History Of Peripheral Vascular Disease Research Articles

491 Clinical and Radiographic Features of Mesenteric Ischemia after Intra-Aortic Balloon Pump Placement

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Intra-aortic balloon pumps are commonly used as circulatory support in patients with critically reduced cardiac function. The goal of this study is to estimate the incidence of mesenteric ischemia as an understudied vascular complication and to describe the clinical and radiographic characteristics of patients experiencing this complication. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: We will be conducting a retrospective analysis of the electronic medical records of all patients who underwent intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) placement between October 2020 and April 2023 at our academic medical center to identify the incidence of mesenteric ischemia. We will describe the clinical course of these patients and characterize them based on demographic features and risk factors for vascular complications including medical comorbidities. Finally, we will assess available chest x-ray and thoracoabdominal CT imaging for adequacy of balloon tip positioning, concordance between balloon size and aortic dimensions, and compromise of any visceral arteries in patients who experienced mesenteric ischemia vs. those who did not. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: We anticipate approximately 150 patients to have recieved IABPs over this period with at least 4 known cases of mesenteric ischemia. We will describe the clinical presentation of these cases and their often fatal outcomes. We expect several known risk factors will be present in these patients, including history of peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, or smoking history. On chest x-ray, we predict balloon tip positioning to be suboptimal (defined as >5cm below the aortic arch) in many patients, both those with mesenteric ischemia and those without, but a greater discordance on CT imaging between balloon size and aortic dimensions with greater evidence of visceral compromise in patients with mesenteric ischemia compared to those without. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Mesenteric ischemia is a serious and poorly studied complication of intra-aortic balloon pumps. Understanding the hospital course, clinical characteristics, and radiographic features present in these patients may guide clinicians in the early recognition and management of this potentially fatal complication.

Cardioembolic events and death predictors in patients with intraventricular thrombus

Abstract Background There is poor evidence about the optimal medical treatment and length of anticoagulation for the management of intraventricular thrombus (IVT). Current ESC guidelines recommend continuation of anticoagulation for up to 6 months. Purpose The objective of this study was to identify predictors of events during follow-up in patients with IVT in order to infer the best therapy in this clinical scenario. Methods All patients with IVT in our tertiary hospital between 2005 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were classified into 2 groups, according to whether they developed (group 1) or not (group 2) the combined event of death, myocardial infarction, stroke or embolism during the first 6 months. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors of clinical events. Results 195 patients were included, of whom 40 (24.1%) presented the combined event at 6 months. There were no differences in age (68.5±15.6 vs 65±13.7 years; p=0.167) or gender distribution (80% men vs 84.9%; p=0.463) between the groups. A history of peripheral vascular disease (22% vs 7.1%; p=0.007), atrial fibrillation (AF) (22% vs 6.3%; p= 0.004) and stroke (34.2% vs 11.8%; p=0.001) were more frequent in group 1. The echocardiogram showed more frequently a mobile thrombus (43.2% vs 23%; p=0.017) with the presence of outgrowths (19.4% vs 5.6%; p=0.012) in the group with events. In addition, these patients had worse ventricular function (LVEF 33.6% vs 40.4%; p=0.002). Regarding treatment, the use of P2Y12 inhibitors was lower in group 1 (36.6% vs. 58.3%, p=0.016). There were no differences in the use of anticoagulants (85.4% vs 87.4%, p=0.737) or in the time until the thrombus clearance (median 119 vs 147 days, p=0.152). The presence of outgrowths in the thrombus, the ejection fraction, and a history of stroke were independently associated with the development of events at 6 months (Table). Considering a cut-off point of one-year follow-up instead, only 7 patients more had events. The presence of outgrowths was the only factor that maintained the independent association with the development of events (OR 9.3 (95%CI 1.6-54.7); p=0.01) during this time frame. Conclusions Cardiovascular events after IVT diagnosis are concentrated in the first 6 months. The presence of outgrowths attached to the thrombus, the lower ejection fraction, and a history of stroke were independent predictors of events at 6 months. In addition, the presence of outgrowths maintained its strong association at one year. Therefore, a more aggressive antithrombotic treatment may be considered in the presence of these factors.

Abstract 12805: Risk Factors of Mortality in Patients on Temporary Mechanical Circulatory Support Undergoing Heart Transplant

Introduction: Recent studies have shown a rise in temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) use among patients requiring heart transplants(HT) in the United States. However, there is a lack of data on the potential risk factors for death among HT patients who also used MCS. We, therefore, explored the National Inpatient Sample(NIS) database to investigate further. Methods: All procedures for HT in adults via the 2016-2020 NIS were retained for our study. The use of MCS was also identified via procedural codes based on previous studies. We estimated factors that could influence mortality among MCS patients via multivariable regression analysis. Results: Our selection criteria yielded 14545 cases of HT between 2016-2020, and an estimated 31.6%(4590) patients used MCS. A higher mortality rate in MCS patients was reported as 10.1% (465 cases out of 4590) did not survive (vs. 3.1% in non-MCS patients, aOR 3.473, 95% CI 2.966-4.066, p<0.01). In the MCS cohort, patients who died were older (mean age 56.13 vs. 53.65 years), with a higher mean Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score ( mean score of 6.03 vs. 4.30, p<0.01). Factors that contributed to an increased odds of death included Weekend admissions (aOR 1.413, 95% CI 1.086-1.839, p=0.10), Hispanics (vs. Whites, aOR 1.926, 95% CI 1.398-2.652, p<0.01), history of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) (aOR 4.426, 95% CI 2.712-7.221, p<0.01), obesity (aOR 1.668, 95% CI 1.238-2.248, p<0.01), age ≥60years (aOR 1.982, 95% CI 1.593-2.466, p<0.01), and patients covered by private insurance forms (vs. Medicare, aOR 1.341, 95% CI 1.067-1.685, p=0.012). Meanwhile, those with lipid disorders (aOR 0.313, 95% CI 0.234-0.418, p<0.01) and a history of stroke (aOR 0.484, 95% CI 0.246-0.954, p=0.036) showed lower mortality risks. Conclusions: Patients who used MCS and are now undergoing HT are at a higher risk of death. Weekend admissions, Hispanics, PVD, obesity, age ≥60 years, and private insurance were linked with higher risks in the MCS cohort, while a history of stroke and lipid disorders had lower risks. Thus, physicians must address these risk factors in their choice of care and provide the appropriate steps to reduce mortality.

Predictors of mortality in periprosthetic fractures of the hip: Results from the national PPF study.

IntroductionPeriprosthetic fractures (PPFs) around the hip joint are increasing in prevalence. In this collaborative study, we aimed to investigate the impact of patient demographics, fracture characteristics, and modes of management on in-hospital mortality of PPFs involving the hip. MethodsUsing a multi-centre cohort study design, we retrospectively identified adults presenting with a PPF around the hip over a 10-year period. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to study the independent correlation between patient, fracture, and treatment factors on mortality. ResultsA total of 1,109 patients were included. The in-hospital mortality rate was 5.3%. Multivariable analyses suggested that age, male sex, abbreviated mental test score (AMTS), pneumonia, renal failure, history of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) and deep surgical site infection were each independently associated with mortality. Each yearly increase in age independently correlates with a 7% increase in mortality (OR 1.07, p=0.019). The odds of mortality was 2.99 times higher for patients diagnosed with pneumonia during their hospital stay [OR 2.99 (95% CI 1.07-8.37) p=0.037], and 7.25 times higher for patients that developed renal failure during their stay [OR 7.25 (95% CI 1.85-28.47) p=0.005]. Patients with history of PVD have a six-fold greater mortality risk (OR 6.06, p=0.003). Mode of treatment was not a significant predictor of mortality. ConclusionThe in-hospital mortality rate of PPFs around the hip exceeds 5%. The fracture subtype and mode of management are not independent predictors of mortality, while patient factors such as age, AMTS, history of PVD, pneumonia, and renal failure can independently predict mortality. Peri-operative optimisation of modifiable risk factors such as lung and kidney function in patients with PPFs around the hip during their hospital stay is of utmost importance.

Association of clinical characteristics and biomarkers with recurrent atrial fibrillation after hybrid ablation

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Atrial fibrillation ablation research at our institution was supported by an unrestricted grant from AtriCure. Background Hybrid ablation is an alternative treatment for both persisting and therapy-resistant, symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF), combining the strengths of endocardial catheter and epicardial surgical ablation. Although results exhibit lower rates of recurrence and higher reduction of AF burden, there is a considerable risk of procedure-related complications. Therefore, the identification of patient groups who benefit most of this procedure can help in pre-procedural selection and tailoring of optimal therapy post-ablation. Purpose This study aimed to identify clinical factors and blood biomarkers associated with recurrence of AF within 1 year post-ablation. Methods A total of 96 consecutive patients undergoing hybrid ablation between January 2015 and December 2018 in a tertiary care center were enrolled. Blood samples were collected pre-ablation. Seven biomarkers [Bone Morphogenetic Protein 10 (BMP10), angiopoietin-2 (ANG2), Dickkopf WNT Signaling Pathway Inhibitor 3 (DKK3), Endothelial Cell Specific Molecule 1 (ESM1), Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 (FGF23), Insulin Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 7 (IGFBP7) and total N-terminal pro b-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)] were assayed at Roche Diagnostics based on their possible association with recurrence of AF. Clinical follow-up visits combined with 12-lead ECG and 24-hour Holter monitoring were scheduled at 3, 6 and 12 months post-procedure. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to study the association with recurrence of AF. Results Out of the 96 patients (mean age 58±8 years; 18% women), 17 (17.7%) developed recurrence of AF within 1 year post-ablation. Median time to diagnosis was 191 days (range: 92-344). Comparisons between patients with and without recurrence of AF are depicted in Table 1. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression, adjusted for sex, showed that older age (HR 1.104, 95% CI 1.003-1.215, p=0.043), type of AF (HR 0.322, 95% CI 0.117-0.886, p=0.028), a history of peripheral vascular disease (HR 13.84, 95% CI 3.13-61.14, p<0.001) and recurrence in the blanking period (HR 14.25, 95% CI 3.99-50.85, p<0.001) were associated with recurrence of AF within 1 year post-ablation, but no blood biomarkers (Figure 1). Conclusion In AF patients undergoing extensive ablation, older age, type of AF, a history of peripheral vascular disease and recurrence in the blanking period were determinants of AF recurrence within 1 year post-ablation.

Common Iliac Artery to Below-Knee Popliteal Artery Bypass via Obturator Foramen in a Third-Time Reoperative Groin for Limb Salvage in Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia.

This case report presents the management of a 69-year-old man with an extensive history of peripheral vascular disease including 2 previous failed right femoral to distal bypasses and a left above-the-knee amputation who presented with right lower extremity rest pain and non-healing shin ulcers. A redo bypass was performed for limb salvage via the obturator foramen to avoid his extensively scarred femoral region. The postoperative course was uneventful and the bypass remained patent in the early period. This case demonstrates the usefulness of the obturator bypass to provide revascularization and avoid amputation in a patient with chronic limb-threatening ischemia and multiple failed bypasses.

Rational clinical approach to transient ischaemic attack, stroke and associated mimics: A retrospective cohort study.

The present study was performed to identify the individual clinical features and risk factors most strongly associated with the diagnosis of transient neurological symptoms with a cerebrovascular cause (transient ischaemic attack (TIA) or stroke), as compared to common TIA mimics (including retinal ischaemia, migraine and seizure). In a retrospective cohort study, consecutive patients presenting with transient neurological symptoms to TIA clinic in Royal Adelaide Hospital were included. Clinical features and risk factors were recorded in a standardised form, categorised into subgroups, and analysed using descriptive statistics and diagnostic performance indicators, such as sensitivity, specificity and likelihood ratios. For 218/1273 individuals diagnosed with stroke, the three features with the highest positive likelihood ratio were the presence of diffusion weighted imaging positive lesion on magnetic resonance imaging (23.66, 95% confidence interval (CI) 14.35-51.08), extracranial carotid atherosclerosis (3.98, 95% CI 1.19-6.87) and a history of peripheral vascular disease (3.33, 95% CI 1.64-6.27). For TIA, the three features with the highest positive likelihood ratio were extracranial carotid atherosclerosis (3.98, 95% CI 1.19-8.27), presence of atrial fibrillation (2.43, 95% CI 1.54-3.46) and pre-existing anticoagulant therapy (2.39, 95% CI 1.61-3.29). For stroke and TIA, the respective features with the lowest negative likelihood ratios were limb weakness (0.71, 95% CI 0.65-0.77) and hypertension (0.66, 95% CI 0.49-0.84). The present study demonstrated that specific clinical features and risk factors were associated with the final diagnosis at TIA clinic. These clinical features may assist with diagnosis of TIA in centres without access to a vascular neurologist.

Predictors and outcomes of spinal cord injury following complex branched/fenestrated endovascular aortic repair in the US Aortic Research Consortium

ObjectiveSpinal cord ischemia (SCI) is a well-known complication of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair and is associated with profound morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study was to describe predictors for the development of SCI, as well as outcomes for patients who develop SCI, after branched/fenestrated endovascular aortic repair in a large cohort of centers with adjudicated physician-sponsored investigational device exemption studies. MethodsWe used a pooled dataset from nine US Aortic Research Consortium centers involved in investigational device exemption trials for treatment of suprarenal and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. SCI was defined as new transient weakness (paraparesis) or permanent paraplegia after repair without other potential neurological etiologies. Multivariable analysis was performed to identify predictors of SCI, and life-table analysis and Kaplan-Meier methodologies were used to evaluate survival differences. ResultsA total of 1681 patients underwent branched/fenestrated endovascular aortic repair from 2005 to 2020. The overall rate of SCI was 7.1% (3.0% transient and 4.1% permanent). Predictors of SCI on multivariable analysis were Crawford Extent I, II, and III distribution of aortic disease (odds ratio [OR], 4.79; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.77-4.81; P < .001), age ≥70 years (OR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.63-1.64; P = .029), packed red blood cell transfusion (OR, 2.00; 95% CI, 1.99-2.00; P = .001), and a history of peripheral vascular disease (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.64-1.65; P = .034). The median survival was significantly worse for patients with any degree of SCI compared with those without SCI (any SCI, 40.4 vs no SCI, 60.3 months; log-rank P < .001), and also worse in those with a permanent deficit (24.1 months) vs those with a transient deficit (62.4 months) (log-rank P < .001). The 1-year survival for patients who developed no SCI was 90.8%, compared with 73.9% in patients who developed any SCI. When stratified by degree of deficit, survival was 84.8% at 1 year for those who developed paraparesis and 66.2% for those who developed permanent deficits. ConclusionsThe overall rates of any SCI at 7.1% and permanent deficit at 4.1% observed in this study compare favorably with those reported in contemporary literature. Our findings confirm that increased length of aortic disease is associated with SCI and those with Crawford Extent I to III thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms are at highest risk. The long-term impact on patient mortality underscores the importance of preventive measures and rapid implementation of rescue protocols if and when deficits develop.

A decade of arteriovenous fistula creations in the ⩾75 years population: Equal opportunity or sub-optimal use of resources.

The optimal vascular access in the elderly remains contentious in the context of increasingly limited resources and anticipated survival on hemodialysis. Research focus has shifted to include the impact of vascular access on quality of life. This study explored clinical outcomes in individuals aged ⩾75 years who had an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) created in a single center over a 10-year period. Demographic and clinical data concerning AVFs created January 2009-December 2019 were identified from a prospective database for retrospective analysis. Outcome measures were AVF patency and failure to mature rates plus overall patient and vascular access survival. The Vascular Access Specific Quality of life measure (VASQoL) was completed in a contemporary cohort aged ⩾75 years established on HD in October 2021. AVF outcomes were available for 272 patients (93%). The failure to mature (FTM) rate was 36% with the significant predictors of AVF FTM being the creation of a radiocephalic AVF (OR 8.13, 95% CI 8.02-8.52, p < 0.01), female gender (OR 4.84, 95% CI 4.70-5.41, p < 0.01), and a history of peripheral vascular disease (OR 5.25, 95% CI 5.22-6.00, p value = 0.02). Functional patency was associated with a median 12-month survival benefit compared to those whose fistula FTM (p < 0.01). The median patency duration for a functionally patent AVF was 3 years. Elderly patients with a fistula reported a lower quality of life in VASQoL scoring than those with central venous catheters. In this cohort, AVF creation in individuals aged ⩾75 years AVFs was associated with comparable AVF patency rates to younger patients. AVF functional patency was associated with superior patient survival compared to those with AVF FTM. A multi-disciplinary surveillance program may help reduce AVF loss. Further work on how vascular access choice impacts quality of life in elderly patients is required.

Patient-reported quality of life factors in vascular surgical wounds healing by secondary intention (SWHSI): a qualitative patient and public involvement (PPI) exploration

Background: Surgical wounds healing by secondary intention (SWHSI) represent a significant burden to patients and services. An understanding of quality of life factors affecting this population is essential to recognise the impact of this wound entity on patients. Understanding of the patient experience is necessary to building effective services and designing high-quality research studies to improve care in this population. Methods: Twelve individuals with lived experience of living with a SWHSI or caring for a person with a SWHSI were recruited to one of two focus groups. Participants were identified from those who had previously been recruited into the NIHR-funded SWHSI-2 trial (NIHR17/42/94; a study assessing healing of surgical wound healing by secondary intention). All participants in this cohort had lower limb SWHSIs and a history of peripheral vascular disease. Sessions followed a general topic guide and were guided by the research team. Sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis methods. Results: Four main areas of impact on quality of life were identified: mental health, physical symptoms, lifestyle symptoms and service-based impacts. There was a clear heterogeneity of experience seen within the group, with some reporting a more significant impact than others. This was ascribed to the loss of social and professional functioning, and the subsequent impact on mental health. There was a differential impact of this on younger participants (who tended to be employed and hold caring roles for children or family members) compared to older participants who did not have these social roles to fulfil, and were less affected in these areas. The need for improved preoperative counselling was highlighted, as many participants reported feeling unprepared for the postoperative course. Conclusions: This study considered the experiences of patients with a SWHSI and identified the main areas of impact on quality of life. This work will help to underpin future research into treatments and services for the SWHSI population. It may also form the basis for identifying an appropriate patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) related to quality of life in SWHSI for use in the research setting. Limitations of the study included the number and diversity of participants, and the impact of the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic on the experiences of participants. Further exploration of the area through formal qualitative study is warranted to understand the breadth, generalisability and possible future applications of the work.

Development and Validation of the VA Lung Cancer Mortality (VALCAN-M) Score for 90-Day Mortality Following Surgical Treatment of Clinical Stage I Lung Cancer.

The aim was to develop and validate the Veterans Administration (VA) Lung Cancer Mortality (VALCAN-M) score, a risk prediction model for 90-day mortality following surgical treatment of clinical stage I nonsmall-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). While surgery remains the preferred treatment for functionally fit patients with early-stage NSCLC, less invasive, nonsurgical treatments have emerged for high-risk patients. Accurate risk prediction models for postoperative mortality may aid surgeons and other providers in optimizing patient-centered treatment plans. We performed a retrospective cohort study using a uniquely compiled VA data set including all Veterans with clinical stage I NSCLC undergoing surgical treatment between 2006 and 2016. Patients were randomly split into derivation and validation cohorts. We derived the VALCAN-M score based on multivariable logistic regression modeling of patient and treatment variables and 90-day mortality. A total of 9749 patients were included (derivation cohort: n=6825, 70.0%; validation cohort: n=2924, 30.0%). The 90-day mortality rate was 4.0% (n=390). The final multivariable model included 11 factors that were associated with 90-day mortality: age, body mass index, history of heart failure, forced expiratory volume (% predicted), history of peripheral vascular disease, functional status, delayed surgery, American Society of Anesthesiology performance status, tumor histology, extent of resection (lobectomy, wedge, segmentectomy, or pneumonectomy), and surgical approach (minimally invasive or open). The c statistic was 0.739 (95% CI=0.708-0.771) in the derivation cohort. The VALCAN-M score uses readily available treatment-related variables to reliably predict 90-day operative mortality. This score can aid surgeons and other providers in objectively discussing operative risk among high-risk patients with clinical stage I NSCLC considering surgery versus other definitive therapies.

Circulating Irisin Level as a Biomarker for Pure Aortic Stenosis and Aortic Valve Calcification

Irisin, a myokine mainly secreted by skeletal and cardiac muscles, is actively involved in cardiovascular diseases. However, whether irisin is associated with aortic stenosis remains unknown. Two hundred ninety-three severe AS patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve implantation were enrolled and followed-up for 35 months on average. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was applied to measure circulating irisin levels. Patients were divided into two groups based on the median plasma irisin level. We found that high plasma irisin levels were independently associated with pure aortic stenosis (PAS) after adjusting for age, body mass index, history of peripheral vascular disease, and creatinine (OR = 3.015, 95% CI 1.775–5.119, P < 0.001). ROC curve analysis showed a significant predictive value of irisin for PAS (AUC = 0.647, 95% CI 0.583–0.711, P < 0.001). The severity of aortic valve calcification was negatively associated with plasma irisin levels (P < 0.05). In conclusion, irisin is an independent predictor for PAS and is negatively associated with the severity of aortic valve calcification.

Assessment of rehabilitation following intracerebral hemorrhage in China: findings from the Chinese stroke center alliance

ABSTRACT Objectives Evidence shows that rehabilitation is the most effective strategy to reduce the disability rate of patients with stroke. However, there is limited understanding about the factors associated with rehabilitation assessment among patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in China. We aimed to investigate the factors associated with rehabilitation assessment in patients with ICH and the relationship between rehabilitation assessment and hospitalization outcomes. Methods Data from 85,664 patients with ICH admitted to 1,312 hospitals between 1 August 2015 and 31 July 2019 were analyzed. A multivariable logistic regression model accounting for in-hospital clustering was used to identify patient and hospital factors associated with rehabilitation assessment during acute hospitalization. Results A total of 62,228 (72.6%) patients with ICH underwent rehabilitation assessments. In multivariable analyses, factors associated with an increased likelihood of undergoing a rehabilitation assessment (P < .05) included a higher Glasgow Coma Scale score on admission, a history of hypertension, a history of peripheral vascular disease, dysphagia screening, carotid vessel imaging, and a longer length of hospital stay. Conversely, patients admitted to the intensive care unit and tertiary-grade hospitals were less likely to undergo rehabilitation assessments during hospitalization for ICH. Discussion This study showed that the rate of rehabilitation assessment was 74.2%, which is low. Rehabilitation assessment was associated with longer hospital stays and lower mortality. Therefore, patients with acute cerebral haemorrhage should undergo comprehensive and professional rehabilitation assessment.

Analysis of the structure of drug prescriptions in patients with arterial hypertension and atrial fibrillation in conditions of comorbidity and their compliance with the STOPP/START criteria

Background. Arterial hypertension (AH) is often associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), is one of the leading modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease, atrial fibrillation (AF), chronic kidney disease (CKD). Progression of renal dysfunction is a powerful predictor of the onset of AF in patients with high blood pressure. Irrational prescription of drugs is a risk factor for adverse drug reactions, which is especially important for elderly patients and leads to an increased risk of adverse clinical outcomes.Objective. To analyze the concordance of pharmacotherapy with the STOPP/START criteria in comorbid elderly patients with AH and combined DM2, CKD and AF treated in a multidisciplinary hospitals.Design and methods. Included data from medical records of 1600 patients aged ≥ 65 years with AH and/or AF admitted to multidisciplinary hospitals in Moscow from July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019. Patients were divided into two groups — (1) AH in combination with AF (n = 822, women — 73%, median age 87 [79; 90]) and (2) control group (n = 778, women — 79,9%, median age 78 [71; 85]) Evaluation of the appointment of drugs was made according to the “STOPP/START” criteria.Results. The number of patients who were not prescribed the recommended drugs was statistically significant (p &lt; 0,001) and higher in the AH + AF group (785 people, 95,5%) compared to the control group (623 people, 80,1%). The number of patients who were prescribed potentially non-recommended drugs was similarly statistically significant (p &lt; 0,001) higher in the AH + AF group (439, 53,4%) compared to the control group (328, 42,2%). The most common START criteria were: 1. Statins with a documented history of coronary, cerebral or peripheral vascular disease (in the AH + AF group — 672, 81,8% of the number of patients in the group; in the control group — 464, 59,6%; p &lt; 0,001) 2. Clopidogrel in patients with ischemic stroke or a history of peripheral vascular disease (c respectively, 324, 39,4% and 237, 30,5%; p &lt; 0,001) 3. Warfarin/direct oral anticoagulants in AF (in the group AG + FP — 294, 35,8%). The most common STOPP criteria were: 1. Drugs that can increase constipation in chronic constipation, if there is a more suitable alternative (in the AH + AF group — 160, 19,5% of the number of patients in the group; in the control group — 47,6%; p &lt; 0,001). 2. Drugs with anticholinergic activity in chronic constipation (respectively, 111, 13,5% and 74, 9,5%; p = 0,013). 3. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers in patients with hyperkalemia (respectively, 26, 3,2 % and 94, 12,1%; p &lt; 0,001). Similar results were obtained in the analysis of subgroups of AH + AF with concomitant DM2, CKD and without them.Conclusions. The results obtained dictate the need to optimize pharmacotherapy in elderly and very old patients with AH and comorbidities in a hospital setting. In practice, START criteria are more common than STOPP, that is, in reality, the necessary drugs are often not prescribed where they are indicated and drugs with an unfavorable safety profile are prescribed relatively rarely in elderly and senile patients.

Predictive value of the combination between the intracranial arterial culprit plaque characteristics and the Essen Stroke Risk Score for short-term stroke recurrence

AimIn the current study we aim the identification of the culprit plaque characteristics of intracranial arteries using high-resolution magnetic resonance vessel wall imaging (HR-MR-VWI). Moreover, we target the evaluation of the predictive value of culprit plaque characteristics for short-term stroke recurrence combined with ESRS. Materials and methodsWe conducted a prospective cohort study on 342 patients diagnosed with symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (sICAS), out of which 243 were men and 99 were women with an average age of 64 ± 12 years. 184 cases of anterior circulation ischemia (ACIS) and 158 cases of posterior circulation ischemia (PCIS) were included in the study. All of them underwent HR-MR-VWI during the period between February 2020 and June 2021 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Nantong, China. The culprit vessel and culprit plaque characteristics were assessed based on HR-MR-VWI images, and the patients' ESRS were obtained from the electronic medical records of the hospital. Concerning the obtained results from the 6-month follow-up, the patients were divided into the non-recurrence group and the recurrence group, and the differences in the above-mentioned features between the two groups were compared. The univariate Cox regression analysis combined with ESRS was performed to screen out the independent risk factors associated with recurrent stroke with P < 0.1. Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC curves) were plotted to analyze the predictive performance of the culprit plaque characteristics, ESRS and combined variables for stroke recurrence. We used the area under the curve (AUC) ROC, while the sensitivity and specificity were calculated at the optimal threshold. The Delong test was employed to compare the quality of the AUC of the predictors. ResultsA total of 15.5% (53/342) of patients had a stroke recurrence within six months, with statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) between the two groups regarding the ESRS, medical history of diabetes mellitus, myocardial infarction, data for previous acute ischemic stroke (AIS) or transient ischemic attack(TIA), history of peripheral vascular disease, and serum brain natriuretic peptide level. In the patients with ACIS, the incidence of hyperintensity on the T1-weighted imaging (T1WI) was significantly different between the recurrence and the non-recurrence groups (P < 0.05). In the patients with PCIS, statistically significant differences between the recurrence and the non-recurrence group were detected in the culprit plaque burden, degree of enhancement, and incidence of hyperintensity on T1WI (P < 0.05). The ESRS (hazard ratios [HR], 1.598, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.193–2.141, P = 0.002) ,degree of enhancement (HR = 1.764, 95% CI 0.985–3.087, P = 0.047) and hyperintensity on T1WI (HR = 2.745, 95% CI 1.373–5.488, P = 0.004) proved to be independent risk factors for stroke recurrence. The ESRS predicted stroke recurrence with AUC = 0.618 (95% CI 0.564–0.670), while the best cut-off value was 2 points. Furthermore, the registered sensitivity and specificity were 60.4% and 58.5%, respectively. Regarding the degree of enhancement in the culprit plaque, the prediction of stroke recurrence was with AUC = 0.628 (95% CI 0.574–0.679) as well as with sensitivities and specificities of 58.5% and 64.4%, respectively. Regarding the hyperintensity on T1WI in culprit plaque, the prediction of stroke recurrence was with AUC = 0.678 (95% CI 0.626–0.727) as well as with sensitivities and specificities of 66.0% and 70.0%, respectively. The ESRS combined with the degree of enhancement predicted stroke recurrence with an AUC = 0.685 (95CI% 0.633–0.734), while the recorded sensitivity and specificity were 56.6% and 73.4%, respectively. The ESRS combined with hyperintensity on the T1WI predicted stroke recurrence with an AUC = 0.745 (95CI% 0.696–0.791). The recorded sensitivity and specificity were 64.2% and 76.8%, respectively. The AUC quality of the ESRS combined with hyperintensity on T1WI was higher than that of other indices (P < 0.05). ConclusionsThe hyperintensity on T1WI of the culprit plaque in intracranial arteries combined with ESRS demonstrated better predictive ability for short-term stroke recurrence. We consider this of high importance for clinical application since it provides an easier way of obtaining data for precise diagnosis.

In-stent restenosis after vertebral artery origin stenosis stenting: a nomogram for risk assessment

ObjectiveTo propose a nomogram for individual risk assessment of in-stent restenosis (ISR) after vertebral artery origin stenosis (VAOS) stenting.MethodsWe included 793 patients with VAOS treated with stenting from October 2006...

Acute limb ischemia after femoro-femoral extracorporeal life support implantation: A comparison of surgical, percutaneous, or combined vascular access in 402 patients.

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is a salvage treatment for acute circulatory failure. Our high-volume tertiary centre performs more than 100 implants annually and provides ECLS-transports. With this study, we aimed to analyze the incidence and risk factors of limb ischemia depending on the vascular access. Between January 1, 2007, and December 31, 2018, 937 patients received an ECLS. Preoperative, intraoperative, in-hospital and up to 5 years follow-up data were collected. Outcome measures were limb ischemia and survival. In total, 402 femoro-femoral veno-arterial ECLS patients were identified. Mean age was 56 ± 16.7 years, 26.9% were female, 7.9% had a history of peripheral vascular disease. Cannulation was performed percutaneously in 82.1% (n=330), surgically in 5.7% (n=23) and combined in 12.2% (n=49). Mortality was not significantly different between the groups (51.1% percutaneous, 43.5% surgical, 44.9% combined [p=0.89]). There was no significant difference in limb ischemia either, but a trend toward an increased frequency in the percutaneous group (p=0.0501). No amputation was necessary. Limb ischemia slightly increased in-hospital mortality (54.6%) but did not affect long-term survival beyond 30 days. Univariate analysis adjusted for cannulation methods revealed younger age and female gender as risk factors of limb ischemia and younger age for limb ischemia after percutaneous cannulation. Our study shows that percutaneous, surgical, and combined vascular access techniques for ECLS implantation are associated with comparable and low incidence of limb ischemia which slightly increases in-hospital mortality. Special precaution has to be taken in young and female patients.

Practice patterns and predictors of outpatient care following acute kidney injury in an Australian healthcare setting.

Survivors of acute kidney injury (AKI) are at increased risk of major adverse kidney events and international guidelines recommend individuals be evaluated 3 months following AKI. We describe practice patterns and predictors of post-AKI care in an Australian tertiary hospital. A retrospective analysis was undertaken of adults with AKI (defined by KDIGO criteria) admitted to a single centre between 2012 and 2016. The primary outcome was outpatient nephrology review at 3 months. Secondary outcomes included inpatient nephrology review, and outpatient serum creatinine and urinary protein measurements. Data were analysed using multivariable logistic and competing risk regression. Only 117 of 2111 (6%) patients with AKI were reviewed by a nephrologist at 3 months. Reviewed patients were more likely to have a higher discharge serum creatinine (odds ratio (OR) 1.20 per 10 μmol/L increase; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.16-1.25) or a history of peripheral vascular disease (OR 1.77; 95% CI 1.00-3.14). They were less likely to be older (OR 0.66 per decade; 95% CI 0.57-0.76) or to have a history of liver (OR 0.47; 95% CI 0.26-0.87) or ischaemic heart (OR 0.50; 95% CI 0.27-0.94) disease. AKI stage did not predict follow up. The median time from discharge to outpatient serum creatinine testing was 12 days (interquartile range 4-47) and proteinuria was measured in 538 (25%) patients. A minority of admitted AKI patients receive recommended post-AKI care. Studies in other Australian institutions are required to confirm or refute these concerning findings.

709. Risk Factors for Candida auris Candidemia: Results from a Multicenter Case-Control Study

BackgroundThe emergence of Candida auris as a global pathogen has been described as a serious global threat by the CDC. It has caused outbreaks in healthcare settings as it is transmissible between patients. The risk factors for candidemia caused by C. auris may be different than candidemia caused by other Candida spp.MethodsWe performed a multicenter, retrospective case-control study at three hospitals in Brooklyn, New York between 2016 and 2020. Patients with at least one positive blood culture for Candida spp who were started empirically on an antifungal within 24 hours of blood culture positivity were included in the study. Subsequent cases in the same patient were excluded unless separated by at least 90 days from the initial case. Similar variables such as antibiotics and antifungals within the same drug class were compressed into one variable. Variables with a p-value ≤ 0.05 on univariate analysis were entered into a multivariable analysis with a p-value ≤ 0.05 considered to be statistically significant.Results84 cases of C. auris candidemia and 105 cases of candidemia caused by other Candida spp were included in the analysis. The most common species of other Candida spp was C. glabrata (N=33, 31.7%) followed by C. albicans (N=32, 30.4%). In the multivariable model, the strongest risk factor for C. auris candidemia was prior infection or colonization with C. auris (aOR 17.5; 95% CI, 1.60-192.93; P = 0.019) followed by prior infection or colonization with multidrug-resistant bacteria (aOR 6.97; 95% CI 1.49-32.74, P = 0.014). A history of peripheral vascular disease (PVD) (aOR 7.78; 95% CI 1.34-45.34, P = 0.023), cerebrovascular disease (CVA) (aOR 4.24; 95% CI 1.18-15.20, P = 0.027) and hemiplegia (aOR 6.43; 95% CI 1.19-34.85, P = 0.031) were also statistically significant. These risk factors remained significant analyzing only patients without any history of C. auris.ConclusionThese data suggest that in hospitalized patients with candidemia, a history of colonization or infection with C. auris, prior infection or colonization with multidrug-resistant bacteria, as well as a history of PVD, CVA, and hemiplegia are associated with C. auris candidemia. Disclosures Samuel Simon, PharmD, Accelerate Diagnostics (Employee)

Prognostic effect of peripheral vascular disease in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Abstract Introduction Atherosclerosis vascular disease is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in the world. We aimed to evaluate the prognostic impact of a history of peripheral vascular disease in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). Methods Single-center, observational and retrospective study including all patients undergoing CABG in our center between 2010 and 2018. Electronic health records were used to record clinical characteristics to identify patients with a history of peripheral vascular disease. This one was defined as having a history of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), intermittent claudication, or previous percutaneous or surgical arterial procedure. Patients were followed until December 2019. The primary endpoint (PE) was the composite of stroke, TIA, myocardial infarction, new coronary revascularization, inferior limb vascular or aortic aneurysm intervention, and death. Results We included 567 patients, 138 (24.3%) with a history of peripheral vascular disease (stroke/TIA 34.1%; carotid surgery 6.5%; inferior limb surgery 12.3%; abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery 8.7% and intermittent claudication 38.4%). Baseline characteristics of the overall cohort and different subgroups (with and without peripheral vascular disease) can be seen in the table. The group with peripheral vascular disease had a worse clinical profile. They were significantly older, more frequently males, and smokers. They also had a higher prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, chronic kidney disease, and neoplasms. In addition, the preoperative status was less favorable, left ventricular ejection fraction and hemoglobin were lower, and renal function was worse than the group without peripheral vascular disease. The median follow-up was 4.2 years. During the study period, 55 patients (40%) with peripheral vascular disease and 80 patients (18.6%) without peripheral vascular disease reached the PE. After multivariate Cox modeling, variables independently related to PE were diabetes (HR=1.65 (1.17–2.33); p=0.004), creatinine levels (HR= 1.32 (1.19–1.47); p≤0.001) and peripheral vascular disease (HR= 2.28 (1.60–3.25); p≤0.001) (figure, panel A). Kaplan-Meier survival curves of PE according to the presence of peripheral vascular disease prior to CABG are shown in panel B of the figure. Conclusion According to our results, patients with peripheral vascular disease have approximately double the risk of suffering a major complication after CABG. Larger studies are needed to confirm these results. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None. Description of studied population.HR and Kaplan-Meier curves