Major Adverse Cardiac Outcomes Research Articles

1-year outcomes of patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes in Western Cape, South Africa: findings from the PERFUSION ACS registry

Abstract Background Cardiovascular disease(CVD), particularly acute myocardial infarction(MI), has emerged as a public health challenge in South Africa(SA), however, there is a paucity of data regarding long-term clinical outcomes such as CVD mortality, heart failure, stroke and recurrence of MI in this region. Purpose To determine 1-year major adverse cardiac outcomes among individuals discharged alive following admission for troponin-positive Acute Coronary Syndromes(ACS) in Western Cape, SA. Methods Between February 2021 and May 2022, 838 adults(≥18 years) with a diagnosis of ACS were prospectively enrolled into the investigator-initiated, multi-center PrEsentation, Rationale, and impact of reperFUSION for Acute Coronary Syndromes (PERFUSION ACS) registry. Participants were enrolled at a tertiary-care referral center and four secondary-level healthcare facilities. Key data elements were measured at index admission, including baseline demographics, risk factors, clinical presentation, complications, laboratory tests, revascularization strategies, and discharge medication. Survivors at discharge provided consent for 30-day and 12-month telephonic evaluations for major adverse cardiovascular events(MACE), which were captured on a web-based system that was centrally managed and analyzed. Results Of 838 participants, 39% were female, one-third were <55 years of age, 76% had a history of smoking, 74% had hypertension, 58% had dyslipidemia, and 56% were obese. STEMI accounted for 51% of cases, with NSTEMI in 49%. Baseline data for the cohort, stratified into two categories of MI, are provided in Table 1. Median duration from symptom onset to hospital presentation was 10.42 (±15.26) hours, with a majority(80%) presenting first to a non-PCI-capable facility. Among STEMI cases, two-thirds received thrombolysis(65%), primarily with Streptokinase; 49% underwent angiography via a pharmacoinvasive strategy, and 3% received primary percutaneous coronary intervention(PCI). Overall, 57% of patients with NSTEMI were treated with an invasive approach. The one-year all-cause mortality was 21%, with 88% attributable to cardiovascular disease-related death. Cumulative MACE rate at one year was 57%. Event rates for the individual MACE components were 32% for heart failure, 19% for non-fatal MI, and 6% for non-fatal stroke. 6% of participants died in-hospital, while 30-day mortality was 9%. There were no significant differences in all-cause mortality between STEMI and NSTEMI at 1 year. Conclusion Troponin-positive ACS are associated with a high rate of 12-month mortality and non-fatal major adverse cardiac events in Western Cape, SA. The concerning registry findings emphasize the need to prioritize ischemic heart disease prevention and management, and highlight important gaps in care which can serve as targets for improvement throughout the country.PERFUSION: Table 1PERFUSION: All-cause mortality and MACE

Population-wide eGFR percentiles in younger adults and clinical outcomes.

Identifying meaningful estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) reductions in younger adults (<65 years) could guide prevention efforts. To aid in interpretation and identification of young adults at risk, we examined the association of population-level eGFR percentiles relative to the median by age and clinical outcomes. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 8.7 million adults from Ontario, Canada from age 18 to 65 from 2008 to 2021 with an eGFR measure (both single outpatient value and repeat measures). We calculated median eGFR values by age and examined the association of reduced eGFR percentiles (≤10th, 5th, 2.5th and 1st) with outcomes using time to event models. Outcomes were a composite of all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiac outcomes (MACE) with/without heart failure (MACE+) and kidney failure as well as each component individually. From age 18 to 65, the median eGFR declined with age (range 128 to 90) and across percentiles [eGFR ranges 102 to 68 for ≤10th, 96 to 63 for ≤5th, 90 to 58 for ≤2.5th and 83 to 54 for 1st]. The adjusted rate for any adverse outcome was elevated at ≤ 10th percentile (HR 1.14 95%CI 1.10-1.18) and was consistent for all-cause mortality, MACE, MACE+ and predominant for kidney failure (HR 5.57 95%CI 3.79-8.19) compared to the median eGFR for age. Young adults with an eGFR in the lower percentiles were less likely to be referred to a specialist, have a repeat eGFR or albumin to creatinine ratio measure. eGFR values at the 10th percentile or lower based on a population-level distribution are associated with adverse clinical outcomes and in younger adults (18 to 39) this corresponds to a higher level of eGFR that may be underrecognized. Application of population-based eGFR percentiles may aid interpretation and improve identification of younger adults at risk.

Performance of Manchester Acute Coronary Syndromes decision rules in acute coronary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Multiple decision-aiding models are available to help physicians identify acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and accelerate the decision-making process in emergency departments (EDs). This study evaluated the diagnostic performance of the Manchester Acute Coronary Syndrome (MACS) rule and its derivations, enhancing the evidence for their clinical use. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed. Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from inception until October 2023 for studies including adult ED patients with suspected cardiac chest pain and inconclusive findings requiring ACS risk-stratification. The predictive value of MACS, Troponin-only MACS (T-MACS), or History and Electrocardiogram-only MACS (HE-MACS) decision aids for diagnosing acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and 30-day major adverse cardiac outcomes (MACEs) among patients admitted to ED with chest pain suspected of ACS. Overall sensitivity and specificity were synthesized using the 'Diagma' package in STATA statistical software. Applicability and risk of bias assessment were performed using the QUADAS-2 tool. For AMI detection, MACS has a sensitivity of 99% [confidence interval (CI): 97-100], specificity of 19% (CI: 10-32), and AUC of 0.816 (CI: 0.720-0.885). T-MACS shows a sensitivity of 98% (CI: 98-99), specificity of 35% (CI: 29-42), and AUC of 0.859 (CI: 0.824-0.887). HE-MACS exhibits a sensitivity of 99% (CI: 98-100), specificity of 9% (CI: 3-21), and AUC of 0.787 (CI: 0.647-0.882). For MACE detection, MACS demonstrates a sensitivity of 98% (CI: 94-100), specificity of 22% (CI: 10-42), and AUC of 0.804 (CI: 0.659-0.897). T-MACS displays a sensitivity of 96% (CI: 94-98), specificity of 36% (CI: 30-43), and AUC of 0.792 (CI: 0.748-0.830). HE-MACS maintains a sensitivity of 99% (CI: 97-99), specificity of 10% (CI 6-16), and AUC of 0.713 (CI: 0.625-0.787). Of all the MACS models, T-MACS displayed the highest overall accuracy due to its high sensitivity and significantly superior specificity. T-MACS exhibits very good diagnostic performance in predicting both AMI and MACE. This makes it a highly promising tool for managing patients with acute chest pain.

External validation of a rapid algorithm using high-sensitivity troponin assay results for evaluating patients with suspected acute myocardial infarction

ObjectiveWe sought to validate the clinical performance of a rapid assessment pathway incorporating the Siemens Atellica IM high sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) assay in patients presenting to the emergency...

The Impact of an Accelerated Diagnostic Protocol Using Conventional Troponin I for Patients With Cardiac Chest Pain in the Emergency Department

BackgroundThis study strove to assess the impact of the implementation of an accelerated diagnostic protocol (ADP), using shortened serial-testing intervals and a conventional troponin I (c-TnI) test, on emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS). MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included adults (aged ≥ 18 years) presenting to a Canadian ED with a primary complaint of cardiac chest pain between January 14, 2017 and January 15, 2019. For non-high-risk patients, the troponin delta timing decreased from 6 hours to 3 hours, and a different conventional troponin I level cut-point was implemented on January 15, 2018. The primary outcome was ED LOS. Secondary outcomes included disposition status, consultation proportions, and major adverse cardiac events within 30 days. ResultsA total of 3133 patient interactions were included. Although the overall decrease in median ED LOS was not significant (P = 0.074), a significant reduction occurred in ED LOS (-33 minutes; 95% confidence interval: -53.6 to -12.4 minutes) among patients who were discharged in the post-ADP group. Consultations were unchanged between groups (36.1% before vs 33.8% after; P = 0.17). The major adverse cardiac events outcomes were unchanged across cohorts (15.9% vs 15.3%; P = 0.62). ConclusionsThe implementation of an ADP, with a conventional troponin I test, for cardiac chest pain in a Canadian ED was not associated with a significant reduction of LOS for all patients; however, a significant reduction occurred for patients who were discharged, and the strategy appears safe.

Transcatheter Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Multicenter Propensity Score-Based Analysis

BackgroundThe prognostic impact of catheter ablation (CA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients has not yet been satisfactorily elucidated. ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to assess the impact of CA of AF on clinical outcomes in a large cohort of HCM patients. MethodsIn this retrospective multicenter study, 555 HCM patients with AF were enrolled, 140 undergoing CA and 415 receiving medical therapy. 1:1 propensity score matching led to the inclusion of 226 patients (113 medical group, 113 intervention group) in the final analysis. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality, heart transplant and acute heart failure exacerbations. Secondary outcomes included AF recurrence and transition to permanent AF. Additionally, an inverse probability weighted (IPW) model was examined. ResultsAt propensity score matching analysis, after a median follow-up of 58.1 months, the primary endpoint occurred in 29 (25.7%) patients in intervention group vs 42 (37.2%) in medical group (P = 0.9). Thromboembolic strokes and major arrhythmic events in intervention vs medical group were 9.7% vs 7.1% (P = 0.144) and 4.4 vs 8.0% (P = 0.779), respectively. Fewer patients in intervention vs medical group experienced AF recurrences (63.7% vs 84.1%, P = 0.001) and transition to permanent AF pattern (20.4% vs 33.6%, P = 0.026). IPW analysis showed consistent results. Severe complications related to CA were uncommon (0.7%). ConclusionsAfter 5 years of follow-up, CA did not improve major adverse cardiac outcomes in a large cohort of patients with HCM and AF. Nevertheless, CA seems to facilitate the maintenance of sinus rhythm and slow the progression to permanent AF, without significant safety concerns.

Circulating biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related myocarditis: time for a risk-based approach.

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are monoclonal antibodies that block immune checkpoints and therefore activate immune cells, allowing them to recognize and attack cancer cells. ICIs have revolutionized oncology practice, but their use has been complicated by immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Of cardiovascular (CV) irAEs, ICI-related myocarditis has received significant attention due to high mortality rates, ranging from 25% to 50%, despite its overall low incidence. Establishing the early diagnosis of ICI-myocarditis is important for early initiation of steroids and consideration of hospitalization in patients who are at risk for hemodynamic compromise and need high acuity care in a tertiary setting. In this review, we summarize the diagnostic and prognostic tools for ICI-myocarditis, including electrocardiography, echocardiography, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, with emphasis on circulating biomarkers. Cardiac troponins (cTns) are an essential component of the diagnosis of ICI-myocarditis, and we provide a summary of the recent studies that utilized different assays (cTnI vs. cTnT) and outcomes (diagnosis vs. prognosis including major adverse cardiac outcomes). With the exponential increase in ICI use across different oncology indications, there is a major need to include biomarkers in risk stratification to guide diagnosis and treatment. Our review proposes a framework for future multisite registries, including cTn evaluation at baseline and at the time of irAE suspicion, with development of central biobanking to allow head-to-head evaluation and clinical validation of different biomarker assays in ICI-myocarditis. This approach, with the inclusion of CV biomarkers into clinical and pragmatic oncology trials, holds promise to improve the early recognition and management of ICI-myocarditis and CV irAEs, thus leading to better outcomes.

Effect of a High-Sensitivity Troponin I and Associated Diagnostic Protocol on Emergency Department Length of Stay: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BackgroundThe objective of this study was to assess the introduction of a high-sensitivity troponin I (hs-TnI) assay and its associated accelerated protocol on emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS) for patients presenting with chest pain, compared to an accelerated diagnostic protocol using conventional troponin (TnI) testing. MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of all adults with a primary presenting complaint of chest pain of cardiac origin and a Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale score of 2 or 3, between November 8, 2019 and November 9, 2021, to a tertiary-care urban Canadian ED. The primary outcome was ED LOS. Secondary outcomes included consultation proportions and major adverse cardiac events within 30 days of the index ED visit. ResultsA total of 2640 patients presenting with chest pain were included, with 1333 in the TnI group and 1307 in the hs-TnI group. Median ED LOS decreased significantly, from 392 minutes for the TnI group, and 371 minutes for the hs-TnI group (median difference = 21 minutes; 95% confidence interval: 5.3, 36.7). The numbers of consultations and admissions were not statistically different between study periods. The major adverse cardiac events outcomes did not change following the implementation of the hs-TnI test (13.6% vs 13.1%; P = 0.71). ConclusionsThe implementation of an accelerated chest pain protocol using an hs-TnI assay in a tertiary-care Canadian ED was associated with a modest reduction of LOS for all patients, and a substantial reduction of LOS for patients undergoing serial troponin testing. This strategy was safe, with no increase in adverse outcomes.

Myocardial fibrosis and prognosis in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: a pooled analysis of 12 cohort studies.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a syndrome with significant clinical heterogeneity. Myocardial fibrosis has been considered a common pathological process in the development and progress of HFpEF. This study aimed to consolidate data on the prognostic effect of myocardial fibrosis, evaluated by cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging in patients with HFpEF. Three medical databases were searched for potentially related articles up to February 28, 2023. Cohort studies reporting associations between myocardial fibrosis and risk of all-cause mortality or composite major adverse cardiac outcomes (MACE) were included. Cardiac fibrosis was evaluated by CMR metrics, including late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) or myocardial extracellular volume (ECV). The hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of the outcomes for higher myocardial fibrosis were calculated. Twelve studies with 2787 patients with HFpEF were included for analysis. After a median follow-up duration of 31.2 months, a higher level of cardiac fibrosis was associated with a significant increase in the risk of MACE (HR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.14-1.57) and all-cause mortality (HR = 1.74, 95% CI = 1.27-2.39), respectively. Furthermore, the increased risk of outcomes was both observed when cardiac fibrosis was defined according to LGE or ECV, respectively. Higher burden of myocardial fibrosis evaluated by CMR can predict a poor prognosis in patients with HFpEF. Evaluation of LGE or ECV based on CMR could be recommended in these patients for risk stratification and guiding further treatment. Inclusion of cardiovascular magnetic resonance examination in the diagnostic and risk-evaluation algorithms in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction should be considered in clinical practice and future studies. • Myocardial fibrosis is a common pathological process in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. • A higher myocardial fibrosis burden on cardiac magnetic resonance predicts a poor prognosis in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. • Evaluation of myocardial fibrosis may be useful in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction for risk stratification and treatment guidance.

How Should I Treat Under Expanded Coronary Stents Due to Severe Coronary Calcification?

With aging society, one of the more challenging obstacles in percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) are calcified coronary lesions (CAC). CAC may impede stent delivery; limit balloon and stent expansion, which result in lower minimal stent area (MSA), cause uneven drug distribution, and even hinder wire advancement [1-4]. Lower MSA and stent under-expansion are associated with adverse outcomes, including stent thrombosis, restenosis, and major adverse cardiac outcomes (MACE) [5,6].

Risk Factors for Major Adverse Cardiac Events Outcomes in Post Percutaneous Coronary Intervention during Index Admission

Introduction: Patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) often undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures during their index hospitalisation. However, some factors may increase the risk of major adverse cardiac event (MACE) outcomes after delaying PCI. We aimed to determine the risk factors for MACE outcomes in acute STEMI patients who had PCI during their index admission. Methods: In this retrospective single-center study, the medical records of STEMI patients who had PCI during their index hospitalisation in our facility were retrieved. At 30 days and six months post-PCI, demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, coronary risk factors, and the rate of MACE outcome were recorded and analysed. Results: This study included 91 STEMI patients. At 30 days and six months post-PCI, the rate of MACE was 10.5% and 8.0% respectively. At 30 days post-PCI, gender (p = 0.025), systolic blood pressure (p = 0.005) and heart rate (p = 0.003) were all associated with MACE outcomes. At six months, systolic blood pressure (p = 0.017), heart rate (p = 0.003), and previous coronary artery disease (CAD) (p = 0.014) were all associated with MACE. Conclusion: In acute STEMI patients, female gender, systolic blood pressure, heart rate, and a history of CAD are the risk factors for MACE outcomes after the PCI during the index admission. However, this is only single center study with short follow up period. Therefore, multi centers study and longer follow up period could provide better understanding on the factors associated with delayed PCI.

Association between Frontal QRS-T Angle and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events among Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Acute myocardial infarction has reached epidemic proportions in the Indian population. The premature onset of acute myocardial infarction has shifted the focus of research. An abnormal frontal QRS-T angle can be used as a marker of acute myocardial infarction and can also predict Major Adverse Cardiac Events (MACE) such as heart failure, complex ventricular arrhythmias (sustained ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation), early post-infarction angina, mechanical complications, and cardiac death resulting from acute myocardial infarction. Predicting the likelihood of serious adverse cardiovascular events and mortality in patients who have experienced an acute myocardial infarction aids in developing immediate and short-term treatment plans. Aim: To assess the association between the Frontal QRS-T angle and MACE among patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction (MI). Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on adult patients admitted with a diagnosis of acute MI at the Department of Medicine, BLDE (Deemed to be University) Shri B.M. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Vijayapura, Karnataka, India from January 2021 to June 2022. A total of 95 patients were enrolled in the study and classified into two groups: Group A (n=68) with a frontal QRS-T angle of &lt;100 degrees, and Group B (n=27) with a frontal QRS-T angle of &gt;100 degrees. The patients were monitored for the emergence of serious MACE such as heart failure, pulmonary oedema, cardiogenic shock, arrhythmias, and death while they were in the hospital. Statistical analysis was performed using the Chisquare test, Independent t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test as applicable. A p-value of &lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The most common age group in Group A was 60-70 years, while in Group B it was 50-60 years. A total of 95 patients with acute MI were enrolled and divided into two groups. Out of 95 patients, 68 patients with a frontal QRS-T angle &lt;100 degrees were in Group A, and 27 patients with a frontal QRS-T angle &gt;100 degrees were in Group B. There was a significant difference between the two groups with respect to MACE, including heart failure (Group A=8.8%, Group B=77.8%, p=0.00), pulmonary oedema (Group A=10.3%, Group B=77.8%, p=0.00), and cardiogenic shock (Group A=7.4%, Group B=40.7%, p=0.00). Conclusion: A frontal QRS-T angle of &gt;100 degrees was a reliable factor for assessing in-hospital major adverse cardiac outcomes such as heart failure, pulmonary oedema, and cardiogenic shock. Hence, a frontal QRS-T angle of &gt;100 degrees on a 12-lead ECG is a cost-effective, reliable, and noninvasive parameter of MACE in patients with acute MI.

Abstract 11771: Impact of Overweight/Obesity/Higher Body Mass Index on Long-Term Major Adverse Cardiac Outcomes Following Chronic Total Occlusion-Percutaneous Coronary Interventions- A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: Obesity is usually associated with worse cardiovascular outcomes. However, fewer studies have evaluated its impact on long-term major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) following CTO PCI. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the same. Methods: PUBMED, Scopus, and EMBASE were systematically searched for studies reporting long-term (at least &gt;1 year) outcomes with obesity vs no obesity in patients with CTO PCI. MACE events [all-cause mortality, cardiac mortality, revascularization, restenosis/reocclusion, recurrent angina pectoris (RAP), target-vessel myocardial infarction (MI), heart failure, cardiac death, or ischemia-driven target-vessel revascularization (TVR) were the primary endpoint. Pooled odds ratios (OR) and heterogeneity were assessed with random-effects models and I2 statistics respectively. Subgroup analysis was performed to assess the risk by age group and follow-up duration. The leave-one-study-out method was used for sensitivity analysis. Results: After an initial electronic search of thirty-two studies, five studies were selected, and between 2016 to 2021 selected were included in the final analysis. The sample size consisted of 5022 patients with a median age of 63. No significant impact of higher BMI/obesity was seen overall on a median duration of 2.6 yrs [OR(95% CI)= 0.95 (0.82-1.11), p=0.53, I 2 = 90.86%)] (Fig 1). However, on a subgroup analysis, the geriatric age group (≥65 yrs) demonstrated an "Obesity Paradox" effect on MACE after CTO PCI, [OR (95%CI)=0.64 (0.47-0.88), I 2= 42.13, p&lt;0.01]. There was no difference in a subgroup analysis based on follow-up duration (≥3 years [OR (95%CI)=0.73 (0.42-1.27)] vs &lt;3 years OR (95%CI)=1.04 (0.84-1.27)]. Conclusions: Although higher BMI/obesity was not associated with overall long-term MACE in CTO PCI, the subgroup analysis demonstrated the "Obesity Paradox" (protective) effect in studies with a predominantly geriatric population.

Clinical Profile and Sex-Specific Recovery With Cardiac Rehabilitation After Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery

BackgroundCardiac rehabilitation (CR) improves major adverse cardiac outcomes in patients recovering from myocardial infarction. CR influences outcomes through attenuation of cardiac risk factors, lifestyle changes, and biological effects on endothelial function. The clinical profile and sex-specific outcomes with CR after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is less well defined. MethodsThis retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients undergoing elective or urgent CABG was performed between 2014 and 2016 at a single site. Patients requiring concomitant procedures were excluded. Patients received referral to a 12-week, 36-session CR program standardized through the health care system and tracked via electronic health records. Clinical data and complications during hospitalization were abstracted from Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) registry and matched with 12-months outcomes from electronic health records. Primary composite outcomes were mortality and STS-defined complications within 12 months after CABG. Kaplan-Meier plots for mortality were generated from conditional 6-month survival data. FindingsOf 756 patients undergoing CABG, 420 met the eligibility criteria (mean age, 66 years). Women (18%) had a similar cardiac risk profile to men except for a higher hemoglobin A1c level and lower hematocrit before surgery. Women had similar extent of revascularization to men but had higher rates of intraoperative (30% vs 8%; p < 0.001) and postoperative blood transfusions (43% vs 29%; p = 0.014) compared with men. Only 66% of women qualified for direct discharge to home compared with 85% of men (p = 0.0003). Twelve-month mortality was 1.3% and 2%, respectively (p > 0.05). Half of the cohort got referred for CR, and 32% of men and 23% of women underwent CR. Twelve-month composite outcomes did not differ by referral to cardiac rehabilitation (odds ratio = 0.77; 95% CI, 0.36–1.64) or engagement with CR (odds ratio = 0.67; 95% CI −0.05 to 0.086), adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and diabetes. Kaplan-Meier analysis found no significant difference in survival between those who did and did not undergo CR. Men experienced increases in metabolic equivalents (38%, P = 0.014), grip strength (11%, P < 0.0001), and sense of physical well-being (40.9%, P < 0.0001), whereas women experienced increases in aerobic exercise duration (15.5%, P = 0.02) and a trend in improved sense for physical well-being (93.3%, P = 0.06). ImplicationsSex differences exist with CR after CABG. Future studies should confirm these findings in larger cohorts and corroborate the effect on endothelial function and other biological markers.

Abstract 87: Comparative Outcomes Of TAVR In African Americans Versus Non-African Americans

Introduction: African Americans (AA) experience more postoperative complications compared to non-African Americans (NAA) after certain procedures. Few studies compare clinical outcomes between AA and NAA post Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR). Our aim is to further explore racial disparities among TAVR patients. Methods: Retrospective analysis of electronic medical records from March 2018-November 2020 of a major academic center and affiliated Veterans Affairs hospital in Chicago, IL identified all TAVR patients. Participants self-identified by race and were stratified into AA and NAA groups. The primary outcome was 3-point composite major adverse cardiac outcomes (MACE) (all cause death, myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident). Secondary outcomes included major differences in comorbidities, creatinine, baseline mean gradient, congestive heart failure (CHF) exacerbations, and hospital admissions. Outcomes were analyzed at 6- and 12-months post TAVR. Results: We included 151 patients in the analysis; 22% female, 65% were non-AA (44.7% white, 16.4% Hispanic, and 3.9% other) and 35% AA. They were 74 +/- 14 years old for the AA and 74 +/- 10 years old for non-AA. At 6 months (AA:15.1% v NAA:8.1%; p=.2) and at 12 months (AA:22.6% v NAA:16.2%; p=.3), there was no difference in MACE between the two populations. At 6 months post TAVR, AA were more likely to have a CHF exacerbation compared to NAA (AA:15.1% v NAA:3.1%; p=.007) despite a similar prevalence of heart failure at baseline, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation and smoking. AA were found to have a higher baseline mean gradient when compared to NAA (AA: 36.2 v NAA:31.9 mmHg; p=.049). Creatinine at time of procedure was higher in AA when compared to NAA (Cr: 2.37 vs. 1.49 mg/dL; p=.015) and AA trended towards higher rates of end stage renal disease compared to NAA (AA:22.6% v NAA:11.1%; p=.059). Conclusion: We observed significant disparities between AA and their NAA counterparts. While both groups had similar rates of composite MACE events post TAVR at 6 and 12 months, AA tend to be a higher risk post-operative population. AA were more likely to have CHF exacerbations and were evaluated for TAVR at a later stage in their disease course.

Abstract 267: Impact Of Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors On Quality-of-life Outcomes Using The Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire: A Meta-analytic Comparison

Abstract: SGLT2i have recently demonstrated efficacy in reducing acute CHF exacerbations, hospitalizations, and major adverse cardiac outcomes. Their efficacy in reducing symptom burden remains unclear. The purpose of this study is to quantify heart failure symptom burden improvement as measured by the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. Methods: A systematic review of MEDLINE and the Clinical Trials Database using PRISMA guidelines was conducted using the search terms SGLT2 inhibitor and heart failure. Studies were included if they measured change from baseline values of KCCQ Total Symptom Score in treatment and control groups. Clinical characteristics of patients and outcomes were aggregated according to the Cochrane Manual. A random effects model using mean differences was utilized. Revman 5.3 was used to aggregate outcomes and statistics. Results: A total of 14 studies with 18,117 patients were included. The studies comprised of 10,996 patients with HFrEF and 7,121 patients had HFpEF. The aggregate score improvement was significant with a mean difference of 1.87 [1.54, 2.20] Test for overall effect: Z = 11.05 (P &lt; 0.00001). Study heterogeneity was also significant (Heterogeneity: Tau 2 = 0.07; Chi 2 = 634.86, df = 13 (P &lt; 0.00001); I 2 = 98%). A subgroup analysis of HFpEF only patients showed a significant improvement: 2.46 [0.75, 4.18] Test for overall effect: Z = 2.82 (P = 0.005). Conclusion: SGLT2i reduce symptom burden with a modest improvement that is statistically significant regardless of ejection fraction. However, long term results are needed to quantify clinically significant symptom reduction.

Abstract 61: Major Adverse Cardiovascular And Cerebrovascular Events Among Homeless Cancer Survivors: A Decade-apart Nationwide Hospitalizations Analysis

Background: Homelessness being one of the independent risks for cardiovascular disease (CVD), we explored the burden of CVD risk factors and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and in-hospital outcomes among homeless cancer survivors in the USA two-decade apart. Methods: We compared the baseline demographic, comorbidities, and inpatient MACCE outcomes (all-cause mortality, cardiac arrest including arrhythmia, and stroke) between 2007 and 2017 using homeless cancer survivors' hospitalizations from National Inpatient Sample datasets. Results: A total of 14973 (median age 59 years, 53.4% male) admissions among homeless cancer survivors were studied (4778 in 2007 &amp; 10195 in 2017, Table 1). Cohort 2017 had younger (median age 57 vs. 71 years), male (59.5% vs. 40.5%), Hispanic (8.0% vs. 5%), non-elective (93.8% vs. 87.4%) and low household income (24.7% vs. 20.8%) (p&lt;0.001) admissions, and had a significantly higher burden of traditional cardiovascular risk factors like smoking, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes with chronic complications, congestive cardiac failure, alcohol abuse, drug abuse and depression compared to 2007 cohort. Univariate incidence of composite MACCE (16.2 vs 19.5%) and all-cause mortality (0.9 vs 1.3%) were significantly lower in 2017 compared to 2007. Multivariate analysis after socio-demographics, admitting hospital-related characteristics and comorbidities did not reveal worsening for MACCE-related hospitalizations (aOR 1.16, 95 CI 0.83-1.62, p=0.381). Conclusion: Homeless cancer survivors tend to be younger in 2017 than in 2007, with higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and hospitalizations related to MACCE. However, they also tend to have improved in-hospital outcomes. Propagating aggressive screening in such survivors may further prevent MACCE-related hospitalizations.

Cardiotoxicity of BTK inhibitors: ibrutinib and beyond

Introduction The development of Bruton’s Tyrosine Kinase (BTK) inhibitors has transformed the treatment of B-cell malignancies and other non-malignant conditions. Management of the unique cardiotoxic profile of these agents requires prompt recognition and a multi-disciplinary approach. Areas Covered The increasing indications and addition of newer agents to clinical practice and emergence of BTK inhibitor-related cardiac adverse events have complicated the management decisions for utilization of this class of therapy. We review the incidence, mechanisms, and management approaches for BTK inhibitor-related atrial fibrillation, hypertension, and ventricular arrhythmias. Expert Opinion The newer BTK inhibitor acalabrutinib represents a new standard of care in front-line chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) given the results of the ELEVATE-RR trial demonstrating comparable efficacy and a more favorable toxicity profile especially with regards to cardiac adverse events as compared to ibrutinib. Often not recognized by clinicians, BTK inhibitor-induced hypertension is common and can be severe, requiring prompt recognition and initiation or adjustment of anti-hypertensive medications to prevent major adverse cardiac outcomes. Novel BTK inhibitors in development are being designed to overcome the patterns of resistance from first-generation agents and to minimize off-target kinase activity, with promising toxicity profiles in early trials.

Grace announces successful start-up of two UNIPOL PP lines at Oriental Energy

Calcified coronary lesions present a unique challenge for patients undergoing percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI). A higher prevalence of calcific lesions is seen in men and older patients, while diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and tobacco use are significant risk factors. Calcific lesions have been associated with an increased risk of stent thrombosis, restenosis, and major adverse cardiac outcomes (MACE). Larger plaque burden and increased lesion complexity, such as bifurcation or chronic total occlusion, are commonly seen with calcific coronary lesions.Coronary calcifications lead to increased procedural complexity with difficulty in lesion preparation, balloon delivery and dilation, and stent delivery and expansion. Given the complexity, stent fracture, under expansion, or malapposition of stents lead to unfavorable outcomes such as thrombosis, myocardial infarction, or restenosis. A favorable result with stent implantation is predicted by final minimal stent area (MSA), larger stent areas lead to improved stent patency, achieved by appropriate modification of plaque morphology before stent implantation. Various interventions, such as specialty balloons and atherectomy, have been developed to overcome calcium burden and maximize MSA, thereby potentially improving PCI outcomes. In this chapter, we will focus on nonatherectomy (cutting, scoring, and lithotripsy) and atherectomy (rotational, orbital, and laser) strategies for calcific lesion modification before PCI.

Long-Term Outcomes in Adult Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension After Percutaneous Closure of Atrial Septal Defects.

Pulmonary hypertension (PH), recently redefined as mean pulmonary arterial pressure >20 mm Hg (PH20), may be observed in patients with atrial septal defects (ASD). We aimed to determine the effect of preprocedural PH20 status on outcomes among patients undergoing ASD closure. Study population was selected from a retrospective registry of adult patients who underwent percutaneous ASD closure from 1998 to 2016 from a single center and had right heart catheterizations during the procedure. The clinical registry was linked to administrative databases to capture short- and long-term outcomes. We included a total of 632 ASD closure patients of whom 359 (56.8%) had PH20. The mean follow-up length was 7.6±4.6 years. Patients with PH20 were older (mean age 56.5 versus 43.1 years, P<0.001) and a higher prevalence of comorbidities including hypertension (54.3% versus 21.6%, P<0.001) and diabetes (18.1% versus 5.9%, P<0.001) than those without PH. In a Cox proportional hazards model after covariate adjustment, patients with PH had a significantly higher risk of developing major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (heart failure, stroke, myocardial infarction, or cardiovascular mortality), with hazards ratio 2.45 (95% CI, 1.4-4.4). When applying the prior, mean pulmonary arterial pressure ≥25 mm Hg (PH25) cutoff, a significantly higher hazard of developing major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events was observed in PH versus non-PH patients. ASD patients with PH undergoing closure suffer from more comorbidities and worse long-term major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events outcomes, compared with patients without PH. The use of the new PH20 definition potentially dilutes the effect of this serious condition on outcomes in this population.