Significant Mortality Factor Research Articles

Risk Factors of COVID-19 associated mucormycosis in Iranian patients: a multicenter study

BackgroundTo evaluate the demographic, clinical, and prognostic characteristics of patients diagnosed with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) in Iranian patients.MethodsThis prospective observational study was conducted in 8 tertiary referral ophthalmology centers in different provinces of Iran during the fifth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. All patients were subjected to complete history taking and comprehensive ophthalmological examination and underwent standard accepted treatment strategy based on the disease stage.ResultsTwo hundred seventy-four CAM patients (most were males (150, 54.7%)) with a mean age of 56.8 ± 12.44 years were enrolled. Patients with a history of cigarette smoking (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 4.36), Intensive Care Unit admission (ICU) (AOR = 16.26), higher stage of CAM (AOR = 2.72), and receiving endoscopic debridement and transcutaneous retrobulbar amphotericin B (AOR = 3.30) had higher odds of mortality. History of taking systemic corticosteroids during COVID-19 was significantly associated with reduced odds of mortality (AOR = 0.16). Generalized Estimating Equations analysis showed that the visual acuity of deceased patients (LogMAR: 3.71, 95% CI: 3.04–4.38) was worse than that of patients who were discharged from the hospital (LogMAR: 2.42, 95% CI: 2.16–2.68) (P < 0.001).ConclusionsThis study highlights significant risk factors for mortality in patients with CAM, such as cigarette smoking, ICU admission, advanced CAM stages, receiving transcutaneous retrobulbar amphotericin B and worser visual acuity. Conversely, a history of systemic corticosteroid use during COVID-19 was linked to reduced mortality. These findings underscore the critical need for early identification and targeted interventions for high-risk CAM patients to improve clinical outcomes.

New onset status epilepticus and its long-term outcome: A cohort study

PurposeNew onset status epilepticus (NOSE), a subtype of status epilepticus, is a neurological emergency associated with significant morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to analyze the phenotypic spectrum and outcomes of patients presenting with NOSE. MethodsThis prospective and retrospective descriptive study included patients presenting with NOSE over a 10-year period. Data collected included patient demographics, phenotypic characteristics of SE and its etiology, Status Epilepticus Severity Score (STESS), SE classification Axis-II, and Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) scores at admission and discharge. Functional outcomes and seizure status were assessed at least 6 months post-discharge. Prognostic factors for mortality and the development of epilepsy were also analyzed. ResultsA total of 208 patients were included, with a mean age of 41.97 ± 21.66 years, and a male predominance (57.1 %). Focal to bilateral tonic-clonic seizures were observed in 47.5 % of patients. The etiology was acute symptomatic in 35.57 % and remote symptomatic in 24 %. The median hospital stay was 4 days (range: 2.25–10.75 days). The mortality rate was 26.5 %, and 23 % of patients developed epilepsy with a median follow-up of 9 months. Higher age (≥ 50 years), elevated STESS, ICU admission, use of anesthetic agents, refractory status epilepticus (RSE), and new-onset refractory status epilepticus (NORSE) were significant risk factors for mortality (p<0.05). The development of epilepsy was associated with a higher number of antiseizure medications (ASM) at discharge, ICU admission, use of anesthetic agents, RSE, and NORSE (p<0.05). ConclusionNOSE is a neurological emergency with a variable etiology and significant long-term consequences. Approximately one-fourth of patients presenting with NOSE died, and another quarter developed epilepsy during a median follow-up of 9 months. Identifying and addressing the predictors of mortality and epilepsy development following NOSE may improve long-term outcomes.

Feasibility of veno-arterial extracorporeal life support in awake patients with cardiogenic shock.

This study sought to demonstrate outcomes of veno-arterial extracorporeal life support (VA-ECLS) in non-intubated ("awake") patients with cardiogenic shock, as very few studies have investigated safety and feasibility in this population. This was a retrospective review of 394 consecutive VA-ECLS patients at our institution from 2017 to 2021. We excluded patients cannulated for indications definitively associated with intubation. Patients were stratified by intubation status at time of cannulation and baseline differences were balanced by inverse probability of treatment weighting. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality while secondary outcomes included adverse events during ECLS and destination at discharge. Out of 135 patients in the final cohort, 79 were intubated and 56 were awake at time of cannulation. All awake patients underwent percutaneous femoral cannulation with technical success of 100% without intubation. Indications for VA-ECLS in awake patients included acute decompensated heart failure (64.3%), pulmonary hypertension or massive pulmonary embolism (12.5%), myocarditis (8.9%), and acute myocardial infarction (5.4%). After adjustment, awake and intubated patients had similar ECLS duration (7 vs 6 days, p = 0.19), in-hospital mortality (39.6% vs 51.7%, p = 0.28), and rates of various adverse events. Intubation status was not a significant risk factor for 90-day mortality (HR [95% CI]: 1.26 [0.64, 2.45], p = 0.51) in multivariable analysis. Heart transplantation (15.1% vs 4.9%) and ventricular assist device (17.4% vs 2.2%) were more common destinations at discharge in awake patients than intubated patients (p = 0.02). Awake VA-ECLS is safe and feasible with comparable outcomes as intubated counterparts in select cardiogenic shock patients.

Hypertension-Related Status and Influencing Factors among Chinese Children and Adolescents Aged 6~17 Years: Data from China Nutrition and Health Surveillance (2015-2017).

Hypertension is currently highly prevalent worldwide and serves as one of the significant risk factors for chronic diseases and mortality. Adult hypertension can be traced back to, as well as prevented starting in, childhood and adolescence. However, due to the lack of surveillance among children and adolescents, the prevalence and influencing factors of hypertension-related conditions have not been well described. Hence, a total of 67,947 children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 from China Nutrition and Health Surveillance (2015-2017) were enrolled to describe the weighted average blood pressure level and the weighted prevalence of hypertension, pre-hypertension, and their distribution and to analyze the risk factors for hypertension and pre-hypertension among Chinese children and adolescents at a nationwide level. In summary, the weighted mean values of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were 111.8 (95% CI, 111.2-112.5) mmHg and 66.5 (95% CI, 66.0-67.0) mmHg, respectively. The weighted prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension was 24.9% and 17.1%, respectively. Moreover, general obesity, overweight, and central obesity served as risk factors for hypertension and pre-hypertension among Chinese children and adolescents. The current study indicated that the prevalence of hypertension and pre-hypertension in Chinese children and adolescents was at a high level. Moreover, blood pressure screening should be further intensified for children and adolescents at a high risk of being overweight or obese.

Pulmonary Artery Banding and Arch Repair vs Norwood for Unbalanced Atrioventricular Canal Defect

BackgroundThe outcomes of single-ventricle palliation in unbalanced atrioventricular canal defect with coarctation of aorta (uAVC+CoA) have not been well studied. Systemic ventricle outflow tract obstruction has a propensity to develop in these patients after aortic arch repair with pulmonary artery banding (arch-PAB), which may adversely affect survival and Fontan candidacy. MethodsA retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent single-ventricle palliation for uAVC+CoA from 2000 to 2022. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on initial palliation: (1) arch-PAB and (2) Norwood procedure. Demographic and clinical characteristics were analyzed and compared along with survival data. ResultsStage 1 palliation for uAVC+CoA was performed in 41 patients. Arch-PAB was performed in 14 infants and Norwood in 27 infants. Arch-PAB patients had more chromosomal abnormalities (28.6 vs 7.4%, P < .009) and less severe systemic ventricle outflow tract obstruction on baseline echocardiogram (0.0 vs 70.4%, P < .001). Survival to stage 3 palliation was lower for the arch-PAB group (28.6% vs 66.6%, P = .02). Arch-PAB remained a significant risk factor for mortality (hazard ratio, 2.93; 95% CI, 1.05-8.53; P = .04) after adjusting for chromosomal abnormalities and atrioventricular valve regurgitation. After arch-PAB, systemic ventricle outflow tract obstruction was diagnosed in 13 of 14 patients. Echocardiography underestimated the degree of outflow tract obstruction in 10 of 13 arch-PAB patients. ConclusionsArch-PAB has worse outcomes than Norwood for uAVC+CoA. Systemic ventricle outflow tract obstruction develops in almost all patients after arch-PAB. Outflow tract obstruction is underestimated by the echocardiogram and requires a high index of suspicion, along with advanced imaging, to ensure timely diagnosis and management.

Risk of mortality associated to chronic kidney disease in patients with complete left bundle branch block

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with cardiac conduction defects and is a strong risk factor for heart failure. Complete left bundle branch block (cLBBB), a cardiac conduction abnormality, may have an unfavorable effect on ventricular mechanical synchrony and lead to the progression of heart failure. Once heart failure develops, it seems to act together with underlying CKD in a vicious circle. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the influence of CKD in patients with cLBBB by assessing the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). We examined a hospital-based sample of 416 adult patients with cLBBB from 2010 to 2013. The eGFR was calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the hazard ratio for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality. A total of 416 adult patients with a mean age of 71 ± 13 years were enrolled. The median follow-up period was 3.6 years. After adjusting for clinical, electrocardiographic parameters, and medication use, cox regression analysis showed that total mortality was significantly associated with older age (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 1.03, 95% CI = 1.01–1.05, p = 0.002), presence of congestive heart failure (HR = 2.39, 95% CI = 1.63–3.49, p < 0.001), advanced CKD (HR = 2.48, 95% CI = 1.71–3.59, p < 0.001), higher HR (HR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.01–1.03, p < 0.001) and without use of ACEI/ARB (HR = 0.59, 95% CI = 0.41–0.85, p = 0.005) were independent predictors of the total mortality. Multivariate Cox hazard regression analysis demonstrated that, in comparison to patients lacking cLBBB, the coexistence of CKD (eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) among those with LBBB significantly heightened the risks of both total mortality (HR ratio of 5.01 vs. 2.40) and CV death (HR ratio of 61.78 vs. 14.41) even following adjustment for clinical covariates and ECG parameters. In summary, within patients exhibiting cLBBB, the presence of CKD serves as a significant risk factor for all-cause mortality.

Assessment of systemic immune-inflammatory index and other inflammatory parameters in predicting mortality in patients with acute cholecystitis: A retrospective observational study

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of the systemic immune- inflammatory (SII) index and other inflammatory parameters in predicting mortality among patients with acute cholecystitis (AC). Methods: 279 Patients presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain and diagnosis of AC between September 2021 and September 2023 were included in the study. Demographic data, laboratory parameters, clinical follow-ups, and outcomes of the patients were recorded. Results: The mean age of the patients was (55.0±16.3) years and 36.6% were male. 63.8% Had gallbladder/choledochal stones and 49.5% underwent surgery. The mortality rate was 6.1%. Advanced age (P=0.170) and prolonged hospitalization (P=0.011) were statistically significant risk factors for mortality. Decreased lymphocyte count (P=0.020) and increased C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (P=0.033) were found to be risk factors for mortality. According to the mortality predictor ROC analysis results, the cut-off for SII index was 3 138 (AUC=0.817, sensitivity=70.5%, specificity=84.7%), the cut-off for neutrophil count was 15.28×103/ mm3 (AUC=0.761, sensitivity=52.9%, specificity=95.0%), the cut-off for leukocyte count was 19.0×103/mm3 (AUC= 0.714, sensitivity=52.9%, specificity=98.0%), cut-off for CRP was 74.55 (AUC=0.758, sensitivity=70.5%, specificity=79.0%), cut-off for aspartate transaminase (AST) was 33.0 IU/L (AUC=0.658, sensitivity=82.3%, specificity=50.3%). Conclusions: The SII index may be a good predictor of mortality with high sensitivity and specificity. Elevated levels of neutrophils, leukocytes, CRP, and AST are other inflammatory parameters that can be used to predict mortality associated with AC.

Comparative analysis of long-term outcomes in thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm repair between Marfan syndrome patients and non–Marfan syndrome patients

BackgroundA consensus on the management of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) has not yet been established. This study aimed to compare the long-term outcomes after open TAAA repair in patients with and without MFS. MethodsThis retrospective study examined 230 consecutive patients who underwent TAAA repair between 2012 and 2022, including of 69 MFS patients and 161 non-MFS patients. The primary endpoint was long-term mortality. The secondary endpoint was a composite of early adverse events, including early mortality, permanent stroke, permanent paraplegia, permanent renal failure, and reoperation. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to assess the impact of MFS on early composite adverse events, and univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to evaluate the association between MFS and overall mortality. ResultsCompared with non-MFS patients, MFS patients were younger (mean, 31.9 ± 8.5 years vs 44.8 ± 12.3 years; P < .001), had less comorbid coronary artery disease (0 vs 8.1%; P = .034), more frequently underwent Crawford extent III repair (56.5% vs 34.8%; P = .002) and applied normothermic iliac perfusion (91.3% vs 81.4%; P = .057). There was no significant difference in the rate of early composite adverse events between the MFS and non-MFS groups (23.2% vs 14.3%; P = .099), which was verified by multivariable logistic regression analyses with multiple models. Overall mortality was significantly lower in the MFS group compared to the non-MFS group (P = .026, log-rank test), with 1-, 5-, and 10-year cumulative mortality of 4.4% versus 8.7%, 8.1% versus 17.2%, and 20.9% versus 36.4%, respectively. Multivariable Cox regression analyses across different models further confirmed MFS as a significant protective factor for overall mortality (model 1: hazard ratio [HR], 0.31; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.13-0.73; P = .007; model 2: HR, 0.32, 95% CI, 0.13-0.75; P = .009; model 3: HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.15-0.95; P = .039). ConclusionsDespite varying risk profiles, MFS patients undergoing open TAAA repair can achieve comparable or even superior outcomes to non-MFS patients with tailored surgical strategies, meticulous perioperative care, and close follow-up surveillance, especially in the long term.

The Association between Cardiac Arrest and Mortality in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Cardiogenic Shock.

The impact of cardiac arrest (CA) at admission on the prognosis of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock (CS) remains a subject of debate. We conducted a retrospective study at West China Hospital from 2018 to 2021, enrolling 247 patients with AMI complicated by CS (AMI-CS). Patients were categorized into CA and non-CA groups based on their admission status. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed, with 30-day and 1-year mortality as the primary endpoints. Kaplan-Meier plots were constructed, and concordance (C)-indices of the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Event (GRACE) score, Intra-aortic Balloon Pump in Cardiogenic Shock (IABP-SHOCK) II score, and IABP-SHOCK II score with CA were calculated. Among the enrolled patients, 39 experienced CA and received cardiopulmonary resuscitation at admission. The 30-day and 1-year mortality rates were 40.9% and 47.0%, respectively. Neither univariate nor multivariate Cox regression analyses identified CA as a significant risk factor for 30-day and 1-year mortality. In C-statistics, the GRACE score exhibited a moderate effect (C-indices were 0.69 and 0.67, respectively), while the IABP-SHOCK II score had a better predictive performance (C-indices were 0.79 and 0.76, respectively) for the 30-day and 1-year mortality. Furthermore, CA did not enhance the predictive value of the IABP-SHOCK II score for 30-day (p = 0.864) and 1-year mortality (p = 0.888). Cardiac arrest at admission did not influence the survival of patients with AMI-CS. Active resuscitation should be prioritized for patients with AMI-CS, regardless of the presence of cardiac arrest.

Association between erectile dysfunction and the prevalence and prognosis of hyperglycemia in adults in the USA based on NHANES 2001–2004

Prior research has demonstrated that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and premature mortality. Few studies have examined the link between ED and hyperglycemia, and the predictive power of ED for mortality in individuals with hyperglycemia. A cohort of 1584 adults diagnosed with hyperglycemia, consisting of 583 individuals with diabetes and 1001 individuals with prediabetes, was selected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2001 and 2004. The study found a positive correlation between severe ED and hyperglycemia (OR, 2.03; 95% CI 1.53–2.68), while no significant relationship was observed between severe ED and CVD events (OR, 1.60; 95% CI 0.91–2.80). Additionally, no statistical association was found between diabetes or prediabetes status and ED. After multivariable adjustments, severe ED was found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (HR, 1.67; 95% CI 1.16–2.39), while no significant association was observed between severe ED and CVD mortality (HR, 1.92; 95% CI 0.92–3.98). Our study indicates a significant correlation between ED and hyperglycemia status. Hyperglycemia Individuals with ED generally exhibited an unfavorable prognosis for mortality due to all causes and CVD, particularly among those with low levels of physical activity.

Prognostic value of nutrition and immune‑related biomarkers in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy.

The ability of nutrition and immune-related biomarkers to predict outcomes in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) treated with neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery remains controversial due to the lack of evidence regarding the accuracy and reliability of these biomarkers in predicting outcomes for such patients. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the prognostic potential of nutrition and immune-related biomarkers in patients with LARC who underwent chemoradiotherapy followed by curative surgery. The clinical data of patients with LARC treated with neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery between January 2010 and December 2019 were analyzed. In total, 214 consecutive patients were enrolled into the present study, who were then categorized into low and high prognostic nutritional index (PNI) groups. The X-tile 3.6.1 program was used to calculate and then determine the optimal cut-off values for PNI. Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were compared between the low and high PNI groups. Cox regression analysis demonstrated that low PNI and high post-chemoradiotherapy carcinoembryonic antigen levels were significantly associated with reduced disease-free survival and overall survival. Specifically, a low PNI was associated with inferior 5-year DFS (P=0.025) and OS (P=0.018). These findings suggest that amongst the nutritional and immune-related biomarkers, PNI is a significant predictive factor for disease recurrence and mortality in patients with LARC treated with neoadjuvant therapy followed by surgery.

Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Mortality and Clinical Outcomes in Hemodialysis Patients.

This study analyzed 550 hemodialysis patients, 469 unvaccinated and 81 vaccinated against COVID-19, to assess the impact on infection rates, mortality, and clinical/laboratory parameters. Gender distribution was similar (p = 0.209), but the vaccinated group's median age was significantly lower (p = 0.005). Hospitalization rates showed no significant difference (p = 0.987), while mortality was lower in the vaccinated group (p = 0.041). Only uric acid levels were significantly higher in the vaccinated group (p = 0.009); other parameters, including creatinine and B-type natriuretic peptide, showed no significant differences. Age was an independent predictor of mortality (HR = 1.07, p < 0.001). Peak mortality occurred in December 2022 and January 2023, predominantly among unvaccinated patients. Although vaccination lowered mortality, it did not significantly affect long-term survival rates (p = 0.308). Logistic regression identified age and dialysis duration as significant mortality factors. Monthly death counts indicated higher mortality among unvaccinated patients during peak pandemic months, suggesting that vaccination provides some protection, though no significant long-term survival benefit was found.

Frailty and its association with long-term mortality among community-dwelling older adults aged 75 years and over

BackgroundFrailty, a significant risk factor for adverse outcomes and mortality, poses an emerging challenge with profound implications for public health and clinical practice. The measurement of frailty offers potential enhancements in healthcare services for older adults. The prevalence of frailty and its association with long-term mortality in a nationwide, unselected population of community-dwelling older adults, particularly those aged 75 and over, has not been previously studied on a large scale in Israel.MethodsA retrospective cohort study was conducted at Meuhedet Health Maintenance Organization, Israel’s third largest healthcare service provider, serving 1,276,000 people (13.8% of Israelis). The prevalence of frailty and its association with all-cause mortality were studied among older adults aged 75 years and over who were followed for 2–8 years. Frailty, defined by the cumulative deficit method, utilized clinical data from the preceding 10-year period, comprising 28 chronic diseases and age-related health deficits.ResultsThe cohort included 43,737 older adults, with a median age of 77 years (IQR 75–82 years); among them, 19,300 (44.1%) were males. Overall, 19,396 (44.3%) older adults were frail: 12,260 (28.0%) mildly frail, 5,533 (12.7%) moderately frail and 1,603 (3.7%) severely frail. During the follow-up period 15,064 (34.4%) older adults died: 4,782 (39.0%) mildly frail, 3,016 (54.5%) moderately frail and 1,080 (67.4%) severely frail. Cox regression analysis demonstrated that mortality was associated with severe frailty (HR 2.63, 95%CI 2.45–2.80), moderate frailty (HR 2.05, 95%CI 1.96–2.14), and mild frailty (HR 1.45, 95%CI 1.39–1.51), independent of age, gender, and population sector. Among patients aged 90 years and over, no significant differences in cumulative survival were found between those with moderate and severe frailty (p = 0.408).ConclusionsFrailty is prevalent among community-dwelling Israeli older adults aged 75 years and over, and it is associated with long-term mortality. Considering its association with long-term mortality across frailty levels until the age of 90, early identification and intervention for frailty are recommended within this population. Policymakers should consider the use of the cumulative deficit method for evaluating frailty at both the population health and clinical levels.

Predictors of Intrahospital Mortality in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage after Endovascular Embolization.

Background and Objectives: Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (ASAH) is defined as bleeding in the subarachnoid space caused by the rupture of a cerebral aneurysm. About 11% of people who develop ASAH die before receiving medical treatment, and 40% of patients die within four weeks of being admitted to hospital. There are limited data on single-center experiences analyzing intrahospital mortality in ASAH patients treated with an endovascular approach. Given that, we wanted to share our experience and explore the risk factors that influence intrahospital mortality in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms treated with endovascular coil embolization. Materials and Methods: Our study was designed as a clinical, observational, retrospective cross-sectional study. It was performed at the Department for Radiology, University Clinical Center Kragujevac in Kragujevac, Serbia. The study inclusion criteria were ≥18 years, admitted within 24 h of symptoms onset, acute SAH diagnosed on CT, aneurysm on DSA, and treated by endovascular coil embolization from January 2014 to December 2018 at our institution. Results: A total of 66 patients were included in the study-48 (72.7%) women and 18 (27.3%) men, and 19.7% of the patients died during hospitalization. After adjustment, the following factors were associated with in-hospital mortality: a delayed ischemic neurological deficit, the presence of blood in the fourth cerebral ventricle, and an elevated urea value after endovascular intervention, increasing the chances of mortality by 16.3, 12, and 12.6 times. Conclusions: Delayed cerebral ischemia and intraventricular hemorrhage on initial head CT scan are strong predictors of intrahospital mortality in ASAH patients. Also, it is important to monitor kidney function and urea levels in ASAH patients, considering that elevated urea values after endovascular aneurysm embolization have been shown to be a significant risk factor for intrahospital mortality.

Comparison of Conventional versus Modified Preperitoneal Pelvic Packing in Patients with Bleeding Pelvic Fractures: A Single-Center Retrospective Pilot Study.

Background: Bleeding pelvic fractures have high mortality rates, primarily due to severe hemorrhage. Treatment options include mechanical stabilization based on preperitoneal pelvic packing (PPP), resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta, and angioembolization (AE). The bilateral preperitoneal approach, which uses three pads on each side, is the conventional PPP method. We aimed to compare the bilateral preperitoneal approach with a modified approach, involving selectively packing only heavily bleeding areas, in terms of clinical outcomes and mortality risks. Methods: We included patients who underwent PPP and compared the outcomes between conventional (three sponges placed on each side) and modified PPP (selective packing of critical areas). The primary outcome was 30-day mortality; the secondary outcomes included 24 h mortality, pelvic complications, and transfusion requirements. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine risk factors for 30-day and 24 h mortality. Results: Among the 47 included patients, 19 and 28 underwent conventional and modified PPP, respectively. There were no significant between-group differences in the 24 h (26.3% vs. 42.9%, p = 0.247) and 30-day mortality rates (47.4% vs. 60.7%, p = 0.366). Using univariate and multivariate analyses, initial lactate levels and the decision to perform AE were found to be significant risk factors for mortality. However, the selected PPP method was not a risk factor for 30-day mortality (odds ratio [OR], 2.22; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.27-18.26; p = 0.457) or 24 hr mortality (OR, 1.77; 95% CI, 0.24-13.19; p = 0.557). Conclusions: The modified PPP method may be considered in patients with bleeding pelvic fractures for effective bleeding control while minimizing potential complications associated with the conventional PPP.

Long-term mortality after isolated coronary artery bypass grafting and risk factors for mortality

BackgroundPatients requiring coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) have multiple co-morbidities which need to be considered in totality when determining surgical risks. The objective of this study is to evaluate short-term and long-term mortality rates of CABG surgery, as well as to identify the most significant risk factors for mortality after isolated CABG.MethodsAll patients with complete dataset who underwent isolated CABG between January 2008 and December 2017 were included. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression was performed to determine the risk factors for all-cause mortality. Classification and regression tree analysis was performed to identify the relative importance of these risk factors.Results3,573 patients were included in the study. Overall mortality rate was 25.7%. In-hospital mortality rate was 1.62% overall. 30-day, 1-year, 5-year, 10-year and 14.5-year mortality rates were 1.46%, 2.94%, 9.89%, 22.79% and 36.30% respectively. Factors associated with death after adjustment for other risk factors were older age, lower body mass index (BMI), hypertension, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pre-operative renal failure on dialysis, higher last pre-operative creatinine level, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), heart failure, lower left ventricular ejection fraction and New York Heart Association class II, III and IV. Additionally, female gender and logistic EuroSCORE were associated with death on univariate Cox analysis, but not associated with death after adjustment with multivariate Cox analysis. Using CART analysis, the strongest predictor of mortality was pre-operative eGFR < 46.9, followed by logistic EuroSCORE ≥ 2.4.ConclusionPoorer renal function, quantified by a lower eGFR, is the best predictor of post-CABG mortality. Amongst other risk factors, logistic EuroSCORE, age, diabetes and BMI had a relatively greater impact on mortality. Patients with chronic kidney disease stage 3B and above are at highest risk for mortality. We hope these findings heighten awareness to optimise current medical therapy in preserving renal function upon diagnosis of any atherosclerotic disease and risk factors contributing to coronary artery disease.

Long- and short-term outcomes after transvenous lead extraction in a large single-centre patient cohort using the clinical frailty scale as a risk assessment tool

Background and aimsThe rate of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) implantations and the need for transvenous lead extraction (TLE) are growing worldwide. This study examined a large Swedish cohort with the aim of identifying possible predictors of post-TLE mortality with special focus on systemic infection patients and frailty. MethodsThis was a single centre study. Records of patients undergoing TLE between 2010 and 2018 were analysed. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare baseline characteristics of patients with different indications and identify risk factors of 30-day and 1-year mortality. ResultsA total of 893 patients were identified. Local infection was the dominant indication and pacemaker was the most common CIED. The mean age was 65 ± 16 years, 73 % were male and median follow-up was 3.9 years. Heart failure was the most common comorbidity. Patients with systemic infection were significantly older, frailer and had significantly higher levels of comorbidities. 30-day mortality and 1-year mortality rates were 2.5 % and 9.9 %, respectively. Systemic infection and chronic kidney disease (CKD) were independently associated with 30-day and 1-year mortality. Clinical frailty scale (CFS) 5–7 correlated independently with 1-year mortality in the entire cohort and specifically in systemic infection patients. CKD, cardiac resynchronization therapy and CFS 5–7 were significant risk factors for long-term mortality (death >1 year after TLE) in multivariable analysis. ConclusionsSystemic infection, kidney failure in addition to the novel parameter of frailty were associated with post-TLE all-cause mortality. These risk factors should be considered during pre-procedure risk stratification to improve post-TLE outcomes.

Socioeconomic status and cardiovascular mortality in over 170,000 cancer survivors.

Cardiovascular health is acknowledged as a crucial concern among cancer survivors. Socioeconomic status (SES) is an essential but often neglected risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We conducted this study to identify the relationship between SES and CVD mortality in cancer survivors. Using the National Health Insurance Service-National Health Examinee database, we identified cancer survivors diagnosed and surviving beyond 5 years post-diagnosis. SES was assessed based on insurance premiums and classified into 5 groups. The primary outcome was overall CVD mortality. This study analyzed 170555 individuals (mean age 60.7±11.9 years, 57.8% female). A gradual increase in risk was observed across SES groups: adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) for overall CVD mortality were 1.15 (1.04-1.26), 1.28 (1.15-1.44), 1.31 (1.18-1.46), and 2.13 (1.30-3.49) for the second, third, and fourth quartile, and medical aid group (the lowest SES group) compared to the highest SES group, respectively (p for trend<0.001). The lowest SES group with hypertension exhibited a 3.4-fold higher risk of CVD mortality compared to the highest SES group without hypertension. Interaction analyses revealed that low SES synergistically interacts with hypertension, heightening the risk of CVD mortality (synergy index 1.62). This study demonstrates a significant correlation between low SES and increased CVD mortality among cancer survivors. Particularly, the lowest SES group, when combined with hypertension, significantly escalates CVD mortality. Our findings underscore the critical importance of recognizing SES as a significant risk factor for CVD mortality in this population of cancer survivors.

Effects of Concomitant Traumatic Spinal Cord and Brain Injury on In-Hospital Mortality: A Retrospective Analysis of a Nationwide Trauma Registry in Japan.

Isolated traumatic spinal cord injury (t-SCI) and traumatic brain injury (TBI) represent significant public health concerns, resulting in long-term disabilities and necessitating sophisticated care, particularly when occurring concurrently. The impact of these combined injuries, while crucial in trauma management, on clinical, socioeconomic, and health care outcomes is largely unknown. To address this gap, our secondary retrospective cohort study used data from the Japan Trauma Data Bank, covering patients enrolled over a 13-year period (2006-2018), to elucidate the effects of concurrent t-SCI and TBI on in-hospital mortality. Data on patient demographics, injury characteristics, treatment modalities, and outcomes were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to examine prognostic variables associated with in-hospital mortality, including interaction terms between t-SCI severity and TBI presence. This study included 91,983 patients with neurotrauma, with a median age of 62 years (69.7% men). Among the patients, 9,018 (9.8%) died in the hospital. Concomitant t-SCI and TBI occurred in 2,954 (3.2%) patients. t-SCI only occurred in 9,590 (10.4%) patients, whereas TBI only occurred in the majority of these cases (79,439, 86.4%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed age; sex; total number of comorbidities; systolic blood pressure at presentation; Glasgow coma scale score at presentation; and Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) scores for head, face, chest, abdomen, cervical-SCI, thoracic-SCI, and lumbar-SCI as significant independent factors for in-hospital mortality. The odds ratio of cervical-SCI × head AIS as an interaction term was 0.85 (95% confidence interval: 0.77-0.95), indicating a negative interaction. In conclusion, we identified 12 factors associated with in-hospital mortality in patients with t-SCI. In addition, the negative interaction between cervical t-SCI and TBI suggests that the presence of t-SCI in patients with TBI may be underestimated. This study highlights the importance of early recognition and comprehensive management of these complex trauma conditions while considering the possibility of concomitant t-SCI in patients with TBI.

Effects of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) compared to single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) in patients with traumatic brain injury

Japan is one of the world's most aging societies and the number of elderly patients taking antithrombotic drugs is increasing. In recent years, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), in which two antiplatelet drugs are administered, has become common in anticipation of its high therapeutic efficacy. However, there are concerns about increased bleeding complications in use of DAPT. Therefore, the goal of this study was to investigate the effects of DAPT in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). A prospective, multicenter, observational study was conducted from December 2019 to May 2021 to examine the effects of antithrombotic drugs and reversal drugs in 721 elderly patients with TBI. In the current study, the effect of DAPT on TBI was examined in a secondary analysis. Among the registered patients, 132 patients taking antiplatelet drugs only were divided into those treated with single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT) (n=106) and those treated with DAPT (n=26) prior to TBI. Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) on admission, pupillary findings, course during hospitalization, and outcome were compared in the two groups. A similar analysis was performed in patients with a mild GCS of 13–15 (n=95) and a moderate to severe GCS of 3–12 (n=37) on admission. The DAPT group had significantly more males (67.0 % vs. 96.2 %), a higher severity of illness on admission, and a higher frequency of brain herniation findings on head CT (21.7 % vs. 46.2 %), resulting in significantly higher mortality (12.3 % vs. 30.8 %). The only significant factor for mortality was severity on admission. The rate of DAPT was significantly higher in patients with a moderate to severe GCS on admission, and DAPT was the only significant factor related to severity on admission. These findings suggest that the severity of injury on admission influences the outcome six months after injury, and that patients with more severe TBI on admission are more likely to have been treated with DAPT compared to SAPT.