ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction Network Research Articles

Efectividad de las redes de atención al IAMCEST de diagnóstico extrahospitalario: revisión sistemática y metanálisis

Introduction and objectivesPrimary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) is recommended for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Countries have designed various STEMI network models to optimize out-of-hospital triage, timely treatment, and patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of STEMI network implementation including out-of-hospital triage in improving STEMI case-fatality and long-term mortality, and its effect on the proportion of patients presenting with heart failure, their ischemia time, and time to pPCI. MethodsSystematic review and meta-analysis. Searches of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases covering January 2000 to December 2023, study selection, and data extraction were completed by 3 independent reviewers. ResultsA total of 32 articles were selected. STEMI network implementation with out-of-hospital triage was associated with reductions of 35% in case-fatality (95%CI, -23% to -45%), 27% in long-term mortality (95%CI, -22% to -32%), and in the proportion of patients with Killip III-IV at admission, ischemia, time and time to pPCI (-17%, 95%CI, -35% +6%; -19%, 95%CI, -6% to -31%; -33%, 95%CI, -16% to -47%, respectively). Networks based on emergency transport systems and those involving the entire health system, including primary care centers and hospitals without pPCI capabilities, showed similar effectiveness. Greater effectiveness was observed in urban vs rural areas and high-income vs middle- and low-income countries. ConclusionsThe implementation of out-of-hospital triage-based STEMI networks is effective in reducing STEMI case-fatality and long-term mortality, independently of the geographic and socioeconomic conditions of the region. Participation of the emergency transport system is the key element of successful networks.

Clinical predictors and outcomes of ST-elevation myocardial infarction related cardiogenic shock in the Asian population

BackgroundCardiogenic shock (CS) complicating myocardial infarction is associated with poor outcomes. Data among Asian populations are scarce. We aimed to investigate the long-term outcomes, prognostic factors, and predictors of CS among Asian ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. MethodsThis was a retrospective cohort study of consecutive patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) for STEMI within our regional STEMI network between 2015 and 2019. The long-term outcomes of those with and without CS were compared. Clinical predictors of outcomes and development of CS were investigated. ResultsA total of 1791 patients who underwent PPCI were included. Patients completed at least 2 years’ follow-up with a median follow-up period of 2.6 years (IQR 1.0, 3,9). Overall, 208/1791 (11.6 %) STEMI patients developed CS. These patients were older (61.1 ± 12.5 vs 57.8 ± 12.2, P < 0.001) and mostly men (87.0 %). All-cause mortality (59.9 % vs 4.7 % P < 0.001), cardiac mortality (43.8 % vs 2.2 %, P < 0.001) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was significantly higher in the CS group (59.1 % vs 14.0 %, P < 0.001). Independent predictors of survival were higher index LVEF (adjusted hazards ratio [aHR] 0.967, 95 %CI 0.951–0.984, p < 0.001) and higher arterial pH at onset of shock (aHR 0.750, 0.626–0.897, p = 0.002). Increased serum lactate concentration independently predicts poor prognosis (aHR 1.084, 95 % CI 1.046–1.124, p < 0.001). ConclusionIn Asian STEMI patients who underwent PPCI, CS was associated with poor outcomes. Higher LVEF on index admission was associated with better outcomes; while lactic acidosis independently predicted mortality.

Safety of helicopter transport in patients with acute coronary syndrome.

ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) systems of care have reduced inter-hospital transfer times and facilitated timely reperfusion goals. Helicopters may be an option when land transportation is not feasible; however, the safety of air transport in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a factor to consider. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety of helicopter transport for patients with ACS. Prospective, observational, and descriptive study including patients diagnosed with ACS within the STEMI network of a metropolitan city transferred by helicopter to a large cardiovascular center to undergo percutaneous coronary intervention. The primary outcome of the study was the incidence of air-travel-related complications defined as IV dislodgement, hypoxia, arrhythmia, angina, anxiety, bleeding, and hypothermia. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the primary outcome. A total of 106 patients were included in the study; the mean age was 54 years and 84.9% were male. The most frequent diagnosis was STEMI after successful fibrinolysis (51.8%), followed by STEMI with failed fibrinolysis (23.7%) and non-reperfused STEMI (9.4%). Five patients (4.7%) developed at least one complication: IV dislodgement (1.8%) and hypoxemia (1.8%) in two patients and an episode of angina during flight (0.9%). A flight altitude of > 10,000 ft was not associated with complications. The results of this study suggest that helicopter transportation is safe in patients undergoing acute coronary syndrome, despite the altitude of a metropolitan area.

Differential gene expression patterns in ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction and Non-ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction

The ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and Non-ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI) might occur because of coronary artery stenosis. The gene biomarkers apply to the clinical diagnosis and therapeutic decisions in Myocardial Infarction. The aim of this study was to introduce, enrich and estimate timely the blood gene profiles based on the high-throughput data for the molecular distinction of STEMI and NSTEMI. The text mining data (50 genes) annotated with DisGeNET data (144 genes) were merged with the GEO gene expression data (5 datasets) using R software. Then, the STEMI and NSTEMI networks were primarily created using the STRING server, and improved using the Cytoscape software. The high-score genes were enriched using the KEGG signaling pathways and Gene Ontology (GO). Furthermore, the genes were categorized to determine the NSTEMI and STEMI gene profiles. The time cut-off points were identified statistically by monitoring the gene profiles up to 30 days after Myocardial Infarction (MI). The gene heatmaps were clearly created for the STEMI (high-fold genes 69, low-fold genes 45) and NSTEMI (high-fold genes 68, low-fold genes 36). The STEMI and NSTEMI networks suggested the high-score gene profiles. Furthermore, the gene enrichment suggested the different biological conditions for STEMI and NSTEMI. The time cut-off points for the NSTEMI (4 genes) and STEMI (13 genes) gene profiles were established up to three days after Myocardial Infarction. The study showed the different pathophysiologic conditions for STEMI and NSTEMI. Furthermore, the high-score gene profiles are suggested to measure up to 3 days after MI to distinguish the STEMI and NSTEMI.

Impact of Regional Network on the Management of STEMI Patients in North Cairo

Abstract Background Worldwide, coronary artery disease (CAD) is the single most frequent cause of death. Over seven million people every year die from CAD. The management of patients with STElevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is influenced by health care service organizations. Regional STEMI networks for acute myocardial infarction facilitate primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) and its efficacy in reducing mortality and improving its outcomes. Aim of the Work The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of regional STEMI network on patients' management and on hospital outcomes in north Cairo governorate, Egypt. Methods The present study is a Prospective observational multicenter study that was conducted on 352 patients with STEMI and symptom onset within 48 hours who presented to north Cairo hospitals. The patients were divided into 2 groups, group I in the first six months before establishment of a network between the north Cairo hospitals and group II in the second six months when the network between those hospitals was activated. Comparison was done between the two groups as regards patients' demographics, logistics of presentation and in hospital outcomes. Results The number of patients upon implementation of STEMI network increased from 140 to 212 (51.4%) to the same hospitals with the same facilities and in equal periods of time (6 months). It was found that the mean time of chest pain to first medical contact (FMC) between the two groups before and after establishment of STEMI network did not change, it was 4 hours in both groups (P = 0.36) while the mean door to balloon time improved from 54.3 to 44.1 minutes (P = 0.01). In our study thrombolytic therapy use declined from 36.4% before STEMI network set up to only 7.5% (P &amp;gt; 0.001), Ejection fraction (EF) improved from 51.3% to 55.4% (P &amp;gt; 0.001), mitral regurge (MR) also improved upon establishment of STEMI network from 53.6% to 78.8 with (P &amp;gt; 0.001), the mean CCU stay in group II was 2 days versus 3 days before implementation of STEMI network (P &amp;gt; 0.001), the mean door in door out from the spokes was 40 minutes. In-hospital mortality improved upon establishment of STEMI network from 6.4% to 2.8% (P = 0.10). Conclusion The establishment of the STEMI network in Egypt is feasible and can lead to improvement of patients' outcomes. Thrombolytic therapy was no longer the main reperfusion therapy and primary PCI was offered to most patients after establishment of STEMI network.

Análisis de una red de atención al IAMCEST: impacto pronóstico del tipo de primer contacto médico

Introduction and objectivesPrognosis in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is determined by delay in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). The impact of first medical contact (FMC) facility type on reperfusion delays and mortality remains controversial. MethodsWe performed a prospective registry of primary coronary intervention (PCI)-treated STEMI patients (2010-2020) in the Codi Infart STEMI network. We analyzed 1-year all-cause mortality depending on the FMC facility type: emergency medical service (EMS), community hospital (CH), PCI hospital (PCI-H), or primary care center (PCC). ResultsWe included 18 332 patients (EMS 34.3%; CH 33.5%; PCI-H 12.3%; PCC 20.0%). Patients with Killip-Kimball classes III-IV were: EMS 8.43%, CH 5.54%, PCI-H 7.51%, PCC 3.76% (P <.001). All comorbidities and first medical assistance complications were more frequent in the EMS and PCI-H groups (P <.05) and were less frequent in the PCC group (P <.05 for most variables). The PCI-H group had the shortest FMC-to-PCI delay (median 82 minutes); the EMS group achieved the shortest total ischemic time (median 151 minutes); CH had the longest reperfusion delays (P <.001). In an adjusted logistic regression model, the PCI-H and CH groups were associated with higher 1-year mortality, OR, 1.22 (95%CI, 1.00-1.48; P=.048), and OR, 1.17 (95%CI 1.02-1.36; P=.030), respectively, while the PCC group was associated with lower 1-year mortality than the EMS group, OR, 0.71 (95%CI 0.58-0.86; P <.001). ConclusionsFMC with PCI-H and CH was associated with higher adjusted 1-year mortality than FMC with EMS. The PCC group had a much lower intrinsic risk and was associated with better outcomes despite longer revascularization delays.

Streptokinase-Based Pharmacoinvasive Strategy Versus Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Propensity Score Matching Analysis from the Siriraj STEMI Network

Objective: To investigate the efficacy and safety of pharmacoinvasive (PI) strategy compared to primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in the setting of a real-world ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) network where streptokinase (SK) is predominantly prescribed. Materials and Methods: The authors analyzed 325 STEMI patients who participated in The Siriraj STEMI network between July 2015 and October 2020. The primary efficacy endpoint was the incidence of cumulative major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) at one month, which were the composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and non-coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)-related thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) major or minor bleeding. The safety endpoint was non-CABG-related TIMI major or minor bleeding during the index hospitalization. Cox regression was performed for survival analysis. The authors applied propensity score matching to reduce the bias of the confounding variables. Results: Two hundred four patients received fibrinolytic therapy, 191 (93.6%) obtained SK, and 121 participants underwent PPCI. After propensity score matching analysis, the incidence of cumulative MACCE at one-month follow-up was not significantly different between the PI and the PPCI group (p=0.726) as well as the incidence of bleeding endpoint (p=0.446). In the subgroup analysis of the 191 patients who received SK (SK-PI), there was no statistical difference in the occurrence of cumulative MACCE compared to PPCI (p=0.136). Killip classification class III (hazard ratio [HR] 7.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.25 to 17.31, p&lt;0.001), and class IV (HR 9.78, 95% CI 4.31 to 22.21, p&lt;0.001) were independent risk factors for developing MACCE. Conclusion: The streptokinase-based pharmacoinvasive strategy is non-statistically different in terms of efficacy and safety compared to PPCI. This evidence supports the utilization of the SK-PI approach in low- to middle-income countries where the availability of fibrin-specific fibrinolytic agents is often limited. Keywords: Revascularization strategy; Acute coronary syndrome; Fibrinolytic therapy

Performance analysis of a STEMI network: prognostic impact of the type of first medical contact facility

Introduction and objectivesPrognosis in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is determined by delay in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI). The impact of first medical contact (FMC) facility type on reperfusion delays and mortality remains controversial. MethodsWe performed a prospective registry of primary coronary intervention (PCI)-treated STEMI patients (2010-2020) in the Codi Infart STEMI network. We analyzed 1-year all-cause mortality depending on the FMC facility type: emergency medical service (EMS), community hospital (CH), PCI hospital (PCI-H), or primary care center (PCC). ResultsWe included 18 332 patients (EMS 34.3%; CH 33.5%; PCI-H 12.3%; PCC 20.0%). Patients with Killip-Kimball classes III-IV were: EMS 8.43%, CH 5.54%, PCI-H 7.51%, PCC 3.76% (P <.001). All comorbidities and first medical assistance complications were more frequent in the EMS and PCI-H groups (P <.05) and were less frequent in the PCC group (P <.05 for most variables). The PCI-H group had the shortest FMC-to-PCI delay (median 82 minutes); the EMS group achieved the shortest total ischemic time (median 151 minutes); CH had the longest reperfusion delays (P <.001). In an adjusted logistic regression model, the PCI-H and CH groups were associated with higher 1-year mortality, OR, 1.22 (95%CI, 1.00-1.48; P=.048), and OR, 1.17 (95%CI 1.02-1.36; P=.030), respectively, while the PCC group was associated with lower 1-year mortality than the EMS group, OR, 0.71 (95%CI 0.58-0.86; P <.001). ConclusionsFMC with PCI-H and CH was associated with higher adjusted 1-year mortality than FMC with EMS. The PCC group had a much lower intrinsic risk and was associated with better outcomes despite longer revascularization delays.

Inter-facility transfer for patients with STEMI in Bahrain: Characteristics and timings

Background: The outcomes of patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) transferred to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) facility is strongly related to certain demographic and clinical factors, important timelines, door-to-electrocardiography (ECG) time, door-in door-out (DIDO) time, door to balloon time (DTBT), the use of emergency medical services (EMS), and the existence of a STEMI network. In the study, we examined the inter-facility transfer for patients with STEMI analyzing certain characteristics and timings between the involved institutions. Method: This was a retrospective observational study on the inter-facility transfer of patients with STEMI admitted between January 01, 2018, and December 31, 2019. The electronic medical records of both the institutions were used to collect data on patient demographics, clinical characteristics and scores, ECG manifestations, laboratory values, treatment interventions, and outcomes with a major focus on the timelines for door-to-ECG, DIDO, and DTBT. Results: A total of 141 patients with STEMI who were transferred to a PCI center were included in this study. Their mean age was 52.26 ± 12.45 years and were mainly men (87.9%, p &lt; 0.001). Men developed STEMI at a younger mean age (53.15 ± 12.53 years, p = 0.003). Chest pain was the most common notable symptom (129, 91.5%). Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension were noted to be the comorbid factors in a majority of patients (70, 49.6%). Only 47 patients (33.3%, p &lt; 0.001) were brought by EMS. Mean door-to-ECG and DIDO times were 8 minutes (IQR: 4–12) and 32.5 minutes (IQR: 24–46), respectively. Only 112 patients (79.4%) underwent PCI on arrival with a DTBT of 90 minutes (IQR: 70.5–105). Only door-to-ECG time and DTBT could be attained as required in this study (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: This study reveals a few beneficial statistics for the inter-facility transfer of patients with STEMI concerning their demographics, clinical characteristics, and important timelines. The door-to-ECG time, DTBT, and DIDO time were in the considerable recommended time, and this reflects the importance of establishing a STEMI network.

First medical contact facility type as a determinant of prognosis in a regional ST elevation myocardial infarction network

Abstract Background Delay in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in ST elevation myocardial infartion (STEMI) is associated with worse prognosis. In our regional STEMI network, the first medical contact (FMC) facility type defines 4 different assistance pathways (i.e. emergency medical services'diagnosis on the field and direct transfer to the catheterization laboratory (cath. lab) of a PCI hospital (EMS group); direct admission to a PCI hospital (PCI-H group); admission to community hospital and transfer to the cath lab of the PCI-H (CH group); diagnosis in a primary care centre and transfer to the cath lab of the PCI-H (PCC group). Each different FMC has been associated with different degrees in reperfusion delay. Objective To determine the influence of FMC facility type on 1-year mortality in patients with STEMI in our regional STEMI network. Methods This is a retrospective study based on the STEMI network registry, a mandatory registry conducted since its implantation and supervised by the regional health authorities. We included STEMI patients treated with PPCI from January 2010 to December 2020. We analyzed differences in clinical variables, reprefusion times and 1-year all-cause mortality regarding the FMC facility type. Results We included 18332 patients (EMS 34.25%, PCI-H 12.28%, CH 33.47%, PCC 20.01%). Initial Killip classes III–IV: EMS 8.43%, PCI-H 7.51%, CH 5.54%, PCC 3.76%; p&amp;lt;0.001. All comorbidities and complications in first medical assistance were more frequent in EMS and PCI-H groups (p&amp;lt;0.05). PCC group had the lowest risk profile regarding comorbidities and first medical assistance complications (p&amp;lt;0.05 for most of variables). The PCI-H group had the shortest system delay (median 82 min, p&amp;lt;0.001), the EMS group had the shortest total ischemic time (median 151 min, p&amp;lt;0.001). Crude 1-year mortality was EMS 8.6%, PCI-H 9.11%, CH 8.25%, and PCC 4.77% (p&amp;lt;0.001). After adjusting for several covariables with a logistic regression model, PCI-H and CH groups were associated with higher 1-year mortality compared to EMS group (OR 1.23 (IC95% 1.01–1.49; p=0.04) and OR 1.16 (IC95% 1.01–1.34; p=0.04) respectively), while PCC group was associated with lower 1-year mortality (OR 0.69 (IC95% 0.57–0.84; p&amp;lt;0.01)). Conclusions First medical contact with EMS and direct transfer to the cath lab was associated with lower adjusted 1-year mortality compared to first medical contact with a PCI hospital or a community hospital. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Short-term mortality differs between men and women according to the presence of previous cardiovascular disease: Insights from a nationwide STEMI cohort

BackgroundSex and prior cardiovascular disease (CVD) are known independent prognostic factors following an ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). We aimed to examine whether the association between sex and 30-day mortality differ according to the presence of previous CVD in STEMI patients. MethodsProspective, observational, multicentre registry of consecutive patients managed in 17 STEMI networks in Spain (83 centres), between April and June 2019. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression models assessed the association of 30-day mortality with sex and prior CVD status, as well as their interaction. ResultsAmong 4366 patients (mean age 63.7 ± 13.0 years; 78% male), there were 337 (8.1%) deaths within the first 30 days. There was an association between crude 30-day mortality and sex (women 10.4% vs. men 7.4%, p = 0.003), and prior CVD (CVD 13.7% vs non-CVD 6.8%, p < 0.001). After adjustment for potential confounding, neither sex nor prior CVD were apparently associated with mortality. Nevertheless, we found a significant sex-CVD interaction (p-interaction = 0.006), since women were at lower risk than men in the subset of patients with prior CVD (OR = 0.30, 95%CI = 0.12–0.80) but not in those without CVD (OR = 1.17, 95%CI = 0.79–1.74). ConclusionsWomen as well as patients with prior CVD have an increased crude risk of 30-day mortality. However, sex-related differences in short term mortality are modulated by the interaction with CVD in STEMI patients. Compared to men, women had a similar prognosis in the subset of patients without CVD, whereas they were associated with a lower risk of mortality among those with prior CVD after adjusting for other prognostic factors.

Short- and long-term survival after ST-elevation myocardial infarction treated with pharmacoinvasive versus primary percutaneous coronary intervention strategy: a prospective cohort study

ObjectiveCompare survival in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with a pharmacoinvasive (PI) or primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) strategy based on estimated time to PCI.DesignProspective observational cohort study....

Effect of prehospital treatment in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI.

BackgroundThe appropriate timing to administer antithrombotic therapies in ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the role of antithrombotic therapy administration at first medical contact (FMC) compared with the administration in the Cathlab.MethodsWe conducted a “before‐after” observational study enrolling STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Outcomes were evaluated during two successive periods, before (control group: aspirin only at FMC) and after (pretreated intervention group: heparin, aspirin plus ticagrelor at FMC) the introduction of a new regional pretreatment protocol.ResultsA total of 537 consecutive patients (300 in control vs. 237 in intervention group) were enrolled. The pretreated compared with no pretreated population showed better basal reperfusion, expressed as basal Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI)‐flow (p for trend p < 0.001). Pretreated population showed lower frequency of TIMI 0 (56.5% vs. 73.7%, odds ratio [OR]: 0.46, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.32–0.67, p < 0.001) and higher frequency of TIMI 2‐3 (33.3% vs. 19.3% OR: 2.0, 95% CI: 1.38–2.00, p < 0.001) and TIMI 3 (14.3% vs. 9.7%, OR: 1.56, 95% CI: (0.92–2.65), p = 0.094). Pretreated compared with no pretreated population showed reduced infarct size expressed as Troponin Peak (20,286 (8726–75,027) versus 48,676 (17,229–113,900), p = 0.001), and higher left ventricular ejection fraction at discharge (53% (44–59) vs. 50% (44–56), p = 0.027). In‐hospital BARC ≥ 2 bleeding were similar (2.1% vs. 2.0%, p = 0.929, in pretreated versus no pretreated population, respectively).ConclusionThis study provides support for an early pretreatment strategy in STEMI patients and confirmed the importance of an efficient organization of STEMI networks which allow initiation of antithrombotic treatment at FMC.

How to set up regional STEMI networks: a "Stent - Save a life!" initiative.

Clinical guidelines recommend the development of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) networks at community, regional and/or national level to ideally offer primary coronary angioplasty, or at least the best available STEMI care to all patients. However, there is a discrepancy between this clinical recommendation and daily practice, with no coordinated care for STEMI patients in many regions of the world. While this can be a consequence of lack of resources, in reality it is more frequently a lack of organisational power. In this paper, the Stent - Save a Life! Initiative (www.stentsavealife.com) proposes a practical methodology to set up a STEMI network effectively in any region of the world with existing resources, and to develop the STEMI network continuously once it has been established.

STEMI India: reimagining STEMI networks in low- and middle-income countries: Reimagining STEMI.

Effective treatment for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) includes the 24/7 availability of reperfusion therapy, which is crucial for good clinical outcomes. In low- and middle-income countries, this is hindered by disparities in resource utilisation, irregularities in access to health care and organisational gaps. Due to the inaccessibility of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for most patients, the more feasible and practical approach of pharmacoinvasive management must be incorporated into the systems of care for STEMI. This review focuses on the development of STEMI India, a not-for-profit organisation that aims to advance the field of STEMI management by imparting and disseminating the latest information from around the world on STEMI management to all those involved in STEMI care. The STEMI India model system of care includes a 3-model framework, based on infrastructure and workforce availability, and tailored to meet the needs of the society it caters to. After the successful implementation of the "Tamil Nadu STEMI" project, a nationwide system of care for STEMI has been developed, which has been endorsed by the Cardiological Society of India (CSI) and the Association of Physicians of India (API).

350 Effect of pre-hospital treatment for STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI

Abstract Aims The appropriate timing to administer antithrombotic therapies in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) remains uncertain. This study aims to evaluate the role of antithrombotic therapy administration at first medical contact (FMC) compared to the administration in the Cathlab. Methods and results We conducted a ‘before-after’ observational study enrolling STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Outcomes were evaluated during two successive periods, before (control group: aspirin only at FMC) and after (pre-treated intervention group: heparin, aspirin plus ticagrelor at FMC) the introduction of a new regional pre-treatment protocol. 537 consecutive patients (300 in control vs. 237 in intervention group) were enrolled. The pre-treated compared to no pre-treated population showed better basal reperfusion, expressed as basal thrombolysis in myocardial Infarction (TIMI)-flow (p for trend P &amp;lt; 0.001). Pre-treated population showed lower frequency of TIMI 0 (56.5% vs. 73.7%, OR: 0.46, 95% CI: 0.32–0.67, P &amp;lt; 0.001) and higher frequency of TIMI 2–3 (33.3% vs. 19.7%; OR: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.38–2.00, P &amp;lt; 0.001) and TIMI 3 [14.3% vs. 9.7%, OR: 1.56, 95% CI: (0.92–2.65), P = 0.094]. Pre-treated compared to no pre-treated population showed reduced infarct size expressed as Troponin Peak [20 286 (8726–75027) vs. 48 676 (17229–113900), P = 0.001], and higher left ventricular ejection fraction at discharge [53% (44–59) vs. 50% (44–56), P = 0.027]. In-Hospital BARC ≥2 bleeding were similar (2.1% vs. 2.0%, P = 0.929, in pre-treated vs. no pre-treated population, respectively). Conclusions This study provides support for an early pre-treatment strategy in STEMI patients and confirmed the importance of an efficient organization of STEMI networks which allow initiation of antithrombotic treatment at FMC.

STEMI treatment in remote areas – challenges of the only interventional angioplasty center located in an archipelago

Abstract Background In remote islands lack of specialized medical facilities, long distance transfer and emergency medical system organization remains a challenge and fibrinolysis is necessary to achieve revascularization in optimal timing in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. Our angioplasty center is the only one located in an archipelago composed of nine islands, six of which do not have hospital facilities and only have small family health care units. Purpose To evaluate the reality and outcomes of our interventional angioplasty center and compare cardiovascular outcomes between STEMI patients from the main island and remote islands. Methods We retrospectively evaluated 103 patients with STEMI admitted to our center between 2018 and 2019. Patients from the main island where the center is located underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (group 1, n=55) and patients from remote islands underwent fibrinolytic therapy followed by transference to our center with facilitated or rescue PCI (group 2, n=48). A subanalysis of the far remote islands without hospital facilities was also performed. Primary outcome was defined as cardiovascular death or re-infarction at two years and secondary outcome as intrahospital haemorrhagic complications. Results Mean age was 58,15±12,6 years, 85,4% were males and follow up period was 30,30±6,46 months. Seventy-eight patients (75,7%) had history of smoking, 45 (43,7%) dyslipidemia, 20 (19,4%) previous acute coronary syndrome, 18 (17,5%) diabetes and 17 (15,5%) were obese. Troponin I peak was 117,42±129,06 ug/L and 14 (13,6%) were in Killip Class III/IV. Infarct-related artery was the left anterior descending artery in 45 (45,5%) and multivessel disease was present in 38 (38,0%). In group 1 reperfusion after PCI was obtained in 91,5%. In group 2, 73,5% met criteria for reperfusion after fibrinolysis and 23,6% after rescue PCI. Mean time from fibrinolysis to PCI was 558±349 minutes. Rates of successful revascularization did not differ between groups, as well as complete patency of the culprit-vessel defined as thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow 3 (91,5% vs. 97,2% and 90,0% vs. 93,0% respectively for group 1 and 2). Cardiovascular death at two years occurred in 4 (3,9%) patients and re-infarction in 11 (10,7%) and were similar between groups (3 (5,5%) vs. 1 (2,1%) and 8 (14,5%) vs. 3 (6,3%) respectively) as well as haemorrhagic complications (1 (1,8%) vs. 5 (10,4%) respectively). Nineteen (18,4%) patients were from far remote islands without hospital facilities and when comparing these patients with the others there was also no difference in primary outcome. Conclusion Even in remote islands, an organized STEMI network with attempted fibrinolytic treatment and coordinated transference of patients for facilitated or rescue PCI can provide successful revascularization with cardiovascular outcomes similar to those submitted to primary PCI. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding sources: None.

Impact of a telemedicine-guided, population-based, STEMI network on reperfusion strategy, efficiency, and outcomes: Impact of telemedicine on STEMI management.

A telemedicine-guided strategy increases the access to and efficiency of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) networks resulting in increased access to, and reduced disparities in, acute myocardial infarction (AMI) care between rural and urban areas. The Latin America Telemedicine Infarct Network (LATIN) was developed for poor and remote regions in Brazil and Colombia that lacked coordinated AMI systems of care. It strategically connects small clinics and primary care health centres (spokes) to hubs with 24/7 percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) capability. Experts at three remote sites provide urgent electrocardiogram (ECG) diagnosis and tele-consultation for the entire network. Data from the busiest LATIN site, the Santa Marcelina Hospital in Sao Paolo, Brazil, were compared with health statistics from Sistema Unico de Saude (Brazilian Public Health System - SUS). A total of 192 centres were networked using standardised and guideline-based protocols for AMI care. Overall, 313,897 patients were remotely screened, 3,572 AMI diagnosed (1.1%), and 1,636 AMI urgently reperfused (45.8%), mainly by primary PCI (n=1,351; 83%). In conclusion, a comparison between a pre-LATIN cohort from SUS (1,015) and a LATIN cohort from Santa Marcelina Hospital (1,247) revealed increased reperfusion with PCI (65.52% vs 75.2%), increased cost ($2,037.12 vs $2,246.40, p<0.005), a statistically significant reduction in PCI mortality (8.5% vs 4.3% p<0.01) and a non-significant reduction in mortality overall amongst all treatment pathways (9.69% vs 9.43%, p=0.931).

Clinical Presentation and Outcome of Patients Experiencing Homelessness Presenting With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

BackgroundCardiovascular disease remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality among homeless adults. Despite major advances in the management of ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), limited information is available for the clinical presentation and management and outcome of STEMI among patients experiencing homelessness (PEH). MethodsAll patients presenting with STEMI between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2017 at a PCI capable STEMI network inner city hospital comprised the study population. Baseline characteristics, homeless status and clinical outcomes were determined from hospital records. The primary outcome of in-hospital mortality was compared between PEH and nonhomeless patients using a log-binomial regression model with propensity score adjusted standardised mortality ratio weighting (SMRW). ResultsAmong 2854 STEMI admissions during the study period, 75 patients (2.6%) were identified as PEH. The PEH group was younger (58 vs 63 years; P = 0.0002), predominantly male (96% vs 76%), and more likely to present with cardiogenic shock or cardiac arrest (17% vs 6%) compared with the nonhomeless group. The in-hospital mortality remained significantly higher among PEH (risk ratio 3.83, 95% confidence interval 1.27-11.60) after propensity score adjustment. ConclusionsDespite universal health care and contemporary STEMI management, PEH presenting with STEMI experienced a 4-fold higher in-hospital mortality compared with the nonhomeless cohort. Targeted interventions are needed to improve STEMI outcomes in this high-risk group.

Health Inequalities of STEMI Care Before Implementation of a New Regional Network: A Prefecture-Level Analysis of Social Determinants of Healthcare in Yunnan, China.

As one of the most serious types of coronary heart disease, ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) faces huge challenges in the equal management and care of patients due to its life-threatening and time-critical condition. Health inequalities such as sex and age differences in STEMI care have been reported from developed countries. However, limited outcomes have been investigated and the major drivers of inequality are still unclear, especially in under-developed areas. This study aimed to explore the major drivers of health inequalities in STEMI care before implementation of a new regional network in the south-west of China. Prefecture-level data of STEMI patients before the implementation of a regional network were analysed retrospectively. Drivers of inequality were identified from six social determinants of health, namely area of residence, ethnicity, sex, age, education and occupation. Outcomes of STEMI care included timely presentation, reperfusion therapy, timely reperfusion therapy, heart failure, inpatient mortality, length of hospital stay, hospital costs, and various intervals of ischaemic time. A total of 376 STEMI patients in the research area before implementation of the STEMI network were included. Compared with urban residents, rural patients were significantly less likely to have timely presentation (odds ratio [OR]=0.47, 95% CI: 0.28-0.80, P=.004) and timely reperfusion therapy (OR=0.32, 95% CI: 0.14-0.70, P=.005). Rural residents were less likely to present to hospital promptly than urban residents (HR=0.65, 95% CI=0.52-0.82, P<.001). In the first 3 hours of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) reperfusion delay and first 6 hours of total ischaemic time, rural patients had a significantly lower probability to receive prompt PCI (hazard ratio [HR]=0.40, 95% CI: 0.29-0.54, P<.001) and reperfusion therapy (HR=0.37, 95% CI: 0.25-0.56, P<.001) compared to urban patients. Rural residents were a major vulnerable group before implementation of the regional STEMI network. No obvious inequalities in ethnicity, sex, age, education or occupation existed in STEMI care in Chuxiong Prefecture of China.