Risk Of In-hospital Mortality Research Articles

The Effects of Prophylactic Laxative Use on Critically Ill Patients Requiring Mechanical Ventilation: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective: To investigate the effects of prophylactic use of stimulant laxatives and/or docusate on the clinical outcomes in critically ill patients who required mechanical ventilation (MV). Methods: A single-center, retrospective, cohort study was conducted. Patients who received MV in the first 24 h after intensive care unit (ICU) admission were enrolled and divided into four groups: non-laxative, stimulant laxatives, docusate, and stimulant laxatives–docusate combination. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. The major secondary outcomes included ICU-free days and ventilator-free days at 28 days; the other outcomes were ventilation-associated pneumonia (VAP), enterobacterial infection, diarrhea, and electrolyte disturbances. Inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) was used to adjust for confounders. Results: A total of 2129 patients were included in this study, 263 of whom received stimulant laxatives, 253 received docusate, 368 received a combination, and 1245 did not receive any laxative. The prophylactic use of docusate was associated with a decreased risk of in-hospital mortality (OR: 0.59, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.83, p = 0.002) and VAP (OR: 0.62, 95% CI 0.47 to 0.81, p = 0.001). It was also associated with an increase in ICU-free days at 28 days (β: 0.89, 95% CI 0.83 to 0.95, p < 0.001). Importantly, laxatives prophylaxis was not associated with increased risks of diarrhea, electrolyte disturbances, and enterobacterial infections. Conclusions: Prophylactic use of docusate may improve certain prognoses and does not demonstrate any adverse events. However, further research is necessary to determine the optimal regimen and dosage of prophylactic laxatives in this specific population.

A Novel Scoring System for Assessing In-Hospital Mortality Risk in Patients With Liver Cirrhosis

A Novel Scoring System for Assessing In-Hospital Mortality Risk in Patients With Liver Cirrhosis

Characteristics, temporal trends and outcomes of intravenous thrombolysis in Chinese patients aged>80 years who had a stroke.

To date, no large cohort study has investigated the effects of intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) in Chinese patients aged over 80 years who had a stroke. This study aimed to assess the trends in the use of alteplase, the clinical characteristics and the outcomes of Chinese patients aged above 80 years who had an acute ischaemic stroke. Data for this analysis were obtained from the China Stroke Center Alliance programme, a nationwide, multicentre, prospective registry encompassing 1751 hospitals across 31 provinces, covering the period from 1 January 2018 to 14 December 2022. The primary outcome was defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) Score of 0-2 at discharge. Secondary outcomes included an mRS Score of 0-1 and independent ambulation on discharge. Safety outcomes assessed were in-hospital mortality and symptomatic intracranial haemorrhage (sICH). Out of 30 902 patients over 80 years old who qualified for thrombolysis, 8673 (median age (IQR), 84 (82-87) years) received alteplase treatment. Patients administered alteplase demonstrated improved short-term functional outcomes, such as an mRS Score of 0-2 (adjusted OR (aOR) 1.12, 95% CI, 1.06 to 1.18, p<0.001), an mRS Score of 0-1 (aOR 1.14, 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.19, p<0.001) and independent ambulation at discharge (aOR 1.14, 95% CI, 1.08 to 1.20, p<0.001). Moreover, no significant increase was observed in the risk of in-hospital mortality (aOR 1.12, 95% CI, 0.93 to 1.35; p=0.23). However, the risk of sICH was significantly higher among patients treated with alteplase (aOR 3.22, 95% CI, 2.77 to 3.75; p<0.001). IVT with alteplase in elderly patients who had a stroke resulted in improved short-term functional outcomes without elevating the risk of in-hospital mortality. Nonetheless, this population remains at a higher risk of sICH.

Предикторы госпитальной летальности при экстренном хирургическом лечении острейшего расслоения аорты типа А по Стенфорду в условиях искусственного кровообращения: ретроспективное когортное исследование

INTRODUCTION: Acute Stanford type A aortic dissection is one of the most severe cardiovascular diseases with high in-hospital mortality. OBJECTIVE: To establish predictors of in-hospital mortality in the treatment of patients with acute Stanford type A aortic dissection under conditions of artificial circulation and to determine their threshold values. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Study design: retrospective, cohort, single-center. Inclusion criteria: surgical intervention with cardiopulmonary bypass, confirmed diagnosis of acute Stanford type A aortic dissection, age &gt; 18 years. The study included 51 patients: 42 men and 9 women aged from 35 to 77 years, median 59 years [47; 65]. All patients (n = 51) were treated in 2022 and were divided into 2 groups depending on the outcome: group 1 (n = 27) included those who died in the intensive care unit within 30 days, group 2 (n = 24) included survived and discharged patients. The endpoint of trial was 30-day in-hospital mortality. RESULTS: Postoperative Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score &gt; 7, Acute Physiology And Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score &gt; 19, and Vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) &gt; 10, cardiopulmonary bypass time &gt; 177 minutes, and total hypothermic circulatory arrest time &gt; 30 minutes were associated with an increased risk of 30-day in-hospital mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Statistically significant predictors of hospital mortality in the treatment of patients with acute Stanford type A aortic dissection under cardiopulmonary bypass are the SOFA index, the APACHE II index and the VIS index after the end of surgery, as well as the time of cardiopulmonary bypass and the time of total hypothermic circulatory arrest.

Association of Serum Blood Urea Nitrogen to Albumin Ratio with in-Hospital Mortality in Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Retrospective Cohort Study of the eICU Database

Albumin (ALB) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) are both associated with the prognosis of acute ischemic stroke (AIS). A recent prognostic marker, the BUN/ALB ratio (BAR), has been suggested as a simple and sensitive method to predict certain acute diseases. To determine the predictive value of BAR in relation to the risk of in-hospital mortality among AIS patients. Retrospective cohort study. Cox regression analysis was employed to assess the relationship between in-hospital mortality and BAR, with hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals. Subgroup analysis of acute pulmonary embolism, acute myocardial infarction (AMI), thrombolysis, thrombectomy, and septic shock was performed to further examine this relationship. The predictive value of BAR and BAR multivariate models for in-hospital mortality was evaluated and compared to BUN, ALB, the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation IV (APACHE IV) score, and the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score (SOFA). Among the 1,635 eligible patients, 226 (13.81%) died during hospitalization. An elevated serum BAR level was associated with an increased in-hospital mortality risk (HR: 1.3) after covariates were adjusted. Additionally, this positive association was observed in patients without AP, AMI, thrombolysis, history of thrombectomy, or septic shock (all; p < 0.05). The efficacy of the BAR multivariate model in predicting in-hospital mortality among AIS patients was superior to that of both APACHE IV and SOFA, with an area under the curve of 0.87. Serum BAR exhibits the potential to identify AIS patients with high mortality risk, which may contribute to enhanced disease surveillance and risk stratification.

Serum Osmolality as a Predictor of Renal Function Decline: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Background and Aims: Dehydration is a prevalent and costly healthcare concern, linked to heightened risks of acute kidney injury and in-hospital mortality. Despite its significance, limited evidence exists regarding its prevalence and correlation with renal function decline in apparently healthy individuals. This retrospective cohort study aimed to investigate the prevalence and association of dehydration with renal function decline and the development or progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the general population. Methods: The medical records of subjects undergoing annual health check-ups from 2016 to 2019 at a single center in Taiwan were analyzed, and those with CKD stage V, insufficient data, or an increased estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were excluded. Serum osmolality, eGFR, and relevant parameters were measured. Logistic regression and Kaplan–Meier analyses were used to assess associations between osmolality and CKD-related outcomes. Results: Among the 4449 eligible subjects, those in the higher osmolality quartiles had an elevated risk of CKD or CKD progression. Multivariate analyses identified age, systolic blood pressure, serum osmolality, uric acid, proteinuria, and a history of diabetes as independent risk factors, with high-density lipoprotein being protective. Cumulative incidence curves demonstrated a significant increase in the risk of CKD with increasing osmolality levels. Restricted cubic spline analyses confirmed a nonlinear relationship between osmolality and CKD risk. Conclusions: Elevated serum osmolality independently predicted renal function decline and CKD development in apparently healthy individuals, and this effect persisted after adjusting for established risk factors. Our findings underscore the importance of addressing dehydration as a modifiable risk factor for CKD.

Biochemical variables as predictors of in-hospital mortality in patients with acute coronary syndrome

Abstract Background There is a constant search of easily obtainable variables that can be put in relation with in-hospital mortality, enabling creation of prediction risk models in patients treated for acute coronary syndrome. Purpose The main goal of this study was to unravel what is the profile of the patients with acute coronary syndrome in risk of in-hospital mortality, based on simple biochemical variables acquired at the time of hospital admission. Methods This was a single-center cross-sectional cohort study on 3007 pts. treated for ACS (STEMI and NSTEMI). Venous blood sample at hospital admission was acquired for every patient. Patients were comparatively analyzed for their biochemical variables derived from venous blood sample, based on occurrence of in-hospital mortality. Results Out of 3007 pts, 988 (28.2%) were females, and 2519 (71.8%) males, at mean age 62.6 +/- 11.2 y. In-hospital mortality rate was 4.8% (145 out of 3007). We subjected to comparative analyzed hemogram, markers of renal function including sodium and potassium, glycemic profile, complete lipid panel (including ApoA1 and ApoB), and highly sensitive troponin. Significant association with in-hospital mortality was found for: hsTn, stress glycemia and glicated hemoglobin, BUN, creatinite, eGFR, sodium, potasium, full lipid panel [except for HDL-C and Lp(a)]. In the second step, markers proven to be significantly different were subjected to multivariate binary logistic regression (backward conditional). We designed two models, one that included ApoA1 and ApoB (including 1816 pts. for whom we had data), and the second without these two parameters (including 3007 pts.). With the first model we identified: Advanced age, stress glycemia, WBC, eGFR, HDL-C and ApoA1 as independent predictors. Surprisingly, HDL-C was found to be strong independent predictor in multivariate analyzis. While with second modeling we identified advanced age, hsTn, stress glycemia, RBC, WBC, BUN and eGFR as independent predictors. Conclusion Advanced age is a strong independent predictor in any modelling. When we have a possibility to obtain a complete lipid panel, beside stress glycemia and WBC as markers of the degree of neuro-hormonal activation and inflammation, and renal function, HDL-C and ApoA1 seems to be strong negative independent predictors. In the absence of this data beside aforementioned markers of neurohormonal activation and inflammation, and renal function, the degree of myocardial injury plays a significant role. According to our data it seems reasonable to obtain complete lipid panel at hospital admission.Multivariate logistic regression modelsAge distribution across genders

Trends in intracardiac thrombus formation in myocardial infarction patients after PCI: a nationwide analysis

Abstract Background Percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) have become a crucial therapeutic option for myocardial infarction (MI) patients. However, the clinical outcomes and complications associated with PCI, especially in relation to intracardiac thrombus, remain a subject of concern. Purpose We aimed to examine the real-world clinical outcomes and temporal trends of in-hospital mortality and intracardiac thrombus among myocardial infarction patients treated with PCI between 2017 and 2020. Methods The National Inpatient Sample was queried from 2017 to 2020 to identify all adults with myocardial infarction (ST elevation and Non-ST elevation MI) who underwent PCI using the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes. The Cochran-Armitage test assessed the linear trend of in-hospital intracardiac thrombus and mortality. Multivariable regression analysis was conducted to assess the association of PCI with in-hospital mortality and intracardiac thrombus. The Charlson comorbidity index was used to adjust for confounders. Results are represented as adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results Of the 1,394,650 patients who underwent PCI, 8,080 (0.58%) experienced intracardiac thrombus, with a mean age of 62, predominantly male (76%). Despite decreasing rates of PCI noted over this 4-year period (Figure 1). There was an upward trend in in-hospital intracardiac thrombus revealed over a 4-year period (trend: 0.54%, p &amp;lt; 0.001). PCI was associated with a yearly increase in intracardiac thrombus in 2018 in 0.54% of patients (OR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.2 to 1.6, p &amp;lt; 0.001). In 2019, 0.56% of patients experienced intracardiac thrombus (OR = 1.4, 95% CI 1.2 to 1.6, p = 0.001); in 2020, 0.72% of patients (OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.6 to 2.1, p = 0.008), compared to 2017 (0.4%). Mortality rates for PCI and ICT patients were 6% in 2017 (OR 2.2, p &amp;lt; 0.001, 95% CI 1.4-3.2), decreased to 5% in 2018 (OR 1.8, p &amp;lt; 0.004, 95% CI 1.2-2.6) and 4.7% in 2019 (OR 1.6, p &amp;lt; 0.01, 95% CI 1.1-2.4), then rose to 6.6% in 2020 (OR 2, 95% CI 1.4-2.8) (Table 1). Overall, in-hospital mortality was 5.6% (OR = 1.6, 95% CI 1.3 to 1.9, p &amp;lt; 0.001) among patients who had intracardiac thrombus related to PCI. Conclusions Our findings indicate a significant increase in intracardiac thrombus rates among MI patients treated with PCI from 2017 to 2020, accompanied by a considerable risk of in-hospital mortality. These outcomes underscore the critical need for vigilant monitoring and enhanced management approaches in this patient demographic.Figure 1Table 1

Valve unit instead of intensive care unit admission after transcatheter edge-to-edge tricuspid valve repair

Abstract Background Standardization of periprocedural pathways reduces the length of hospital stay and thus healthcare costs and increases patient safety. Post-procedure admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) after transcatheter edge-to-edge tricuspid valve repair (T-TEER) has been the standard of care. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic related decline in high-care hospital beds, our center established primary admission to a dedicated general cardiologic care ward, the valve unit (VU). Aim To assess benefits and risks of admission to the VU instead of ICU after T-TEER. Methods This retrospective observational study included 270 consecutive patients who underwent T-TEER between March 2017 and June 2023 at our university hospital. Patients were admitted to the ICU post-procedure up to April 9th 2020 as standard (ICU-group, n = 53). Subsequent patients were planned for admission to a dedicated VU (VU-group, n = 217). We compared the groups and assessed length of hospital stay and in-hospital complications. In the VU-group, we examined unplanned transfer to the ICU (cross-over) and its predictors. Results Monitoring at the VU included continuous telemetric ECG-recording, oxygen saturation assessment, periodical blood pressure measurements and 24-hours physician presence. In contrast to the ICU, only non-invasive blood pressure measurements, less frequent laboratory controls and less intense fluid monitoring took place. The postinterventional hospital stay of patients with planned VU admission was significantly shorter compared to patients with planned ICU admission (median 4 (interquartile range (IQR) 3 - 5) vs. 4 (IQR 4 - 5) days, p = 0.030). Remarkably, overall complication rates were low and cardiogenic shock, infections, bleeding, vascular complications, delirium and acute kidney injury requiring dialysis were similar in both groups. 37 patients that were planned for VU had to cross over to unplanned ICU admission (17.1 %). Patients that had crossed over to unplanned ICU treatment had significantly higher risk for acute kidney injury (20.0 vs. 10.0%, p = 0.039) and in-hospital mortality (5.6 vs. 0%, p = 0.045). Higher systolic pulmonary artery pressure (sPAP) (OR 1.048, 95 %-CI 1.015 – 1.082, p = 0.003), NYHA functional class &amp;gt;= III (OR 9.176, 95 % CI 1.141 – 74.396, p = 0.037), and pre-interventional tricuspid regurgitation (TR) grade V (OR 2.941, 95 % CI 1.089 – 7.970, p = 0.033) were found to independently predict cross-over to unplanned ICU treatment. Conclusion Postinterventional admission to the VU instead of ICU after T-TEER shortens postprocedural hospital stay. A small proportion of had an unplanned transfer to ICU, which was accompanied by slightly higher complication rates. This cross-over affects patients with more advanced disease indicated by high pulmonary pressures, NYHA class and TR grade. Thus, admission to a valve unit is favorable for most patients after T-TEER, but those with advanced disease should be monitored more closely.

Infective endocarditis - characteristics and long-term outcomes in patients with congenital heart disease are distinct from those without congenital heart disease

Abstract Background Patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) form a high-risk niche among patients considered at high-risk of infective endocarditis (IE). Their life-long exposure to the risk of IE, starting from birth, necessitates a nuanced approach to both prevention and treatment strategies. However, comprehensive data from an unselected nationwide cohort, including children, are lacking. Purpose This study sets out to compare characteristics and associated outcomes among patients with IE with and without CHD. Methods Using nationwide registries, all Danish patients diagnosed with IE from 1977-2021 were identified and stratified on whether they had a diagnosis of CHD, regardless of its complexity. Characteristics prior to and during admission as well as associated outcomes (i.e., in-hospital mortality, 1-year mortality, and 10-year mortality, and IE recurrence) were compared between groups. Results In total, 14,040 patients were diagnosed with IE from 1977-2021 including 895 (6.4%) with a diagnosis of CHD. Patients with versus without CHD were significantly younger at time of IE diagnosis (median age 38.8 years [IQR 21.2-56.4 years] versus 70.7 years [IQR 58.8-78.9 years], Figure 1) and less comorbid. Patients with versus without CHD were hospitalized due to IE for a similar period of time but more often underwent cardiac surgery during admission (44.9% versus 21.3%). The IE-related bacteremia was significantly different between groups: the most common bacteriemia in relation to IE was Streptococci (29.9%) in patients with CHD and Staphylococcus Aureus (29.9%) in patients without CHD. Patients with CHD were associated with a significantly lower risk of in-hospital mortality (6.4% versus 19.8%), 1-year mortality (10.5% versus 32.4%) and 10-year mortality (21.3% versus 58.7%) compared with those without CHD. The 10-year incidence of IE recurrence was similar among groups (p-value 0.5). Conclusions Patients with CHD who develop IE are distinctive from patients with IE without CHD in terms of characteristics as well as long-term outcomes. Notably, our findings stress a key point: the majority of children and adolescents with IE have a CHD. These unselected findings should help guide future preventive strategies, diagnosis, and management.

Guideline-directed medical therapy and in-hospital mortality in acute coronary syndrome patients with advanced renal dysfunction

Abstract Background It is unclear whether early (initiated within 24 hours of admission) guideline-directed medical therapy [GDMT, i.e., the combined use of β-blocker, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker, dual antiplatelet drugs and statin] could benefit acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients with advanced renal dysfunction [estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) &amp;lt; 30 mL/min/1.73 m2]. Objectives The purpose of this study was to verify whether GDMT could improve in-hospital mortality in ACS patients with advanced renal dysfunction. Methods This study included 3,288 and 3,520 ACS patients with admission with advanced renal dysfunction from the CNEDSSP and CCC-ACS cohorts, respectively. Multivariable-adjusted analysis and propensity score matching (PSM) were employed to assess the impact of GDMT on in-hospital mortality. Results In a pooled analysis of the CNEDSSP and CCC-ACS cohorts, early GDMT was associated with significantly lower in-hospital mortality (relative ratio [RR]: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.47 to 0.81). PSM revealed an attenuation of the association of in-hospital mortality with early GDMT in ACS patients, with statistically significant associated reductions observed only in myocardial infarction (MI) patients (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.75 in CNEDSSP cohort; HR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.84 in CCC-ACS cohort). A random-effect pooled analysis for MI patients with admission advanced renal dysfunction demonstrated a 56% lower in-hospital mortality among GDMT users (RR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.31 to 0.65). Conclusions This nationwide study highlights that early GDMT is associated with a reduced risk of in-hospital mortality in ACS patients (particularly in MI patients) with advanced renal dysfunction.

Impact of baseline thrombocytopenia on outcomes in hospitalizations for acute coronary syndrome and non-elective percutaneous coronary intervention: meta-analysis

Abstract Background Thrombocytopenia's impact on acute coronary syndromes (ACS) outcomes is poorly understood. A systematic review and meta-analysis aim to elucidate its influence on both short-term and long-term clinical endpoints, guiding tailored management strategies for improved patient care. Methods Our meta-analysis is registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024511832). We conducted a systematic search of PubMed and SCOPUS databases up to February 2024, utilizing keywords to identify studies on ACS or non-elective PCI populations with or without baseline thrombocytopenia (TP) reporting on in-hospital and long-term outcomes. Baseline TP was defined as a platelet count less than 150 x 10⁹/L and had to be established before hospitalization or ACS management or intervention. Binary random effects models were used to estimate pooled unadjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Sensitivity analysis was done by the leave-one-out method, and the heterogeneity was assessed with the I² statistics. Results From 2,831 identified studies, 10 were identified as eligible for inclusion in our pooled analysis and included 6,588,688 patients. Thrombocytopenia was associated with higher risks of in-hospital mortality (OR=1.89, 95% CI:1.55-2.30, p&amp;lt;0.01), in-hospital Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (OR=1.99, 95% CI:1.63-2.43, p&amp;lt;0.01), and in-hospital bleeding (OR=2.62, 95% CI:1.89-3.64, p&amp;lt;0.01). Long-term follow-up revealed increased risks of MACE (OR=1.80, 95% CI 1.49-2.18, p&amp;lt;0.01), bleeding (OR=1.63, 95% CI:1.63-2.25, p&amp;lt;0.01), and cardiovascular mortality (OR=2.07, 95% CI:1.76-2.42, p&amp;lt;0.01) with thrombocytopenia. No significant difference was found in in-hospital stroke outcomes and long-term outcomes for stroke and recurrent myocardial infarction between thrombocytopenic and non-thrombocytopenic groups. Conclusion Thrombocytopenia worsens ACS outcomes. Vigilance and tailored management are crucial for mitigating its impact on patient prognosis. Further research is needed for better interventions.Secondary outcomes forest plot

Impact of late reperfusion therapy in patients with inferior ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and right ventricular dysfunction: one size never fits all

Abstract Background A significant proportion of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients present late to the emergency room with limited evidence of benefit of reperfusion after 12 hours of symptom onset. Inferior myocardial infarction (MI) with right ventricle (RV) dysfunction is associated with high morbidity and mortality, however, the RV has a unique physiology that allows it to withstand ischemia better and recover faster. Purpose To compare adverse in-hospital cardiovascular events in latecomers with inferior STEMI and RV dysfunction admitted to a cardiovascular intensive care unit (CICU) from a low-to-middle-income country, who underwent late reperfusion treatment versus conservative treatment. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted from March 2022 to April 2023. Patients with inferior STEMI and RV dysfunction who received late reperfusion treatment were included. RV dysfunction was defined as a TAPSE &amp;lt;17 mm, tricuspid annular systolic velocity on TDI &amp;lt;9.5 cm/s, or a fractional area change &amp;lt;35%. Late reperfusion was defined as primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) performed after 12 hours of symptom onset or rescue PCI after 12 hours of failed fibrinolysis. The primary outcome was in-hospital all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes were cardiovascular death, reinfarction, stroke, cardiogenic shock, and mechanical complications. Results During the specified period, a total of 106 patients met the inclusion criteria from a total of 1,786 patients admitted to the CICU in our center. Only 60 patients underwent late PCI, accounting for 56% of the cases, with a median time of onset of symptoms to reperfusion of 19.4 hours (IQR: 15.7, 30.2). The average age was 66.5 ± 10.4 years, and 28% were women. Although the all-cause death rate was lower among late PCI group (13.3% vs 26.1%; p=0.096), this difference did not reach statistical significance in the bivariate analysis. Stratified by cardiogenic shock, a lower rate of all-cause mortality was also observed (33% vs 55%, p=0.15). The incidence of reinfarction was significantly lower in the late PCI group (0% vs 13%, p=0.004). In the multivariate analysis, adjusting for those who underwent PCI between 12-48 hours, revascularization of latecomers was independently associated with a significant reduction of mortality (adjusted OR 0.22; 95% CI 0.05-0.92; p=0.038). In a post-hoc analysis, late PCI showed a lower association with the composite outcome of all-cause mortality and reinfarction (adjusted OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.04-0.56; P=0.004). Conclusion(s) Our study demonstrates that implementing a reperfusion strategy in latecomers with inferior STEMI and RV dysfunction significantly reduces the risk of in-hospital mortality and reinfarction. This suggests a potential benefit of expanding the therapeutic window for PCI in this high-risk population. However, prospective studies are needed to conclude these preliminary findings.

Biomarkers of cardiohepatic syndrome in the cardiac intensive care unit

Abstract Introduction Non-cardiovascular end-organ dysfunction is an important determinant of outcomes in cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) patients. We examined the association between in-hospital mortality with the severity and extent of admission liver function test (LFT) abnormalities in a heterogeneous CICU population. Purpose We hypothesized that a greater severity or extent of LFT abnormalities would be associated with higher in-hospital mortality. Methods We included consecutive unique adult CICU patients with available data for one or more of the admission LFT values of interest. Admission laboratory values were defined as those closest to CICU admission. We used the NIH Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0 to categorize the severity of each LFT abnormality from Grade 0 (normal) to Grade 4 (life-threatening). We defined the extent of LFT abnormality as the number of individual LFTs meeting criteria for CTCAE Grade 1 or greater. The primary outcome of interest was all-cause in-hospital mortality. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) values for in-hospital mortality were estimated using logistic regression, before and after multivariable adjustment. Results Of 12,428 unique CICU patients, 5,144 were excluded due to a lack of available data for any admission LFT values. The remaining 7,284 patients comprised the final study population. Among patients with available data for each individual LFT, abnormal values were present in: AST, 2,743/5,733 (47.8%); ALT 1,576/5,512 (28.6%); ALK 611/3,684 (16.6%); and TB 898/5,155 (17.4%). A total of 864 (11.9%) patients died during hospitalization. In-hospital mortality was higher for patients with one or more LFTs meeting criteria for CTCAE Grade 1 or greater (17.9% vs. 6.4%, adjusted OR 1.54 [1.27-1.86], p &amp;lt;0.001). A stepwise increase in in-hospital mortality was observed with increasing CTCAE grade, both overall (adjusted OR 1.25 per each higher CTCAE grade [1.16-1.34], p &amp;lt;0.001); (Figure 1A), and for each individual LFT (Figure 1B). Conclusion Cardiohepatic syndrome is an important predictor of prognosis in CICU patients, as the extent and severity of LFT abnormalities are strongly associated with in-hospital mortality. This is the first large-scale study to examine the association between the magnitude of hepatic biomarker derangement with in-hospital mortality in unselected CICU patients. Patients with markedly elevated LFT values exhibited the highest risk of in-hospital mortality. This analysis advocates for the inclusion of commonly obtained LFTs in future risk-prediction tools for enhanced prognostication.

Nationwide analysis of in-hospital mortality and renal infarction trends following cardiac output assist device placement from 2017 to 2020

Abstract Background Cardiac output assist devices (COAD) have become a crucial therapeutic option for advanced heart failure patients. However, the clinical outcomes and complications associated with cardiac output device placement, especially in relation to renal health, remain a subject of concern. Purpose We aimed to examine temporal trends of in-hospital mortality and renal infarct (RI) among heart failure in patients who underwent placement of cardiac output assist devices, including intra-aortic balloon pumps and impeller-based devices, between 2017 and 2020. Methods The National Inpatient Sample was queried from 2017 to 2020 to identify all adults who underwent COAD using the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision codes. The Cochran-Armitage test was used to assess the linear trend of in-hospital RI among patients with COAD. Multivariate and univariate regression analysis was conducted to assess the yearly association of COAD with in-hospital mortality and RI with COAD. The Elixhauser comorbidity index was used to adjust for confounders. Linear logistic results are represented as adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with their respective 95% Confidence Intervals (CI). Results Of the 176,225 patients who underwent COAD, 385 (0.2%) experienced RI, predominantly male (72%) with a mean age of 58. Trend analysis showed an upward trend in RI (trend: 0.21%, p &amp;lt; 0.001) associated with COAD from 2017 to 2020. In 2018, 0.19% of patients had RI (OR = 3, 95% CI 2.1-6.1, p &amp;lt; 0.001), 0.23% in 2019 (OR = 4.6, 95% CI 2.5-7, p &amp;lt; 0.001), and 0.29% in 2020 (OR = 3.6, 95% CI 2.3-5.9, p &amp;lt; 0.001), compared to 0.17% in 2017 (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.1-4.7) demonstrated in Figure 1. Mortality among RI and COAD patients was 40% in 2017 (OR 3, 95% CI 1.2-8.9, p = 0.04), decreased to 24% in 2018 (OR 1.2, p = 0.69), but increased to 43% in 2019 (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.2-7.9, p = 0.01) and remained high at 42% in 2020 (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.3-6.9, p = 0.019) as illustrated in Table 1. Overall, in-hospital mortality was 38% (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.5-4, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusions Our study identified a rising trend in in-hospital RI rates among patients with cardiac output assist devices from 2017 to 2020, accompanied by a significant risk of in-hospital mortality. Despite these complications occurring in a small percentage of individuals, they highlight the critical need for vigilant monitoring and proactive management in this patient population.Figure 1

Comparative insights into type non-A non-B vs type B acute aortic syndromes and their blood pressure management: a monocentric, retrospective, 11-year study

Abstract Background Acute aortic syndromes (AAS) are classified either as type A, if the ascending aorta is involved, or as type B, if only the descending aorta is; AAS affecting the aortic arch, alone or in combination with the descending aorta, have recently been classified as type non-A-non-B (NANB). Few and discordant data are available about the differences between type B and type NANB AAS, especially in terms of presentation, management and prognosis. Little evidence also exists about the effects of blood pressure (BP) management, peaks and variability on in-hospital outcomes in such context. In particular, the largest international AAS registry suggests a comparable course and prognosis, while a recent meta-analysis indicates a poorer clinical outcome with higher rate of complications, need of invasive treatment and mortality in the case of type NANB AAS. Methods We conducted a monocentric, observational, analytical, retrospective registry study including all patients ≥ 18 years old admitted to our tertiary referral hospital with a diagnosis of type B or type NANB AAS from January 2011 to December 2021. Epidemiological, clinical, operative and outcome data were analyzed by comparing type B and type NANB AAS patients. We also focused on systolic and diastolic BP, in terms of both peak values as well as BP variability (BPV); BPV was defined as the difference between the peak and the through value on a certain day. Blood pressure variables were analyzed in relationship with mortality and the failure of an initial conservative management. Results 274 type B and 44 type NANB AAS patients were enrolled. The only significant differences between the two groups were a higher rate of pre-operative complications in type NANB patients (p=0.002) resulting in a higher rate of invasive management (p=0.005), particularly as failure of an initial conservative strategy (p=0.018). However, comparable rates of post-operative complications and in-hospital mortality (overall 7%) were observed. In the overall population, lower limb ischemia, ST segment depression, and post-operative visceral ischemia were associated with higher in-hospital mortality. Peri-aortic effusion was independently associated with failure of conservative management, whereas diagnosis of intramural hematoma (as opposed to other subtypes of AAS) appeared to be protective. Among all BP variables (including anti-hypertensive treatment intensity and daily systolic or diastolic BP peaks and variability), only peak systolic BP on day 5 was found to be non-independently associated with a higher risk of in-hospital mortality and failure of an initially conservative strategy. Conclusions In our study type NANB AAS were more often complicated and treated invasively than type B AAS, while having the same rates of post-operative complications and overall mortality. BP peaks had only a minor effect on outcomes, while BPV and BP management intensity did not have any significant impact.OutcomesBlood Pressure

Extraction of leadless and tranvenous pacemakers: occurrence, causes and complications from a national US database

Abstract Background Leadless pacemakers are usually implanted as second line treatment in patients with increased risk for infection, difficult or obstructed vascular access, and other causes preventing an implantation of a traditional pacemaker. Data regarding the occurrence and need for leadless pacemaker extraction (LLPE) are currently absent and have not been compared to outcomes of transvenous pacemaker extraction (TLE). Moreover, leadless pacemaker implantation during TLE for active infection in being advocated without backing data. We aimed to assess the rate, causes and complications of device extraction in a large US national database. Methods Patients undergoing LLPE and TLE in the USA between 2016 and 2019 were identified from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database using ICD-10 codes. Clinical and sociodemographic data, in-hospital complications, outcomes and mortality were collected. Baseline characteristics and outcomes were compared between patients undergoing TLE and LLPE. Multivariate logistic regression identified predictors of in-hospital complications. Results An estimated total of 55,235 patients underwent an extraction procedure during the study period. 54,050 (97.8%) patients underwent TLE and 1,185 (2.1%) underwent LLPE. Patients who underwent LLPE were older, more likely females and had a higher comorbidity rate (Charlson-Deyo-Comorbidity-Index; 46% vs 39%, p&amp;lt;0.001). Etiology for LLPE was identified and reported only in 25.7% of cases, however infection causing extraction occurred in 11.4% of LLPE cases and 8% had LLPE due to device dysfunction. Main etiologies for TLE were infections (40.9%) and lead dysfunction (29.4%). In comparison to TLE, LLPE resulted in higher in-hospital mortality (7.2% vs. 3%, p&amp;lt;0.001) and vascular complications (2.5% vs. 1.0%, p&amp;lt;0.001). Multivariable analysis confirmed that LLPE was associated with more than double the risk of in-hospital mortality. Conclusion Extraction of leadless pacemakers due to infection is not rare. Patients undergoing LLPE have higher prevalence of vascular complications and in-hospital mortality in a US nationwide, all-comer registry.

Prognostic significance of the estimated pulse wave velocity in critically ill patients with coronary heart disease

Abstract Background The estimated pulse wave velocity (ePWV) has emerged as an alternative measurement of arterial stiffness which has been suggested as a potential marker for mortality and cardiovascular risk. Nonetheless, its prognostic significance in critically ill patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) remains uncertain. Methods Patients from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) were grouped into quartiles according to the ePWV levels. We conducted logistic and Cox regression analyses to examine the association between ePWV and both in-hospital and 1-year all-cause mortality among critically ill patients with CHD. Additionally, we employed restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis to explore the relationship between ePWV as a continuous variable and mortality. Results A total of 11001 patients (men: 63.6%, age: 71.94 [IQR: 62.69-81.31]) were included in this study. In-hospital mortality and 1-year mortality rates were 9.1% and 25.1%, respectively. Multivariable logistic regression models demonstrated that ePWV was independently associated with an elevated risk of in-hospital mortality (OR 1.27; 95%CI [1.14-1.41]; p&amp;lt;0.001) and 1-year mortality (OR 1.49; 95% CI [1.38-1.60]; p&amp;lt;0.001]. The restricted cubic splines regression model revealed a linear relationship between ePWV and both in-hospital and 1-year mortality (p for non-linearity = 0.098 and p for non-linearity = 0.156, respectively). Conclusion Our findings indicate a linear association between ePWV levels and short- and long-term mortality in critically ill patients with CHD.

In-hospital outcomes of acute myocardial infarction patients without standard modifiable cardiovascular risk factors across varying body mass index

Abstract Background Individuals who present with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in the absence of standard modifiable cardiovascular risk factors (i.e., SMuRF-less) seem to have a significantly increased risk of mortality; however, it remains unclear whether the ‘SMuRF paradox’ would be influenced by patients’ baseline body mass index (BMI) status. Purpose To assess the disparities in the prevalence and prognostic implications of SMuRF-less among patients with newly diagnosed AMI across varying body mass index (BMI). Methods Using data from the Improving Care for Cardiovascular Disease in China–Acute Coronary Syndrome (CCC–ACS) project, we retrospectively analyzed AMI patients with and without SMuRFs and categorized their baseline BMI as underweight (&amp;lt;18.5kg/m2), normal weight (18.5-24kg/m2), overweight (24-28kg/m2), and obese (&amp;gt;28kg/m2). The primary outcome was in-hospital all-cause mortality. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate BMI-stratified associations between SMuRF-less and each outcome, sequentially adjusting for demographic, clinical characteristics, and prevention strategies. Results Between 2014 and 2019, 44,538 adult patients hospitalized for first-presentation AMI were included, of which 4,454 (10.0%) were SMuRF-less. The incidence of SMuRF-less declined from 16.2% to 6.5% as BMI increased by category, and it prevailed more frequently among females and elders regardless of their BMI status. During the median hospital stay of 9 days, SMuRF-less patients had a significant increase in in-hospital mortality than patients with one or more SMuRF (2.1% vs. 1.0%, adjusted odds ratio [OR], 1.750 [95% CI 1.057–2.896], P&amp;lt;0.001). The highest mortality rate was observed in the SMuRF-less underweight group (3.5%). Took ≥1 SMuRF and obese as the reference group as they presented the finest outcome, SMuRF-less underweight group exhibited the highest increase in mortality (3.5% vs 0.5%, adjusted odds ratio [OR], 3.854 [95% CI 2.130–6.973], P&amp;lt;0.001). However, interaction analyses provided no evidence that BMI significantly modifies SMuRF-less’s association with in-hospital mortality (P for interaction=0.247). Conclusion Approximately one-tenth of first-presentation AMI patients had no SMuRF, who were more frequently women, elders, and underweight. Compared with those with at least one SMuRF, SMuRF-less patients have a significantly higher risk of in-hospital mortality, especially in those underweight, while in-hospital survival was the most favorable among ≥1 SMuRF and obese patients.

Association of TRI-SCORE with clinical outcomes after percutaneous tricuspid annuloplasty

Abstract Background Significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) has been associated with excess mortality and heart failure. Functional TR is associated to progressive right ventricular remodeling and dysfunction, leading to comorbidities which elevate the perioperative mortality of isolated tricuspid regurgitation surgery, with an in-hospital mortality between 6-10% according to series. Transcatheter tricuspid annuloplasty is a promising therapeutic alternative in patients with high surgical risk. Appropriate risk stratification and patient selection is essential to ensure benefits of this intervention. European System for Cardiac Operative Risk Evaluation (EUROSCORE) II and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) score are widely spread in-hospital mortality risk scores in valvular surgery. TRI-SCORE is focused on isolated TR surgery; nevertheless, application of these scores to transcatheter annuloplasty has not been specifically studied yet. Purpose To analyze the utility of surgical scores (EUROSCORE-II, STS and TRISCORE) to predict all-cause mortality in patients undergoing transcatheter tricuspid annuloplasty. Methods A cohort of 49 patients with significant TR was followed up prospectively after the transcatheter tricuspid annuloplasty with Cardioband between 2019 and January 2024 (mean follow-up 18,43 ± 10,95 months). Every score was evaluated in all patients. According to the TRI-SCORE –– 6 points was the 75-percentile and taken as cutoff value –– we divided the cohort in two groups: a low score group (≤6 points) and a high score group (&amp;gt;6 points). Survival was analyzed in the whole cohort and in both subgroups. The curves are depicted using Kaplan-Meier method and were compared using log rank test. Results The study included 49 patients, with mean age of 77,6 ± 7,67 years, 77,6% being women. All the patients had a secondary etiology of TR and 46,9% massive or torrential TR before the intervention. 49% had previous left heart surgery. The median surgical risk values are represented in Table 1. All-cause mortality during follow-up occurred in 9 patients (18,3%). Survival analysis based on EUROSCORE II and STS did not find statically significant association (Table 1). TRI-SCORE had a hazard ratio (HR) of 1,59, also without statically significant association (CI 0.93 – 2.71; p 0.089). Survival analysis in high score group found an increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR 8.5; p 0.025). According to our findings TRI-SCORE &amp;gt; 6 before the procedure confers significant risk of all-cause death (log rank p = 0.009). Figure 1. Conclusions Transcatheter tricuspid annuloplasty is a promising therapy for patients with significant TR regurgitation who are at high surgical risk. According to our findings, TRI-SCORE is an appropriate scoring model to predict all-cause mortality after percutaneous annuloplasty with band. It is not so for other surgical risk scores. Extended follow-up and broader experienced are needed to corroborate these results.Surgical scores: median and mortalitySurvival curves TRI-SCORE