Consecutive ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Research Articles

Five years of a comprehensive ST-elevation myocardial infarction protocol and its association with sex disparities.

AimsTo determine whether a comprehensive ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) protocol is associated with reduced sex disparities over 5 years.Methods and resultsThis was an observational cohort study of 1833 consecutive STEMI patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) before (1 January 2011–14 July 2014, control group) and after (15 July 2014–15 July 2019, protocol group) implementation of a protocol for early guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT), rapid door to balloon time (D2BT), and use of trans-radial PCI. In the control group, females had less GDMT (77.1% vs. 68.1%, P = 0.03), similarly low trans-radial PCI (19.0% vs. 17.6%, P = 0.73), and longer D2BT [104 min (79, 133) vs. 112 min (85, 147), P = 0.02] corresponding to higher in-hospital mortality [4.5% vs. 10.3%, odds ratio (OR) 2.44 (1.34–4.46), P = 0.004], major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events [MACCE, 9.8% vs. 16.3%, OR 1.79 (1.14–2.84), P = 0.01], and net adverse clinical events [NACE, 16.1% vs. 28.3%, OR 2.06 (1.42–2.99), P < 0.001]. In the protocol group, no significant sex differences were observed in GDMT (87.2% vs. 86.4%, P = 0.81) or D2BT [85 min (64–106) vs. 89 min (65–111), P = 0.06], but trans-radial PCI was used less in females (77.6% vs. 71.2%, P = 0.03). In-hospital mortality [2.5% vs. 4.4%, OR 1.78 (0.91–3.51), P = 0.09] and MACCE [9.0% vs. 11.1%, OR 1.27 (0.83–1.92), P = 0.26] were similar between sexes, but higher NACE in females approached significance [14.8% vs. 19.4%, OR 1.38 (0.99–1.92), P = 0.05] due to higher bleeding risk [7.2% vs. 11.1%, OR 1.60 (1.04–2.46), P = 0.03].ConclusionsA comprehensive STEMI protocol was associated with sustained reductions for in-hospital ischaemic outcomes over 5 years, but higher bleeding rates in females persisted.

Clinical Impact of Irregular Protrusion Angle After Coronary Stenting at Culprit Lesions With ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction - An Intravascular Optical Coherence Tomography Study.

Background: A recent optical coherence tomography (OCT) registry showed that the presence of irregular protrusion (IP) after coronary stenting was a predictor of worse 1-year cardiovascular events. This study evaluated the clinical impact of OCT-detected IP after coronary stenting at ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) culprit lesions.Methods and Results: In all, 139 consecutive STEMI patients with OCT-detected IP after stenting were analyzed retrospectively. The maximum IP angles were measured and patients with IP were divided into 2 groups (large IP, maximum IP angle ≥180°; small IP, 0°<angle<180°). The primary endpoints were cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, target lesion revascularization, and stent thrombosis at 1 year after the index percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Of STEMI patients with IP, 51.8% had large IP. The incidence of the primary endpoints higher was higher in the large than small IP group (12.5% vs. 1.5%, respectively; P=0.018). The occurrence of plaque rupture was an independent predictor of large IP (odds ratio 4.58; 95% confidential interval 1.86–11.27; P=0.001).Conclusions: Maximum IP angle ≥180° was an independent predictor of clinical events in STEMI patients with IP.

Prognostic implications and outcomes of cardiac arrest among contemporary patients with STEMI treated with PCI

BackgroundCardiac arrest (CA) complicating ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with a disproportionately higher risk of mortality. We described the contemporary presentation, management, and outcomes of CA patients in the era of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). MethodsWe reviewed 1,272 consecutive STEMI patients who underwent PCI between 1/1/2011-12/31/2016 and compared characteristics and outcomes between non-CA (N = 1,124) and CA patients (N = 148), defined per NCDR definitions as pulseless arrest requiring cardiopulmonary resuscitation and/or defibrillation within 24-hr of PCI. ResultsMale gender, cerebrovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, in-hospital STEMI, left main or left anterior descending culprit vessel, and initial TIMI 0 or 1 flow were independent predictors for CA. CA patients had longer door-to-balloon-time (106 [83,139] vs. 97 [74,121] minutes, p = 0.003) and greater incidence of cardiogenic shock (48.0% vs. 5.9%, p < 0.001), major bleeding (25.0% vs. 9.4%, p < 0.001), and 30-day mortality (16.2% vs. 4.1%, p < 0.001). Risk score for 30-day mortality based on presenting characteristics provided excellent prognostic accuracy (area under the curve = 0.902). However, over long-term follow-up of 4.5 ± 2.4 years among hospital survivors, CA did not portend any additional mortality risk (HR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.56–1.82, p = 0.97). ConclusionsIn a contemporary cohort of STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI, CA occurs in >10% of patients and is an important mechanism of mortality in patients with in-hospital STEMI. While CA is associated with adverse outcomes, it carries no additional risk of long-term mortality among survivors highlighting the need for strategies to improve the in-hospital care of STEMI patients with CA.

The Impact of COVID-19 on In-Hospital Outcomes of ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients

Background: Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is one of the important clinical procedures that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we aimed to assess the incidence and impact of COVID-19 on the in-hospital outcomes of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients managed with PPCI. Methods: This observational retrospective study was conducted on consecutive STEMI patients who presented to International Cardiac Center (ICC) Hospital, Alexandria, Egypt between February 1 and October 31, 2020. A group of STEMI patients who presented during the same period in 2019 was also assessed (control), and the data were used for comparison. The inclusion criterion was established diagnosis of STEMI requiring PPCI. A total of 634 patients were included in the study. Results: During the COVID-19 period, the number of PPCI procedures was 25.7% lower than previous year (average 30 cases/month 30.0±4.01 compared to 40 cases/month 40.4±5.3), and the time from first medical contact to needle (FMC-to-N) was longer (125.0±53.6 min vs 52.6±22.8 min, p=0.001). Also during the COVID-19 period, the in-hospital mortality rate was higher (7.4% vs 4.6%, p=0.036), as was the incidence of re-infarction (12.2% vs. 7.7%, p=0.041) and the need for revascularization (15.9% vs 10.7%, p=0.046). The incidence of heart failure, stroke and bleeding was not different between groups, but the length of hospital stay was longer during COVID-19 (6.85±4.22 days versus 3.5±2.3 days, p=0.0025). Conclusion: At the ICC, the COVID-19 pandemic contributed significantly to the PPCI management of STEMI, with a decreased number and delayed procedures. COVID-19 was also associated with higher in-hospital mortality, rate of re-infarction, need for revascularization, and longer hospital stay.

Neutrophil Counts Help Predict Free Wall Rupture Following St-elevation Myocardial Infarction.

Free wall rupture (FWR) is a lethal complication after acute myocardial infarction; however, the un-derlying mechanisms of FWR are unclear. This study analyzes the relationship between neutrophil counts and FWR following ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The case group was STEMI patients with FWR and the control group was STEMI patients without FWR (case-control ratio was 1:4). The demographic data, clinical manifestation and laboratory test results were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Of a total of 6,712 consecutive STEMI patients, 78 patients (1.2%) had FWR. Compared with STEMI patients, patients with FWR were older and more likely to be female with an anterior infarct. White blood cell (WBC) counts were significantly higher in the FWR group. Moreover, we found that the elevated neutrophil counts mainly accounted for the elevated WBC counts. There was also a correlation between the age and neu-trophil counts (P=0.0109); as patient age increased, neutrophil counts decreased (P=0.0387). We also found no correlation between neutrophil counts and the time between myocardial infarction attack and FWR; however, when dividing these patients into FWR ≤48 h after admission to hospital for STEMI and FWR >48 h, there was a significant difference in neutrophil counts (P=0.0196). Furthermore, the results of logistic regression analy-sis showed that increased neutrophil was an independent risk factor for FWR (odds ratio: 2.404, confidence interval: 1.055-5.477). Elevated neutrophil counts were found to be the main cause of differences in WBC counts be-tween FWR and STEMI. Elevated neutrophil was an independent risk factor for FWR. This study provided clues for further research and development of therapeutics for the prevention of FWR.

Leptin serum level is associated with clinical outcome after STEMI

Leptin, an adipocyte derived hormone, plays a central role in food intake regulation but also in inflammation regulation. Leptin level is increased after myocardial infarction but its relationship with clinical prognosis is unknown. The study objective was to evaluate, in a cohort of patients admitted for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the one-month serum kinetics of leptin and its potential relationship with infarct size, left ventricular function and clinical outcome. We prospectively enrolled 251 consecutive STEMI patients. Leptin was assessed in the serum at admission (H0), 4 h, 24 h and 48 hours (H4, H24 and H48) and 1 month (M1) after admission. Patients underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging at M1 for measurement of infarct size (IS) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Clinical outcomes were recorded over 24 months after STEMI. We demonstrated that leptin level reaches a peak 24 hours after the admission. Leptin level at H24 was correlated with IS ( r = 0.19, P = 0.02) and inversely correlated with LVEF ( r = −0.16, P = 0.04). Leptin serum level was associated with an increased risk of experiencing the composite endpoint during the 24 months of follow-up [adjusted HR = 2.3 CI (1.1–4.8), P = 0.03]. These results suggest that leptin might be an early prognosis marker in STEMI patients.

In Comparison to Pathological Q Waves, Selvester Score is a Superior Diagnostic Indicator of Increased Long-Term Mortality Risk in ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Treated with Primary Coronary Intervention.

The development of pathological Q waves has long been correlated with worsened outcome in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). In this study, we investigated long-term mortality of STEMI patients treated by primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) and compared predictive values of Q waves and of Selvester score for infarct volume estimation. Data of 283 consecutive STEMI patients (103 females) treated by PPCI were analysed. The presence of pathological Q wave was evaluated in pre-discharge electrocardiograms (ECGs) recorded ≥72 h after the chest pain onset (72 h Q). The Selvester score was evaluated in acute ECGs (acute Selvester score) and in the pre-discharge ECGs (72 h Selvester score). The results were related to total mortality and to clinical and laboratory variables. A 72 h Q presence and 72 h Selvester score ≥6 was observed in 184 (65.02%) and 143 (50.53%) patients, respectively. During a follow-up of 5.69 ± 0.66 years, 36 (12.7%) patients died. Multivariably, 72 h Selvester score ≥6 was a strong independent predictor of death, while a predictive value of the 72 h Q wave was absent. In high-risk subpopulations defined by clinical and laboratory variables, the differences in total mortality were highly significant (p < 0.01 for all subgroups) when stratified by 72 h Selvester score ≥6. On the contrary, the additional risk-prediction by 72 h Q presence was either absent or only borderline. In contemporarily treated STEMI patients, Selvester score is a strong independent predictor of long-term all-cause mortality. On the contrary, the prognostic value of Q-wave presence appears limited in contemporarily treated STEMI patients.

The impact of pre-hospital 12-lead electrocardiogram and first contact by cardiologist in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction in Kanagawa, Japan

Background pre-hospital 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) by emergency medical service (EMS) personnel at the site of first medical contact (FMC) and the physician of first contact both play important roles in managing patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, in Japan, pre-hospital 12-lead ECG is not routinely performed by EMS personnel at the site of FMC and the physician of first contact is not always a cardiologist.Methods from October 2015 to October 2019, 2035 consecutive STEMI patients transported from the field by ambulance were analyzed from the K-ACTIVE registry. Based on the presence (+) or absence (-) of pre-hospital 12-lead ECG / first contact by cardiologist, patients were divided into 4 groups (+/+, +/-, -/+, -/-). Patient characteristics, FMC to door time, door to device time and in-hospital mortality were compared.Results the numbers of patients in each group were as follows (+/+, n = 987; +/-, n = 211; -/+, n = 610; -/-, n = 227). For patient characteristics, there were significant differences in the prevalence of dyslipidemia and the presence of chest pain. The FMC to door time was similar (median value, +/+, 24 min; +/-, 25 min; -/+, 24 min; -/-, 24 min; p = 0.23). The door to device time was the shortest in the +/+ group (median value, +/+, 65 min; +/-, 80 min; -/+, 69 min; -/-, 88 min; p < 0.0001). Crude in-hospital mortality was the highest in the -/- group (+/+, 3.9%; +/-, 2.4%; -/+, 5.8%; -/-, 11.9%; p < 0.0001). After adjustment for age and sex, the adjusted odds ratios for in-hospital mortality were as follows [odds ratio (with 95% confidence interval) +/+, 0.33 [0.19-0.57]; +/-, 0.19 [0.07–0.52]; -/+, 0.49 [0.29–0.86]; -/-, 1 [reference)].Conclusion pre-hospital 12-lead ECG and the physician of first contact had a significant impact on the door to device time and in-hospital mortality. Continuous efforts should be made to improve acute management of STEMI.

The impact of complete atrioventricular block on in-hospital and long-term mortality in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background/aim: Complete atrioventricular (AV) block is associated with worse in-hospital outcome in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), while whether it has an impact on long-term outcome is uncertain. The majority of previous studies that analyzed this issue are performed before introduction primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). The aim of this study was to analyse the incidence and the prognostic impact of complete AV block at admission on in-hospital and 6-year mortality in STEMI patients treated with pPCI. Method we analyzed 2863 consecutive STEMI patients without cardiogenic shock at admission. Clinical, laboratory and echocardiographic characteristics and prognosis were compared between patients with and without complete AV block at admission. Results Complete AV block at admission was registered in 134 (4.6%) patients; 117 (87.3%) patients with complete AV block had inferior infarction. In comparison without complete AV block, patients with complete AV block were older; they were more likely to have heart failure, lower blood pressure and lower creatinine clearance at admission, multi-vessel disease on initial coronary angiogram and lower pre-discharge left ventricular ejection fraction (EF). Temporary pacemaker was implanted in 68 (50%) patients with complete AV block. No patient underwent permanent pacemaker implantation. In-hospital mortality was significantly higher in patients with complete AV block than in patients without complete AV block: 17.9% vs 3.6%, respectively, p &amp;lt; 0.001. In patients with heart block and inferior infarction in-hospital mortality was 13%, whereas in patients with heart block and anterior infarction in-hospital mortality was 53%. When we analyze patients who were discharged alive from the hospital, we also find significantly higher long-term (6-year) mortality rate in those with complete AV block at admission vs patients without AV block: 7.8% vs 3.4% respectively, p &amp;lt; 0.001 (Figure 1). The causes of death in patients with complete AV block during long-term follow up were cardiovascular, e.g. sudden death, reinfarction or worsening of heart failure. In Cox regression model complete AV block was an independent predictor for in-hospital and 6-year mortality: in-hospital mortality HR 2.54 85%CI 1.93-5.22, p = 0.011; six year mortality HR 1.61, 95CI 1,09-2.37, p = 0.017. Other independent predictors for both short- and long-term mortality were age, heart failure at admission, lower creatinine clearance at admission, EF and post-procedural flow TIMI &amp;lt;3 thorugh infarct-related artery. Conclusion Complete AV block at admission is an independent predictor for in-hospital and long-term mortality in STEMI patients treated with primary PCI. Abstract Figure 1

The Association of a PRECISE-DAPT Score With No-Reflow in Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

This study aimed to evaluate the association of admission PREdicting bleeding Complications In patients undergoing Stent implantation and subsEquent Dual Anti Platelet Therapy (PRECISE-DAPT) score with the development of no-reflow (NR) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). In this observational, retrospective study, 335 consecutive STEMI patients who were treated with primary PCI were included. We classified the study population into 2 groups: patients with a PRECISE-DAPT score <25 and those with a PRECISE-DAPT score ≥25. Overall, 30 (8.9%) patients developed NR. The mean PRECISE-DAPT score (20.03 ± 15.32 vs 11.33 ± 12.18; P = .005) was significantly higher in cases who developed NR. Moreover, arrhythmic complications, in-hospital shock, and in-hospital mortality rates were significantly higher in patients with a PRECISE-DAPT score ≥25 compared to those with a PRECISE-DAPT score <25. According to a multivariable analysis, the PRECISE-DAPT score was found to be independently linked with NR (odds ratio: 2.87, with P = .015). To our knowledge, these data are the first in major medical science databases to determine the relationship between the PRECISE-DAPT score and the NR phenomenon in patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI.

Intracoronary bolus of glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor as bridging or adjunctive strategy to oral P2Y12 inhibitor load in the modern setting of ST-elevation myocardial infarction.

In the acute management of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors (GPIs) bolus not followed by intravenous infusion is potentially advantageous given their fast onset and offset of action, but clinical evidence in a contemporary setting is limited. We collected data from consecutive STEMI patients admitted to the cardiac catheterization laboratory of the IRCCS A. Gemelli University Polyclinic Foundation from October 2017 to September 2019. Out of 423 consecutive STEMI patients, 297 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in the study. Of them, 107/297 (36%) received an intracoronary GPI bolus-only during primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) not followed by intravenous infusion and 190/297 (64%) received standard antithrombotic therapy. Of the 107 GPI-treated, 22/107 (21%) had P2Y<inf>12</inf> inhibitor pretreatment (adjunctive strategy) and 85/107 (79%) did not (bridging strategy). During hospital staying, there was no difference in the primary safety endpoint of TIMI major+minor bleeding (P=0.283), TIMI major (P=0.267) or TIMI minor (P=0.685) bleeding between groups. No stroke event occurred in the GPI group. Despite patients receiving GPI having a significantly higher intraprocedural ischemic burden, no significant differences were found in the efficacy outcomes between groups. Consistent findings were observed for patients receiving GPIs bolus before (bridging strategy) or after (adjunctive strategy) P2Y<inf>12</inf> inhibitors, compared to those receiving standard therapy. Multivariate logistic regression analyses did not find any independent predictors significantly associated to the primary and secondary composite endpoints. In a contemporary real-world population of STEMI patients undergoing PPCI, the use of intracoronary GPIs bolus-only in selected patients at high ischemic risk is safe and could represent a useful antithrombotic strategy both in those pretreated and in those naïve to P2Y<inf>12</inf> inhibitors.

TIMI (Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infraction) flow grade in ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction after Primary Percutaneous Intervention

Background: Timely reperfusion, preferably by primary percutaneous intervention (PCI) has been the guiding-principle for the treatment of patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). TIMI flow grade of the culprit lesion after the procedure have shown to have significant implication in clinical outcome. Objective: We aimed to study the relation of TIMI flow grade with the in-hospital outcome and complication among patients of STEMI.Methods: All consecutive acute STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI during the study period (January 2020 to June 2020) were analyzed for correlation between TIMI flow grade and clinical outcome during the hospital stay. Prior approval was taken from institutional review board. The study design was retrospective observational study.Result: Total of 51(55%) patients had achieved the TIMI 3 flow after the primary PCI. Number of patients achieving TIMI flow of 2,1 and 0 after the procedure were 34(37%),6(6.5%) and 2(2%). Incidence of traditional risk factors like dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension was higher in TIMI flow &lt;2 . TIMI flow &lt;2 was also associated with more adverse events namely cardiogenic shock, arrythmias, in-hospital mortality and overall major adverse cardiovascular events.Conclusion: Patients with dyslipidemia had poor TIMI flow grade during primary PCI. Similarly, patients having hypertension, diabetes mellitus and late presentation showed tendency for TIMI flow &lt;2 . Also, the poor TIMI flow grade after primary PCI had unfavorable the clinical outcomes like increased complications and mortality. Keywords: Primary percutaneous intervention (PCI), ST elevation MI (STEMI), TIMI flow grade

Is coronary multivessel disease in acute myocardial infarction patients still associated with worse clinical outcomes at 1-year?

BackgroundST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients with multivessel disease (MVD) are associated with a worse prognosis. However, few comparisons are available according to coronary status in the era of modern reperfusion and optimized secondary prevention.HypothesisWe hypothesized that the difference in prognosis according to number of vessel disease in STEMI patients has reduced.MethodsAll consecutive STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) within 24 h of symptoms onset between January 1, 2014 and June 30, 2016 enrolled in the CRAC (Club Régional des Angioplasticiens de la région Centre) France PCI registry were analyzed. Baseline characteristics, management, and outcomes at 1‐year were analyzed according to coronary status (one‐, two‐, and three‐VD).ResultsA total of 1886 patients (mean age 62.2 ± 14.0 year; 74% of male) were included. Patients with MVD (two or three‐VD) represented 53.7%. They were older with higher cardiovascular risk factor profile. At 1 year, the rate of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, defined as all‐cause death, stroke or re‐MI) was 10%, 12%, and 12% in one‐, two, and three‐VD respectively (p = .28). In multivariable adjusted Cox proportional hazard regression model, two‐ and three‐VD were not associated with higher rate of MACE compared to patients with single VD (HR, 1.09; 95%CI 0.76–1.56 for two‐VD; HR, 0.74; 95%CI 0.48–1.14 for three‐VD).ConclusionsMVD still represents an important proportion of STEMI patients but their prognoses were not associated with worse clinical outcomes at 1‐year compared with one‐VD patients in a modern reperfusion area and secondary medication prevention.

Cardiac magnetic resonance derived global longitudinal strain outperforms established functional parameters in prognostication after ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background Although left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is recommended for left ventricular (LV) systolic function assessment and risk stratification of patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), its prognostic value is limited. Other measures of LV function such as global longitudinal strain (GLS) and mitral annular plane systolic excursion (MAPSE) might provide additional prognostic information post-STEMI. However, comprehensive investigations comparing these parameters in terms of prediction of hard clinical events following STEMI are lacking so far. Purpose We aimed to investigate the comparative prognostic value of LVEF, MAPSE and GLS by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in acute STEMI patients. Methods This observational study included 407 consecutive acute STEMI patients treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Comprehensive CMR investigations were performed 3 [interquartile range (IQR): 2-4] days after PCI to determine LVEF, GLS and MAPSE as well as myocardial infarct characteristics. Primary endpoint was the occurrence of MACE defined as composite of death, re-infarction and congestive heart failure. Results During a follow-up of 21 [IQR: 12-50] months, 40 (10%) patients experienced MACE. Patients with MACE showed significantly lower LVEF (49% vs. 53%, p = 0.005) and MAPSE (7.9 mm vs. 9.1 mm, p = 0.001), as well as higher GLS values (-10.2% vs. -12.3 %, p &amp;lt; 0.001). GLS showed the highest prognostic value with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.71 (95% CI 0.63-0.79; p &amp;lt; 0.001) compared to MAPSE (AUC: 0.67, 95% CI 0.58-0.75; p = 0.001) and LVEF (AUC: 0.64, 95% CI 0.54-0.73; p = 0.005). After multivariable analysis, GLS emerged as independent predictor of MACE (HR: 1.22, 95% CI 1.11-1.35; p &amp;lt; 0.001). Of note, GLS remained associated with MACE (p &amp;lt; 0.001) even after adjustment for infarct size and microvascular obstruction. Conclusion CMR-derived GLS emerged as strong and independent predictor of MACE after acute STEMI with additive prognostic validity to LVEF and parameters of myocardial damage.

Kinetics and prognostic value of soluble VCAM-1 in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients.

BackgroundSoluble vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (sVCAM‐1) is a biomarker of endothelial activation and inflammation. There is still controversy as to whether it can predict clinical outcome after ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Our aim was to assess the sVCAM‐1 kinetics and to evaluate its prognostic predictive value.MethodWe prospectively enrolled 251 consecutive STEMI patients who underwent coronary revascularization in our university hospital. Blood samples were collected at admission, 4, 24, 48 h and 1 month after admission. sVCAM‐1 serum level was assessed using ELISA assay. All patients had cardiac magnetic resonance imaging at 1‐month for infarct size (IS) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) assessment. Clinical outcomes were recorded over 12 months after STEMI.ResultssVCAM‐1 levels significantly increased from admission up to 1 month and were significantly correlated with IS, LVEF, and LV end‐systolic and diastolic volume. (H48 area under curve (AUC) ≥ H48 median) were associated with an increased risk of adverse clinical events during the 12‐month follow‐up period with a hazard ratio (HR) = 2.6 (95% confidence interval [CI] of ratio = 1.2–5.6, p = .02). The ability of H48 AUC for sVCAM‐1 to discriminate between patients with or without the composite endpoint was evaluated using receiver operating characteristics with an AUC at 0.67 (0.57–0.78, p = .004). This ability was significantly superior to H48 AUC creatine kinase (p = .03).ConclusionsIn STEMI patients, high sVCAM‐1 levels are associated with a poor clinical outcome. sVCAM‐1 is an early postmyocardial infarction biomarker and might be an interesting target for the development of future therapeutic strategies.

The Impact of COVID-19 on In-Hospital Outcomes of ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients.

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) is one of the important clinical procedures that have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we aimed to assess the incidence and impact of COVID-19 on in-hospital clinical outcome of ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients managed with PPCI. This observational retrospective study was conducted on consecutive STEMI patients who presented to the International Cardiac Center (ICC) hospital, Alexandria, Egypt between 1 February and 31 October 2020. A group of STEMI patients presented during the same period in 2019 was also assessed (control group) and data was used for comparison. The inclusion criteria were established diagnosis of STEMI requiring PPCI.A total of 634 patients were included in the study. During the COVID-19 period, the number of PPCI procedures was reduced by 25.7% compared with previous year (mean 30.0 ± 4.01 vs. 40.4 ± 5.3 case/month) and the time from first medical contact to Needle (FMC-to-N) was longer (125.0 ± 53.6 vs. 52.6 ± 22.8 min, p = 0.001). Also, during COVID-19, the in-hospital mortality was higher (7.4 vs. 4.6%, p = 0.036) as was the incidence of re-infarction (12.2 vs. 7.7%, p = 0.041) and the need for revascularization (15.9 vs. 10.7%, p = 0.046). The incidence of heart failure, stroke, and bleeding was not different between groups, but hospital stay was longer during COVID-19 (6.85 ± 4.22 vs. 3.5 ± 2.3 day, p = 0.0025). Conclusion: At the ICC, COVID-19 pandemic contributed significantly to the PPCI management of STEMI patients with decreased number and delayed procedures. COVID-19 was also associated with higher in-hospital mortality, rate of re-infarction, need for revascularization, and longer hospital stay.

Predictive Utility of Left Heart Catheterization Indices for Left Ventricular Thrombus Formation After Anterior ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

BackgroundLeft ventricular thrombus (LVT) has a 5% incidence after anterior ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Multiple risk factors predispose to LVT formation, including left ventricular systolic dysfunction and infarct size, however measurable predictors during index left heart catheterization (LHC) have not been determined. MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of patients presenting between January 2010 and September 2017 with anterior STEMI who had in-hospital transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). LHC variables that were assessed included coronary anatomy, location of culprit stenosis, presence of diffuse stenosis, number of severely diseased vessels, apical akinesis on left ventriculogram (LVG), left ventricular end diastolic pressure, and success of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). ResultsOf 598 consecutive anterior STEMI patients, records and inpatient TTE results were available in 425 patients. The incidence of LVT was 6.8% (n = 29). After multivariate adjustment, severe triple vessel coronary disease (OR = 8.27, CI = 2.97–23.00, p ≤0.001), apical akinesis on LVG (OR = 6.74, CI = 1.48–30.73, p = 0.014), wrap-around left anterior descending (LAD) anatomy (OR = 5.10, CI = 1.97–13.23, p = 0.001), and failure of recanalization after PCI (OR = 3.94, CI = 1.06–14.66, p = 0.04) were predictors for LVT formation. The combined negative predictive value (NPV) for the absence of these four indices was 99.2%. ConclusionSevere triple vessel disease, apical akinesis on LVG during index admission, wrap-around LAD, and failure of recanalization after PCI are associated with increased risk of LVT formation after anterior STEMI. The high NPV for the absence of these indices could serve as a risk stratification tool for LVT risk to guide early TTE utilization.

COVID-19 impact on ST-elevation myocardial infarction incidence rate in a Italian STEMI network: a U-shaped curve phenomenon.

Public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 outbreak may impact on the incidence rate of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in severely affected areas. However, this phenomenon demands attention also in areas where media and patients were focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, but the healthcare system was not overwhelmed by the huge number of COVID-19 patients. In this observational study, we compared the incidence rate of all consecutive STEMI patients admitted at the University Hospital of Trieste, Italy, during March and April 2020 with the same 2 months of the previous 5 years (2015-2019). Patient characteristics were compared between 2020 and 2019.The incidence rate of STEMI admission in March-April 2020 was lower than those in March-April 2015-2019, 36 vs. 56 cases per 100 000 inhabitants/year [relative risk (RR) 0.65, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.42-0.96, P = 0.045]. Considering that the incidence rates were constant in the past years (P = 0.24), the turnaround in 2020 is most likely due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Interestingly, this reduction was a dynamic phenomenon with a U-shaped curve during the 2-month period. System-of-care times were similar between 2020 and 2019; however in 2020, patients presented more frequently signs of heart failure compared to 2019 (Killip class ≥2 in 68% vs. 29%, P = 0.003). During the COVID-19 outbreak, we observed a marked reduction in the STEMI incidence rate. This U-shaped phenomenon demands attention because a potential cause for the decrease in STEMI incidence may include the avoidance of medical care. Public campaigns aiming to increase awareness of ischemic symptoms may be needed during community outbreak.

Clinical Implication of Hypoxic Liver Injury for Predicting Hypoxic Hepatitis and In-Hospital Mortality in ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients.

PurposeIn this study, we aimed to determine the value of hypoxic liver injury (HLI) in the emergency room (ER) for predicting hypoxic hepatitis (HH) and in-hospital mortality in ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients.Materials and Methods1537 consecutive STEMI patients were enrolled. HLI in the ER was defined as a ≥2-fold increase in serum aspartate transaminase (AST). HH was defined as a ≥20-fold increase in peak serum transaminase. Patients were divided into four groups according to HLI and HH status (group 1, no HLI or HH; group 2, HLI, but no HH; group 3, no HLI, but HH; group 4, both HLI and HH).ResultsThe incidences of HLI and HH in the ER were 22% and 2%, respectively. In-hospital mortality rates were 3.1%, 11.8%, 28.6%, and 47.1% for groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Patients with HLI and/or HH had worse Killip class, higher cardiac biomarker elevations, and lower left ventricular ejection fraction. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that HLI in the ER was an independent predictor of HH [odds ratio 2.572, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.166–5.675, p=0.019]. The predictive value of HLI in the ER for the development of HH during hospitalization was favorable [area under the curve (AUC) 0.737, 95% CI 0.643–0.830, sensitivity 0.548, specificity 0.805, for cut-off value AST >80]. Furthermore, in terms of in-hospital mortality, predictive values of HLI in the ER and HH during hospitalization were comparable (AUC 0.701 for HLI at ER and AUC 0.674 for HH).ConclusionAmong STEMI patients, HLI in the ER is a significant predictor for the development of HH and mortality during hospitalization (INTERSTELLAR ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT02800421).

Myocardial infarction rates overview during COVID-19 pandemic In France: Results of the MODIF registry

BackgroundThe emergence of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has evolved into a global pandemic. Systems of care have been reorganized worldwide in an effort to preserve hospital bed capacity. In France, from March 17 to May 11 2020, government imposed a complete lockdown on the whole population. Only urgent cardiac procedures have been ensured such as ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) revascularization. Some previously published studies suggest a reduction of admission for STEMI in many countries. Nevertheless, strong evidences and data across different French regions that have been affected variously by the outbreak are still lacking.PurposeWe aimed to describe the incidence rates and characteristics of patients presenting with STEMI in order to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on STEMI care in France covering the lockdown period compared to same period one year ago.MethodsWe performed a retrospective multicenter registry across 60 French interventional cardiology centers including all consecutive STEMI patients referred for urgent revascularization in the heart catheterization laboratory between two periods: March 1st to May 31th 2020 compared with March 1st to May 31th 2019. Comprehensive data, including clinical, biological, COVID status and angiographic variables including time taken for care were recorded at admission. The primary outcome was a composite of invasive mechanical ventilation support or in-hospital death. The secondary outcome was the occurrence of myocardial infarction related complications during hospitalization. Enrollement is not complete at the time of the abstract submission.ConclusionThis data collection between two periods with and without COVID19 will gave insights for a complete descriptive cartography of STEMI patients among different French regions which have been variously impacted by the outbreak.