National Institute Of Cardiovascular Diseases Research Articles

Association of Periprocedural Haemoglobin Reduction and Myocardial Injury in Patients with Unstable Angina Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background: Patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention are at risk of different complications such as periprocedural bleeding and acute hemoglobin reduction that can lead to myocardial injury. Blood loss through the catheter during the procedure and through puncture site haematoma causes periprocedural acute haemoglobin drop. Objectives: To find out the association between acute haemoglobin reduction and myocardial injury after PCI in patients with unstable angina. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) for one year of time. A total of 130 patients were enrolled based on inclusion and exclusion criteria during the study period. Haemoglobin and troponin-I were measured before and after PCI within 24 to 48 hours of the procedure. On the basis of post-procedural acute haemoglobin level, the study population was categorized into two groups: Group I patients with normal haemoglobin levels and Group II patients with significant acute haemoglobin reduction (≥ 1 gm/dl). Results: A total of 24 patients developed a periprocedural myocardial injury, among them 17 (70.8%) were in the reduced haemoglobin group and 7 (29.2%) in the normal haemoglobin group. Elevation of troponin I after PCI was higher in group II than in group I patients with a statistically significant difference. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that haemoglobin reduction was an independent predictor of PMI (OR 1.94; 95% CI, 1.241-8.684; p = 0.01). Conclusion: Periprocedural haemoglobin reduction in patients with unstable angina was associated with myocardial injury after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Factors linked with the delayed diagnosis of congenital heart diseases. A single center experience from a tertiary care hospital of Pakistan.

Objective: To note the factors linked with delayed diagnosis of congenital heart diseases (CHDs) among children. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Department of Pediatric Cardiology, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Karachi, Pakistan. Period: September 2022 to February 2023. Material & Methods: We analyzed children aged up to 15 years who presented for the first time with echocardiographic evidence for the diagnosis of CHDs. Socio-demographic data along with clinical information like gender, age, residential status, maternal education status, history of maternal fetal echocardiography and the frequency of delayed diagnosis of CHDs were noted on a specially made proforma. Parent or guardians were asked for possible reasons of delayed diagnosis for CHDs. Results: In a total of 250 children, the mean age was 2.33±3.81 years while 162 (64.8%) children were aged below 2 years. There were 138 (55.2%) boys. Residential status of 159 (63.6%) children was rural while maternal educational status of 99 (39.6%) was illiterate. There were 164 (65.6%) children who were diagnosed to have cyanotic CHDs while 86 (34.4%) had acyanotic CHDs. Frequency of delayed diagnosis was noted among 182 (72.8%) children. In these 182 cases, delayed first consultation was the commonest factor behind delayed diagnosis noted in 78 (42.9%) children while missed diagnosis by the pediatrician was the 2nd most common factors linked with the delayed diagnosis of CHDs as described by 62 (34.1%) parents. Conclusion: Almost 3/4th of the studied children had delayed diagnosis of CHDs while cyanotic CHDs were the most common CHD types. Delayed first consultant and missed diagnosis by the pediatrician were the most common factors linked with delayed diagnosis of CHDs.

Correlation of Friesinger Score of Angiographic Severity of Coronary Artery with or without Hyperuricaemia among Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients

Background: Angiographic severity of coronary artery is essential to correlate with serum uric acid among acute coronary syndrome patients. Objective: The purpose of the present study was to correlate the Friesinger Score of angiographic severity of coronary artery with or without hyperuricaemia among acute coronary syndrome patients. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Cardiology at National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period of December 2011 to November 2012. Patients who were newly diagnosed as acute coronary syndrome during admission undergoing coronary angiography in National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Dhaka during the specified period of time were the study population. Coronary angiography was done within 4 weeks after hospital admission. Study subjects were divided into two groups on the basis of serum uric acid levels. Patients who were newly diagnosed as acute coronary syndrome having normal serum uric acid levels (<7 mg/dl in men & <6 mg/dl in women) were included in group I. Patients who were newly diagnosed as acute coronary syndrome having elevated serum uric acid levels (>7 mg/dl in men & >6mg/dl in women) were included in group II. Results: A total number of 103 patients were recruited for this study who were divided into two groups and 53 patients having normal serum uric acid were considered in group I and 50 patients having hyperuricaemia acid were considered in group II. The mean age of study subjects among group I and group II are 50.45±10.33 years and 52.98±10.559 years respectively. The value of stenosis in Friesinger score in group II (9.30±3.955) was remarkably higher than that of group I (3.77±3.43) and it was statistically highly significant (p=0.001). Here, the vessel score is also markedly higher in group II (2.14±0.83) than that of group-I (0.77±0.75) (p=0.001). The Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) was 0.288 which was significant (p< 0.037). Conclusion: In conclusion it showed that there was a positive linear correlation between Friesinger scores and normal level of serum uric acid. Journal of National Institute of Neurosciences Bangladesh, January 2023;9(1):60-64

IMPACT OF ACTIVE SURVEILLANCE SCREENING OF MRSA ON SURGICAL SITE INFECTION RATES- A PROSPECTIVE INTERVENTIONAL STUDY

Background: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the most common cause of surgical site infections. Different methods are employed to reduce nosocomial spread including application of Isolation precautions, admission screening cultures and MRSA decolonization 3,4,5,6,7. Preoperative MRSA screening in patients undergoing cardiac surgeries can reduce the risk of surgical site infections. To evaluate the significance of preoperative MRSA screening on rates of surgical site infections in cardiac surgery patients Material and Methods: This was a prospective interventional study, conducted at the National Institute of Cardiovascular diseases, Karachi from 1st February 2022- 31st July 2022. Preoperative MRSA screening in patients undergoing cardiac surgeries was performed at the Microbiology Laboratory. Patients identified as colonized were isolated and decolonized with chlorhexidine baths prior to surgeries. Surgical site infections (SSIs) rates were recorded by Infection control nurse through active surveillance for the screening period. SSI rates for a prescreening period of 6 months (August 2021- January 2022) was retrieved through electronic medical records for comparison. Results: Total 359 patients were screened from 1st February 2022- 31st July 2022, out of which 20 were colonized with MRSA. None of the patients who screened positive for MRSA developed SSI. 11 SSIs with MRSA were reported from August 2021- January 2022 and 4 SSIs were reported from February 2022-July 2022 (p value < 0.05). Conclusion: It can be concluded that active MRSA screening and subsequent implementation of decolonization policy would decrease the percentage of SSI in cardiac surgery Keywords: MRSA, Screening, Surgical site infection, Surveillance

Immediate in-hospital outcomes after percutaneous revascularization of acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock.

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a life-threatening complication of acute myocardial infarction with high morbidity and mortality rates. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has been shown to improve outcomes in patients with CS. To investigate the immediate mortality rates in patients with CS undergoing primary PCI and identify mortality predictors. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 305 patients with CS who underwent primary PCI at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Karachi, Pakistan, between January 2018 and December 2022. The primary outcome was immediate mortality, defined as mortality within index hospitalization. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictors of immediate mortality. In a sample of 305 patients with 72.8% male patients and a mean age of 58.1 ± 11.8 years, the immediate mortality rate was found to be 54.8% (167). Multivariable analysis identified Killip class IV at presentation [odds ratio (OR): 2.0; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2-3.4; P = 0.008], Multivessel disease (OR: 3.5; 95%CI: 1.8-6.9; P < 0.001), and high thrombus burden (OR: 2.6; 95%CI: 1.4-4.9; P = 0.003) as independent predictors of immediate mortality. Immediate mortality rate in patients with CS undergoing primary PCI remains high despite advances in treatment strategies. Killip class IV at presentation, multivessel disease, and high thrombus burden (grade ≥ 4) were identified as independent predictors of immediate mortality. These findings underscore the need for aggressive management and close monitoring of patients with CS undergoing primary PCI, particularly in those with these high-risk characteristics.

Apolipoprotein E Polymorphism And Dyslipidemia In Elderly Patients Of Calcific Aortic Stenosis

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of the Apo E polymorphisms on plasma lipid profile and to identify the polymorphism of the apo-E gene as genetic predictor of calcific AS in Pakistani population. Methodology: This was a case control study conducted in Dow University of Health Sciences and National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Karachi. It included total of 100 individuals, 50 echocardiographically identified calcific AS cases and 50 age and gender matched controls. Apo E allele frequencies were computed, lipid profiles were estimated and Apo E gene polymorphism was identified by the techniques of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Result: Apo E 2, 3, and 4 allele frequencies were 16%, 52%, and 32% in calcific AS cases, and 10%, 52%, 28% in controls respectively (p=0.622). Out of 50 cases, 18% presented with mild AS, 22% moderate AS and 60% lied in severe calcific AS. It was observed that levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were higher in Apo E4 allele as compared to other genes in both cases and control. Conclusion: The findings of this study suggested that Apo E4 allele of Apo E gene is an impotent risk factors for dyslipidemia while Apo E4 allele is not associated with calcific AS contemplates distinctive genetic backgrounds of CAD and AS.

Prognostic Significance of Nucleated RBCs in Predicting Mortality Among ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Admitted to the ICU.

Background The nucleated red blood cells (NRBCs) are a readily available hematological parameter with potential for risk stratification for mortality. Therefore, our objective was to assess the predictive significance of NRBCs for ICU mortality among ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients admitted to an ICU. Additionally, we aimed to compare the predictive capacity of NRBCs with that of the acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II score and the sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score. Methodology This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the ICU of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) in Karachi, Pakistan, from the 1st of February to the 30th of June, 2023. We included adult patients (≥18 years) diagnosed with STEMI who were subsequently admitted to the ICU. NRBCs were assessed in all patients over up to five days at 24-hour intervals, and the highest NRBC levels were used for the final analysis. Furthermore, the APACHE II score and the SOFA score were also documented. Patients were monitored throughout their ICU stay, and any adverse events or complications, such as re-intubation, bleeding necessitating transfusion, requirement for renal replacement therapy, arrhythmias, re-infarction, and mortality, were recorded. Results This study included 151 patients, of whom 97 (64.2%) were male, with an average age of 61.1 ± 10.7 years. Patients with positive NRBCs had higher mean SOFA scores (7.4 ± 2.9 vs. 5.4 ± 2.6; p < 0.001) and APACHE II scores (14.6 ± 6.3 vs. 12.6 ± 5.5; p = 0.037) compared to those with negative NRBCs. The culprit vessel showed greater mean stenosis (%) in patients with positive NRBCs (98.8 ± 3.0% vs. 96.8 ± 5.7%; p = 0.004). Post-procedure thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow grade III was lower in patients with positive NRBCs (77.8% vs. 91.8% for positive vs. negative NRBCs, respectively). Moreover, patients with positive NRBCs experienced significantly higher mortality rates (63% vs. 8.2%; p < 0.001), a higher occurrence of arrhythmias (35.2% vs. 19.6%; p = 0.034), and an increased requirement for vasopressors/inotropic support (96.3% vs. 71.1%; p < 0.001) compared to those with negative NRBCs. NRBCs demonstrated superior discriminatory ability compared to the SOFA and APACHE II scores, with an area under the curve of 0.818 (95% CI: 0.738-0.899) for NRBCs, 0.774 (95% CI: 0.692-0.857) for SOFA, and 0.707 (95% CI: 0.613-0.801) for APACHE II. Positive NRBCs exhibited a sensitivity of 81.0% and a specificity of 81.7% in predicting ICU mortality. Conclusion In conclusion, positive NRBCs emerge as a robust and reliable prognostic indicator, strongly associated with an elevated risk of ICU mortality in STEMI patients. Moreover, the predictive power of positive NRBCs surpasses that of both SOFA and APACHE II scoring systems.

Comparison of Early Outcome of Off-pump and Conventional Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery in Patients with Left Main Coronary Artery Disease with Left Ventricular Dysfunction

Left Main (LM) coronary artery disease and left ventricular dysfunction both are important predictors of in-hospital mortality. To avoid the harmful effects of cardio pulmonary bypass (CPB), many cardiac surgeons are using Offpump Coronary Artery Bypass (OPCAB) as an effective alternative to conventional CABG (CCAB) even in these sub-groups of patients. This study performed in the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) evaluated the early outcomes of OPCAB in terms of mortality and major post-operative morbidities and compared them with that of CCAB in patients with left main coronary artery diseases with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. Total 120 patients with left main coronary artery disease with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (&lt;_40%) were allocated into two groups: a) 60 patients who underwent OPCAB and b) another 60 patients who underwent conventional CABG between January 2012 and December 2017. All risk factors and co-morbidities were homogenously distributed between the two groups. Majority of the patients had triple vessel disease. Nearly three-quarters (73.3%) of patients in OPCAB group and 80% in CCAB group received 3 grafts (p=0.470). The mean total operative time (p&lt; 0.001), intubation times (p&lt;0.001), blood losses (p &lt; 0.001); requirements for blood and blood products (p &lt; 0.0010), intensive care unit stays (p&lt;0.001) and hospital stays (p&lt; 0.001) were all significantly lower in the OPCAB group. OPCAB is a safe and effective operative revascularization procedure for patients with left main coronary artery disease with left ventricular dysfunction and is associated with reduced morbidity.&#x0D; Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Med. Coll. J. 2022;1(1):04-08

Correlation of TIMI Risk Score and GRACE Risk Score with Lesion of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Non-ST Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome

Objective: To compare the correlation of “thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI)” and “Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE)” risk score with lesion of coronary artery disease in patients with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Place and Duration: The Department of adult cardiology, “National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD)”, Karachi, Pakistan, from January 2021 to July 2021. Methodology: Demographics, weight, height, risk factors along with the required information needed for TIMI and GRACE score were obtained at the time of presentation in emergency department as per the scoring criteria. SYNTAX score was calculated after performing conventional angiography of the patients, using SYNTAX.com calculator. Results: In a total of 104 patients, the mean age was 57.21±12.22 years while 56 (53.8%) patients were male. Hypercholesterolemia was found in 33 (31.7%) patients. Mean score of TIMI was calculated as 4.680±2.064 while SYNTAX score was calculated as 26.45±12.94 and the correlation between TIMI risk score and SYNTAX score was noted as (r=0.109) and P value was found to be non-significant i.e. (P=0.270). Mean score of GRACE was noted as 135.38±90.88 while SYNTAX score was noted as 26.45±12.94 and the correlation between GRACE risk score and SYNTAX score was documented as (r=0.179) and P value was found to be non-significant i.e. (P=0.068). Practical Implications: Both TIMI and GRACE risk scoring systems showed weak correlations with SYNTAX scores. Conclusion: There is a weak correlation between TIMI risk score and SYNTAX score as well as GRACE risk score and SYNTAX score. Keywords: Acute coronary syndrome, coronary artery disease, GRACE score, myocardial infarction, thrombolysis.

In-Hospital Mortality in Hyponatremia Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure at National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease (N.I.C.V.D) Karachi

Heart failure is a clinical syndrome that appears when the heart either is unable to sustain a sufficient cardiac output or can only do so at the cost of an increased filling pressure. Hyponatremia is poor prognostic sign. Objective: To determine the frequency of in-hospital mortality in hyponatremic patients hospitalized for heart failure at National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease (N.I.C.V.D) Karachi. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted at Department of Cardiology, NICVD, Karachi, Pakistan from 1st March 2018 to 31st August 2018. All patient who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were enrolled and consent was taken. All the patients were managed according to guidelines and followed during hospital stay for in-hospital mortality. Data were collected in proforma. Results: The in-hospital mortality was 13(9.09%). Lower admission serum sodium was associated with high mortality. Conclusions: Patients hospitalized with heart failure frequently had hyponatremia, which was linked to greater in-hospital mortality. Severe hyponatremic patients have worse clinical outcomes

Fluoroscopy versus Transthoracic Echocardiography for Detection of Mitral Valve Calcification in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Mitral Balloon Valvuloplasty

Objectives: Rheumatic heart disease remains a significant problem in developing countries, with mitral stenosis (MS) being a frequent manifestation. The objective of this study was to compare transthoracic echocardiographic (TTE) findings of mitral valve calcification with fluoroscopy. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the department of adult cardiology, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) Karachi. All patients were candidates for percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty (PMBV), aged between 15 to 65 years of either gender. Patients who underwent TTE were subjected to fluoroscopy before PMBV. The Kappa coefficient was calculated to assess the agreement between the two modalities. An appropriate t-test or Mann-Whitney U test was applied, and a p-value ≤ 0.05 was taken as the criterion for statistical significance. Results: A total of 160 patients were included in this study with a mean age of 34.01± 12.32 years, 119 (74.4%) were between 18 to 40 years of age, and 108 (67.5%) were female. Calcification was observed in 40.6% (65) on echocardiography and 50.6% (81) of the patients on fluoroscopy. A substantial agreement was observed between the two modalities with a Kappa coefficient of 0.75 for the detection of calcification. Conclusion: No significant difference was observed in the detection of calcification on echocardiography and fluoroscopy, along with a substantial agreement between the two modalities for the detection of calcification. Echocardiography can be a less invasive alternative to fluoroscopy for the detection of calcification before PMBV.

Five-Year Experience of Second-Generation Cryoballoon Ablation for Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation from a Tertiary Cardiac Care Center of Pakistan: A Retrospective Chart Review

Objectives: The study aimed at assessing the outcome of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using second-generation cryoballoon, Arctic Front Advance, Medtronic (CB-Adv) as a rhythm control strategy for drug-resistant paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) in a cardiac tertiary care center of Pakistan. Methodology: Fifty patients had PVI with CB-Adv for symptomatic drug-resistant PAF at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Karachi, Pakistan, during 2017-2022. Patients were followed-up in the clinic on the 1st, 3rd, and 6th month after the ablation. Twenty-four hours of Holter monitoring of electrocardiogram was obtained on each visit. We conducted a retrospective chart review after approval from the ethical review committee. We collected all the patients' demographic and clinical data, procedural results, and reports of Holter monitoring. The primary outcome was successful PVI and freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmia (Ata) on a 6-month follow-up. Results: We enrolled all 50 patients (34 male, 68%; mean age 55.14 ± 7.94 years) treated with PVI using CB-Adv. The mean duration of symptoms was 30.28 ± 13.48 months. PVI with CB-Adv was found to be curative in 49 patients (98%). Following the procedure, pericardial effusion was found in one patient (2%), whereas one patient (2%) had a retroperitoneal hematoma. On a six-month follow-up, only one patient (2%) had a recurrence of Ata, which was PAF. Conclusion: Our experience of PVI with CB-Adv has shown a high success rate of the procedure for rhythm control in patients who have PAF, which is resistant to antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs).

Relationship Between Transthoracic Echocardiography and Transesophageal Echocardiography in the Anatomic and Hemodynamic Assessment of Secundum Atrial Septal Defects in Children and Adults

Objective: To determine the relationship between transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography in the anatomic and hemodynamic assessment of secundum atrial septal defects in children and adults.&#x0D; Study Design: Cross-sectional study.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: Department of Paediatric Cardiology, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Karachi Pakistan, from Jul 2020 to Jun 2021.&#x0D; Methodology: Seventy-seven patients above three years of age with secundum atrial septal defects were included. Linear regression was used to determine any statistically significant difference between transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography approaches.&#x0D; Results: Of 77 patients, there were 37(48.1%) male and 40(51.9%) female. No significant difference was noted in terms of any of the clinical parameters during transthoracic echocardiography and transesophageal echocardiography. As per transthoracic echocardiography, 35(45.5%) were noted to be deviceable, while in transesophageal echocardiography, 36(46.8%) patients were found to be deviceable (p=0.872). No emergency exploration or deaths occurred. Linear regression showed no statistically significant difference between transthoracic echocardiogram and transesophageal echocardiography findings in terms of atrial septal defects size (p=0.226), total septal length (p=0.930), RV systolic pressure (p=0.440), RV functions and TAPSE (0.748) except LV ejection fraction function findings (p&lt;0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: Anatomic and hemodynamic assessment of secundum atrial septal defects in children and adults correlated well with transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography.

Propofol or Midazolam for sedation and early extubation following coronary artery bypass graft surgery

Objective: to evaluate the efficacy of Midazolam and Propofol for postoperative sedation and early extubation following cardiac surgery. Methodology: Randomized control trial was conducted cardiac anesthesia department of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases in one year duration of 1st February 2018 to 30th January 2019. Study was conducted on ASA 3 who was selected for coronary artery bypass graft surgery. After shifting in ICU patients were divided in two groups by lottery method and study drugs propofol and midazolam were started. Both infusions were terminated after four hours and patients were assessed for extubation. Hemodynamic parameters arterial blood gases and respiratory function was assessed and recorded. Results: The mean time to awakening, time to extubation in midazolam group was 94.11±4.36 minutes, 94.47±6.11 minutes respectively and in propofol group it was 96.58±4.31 minutes, 91.91±3.94 minutes respectively. Difference was statistically significant. Conclusion: Results of our study reveal that there was no difference in both drugs regarding sedation and extubation time; both drugs are safe, effective and useful in patients of coronary artery bypass graft surgery.

A Comparative Study of Post-Operative Outcomes for Off-Pump and On-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting

Introduction: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a common surgical procedure for the management of coronary artery disease. Off-pump (OPCAB) and on-pump (ONCAB) CABG have been compared in various studies, but limited data exists for the Bangladeshi population. The present study was conducted to shed further light on the topic relative to the Bangladeshi demographic. Methods: This retrospective observational study conducted at the Department of Cardiac Surgery, National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Dhaka, Bangladesh, over a 1.5-year period from April 2019 to September 2020 compared the outcomes of OPCAB and ONCAB in a Bangladeshi population, analyzing the demographic and clinical characteristics, operative characteristics, early postoperative outcomes, and recovery parameters of 34 patients undergoing either OPCAB (n=17) or ONCAB (n=17). Result: The two groups were well-matched in terms of demographic and clinical characteristics, with no significant differences in age, gender, BMI, or comorbidities. The OPCAB group had a significantly shorter total operative time (180.4 ± 26.8 min vs. 195.3 ± 31.2 min, P &lt; 0.05). Early postoperative outcomes were similar between the two groups (P &gt; 0.05 for all comparisons), while the OPCAB group had a significantly shorter hospital stay (7.8 ± 1.8 days vs. 9.2 ± 2.1 days, P &lt; 0.05), mechanical ventilation time (9.1 ± 3.8 hours vs. 12.6 ± 4.5 hours, P &lt; 0.05), and time to ambulation (3.8 ± 0.9 days vs. 4.5 ± 1.0 days, P &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: Our study suggests that OPCAB may be a viable alternative to ONCAB for selected patients in the Bangladeshi population, offering potential benefits in terms of reduced recovery times and resource utilization. Further large-scale, randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings and assess the long-term outcomes and cost-effectiveness of OPCAB compared to ONCAB.

Association of Preoperative Hba1c Level with Incidence of New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation during Early Postoperative Period after On-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery in Diabetic Patients

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common complication following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery, particularly in diabetic patients. Elevated preoperative HbA1c levels have been suggested as a potential risk factor for postoperative AF; however, the association remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between preoperative HbA1c levels and the incidence of new-onset atrial fibrillation during the early postoperative period in diabetic patients undergoing on-pump CABG surgery in Bangladesh. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Cardiac Surgery, National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Dhaka, Bangladesh. A total of 60 diabetic patients undergoing on-pump CABG were included and divided into two groups: Group-1 (HbA1c &lt;7%, n=30) and Group-2 (HbA1c ≥7%, n=30). Data were collected using a preformed data collection sheet, and statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square test, Fisher's test, and student's t-test. Result: In this study, Group-1 (HbA1c &lt;7%) consisted of 30 patients, while Group-2 (HbA1c ≥7%) also comprised 30 patients. The mean age of Group-1 was 58.50±6.80 years, and that of Group-2 was 50.53±6.01 years (p &lt; 0.001). The distribution of preoperative variables such as single, double, and triple vessel disease, hypertension, history of antiarrhythmic drug use, and NYHA class III and IV showed no significant differences between the groups (p &gt; 0.05). However, preoperative HbA1c levels were significantly different between the two groups (6.11±0.44 in Group-1 vs. 7.98±0.55 in Group-2, p &lt; 0.001). The incidence of new-onset atrial fibrillation during the early postoperative period was significantly higher in Group-2 (63.33%) than in Group-1 (30.00%, p &lt; 0.05). A significant association was also observed between postoperative atrial fibrillation and hypertension (p &lt; 0.05). Patients in Group-2 experienced a higher rate of postoperative complications, .......

Evaluating Types of TAPVR on Echocardiography and CT Angiography in Paediatric Patients Admitted in Tertiary Care Hospital: A Comparative Study

Objective: To evaluate the types of TAPVR on Echocardiography and CT Angiography in Paediatric Patients Study design: A comparative study Place and Duration: Pediatric cardiology department and CT Angiography department of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) Karachi from January 2019 to December 2021 Methodology: Patients who have TAPVR confirmed by CT angiography and detected by echocardiography were included in the research. Cases having anomalies in the systemic veins were eliminated. Demographic variables (age, gender, weight, etc.), echocardiographic results (such as type of TAPVR, obstructive and non-obstructive), and CT angiography findings were collected for the study using a preset structured proforma. We evaluated the diagnostic disparity between the two modalities. Results: In the present study there were 107 patients, 67.3% were male gender, 56.1% with age less than 6 months, the median age was 6 months, median weight was 4.5 kg. On echocardiography, there were 83.2% non-obstructive, 47.7% supracardiac and 36.4% cardiac TAPVR. On CT angiography, there were 66.4% were non-obstructive, 53.3% supracardiac and 23.4% cardiac TAPVR. Of the associated cardiac diseases, in common 86.9% were found with atrial septal defect, 13.1% were persistent left superior vena cava, 12.1% were patent ductus arteriosus, 8.4% were a ventricular septal defect, 6.5% were of pulmonary atresia, and 3.7% were complete endocardial cushion defect. Conclusion: As compared to echocardiography, CT angiography is more reliable for the detection of obstructive and mixed types of TAPVR. Detection of the supracardiac type of TAPVR is also almost the same as on echocardiography and CT angiography. As compared to CT angiography, echocardiography over diagnoses the non-obstructive type of TAPVR. CT angiogram is also useful in detecting other associated lesions such as heterotaxy, abnormal coronaries, presence of bilateral superior vena cava and coronary sinus. Keywords: TAVPR, echocardiography, CT angiography, cardiac disorders

Efficacy of Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) Performed Through a Transradial Approach in Patients with ST- Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) at a Tertiary Care Cardiac Center

Objective of Study: The study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes, safety, and efficacy of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) performed through a transradial approach in patients with ST- Segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) at a tertiary care cardiac center. Place of Study: The study was conducted at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Karachi, Pakistan Duration of Study: The study was conducted over a period of six months, from April, 2022 to September, 2022. Methods: A total of 250 consecutive patients who underwent primary PCI through a transradial approach were included in the study. Demographic, clinical, procedural, and angiographic data were collected. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), including death, myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularization, and stroke at 30 days and six months' post-procedure. Secondary outcomes included procedural success, access site complications, and door-to-balloon time. Results: The mean age of participants was 58.7 ± 10.2 years, with 72.8% being male. The procedural success rate was 96.4%. The incidence of MACE at 30 days and six months was 5.6% and 8.8%, respectively. Access site complications were observed in 2.8% of patients, and the mean door-to-balloon time was 81.3 ± 25.6 minutes. Multivariate analysis identified diabetes mellitus and triple-vessel disease as independent predictors of MACE. Conclusion: Primary PCI through a transradial approach at a tertiary care cardiac center in Karachi, Pakistan, demonstrated high procedural success rates, favorable clinical outcomes, and a low incidence of access site complications. This approach may be considered a safe and effective treatment option for patients with acute coronary syndromes. Keywords: primary percutaneous coronary intervention, transradial approach, ST- segment elevation myocardial infarction, major adverse cardiovascular events, tertiary care cardiac center, access site complications, door-to-balloon time

Association of Serum Vit D level with in-Hospital Outcome in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background: Low Vitamin D (Vit D) level is associated with disease severity amongst critical acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients. This leads to the hypothesis that Vit D plays a role in the emergence of cardiac risk factors, contributing to worsening AMI patients' short- and long-term prognoses. Therefore, there is still unclear data showing the potential impact of Vit D insufficiency or deficiency on the morbidity and mortality of AMI patients. So far, there has been no research conducted in Pakistan examining whether or not Vit D status are association to the outcome of hospitalization for coronary artery disease. Objective: The objective of the study is to examine the relationship between Vit D status on hospital admission and subsequent mortality and morbidity among patients with acute myocardial infarction. Study Design: Cross sectional observational study Study Setting: This study was conducted in the department of Interventional Cardiology, National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Karachi from Ist August 2022 to 31st January 2023. Methodology: Total 250 subjects were enrolled in the study and divided in to two groups. Group A with normal Vit D (30ng/ml or above) and Group B included lower Vit D level than 30ng/ml, all patients were suffering from AMI. Baseline demographic characteristics, including age, and gender (male/female), was recorded. The patients were tested for Vit D status and distributed in their respective groups. The history, complications, and clinical data were included. The stay in the hospital and any adverse outcomes that appeared during the stay were also recorded. The clinical results include HDL, TG, and troponin I of every patient were noted for the clinical correlation of AMI patients with adequate and deficiency of Vit D level. All the data was collected in the form of a questionnaire. The statistical analysis was done by using SPSS version 20. Results: Participants' mean ages were 53.8 and 5.9 years old. Group A (patients with low Vit D status) averaged 59.6 years of age, whereas Group B (58.9 years) had normal Vit D status. The analysis showed a statistically non- significant (p&gt;0.05) difference in average age between the groups. There were 250 patients, with male 43.6% and female 56.4%. Men (63.2%) and women (36.8%) were in Group A. There were 71.4% males and 28.6% females in Group B. We found out the 137(60.6%) significant adverse hospital outcomes (p&lt;0.001) in Group B and had a more significant proportion of patients with diabetes mellitus and who had smoked (p = 0.002 and 0.001, respectively). In a multivariate logistic regression smoking, diabetes, Troponin I and low vitamin showed the significant risk association (p&lt;0.001). Practical Implication: There is still a lack of conclusive evidence on the relationship between vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency and the morbidity and mortality of AMI patients. Until far, there has been no research in Pakistan linking serum vitamin D levels to in-hospital outcomes for patients suffering from acute myocardial infarction. Conclusion: The research shows an association between low Vit D status, adverse outcomes, and clinical parameters after AMI. A low blood Vit D level is independently associated to an increased risk of developing severe clinical outcomes during hospitalization, including death after an AMI. Keyword: Vit D, AMI, Vit D deficiency, low Vit D, Cardiovascular disease

Neurological consequences and short–term outcome of children with diagnosis of cyanotic congenital heart diseases at a Tertiary Care Cardiac Setup of Pakistan: A single center study.

Objective: To determine the neurological consequences and short–term outcome of children with diagnosis of cyanotic congenital heart diseases (CHDs) at a tertiary care cardiac setup of Pakistan. Study Design: Single Center Observational Cohort study. Setting: Department of Pediatric Cardiology, National Institute of Cardiovascular Disease (NICVD), Karachi, Pakistan. Period: November 2021 to October 2022. Material &amp; Methods: A total of 80 children of both genders, aged between 1 month to 12 years with known cyanotic CHD as per 2D transthoracic echocardiography were admitted in Pediatric Cardiology Department of NICVD, Karachi and were considered. At the time of enrollment, demographic characteristics along with presenting complaints were noted. Necessary baseline laboratory and radiological investigations were ordered and clinical neurological examination was done. Children were discharged and short term outcomes were labeled after 3 months follow up. Results: In a total of 80 children with cyanotic CHDs, most common underlying diagnosis was tetralogy of fallot, found in 41 (51.3%) children. The CT brain revealed ischemic infarct, brain abscess and gross oedema as the most frequent observations revealed in 47 (58.8%), 40 (50.0%) and 37 (46.3%) children. Surgical management of underlying neurological abnormality was advised in 23 (28.8%) children. After 3 months follow-up, complete recovery was observed among 43 (53.8%) children. CT findings at the time of enrollment as haemorrhagic infarct (p&lt;0.001), brain abscess (p=0.001) and atrophic changes (p=0.032) were significantly associated with incomplete recovery. Surgery as a mode of treatment for the underlying neurological disease was associated with good recovery outcomes (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: Most common underlying diagnosis among children with cyanotic CHDs was tetralogy of fallot. CT findings at the time of enrollment as haemorrhagic infarct, brain abscess and atrophic changes, as well as hypotonia, down going plantars and developmental delay at the time of presentation were significantly linked with incomplete recovery.