Intermediate-risk Pulmonary Embolism Patients Research Articles

Percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in acute pulmonary embolism: Outcomes from a safety-net hospital.

Our study aims to present clinical outcomes of mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in a safety-net hospital. This is a retrospective study of intermediate or high-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) patients who underwent MT between October 2020 and May 2023. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Among 61 patients (mean age 57.6 years, 47% women, 57% Black) analyzed, 12 (19.7%) were classified as high-risk PE, and 49 (80.3%) were intermediate-risk PE. Of these patients, 62.3% had Medicaid or were uninsured, 50.8% lived in a high poverty zip code. The prevalence of normotensive shock in intermediate-risk PE patients was 62%. Immediate hemodynamic improvements included 7.4 mmHg mean drop in mean pulmonary artery pressure (-21.7%, p < 0.001) and 93% had normalization of their cardiac index postprocedure. Thirty-day mortality for the entire cohort was 5% (3 patients) and 0% when restricted to the intermediate-risk group. All 3 patients who died at 30 days presented with cardiac arrest. There were no differences in short-term mortality based on race, insurance type, citizenship status, or socioeconomic status. All-cause mortality at most recent follow up was 13.1% (mean follow up time of 13.4 ± 8.5 months). We extend the findings from prior studies that MT demonstrates a favorable safety profile with immediate improvement in hemodynamics and a low 30-day mortality in patients with acute PE, holding true even with relatively higher risk and more vulnerable population within a safety-net hospital.

Direct Oral Anticoagulants for Pulmonary Embolism.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the third most common cardiovascular disease. For most patients, the standard of treatment has long consisted on low-molecular-weight heparin followed by vitamin K antagonists, but a number of clinical trials and, subsequently, post-marketing studies have shown that direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) with or without lead-in heparin therapy are effective alternatives with fewer adverse effects. This evidence has led to important changes in the guidelines on the treatment of VTE, including pulmonary embolism (PE), with the DOACs being now recommended as the first therapeutic choice. Additional research has contributed to identifying low-risk PE patients who can benefit from outpatient management or from early discharge from the emergency department with DOAC treatment. There is evidence to support the use of DOACs in intermediate-risk PE patients as well as in high-risk patients receiving thrombolytic treatment. The use of DOACs has also been proven to be safe and effective in special populations of PE patients, such as patients with renal impairment, liver impairment, and cancer.

Contemporary Management and Outcomes of Patients With High-Risk Pulmonary Embolism

BackgroundContemporary care patterns/outcomes in high-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) patients are unknown. ObjectivesThis study sought to characterize the management of high-risk PE patients and identify factors associated with poor outcomes. MethodsA retrospective analysis of the PERT (Pulmonary Embolism Response Team) Consortium Registry was performed. Patients presenting with intermediate-risk PE, high-risk PE, and catastrophic PE (those with hemodynamic collapse) were identified. Patient characteristics were compared with chi-square testing for categorical covariates and Student's t-test for continuous covariates. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between clinical characteristics and outcomes in the high-risk population. ResultsOf 5,790 registry patients, 2,976 presented with intermediate-risk PE and 1,442 with high-risk PE. High-risk PE patients were more frequently treated with advanced therapies than intermediate-risk PE patients (41.9% vs 30.2%; P < 0.001). In-hospital mortality (20.6% vs 3.7%; P < 0.001) and major bleeding (10.5% vs. 3.5%; P < 0.001) were more common in high-risk PE. Multivariable regression analysis demonstrated vasopressor use (OR: 4.56; 95% CI: 3.27-6.38; P < 0.01), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation use (OR: 2.86; 95% CI: 1.12-7.30; P = 0.03), identified clot-in-transit (OR: 2.26; 95% CI: 1.13-4.52; P = 0.02), and malignancy (OR: = 1.70; 95% CI: 1.13-2.56; P = 0.01) as factors associated with in-hospital mortality. Catastrophic PE patients (n = 197 [13.7% of high-risk PE patients]) had higher in-hospital mortality (42.1% vs 17.2%; P < 0.001) than those presenting with noncatastrophic high-risk PE. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (13.3% vs. 4.8% P < 0.001) and systemic thrombolysis (25% vs 11.3%; P < 0.001) were used more commonly in catastrophic PE. ConclusionsIn the largest analysis of high-risk PE patients to date, mortality rates were high with the worst outcomes among patients with hemodynamic collapse.

Optional therapeutic management of intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism patients

Background: Few studies have evaluated the thrombolytic treatment in patients with intermediate-high risk pulmonary embolism, making this study more valuable. Material and methods: It was a prospective, non-randomized, open-label, single-center study. Eligible patients at the age of 18 or older with an acute pulmonary embolism (PE) confirmed by CT pulmonary angiography with onset until 14 day and signs of right ventricular (RV) overload on echocardiography took part in the study. Pulmonary Arterial CT Obstruction Index Rate (PACTOIR) was used to define the localization and the expansion zone of thromboembolism. This study included 18 patients with intermediate risk and acute submassive pulmonary thromboembolism. In thrombolysis (TT) group (n=9) were used 50 mg of tissue-plasminogen activator (t-PA) administered in infusion as 0.4 mg/h for 2 hours. In the standard anticoagulation group, unfractioned heparin (UFH) was administered as a bolus of 70 units/kg or a maximum of 5000 units, followed by continuous infusion at an initial rate of 16 units/kg or a maximum of 1000 units/h. Results: The mean age for TT group was 69 vs 63 for the UFH group. PACTOIR was 100% in 3 patients in the half-dose rt-PA group and in 2 patients in the UFH group. RV/LV diameter ratio decreased from baseline to 48 h post-procedure (1.55 vs. 1.13; mean difference, -0.42; p &lt; 0.0001). Mean pulmonary artery systolic pressure was 55 mm Hg in both groups (p &lt; 0.05), with 53 [43–60] in TT group vs. 41.5 [37–45] mmHg in UFH group, P&lt;0.05. Also, RV/ LV ratio and systolic PAP decreased significantly in both groups. Severe bleeding with a need in red blood cell transfusion was seen in 0.11% (1 patient) in the TT group vs 0 in UFH group. The hospitalization length of stay was significantly shorter in the TT group (3.8±1.8, p &lt; 0.05). The rate of secondary endpoints was significantly higher in the UFH group with a high rate of pulmonary hypertension (0 vs. 19%, p=0.003). Conclusions: Half-dose thrombolytic therapy in patients diagnosed with submassive pulmonary embolism significantly reduced death and hemodynamic decompensation in the first 7 days compared to anticoagulant therapy only. With all that being said, it can be concluded that patients with high-intermediate risk PE could benefit from reduced-dose TT.

Outcomes of Catheter-Based Therapy for Cancer-Associated Intermediate or High-Risk Pulmonary Embolism

Background: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a well-known complication of cancer and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The standard of care for the treatment of PE is anticoagulation and systemic thrombolysis for high-risk PE. However, both carry risk of bleeding, and patients with cancer are particularly at higher risk of both bleeding and thrombotic complications. The development of catheter-based therapies (CBT) has provided an alternative reperfusion therapy for patients with high-risk and select intermediate risk PE patients. However, despite the increased prevalence of PE, patients with cancer are often excluded from clinical trials of invasive medical devices, including CBT for PE. Therefore, we investigated outcomes of patients with cancer hospitalized for intermediate or high-risk PE treated with or without CBT. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort analysis of the National Readmission Database (NRD) of adult patients with a primary diagnosis of intermediate or high-risk PE from 2017 and 2018 with a history of cancer, which was identified using ICD-10 codes. High-risk PE was defined as PE with hemodynamic instability (either cardiac arrest, cardiogenic shock, or vasopressor use). Intermediate-risk PE was defined as PE with signs of right ventricular strain (type 2 myocardial infarction or cor pulmonale) without hemodynamic instability. Primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were in-hospital major bleeding (composite of gastrointestinal, intracranial, and post-procedural bleeding), and 90-day any-cause, VTE-related, and bleeding-related readmissions. Propensity scores (PS) for estimating probability of CBT were calculated using non-parsimonious multivariable logistic regression that included all baseline patient characteristics examined. Inverse-probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was utilized to adjust for potential confounders. Patients treated with CBT were compared to those without and standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated for variables before and after IPTW. Imbalances between groups were significant if SMD for any given covariable was ≥ 0.10. Hazard ratios (HR) were estimated for 90-day readmission outcomes using Cox proportional hazards regression, and odds ratio (OR) were calculated for estimating in-hospital outcomes using logistic regression. Results: 3,333 patients were identified of which 388 (11.6%) were treated with CBT. Prior to IPTW, patients treated with CBT were younger (mean age 66.3 vs 67.6 years) and less likely to have metastatic cancer (43.3% vs 50.3%), Khorana high or intermediate risk cancer type (40.5% vs 49.4%) or high-risk PE (34.5% vs 46.3%), Table 1. After IPTW, baseline characteristics were well balanced between groups. After IPTW, CBT was associated with lower risk of in-hospital death (23.3% vs 28.3%, OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.69 - 0.86) but higher risk of in-hospital bleeding (16.4% vs 13.7%, OR 2.34, 95% CI 2.11 - 2.60) which was driven by post-procedure bleeding (12.5% vs 9.2%, OR 1.40, 95% CI 1.20 - 1.64). CBT was also associated with lower 90-day any-cause (HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.79 - 0.98) and VTE-related (HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.35 - 0.83) but not bleeding-related (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.34 - 1.40) readmissions, Figure 1. Conclusions: Patients with cancer admitted with intermediate or high-risk PE have high rates of in-hospital death and bleeding. Treatment with CBT was associated with lower in-hospital death and 90-day any-cause and VTE-related readmissions at the cost of increased in-hospital bleeding driven by post-procedural bleeding. Prospective studies and trials of CBT in PE should include patients with cancer and further investigation is warranted to confirm our findings.

MACHINE LEARNING FOR PREDICTING HEMODYNAMIC DETERIORATION OF PATIENTS WITH INTERMEDIATE-RISK PULMONARY EMBOLISM IN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT.

Background: Intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) are at a higher risk of hemodynamic deterioration than those in the general ward. This study aimed to construct a machine learning (ML) model to accurately identify the tendency for hemodynamic deterioration in the ICU patients with intermediate-risk PE. Method: A total of 704 intermediate-risk PE patients from the MIMIC-IV database were retrospectively collected. The primary outcome was defined as hemodynamic deterioration occurring within 30 days after admission to ICU. Four ML algorithms were used to construct models on the basis of all variables from MIMIC IV database with missing values less than 20%. The extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) model was further simplified for clinical application. The performance of the ML models was evaluated by using the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis. Predictive performance of simplified XGBoost was compared with the simplified Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index score. SHapley Additive explanation (SHAP) was performed on a simplified XGBoost model to calculate the contribution and impact of each feature on the predicted outcome and presents it visually. Results: Among the 704 intermediate-risk PE patients included in this study, 120 patients experienced hemodynamic deterioration within 30 days after admission to the ICU. Simplified XGBoost model demonstrated the best predictive performance with an area under the curve of 0.866 (95% confidence interval, 0.800-0.925), and after recalibrated by isotonic regression, the area under the curve improved to 0.885 (95% confidence interval, 0.822-0.935). Based on the simplified XGBoost model, a web app was developed to identify the tendency for hemodynamic deterioration in ICU patients with intermediate-risk PE. Conclusion: A simplified XGBoost model can accurately predict the occurrence of hemodynamic deterioration for intermediate-risk PE patients in the ICU, assisting clinical workers in providing more personalized management for PE patients in the ICU.

Abstract 15999: Proportional Pulse Pressure and Shock Index as Predictors of Cardiac Index in Patients With Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism

Background: Risk stratification in intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) plays an important role in appropriate selection of therapies, however this is often challenging given variable phenotype. Proportional pulse pressure (PPP) and shock index (SI) have demonstrated to accurately predict cardiac index (CI) in patients with cardiogenic shock. Nonetheless, their applicability to patients with acute PE remains uncertain. Our objective is to investigate whether PPP and SI correlate with invasive assessment of CI in intermediate-risk PE. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients included in the Pulmonary Embolism Response Team (PERT) registry at NYCH+H/Bellevue who underwent invasive hemodynamic assessment. PPP was calculated as systolic blood pressure - diastolic blood pressure/systolic blood pressure. SI was calculated as heart rate/systolic blood pressure. Linear regression and correlation coefficients were used to examine the relationship between PPP, SI and CI as well as other clinical variables. Results: A total of 45 intermediate-risk PE patients were included (mean age was 57 ± 13 years and 43% were female). The SI moderately correlated with the composite pulmonary embolism shock score (CPES) (r = 0.5, p=0.0002), sPESI (r = 0.37, p=0.007), cardiac index (-0.42, p=0.004) and poorly correlated with lactate levels (r=0.23, p=0.18). PPP correlated poorly with CPES (r = 0.01, p=0.96), sPESI (r = -0.04, p=0.73), CI (r = 0.1 p=0.51) and lactate (-0.18, p=0.2). There was poor correlation between SI and PPP (r = -0.17, p=0.23). For every 0.1 increase in the shock index, the cardiac index was lower by 0.17L/minute/m 2 (p=0.017). Conclusions: In patients with intermediate-risk PE, a higher SI was associated with a lower CI, while PPP was not associated with CI. SI may provide additional valuable information to risk-stratify patients with acute PE and can potentially assist clinicians in triaging monitoring level therapeutic decisions.

Comparison of interventions for intermediate to high-risk pulmonary embolism: A network meta-analysis.

Multiple interventions, including catheter-directed therapy (CDT), systemic thrombolysis (ST), surgical embolectomy (SE), and therapeutic anticoagulation (AC) have been used to treat intermediate to high-risk pulmonary embolism (PE), but the most effective and safest treatment remains unclear. Our study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety outcomes of each intervention. We queried PubMed and EMBASE in January 2023 and performed a network meta-analysis of observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCT), including high or intermediate-risk PE patients, and comparing AC, CDT, SE, and ST. The primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and major bleeding. The secondary outcomes included long-term mortality (≥6months), recurrent PE, minor bleeding, and intracranial hemorrhage. We identified 11 RCTs and 42 observational studies involving 157,454 patients. CDT was associated with lower in-hospital mortality than ST (odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.41 [0.31-0.55]), AC (OR [95%CI]: 0.33 [0.20-0.53]), and SE (OR [95%CI]: 0.61 [0.39-0.96]). Recurrent PE in CDT was lower than ST (OR [95%CI]: 0.66 [0.50-0.87]), AC (OR [95%CI]: 0.36 [0.20-0.66]), and trended lower than SE (OR [95%CI]: 0.71 [0.40-1.26]). Notably, ST had higher major bleeding risks than CDT (OR [95% CI]: 1.51 [1.19-1.91]) and AC (OR [95% CI]: 2.21 [1.53-3.19]). By rankogram analysis, CDT presented the highest p-score in in-hospital mortality, long-term mortality, and recurrent PE. In this network meta-analysis of observational studies and RCTs involving patients with intermediate to high-risk PE, CDT was associated with improved mortality outcomes compared to other therapies, without significant additional bleeding risk.

Prevalence and Predictors of Cardiogenic Shock in Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism: Insights From the FLASH Registry

BackgroundPatients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE) and hypotension (high-risk PE) have high mortality. Cardiogenic shock can also occur in nonhypotensive or normotensive patients (intermediate-risk PE) but is less well characterized. ObjectivesThe authors sought to evaluate the prevalence and predictors of normotensive shock in intermediate-risk PE. MethodsIntermediate-risk PE patients in the FLASH (FlowTriever All-Comer Registry for Patient Safety and Hemodynamics) registry undergoing mechanical thrombectomy with the FlowTriever System (Inari Medical) were included. The prevalence of normotensive shock (systolic blood pressure ≥90 mm Hg but cardiac index ≤2.2 L/min/m2) was assessed. A composite shock score consisting of markers of right ventricular function and ischemia (elevated troponin, elevated B-type natriuretic peptide, moderately/severely reduced right ventricular function), central thrombus burden (saddle PE), potential additional embolization (concomitant deep vein thrombosis), and cardiovascular compensation (tachycardia) was prespecified and assessed for its ability to identify normotensive shock patients. ResultsOver one-third of intermediate-risk PE patients in FLASH (131/384, 34.1%) were in normotensive shock. The normotensive shock prevalence was 0% in patients with a composite shock score of 0 and 58.3% in those with a score of 6 (highest score). A score of 6 was a significant predictor of normotensive shock (odds ratio: 5.84; 95% CI: 2.00-17.04). Patients showed significant on-table improvements in hemodynamics post-thrombectomy, including normalization of the cardiac index in 30.5% of normotensive shock patients. Right ventricular size, function, dyspnea, and quality of life significantly improved at the 30-day follow-up. ConclusionsAlthough hemodynamically stable, over one-third of intermediate-risk FLASH patients were in normotensive shock with a depressed cardiac index. A composite shock score effectively further risk stratified these patients. Mechanical thrombectomy improved hemodynamics and functional outcomes at the 30-day follow-up.

Abstract No. 16 Mechanical Thrombectomy Outcomes in Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism Patients: Insights from the FLASH Registry

Abstract No. 16 Mechanical Thrombectomy Outcomes in Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism Patients: Insights from the FLASH Registry

Impact of a Pulmonary Embolism Response Team on the Management and Outcomes of Patients With Acute Pulmonary Embolisms

Pulmonary embolism response teams (PERTs) are multidisciplinary teams that specialize in rapid pulmonary embolism (PE) assessment and management. PERTs are especially useful in the management of intermediate-risk PE patients due to a paucity of guideline recommendations, but their utilization and effectiveness varies considerably across institutions. At our institution, this team comprises vascular surgery, cardiothoracic surgery, cardiology, and pulmonary medicine.

869: MORTALITY AND BLEEDING RISKS OF INTERVENTIONS FOR HIGH- AND INTERMEDIATE-RISK PULMONARY EMBOLISM

Introduction: Multiple strategies have been used to treat patients at high and intermediate risk of mortality from an acute pulmonary embolism (PE), but the most effective and safest treatment remains poorly defined. We aimed to investigate the mortality and bleeding complications in high/intermediate risk PE patients following different treatments. Methods: We searched PubMed and EMBASE databases from inception to July 2022 and included observational studies and randomized controlled trials (RCT) encompassing high and intermediate risk PE patients and comparing at least two of the following treatments: systemic thrombolysis (ST), anticoagulation only (AC), catheter-directed intervention (CDI), and surgical embolectomy (SE). The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. The secondary outcomes were 1-year mortality, major or minor bleeding. Results: This network meta-analysis identified four RCTs and 27 observational studies involving 117,628 patients. CDI was associated with lower in-hospital mortality than ST (OR [95%CI]: 0.42 [0.32-0.55]), AC (OR [95%CI]: 0.43 [0.27-0.66]), and SE (OR [95%CI]: 0.52 [0.33-0.82]). AC was associated with higher 1-year mortality than the other strategies. AC was associated with the lowest risk of major bleeding compared to ST (OR [95%CI]: 0.46 [0.29-0.74]), CDI (OR [95%CI]: 0.61 [0.38-0.99]), and SE (OR [95%CI]: 0.44 [0.23-0.85]). Furthermore, CDI was associated with lower risks of major bleeding than ST (OR [95%CI]: 0.75 [0.58-0.96]). AC was associated with lower risks of minor bleeding than ST and CDI, whereas CDI was also associated with a lower risk of minor bleeding compared to ST. Conclusions: In patients with high/intermediate risk PE, CDI was associated with lower mortality and decreased bleeding complications compared to other treatment strategies. Further studies including randomized control studies are required to validate our findings.

Abstract 14686: Prevalence and Predictors of Normotensive Shock in Intermediate-Risk Pulmonary Embolism

Introduction: In patients presenting with pulmonary embolism (PE) and shock/hypotension (high-risk PE), immediate thrombolytic therapy or mechanical thrombectomy is recommended. However, the prevalence and predictors of normotensive shock in patients with intermediate-risk PE are not well defined. Methods: PE patients undergoing mechanical thrombectomy with the FlowTriever System (Inari Medical) were enrolled in the FLASH Registry. Patients were included in this analysis if they were intermediate-risk per ESC guidelines (i.e., normotensive) and had cardiac index (CI) measured pre- and post-thrombectomy. Invasive hemodynamics were measured pre- and post-thrombectomy and compared using paired data. Patients were grouped into those with normotensive shock (CI ≤ 2.2 l/min/m 2 ) or without shock (CI &gt; 2.2 l/min/m 2 ). Multiple logistic regression was used to identify baseline predictors of normotensive shock. Safety outcomes through 30 days were recorded. Results: Out of 384 intermediate-risk PE patients, more than one-third (131, 34.1%) were in normotensive shock at baseline. The shock group had significantly lower BMI, higher RV/LV ratio, and higher rates of moderately/severely reduced RV function and concomitant DVT (Table). Significant predictors of shock included tachycardia, distal concomitant DVT, moderately/severely reduced RV function, and saddle PE. The normotensive shock group showed significant on-table improvement in CI and mean PA pressure post-thrombectomy (Figure). Safety profiles were not significantly different between groups, with similarly low rates of major adverse events and mortality through 30 days (Table). Conclusion Although identified as intermediate-risk, over one-third of patients had normotensive shock, suggesting they may be at risk of hemodynamic deterioration despite appearing stable. Treatment with mechanical thrombectomy improved patient hemodynamics on the table, with low rates of mortality in both groups.

Intermediate risk pulmonary embolism concomitant with or without lung cancer: a wide spectrum of features

ABSTRACT Objectives We aimed to investigate the differences in clinical features between pulmonary embolism (PE) patients concomitant with lung cancer and without lung cancer (LC) and gain further understanding of the impact of lung cancer on pulmonary embolism. Methods This retrospective study sampled 114 patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism from January 2017 to April 2021 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University. The patients were categorized into the LC group (n = 22) or non-LC group (n = 92). Myocardial injury, coagulation and blood cell parameters, along with imaging findings, were analyzed for the two groups. The primary outcome measure was the 90-day mortality. Results Of the 114 patients with pulmonary embolism in the present study, the 90 intermediate-risk patients were enrolled for further investigations. Compared to the non-LC group, patients in the LC group had milder myocardial injury, more severe coagulation function disorder, a higher incidence of central PE and a smaller change in diameter of the main pulmonary artery. We found that the occurrence of pericardial effusion created the risk of lung cancer in patients with pulmonary embolism, but there was no increase in the 90-day mortality for non-LC group versus LC group. Conclusion Intermediate risk PE patients concomitant with lung cancer seem to be more likely to present specific clinical features, accordingly, clinicians must pay great attention to PE patients concomitant with lung cancer and implement effective treatments to simultaneously manage the two conditions.

Intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism: echocardiography predictors of clinical deterioration

BackgroundWe determine the predictive value of transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE) metrics for clinical deterioration within 5 days in adults with intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (PE).MethodsThis was a prospective observational study of intermediate-risk PE patients. To determine associations of TTE and clinical predictors with clinical deterioration, we used univariable analysis, Youden’s index for optimal thresholds, and multivariable analyses to report odds ratios (ORs) or area under the curve (AUC).ResultsOf 306 intermediate-risk PE patients, 115 (37.6%) experienced clinical deterioration. PE patients who had clinical deterioration within 5 days had greater baseline right ventricle (RV) dilatation and worse systolic function than the group without clinical deterioration as indicated by the following: RV basal diameter 4.46 ± 0.77 versus 4.20 ± 0.77 cm; RV/LV basal width ratio 1.14 ± 0.29 versus 1.02 ± 0.24; tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) 1.56 ± 0.55 versus 1.80 ± 0.52 cm; and RV systolic excursion velocity 10.40 ± 3.58 versus 12.1 ± 12.5 cm/s, respectively. Optimal thresholds for predicting clinical deterioration were: RV basal width 3.9 cm (OR 2.85 [1.64, 4.97]), RV-to-left ventricle (RV/LV) ratio 1.08 (OR 3.32 [2.07, 5.33]), TAPSE 1.98 cm (OR 3.3 [2.06, 5.3]), systolic excursion velocity 10.10 cm/s (OR 2.85 [1.75, 4.63]), and natriuretic peptide 190 pg/mL (OR 2.89 [1.81, 4.62]). Significant independent predictors were: transient hypotension 6.1 (2.2, 18.9), highest heart rate 1.02 (1.00, 1.03), highest respiratory rate 1.02 (1.00, 1.04), and RV/LV ratio 1.29 (1.14, 1.47). By logistic regression and random forest analyses, AUCs were 0.80 (0.73, 0.87) and 0.78 (0.70, 0.85), respectively.ConclusionsBasal RV, RV/LV ratio, and RV systolic function measurements were significantly different between intermediate-risk PE patients grouped by subsequent clinical deterioration.

Echocardiographic predictors of mortality in intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism.

Data regarding further risk stratification of intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism (IR-PE) are scanty. Whether transthoracic echocardiography may be helpful in further risk assessment of death in such population has still to be proven. Two-hundred fifty-four consecutive patients (51.6% females, age 63.7 ± 17.3years) with IR-PE admitted to a tertiary regional referral center were enrolled. Patients underwent a complete transthoracic echocardiography within 36h from hospital admission, on top of clinical assessment, physical examination, computer tomography pulmonary angiography (CTPA), and serum measurement of Troponin I (TnI) levels. The occurrence of 90day mortality was chosen as primary outcome measure. When compared to survivors, non-surviving IR-PE patients had smaller left-ventricular end-diastolic volumes (39.8 ± 20.9 vs 49.4 ± 19.9ml/m2, p = 0.006) with reduced stroke volume index (SVi) (24.7 ± 10.9 vs 30.9 ± 12.6ml/m2, p: 0.004) and time-velocity integral at left-ventricular outflow tract (VTILVOT) (0.17 ± 0.03 vs 0.20 ± 0.04m, p = 0.0001), whereas no differences were recorded regarding right heart parameters. Cox regression analysis revealed that right atrial enlargement (RAE) (HR 3.432, 5-95% CI 1.193-9.876, p: 0.022), the ratio between tricuspid annulus plane excursion and pulmonary arterial systolic pressure (TAPSE/PASp) (HR 4.833, 5-95% 1.230-18.986, p = 0.024), as well as SVi (HR 11.199, 5-95% CI 2.697-48.096, p = 0.001) and VTILVOT (HR 4.212, 5-95% CI 1.384-12.820, p = 0.011) were powerful independent predictors of mortality. Neither CTPA RV/LV nor TnI resulted associated with impaired survival. In intermediate-risk pulmonary embolism, RAE, TAPSE/PASp ratio, SVi, and VTILVOT predict independently prognosis to a greater extent than CTPA and TnI.

Large-Bore Aspiration Thrombectomy: Catalyst for a Revolution in Treating Pulmonary Embolism

Large-Bore Aspiration Thrombectomy: Catalyst for a Revolution in Treating Pulmonary Embolism

Modified FAST score as a predictor of fibrinolysis in normotensive patients with acute pulmonary embolism

Abstract Introduction Intermediate risk pulmonary embolism (PE) encompass a heterogeneous group of patients with very distinct prognosis. While some patients will only need anticoagulation, in others fibrinolytic therapy (FT) should be considered in order to prevent further hemodynamic decompensation. It is very important to identify the subgroup of intermediate risk PE patients at highest risk of an adverse outcome in whom FT may be needed. Modified FAST score was developed to identify non-high risk PE patients at highest risk of early PE-related complications. This study aims to evaluate if modified FAST score is a predictor of necessity of FT. Methods A retrospective analysis of 178 patients admitted for acute PE was performed. Modified FAST score evaluates the presence of syncope (1.5 points), troponin I elevation (1.5 points) and heart rate ≥100bpm (2 points), ranging from 0–5 points (&amp;lt;3 points low risk and ≥3 points intermediate-high risk for adverse in-hospital outcome). PESI score was also calculated for each patient. The Mann-Whitney U was used for comparisons between groups. Binary logistic regressions were used to obtain the odds ratio (OR) for FT of the various variables. ROC curves allowed the comparison of modified FAST and PESI scores. Results Mean age was 63±18 years; 61% were female; 8.5% had previous history of venous thromboembolism; 48% of patients had a precipitating factor identified; 58% had signs of right ventricle dilation on echocardiography (echo) and/or chest computed tomography (CCT). 47% had low risk (LR) and 53% had intermediate-high risk (IHR), according to modified FAST score. Mean FAST score was 2.22±1.4. There were no differences between patients with LR or IHR regarding age, sex and precipitating factor. IHR was associated with dyspnea (p=0.002), lower arterial systolic pressure at admission (p=0.007), higher levels of D-dimer (p=0.013), S1Q3T3 pattern (p=0.001) and right bundle branch block pattern (p=0.005) in electrocardiography and higher right ventricle diameter in echo and CCT (p=0.006). During hospitalization patients with IHR had more worsening of renal function (p=0.015). Patients with IRH were submitted more frequently to FT than patients with LR (65% vs 39%; p=0.001). Modified FAST score was a predictor of FT (OR 2.9; 95% CI 1.5–5.5; p&amp;lt;0.001) and was independent of PESI score (OR 2.9; 95% CI 1.5–5.6; p=z0.001). ROC curve analysis revealed a higher area under the curve for modified FAST score comparing to PESI score (0.659 vs 0.497). Conclusion IHR modified FAST score was associated with characteristics of poor prognosis in PE. Furthermore, modified FAST score was a predictor of FT in normotensive patients with PE, and was independent of PESI score. Therefore, this score may be useful to select patients with PE that will benefit from FT. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Abstract 16623: Interim Acute and 30-day Results of the Flash Registry

Introduction: FLASH, a prospective multi-center all-comers registry, is designed to evaluate real-world outcomes in pulmonary embolism (PE) patients treated with the FlowTriever System (Inari Medical, Irvine, CA). The FlowTriever System is designed to extract large PE thrombus without a need for thrombolytic drugs. Methods: FLASH will enroll up to 500 patients who will be evaluated through 6 months. The primary endpoint is a major adverse events composite of device-related death and major bleeding at 48 hours, and periprocedural device or procedure-related AEs. Secondary endpoints include changes in acute hemodynamics, utility measures, and longer-term clinical outcomes. Acute data in 203 patients and 30-day data in 170 patients has been analyzed. Results and Conclusion: This analyzed cohort included 10% high-risk and 90% intermediate-risk PE patients. The mean RV/LV ratio was 1.54±0.47, sPESI was 1.54±1.06, concomitant DVT was present in 72% and elevated biomarkers in 97% of patients. The primary endpoint occurred in 2 patients (1%) both were major bleeds (non-ICH). There were no periprocedural device related injuries or clinical deteriorations. No deaths (0% mortality) were reported at 48 hours. Significant on-table improvement in hemodynamics were seen, including an average reduction in mean PA pressure of 20% (6.1 mmHg, p&lt;0.0001) and a reduction in heart rate from a pre-procedure high of 111.9±16.9 bpm to 90.5±16.6 bpm (p&lt;0.0001). Patients with low cardiac index (&lt;2l/min/m 2 ) experienced an 18% on table improvement (0.3 l/min/m 2 , p&lt;0.0001). At 30-day follow-up, one patient had died, unrelated to the procedure (0.6% mortality) and 10 patients were readmitted (1 related, 9 unrelated to the procedure). Dyspnea significantly improved from a pre-procedure Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea Scale average grade of 2.6±1.4 to 0.76±1.1 at 30 days, and 0.54±1 at 6 months (p&lt;0.0001). In conclusion, early results demonstrate excellent safety with immediate improvements in hemodynamics and low 30-day mortality. Data analysis is ongoing and additional results will be presented at the conference.

Immediate and late impact of reperfusion therapies in acute pulmonary embolism.

Haemodynamic instability and right ventricular dysfunction are the key determinants of short-term prognosis in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE). Residual thrombi and persistent right ventricular dysfunction may contribute to post-PE functional impairment, and influence the risk of developing chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Patients with haemodynamic instability at presentation (high-risk PE) require immediate primary reperfusion to relieve the obstruction in the pulmonary circulation and increase the chances of survival. Surgical removal of the thrombi or catheter-directed reperfusion strategies is alternatives in patients with contraindications to systemic thrombolysis. For haemodynamically stable patients with signs of right ventricular overload or dysfunction (intermediate-risk PE), systemic standard-dose thrombolysis is currently not recommended, because the risk of major bleeding associated with the treatment outweighs its benefits. In such cases, thrombolysis should be considered only as a rescue intervention if haemodynamic decompensation develops. Catheter-directed pharmaco-logical and pharmaco-mechanical techniques ensure swift recovery of echocardiographic and haemodynamic parameters and may be characterized by better safety profile than systemic thrombolysis. For survivors of acute PE, little is known on the effects of reperfusion therapies on the risk of chronic functional and haemodynamic impairment. In intermediate-risk PE patients, available data suggest that systemic thrombolysis may have little impact on long-term symptoms and functional limitation, echocardiographic parameters, and occurrence of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension. Ongoing and future interventional studies will clarify whether ‘safer’ reperfusion strategies may improve early clinical outcomes without increasing the risk of bleeding and contribute to reducing the burden of long-term complications after intermediate-risk PE.