Percutaneous Coronary Intervention For Acute Coronary Syndrome Research Articles

Complex versus non-complex, should we adjust the antiplatelet strategy to the type of percutaneous coronary intervention? Results from a real world PCI population

Abstract Background/introduction Personalized dual antiplatelet treatment (DAPT) using risk stratification is key to minimize bleeding- and ischemic events after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Known ischemic risk factors include complex procedures which are integrated in the recommendation for extended DAPT in patients with additional ischemic risk factors. Purpose We aimed to provide insight whether a complex PCI (CPCI) should be regarded as an individual risk factor, regardless of other risk factors, to adjust the antiplatelet strategy. Also, we determined the effect of DAPT duration and choice of P2Y12 inhibitor on outcomes. Methods We included patients from the South East (Zuid Oost) Netherlands Heart Registry (ZON-HR) and excluded patients using oral anticoagulants. This PCI registry prospectively collects baseline-, procedural- and follow-up data including medication use and the intended DAPT duration. Patients were stratified to non-CPCI or CPCI comprising of bifurcation lesions with two stents, venagraft PCI, chronic total occlusion (CTO) or ≥ 60mm stent. Analyses were conducted using Cox regression analysis. Multivariate analysis was performed to adjust for risk factors and baseline differences. Results We included 3691 patients (842 CPCI). Table 1 demonstrates the baseline characteristics and DAPT strategy. CPCI was more often required in patients with a high ischemic risk profile based on the extensiveness of atherosclerosis and comorbidities. Non-CPCI patients more often underwent PCI for acute coronary syndrome. Outcomes are presented in table 2. Compared to non-CPCI, CPCI increased the risk of major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE) in the second half of the year as opposed to bleeding events, which more often occurred in the first months after CPCI, driven by access site bleedings (73% in CPCI versus 56% in non-CPCI, p=0.01). All-cause mortality was higher during the overall follow-up period after a CPCI compared to non-CPCI. These findings remain significant when corrected for additional risk factors in both groups. In patients with CPCI, treatment with ticagrelor or prasugrel strongly reduced MACCE between 6-12 months when compared to clopidogrel (multivariate HR: 0.28, 95% CI: 0.08-0.98), but did not influence bleeding events or all-cause mortality. No effect of extended DAPT was observed. Conclusions A CPCI is an important ischemic risk factor that could be used for risk stratification to guide antiplatelet strategy. Treatment with ticagrelor or prasugrel strongly diminished the risk of MACCE without increasing the bleeding risk in patients with a CPCI. As the risk of MACCE increases between 6-12 months after PCI while the risk of bleeding events diminishes in this period, extended DAPT from 6 to 12 months could also be considered to provide extended protection.Table 1.Table 2

Impact of neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio on clinical outcomes in patients with acute or chronic coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

Abstract Background Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has recently emerged as an inflammatory biomarker associated with atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. However, its role in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains unclear. Purpose We aimed to evaluate the clinical impact of baseline NLR in patients undergoing PCI for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and chronic coronary syndrome (CCS). Methods We retrospectively evaluated all consecutive patients undergoing PCI between 2012-2022 in a large tertiary US hospital. We excluded patients for whom NLR was not available and those who were deemed to have active hematological or infective diseases, including patients presenting with extremely low or high lymphocyte and neutrophil counts or with hs-CRP above 10 mg/L. Quartiles of NLR were derived in the overall population and patients were stratified according to clinical presentation. Within each group, we estimated the risk of 12-month adverse events using the lowest NLR quartile as reference. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as the composite of all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), or stroke. Secondary endpoints were MACE individual components and any periprocedural or post-discharge clinically relevant bleeding. Results A total of 7,201 patients were included in the analysis; of these 3,975 (55.2%) had ACS and 3,226 (44.8%) CCS. Patients in the 4th quartile (NLR > 5.0) were more frequently male, older, and presented more often with chronic kidney disease and complex coronary artery disease. Smoking, diabetes and history of CAD, as well as triglycerides, LDL, non-HDL and total cholesterol levels were lower in the 4th NLR quartile. In patients presenting with CCS, the risk of MACE, all-cause death, MI was similar across NLR quartiles, while the risk of bleeding increased stepwise (Figure 1). In patients presenting with ACS, the 4th NLR quartile had the highest adjusted risk of MACE (HRadj 1.82, 95% CI 1.25-2.67; P=0.002), all cause death (HRadj 2.56, 95% CI 1.41-4.66; P<0.001), and bleeding (HRadj 1.82 95% CI 1.25-2.63, P<0.001) at 1 year, as compared to the lowest quartile (Table 1). Conclusions Among patients undergoing PCI, elevated NLR is strongly associated with risk of MACE and all-cause mortality in patients presenting with ACS but not in those with CCS. Conversely, the risk of bleeding was augmented with higher NLR in both ACS and CCS patients undergoing PCI. In this setting, NLR may inform risk stratification at the time of PCI.

Clinical and peri procedural outcomes using reduced dose prasugrel vs standard dose ticagrelor in elderly patients of acute coronary syndrome undergoing PCI

Abstract Introduction The novel antiplatelet agent prasugrel is generally not indicated in elderly(>75-years) patients in standard dose(60 mg loading and 10 mg maintenance) however, there is a scarce data on safety and efficacy of reduced dose prasugrel(30 mg loading and 5 mg maintenance dose) among elderly patients undergoing elective PCI. Some previous studies have raised concerns regarding the differences in pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic responses to prasugrel in asian ethnicities. The efficacy and safety of reduced dose prasugrel in elderly patients has not been investigated. Therefore, in this study we have compared the efficacy and safety of a reduced dose prasugrel with standard dose ticagrelor in elderly Indian patients undergoing elective PCI for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Purpose To study the periprocedural and intermediate term clinical outcomes using reduced dose prasugrel versus standard dose ticagrelor in elderly Indian patients of acute coronary syndrome undergoing PCI. Methods This was a single centre, randomised, prospective cohort study. Based on the previous reference studies, at 95% level of significance and 80% of power, the sample size was calculated as 73 in each group. Study was conducted from May 2021 to October 2022 (18 months). Patients >75 years of age with ST-segment–elevation (STE) or Non ST elevation (NSTE) ACS treated with PCI were included. The study was approved by the institutional ethics review board. Participants were assigned to receive a standard dose of ticagrelor (180 mg loading followed by 90 mg twice daily, n=73) or a reduced dose prasugrel (30 mg loading followed by 5 mg once daily, n=73). The primary efficacy end point of the study was a composite of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) including cardiovascular mortality , non fatal MI and stroke. The secondary safety end points were major and minor bleeding events. Patients were followed up at 15 days, 3 months and 6 months. Results The baseline clinical and demographic characteristics were comparable in the both groups. The composite of primary efficacy end points at 6 months occurred significantly more in ticagrelor group vs reduced dose prasugrel group(13.7% vs 4.1% P value=0.05) and composite of secondary safety end point were comparable in both the groups(21.9% vs 16.4% respectively, p=0.44). Dyspnoea was seen more frequently in standard dose ticagrelor group as compared to reduced dose prasugrel group (15.1% vs. 6.8% respectively, p value=0.133). Conclusion The results of our study indicate that the reduced dose prasugrel is safe in elderly patients, has similar bleeding events as compared to standard dose ticagrelor group and is better tolerated. The reduced dose prasugrel is significantly more efficacious as compared to standard dose ticagrelor in elderly patients in terms of reduced MACE events. Although large scale randomized studies may be warranted in such populations to draw a broader conclusion.Baseline characteristicsEnd results

Relationship between serum albumin level and hospitalization duration following percutaneous coronary intervention for acute coronary syndrome

Low serum albumin levels increase coronary morbidity, mortality, and postoperative cardiovascular risk. Therefore, this study investigated the relationship between these levels and the length of hospital stay in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndrome. A total of 350 patients were divided into quartiles according to serum albumin levels. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify factors associated with the length of hospital stay. A non-linear regression analysis of serum albumin and length of hospital stay was also performed. The results of the multifactorial analysis revealed low serum albumin levels as an independent predictor of longer hospital stay, even in the fully adjusted model. In the segmented linear regression model, serum albumin level showed a U-shaped relationship with the length of hospital stay. In conclusion, low serum albumin level was an independent predictor of longer hospital stay in patients undergoing PCI for acute coronary syndrome, with shorter stays observed for increasing serum albumin levels. Low serum albumin can be used to identify patients who require longer hospitalization and may need additional nutritional support or interventions to improve their prognosis.

Dual anti-platelet therapy with colchicine after PCI for acute coronary syndrome: A literature review

Colchicine, one of the oldest medications still in use, is a relatively inexpensive and well-tolerated agent with a documented role in a range of inflammatory diseases, such as gout, Behchet’s disease and pericarditis. In recent years, different clinical trials also tested colchicine in the management of cardiovascular conditions and demonstrated favorable results. The aim of this literature review is to evaluate the prospective use of colchicine instead of aspirin as double-antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary interventions in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

Association of serum cystatin C level and major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with percutaneous coronary intervention.

Recurrent acute myocardial infarction requiring unplanned percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is one of the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) after PCI. There is a continuing controversy about the association between serum cystatin C, a biomarker for the evaluation of renal function, and the prognosis of ACS patients following PCI. The retrospective study evaluated the association between serum cystatin C level and MACE in ACS patients after PCI. Data were retrieved for 330 patients with ACS for primary PCI in a single center. Serum cystatin C levels were measured before PCI. All patients underwent regular follow-ups after PCI, and the studied endpoint was MACE, defined as the need for a repeat revascularization in the heart. The predictive value of serum cystatin C for MACE was analyzed using univariate and multivariate analysis. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was applied to evaluate the dose-response relationship between serum cystatin C level and MACE in ACS patients following PCI. After a median follow-up of 63 months (range, 1-148 months), 121 of the 330 patients experienced MACE. Compared to patients who did not have MACE, patients who had MACE showed a significant decrease in serum cystatin C levels (0.99±0.32 vs. 1.15±0.78 mg/L, P=0.03). In multivariate regression analysis, serum cystatin C level was an independent risk factor for MACE. According to the serum cystatin C level, patients were divided into 4 categories, Cox regression analysis illustrated that the second quartile of serum cystatin C level indicated an increased risk of MACE in patients with PCI for primary ACS compared to the highest quartile [Q2: adjusted hazard ratio (HR) =2.109; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.193-3.727; P=0.01]. RCS analysis showed a significant U-shaped dose-response relationship between cystatin C level and MACE in patients with PCI for ACS (P for non-linearity =0.004). These results indicated an association between serum cystatin C level and post-PCI MACE in ACS patients.

Cohort profile: the European Unified Registries On Heart Care Evaluation and Randomized Trials (EuroHeart)-acute coronary syndrome and percutaneous coronary intervention.

The European Unified Registries On Heart Care Evaluation and Randomized Trials (EuroHeart) aims to improve the quality of care and clinical outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease. The collaboration of acute coronary syndrome/percutaneous coronary intervention (ACS/PCI) registries is operational in seven vanguard European Society of Cardiology member countries. Adults admitted to hospitals with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) are included, and individual patient-level data collected and aligned according to the internationally agreed EuroHeart data standards for ACS/PCI. The registries provide up to 155 variables spanning patient demographics and clinical characteristics, in-hospital care, in-hospital outcomes, and discharge medications. After performing statistical analyses on patient data, participating countries transfer aggregated data to EuroHeart for international reporting. Between 1st January 2022 and 31st December 2022, 40021 admissions (STEMI 46.7%, NSTEMI 53.3%) were recorded from 192 hospitals in the seven vanguard countries: Estonia, Hungary, Iceland, Portugal, Romania, Singapore, and Sweden. The mean age for the cohort was 67.9 (standard deviation 12.6) years, and it included 12628 (31.6%) women. The EuroHeart collaboration of ACS/PCI registries prospectively collects and analyses individual data for ACS and PCI at a national level, after which aggregated results are transferred to the EuroHeart Data Science Centre. The collaboration will expand to other countries and provide continuous insights into the provision of clinical care and outcomes for patients with ACS and undergoing PCI. It will serve as a unique international platform for quality improvement, observational research, and registry-based clinical trials.

No-Reflow Prediction in Acute Coronary Syndrome During Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: The NORPACS Risk Score.

Suboptimal coronary reperfusion (no reflow) is common in acute coronary syndrome percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and is associated with poor outcomes. We aimed to develop and externally validate a clinical risk score for angiographic no reflow for use following angiography and before PCI. We developed and externally validated a logistic regression model for prediction of no reflow among adult patients undergoing PCI for acute coronary syndrome using data from the Melbourne Interventional Group PCI registry (2005-2020; development cohort) and the British Cardiovascular Interventional Society PCI registry (2006-2020; external validation cohort). A total of 30 561 patients (mean age, 64.1 years; 24% women) were included in the Melbourne Interventional Group development cohort and 440 256 patients (mean age, 64.9 years; 27% women) in the British Cardiovascular Interventional Society external validation cohort. The primary outcome (no reflow) occurred in 4.1% (1249 patients) and 9.4% (41 222 patients) of the development and validation cohorts, respectively. From 33 candidate predictor variables, 6 final variables were selected by an adaptive least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression model for inclusion (cardiogenic shock, ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction with symptom onset >195 minutes pre-PCI, estimated stent length ≥20 mm, vessel diameter <2.5 mm, pre-PCI Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction flow <3, and lesion location). Model discrimination was very good (development C statistic, 0.808; validation C statistic, 0.741) with excellent calibration. Patients with a score of ≥8 points had a 22% and 27% risk of no reflow in the development and validation cohorts, respectively. The no-reflow prediction in acute coronary syndrome risk score is a simple count-based scoring system based on 6 parameters available before PCI to predict the risk of no reflow. This score could be useful in guiding preventative treatment and future trials.

The efficacy of excimer laser coronary atherectomy in ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a report from the STELA registry

Abstract Backgrounds Previous studies have demonstrated potential effect of excimer laser coronary atherectomy (ELCA) to reduce thrombus burden within the vessel, and ELCA has been used during primary PCI for acute coronary syndrome. Especially, the culprit lesions of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) are generally accompanied by large thrombus burden. Nevertheless, the clinical effectiveness of ELCA use for the culprit lesions of STEMI has not been elucidated. Purpose To investigate the clinical outcomes of the STEMI patients who were treated with ELCA during primary PCI in comparison with those treated without ELCA. Methods We conducted the registry study of STEMI for the assessment of the efficacy of ELCA, which was an observational multicenter registry of the consecutive patients undergoing primary PCI for STEMI within 24 hours from the onset between 2015 and 2019. The patients were divided into two groups according to the use of ELCA during primary PCI: ELCA group and non-ELCA group. The primary endpoint was the major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), which was defined as the composite of cardiovascular death (CVD), target vascular revascularization and non-fatal AMI. Propensity score (PS) matching was performed to adjust the bias of confounding factors using 1:1 nearest-neighbor matching without replacement. PS was yielded from clinical characteristics, baseline angiographic findings, and hemodynamic status that were imbalanced between the two groups. Results A total of 2593 patients, 424 patients in ELCA group and 2169 patients in non-ELCA group, were included in the analysis. PS matched cohort comprised 824 patients including 412 ELCA and 412 non-ELCA group. Median follow-up duration in the total cohort was 816 (394-1388) days. In the total cohort, baseline characteristics showed that younger age, less prevalent hypertension, and more frequent prior statin use in ELCA group than in non-ELCA group. In terms of clinical outcomes, ELCA group showed a significantly lower rate of CVD than non-ELCA group (4.3% vs 7.5%, P for log-rank = 0.03), whereas MACE rate was similar between the two groups (HR:1.00 95%CI 0.74-1.34, P=0.99). In the PS matched cohort, the baseline characteristics were well balanced. Clinical outcomes including MACE and CVD were comparable between the two groups (MACE HR:1.13 95%CI 0.76-1.66, P=0.53 and CVD HR0.70 95%CI 0.38-1.29 P=0.25). In the subgroup analysis, MACE rate was lower in ELCA group than in non-ELCA group in the patients who presented with Killip class III or IV (P for interaction &amp;lt;0.01) (Abstract Picture 1). Conclusions The use of ELCA was not associated with improved MACEs in both total cohort and the PS matched cohort, whereas subgroup analysis suggested a potential benefit of ELCA in patients with heart failure. Further prospective investigations are warranted.Forest Plots for Subgroup Analysis

Early initiation of PCSK9 inhibitor therapy versus placebo in patients with acute coronary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background In patients with stable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and prior atherosclerotic events, PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) have shown a 50-60% reduction in LDL-C from baseline, on a background of high-intensity or maximally tolerated statin therapy, leading to a 15% relative reduction in the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events. However, less is known about the impact of PCSK9i initiation acutely in the setting of an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Purpose To assess the efficacy of early initiation of PCSK9i therapy in lipid parameters among patients presenting with ACS. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing PCSK9i with placebo in the setting of ACS, added to guideline directed high-intensity or maximally tolerated statin therapy. Inclusion was restricted to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with initiation of PCSK9i or placebo within 1 week of presentation or percutaneous coronary intervention for ACS. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central were searched. The systematic review and meta-analysis followed Cochrane and PRISMA recommendations. Results Six RCTs with a total of 996 patients were included, of whom 503 (50.5%) received PCSK9i. Mean follow-up ranged from 4 to 52 weeks. Mean time from presentation to administration of first dose ranged from 3.6 hours to 6.5 days. LDL-C levels were significantly lower at follow-up in the PCSK9i group (mean difference [MD] -44 mg/dL; 95% CI -54.3 to -33.8 mg/dL; p&amp;lt;0.001; Figure 1A). Lp(a) was also significantly decreased with PCSK9i therapy (MD -24.0 nmol/L; 95% CI -43.0 to -4.9 nmol/L; p=0.01; Figure 1B). Similarly, total cholesterol (MD -49.2 mg/dL; 95% CI -59 to -39.3 mg/dL; p&amp;lt;0.001) and triglycerides (MD -19 mg/dL; 95% CI -29.9 to -8.2 mg/dL; p&amp;lt;0.001) were significantly reduced with PCSK9i therapy, respectively. HDL-C was marginally increased in this same group (MD 2.5 mg/dL; 95% CI 0.9 to 4.2 mg/dL; p=0.003). Conclusions In patients with ACS, early initiation of PCSK9i, in addition to statin therapy, leads to a significant reduction in LDL-C and Lp(a) as compared with placebo. Whether the differences in these lipoproteins translate into a reduction in clinical endpoints is yet to be determined.

Abstract 14077: Anticoagulation Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Introduction: To maximize reperfusion and thrombus breakdown, anticoagulation therapy may be continued after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, limited evidence exists to support this practice. Methods: An electronic search was conducted using MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from inception to March 19th, 2023. Eligible studies comparing 30-day outcomes of post-procedural anticoagulation (PPAC) with no PPAC after PCI in patients with ACS were screened for inclusion. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Pooled risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated using a random-effect model. Results: Total 6 studies (3 observational, 3 post-hoc analyses of randomized controlled trials) with 61,901 patients (PPAC=38,900, no PPAC=23,001) were selected. There were no significant differences in all-cause mortality (RR 0.79 [0.52-1.19], P=0.26), cardiac mortality (RR 0.69 [0.43-1.11], P=0.13), myocardial infarction (RR 0.86 [0.61-1.21] P=0.39), stroke (RR 1.18 [0.87-1.59], P=0.29), and major bleeding (RR 0.91 [0.65-1.27], P=0.58) between PPAC and no PPAC groups. However, PPAC was associated with a higher rate of stent thrombosis at 30 days (RR 1.34 [1.04-1.73], P=0.02). Conclusions: Overall, PPAC following PCI for ACS did not improve survival or cardiovascular morbidity. However, there was a slightly higher incidence of stent thrombosis in the PPAC cohort. Further randomized studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

Early Initiation of PCSK9 Inhibitor Therapy Versus Placebo in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

In patients with stable atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9is) have shown a 50% to 60% reduction in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) from baseline when added to high-intensity statin therapy. However, less is known about the impact of PCSK9is in the setting of an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Therefore, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing PCSK9is with placebo in the setting of ACS added to guideline-directed high-intensity or maximally tolerated statin therapy. We included randomized controlled trials with initiation of a PCSK9i or placebo within 1week of presentation or percutaneous coronary intervention for ACS. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central were searched. This study followed the Cochrane and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) recommendations. A total of 6 randomized controlled trials were included, with a total of 996 patients, of whom 503 (50.5%) received PCSK9is. The mean follow-up ranged from 4 to 52weeks. The LDL-C (mean difference [MD] -44.0mg/100ml, CI -54.3 to -33.8, p <0.001) and lipoprotein (a) levels (MD -24.0nmol/L, confidence interval [CI] -43.0 to -4.9, p = 0.01) were significantly lower at follow-up with PCSK9is. Similarly, the total cholesterol (MD -49.2mg/100ml, CI -59.0 to -39.3), triglycerides (MD -19.0mg/100ml, CI -29.9 to -8.2), and apolipoprotein B (MD -33.3mg/100ml, CI -44.4 to -22.1) were significantly reduced with PCSK9is. In conclusion, in patients with ACS, early initiation of PCSK9i added to statin significantly reduces LDL-C and lipoprotein (a) levels compared with placebo. Whether the differences in these atherogenic lipoproteins translate into a reduction in clinical end points is yet to be determined.

Validation of prediction tools for GI bleeding in patients on dual anti-platelet therapy after percutaneous coronary intervention

Background & AimsThe management of dual anti-platelet therapy (DAPT) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) remains a clinical dilemma. We sought to identify predictors of a GIB and a rebleed and to determine whether a rebleed increases the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). MethodsIn this single-center retrospective study, patients undergoing PCI were identified. The primary and secondary endpoints were a GIB at 180 days, and a rebleed or MACE at 365 days. Logistic regression was used to identify predictors of GIB and rebleed. Cox Proportional Hazard modeling was used to determine whether rebleed can predict MACE. ResultsA total of 536 patients were included. On multivariable analysis, PCI for acute coronary syndrome was associated with 95% increased odds of GIB, p < 0.001. The P2Y12 inhibitor was continued in > 90% of patients, which trended towards significance for a rebleed, p < 0.10. The HAS-BLED score, including a labile INR and prior major bleeding, were strongly associated with a rebleed, p ≤ 0.009. A rebleed was associated with a 115% increased risk of MACE, p = 0.02. We derived a novel risk score, named the SIGE score, to predict a rebleed at 365 days with a high predictive accuracy, AUC 0.773 (95% CI: 0.702 – 0.845). ConclusionThe SIGE score may help to predict rebleeding, which was shown to be associated with an increased risk of MACE. Further external validation is needed.

Association of prognostic nutritional index with long-term mortality in patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention for acute coronary syndrome: a meta-analysis

The predictive value of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) for the long-term prognosis of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) remains uncertain. Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched from inception until January 2023 to study the relationship between all-cause mortality risk and PNI in patients receiving percutaneous coronary intervention for ACS (i.e., primary outcome). Thirteen observational studies were included in this meta-analysis. Analysis of seven studies using PNI as a categorical variable showed a pooled hazard ratio (HR) of all-cause mortality of 2.97 (95% CI 1.65 to 5.34, p = 0.0003, I2 = 89%, n = 11,245) for patients with a low PNI. The meta-analysis also showed a higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in patients with a low PNI (HR 2.04; 95% CI 1.59 to 2.61; p < 0.00001; I2 = 21%; n = 8534). Moreover, advanced age, diabetes mellitus, and high Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events risk scores were associated with a high risk of all-cause mortality, whereas a high body mass index was associated with a low risk of all-cause mortality. The results showed an association between a low PNI and an increased risk of long-term mortality in patients undergoing coronary interventions for ACS. Further randomized controlled trials are necessary to confirm these findings.

Effect of frailty on major bleeding in octogenarian patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention.

There has been an increase in the number of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedures performed in octogenarian patients due to increased life expectancy and developments in modern medicine. Frailty is associated with the aging process, gradual loss of multiple body functions, and poor health outcomes. We examined the association between frailty and major bleeding in octogenarian patients undergoing PCI. We retrospectively analyzed the records of two local research hospitals in Turkey. In total, 244 patients were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into two groups based on their Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) score. The non-frail group included patients with CFS scores of 1 (very fit) to 4 (living with very mild frailty), while the frail group included those with CFS scores of 5 (living with mild frailty) to 9 (terminally ill). Of the 244 patients, 131 were classified into the non-frail group and 113 into the frail group. Ticagrelor use was significantly more common in the non-frail group (31.3% vs. 20.4%, p=0.036). Major bleeding was more common in the frail than non-frail group (20.4% vs. 6.1%, p<0.001). The rates of stroke and all-cause death were higher in the frail than in non-frail group (stroke 15.9% vs. 3.8%, p<0.001, as well as all-cause mortality rate (27.4% vs. 2.3%, p<0.001). Frailty is an independent predictor of major bleeding in patients undergoing PCI for acute coronary syndrome. Use of the P2Y12 inhibitor ticagrelor increases the risk of major bleeding in frail patients.

Intracoronary imaging in PCI for acute coronary syndrome: Insights from British Cardiovascular Intervention Society registry

BackgroundWhile previous studies have demonstrated the superiority of ICI-guided PCI over an angiography-based approach, there are limited data on all-comer ACS patients.This study aimed to identify the characteristics and in-hospital outcomes of patients undergoing intracoronary imaging (ICI) guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). MethodsAll patient undergoing PCI for ACS in England and Wales between 2006 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed and stratified according to ICI utilization. The outcomes assessed were in-hospital all-cause mortality and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) using multivariable logistic regression models. Results598,921 patients underwent PCI for ACS, of which 41,716 (7.0 %) had ICI which was predominantly driven by IVUS use (5.6 %). ICI use steadily increased from 1.4 % in 2006 to 13.5 % in 2019. Adjusted odds of mortality (OR 0.69, 95%CI 0.58–0.83) and MACCE (OR 0.77, 95%CI 0.73–0.83) were significantly lower in the ICI group. The association between ICI and improved outcomes varied according to vessel treated with both left main stem (LMS) and LMS/left anterior descending (LAD) PCI associated with significantly lower odds of mortality (OR 0.34, 95%CI 0.27–0.44, OR 0.51 95%CI 0.45–0.56) and MACCE (OR 0.44 95%CI 0.35–0.54, OR 0.67 95%CI 0.62–0.72) respectively. ConclusionsAlthough ICI use has steadily increased, less than one in seven patients underwent ICI-guided PCI. The association between ICI use and improved in-hospital outcomes was mainly observed in PCI procedures involving LMS and LAD.

Assessing the Clinical Treatment Dynamics of Antiplatelet Therapy Following Acute Coronary Syndrome and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in the US

A platelet ADP P2Y12 receptor (P2Y12) inhibitor plus aspirin is standard therapy for patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Compared with clopidogrel, prasugrel and ticagrelor are associated with superior antiatherothrombotic effects but increased bleeding risk; with recent guideline updates, it is important to describe current treatment patterns and the role of bleeding risk in treatment choice. To describe secular trends and determinants of initial P2Y12 inhibitor choice and switching, including deescalation (switch from prasugrel or ticagrelor to clopidogrel). This retrospective cohort study used MarketScan Commercial Claims Data from 2010 to 2019 for patients aged 18 years or older who underwent PCI for ACS, had no P2Y12 inhibitor use in the past year, and filled a P2Y12 inhibitor prescription within 30 days after PCI hospitalization discharge. Data were analyzed from February to May 2022. Clopidogrel, prasugrel, and ticagrelor, with determinants including bleeding risk measured using Academic Research Consortium for High Bleeding Risk criteria, sociodemographic characteristics, P2Y12 inhibitor copays, and bleeding events during follow-up. The prevalence of each P2Y12 inhibitor among patients who initiated the drugs and the prevalence of switching within 12 months after PCI were evaluated. The association between baseline bleeding risk and bleeding manifestations during follow-up and initial treatment and deescalation were calculated using multivariable logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression models. Between 2010 and 2019, 62 423 patients were identified who initiated P2Y12 inhibitors (females, 22.4%; males, 77.6%; mean [SD] age, 54.32 [7.13] years). The prevalence of clopidogrel as initial therapy decreased from 77.5% in 2010 to 29.6% in 2019, while initial use of prasugrel or ticagrelor increased from 22.5% to 60.4%. Within 1 year after PCI, 11.0% of patients switched therapy, mostly for deescalation. Deescalation prevalence increased from 1.8% in 2010 to 12.6% in 2018. Between 2016 and 2018, 8588 of 22 886 (37.5%) patients had major baseline bleeding risk, which decreased the selection of prasugrel or ticagrelor as initial therapy (adjusted odds ratio, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.74-0.84). Among 11 285 patients who initiated prasugrel or ticagrelor, major bleeding risk at baseline (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.00-1.23) and the occurrence of bleeding during follow-up (adjusted hazard ratio, 4.42; 95% CI, 3.62-5.93) were associated with deescalation. A strong shift in preference for prasugrel and ticagrelor as initial therapy following PCI for ACS was observed. Deescalation increased over the study period. Major bleeding risk at baseline was moderately associated with initial treatment choice but had a limited association with deescalation. The increasing use of more potent P2Y12 inhibitors emphasizes opportunities to enhance preemptive patient-centered treatment strategies to maintain optimal antiplatelet activity while reducing bleeding risk during the subacute period following PCI for ACS.

Echocardiographic Measures of Left Atrial Structure and Function and the Association with Atrial Fibrillation following Acute Coronary Syndrome

Introduction: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is associated with an increased risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF). This arrhythmia is associated with adverse outcomes, making it important to identify high-risk patients. The aim was to evaluate the prognostic value of measures of left atrial (LA) structure and function in AF prediction following ACS. Methods: Three hundred and eighty-one patients who had a percutaneous coronary intervention for ACS were included in the study. Our endpoint was new-onset AF. Results: With a median follow-up time of 5.4 [3.9–6.8] years, 56 patients (14.7%) developed AF. Patients developing AF had significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased maximal and minimal LA volumes (LAV_max and LAV_min, respectively). LAV_max and LAV_min remained significantly increased in AF patients when indexing to either body surface area (LAV_max/BSA and LAV_min/BSA, respectively), left ventricle length in end diastole (LAV_max/LVLd and LAV_min/LVLd, respectively), or late mitral annular diastolic velocity (LAV_max/a’ and LAV_min/a’, respectively), while LA expansion index (LAEi), LA emptying fraction (LAEF), and peak LA longitudinal strain (PALS) were decreased. In univariable Cox regressions, all LA measures were found to be predictors of AF. After multivariable adjustment for clinical and echocardiographic parameters, all measures reflecting atrial function (LAV_min, LAV_min/BSA, LAV_min/LVLd, LAV_min/a’, LAV_max/a’, LAEF, LAEi, and PALS) (p ≤ 0.05) but no structural measures (LAV_max, LAV_max/BSA, and LAV_max/LVLd) remained significant independent predictors of AF. Conclusion: Echocardiographic measures of LA function are independent predictors of AF following ACS. Evaluation of LA function might improve the prognostic workup, aid in risk stratification for AF, and improve selection for further examinations.

Optimising adherence to secondary prevention medications following acute coronary syndrome utilising telehealth cardiology pharmacist clinics: a matched cohort study

BackgroundAdherence to secondary prevention medications following acute coronary syndromes (ACS) is a predictor of future major adverse cardiovascular events. Underutilisation of these medications is associated with higher risk of major adverse cardiovascular events globally.AimTo explore the effects of a telehealth cardiology pharmacist clinic on patient adherence to secondary prevention medications in the 12 months following ACS.MethodRetrospective matched cohort study within a large regional health service comparing patient populations before and after implementation of pharmacist clinic with 12-month follow up. Patients who received percutaneous coronary intervention for ACS were consulted by the pharmacist at 1, 3- and 12-months. Matching criteria included age, sex, presence of left ventricular dysfunction and ACS type. Primary outcome was difference in adherence in adherence at 12 months post ACS. Secondary outcomes included major adverse cardiovascular events at 12 months and validation of self-reported adherence using medication possession ratios from pharmacy dispensing records.ResultsThere were 156 patients in this study (78 matched pairs). Analysis of adherence at 12 months demonstrated an absolute increase in adherence by 13% (31 vs. 44%, p = 0.038). Furthermore, sub-optimal medical therapy (less than 3 ACS medication groups at 12 months) reduced by 23% (31 vs. 8%, p = 0.004).ConclusionThis novel intervention significantly improved adherence to secondary prevention medications at 12 months, a demonstrated contributor to clinical outcomes. Primary and secondary outcomes in the intervention group were both statistically significant. Pharmacist-led follow up improves adherence and patient outcomes.

Contrast Induce Nephropathy in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Acute Coronary Syndrome: Differences in STEMI and NSTEMI

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is a common complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with acute coronary syndrome. The incidence and risk factors for CIN in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) undergoing PCI are not well understood. In this prospective observational study, we enrolled 314 patients who underwent PCI for acute coronary syndrome at the cardiology department of KGMC MTI-HMC, Peshawar from June 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022. The incidence of CIN was higher in patients with STEMI compared to those with NSTEMI (18.5% vs. 8.7%, p=0.036). Hypertension was found to be a significant risk factor for CIN (OR 3.36, 95% CI 1.49-7.57, p=0.003), but it did not fully explain the differential risk between the two groups. Our findings suggest that the underlying pathophysiology of STEMI and NSTEMI may play a role in the development of CIN. Further studies are needed to identify the contributing factors and potential interventions to reduce the risk of CIN in patients undergoing PCI for acute coronary syndrome.