Higher 1-year Mortality Research Articles

Intraprocedural 3D-vena contracta area predicts survival after transcatheter edge-to-edge repair: results from MITRA-PRO registry.

The MITRA-PRO registry revealed residual mitral regurgitation (MR) to be an important predictor of survival following transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER). Intraprocedural MR assessment using 3D-Vena Contracta Area (VCA) might be a feasible tool to guide mitral TEER procedures. The study aimed to assess the impact of residual MR assessed by 3D-VCA on 1-year mortality. 823 patients with residual MR quantification using 3D-VCA in the MITRA-PRO registry, were included in this study. 1-year mortality, NYHA classification and major adverse events were assessed 1-year after mitral TEER. Patients with trace residual MR after mitral TEER were allocated to the 3D-VCA < 0.1 cm2 group (27.8%), while a 3D-VCA ≥ 0.1 < 0.3 cm2 (55.4%) was considered as mild and a 3D-VCA ≥ 0.3 cm2 (16.8%) as relevant residual MR. One-year mortality was significantly lower in patients with non-relevant residual MR (3D-VCA < 0.1 cm2: 10.5%; ≥ 0.1 < 0.3 cm2: 16.0%; ≥ 0.3: 24.8%, p = 0.003). An increasing 3D-VCA post mitral TEER was associated with a higher 1-year mortality. At a 3D-VCA of 0.07 cm2 mortality increased significantly (1-year mortality 3D-VCA post mitral TEER ≥ 0.07 cm2: 16.5% vs. < 0.07 cm2: 7.8%; p = 0.005) indicating a 3D-VCA of 0.07 cm2 to be a cut-off value for survival in daily practice. Residual MR assessed by 3D-VCA after TEER is associated with 1-year mortality. Therefore, 3D-VCA is a valuable echocardiographic tool for intraprocedural MR assessment during mitral TEER and achieving a lower 3D-VCA improve patient survival. (German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00012288). DRKS00012288.

Predictors of mortality among older adults discharged to or readmitted from a skilled nursing facility.

Previous studies have shown that patients who are readmitted to the hospital from a skilled nursing facility (SNF) have a higher mortality rate. The objective of this study is to determine factors associated with high mortality rate for older adults who require hospital readmission while on presumed short stay in SNF to trigger a goals-of-care discussion. Retrospective study of 847 patients aged 65 and above who were discharged from 1 large urban academic medical center to multiple SNF in 2019. Charts of 847 patients admitted to SNF after an acute hospital stay were reviewed; their overall 1-year mortality rate was 28.3%. The 1-year mortality rate among individuals readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge to SNF was 50%, whereas for those who did not require readmission, the rate was 22%. For the most common diagnostic categories of nervous system, and musculoskeletal, patients with readmission to hospital within 30 days of discharge to SNF had a roughly threefold higher 1-year mortality rate. Worse frailty score on hospital readmission, poor nutrition, and weight loss were the most impactful individual factors carrying a higher degree of mortality of up to 83%. Hospital discharge to SNF and readmission from SNF within 30 days, further decline in functional status, and malnutrition characterize high-risk groups that should trigger care preference and prognostic discussions with patients as these events may be markers of vulnerability and are associated with high 1-year mortality rates.

Aggressive Intravenous Hydration and a Defined Plant-Based Diet Safely and Effectively Treated Type 5 Cardiorenal Syndrome with Stage E Heart Failure-Related Cardiogenic Shock: A Case Report

Background and Clinical Significance: Heart failure and kidney diseases often coexist and are difficult to clinically manage. Dysfunction in either organ exacerbates dysfunction in the other, potentially leading to cardiorenal syndrome (CRS). CRS has five different subtypes, with CRS type 5 being the most problematic given that it consists of an acute insult superimposed upon chronic CRS. Additionally, type 5 CRS can be complicated by heart failure-related cardiogenic shock (HF-CS), which is associated with increased hospitalizations and has a high 1-year mortality rate. The standard treatment for patients with HF-CS consists of guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) as tolerated, along with inotropic therapies and surgical mechanical left ventricular (LV) support, guided by invasive hemodynamic monitoring. Case Presentation: This case study reports the presentation of a 57-year-old man who presented with type 5 CRS who rapidly decompensated to stage E HF-CS and was effectively and safely treated with aggressive intravenous hydration, a defined plant-based diet (DPBD), and reduction of guideline-directed prescription medications without invasive hemodynamic monitoring. Conclusions: Hydration, a DPBD, and a reduction in medication burden may be effective in CRS. Pilot studies are warranted to evaluate the efficacy of this intervention in CRS in a larger cohort.

Hospitalized Advanced HeartFailure With Preserved vs Reduced Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction: A Global Perspective.

Outcomes of hospitalized patients with heart failure (HF) and characteristics of advanced HF stage may vary across left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and world regions. This study sought to analyze characteristics of hospitalized advanced HF patients across LVEF spectrum, world regions, and country income. Among 18,553 hospitalized patients with acute HF (7,902 new-onset HF and 10,651 decompensated chronic HF) enrolled in the global registry REPORT-HF (International Registry to Assess Medical Practice With Longitudinal Observation for Treatment of HeartFailure), we analyzed characteristics and outcomes of patients with advanced HF, defined as previously diagnosed HF; severe symptoms before current admission (NYHA functional class III/IV); and≥1 HF-related hospitalization in the preceding 12months, excluding the current. Differences among hospitalized advanced HF subgroups stratified by LVEF, world region, and country income were examined. Among 6,999 patients with decompensated chronic HF and available previous NYHA functional class and HF hospitalization status, 3,397 (48.5%; 18.3% of the total population) had advanced HF. Of these, 44.5% had severely reduced (≤30%), 34.9% mildly/moderately reduced (31%-49%), and 20.7% preserved (≥50%) LVEF. Patients from Eastern Europe had the lowest 1-year mortality (23%), whereas those from Southeast Asia had the highest (37%). Patients from lower-middle-income countries were younger, with shorter HF duration and lower comorbidity prevalence, received fewer beta-blockers and HF-devices, and had higher 1-year mortality (34%) than upper-middle- (26%) or high-income countries (27%; P=0.018). Adjusted 1-year mortality risk did not differ among LVEF subgroups (all P > 0.05), nor did 1-year HF hospitalization rate (P=0.56). Hospitalized patients with advanced HF and preserved LVEF had similarly adverse outcomes as those with reduced LVEF. Patients from lower-middle-income countries had less implementation of HF therapies and higher 1-year mortality.

Relationship between clinical congestion and worsening renal function after intravenous initiation of furosemide in patients with acute heart failure.

To investigate if worsening renal function (WRF) appearing in some patients with acute heart failure (AHF) after intravenous furosemide initiation is influenced by severity of congestion. We conducted a retrospective secondary analysis of consecutive patients diagnosed with AHF and prospectively included in 10 Spanish emergency departments (EDs) for whom serum creatinine at ED arrival and after 2-7days of intravenous furosemide initiation were available. Congestion was clinically evaluated by identification of 7 signs/symptoms and by chest X-ray. The outcome was WRF, defined as a delta-creatinine ≥ 0.3mg/dL. Risk of WRF according to congestion was estimated in models adjusted by patient baseline characteristics and vitals at ED arrival, and interaction was also investigated. We included 3027 patients (median age 82years, 56% women), and 657 (21.7%) presented WRF after intravenous furosemide initiation. When signs/symptoms were individually considered, only lower limbs edema was associated with decreased risk of WRF (20.1% vs. 24.8%; OR = 0.76, 95%CI = 0.64-0.91). After adjustment, lower limbs edema persisted inversely associated with WRF (aOR = 0.78, 95%CI = 0.65-0.94), with significant lower risk for patients ≤ 80years and without chronic kidney disease, functional limitation, and hypoxemia (p for interaction 0.01, 0.04, 0.02 and 0.03, respectively). Neither degree of clinical congestion (number of signs/symptoms of congestion) nor radiological congestion in chest X-ray were related to WRF. Worsening renal function was associated with a higher 1-year all-cause mortality (40.1% vs 34.6%; HR = 1.27, 1.10-1.46; aHR = 1.331, 1.151-1.540). In patients with WRF, liver cirrhosis, chronic treatment with loop diuretics and renin-angiotensin system inhibitors, age (> 80years), dementia, heart valve disease and NYHA class III-IV were associated with higher mortality. Intravenous furosemide initiation in patients with AHF without lower limbs edema must be cautious, as they are at increasing risk of developing WRF during the next following days, which in turn is associated with a higher 1-year mortality.

Clinical impact of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in frail patients: a single-center prospective study

Abstract Introduction Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) stands as an effective treatment option for symptomatic severe aortic stenosis, applicable across all surgical risk spectrum. Registries show that up to 60% of these patients exhibit at least one marker of frailty. Frailty has been associated with higher 1-year mortality rates and heightened susceptibility to complications. Conservative treatment, however, has a poor prognosis, with mortality ranging from 30-60% within a year after diagnosis. Objective The primary objective was to assess the clinical impact of TAVI implantation in the frail population. A secondary objective was to assess the occurrence of in-hospital and short-term (30 days) complications. Methods Observational, prospective, single-center study that included all patients with TAVI implantation in our unit in 2023. Frailty was assessed by an interventional cardiologist according to the Rockwood Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) or Frailty Scale, assigning a score from 1 to 9, with patients being classified as high CFS if they scored ≥5 points or low CFS if &amp;lt;5 points. Results Out of the 298 patients included, 45 (15%) had high CFS vs 253 (85%) with low CFS. Significant differences were found in age (83.3±5.3 years for high CFS vs 79.4±5.8 years for low CFS;p&amp;lt;0.01), gender (60% of females for high CFS vs 43.9% for low CFS;p=0.046) and baseline haemoglobin (12.2±1.5 g/dL for high CFS vs 12.9±1.8 g/dL for low CFS;p=0.008). Other baseline characteristics remained comparable. Patients with high CFS had greater baseline dyspnoea according to the YHA scale (NYHA III-IV 71.1% for high CFS vs 37.9% for low CFS;p&amp;lt;0.001) with greater diuretic use (71.1% for high CFS vs 51% for low CFS;p=0.013). Patients with high CFS had a greater need for a preferential/urgent procedure (p=0.044). There were no differences in the occurrence of complications: stroke (p=0.463), bleeding (p=0.667), vascular complications (p=0.234); except for a higher occurrence of complete AV block (22.3% for high CFS vs 8.7% for low CFS;p=0.024). In-hospital mortality rates showed no differences (0% for high CFS vs 1.6% for low CFS;p=0.396). At 1-month follow-up, there was a significant reduction in NYHA dyspnoea grade within the high CFS group (71.1% NYHA III-IV pre-TAVI vs 2.3% post-TAVI; p&amp;lt;0.001). There was no difference in the incidence of stroke (p=0.375), heart failure readmissions (p=0.734), and vascular complications (p=0.66). There was no difference in all-cause mortality (4.4% for high CFS vs 3.2% for low CFS;p=0.675). Conclusions Highly frail patients undergoing TAVI experience a significant enhancement in functional class compared to their less frail counterparts. While short-term complications parallel those observed in less frail individuals, there is a slightly elevated incidence of pacemaker requirements in this group.NYHA Frail pre and post TAVIComplications

Sex-specific prognostic implications of new-onset atrial fibrillation in patients treated with dual chamber pacemakers

Abstract Background Right ventricular pacing induces ventricular dyssynchrony, which over time may result in left ventricular dysfunction, increased left ventricular filling pressures, and ensuing left atrial dilatation, with increased risk of atrial arrhythmias. Atrial fibrillation (AF) prior to device implant is associated with worse prognosis, but the prognostic effects of new-onset AF during pacemaker treatment are less well described. Purpose To describe risk factors, incidence, and prognostic effects of new-onset AF after treatment is initiated with a dual chamber pacemaker. To evaluate mortality and risk of heart failure diagnosis or hospitalisation for heart failure in patients who develop AF, compared to those who do not develop AF. Methods All patients without pre-existing heart failure or atrial fibrillation, who received a dual chamber pacemaker at a large-volume tertiary care center during the period 2005–2020 were included. Data was crossmatched between the national pacemaker registry, the population registry and national disease registries. The primary outcome was 10-year mortality, and the secondary outcome was new-onset heart failure. Results 37127 patients were included in the study, of which 14760 (30%) were female. Median age was 76.4 years [interquartile range, IQR, 68.0–83.1] and the most common indication for pacemaker implant was AV block (57.7%), see Table 1. Overall, 10-year survival was higher for female patients, compared to male patients, p&amp;lt;0.0001 (see Kaplan-Meier curve in Figure 1A). Patients who developed new-onset AF had more comorbidities, were slightly older and a higher percentage were men. During follow-up 3661 (9.9%) developed atrial fibrillation within two years (9.1% of female and 10.3% of male patients, p&amp;lt;0.001), at a median of 291 [88–461] days after implant. In multivariable Cox regression analysis with new-onset AF as time dependent covariable and adjusted for clinically relevant covariables, AF was an independent predictor of higher all-cause mortality (HR 1.43 [1.37–1.49], p&amp;lt;0.0001). Risk factors for new-onset AF included increasing age, male sex, hypertension, malignancy, diabetes, chronic obstructive lung disease, chronic renal disease, and sick sinus syndrome indication (all p&amp;lt;0.01). In separate analyses for men and women, the risk factors and magnitude of odds ratios were the same. Conclusion In patients treated with dual chamber pacemakers due to bradycardia or AV block, development of new-onset AF within two years was associated with a higher 10-year mortality. The risk of developing AF was higher for men, but the negative prognostic effect was more pronounced for women.Figure 1A.-B. K-M survival curves

Long-term outcomes of aortic stenosis patients with different flow/gradient patterns undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation

Abstract Background Few data exist on the comparative long-term outcomes of severe aortic stenosis (AS) patients with different flow-gradient patterns undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). This study sought to evaluate the impact of the pre-TAVI flow-gradient pattern on long-term clinical outcomes after TAVI. Methods Consecutive patients with severe AS undergoing TAVI in our institution were screened and prospectively enrolled. Patients were divided into four subgroups according to pre-TAVI flow/gradient pattern: (i) low flow—low gradient (LF-LG): stroke volume indexed (SVi) ≤ 35 mL/m2 and mean gradient (MG) &amp;lt; 40 mmHg); (ii) normal flow—low gradient (NF-LG): SVi &amp;gt; 35 mL/m2 and MG &amp;lt; 40 mmHg; (iii) low flow—high gradient (LF-HG): Svi 35 mL/m2 and MG ≥ 40 mmHg and (iv) normal flow—high gradient (NF-HG): SVi &amp;gt; 35 mL/m2 and MG ≥ 40 mmHg. Clinical follow-up was obtained at 12 months, and yearly thereafter until 5-year follow-up was complete for all patients. Results A total of 272 patients with complete echocardiographic and clinical follow-up were included in our analysis. Their mean age was 80 ± 7 years and the majority of patients (N = 138, 50.8%) were women. 62 patients (22.8% of the study population) were distributed in the LF-LG group, 98 patients (36%) were LF-HG patients, 95 patients (34.9%) were NF-HG, and 17 patients (6.3%) were NF-LG. There was a greater prevalence of comorbidities among LF-LG AS patients. One-year all-cause mortality differed significantly between the four subgroups of AS patients (log-rank p: 0.022) and was more prevalent among LF-LG patients (25.8%) compared to LF-HG (11.3%), NF-HG (6.3%) and NF-LG patients (18.8%). At 5-year follow-up, global mortality remained persistently higher among LF-LG patients (64.5%) compared to LF-HG (47.9%), NF-HG (42.9%), and NF-LG patients (58.8%) (log-rank p: 0.029) (Figure 1). At multivariable Cox hazard regression analysis, baseline SVi (HR: 0.951, 95% C.I.; 0.918–0.984), the presence of at least moderate tricuspid regurgitation at baseline (HR: 3.091, 95% C.I: 1.645–5.809) and at least moderate paravalvular leak (PVL) post-TAVI (HR: 1.456, 95% C.I.: 1.106–1.792) were significant independent predictors of late global mortality. Conclusions Patients with LF-LG AS have acceptable 1-year outcomes, but exhibit exceedingly high 5-year mortality following TAVI. The presence of low transvalvular flow and at least moderate tricuspid regurgitation at baseline and significant paravalvular leak post-TAVI were associated with poorer long-term outcomes in the entire cohort of AS patients.

Predicting outcomes in patients with exacerbation of COPD requiring mechanical ventilation

BackgroundAcute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD) are common and significantly contribute to mortality in patients with COPD. Prognostic scores can assist clinicians in making tailored decisions to manage AECOPD. In the current study, we therefore aimed to evaluate the performance of the Noninvasive Ventilation Outcomes (NIVO) score, originally designed to assess in-ICU mortality, in predicting 1 year mortality and NIV failure in AECOPD.MethodsThis retrospective study analyzed data from patients hospitalized for AECOPD requiring mechanical ventilation between January 1st, 2018, and December 31st, 2022. Mortality was assessed at the end of ICU stay and 1 year after admission, while NIV failure was defined as intubation or death without intubation.ResultsAmong 302 ICU admissions of COPD patients, 190 patients with AECOPD requiring mechanical ventilation were included. Of these, 44 (23%) died in the ICU, 62 out of 184 (34%) failed NIV, and 78 (41%) died within 1 year of admission. Patients who died in ICU or experienced NIV failure had more severe COPD and more impaired blood gas parameters at admission. The NIVO score demonstrated an AUC of 0.68 in predicting 1-year mortality and an AUC of 0.85 in predicting NIV failure. A NIVO score over 7 was associated with higher 1-year mortality and NIV failure (HR of 4.4 [1.8–10.9] and 41.6 [5.6–307.9], respectively).ConclusionBeyond predicting in-ICU mortality, the NIVO-score is a reliable tool in predicting 1-year mortality and NIV failure in AECOPD.

The impact of preoperative stroke on 1-year mortality and days at home alive after major surgery: an observational cohort study

ObjectiveThe lifetime risk of stroke is one in four people. As the population aged over 60 constantly expands, the impact of stroke on perioperative care is of increasing concern. This study investigates the effect of preoperative stroke on short- and long-term outcomes, hypothesizing that it decreases both 1-year mortality and days alive and at home up to 30 days after surgery (DAH30).MethodsThis cohort study investigated 290,306 adult patients with (7214) and without (283,092) preoperative stroke undergoing major non-cardiovascular, non-ambulatory surgery at 23 hospitals in Sweden between 2007 and 2014. Data were pre- and postoperatively matched with quality registers. Using logistic regression, significant independent risk factors influencing the risk of 1-year mortality and impeded DAH30 were identified with adjusted odds ratios calculated.ResultsPreoperative stroke was associated with higher 1-year mortality and lower DAH30, even after full adjustment for other co-morbid and surgical factors.ConclusionsThis large cohort showed preoperative stroke to impact both the patient-centered short-term outcome DAH30 and 1-year mortality. These findings should be considered in perioperative planning.

Persistent Renal Dysfunction After Acute Kidney Injury Among STEMI Patients Undergoing Primary Coronary Intervention: Prevalence and Predictors.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and serious complication of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). AKI and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are highly heterogeneous, leaving a wide gap between them. Therefore, the term acute kidney disease (AKD) was implemented, describing prolonged renal injury between 7 and 90 days. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of AKD among STEMI patients. This retrospective observational study included 2940 consecutive patients admitted with STEMI between 2008 and 2022. Renal function was assessed upon admission and routinely thereafter. Renal outcomes were evaluated according to KDIGO criteria, with AKD defined as persistent renal injury of between 7 and 90 days. Two hundred and fifty-two subjects with STEMI and AKI were included; of them, 117 (46%) developed AKD. Among baseline CKD patients, higher rates of AKD were observed (60% vs. 46%). KDIGO index ≥ 2 was an independent predictor for AKD in in subjects without baseline CKD (AOR 2.63, 95% CI 1.07-6.53). In subjects with baseline CKD, older age and higher creatinine were independent predictors for AKD. Subjects with AKD had a higher 1-year mortality rate (HR 3.39, 95% CI 1.71-6.72, p < 0.01). This trend was mainly driven by the CKD subpopulation where higher mortality rates for AKD on CKD were observed (HR 5.26, 95% CI 1.83-15.1, p < 0.01). AKD is common among STEMI patients with AKI. The presence of CKD and higher KDIGO stage should prompt strict monitoring for early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of renal function deterioration.

Impact of splenectomy on long-term outcomes after gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a population-based study

BackgroundNo national studies comparing long-term survival after total or partial gastrectomy with splenectomy due to injury or oncologic reasons or spleen preservation exist. This study aimed to examine the 5-year overall survival (OS) of patients with gastric adenocarcinoma who underwent total or partial gastrectomy with splenectomy due to injury or oncologic reasons or spleen preservation in a population-based nationwide setting. MethodsThis study included all patients undergoing total or partial gastrectomy with splenectomy or spleen preservation for gastric adenocarcinoma in Finland from 2005 to 2016, with follow-up until December 31, 2019. A total of 2196 patients with gastric cancer diagnosis and total or partial gastrectomy were identified in the registries. Of these patients, 2118 were applicable for this study. Cox proportional hazard models provided hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs of 5-year OS. The results were adjusted for age, sex, year of operation, comorbidities, tumor location, pathologic stage, and neoadjuvant therapy. ResultsThe observed 5-year OS rates were 38.7% in patients with no or minor spleen injury, 39.7% in patients with splenectomy due to injury, and 30.8% in patients with splenectomy due to oncologic reasons (P = .032). Patients who underwent R0 gastrectomy with splenectomy due to oncologic reasons had higher 5-year mortality (the adjusted model HR, 1.26; 95% CI, 1.01–1.56) than patients who underwent spleen preservation. ConclusionThe OS was worst in patients who underwent gastrectomy with splenectomy due to oncologic reasons, highlighting the poor prognosis in patients with advanced gastric cancer. Splenectomy due to injury does not compromise the prognosis.

Cancer care delivery in prisons: From barriers to best practices.

49 Background: Cancer is the leading cause of death in US prisons. Incarcerated patients with cancer have 92% higher 5-year mortality than the general population with cancer, but little is known about how to improve cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment in this high-risk population. Methods: We conducted interviews with state prison medical directors and primary care clinicians, and medical, radiation and gynecologic oncologists who coordinate or provide cancer care for individuals incarcerated in prison. Participants were recruited via 1) email invitation to participants at a correctional health conference, 2) purposeful sampling using targeted emails to clinicians in prison systems selected for diversity in size, geography and correctional health model (e.g., contracted care), and 3) snowball sampling of individuals from research and participant networks. Participants were interviewed about 1) logistics of cancer care delivery from screening and treatment through end-of-life care, 2) barriers and facilitators to cancer care delivery, and 3) evidence-based strategies to facilitate cancer care in prisons, including best practices. Interview transcripts were analyzed using mixed inductive/deductive thematic content analysis to identify emerging themes. Results: 34 participants from 16 prison systems were interviewed (10 medical directors, 6 PCPs, 14 oncologists, 4 other). Participants reported prison clinicians coordinate most cancer care (e.g., screening, diagnosis and symptom management), while cancer treatment largely occurs in community or academic facilities outside of prison. Common barriers identified included underscreening / delays in diagnosis, complex logistical coordination, poor communication (between patients and oncologists, and prison clinicians and oncologists), inadequate symptom management, dehumanizing practices, loss-to-follow-up after release and that patients often come from marginalized populations. Common facilitators were better access to insurance, cancer screening, and general medical and cancer care than incarcerated patients might receive before/after incarceration. Participants identified multiple ways to improve cancer screening (creating enforceable standards, increasing continuing medical education, implementing electronic medical record reminders, reducing logistical barriers), cancer treatment (implementing navigators within prisons and cancer centers, prioritizing care with oncologist input, keeping care in prisons, decarceration), and transitions to the community (Medicaid activation prior to release, community partnerships to facilitate care transitions). Conclusions: Incarceration imposes multiple barriers to cancer care delivery, but clinicians identified numerous tools to improve cancer care in prison. Future studies should test and optimize these strategies to improve cancer outcomes for incarcerated patients.

Centralisation of extremely preterm births and decreased early postnatal mortality in Sweden, 2004-2007 versus 2014-2016.

We evaluated the increased centralisation of extremely preterm (EPT) births in Sweden in relation to the changes in mortality and morbidity. Population-based data covering Swedish live births from 22 + 0 to 26 + 6 weeks of gestation during 2004-2007 and 2014-2016 were analysed for associations between time-period, birth within (inborn) or outside (outborn) regional centres, and outcomes. Among 1626 liveborn infants, 703 were born in 2004-2007 and 923 in 2014-2016. Birth outside (vs. within) regional centres was associated with a higher infant mortality even after adjustment for birth cohort, gestational age, birthweight standard deviation score and infant sex (adjusted odds ratio 2.01, 95% confidence interval 1.31-3.07, p = 0.001). The higher 1-yearmortality in outborn infants was mainly due to more deaths within 24 h after birth. Outborn infants had a higher incidence of intraventricular haemorrhage grade 3-4 than inborn infants (22% vs. 14% in 2004-2007, and 22% vs. 13% in 2014-2016, both p < 0.05). While survival to 1 year without major morbidity increased in inborn infants (33%-40%, p = 0.008), it remained unchanged in outborn infants (29% vs. 30%, p = 0.88). Centralisation of EPT births contributed to a lower 1-year mortality in 2014-2016 than that in 2004-2007, attributed to a decrease in deaths before 24 h among inborn infants.

The association between histopathological growth patterns with tumor budding and poorly differentiated clusters in colorectal liver metastasis treated with preoperative systemic therapy.

The liver's unique cellular structure makes it a frequent site for metastatic cancer. In colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM), surgical resection is essential for long-term survival. Histopathological growth patterns (HGPs) in CRLM, including desmoplastic and nondesmoplastic patterns, provide critical prognostic information. Tumor budding (TB) and poorly differentiated clusters (PDCs), indicators of aggressive cancer behavior, are evaluated using standardized histological scoring systems and are linked to epithelial-mesenchymal transition. This study explored the correlation between HGPs, TB, and PDCs in CRLM. Archived data from Thammasat University Hospital, including resected CRLM specimens, were analyzed. This study evaluated 51 CRLM resection specimens treated with preoperative systemic therapy, finding most to be nondesmoplastic with low TB and grade 1 PDC. Desmoplastic growth was significantly more prevalent in cases receiving preoperative chemotherapy than those that did not. Higher 3-year mortality was noted in nondesmoplastic groups and those with higher TB and tumor regression grade (TRG) scores. Significant correlations were observed between HGPs, TB, and PDCs, despite challenges in assessing these parameters due to issues with noncancer cells, extracellular mucin, bile ductular proliferation, and retraction artifacts. This study underscores the prognostic significance of HGPs, TB, PDCs, and TRG scores in CRLM, highlighting the need for precise histopathological evaluation for more accurate prognostic implications.

Lower Extremity Arterial Calcification Predicts Referral to a Closed Unit After Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty

BackgroundWe aimed to determine the association between lower extremity arterial calcification (LEAC) and referral to a closed unit (CU), length of stay, 90-day readmissions, and 1-year mortality in primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) patients. MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed 705 patients who underwent primary THA, identifying 64 patients (9.13%) who had LEAC and 641 who did not have LEAC. Patients who had LEAC were older (77 ± 10.0 versus 67 ± 11.5 years; P < 0.001) and had more comorbidities, except for a history of thromboembolic and oncologic diseases (P > 0.05). A preoperative antero-posterior pelvic radiograph was used to assess the presence of LEAC. Admission to CU, length of stay, 90-day readmissions, and 1-year mortality were recorded. A logistic regression model was used to identify risk factors for referral to CU. ResultsPatients who had LEAC had a higher incidence of admission to the intensive care unit (8 of 64 [12.5%] versus 8 of 641 [1.09%]; P < 0.001), a longer hospital stay (4.7 ± 1.8 versus 4.2 ± 1.3 days; P = 0.006), more readmissions (16 of 64 [25%] versus 33 of 641 [5.15%]; P < 0.001), and a higher 1-year mortality rate (6 of 64 [9.3%] versus 0 of 641 [0%]; P < 0.001) than patients who did not have LEAC. Of the patients who had LEAC admitted to CU, only 3 of 8 had a previous indication to do so in the preoperative assessment performed by the Department of Anesthesiology, while all non-LEAC ones referred to CU did so. Logistic regression analysis showed that LEAC was a risk factor for admission to CU (odds ratio = 4.77; 95% confidence interval: 1.12 to 20.25; P = 0.034). ConclusionsThe presence of LEAC was a risk factor for transfer to CU, longer in-hospital stays, more readmissions, and a higher 1-year mortality rate. Identifying patients who have LEAC can aid in the preoperative assessment and risk stratification of patients planned for primary THA.

THE IMPACT OF SCHISTOCYTE DETECTION ON MORTALITY AND ORGAN FAILURE IN PATIENTS WITH SEPSIS.

Purpose : This study aimed to investigate the presence of schistocytes in patients with sepsis and its association with mortality and organ failure. Methods : We conducted a retrospective observational study at Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital, Japan, from January 2015 to April 2021. This study included patients diagnosed with sepsis or septic shock. Schistocytes were identified through daily hematological examinations. Moreover, data on mortality rates and organ failure based on Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores were systematically collected and analyzed. Results : Schistocytes were detected in 41 of the 330 patients with sepsis. The presence of schistocytes was associated with significantly high 90-day and 1-year mortality rates (48.7% and 68.2%, respectively; P < 0.001). Patients with schistocytes exhibited higher Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores, particularly in the coagulation and renal components, indicating more severe organ failure than that observed in patients without schistocytes. These findings persisted even after adjusting for confounding factors, such as age, sex, and baseline comorbidities. Additionally, we observed that patients with schistocytes required frequent red blood cells, further highlighting the severity of their conditions. Conclusion : Schistocytes are significantly associated with increased long-term mortality and organ failure in patients with sepsis. Their detection may provide crucial insights into disease severity, guide targeted therapeutic strategies, and potentially improve the long-term outcomes of sepsis management.

Patterns and Outcomes of Opioid Use Before and After Hospitalization for Critical Illness: A Population-Based Cohort Study.

Background: Hospitalization represents a major access point for prescription opioids, yet little is known regarding patterns and outcomes of opioid exposures before and after hospitalization for critical illness. Methods: This is an observational, population-based cohort study of adults (≥18 years) hospitalized for critical illness from 2010 to 2019. Multivariable models assess associations between opioid exposures prior to hospitalization, classified according to the Consortium to Study Opioid Risks and Trends, and posthospitalization opioid exposures and clinical outcomes through 1-year posthospitalization. Results: Of 11 496 patients, 6318 (55%) were men with a median age of 66 (51, 79) years and 40% (n = 4623) surgical admissions. Prehospitalization opioid availability included 8449 (73%) none, 2117 (18%) short-term, 471 (4%) episodic, and 459 (4%) long-term. Thirty-nine percent (4144/10 708) of hospital survivors were discharged with opioids, with higher prescribing rates for surgical admissions (55%). Greater preadmission opioid exposures were associated with higher prevalent opioid availability at 1 year (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] 24.1 [18.3-31.8], 9.42 [7.18-12.3], and 2.55 [2.08-3.12] for long-term, episodic, and short-term exposures, respectively, vs none, P < .001). Greater preadmission opioid exposures were associated with longer hospitalizations (1.13 [1.04-1.23], 1.15 [1.06-1.25], and 1.08 [1.04-1.13] multiplicative increase in geometric mean, P < .001), more readmissions (hazard ratio [HR] 2.08 [1.74-2.49], 1.88 [1.56-2.26], and 1.48 [1.33-1.64], P < .001), and higher 1-year mortality (HR 1.59 [1.28-1.98], 1.75 [1.41-2.18], and 1.49 [1.32-1.69], P < .001). Similar associations were observed across surgical and nonsurgical admissions. Conclusions: Prehospitalization opioid exposures in survivors of critical illness are associated with clinical outcomes through 1 year and may serve as important prognostic markers.

Under pressure: symptomatic pulmonary hypertension is a predictor of poor outcome following hip fracture.

Pulmonary hypertension (PHTN) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in noncardiac surgery and elective surgery. This population of patients has a low physiological reserve and is prone to cardiac arrest as a result. This study aims to identify the impact that PHTN has on outcomes among geriatric hip fracture patients. A 3:1 propensity-score-matched retrospective case (PHTN)-control (no PHTN [N]) study of hip fracture patients from 2014 to 2022 was performed. Patients were matched utilizing propensity score matching of a validated geriatric trauma risk assessment tool (STTGMA). All patients were reviewed for hospital quality measures and outcomes. Comparative univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted between the two matched cohorts. A sub-analysis compared patients across PHTN severity levels (mild, moderate, severe) based on pulmonary artery systolic pressures (PASP) as measured by transthoracic echocardiogram. PHTN patients (n = 67) experienced a higher rate of inpatient, 30-day, and 1-year mortality, major complications, and 90-day readmissions as compared to the N cohort (n = 201). PHTN patients with a PASP > 60 experienced a significantly higher rate of major complications, need for ICU, longer admission length, and worse 1-year functional outcomes. Pulmonary hypertension was found to be independently associated with a 3.5 × higher rate of 30-day mortality (p = 0.016), 2.7 × higher rate of 1-year mortality (p = 0.008), 2.5 × higher rate of a major inpatient complication (p = 0.028), and 1.2 × higher rate of 90-day readmission (p = 0.044). Patients who had a prior diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension before sustaining their hip fracture experienced significantly worse inpatient and post-discharge outcomes. Those with a PASP > 60mmHg had worse outcomes within the PHTN cohort. Providers must recognize these at-risk patients at the time of arrival to adjust care planning accordingly. III.

Association of Baseline Tricuspid Regurgitation With Health Status and Clinical Outcomes After TAVR and Mitral TEER

BackgroundTricuspid regurgitation (TR) is associated with worse clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and mitral transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (M-TEER), but little is known about its association with health status outcomes. ObjectivesThe aims of this study were to explore, using the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and American College of Cardiology TVT (Transcatheter Valve Therapy) Registry, the association between baseline TR and health status after TAVR and M-TEER and to determine if baseline TR was associated with clinical endpoints. MethodsHealth status was assessed using Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire overall summary (KCCQ-OS) score in patients enrolled in the TVT Registry who underwent isolated TAVR or M-TEER between January 2019 and June 2021. The association among baseline TR and KCCQ-OS score, being alive and well, and clinical outcomes was examined. ResultsIn total, 130,097 TAVR patients (13.1% with moderate TR, 2.3% with severe TR) and 19,593 M-TEER patients (33.2% with moderate TR, 14.7% with severe TR) were included. Mean KCCQ-OS scores were lower with severe vs moderate vs none to mild TR at baseline prior to TAVR (39.4 ± 24.2 vs 45.2 ± 24.7 vs 51.3 ± 25.3; P < 0.01) or M-TEER (38.1 ± 23.9 vs 41.9 ± 24.7 vs 45.4 ± 25.2; P < 0.01) and similarly at 30 days and 1 year. The odds of being alive and well at 1 year were lower with moderate or severe TR before TAVR (adjusted OR: 0.79 [95% CI: 0.74-0.85] and adjusted OR: 0.81 [95% CI: 0.70-0.94], respectively) and severe TR before M-TEER (adjusted OR: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.40-0.71). Furthermore, moderate or severe TR before TAVR was associated with higher 1-year mortality and readmission, whereas moderate or severe TR before M-TEER was associated with higher 1-year mortality. ConclusionsIn a large cohort of U.S. patients who underwent TAVR or M-TEER, greater baseline TR was associated with worse health status and clinical outcomes. Understanding adverse outcomes of TR in patients with coexisting valvular abnormalities is important, especially with rapidly evolving transcatheter tricuspid valve interventions.