing inpatient non-cardiac surgery. Uni- and multivariable regression models were constructed to test the association between NT-proBNP concentrations and the outcomes (pAHF, PMI, 30-day and one-year mortality), using NT-proBNP as a continuous variable. We further stratified NT-proBNP into 5 categories according to guidelines (<125 pg/ml, 125 to 299pg/ml, 300 to 900 pg/ml, 901 to 1800pg/ml and >1800 pg/ml). Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to determine the predictive value of NT-proBNP. Results Among the 2,334 cases included, pAHF occurred in 83 (3.6%), PMI in 381 (17%), 45 (2.5%) patients died within 30 days and 179 (10%) within one year. After adjusting for confounders, NT-proBNP concentrations were independent predictors of pAHF (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.8 [95%CI, 1.5-2.1], p<0.001), PMI (aHR 1.3 [95%CI, 1.2-1.4],p<0.001) and 30 day/one year mortality (aHR 1.6[95%CI, 1.3-2.0], p<0.001)/aHR 1.5 [95%CI 1.4-1.7], p<0.001). By quintiles, higher the NT-proBNP levels were strongly associated with adverse outcome (Figure). Accuracy of preoperative NT-proBNP for prediction of pAHF was excellent (area under the curve [AUC] 0.825) and better than accuracy of the Revised Cardiac Risk Index score (AUC 0.692, p<0.001), whereas accuracy of NT-proBNP for prediction of PMI (AUC 0.654) and mortality (AUC 0.787) was only moderate. Conclusion NT-proBNP concentrations are independent predictors of pAHF, PMI and short and long-term mortality following non-cardiac surgery. Stratifying NT-proBNP concentrations using current recommended cut-offs could help to further determine the magnitude of the risk, mainly of pAHF.

Diagnostic pathways and outcomes by comorbidity in cancer patients: a study in Northern Italy

Abstract Background Pre-existing chronic conditions can influence cancer diagnosis and outcomes. The study aimed to examine variations in diagnostic pathways and outcomes in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients by comorbidity status and socio-demographic characteristics in the provinces of Milan and Lodi, Northern Italy. Methods A population-based cohort study using linked administrative health data from the Agency for Health Protection (ATS) of Milan was conducted on individuals aged ≥18 years diagnosed with CRC in 2014-2017. We examined pathways to cancer diagnosis, stage at diagnosis and short-term mortality by specific comorbidities and sociodemographic factors. Results Among the 5,272 colon cancer and 2,120 rectal cancer patients, 43.9% and 61.5%, respectively, had at least one pre-existing comorbidity, most frequently hypertension (52.7% and 49.9%) and cardiovascular disease (CVD, 23.2% and 18.5%). Cancer diagnostic pathways included screening (4.1% colon and 4.4% rectal cancer patients), EP (22.8% and 12.6%) and inpatient/outpatient admission (73.1% and 82.9%). At multivariable logistic regression, patients with pre-existing cerebrovascular or neurological diseases had significantly higher odds of EP for CRC. In the multinomial logistic regression analysis, the odds of EP were significantly higher for patients aged <50 or ≥ 80 (vs 60-69), belonging to the highest deprivation group and being widowed (vs married). The odds of screen-detected CRC were lower for patients with multimorbidity (2 vs 0 comorbidities: adjusted OR = 0.32, 95% CI 0.14-0.75). 30-day and one-year mortality were higher in colon cancer patients with EP vs inpatient/outpatient (aOR=2.46, 95%CI 1.95-3.09; aOR=2.02, 95%CI 1.74-2.35 respectively). As the number of chronic conditions increased, mortality increased especially at one year. One-year mortality was also higher for rectal cancer patients with 3+ comorbidities (vs no comorbidities). Key messages • Patients with pre-existing chronic conditions had a lower likelihood of screening, higher odds of emergency CRC diagnosis and higher mortality. EPs occur in one in five CRC patients. • Tailored interventions might be needed to facilitate CRC screening, reducing emergency diagnoses and improving health outcomes for the large number of patients with chronic conditions.

Validation of Artificial Intelligence-Based POTTER Calculator in Emergency General Surgery Patients Undergoing Laparotomy: Prospective, Bi-Institutional Study.

The POTTER calculator, a widely used interpretable artificial intelligence (AI) risk calculator, has been validated in population-based studies and shown to predict outcomes in emergency general surgery (EGS) patients better than surgeons. We sought to prospectively validate POTTER. Patients undergoing an emergency exploratory laparotomy for non-trauma indications at two Academic Medical Centers between June 2020 and March 2022 were included. POTTER preoperative risk calculations and postoperative outcomes were systematically recorded. POTTER's performance in predicting 30-day postoperative mortality, septic shock, respiratory failure, bleeding, and pneumonia was assessed using the c-statistic methodology. A total of 361 patients were included. The median age was 63 years (IQR: 51-72), 45.4% were females, and the overall mortality and morbidity were 24.1% and 51.4%, respectively. POTTER predicted mortality accurately with a c-statistic of 0.90. POTTER also accurately predicted the occurrence of individual postoperative complications, with c-statistics ranging between 0.80 and 0.89. This is the first prospective validation of the AI-enabled POTTER calculator. The superior accuracy, user-friendliness, and interpretability of POTTER make it a useful bedside tool for preoperative patient and family counseling.

Do DAN-GER-SHOCK eligible patients benefit from VA-ECMO treatment in infarct-related cardiogenic shock ? Results of an individual patient data meta-analysis.

Abstract Background In a recent meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials routine use of venous-arterial ECMO (VA-ECMO) did not improve outcome in patients with infarct related cardiogenic shock (CS). Since the rate of patients with cardiac arrest and the need for cardio-pulmonary resuscitation was over 75 %, it has been speculated that a more selective approach might improve the effectiveness of VA-ECMO. Methods Patients included in four randomized clinical trials investigating the routine use of VA-ECMO in CS were centrally analysed. For the purpose of this sub-analysis only patients who would have been eligible for inclusion into the Dan-Ger SHOCK trial were analyzed (STEMI only, exclusion of comatose patients after out-of hospital cardiac arrest). The primary endpoint was 180-day total mortality. Results A total of 202 patients (106 randomised to VA-ECMO and 96 to control) were included into this analysis. There were no differences in baseline characteristics, angiographic and interventional features between the two groups. The table summarizes the results and revealed non-significant trends towards a reduced mortality with VA-ECMO. Conclusions In non-comatose patients with CS and STEMI the routine use of VA-ECMO is associated with a numerically lower mortality after 6 months. However, as indicated by the large confidence intervals the statistical power was limited, to draw definite conclusions. Therefore, a prospective trial with VA-ECMO in these patients seems warranted.Table

Effectiveness of an Impella versus intra-aortic balloon pump in patients who received extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: a nationwide inpatient database study

Abstract Background/Introduction Previous studies have suggested that left ventricular (LV) unloading with an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) or percutaneous ventricular assist device (Impella) in combination with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is associated with lower mortality; however, it is unclear which is better. Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of LV unloading with an Impella versus IABP on in-hospital mortality and other clinical outcomes. Methods Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database from September 28, 2016, to March 31, 2022, we identified inpatients who received an Impella or IABP in combination with ECMO (ECPella or ECMO+IABP group, respectively). The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality and the secondary outcomes were the length of hospital stay, length of ECMO, total hospitalization cost, and complications including major bleeding, an ischemic stroke, vascular complications, and renal replacement therapy during hospitalization. Propensity score matching was performed to compare the outcomes between the groups. We performed sensitivity analyses excluding patients who received extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Results Of 14,525 eligible patients, 603 (4.2%) received ECPella and 13,922 (96%) received ECMO+IABP. After propensity score matching, there was no significant difference in in-hospital mortality between the two groups (58.9% versus 56.6%; risk difference, 2.3%; 95% confidence interval, -3.9% to 8.5%). A Kaplan–Meier analysis with the log-rank test showed no significant difference in the 60-day in-hospital mortality between the two groups (P value = 0.114) (Figure 1). The ECPella group had a longer hospital stay (mean 42.8 days versus 33.7 days; risk difference, 9.1 days; 95% confidence interval, 2.6 to 15.6 days), a higher total hospitalization cost (12,573,000 yen versus 6,857,000 yen; risk differences, 5,716,000 yen; 95% confidence interval, 4,439,000 yen to 6,993,000 yen), and more frequent major bleeding (8.1% versus 5.8%; risk difference, 2.0%; 95% confidence interval, 0.007% to 4.0%), vascular complications (4.1% versus 2.2%; risk difference, 2.0%; 95% confidence interval, 0.04% to 3.9%), and renal replacement therapy during hospitalization (50.6% versus 41.1%; risk difference, 9.5%; 95% confidence interval, 3.0% to 15.9%) than the ECMO+IABP group (Figure 2). The results of the sensitivity analyses, excluding 6,360 patients (44%) who received extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, showed similar results to those for the main analyses. Conclusions This nationwide inpatient database study showed that ECPella was not associated with a survival benefit but was associated with a longer hospital stay, a higher total hospitalization cost, and more complications than ECMO+IABP.Figure 1Figure 2

Single arterial access versus standard access in TAVI: results from a large multicenter registry

Abstract Background The transfemoral approach has become the gold standard primary access for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) due to low complication rates. An additional secondary access (ScA) is used for angiographic guidance of the procedure. Recently, small, single-center studies demonstrated feasibility of single-access for transfemoral TAVI without a secondary access. However, comparative and large-scale data are missing. Purpose We assessed vascular and bleeding complications of ScA and Single access (SA) approaches in a large multicenter registry to evaluate both strategies. Methods The PULSE registry (Plug or sUture based vascuLar cloSurE after TAVI) retrospectively evaluated data of 10,120 patients who underwent transfemoral TAVI at 10 high-volume German heart centers from 2016 to 2021. In 9,457 patients who qualified for analysis ScA (80.7% femoral, 19.3% radial) were performed in 8709 (92%) and SA in 748 (8%). Outcomes were evaluated in accordance with the Valve Academic Research Consortium (VARC-3) definitions. Results Median age was 81.9[IQR 78.2, 85.1] years and 48.9% of patients were female (median logistic EuroSCORE II: 3.3% [IQR 2.1, 5.6]). Peripheral artery disease was comparable between groups (13.5 vs. 14.0%, p=0.73). While overall major access-related vascular complications did not differ significantly (6.1% vs. 4.8%, p=0.20), there was a higher incidence of minor complications for ScA compared to SA (9.0% vs. 2.8%, p<0.001). Secondary access complications amounted to 2.7% in the ScA group and were mainly characterized as bleeding (1.2%) and pseudoaneurysms (1.2%) mostly treated conservatively (1.2%), yet in some cases surgical repair was needed (0.8%). No significant difference was observed regarding type III/IV bleeding (4.1% vs. 4.3%, p=0.91), stroke rate (2.4% vs. 3.6%, p=0.05), stage III/IV acute kidney injury (2.4% vs. 2.4%, p=1.00) or all-cause 30-day mortality (5.8% and 5.7%, p=0.99) for ScA compared to SA groups. Conclusion In patients treated with transfemoral TAVI, a single access approach was associated with lower rates of minor access-related vascular complications without compromising overall outcomes, suggesting potential benefits of a minimally-invasive TAVI approach with the omission of additional vascular access.

A sex-specific comparison of valve-in-valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Abstract Introduction Valve-in-valve (ViV) transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a viable and less-invasive alternative to open heart surgery in selected patients with bioprosthetic valve dysfunction. Since patients receiving initially a new bioprosthetic aortic valve are predominantly male, data on a sex-specific comparison of ViV-TAVI is scarce. Thus, we compared patient characteristics, procedural outcomes, and 1-year outcomes of female (F) versus male (M) patients with failing bioprosthetic aortic valves undergoing ViV-TAVI. Methods A total of 375 Patients at 3 German centres were included in this analysis. The 1-year mortality was the primary outcome measure, secondary outcomes included VARC-3 defined technical and device success and early safety. Results Overall, 160 (42.6 %) women and 215 (57.4 %) men were included. Women were older (F 81 (77; 84), p < 0.001), had a greater surgical risk (STS PROM F: 9.1 (6.1; 13,9) %, p < 0.001) and a higher rate of previous coronary bypass surgery (F: 25.6 % vs M: 40 %, p = 0.004), while presenting mostly failed valve sizes < 20 mm (F: 59.4 % vs M: 33.4 %, p < 0.001) and therefore higher gradients (F: 40 (31; 50) mmHg vs M: 32 (25; 42) mmHg, p < 0.001). Aortic regurgitation was the mode of failure in 7.5 % of F vs. 14.4 % of M. The number of stentless valves was higher in men (F: 8,1 % vs M: 14 %, p = 0.08). Patients received a self-expanding TAVI prostheses in 79.4 % and 75.8 % respectively in F and M patients. The rates of technical success (F: 75.6 % vs M: 83.3 %, p =0.06), device success (F: 52.5 % vs M: 58.2 %, p = 0.27) and early safety (F: 67.5 % vs M: 67 %, p = 0.91) were comparable between genders. Residual mean gradients were higher in F (F: 15 (11;22) mmHg vs M: 15 (10; 20) mmHg, p = 0.03), while the rates of residual regurgitations were greater in M patients (F: 1 (0.6 %) vs M: 11 (5.1 %), p = 0.04). The Kaplan-Meier estimated 30-day mortality rate (F: 2.5% vs M: 3.3%, p = 0.66) and 1-year mortality rates (F: 10 % vs M: 92.6 %, p = 0.37) were comparable between genders. Conclusion: F and M patients treated by ViV-TAVI have comparable short-term outcomes according to VARC-3-defined endpoints and similar mortality rates after 30 days and 1 year. The residual gradients in F and residual regurgitations in M could be explained by structural features of their failed valves. Further large scale studies are needed to determine, if such procedural outcomes are truly sex-specific.