Composite Of All-cause Mortality Research Articles

Right ventricular-pulmonary arterial coupling ratio derived from 3-dimensional echocardiography predicts outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension patients.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune connective tissue disease (CTD) that is an important cause of devastating pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and persistent progression of PAH can lead to right heart failure, predicting a poor prognosis for SLE patients. Right ventricular-pulmonary arterial (RV-PA) coupling with echocardiography has been demonstrated to be a noninvasive alternative method for evaluating PAH patients' predictive outcomes. Whether the ratio of right ventricular stroke volume (RVSV) to right ventricular end-systolic volume (RVESV) measured by three-dimensional echocardiography (3DE) is a new index of RV-PA coupling has not been discussed as a new predictor for the clinical outcome of systemic lupus erythematosus-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension (SLE-PAH). From June 2019 to February 2023, 46 consecutive patients with SLE-PAH were enrolled prospectively, and their clinical data and echocardiographs were studied and analyzed. The control group consisted of 30 healthy subjects matched for age, sex, and body surface area (BSA). The main endpoints of this study were a composite of all-cause mortality and adverse clinical events. Baseline clinical characteristics and echocardiographic assessments were analyzed. During a median of 24months (IQR 18-31), 16 of 46 SLE-PAH patients (34.7%) experienced endpoint-related events. At baseline, patients who experienced mortality or adverse events had a worse WHO functional class (WHO FC) and lower anti-double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) antibody levels. The right ventricular (RV) systolic dysfunction in SLE-PAH subjects was significantly worse than that in the healthy control group, especially in SLE-PAH patients in the endpoint event group. Compared to controls, patients with SLE-PAH had a lower RVSV/RVESV ratio. In the group comparison, patients who had experienced an endpoint event had a sequentially worse ratio (1.86 (1.65-2.3) versus 1.30 (1.09-1.46) versus 0.64 (0.59-0.67), p < .001). There were statistically significant associations between the RVSV/RVESV ratio to routine RV systolic function and clinical parameters. The RVSV/RVESV ratio was negatively correlated with the WHO FC (r = -0.621, p < .001) and positively correlated with the anti-dsDNA level. The ROC curve showed that the optimal cutoff for RVSV/RVESV < 0.712 determined a higher risk of poor prognosis. Kaplan‒Meier survival curves showed that an RVSV/RVESV ratio >0.712 was associated with more favorable long-term outcomes. The 3DE-derived SV/ESV ratio as a noninvasive alternative surrogate of RV-PA coupling was an eximious indicator for identifying endpoint events in SLE-PAH patients and can provide a diagnostic basis for clinical intervention.

Impact of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Left Atrial Ejection Fraction in Advanced Ischemic Cardiomyopathy

BackgroundThe prognostic significance of cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)-based left atrial ejection fraction (LAEF) is not well defined in the ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) cohort. ObjectivesThe authors sought to assess the prognostic impact of LAEF, when adjusted for left ventricular remodeling, myocardial infarct size (MIS), left atrial volume index, and functional mitral regurgitation (FMR), on outcomes in patients with advanced ICM. MethodsICM patients who underwent CMR were retrospectively evaluated (April 2001-December 2019). LAEF, left atrial volume index, MIS, left ventricular remodeling, and FMR were derived from CMR. The primary clinical endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality and cardiac transplant. A baseline multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression model was constructed to assess prognostic power of LAEF. ResultsThere were 718 patients (416 primary events) evaluated, with a median duration of follow-up of 1,763 days (4.8 years) and a mean LAEF of 36% ± 15%. On multivariable analysis, higher LAEF was independently associated with reduced risk (HR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.12-0.48, P < 0.001), even after adjusting for FMR and MIS. The highest adjusted risk was observed in patients with an LAEF <20% and an MIS of >30% (HR: 3.20, 95% CI: 1.73-5.93). The lowest risk was in patients within the comparator group with an LAEF of >50% and a MIS of <15% (HR: 1.07, 95% CI: 0.81-1.42). ConclusionsReduced LAEF is independently associated with increased mortality in ICM. Risk associated with declining LAEF is continuous and incremental to other risk factors for adverse outcomes in patients with ICM even after adjusting for MIS and FMR severity.

Association between living alone and all-cause mortality of young and middle-aged patients with acute myocardial infarction: analysis of the China Acute Myocardial Infarction (CAMI) registry

BackgroundLack of social support is a known predictor of the prognosis after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Although as a common factor associated with social support, there are limited data on long-term prognostic impact of living status in young and middle-aged patients with AMI.MethodsWe analyzed data from the China Acute Myocardial Infarction (CAMI) Registry, consecutive AMI young and middle-aged patients admitted at 108 hospitals in China between January 2013 and September 2014 were included. Eligible patients were assigned to living alone and not living alone groups based on their living status. The primary endpoint was 2-year all-cause mortality. The secondary endpoints included in-hospital mortality and 2-year major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs; a composite of all-cause mortality, MI, or stroke). Multilevel logistic and multilevel Cox regression models were used to evaluate the effect of living status on short-term and long-term outcomes.ResultsA total of 8307 consecutive AMI young and middle-aged patients were included, 192 (2.3%) patients were living alone. Of the analyzed patients, living alone was associated with 2-year all-cause mortality and MACCEs among all analyzed patients after multivariate adjustment (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 2.171 [1.210–3.895], P = 0.009; adjusted HR = 2.169 [1.395–3.370], P = 0.001), but not with poorer in-hospital mortality.ConclusionsThe analysis suggested that living alone was associated with both 2-year all-cause mortality and MACCEs in AMI young and middle-aged patients but did not show an extra effect on the in-hospital mortality after covariate adjustment.Trial registrationTrial registration number: NCT01874691; Registered 31 October 2012.

Prognostic value of angiographic microvascular resistance in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction

BackgroundThe Angiographic Microvascular Resistance (AMR), derived from a solitary angiographic view, has emerged as a viable substitute for the Index of Microcirculatory Resistance (IMR). However, the prognostic significance in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) patients is yet to be established. This research endeavors to explore the prognostic capabilities of AMR in patients diagnosed with STEMI. MethodsIn this single-center, retrospective study, 232 patients diagnosed with STEMI who received primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) were recruited from January 1, 2018, to June 30, 2022. Utilizing the maximally selected log-rank statistics analysis, participants were divided into two cohorts according to an AMR threshold of 2.55 mmHg*s/cm. The endpoint evaluated was a composite of all-cause mortality or hospital readmission due to heart failure. ResultsAt a median follow-up of 1.74 (1.07, 3.65) years, the composite endpoint event was observed in 28 patients within the higher AMR group and 8 patients within the lower AMR group. The higher AMR group showed a significantly higher risk for composite outcome compared to those within the low-AMR group (HRadj: 3.33; 95% CI 1.30‒8.52; p = 0.03). AMR ≥ 2.55 mmHg*s/cm was an independent predictor of the composite endpoint (HR = 2.33; 95% CI 1.04‒5.21; p = 0.04). Furthermore, a nomogram containing age, sex, left ventricle ejection fraction, post-PCI Quantitative Flow Ratio (QFR), and AMR was developed and indicated a poorer prognosis in the high-risk group for STEMI patients at 3 years. (HR=4.60; 95% CI 1.91‒11.07; p < 0.01). ConclusionsAMR measured after PCI can predict the risk of all-cause death or readmission for heart failure in patients with STEMI. AMR-involved nomograms improved predictive performance over variables alone.

Comprehensive Assessment of Lipid Markers in Cardiovascular Events Prediction.

Many studies have reported a relationship between various lipids, such as cholesterol, fatty acids, and lipoproteins, and cardiovascular events. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is often cited as a representative marker. However, there is still room for discussion regarding which markers, among other lipids, should take clinical precedence.This observational study focused on patients without residual stenosis on post-coronary angiography. It was based on blood tests, including lipid profiles at that time, and assessed the association with the subsequent occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, a composite of all-cause mortality, hospitalization due to heart failure, myocardial infarction, stroke, and all revascularizations).Of the 375 patients analyzed, 134 experienced MACE (median follow-up duration: 1031 days). When comparing the MACE and non-MACE groups, significant differences were observed in lipid markers such as non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) and remnant-like particle cholesterol (RLP-C) (non-HDL-C; P = 0.003, RLP-C; P < 0.001). Furthermore, the area under the curve for RLP-C was 0.656 (95% CI: 0.598-0.714). Improvement in MACE risk discrimination was observed when LDL-C was replaced with non-HDL-C or RLP-C, in addition to atherosclerosis risk factors (non-HDL-C; net reclassification improvement (NRI) = 0.366, 95% CI: 0.159-0.572, RLP-C; NRI = 0.224, 95% CI: 0.016-0.433).It is highly likely that non-HDL-C and RLP-C can serve as significant lipid markers for predicting the occurrence of MACE.

A matter of sex-persistent predictive value of MECKI score prognostic power in men and women with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: a multicenter study.

A sex-based evaluation of prognosis in heart failure (HF) is lacking. We analyzed the Metabolic Exercise test data combined with Cardiac and Kidney Indexes (MECKI) score registry, which includes HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients. A cross-validation procedure was performed to estimate weights separately for men and women of all MECKI score parameters: left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), hemoglobin, kidney function assessed by Modification of Diet in Renal Disease, blood sodium level, ventilation vs. carbon dioxide production slope, and peak oxygen consumption (peakVO2). The primary outcomes were the composite of all-cause mortality, urgent heart transplant, and implant of a left ventricle assist device. The difference in predictive ability between the native and sex recalibrated MECKI (S-MECKI) was calculated using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve at 2 years and a calibration plot. We retrospectively analyzed 7,900 HFrEF patients included in the MECKI score registry (mean age 61 ± 13 years, 6,456 men/1,444 women, mean LVEF 33% ± 10%, mean peakVO2 56.2% ± 17.6% of predicted) with a median follow-up of 4.05 years (range 1.72-7.47). Our results revealed an unadjusted risk of events that was doubled in men compared to women (9.7 vs. 4.1) and a significant difference in weight between the sexes of most of the parameters included in the MECKI score. S-MECKI showed improved risk classification and accuracy (area under the ROC curve: 0.7893 vs. 0.7799, p = 0.02) due to prognostication improvement in the high-risk settings in both sexes (MECKI score >10 in men and >5 in women). S-MECKI, i.e., the recalibrated MECKI according to sex-specific differences, constitutes a further step in the prognostic assessment of patients with severe HFrEF.

Very early invasive strategy in higher risk non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome: the RAPID NSTEMI trial

ObjectiveTo investigate whether a very early invasive strategy (IS)±revascularisation improves clinical outcomes compared with standard care IS in higher risk patients with non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS).MethodsMulticentre, randomised, controlled, pragmatic...

Daily Physical Activity Measured by Wearable Smartwatch for Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: Insights From the SMART TAVR Study.

This study aims to evaluate limited data about daily physical activity patterns, influential factors, and their association with 1-year mortality or rehospitalization after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) through smartwatches. Consecutive severe aortic stenosis patients undergoing elective transfemoral TAVR in a Chinese tertiary hospital were enrolled from July 2021 to May 2022 and received a Huawei smartwatch at least 1 day before TAVR. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality or hospital readmission within 1 year. Linear mixed-effects models were applied to determine influential factors of daily step counts, and Cox proportional hazard regression models were to estimate the association between baseline step counts within 1 month since discharge and composite outcome from months 2 to 12. The dose-response association was assessed using restricted cubic spline curves. A total of 222 participants and 59 469 valid monitoring person-day records were included (mean age, 72.7 years; 61% women). Step counts increased rapidly within the first 2 months (P<0.001), followed by a slower increase for those without composite outcomes (P=0.029) and a gradual decrease for those who developed composite outcomes (P<0.001). In multivariate linear mixed models, a 1-m increase in baseline 6-minute walk test and a 1-month delay after discharge were associated with 4 (95% CI, 1-7) and 170 (95% CI, 145-194) additional step counts, respectively. In restricted cubic spline analysis, the hazard ratio declined progressively until ≈5000 steps per day, after which they leveled. Below 5000 steps, the adjusted hazard ratio of composite outcome associated with each 1000-step count increase was 0.67 (0.50-0.89; P=0.007). However, above 5000 steps, step counts were not significantly associated with the composite outcome (P=0.645), with a hazard ratio of 1.12 (0.70-1.79). Daily step counts rapidly increased within the first 2 months post-TAVR. Increased physical activity was associated with a lower risk of 1-year mortality or rehospitalization after TAVR for patients with daily step counts below 5000. URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT04454177.

Prognostic effect of sex according to shock severity in patients with acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock

BackgroundSex disparities in cardiogenic shock (CS) treatment are controversial, and the prognostic implications of sex remain unclear in CS caused by acute myocardial infarction (AMI). ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the prognostic effect of sex according to the severity of CS in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for AMI complicated by CS. MethodsWe assessed 695 patients from 12 tertiary centers in South Korea who underwent PCI for AMI complicated by CS, and analyzed outcomes by sex (female [n = 184] vs. male [n = 511]). We compared a 12-month patient-oriented composite endpoint (POCE, defined as a composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, re-hospitalization due to heart failure, and repeat revascularization) between the sexes, respective of SCAI shock stage C&D or E. Propensity score-matched analysis was performed to reduce bias. ResultsWe found that the female group was older and had higher vasoactive-inotropic and IABP-SHOCK II scores than the male group, with findings consistent across SCAI shock stages. During the 12-month follow-up period, multivariate analysis revealed no significant differences in POCE (HR 1.01, 95% CI 0.67–1.53, p = 0.963 for SCAI stage C&D, HR 1.24, 95% CI 0.84–1.84, p = 0.286 for SCAI stage E) between females and males. After propensity score matching, the incidence of POCE (HR 1.47, 95% CI 0.79–2.72, p = 0.220 for SCAI stage C&D, HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.49–1.57, p = 0.665 for SCAI stage E) was similar between sexes. ConclusionsSex does not appear to influence the risk of 12-month POCE in patients treated with PCI for CS caused by AMI, irrespective of shock severity. Clinical Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT02985008. RESCUE (REtrospective and prospective observational Study to investigate Clinical oUtcomes and Efficacy of left ventricular assist device for Korean patients with cardiogenic shock), NCT02985008, Registered December 5, 2016 - retrospectively and prospectively. IRB InformationThis study was approved by the institutional review board of Samsung Medical Center (Reference number: 2016-03-130).

Coronary artery bypass surgery versus percutaneous interventions for women with multivessel coronary artery disease

ObjectiveTo compare outcomes in women undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. DesignThis retrospective, propensity-score matched cohort study from the New York State cardiac registry (2012-2018) included all women with multivessel coronary artery disease undergoing PCI with everolimus-eluting stents (EES) and CABG surgery. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. The key secondary outcome was major adverse cardiac events, defined as the composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, and stroke. ResultsPCI with EES was associated with a higher 6-year risk of mortality (25.75% vs 23.57%; adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 1.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-1.45). PCI also was associated with a higher rate of the composite outcome of death, myocardial infarction, and stroke (36.58% vs 32.89%; AHR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.17-1.41), as well as myocardial infarction (14.94% vs 9.12%; AHR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.56-2.17), but not stroke (7.07% vs 7.62%; AHR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.67-1.03). Repeat revascularization rates also were higher for women undergoing PCI (21.53% vs 11.57%; AHR, 1.88; 95% CI, 1.63-2.17). There was no difference in mortality between the 2 interventions when PCI patients received complete revascularization or had noncomplex lesions and for women without diabetes. ConclusionsFor women with multivessel coronary artery disease, CABG surgery is associated with lower 6-year mortality, myocardial infarction, and repeat revascularization rates compared to PCI with EES.

First-phase ejection fraction to predict adverse outcomes in patients with heart failure

BackgroundFirst-phase ejection fraction (EF1) is a novel measurement of early left ventricular systolic dysfunction. We investigate its prognostic value in patients with heart failure (HF). Methods and resultsPatients with HF were prospectively enrolled from July 2019 to September 2021. A total of 228 patients were included in the final analysis. The primary endpoint was the composite of all-cause mortality or rehospitalization for HF, which occurred in 74 patients (32.46%). EF1 as well as other parameters for left ventricular function were measured in echocardiography. Time-dependent ROC showed the cutoff value of EF1 was 18.55%. Kaplan–Meier analysis indicated a higher rate of adverse events in the lower EF1 group (EF1 ≤ 18.55%) (Log-rank test P < 0.001). Cox regression analyses showed EF1 was an independent predictor with adverse events as a continuous variable (Cox model 1: per 1% change in EF1: HR = 0.92, 95%CI: 0.87–0.97, P < 0.001), as well as a categorical variable (Cox model 2: EF1 > 18.55%: HR = 0.21, 95%CI: 0.08–0.53, P < 0.001) after adjustment for hypertension, coronary artery disease (CAD), Log10 (NT-proBNP), eGFR, E/e’ and loop diuretics. Restricted cubic splines revealed a linear association between EF1 levels and the incidence of adverse events (P for non-linearity = 0.145). The subgroup analyses showed the predictive ability of elevated EF1 on the decreased risk of adverse events did not change substantially stratified by HF classification, age, CAD and hypertension. ConclusionEF1, as a novel measurement of early systolic function, is a promising predictor of adverse events among HF patients. EF1 might be considered a new measurement for risk stratification of HF.

Assessing the prognostic significance of mean pulmonary artery velocity in heart failure with slightly reduced ejection fraction

ObjectiveIn this study, we assessed the prognostic significance of the mean velocity of the pulmonary artery (mvPA) using CMR in patients who have heart failure with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF) and pulmonary hypertension, both as a combined condition and individually. MethodsThis retrospective study involved 284 consecutive patients diagnosed with HFmrEF who were hospitalized and underwent CMR imaging to assess RV-PA coupling parameters, including mvPA. We collected baseline data clinical profiles, lab test results, and cardiac imaging findings of patients with HFmrEF who had at least two echocardiograms conducted three months apart. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause mortality or readmission due to heart failure. ResultsA total of 139 patients met the primary endpoint during an average follow-up of 49 months. The most effective threshold value for predicting the primary endpoint, determined by a receiver operating curve analysis, was 9. cm/s for mvPA. According to the Kaplan-Meier survival plots, when mvPA ≤ 9.05 cm/s, there was a significantly higher mortality rate (Log-Rank: 71.93, p < 0.001). It is important to highlight that the predictive value of mvPA remained consistent, irrespective of RV function. mvPA ≤ 9.05 cm/s served as an independent prognostic indicator, alongside ischemic cardiomyopathy and hyponatremia. ConclusionsmvPA has affirmed its significance as an initial prognostic indicator by identifying a group of high-risk patients who have sustained RV function. While the results of this study displayed potential in stratifying the extended prognosis of patients with HFmrEF, additional research is required.

2409. Potential candidates for partial oral treatment in patients with endocarditis at a US center

Abstract Background In the Danish POET trial, oral step-down oral antibiotics in patients with left-sided infective endocarditis (IE) was non-inferior to traditional intravenous antibiotics (IV-AB). Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) is widely used in the US despite associated adverse events. Our aim was to assess the proportion of US patients that were potential candidates for step-down oral antibiotic treatment, i.e. POET-treatment, and number of days IV-AB antibiotics could have been reduced. Methods Retrospective study of patients admitted with left-sided IE at a US single center from January 2021 – June 2022 was conducted. Patients were considered candidates for POET-treatment if they were infected with S. aureus, E. faecalis, Streptococcus spp., or CoNS, had a BMI &amp;lt; 40 kg/m2 and survived until discharge. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality, symptomatic embolism, unplanned cardiac surgery, and relapse of bacteremia within 6 months. Results Out of 111 patients with left-sided IE, 71 (64%) were considered potential POET-candidates (median age 64 years (IQR 54-75), 72% male); 30% had IE caused by S. aureus, and 48% were surgically treated (Table 1). Potential candidates were older (64 vs 60 years), more often infected with Streptococcus spp. (24% vs 0%) or CoNS (23% vs 5%), and had a pacemaker/ICD at baseline (23% vs 5%), as compared to patients who were not candidates for POET-treatment. Of potential POET-candidates, 93% (66/71) were stabilized, allowing discharge to OPAT with a median of 29 days (IQR 20-36) of antibiotic treatment remaining. The primary outcome occurred in 28% of potential POET-candidates and in 53% of non-POET candidates, compared to the occurrence of the primary outcome in 11% in the Danish POET-trial (Table 2). Conclusion More than half of patients admitted with left-sided IE were potential candidates for POET-treatment. For the vast majority of these patients, up to 4 weeks of IV-AB may have converted to oral step-down antibiotics. Prevalence of the primary outcome in potential POET-candidates was almost 3 times higher in this US cohort than in the Danish POET trial, indicating a higher baseline risk. These findings indicate a need for prospective studies of oral step-down antibiotic therapy in US patients with IE. Disclosures Joji Suzuki, MD, Indivior: Grant/Research Support

Obesity-Related Differences in Pathomechanism and Outcomes in Patients With HFpEF: A CMR Study

BackgroundClinical significance of an integrated evaluation of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and the right ventricle (RV) in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is unknown. ObjectivesThe authors investigated the potential of EAT and RV quantification for obesity-related pathophysiology and risk stratification in obese HFpEF patients using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR). MethodsA total of 150 patients (obese, body mass index ≥30 kg/m2; n = 73, nonobese, body mass index <30 kg/m2; n = 77) with a clinical diagnosis of HFpEF undergoing CMR were retrospectively identified. EAT volume surrounding both ventricles were quantified with manual delineation on cine images. Total RV volume (TRVV) was calculated as the sum of RV cavity and mass at end-diastole. The endpoint was the composite of all-cause mortality and first HF hospitalization. ResultsDuring a median follow-up of 46 months, 39 nonobese patients (51%) and 32 obese patients (44%) experienced the endpoint. EAT was a prognostic biomarker regardless of obesity and was independently correlated with TRVV. In obese HFpEF, EAT correlated with RV longitudinal strain (r = 0.32, P = 0.006), and increased amount of EAT and TRVV was associated with greater left ventricular end-diastolic eccentric index (r = 0.36, P = 0.002). The integration of RV quantification into EAT provided improved risk stratification with a C-statistic increase from 0.70 to 0.79 in obese HFpEF. Obese patients with EAT<130 ml and TRVV<180 ml had low risk (annual event rate 3.2%), while those with increased EAT ≥130 ml and TRVV ≥180 ml had significantly higher risk (annual event rate 11.8%; P < 0.001). ConclusionsCMR quantification of EAT and RV structure provides additive risk stratification for adverse outcomes in obese HFpEF.

Transcatheter versus surgical mitral valve repair in patients with mitral regurgitation.

The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of transcatheter and surgical mitral valve repair (SMVr) in primary mitral regurgitation (MR) and MR with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). In this retrospective cohort study, we used the Nationwide Readmission Database to identify primary MR and MR with HFrEF patients who underwent transcatheter or SMVr from 2016 to 2019. A propensity score with 1:1 matching was applied. The primary outcome was a cumulative event rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), which was a composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, cardiac arrest and mitral valve replacement. Other important secondary outcome was in-hospital mortality. After propensity score matching, 2187 matched pairs were found in the primary MR cohort and 2178 matched pairs were found in the MR-HFrEF cohort. Transcatheter mitral valve repair (TMVr) had significantly higher medium-term MACE compared with SMVr in both cohorts (primary MR: hazard ratio: 1.73, 95% confidence interval: 1.33-2.26, P ≤ 0.001; MR-HFrEF: hazard ratio: 2.00, 95% confidence interval: 1.58-2.54, P ≤ 0.001). TMVr showed similar in-hospital mortality in both cohorts. Although TMVr showed better short-term outcomes, it had significantly higher medium-term MACE than SMVr in both cohorts. Thus, shared decision-making should be performed for TMVr after discussing the benefits and risks in patients who can undergo SMVr.

Heart rate: an accessible risk indicator in adult congenital heart disease

BackgroundHigher resting heart rate has been described as a risk factor for adverse outcome in healthy individuals and cardiovascular patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate resting heart...

Beta-blockers effects according to sex: does selectivity and dose equally matter?

Abstract Background β-blockers are one of the four recommended disease-modifying classes of drugs for the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Although their efficacy and prognostic role is unquestionable in the general population of HFrEF patients, the differences in their effect in relation to sex have not been yet investigated in detail. The present study analyzed a large, real-world, Italian population of HFrEF patients aiming to highlight any prognostic difference between males and females in relation to dose and β-selectivity of the ongoing β-blocker treatment. Methods Out of the 7900 HFrEF patients included in the MECKI score registry, we retrospectively analyzed those treated with β-blockers. We investigated the prognostic role of β-selectivity, dividing the population in assuming β1/β2-receptor blockers (carvedilol) vs. β1-selective blockers (bisoprolol, nebivolol or metoprolol), according to sex, and the prognostic role of daily carvedilol-equivalent β-blocker dose in relation to sex. The primary outcome of the study was the composite of all cause mortality, urgent heart transplant and LVAD implant analyzed at 5 years, both as raw data and after correction of potential confounders. Results 6784 HFrEF patients treated with β-blockers were analyzed (1215 females, 5569 males). Patients median follow-up was 4.05 years [1.72-7.47]: 4.37 [1.6-8.13] for females and 3.99 [1.75-7.3] for males (p=ns). According to β-selectivity no prognostic differences were found in the general population, as in female or males (Fig. 1 right panel). Stratification of patients according to β-blockers equivalent dose showed significant difference among groups: mortality decreases with increasing β-blockers dose in both males and females (Fig. 1, left panel), both at baseline and after adjustment for the main confounders (LVEF, age, peakVO2, systolic pressure, hemoglobin, rest heart rate; VE/VCO2 slope, etiology. ICD, MDRD). Conclusions In a large, real-life population of chronic HFrEF patients analyzed according to sex, no prognostic differences were found between stratifying for β-selectivity. A better outcome was observed in subjects receiving a high daily dose, independently from sex.Fig 1Table 1

Prognostic value of three iron deficiency definitions in patients with advanced heart failure

Abstract Background Iron deficiency (ID) is a common co-morbidity in patients with chronic heart failure (HF) and is an independent predictor of adverse prognosis including quality of life and exercise capacity (1-3). Intravenous iron replacement improves outcomes in HF patients including exercise capacity, quality of life, rate of HF hospitalisation and possibly mortality (1-4). Different definitions of ID are used in clinical practice. European HF guidelines define ID as a serum ferritin concentration of &amp;lt; 100 ng/ml, or a serum ferritin of concentration of 100-299 ng/ml with a transferrin saturation (TSAT) &amp;lt; 20% (5) because this definition was used in most trials of iron replacement in HF (1-3). However, other criteria to diagnose ID have been proposed based on comparison to the gold standard of bone marrow biopsy including serum iron ≤ 13 µmol/L and TSAT &amp;lt; 20% (6). Serum ferritin concentrations to diagnose ID has been criticised because inflammation can lead to increased serum ferritin concentrations even in patients who would fulfil ID criteria based on alternative definitions (7). Purpose The prognostic value of ID in patients with advanced HF, assessed for heart transplantation, is currently not well established. This patient population is characterised by relatively young age, single-organ pathology and prognosis is largely determined by the severity of heart disease rather than co-morbidities. In this study we investigated the prognostic value of various ID definitions in this patient cohort. Methods and Results Consecutive patients assessed for heart transplantation at a single UK centre between January 2010 and May 2022 were included. ID was defined as 1) serum ferritin concentration of &amp;lt; 100 ng/ml, or 100-299 ng/ml with transferrin saturation &amp;lt; 20% (guideline definition), 2) serum iron concentration ≤ 13 µmol/L, or 3) transferrin saturation &amp;lt; 20%. The primary outcome measure was a composite of all-cause mortality, urgent heart transplantation or need for mechanical circulatory support. 801 patients were included, and the prevalence of ID was 39-55% depending on definition used. ID, defined by either serum iron or transferrin saturation, was an independent predictor of the primary outcome measure [HR 1.532 (95% CI 1.264 - 1.944) and HR 1.595 (95% CI 1.323 - 2.033), respectively], but the same association was not seen with the guideline definition of ID [HR 1.085 (95% CI 0.8827 - 1.333)]. These findings were robust in multivariable cox regression analysis. ID, by all definitions, was associated with lower six-minute walk distance, lower peak oxygen consumption, higher intra-cardiac filling pressures and lower cardiac output. Conclusions ID, when defined by serum iron concentration or transferrin saturation was associated with increased frequency of adverse clinical outcomes in patients with advanced HF. The same association was not seen with guideline definition of ID.

Systemic inflammatory disease in patients with spontaneous coronary artery dissection

Abstract Background Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an increasingly recognised cause of non-atherosclerotic myocardial infarction (MI). Systemic inflammatory diseases are commonly associated with SCAD patients, but the link between inflammatory diseases and SCAD remains unclear. Purpose To determine the prevalence of systemic inflammatory disease (SID) and elevated inflammatory markers (EIM) at SCAD presentation. To compare long-term outcomes between SCAD patients with and without SID, and with and without EIM at presentation. Methods We reviewed patients enrolled in the Canadian SCAD Study who had laboratory measurements of inflammatory markers at presentation with SCAD. We compared the baseline demographics, presence of SID, presentation characteristics, and long-term outcomes between patients with and without SID, and between patients presenting with and without EIM at time of SCAD. SID was determined using past medical history and patient self-identification. C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were used as inflammatory biomarkers. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) were defined as the composite of all-cause mortality, stroke or transient ischemic attack, MI, hospitalization for heart failure and unplanned revascularization. Results Of 1307 patients with SCAD, 360 had inflammatory markers measured at presentation. Of these 360 patients, 150 (43.1%) had EIM at presentation, and 13 (3.6%) reported a history of SID. Mean age was 52.9±9.8 years for patients with EIM, vs. 50.8±10.9years for patients without EIM (p=0.06). Patients with EIM had significantly higher body mass index compared to those without EIM (35.5% vs 17.6%, p=0.001). Of the patients with reported SID, there was higher prevalence of diabetes and hypertension. There was no significant difference in mean inflammatory marker levels, ESR (13.4±15.6mm/h vs 13.7±13.2mm/h, p=0.965) and CRP (15.6± 23.1mg/L vs 11.9± 26.8mg/L, p=0.644) among SID vs. no SID patients at SCAD presentation. Overall mean follow-up was 3.7±1.9 years. There was no difference in in-hospital MACE and overall MACE between patients with EIM vs. no EIM, and between SID and no SID cohorts. There were also no significant difference in angiographic findings, fibromuscular dysplasia prevalence, proportion treated conservatively vs. with revascularization in these cohorts. Conclusion There was no significant difference between presentation, laboratory values, treatment, or outcomes between SCAD patients with or without SID, and between patients who present with and without EIM. This suggests that both active inflammation and history of inflammatory diseases do not contribute to SCAD or outcomes.Table 1.SCAD cohort demographics &amp; data

Interleukin-6 plasma levels predict mortality and heart failure events in cardiac transthyretin amyloidosis

Abstract Background Low-grade systemic inflammation is a key component in the pathophysiology of heart failure (HF). In particular, the pleiotropic effects of interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling are of interest as circulating IL-6 levels are associated with mortality in HF patients. Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate whether IL-6 plasma levels predict mortality and HF events in patients with cardiac transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR-CM). Methods This was an analysis of a prospective single-center cohort study comprising 98 ATTR-CM patients. The endpoint was defined as a composite of all-cause mortality and worsening HF events. HF events included HF related hospitalizations and urgent outpatient clinic visits with concomitant intravenous diuretic treatment. Follow-up data were collected using central medical records. Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox regression analyses were calculated to assess the association between IL-6 and the composite endpoint. Moreover, receiver operator characteristics (ROC) analysis was performed to evaluate the predictive accuracy of IL-6 for the composite endpoint. Results Median age was 79 years (76-81), 86 patients (88%) were male, and 46 patients (47%) received the transthyretin (TTR) stabilizer tafamidis at baseline. Median NT-proBNP levels were 2813 pg/ml (1365-4856), mean estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 57.9±17.6 ml/min/1.73m², and median urine protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR) was 122.0 mg/g (89.8-204.5). Median IL-6 plasma levels were 4.9 pg/ml (3.0-9.4). During a median observation period of 21.2 months (11.4-32.4), 27 patiens (28%) reached the composite endpoint. IL-6 levels were associated with the composite endpoint (hazard ratio = 1.028, 95% confidence interval = 1.004 to 1.051; p = 0.012). The association was independent of age, TTR stabilizing medication, log-transformed and eGFR-adjusted NT-proBNP levels, as well as UPCR. The area under the ROC curve for IL-6 was 0.70 (95% confidence interval = 0.59 to 0.81; p = 0.003). The optimal cutoff value was 5.3 pg/ml, as determined by Youden’s index, with a sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 66%. Kaplan-Meier estimates demonstrated a mean survival time of 1030 days (95% confidence interval = 911 to 1150) for the study population. A statistically significant difference between the survival rates of ATTR-CM patients with IL-6 levels ≥5.3 pg/ml and those with IL-6 levels below the threshold was indicated by the log-rank test (p = 0.002). Conclusion Circulating levels of IL-6 independently predicted adverse outcomes in patients with ATTR-CM. IL-6 plasma levels may be useful for identifying a high-risk ATTR-CM subpopulation.Tablewith baseline characteristicsFigurewith Kaplan-Meier estimates