Future Adverse Events Research Articles

Reconstructing Maritime Incidents and Accidents Using Causal Models for Safety Improvement: Based on a Case Study

No advance in navigation has yet to prevent the occurrence of accidents (incidents are always implied when we discuss accidents) at sea. At the same time, advances in accident models are possible, and may provide the basis for investigations and analyses to help prevent future adverse events and improve the safety of marine transport systems. In such complex socio-technical systems models that treat accidents as the result of a chain or sequence of events are used most commonly. Such models are well suited to damage caused by failure of physical components in relatively simple systems. Although these often include methods for modeling human error, they do not cover broader aspects related to the management of the organization using the means of transport itself (shipowners) nor errors that may occur in the design phase. In particular, they do not cover changes in the systems over time. The paper presents accident investigation approaches and uses a modified causal model to analyze an incident that occurred in January 2019 on the city ferry in Świnoujście. The results of the analysis were used to provide guidelines for increasing safety at the crossing and to evaluate the accident analysis model used. Additionally, incidentally, through the study of this case we uncovered a problem in communication among stakeholders that unnecessarily complicates the models for the models for the improvement of safety.

Clinical Applications of Microalbuminuria

Microalbuminuria is a marker for generalized vascular dysfunction. Persistent microalbuminuria indicates a high probability of damage to the glomerular filtration capacity of the kidney and is of great diagnostic relevance. Albuminuria has also been shown more recently to be a predictor of cardiovascular outcomes. Emerging data that reduces albuminuria leads to reduced risk of adverse renal and cardiovascular events, and steps should be taken to suppress albuminuria to prevent future renal and cardiovascular adverse events. This review discusses the measurement of albuminuria and summarizes the current literature on the association between albuminuria and adverse cardiovascular and renal outcomes in type 2 diabetes and hypertension.

Work status before admission relates to prognosis in older patients with heart failure partly through social frailty

BackgroundNo reports explicitly examined the relationship between work defined as a certain type of social participation or role and the protective effect on the prognosis of patients with heart failure (HF) by preventing frailty. Therefore, this study examined whether social participation through work before admission relates to future adverse events in HF patients aged ≥65 years, and whether each frailty domain mediates the association between work and prognosis as a second analysis of a multi-centered prospective study (FRAGILE-HF study). MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed 1,332 older patients with HF whose work status before admission to the hospital were investigated. We assessed the physical, cognitive, and social domains of frailty and performed causal mediation analysis to examine the mediating relationship of each frail domain between work status before admission and 1-year combined events (HF-related readmission and all-cause death). ResultsThe subjects’ median age was 81 years, and 56.9% (758/1,332) were male. Among the three domains of frailty, work before admission reduced only social frailty after adjusting for confounding factors (odds ratio: 0.505, 95% confidence interval: 0.364-0.701). Patients with work before admission had a significantly better prognosis (hazard ratio: 0.720, 95% confidence interval: 0.523-0.989). Only social frailty partly mediated the relationship between work status and combined events (p <0.05). ConclusionsWork status before admission is associated with 1-year combined events, in part through social frailty.

Abstract 14441: Anemia is Associated With Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction and Future Adverse Outcomes in Patients With Non-Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease

Introduction: Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Anemia is an important predictor of outcomes in several cardiovascular diseases, such as heart failure and coronary artery disease (CAD), however its significance in patients with non-obstructive CAD is not fully elucidated. Hypothesis: We hypothesized that anemia would be associated with CMD and future adverse outcomes. Methods: We enrolled 1334 patients with signs and/or symptoms of ischemia and with non-obstructive CAD (&lt;50% angiographic stenosis) who underwent invasive CMD evaluation and had follow-up data. CMD was defined as coronary flow reserve (CFR) (hyperemic flow/baseline flow as measured by the doppler wire) of ≤2 in response to intracoronary adenosine injection. Anemia was defined as a Hgb &lt; 13.0 g/L in males and &lt;12.0 g/L in females. MACE was defined as any incidence of myocardial infarction, cardiac revascularization (PCI, CABG) and all-cause mortality. Results: Overall mean age was 51.3±12.4 years, 66% were female. Patients with anemia were more likely to be female and have diabetes mellitus. Anemics were more likely to be diagnosed with CMD (Odds Ratio 2.01, 95% Confidence Interval [1.14-3.54]; P = 0.02). This relationship remained significant even after adjusting for cardiovascular risk factors like age, sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia (OR 1.84, 95% CI [1.03-3.29], P = 0.04). Furthermore, patients with anemia were more likely to experience MACE (OR 1.86, 95% CI [1.30-2.66], P = 0.001), independent of possible confounders (OR 1.84, 95% CI [1.27-2.69], P = 0.002). Conclusions: Anemia is an independent predictor of CMD and future adverse cardiovascular events in patients with NOCAD. Moreover, it was associated with an increased risk of future adverse events. Further studies are needed to elucidate whether treatment of anemia in this population translates into outcomes.

Abstract 10389: Identifying High-Risk Clinical Phenogroups of Pulmonary Hypertension Through a Clustering Analysis

Introduction: The classification and management of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is challenging due to clinical and hemodynamic heterogeneity of patients. We sought to identify distinct phenogroups of PH that are at particularly high-risk for adverse events. Methods: A hospital-based cohort of patients referred for right heart catheterization between 2005-2016 with PH (mean pulmonary artery pressure &gt; 20 mmHg at rest) were included. Key exclusion criteria were shock, cardiac arrest, cardiac transplant or valvular surgery. K-prototypes, an unsupervised clustering algorithm, was used to cluster patients into subgroups based on 11 clinical covariates. The optimal number of clusters was determined using the silhouette method. Results: Among 5208 patients with mean age 64 (SD 12) years, 39% women, we identified 6 phenogroups when clustering on baseline clinical comorbidities ( Table 1 ). Phenogroups 2 and 4 had the greatest baseline prevalence of heart failure (both) and diabetes (group 4). Over a median follow-up of 6.3 (IQR 3.6 to 9.8) years we observed 2182 deaths and 2002 major cardiovascular events (MACE). Phenogroups 2 and 4 had the highest risk for future adverse events including death (age and sex adjusted HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.05-1.68 and 1.42, 95% CI 1.13-1.77, each compared with the lowest risk group 3 respectively) and MACE (HR 5.97, 95% CI 4.83-7.38 and 4.06, 95% CI 3.30-4.99, compared with group 3 respectively; Figure 1 ). Conclusions: Cluster-based analyses identify patients with PH and specific comorbid cardiovascular burden that are at higher risk for adverse clinical outcomes. Further studies are needed to better understand clinical heterogeneity among patients with PH.

TCT-89 Morphological Characteristics of Thin-Cap Fibroatheroma Lesions in Patients With and Without Future Adverse Events: Insights From the COMBINE (OCT-FFR) Study

TCT-89 Morphological Characteristics of Thin-Cap Fibroatheroma Lesions in Patients With and Without Future Adverse Events: Insights From the COMBINE (OCT-FFR) Study

Carotid Plaque Composition Assessed by CT Predicts Subsequent Cardiovascular Events among Subjects with Carotid Stenosis.

Currently, the characteristics of carotid plaques are considered important factors for identifying subjects at high risk of stroke. This study aimed to test the hypothesis that carotid plaque composition assessed by CTA is associated with an increased risk of future major adverse cardiovascular events among asymptomatic subjects with moderate-to-severe carotid artery stenosis. This single-center, retrospective cohort study included 194 carotid plaques from 176 asymptomatic subjects with moderate-to-severe carotid artery stenosis. The association of CTA-determined plaque composition with the risk of subsequent adverse cardiovascular events was analyzed. During a median follow-up of 41 months, the adverse cardiovascular event incidence among 194 carotid plaques was 19.6%. There were significant differences in plaque Hounsfield units (P < .001) and spotty calcium presence (P < .001) between carotid plaques from subjects with and without subsequent adverse cardiovascular events. Multivariable analysis revealed carotid plaque Hounsfield unit density (P < .001) and spotty calcium (P < .001) as independent predictors of subsequent adverse cardiovascular events. In association with moderate carotid artery stenosis, the plaque Hounsfield unit values were significantly lower among carotid plaques from subjects who experienced subsequent adverse cardiovascular events (P = .002), strokes (P = .01), and cardiovascular deaths (P = .04); the presence of spotty calcium was significantly associated with the occurrence of adverse cardiovascular events (P = .001), acute coronary syndrome (P = .01), and cardiovascular death (P = .04). Carotid plaque Hounsfield unit density and spotty calcium were independent predictors of a greater risk of adverse cardiovascular event occurrence.

The role of IL-6 receptor trans-signalling in ischemia-reperfusion injury, infarct healing and future adverse events in patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Abstract Background Inflammation has emerged as a new treatment target in patients with coronary artery disease, and inflammation seems to play an important role in the ischemia/reperfusion injury in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6 (IL-6) has been shown to be associated with myocardial injury and poor prognosis in patients with STEMI. Purpose The aim of the study was to further elucidate possible associations between the IL-6 trans-signalling system and final infarct size, myocardial function, adverse remodelling, and future cardiovascular events in patients with STEMI. Methods A total of 272 patients with first-time STEMI included in the POSTEMI study on ischaemic postconditioning, with symptom duration &amp;lt;6 hours and treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), were included. Blood samples for analysis of IL-6 and IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) were collected before PCI, immediately after PCI, at day 1 (median 18.3 hours after PCI), and at 4 months follow-up. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) was performed in the acute phase, median 2 days after admission, and repeated after 4 months. Clinical events and all-cause mortality were registered during 12 months' and 70 months' follow-up, respectively. Results There was a significant increase in IL-6 levels from admission to day 1 with a subsequent decline from day 1 to 4 months (Figure 1A). No significant change in IL-6R levels were found from admission to day 1 (Figure 1B). There was no difference between patients treated by postconditioning compared to routine PCI. High levels of IL-6 (&amp;gt; median) at all sampling points were significantly associated with increased infarct size and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) measured by CMR. Additionally, high levels of IL-6 (&amp;gt; median) at day 1 were associated with lower myocardial salvage, more presence of microvascular obstruction and larger increase in indexed LV end diastolic volume (LVEDVi). IL-6R measured during hospitalisation was significantly associated with change in LVEDVi, but did not associate with infarct size, LVEF or myocardial salvage. High levels of IL-6 (&amp;gt;75th percentile) at all sampling points were associated with an increased risk of having an adverse clinical event during the first year and with long-term all-cause mortality (Figure 2), whereas there was no association between IL-6R and adverse clinical events. Conclusion Patients with high IL-6 levels during the acute phase of STEMI had larger infarct size, reduced myocardial salvage, reduced LV function and worse clinical outcome than patients with lower levels of IL-6. High levels of IL-6 measured after 4 months were associated with larger infarct size, reduced LVEF and increased all-cause mortality. IL-6R was significantly associated with increase in LVEDVi. The results add important information to the role of IL-6 in myocardial injury in acute STEMI and the IL-6 pathway as a potential treatment target. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Stein Erik Hagen Foundation for Clinical Heart Research, Oslo, Norway. Figure 1Figure 2

Remnant cholesterol is an independent determinant of the presence and extent of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis in statin-naive individuals

Abstract Background Despite continuous improvements of diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms for cardiovascular disease (CVD), mortality from CVD remains high suggesting unaddressed residual risk. Remnant cholesterol (RC) consists the cholesterol content of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, which along with LDL cholesterol infiltrate the arterial wall, accumulate and cause atherosclerosis. Increased remnant cholesterol (RC) levels have been previously associated with future adverse cardiac events despite hypolipidemic therapy. However, a mechanistic association of RC levels with human atherosclerosis in vivo has not been proven in a clinical setting. Purpose To evaluate the association of RC levels with the presence and extend of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, 438 subjects from the Athens Vascular Registry without clinically overt CVD or treatment with statin were recruited. Atherosclerotic burden was assessed by B-mode carotid ultrasonography using: 1. Maximal carotid wall thickness [maxWT, the highest intima-media thickness (IMT) or highest atherosclerotic plaque thickness (PLQ) if present derived from all carotid sites], 2. Total thickness (sumWT, sum of maximal wall thickness), 3) high plaque burden (PLQ ≥2) and 4) average carotid IMT (avgIMT). RC was calculated using the formula RC=total cholesterol-LDL-C-HDL-C. Results Mean (SD) age was 54.8±12.4 years old with 41% being males. Subjects with RC&amp;gt;median (=18mg/dl) had higher sumWT (6.12±0.7 vs 5.57±1.7, p=0.002), maxWT (1.61±0.7 vs 1.43±0.7, p=0.008) and avgIMT (0.88±0.16 vs 0.83±0.16, p=0.003) vs RC&amp;lt;median.&amp;gt;median was associated with higher odds for increased sumWT (highest tertile, OR: 2.15 95% CI 1.26–3.66, p=0.006) and maxWT (OR: 2.15 95% CI: 1.38–3.33, p=0.001), and a higher plaque burden (≥2 plaques, OR: 2.1 95% CI 1.93–3.1, p&amp;lt;0.001) after adjustment for age, gender and systolic blood pressure, glomerular filtration rate, smoking, diabetes mellitus, body mass index and LDL-C Conclusion In a statin-naive population without clinically overt CVD, increased RC levels were associated with the presence and extend of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis. These findings provide novel mechanistic insight into mechanisms associated with increased CVD risk in individuals with high RC levels. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Troponin to risk stratify patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome for computed tomography coronary angiography

Abstract Background Patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome in whom myocardial infarction has been ruled-out are at risk of future adverse cardiac events. However, the optimal approach to risk stratify and investigate these patients is uncertain. Methods We performed a prospective cohort study of 250 patients presenting to the Emergency Department with suspected acute coronary syndrome and troponin concentrations below the sex-specific 99th centile (16 ng/L for women and 34 ng/L for men). Patients were recruited in a 2:1 fashion stratified by peak high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I concentration above and below the early rule-out threshold of 5 ng/L (167 patients with intermediate troponin concentrations between 5 ng/L and the sex-specific 99th centile threshold and 83 patients with troponin concentrations &amp;lt;5 ng/L). All patients underwent computed tomography coronary angiography after they were discharged from hospital. Results Overall, 37.6% (94/250) of patients had normal coronary arteries whilst 36.0% (90/250) and 26.4% (66/250) had non-obstructive and obstructive coronary artery disease, respectively. Patients with intermediate troponin concentrations were more likely to have coronary artery disease than those with troponin concentrations &amp;lt;5 ng/L (71.9% [120/167] versus 43.4% [36/83]; odds ratio 3.33 [95% confidence interval 1.92–5.78]). This association persisted irrespective of whether patients had anginal symptoms. Conversely, there was no difference in the prevalence of coronary artery disease between those with and without anginal symptoms (63.2% [67/106] and versus 61.8% [89/144]; odds ratio 0.92 [0.48–1.76]). The majority of patients found to have coronary artery disease did not have a prior diagnosis and were not on optimal preventative medical therapy prior to undergoing computed tomography coronary angiography (50.8% [61/120] and 61.0% [22/36], versus 61.7% [74/120] and 69.4% [25/36] in patients with intermediate versus low troponin concentrations, respectively). Conclusions In patients with suspected acute coronary syndrome who have myocardial infarction ruled out, those with intermediate cardiac troponin concentrations are three-times more likely to have coronary artery disease than those with low troponin concentrations. Conversely anginal symptoms did not discriminate between those with and without coronary artery disease. Further studies are required to determine if targeting computed tomography coronary angiography to those with intermediate cardiac troponin concentrations can improve the use of preventative medical therapies and clinical outcomes. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Foundation. Main funding source(s): The British Heart Foundation Odds ratio of coronary artery diseaseCumulative proportion with CAD

Smoking habit does not differentiate young patients with first diagnosed and never treated hypertensive disease regarding blood pressure levels and hypertension mediated organ damage

Abstract Background Early onset hypertension is associated with a considerably greater risk for CVD mortality compared with hypertension that begins later in life. Aim of this study is the evaluation of cardiovascular risk (CV) factors and hypertension mediated organ damage (HMOD) in young patients with first diagnosed and never treated hypertensive disease regarding smoking habit. Methods From a cohort of 520 non-diabetic and first diagnosed and never treated hypertensive patients, we studied those patients aged &amp;lt;50 years (n=216, age=42±7, 149 males). Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (24-h ABPM), cardiovascular risk factors [smoking, obesity (BMI), hyperlipidemia (HDL-C, LDL-C)] and HOMD [aortic stiffness (PWV), left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (E/Ea), cardiac hypertrophy (LVMI), coronary arteries microcirculation (CFR), carotid intima-media thickness (IMT), endothelial function (PBR5–25)] were estimated in each young patient before treatment initiation. Results Young patients' population was divided regarding smoking habit in Group A (smokers, n=89, age=42±7, 64 males) and Group B (non-smokers, n=127, age=42±6, 85 males). While increased LDL-C (p=0.002), decreased HDL-C levels (p&amp;lt;0.001) and augmented 24-h systolic and diastolic BP variability (p=0.001 and p=0.03, respectively) were revealed in Group A, no other differences were found between groups regarding BMI, 24-h ABPM and HMOD. Conclusion In early phases of arterial hypertension disease, young people have similar BP and HMOD burden despite the pre-existence of smoking habit and hyperlipidemia. Subsequently, there is still time for combined treatment of these three risk factors (smoking, hyperlipidemia, arterial hypertension) and prevention of future CV adverse events. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Young hypertensives and smoking

Optimal measurement location of on-site based CT-derived FFR on midterm prognosis

Abstract Background Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) derived from coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) enables anatomical and hemodynamical assessment of coronary artery disease. CT-FFR, which can be acquired on-site workstation using fluid structure interaction during the multiple optimal diastolic phase, has an incremental diagnostic value over conventional CCTA. However, few studies are focused on investigating the appropriate measurement location of CT-FFR, considering the prognosis, using CCTA as a standalone modality. Purpose The aim of this study is to assess the clinical impact on CT-FFR with an appropriate measurement. Methods A total of 370 consecutive patients who underwent CCTA in a single-heartbeat scan with a phase window of 70% to 99% of the R-R interval, showing 50–90% stenosis of at least one major epicardial vessel measuring ≥1.8 mm in diameter on CCTA were retrospectively analyzed and followed during a median follow up 2.9 years. CT-FFR values were measured at three points: 1, 2 cm distal to a target lesion (CT-FFR1cm, 2cm) and the vessel terminus (CT-FFRlowest), and a CT-FFR value ≤0.80 was considered abnormal. The endpoint was MACE, a composite of cardiac death, non-fatal MI, and unplanned revascularization. Results The incidence of MACE occurred in 8.4% (31/370) of the whole patients, including four cardiac deaths, ten all cause deaths, two non-fatal MI, and twenty unplanned revascularization. The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated a significantly higher cumulative MACE rate in patients with positive CT-FFR1cm and 2cm than those with negative CT-FFR1cm and 2cm, while there was no significant difference between negative and positive in CT-FFRlowest, among patients with negative CT-FFR1cm and 2cm (Figure 1). Among 221 patients, who did not perform early revascularization within 90 days from CCTA, there was no significant difference in CT-FFRlowest in the incidence of MACE. In contrast, the risk of MACE was significantly higher in both positive CT-FFR1cm and CT-FFR2cm (Figure 2). Conclusion From a view point of clinical outcome for patients with moderate to severe stenosis on CCTA, a CT-FFR value when measured at 1-to-2 cm distal to a target lesion could be feasible for the deferral of unnecessary invasive coronary angiography safely. Moreover, CT-FFR1–2cm showed better risk stratification measurement rather than CT-FFRlowest, based on future adverse cardiac event. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Canon Medical Systems Corporation Kaplan-Meier 1Kaplan-Meier 2

Impact of polypharmacy on prognosis in patients with acute decompensated heart failure: from the CURE-HF registry

Abstract Background Polypharmacy would be associated with poor prognosis in patients with heart failure (HF). Methods In 863 patients who discharged after treatment for HF were prospectively enrolled. Number of tablets prescribed at discharge was counted. Death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, and hospitalization for HF were tracked. Results In our study cohort (median age, 78), 447 patients experienced adverse events during median 503 days follow-up. In Kaplan-Meier analysis, a greater number of prescribed tablets was associated with future adverse cardiac events in the crude population. Although patients with the greater number of non-HF medications showed worse outcome, those of HF medications were not associate with the outcome (Figure). Furthermore, the number of tablets was an independent predictor of future cardiovascular events after adjustment for age, gender, B-type natriuretic peptide, hemoglobin, albumin, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and left ventricular ejection fraction (HR 95% CI: 1.295 (1.066–1.573), p=0.009). Conclusions Polypharmacy was associated with poor prognosis. Although the numbers of tablets and non-HF medications were significantly associated with worse out come in HF patients, the number of HF medications was not. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Forecasts and demographic development of the population of Fergana Valley regions of Uzbekistan until 2040

&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D; The world's population is growing rapidly and today exceeds 7.8 billion people. World population growth is expected to slow down slowly in the future. A decade ago, the world's population increased by 1.24 percent; today it is 1.1 percent, an increase of 83 million a year. The world's population is expected to reach 8.6 billion by 2030. (UNFPA 2015). This creates a regional imbalance between population growth and the development of employment, production and social infrastructure. Information is needed on the creation of new jobs in the regions, for planning the construction of preschool institutions, schools, higher and secondary specialized educational institutions, how many children will be able to attend preschool institutions in the future, how many children will reach school age and how many children will be transfered to specialized secondary and higher education, how much the labor force will increase. The population of Uzbekistan is constantly growing. From 1991 to 2020, the country's population increased by 1.7 times. For comparison: during this period, the population of neighboring Kyrgyzstan increased by 1.3 times, the population of Kazakhstan – by 1.02 times, the population of Tajikistan – by 1.5 times, the population of Turkmenistan – by 1.4 times. During the years of independence in Uzbekistan, special attention was paid to demographic issues based on the population and the human factor, the principles of a healthy mother and a healthy child. The course of demographic processes changes in accordance with the natural, socio-economic geographical conditions of the regions (Tojieva Z. N. 2019). The Fergana Valley is the most densely populated region of Uzbekistan with a small territory, a large demographic load and the largest demographic potential (Abdullaev O. 2000). Land resources with limited, high demographic pressure require research aimed at identifying, predicting and preventing future adverse events specific to the development of demographic processes in the regions of the valley. The article makes a forecast for 2025–2040 and draws conclusions using the method of age shift of the population of regions, districts and cities of the Fergana Valley, demographic regions and gender and age composition.&#x0D; &#x0D; &#x0D;

Study the Value of Interleukin-6 As Diagnostic and Predictive marker of Cardiac Events in St Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Abstract Background Owing to major changes in the biomarkers available for diagnosis, criteria for acute myocardial infarction have been revised. The current international consensus definition states that the term acute myocardial infarction (AMI) should be used when there is evidence of myocardial necrosis in a clinical setting consistent with myocardial ischemia. The present guidelines pertain to patients presenting with ischemic symptoms and persistent ST-segment elevation on the electrocardiogram (ECG). Most of these patients will show a typical rise in biomarkers of myocardial necrosis and progress to Q wave myocardial infarction. Separate guidelines have recently been developed by another task force of the ESC (European Society of Cardiology) for patients presenting with ischemic symptoms but without persistent ST segment elevation and for patients undergoing myocardial revascularization in general. Aim of the work The aims of this work are: To assess the diagnostic value of interleukin-6 compared to troponin I in ST segment elevation myocardial infarction. To assess the predictive value of elevated interleukin-6 in ST segment elevation myocardial infarction. Patients This prospective study was included sixty adult patients of both sexes meeting the American Heart Association (AHA) recommendations for diagnosis of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction from those attending the Critical Care Units, Critical Care Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University to be included in the current study. Inclusion Criteria :Patients were fulfilled the criteria of diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and diagnosed as ST segment elevation MI according to American Heart Association (AHA) criteria which include patient ranging between 30 to 70 years and presented with active chest pain. Exclusion Criteria Patients were excluded from the study if they have: (1) Recent myocardial infarction in the last three months. (2) Recent cardiological intervention in the last three months. (3) Recent ischemic cerebrovascular stroke in the last three months. (4) Non ST segment elevation myocardial infarction and unstable angina according to electrocardiographic changes, cardiac markers and clinical condition of the patients. (5) Acute infectious diseases that leads to elevation of troponin I and interleukin-6. (6) Active immunological diseases. (7) Renal impairment. Methods The following data were obtained from each patient: Personal data: name, age, sex, occupation and special habits e.g. smoking. History of present illness regarding to clinical condition: onset, nature, duration, course, progression, characteristic site and radiating areas of the chest pain, relieving and aggravating factors, associated symptoms (as diaphoresis, nausea, vomiting, dyspnea and palpitation) and medication received and their effects. Medical history of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension (HTN), and history of ischemic heart disease (IHD). Family history of IHD, DM and HTN. Conclusion From this current study we revealed that: STEMI patients have increased level of interleukin-6 compared to those normal persons. Interleukin-6 may be a potentially useful marker for diagnosis of STEMI. Interleukin-6 may be helpful prognostic value for future cardiac mortality in STEMI patients. The level of interleukin-6 is not affected by the extent of myocardial damage and necrosis. Interleukin-6 is an inflammatory cytokine. Recommendations From this study we recommend the use of interleukin-6 level as good diagnostic marker for diagnosis of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction, Also this study recommend the use of interleukin-6 as good prognostic inflammatory marker in future adverse cardiac events and mortality occur after myocardial infarction STEMI type. Study limitations The results are interpreted in consideration of the small population of patients and short term follow up.

Troponin-Guided Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography After Exclusion of Myocardial Infarction

BackgroundPatients with suspected acute coronary syndrome in whom myocardial infarction has been excluded are at risk of future adverse cardiac events. ObjectivesThis study evaluated the usefulness of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) to select patients for further investigation after myocardial infarction has been excluded. MethodsThis is a prospective cohort study of patients presenting to the emergency department with suspected acute coronary syndrome and hs-cTnI concentrations below the sex-specific 99th percentile. Patients were recruited in a 2:1 fashion, stratified by peak hs-cTnI concentration above and below the risk stratification threshold of 5 ng/L. All patients underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) after hospital discharge. ResultsOverall, 250 patients were recruited (61.4 ± 12.2 years 31% women) in whom 62.4% (156 of 250 patients) had coronary artery disease (CAD). Patients with intermediate hs-cTnI concentrations (between 5 ng/L and the sex-specific 99th percentile) were more likely to have CAD than those with hs-cTnI concentrations <5 ng/L (71.9% [120 of 167 patients] vs 43.4% [36 of 83 patients]; odds ratio: 3.33; 95% CI: 1.92-5.78). Conversely, there was no association between anginal symptoms and CAD (63.2% [67 of 106 patients] vs 61.8% [89 of 144 patients]; odds ratio: 0.92; 95% CI: 0.48-1.76). Most patients with CAD did not have a previous diagnosis (53.2%; 83 of 156 patients) and were not on antiplatelet and statin therapies (63.5%; 99 of 156 patients) before they underwent CCTA. ConclusionsIn patients who had myocardial infarction excluded, CAD was 3× more likely in those with intermediate hs-cTnI concentrations compared with low hs-cTnI concentrations. In such patients, CCTA could help to identify those with occult CAD and to target preventative treatments, thereby improving clinical outcomes.

Bidirectional Sling Technique with Biopsy Forceps for Inferior Vena Cava Filter Retrieval.

Although the importance of the retrieval of an optional inferior vena cava filter (o-IVCF) has gained attention because of the awareness of a high complication rate with long indwelling time, the o-IVCF retrieval rate remains low. The advanced retrieval technique of o-IVCF may increase the retrieval rate, which in turn diminishes future adverse events. Through two cases, we describe how to perform the novel approach “bidirectional sling technique with biopsy forceps.” This technique will improve the retrieval rate in patients following the failure by conventional retrieval technique.

Increased QT Dispersion and High Risk of Ventricular Arrhythmias is Associated with Hyperuricemia in Individuals with Normal Renal Function

Abstract Background and aim: Uric acid elevation has been shown to be an important risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrobascular disease. QT dispersion (QTd) is a parameter that shows the heterogeneity of ventricular repolarization and can be calculated noninvasively from surface electrocardiography. Increased QTd has been associated with severe arrhythmia and risk of sudden death in many patients and disease groups. In this context, we aimed to investigate the effect of uric acid levels on QTd and the effects of decrease in uric acid levels on QTd. Methods: A total of 225 patients with normal renal function were included in the study; 133 of these patients were hyperuricemic (&gt;7 mg/dL), and the remaining 72 patients were normouricemic (Group 1). The hyperuricemic patients were randomly divided into 2 groups, one group (n = 67) was given placebo (Group 2) for 4 months, and the remaining 66 patients were given allopurinol 300 mg/day (Group 3). Results: Hyperuricemic patients had higher hsCRP and QTd and lower eGFR values compared to the normouricemic control group. After 4 months of treatment, 66 patients treated with allopurinol showed a significant decrease in serum uric acid, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and hsCRP levels, and a significant increase in eGFR. Although the QTd values in the treatment group did not decrease to the same levels as in the normouricemic control group, a statistically significant decrease was found compared to their baseline values. In hyperuricemic control and normouricemic control patients, there were no differences in the levels of uric acid, hsCRP, eGFR, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and QTd values compared to baseline values. Conclusions: There was a significant association between elevated serum uric acid and QTd, as well as with inflammatory biomarkers. Also, patients who had received hypouricemic therapy during the follow-up period presented a significant decrease in inflammatory markers as well as QTd. This indicates the beneficial effects of decreasing uric acid levels in decreasing the risk for future major adverse events related to ventricular arrhythmias.

The critical role of learning from investigating and debriefing adverse events

Debriefing after and learning from adverse surgical events is becoming an integral component of our clinical practices and hospital systems. Morbidity and mortality conferences have been the foundation for this process; however, the approach has evolved to be more constructive with root cause analyses and identification of action items to prevent future adverse events. Additional quality improvement resources include the voluntary National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) databases, which provide seeds for a systematic process of improving patient care. With large databases come not only a route for studying outcome expectedness but also an objective numeric source for development of risk scores to stratify patients and assist with shared decision making. There is also recognition of the collateral damage of adverse events, which, includes the second victims defined as the individuals other than the patient. After an adverse event the second victim can either thrive, just survive or drop-out, and institutional systems should be in place to care for this victim and prevent their travel down the road to burnout. As a contemporaneous topic, burnout impacts not only surgeon wellness but also negatively affects the clinical workforce, which includes nurses in addition to physicians. “To err is human” but to care is ethereal.

Thin-cap fibroatheroma predicts clinical events in diabetic patients with normal fractional flow reserve: the COMBINE OCT-FFR trial.

The aim of this study was to understand the impact of optical coherence tomography (OCT)-detected thin-cap fibroatheroma (TCFA) on clinical outcomes of diabetes mellitus (DM) patients with fractional flow reserve (FFR)-negative lesions. COMBINE OCT-FFR study was a prospective, double-blind, international, natural history study. After FFR assessment, and revascularization of FFR-positive lesions, patients with ≥1 FFR-negative lesions (target lesions) were classified in two groups based on the presence or absence of ≥1 TCFA lesion. The primary endpoint compared FFR-negative TCFA-positive patients with FFR-negative TCFA-negative patients for a composite of cardiac mortality, target vessel myocardial infarction, clinically driven target lesion revascularization or unstable angina requiring hospitalization at 18 months. Among 550 patients enrolled, 390 (81%) patients had ≥1 FFR-negative lesions. Among FFR-negative patients, 98 (25%) were TCFA positive and 292 (75%) were TCFA negative. The incidence of the primary endpoint was 13.3% and 3.1% in TCFA-positive vs. TCFA-negative groups, respectively (hazard ratio 4.65; 95% confidence interval, 1.99-10.89; P < 0.001). The Cox regression multivariable analysis identified TCFA as the strongest predictor of major adverse clinical events (MACE) (hazard ratio 5.12; 95% confidence interval 2.12-12.34; P < 0.001). Among DM patients with ≥1 FFR-negative lesions, TCFA-positive patients represented 25% of this population and were associated with a five-fold higher rate of MACE despite the absence of ischaemia. This discrepancy between the impact of vulnerable plaque and ischaemia on future adverse events may represent a paradigm shift for coronary artery disease risk stratification in DM patients.