Strict Blood Pressure Research Articles

Strict Blood Pressure Control Is Associated with Better Survival in Korean Patients on Hemodialysis, but Not in Patients on Peritonal Dialysis

Strict Blood Pressure Control Is Associated with Better Survival in Korean Patients on Hemodialysis, but Not in Patients on Peritonal Dialysis

Efficacy and safety of fenoldopam for the treatment of hypertensive crises in children with kidney disease: a retrospective study.

Hypertensive crises in children represent critical medical situations characterized by severe hypertension and potential organ damage. Fenoldopam, a dopaminergic medication, offers a viable therapeutic option for managing such clinical scenarios. We aimed to evaluate efficacy and safety of fenoldopam in the management of hypertensive urgencies and emergencies. This retrospective analysis focused on pediatric patients affected by acute or chronic kidney disease, aged 1month-18years, admitted to the Pediatric Nephrology and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at University-Hospital of Padua, Italy, who presented witha hypertensive crisis treated with fenoldopam between March 2010 and December 2022. The study included 74 patients with median age 10years (interquartile range [IQR] 4-15years) who received 102 fenoldopam infusions. Seventy-two percent were already receiving antihypertensive treatment before admission. In all cases, fenoldopam was associated with a reduction of blood pressure (BP) after 8h of treatment, but in 87% of patients reduction of the initial mean arterial pressure (MAP) was higher than 25% of calculated drop pressure. MAP normalized in 26% of cases after 24h and in35% after 48h. Occurrence of hypotension was 7%, while hypokalemia was observed in 13% of cases. Patients who presented a MAP reduction not exceeding 25% of calculated drop pressure received a lower median fenoldopam dose (0.2 mcg/kg/min; IQR 0.1-0.2) compared with patients having a MAP reduction > 25% of calculated drop pressure (0.4 mcg/kg/min; IQR 0.2-0.6; p = 0.002). Fenoldopam seems effective and safe for the treatment of hypertensive crises in children with kidney disease, at a starting dose of 0.2 mcg/kg/min. Strict BP monitoring is required to identify possible excessive drop pressure in the first hours of infusion.

The Intersection between Frailty, Diabetes, and Hypertension: The Critical Role of Community Geriatricians and Pharmacists in Deprescribing.

Background: Frailty is a clinical syndrome prevalent among the elderly, characterised by a decline in physiological reserves and increased susceptibility to stressors, resulting in higher morbidity and mortality. Diabetes and hypertension are common in frail older individuals, often leading to polypharmacy. In this narrative review, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between frailty, diabetes, and hypertension and to identify effective management strategies and future research directions. Methods: This narrative review was conducted using the Scopus, Medline, PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases. Results: Frailty significantly impacts the management and prognosis of diabetes and hypertension, which, in turn, affects the progression of frailty. Managing these conditions often involves multiple drugs to achieve strict glycaemic control and blood pressure targets, leading to polypharmacy and associated morbidities, including orthostatic hypotension, falls, fractures, hypoglycaemia, and reduced medication adherence. Identifying frailty and implementing strategies like deprescribing can mitigate the adverse effects of polypharmacy and improve outcomes and quality of life. Despite the availability of effective tools for identifying frailty, many frail individuals continue to be exposed to complex treatment regimens for diabetes and hypertension, leading to increased hospital admissions, morbidity, and mortality. Conclusions: Managing diabetes and hypertension in the frail ageing population requires a multidisciplinary approach involving hospital and community geriatricians and pharmacists. This is important due to the lack of sufficient clinical trials dedicated to diabetes and hypertension in the context of frailty. Future large population studies are needed to assess the best approaches for managing diabetes and hypertension in frail individuals.

Blood pressure control in diabetic kidney disease: a post-hoc analysis of the FANTASTIC trial

BackgroundThe target blood pressure (BP) value is unclear for diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the effect of strict BP control or ‘on treatment’ BP on clinical outcomes in patients with DKD.MethodsA post-hoc analysis of the prespecified secondary outcomes of the FimAsartaN proTeinuriA SusTaIned reduCtion in comparison with losartan in diabetic chronic kidney disease (FANTASTIC) trial, a randomized multicenter double-blind phase III trial. Eligible patients were aged ≥ 19 years with DKD. We assigned 341 participants with DKD to BP control strategy (standard-systolic BP [SBP] < 140 mmHg versus strict-SBP < 130 mmHg). The outcome was the occurrence of cardiovascular events and renal events. Separate analyses were performed to compared the risk of outcome according to achieved average BP levels.ResultsA total of 341 participants were included in the analysis. Over a median follow-up of 2.8 years, cardiovascular/renal events were observed in 25 (7.3%) participants. Mean (SD) SBPs in the standard and strict BP control group were 140.2 (11.6) and 140.2 (11.9) mmHg, respectively. The strict BP control group did not show significantly reduced risk of cardiovascular/renal events (HR 1.32; 95% CI 0.60–2.92]). In the post-hoc analyses using achieved BP, achieved average SBP of 130–139 mmHg resulted in reduced risk of cardiovascular/renal events (HR 0.15; 95% CI 0.03–0.67) compared to achieved average SBP ≥ 140 mmHg, whereas further reduction in achieved average SBP < 130 mmHg did not impart additional benefits.ConclusionIn patients with DKD, targeting a SBP of less than 130 mmHg, as compared with less than 140 mmHg, did not reduce the rate of a composite of cardiovascular and renal events. Achieved SBP of 130–139 mmHg was associated with a decreased risk for the primary outcome in patients with DKD.Trial registrationClinicalTirals.gov Identifier: NCT02620306, registered December 3, 2015.(https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02620306).

Finding peace in a new version of oneself- a qualitative study of post operative patients after aorta dissection and their experiences of cardiac rehabilitation

Abstract Background Aortic dissection, characterized by a sudden rupture in the carotid artery allowing blood to enter the aortic wall. The mortality rate is 1% per hour, and half of the patients die within 48 hours. Following surgery, patients are advised to limit arm lifting to 2 kg, maintain strict blood pressure control for life, and engage in physical activities that do not strain the aorta. Despite the limited evidence on optimal rehabilitation, our University Hospital in Denmark has established a team that secure patients with aortic dissection a structured post operative rehabilitation program. Aim This study aims to explore the experiences and importance of a specialized rehabilitation program for individuals post-surgery for aortic dissection. Method A qualitative interview study, analyzed using content analysis inspired by Graneheim &amp; Lundman. Interview participants were recruited through the physiotherapist at the hospital either at the end or shortly after their rehabilitation program. Interviews were conducted over the phone or in a private room at the hospital. Results Based on interviews with eight patients (three women and five men aged 43-73), an overarching theme emerged; "Finding peace in a new version of oneself." This theme encapsulates the journey of adapting to a new identity with a changed body that has limitations, combined with a sense of gratitude for being alive. Three subthemes describe the period from surgery to the end of the rehabilitation course: 1) Surviving the operation - the initial miracle and the subsequent uncertainties, 2) The rehabilitation course enhance a sense of security and well-being, and 3) Reclaiming wholeness. Conclusion A specialized rehabilitation program proves to be a crucial support in helping individuals with aortic dissection find peace in their altered selves after facing a life-threatening trauma. These patients require comprehensive physical and psychological support through cardiac rehabilitation provided by cardiac nurses, along with prompt initiation of specialized rehabilitation led by physiotherapists with expertise in aortic dissection.

Office measurement vs. ambulatory blood pressure monitoring: associations with mortality in patients with or without diabetes.

Guidelines suggest similar blood pressure (BP) targets in patients with and without diabetes and recommend ambulatory BP monitoring (ABPM) to diagnose and classify hypertension. It was explored whether different levels of ambulatory and office BP and different hypertension phenotypes associate with differences of risk in diabetes and no diabetes. This analysis assessed outcome data from the Spanish ABPM Registry in 59 124 patients with complete available data. The associations between office, mean, daytime, and nighttime ambulatory BP with the risk in patients with or without diabetes were explored. The effects of diabetes on mortality in different hypertension phenotypes, i.e. sustained hypertension, white-coat hypertension, and masked hypertension, compared with normotension were studied. Analyses were done with Cox regression analyses and adjusted for demographic and clinical confounders. A total of 59 124 patients were recruited from 223 primary care centres in Spain. The majority had an office systolic BP >140 mmHg (36 700 patients), and 23 128 (40.6%) patients were untreated. Diabetes was diagnosed in 11 391 patients (19.2%). Concomitant cardiovascular (CV) disease was present in 2521 patients (23.1%) with diabetes and 4616 (10.0%) without diabetes. Twenty-four-hour mean, daytime, and nighttime ambulatory BP were associated with increased risk in diabetes and no diabetes, while in office BP, there was no clear association with no differences with and without diabetes. While the relative association of BP to CV death risk was similar in diabetes compared with no diabetes (mean interaction P = .80, daytime interaction P = .97, and nighttime interaction P = .32), increased event rates occurred in diabetes for all ABPM parameters for CV death and all-cause death. White-coat hypertension was not associated with risk for CV death (hazard ratio 0.86; 95% confidence interval 0.72-1.03) and slightly reduced risk for all-cause death in no diabetes (hazard ratio 0.89; confidence interval 0.81-0.98) but without significant interaction between diabetes and no diabetes. Sustained hypertension and masked hypertension in diabetes and no diabetes were associated with even higher risk. There were no significant interactions in hypertensive phenotypes between diabetes and no diabetes and CV death risk (interaction P = .26), while some interaction was present for all-cause death (interaction P = .043) and non-CV death (interaction P = .053). Diabetes increased the risk for all-cause death, CV, and non-CV death at every level of office and ambulatory BP. Masked and sustained hypertension confer to the highest risk, while white-coat hypertension appears grossly neutral without interaction of relative risk between diabetes and no diabetes. These results support recommendations of international guidelines for strict BP control and using ABPM for classification and assessment of risk and control of hypertension, particularly in patients with diabetes. Not applicable.

Diabetes-Related Macrovascular Complications Are Associated With an Increased Risk of Diabetic Microvascular Complications: A Prospective Study of 1518 Patients With Type 1 Diabetes and 20 802 Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in the UK Biobank.

Diabetic vascular complications share common pathophysiological mechanisms, but the relationship between diabetes-related macrovascular complications (MacroVCs) and incident diabetic microvascular complications remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the impact of MacroVCs on the risk of microvascular complications. There were 1518 participants with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and 20 802 participants with type 2 diabetes from the UK Biobank included in this longitudinal cohort study. MacroVCs were defined by the presence of macrovascular diseases diagnosed after diabetes at recruitment, including coronary heart disease, peripheral artery disease, stroke, and ≥2 MacroVCs. The primary outcome was incident microvascular complications, a composite of diabetic retinopathy, diabetic kidney disease, and diabetic neuropathy. During a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 11.61 (5.84-13.12) years and 12.2 (9.50-13.18) years, 596 (39.3%) and 4113 (19.8%) participants developed a primary outcome in T1D and type 2 diabetes, respectively. After full adjustment for conventional risk factors, Cox regression models showed significant associations between individual as well as cumulative MacroVCs and the primary outcome, except for coronary heart disease in T1D (T1D: diabetes coronary heart disease: 1.25 [0.98-1.60]; diabetes peripheral artery disease: 3.00 [1.86-4.84]; diabetes stroke: 1.71 [1.08-2.72]; ≥2: 2.57 [1.66-3.99]; type 2 diabetes: diabetes coronary heart disease: 1.59 [1.38-1.82]; diabetes peripheral artery disease: 1.60 [1.01-2.54]; diabetes stroke: 1.50 [1.13-1.99]; ≥2: 2.66 [1.92-3.68]). Subgroup analysis showed that strict glycemic (glycated hemoglobin <6.5%) and blood pressure (<140/90 mm Hg) control attenuated the association. Individual and cumulative MacroVCs confer significant risk of incident microvascular complications in patients with T1D and type 2 diabetes. Our results may facilitate cost-effective high-risk population identification and development of precise prevention strategies.

#2171 The impact of preoperative hypertension and blood pressure control on kidney outcomes after surgery for localized kidney cancer: a prospective study

Abstract Background and Aims Kidney surgery represents the treatment of choice for localized renal cell carcinomas (RCC). Postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) is reported in 40% of the patients undergoing partial nephrectomy [1]. A nephron-sparing approach is not always feasible for anatomical as well as oncological reasons and total nephrectomy is associated with an even higher risk of both acute and chronic impairment of renal function. Recently, interest has risen in the development of prediction models able to preoperatively identify patients at higher risk of AKI and chronic kidney disease (CKD) development after kidney surgery, but the role of hypertension in this field is yet underexplored. The aim of the present study was therefore to assess the impact of hypertension and blood pressure control on kidney outcomes after surgery for RCC. Method We prospectively enrolled 45 patients with an estimated glomerular-filtration-rate (eGFR) &amp;gt; 45 ml/min per 1.73 m2 who underwent kidney surgery for RCC at our institution between May 1, 2022, and September 30, 2023. Clinical characteristics of the study cohort are reported in Table 1. In-hospital AKI was defined as an increase of serum creatinine &amp;gt; 0.3 mg/dl from baseline and CKD development (defined as eGFR &amp;lt;60 ml/min/1.73 m2) was evaluated at 3 months. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (24h-ABPM) was assessed at baseline. Comparisons between groups were made by analysis of variance. Comparisons of proportions among groups were made using the χ2 test. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to describe the relationship between clinical variables and the presence of in-hospital AKI. Results Among the 45 patients enrolled, 42% (n = 19) developed postoperative AKI, of whom 32% (n = 6) had a complete kidney function recovery, whereas 68% (n = 13) developed CKD. Of the 39 patients with a basal ABPM evaluation, 87% (n = 34) had a diagnosis of hypertension. For 35% (n = 12) of these patients a first diagnosis of hypertension was made. AKI patients had higher median SBP (143 ± 9 vs 133 ± 12 mmHg, p = 0.008) and SBP variability (24 ± 4 vs 20 ± 5 mmHg, p = 0.01) compared with non-AKI patients. Preoperative 24h-SBP &amp;gt;130 mmHg was independently associated with in-hospital AKI (p = 0.05), regardless of age, gender, hypertension, diabetes and antihypertensive treatment. Considering the 3-month eGFR, we observed that compared with non-AKI patients, baseline 24h-SBP was higher, as a trend, in AKI patients who did not develop CKD or in those developing CKD on previous normal kidney function (de novo CKD), while no difference in 24h-SBP was observed between AKI and non-AKI patients in the subgroup of patients with preoperative CKD (CKD on CKD) (Fig. 1). Conclusion Preoperative hypertension, a potentially modifiable risk factor, is associated with an increased risk of AKI after kidney surgery. Moreover, an early identification of hypertension is of utmost importance taking into account that a strict blood pressure control, regardless of renal function at baseline, may be crucial to counteract the development or the progression of CKD.

Updates in the care and management of children and adolescents with systemic lupus erythematosus.

This narrative review offers an update of the most important recent articles published in the previous year of childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE), focusing on care and management. Age-related disparities may play a significant role in the clinical and laboratory characteristics of cSLE, as well as its performance in distinct classification criteria. Monogenic lupus is associated with higher disease damage scores and mortality rate compared to sporadic cSLE. Adolescent face unique challenges, with comorbid psychiatric diagnosis, low resilience and nonadherence posing relevant challenges. A recent international task force has outlined pivotal principles and points-to-consider for treat-to-target (T2T) in cSLE patients. While the past year did yield new randomized controlled trial for cSLE treatment, publications focused on broader management strategies, including the impact of ultraviolet radiation exposure, immunization, and strict blood pressure control. Additionally, case reports and series have evaluated the efficacy/safety profiles of both available and emerging treatments. Current studies highlighted the various facets of cSLE, epidemiology, clinical, laboratory, classification criteria, adolescent issues, prognosis, surveillance, T2T approach and drug management. Despite notable progress, the scarcity of randomized trials emphasizes the need to delineate safer and more efficacious treatment modalities in cSLE.

The Role of Blood Pressure Control in Prevention of Hematoma After Blepharoplasty.

Hematoma formation after blepharoplasty is serious and potentially vision-threatening, with hypertension being the primary risk factor. The aim of this paper is to assess perioperative blood pressure trends and rates of complication in patients undergoing a strict blood pressure protocol designed to keep perioperative systolic blood pressure below 120 mmHg. A retrospective chart review was performed of 32 patients undergoing face lift with conomitant blepharoplasty from January 2015 to July 2018. For each patient blood pressure readings obtained before, during, and after surgery were reviewed. Two-sample one-tail T-tests were performed, and p values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) for all patients was highest intraoperatively. Patients with known hypertension had higher mean SBPs than patients without hypertension across all phases of care, with a statistically significant difference in immediate preoperative SBP (p=0.05). Males had a higher average blood pressure immediately postoperatively (p=0.05). A previous diagnosis of hypertension in females was associated with a higher immediate preoperative SBP (p=0.07) as well as age over 65 (p=0.07). The overall rate of complications was 37.5%. No patients experienced hematoma. This study demonstrated that keeping blood pressure below 120 mmHg after surgery was an effective method of preventing hematoma after blepharoplasty, even in patients concurrently on anti-coagulative medications. Special attention to blood pressure control should be shown to patients with known risk factors such as a previous diagnosis of hypertension, male sex, or age greater than 65. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Combined effects of blood pressure and glucose status on the risk of chronic kidney disease

This study aimed to assess the combined effects of blood pressure (BP) and glucose status on chronic kidney disease (CKD) incidence in young and middle-aged adults. We examined data from 1,297,341 Japanese individuals aged <60 years (60.1% men; mean age 41.4 ± 9.3 years) with no history of CKD at baseline. The interval-censored Cox proportional hazards model with covariates was used. During a median follow-up period of 2.1 years, new onset CKD (estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 and/or proteinuria) occurred in 80,187 participants. In participants without antihypertensive treatment (AHT), the adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) per 1-standard deviation, that is, 15 mmHg increase in systolic BP for CKD incidence, were 1.08 (1.07–1.09), 1.12 (1.10–1.13), and 1.15 (1.12–1.18) in normoglycemia, borderline glycemia, and diabetes groups, respectively. These ratios were significantly higher in the borderline glycemia and diabetes groups compared with those in the normoglycemia group (interaction p < 0.0001). The interaction between BP and borderline glycemia was evident when the outcome definition was restricted to proteinuria. In participants under AHT, systolic BP was most strongly associated with CKD risk in the diabetes group, although no significant interaction was observed. High BP and high glucose status may synergistically increase the incidence of CKD. Strict BP management may play an important role in the early prevention of CKD in individuals with worse glucose status within the young and middle-aged population.This large-scale longitudinal cohort study showed high BP and diabetes synergistically increased the risk of CKD in individuals without AHT. Strict BP management may play an important role in the early prevention of CKD in individuals with worse glucose status within the young and middle-aged population.

Evaluation of Protective Effect of Gemigliptin and Rizatriptan in Streptozotocin induced Diabetic Neuropathy in Rats.

ABSTRACT: A typical micro-vascular consequence of diabetes mellitus is diabetic neuropathy. The prevalence of diabetic neuropathy patients is rising in spite of strict glycemic control, blood pressure, and lipid lowering medication. New prevention and treatment methods are required because of the drawbacks and side effects of current medicines. Serotonin, a neurotransmitter implicated in the transmission of pain, is being investigated for its potential to process pain and to reduce inflammatory responses. Gemigliptin and rizatriptan are being studied for the treatment of hyperglycemic mortality. In this investigation, STZ (60 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally once to cause diabetic neuropathy. Tests were conducted on the neuroprotective potential of Gemigliptin (5 mg/kg p,o) alone and in combination with variable dosages of Rizatriptan (0.5, 1 mg/kg, i.p.) administered at intervals of 72 hours and one month. According to the study, a medicine combination of gemigliptin and rizatriptan successfully reduces the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy by lowering cholesterol, triglycerides, and serum glucose levels—all of which contribute to diabetes complications. Additionally, the combination reduces nerve damage-related hyperalgesia and significantly increases locomotor activity. Oxidative stress is decreased, which helps prevent additional difficulties, and the combination raises levels of antioxidants like SOD and CAT. Overall, Gemigliptin and Rizatriptan work well together to reduce diabetic neuropathic pain.

The Impact of Pregnancy in Patients with Thoracic Aortic Disease: Epidemiology, Risk Assessment, and Management Considerations.

Thoracic aortic disease (TAD) poses substantial risks during pregnancy, particularly for women with genetic conditions such as Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, and vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. This review examines the epidemiology, risk assessment, and management of TAD in pregnancy. Preconception counseling is vital considering the hereditary nature of TAD and potential pregnancy-related complications. Genetic testing and imaging surveillance aid in risk assessment. Medical management, including beta-blockade and strict blood pressure control, is essential throughout pregnancy. Surgical interventions may be necessary in certain cases. A multidisciplinary approach involving cardiologists, obstetricians, cardiac surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other specialists with expertise in cardio-obstetrics is essential for optimal outcomes. Patient education and shared decision-making play vital roles in navigating the complexities of TAD in pregnancy and improving maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Factors associated with early readmission for postpartum hypertension

BackgroundHypertensive disorders of pregnancy are increasing in prevalence and a leading cause of early post-partum readmissions. Stricter blood pressure (BP) target goals for treatment of hypertension during pregnancy have recently been proposed, however, the treatment goals for management of post-partum hypertension are less well established. ObjectiveWe sought to evaluate the clinical factors associated with early postpartum readmissions for hypertensive disease as well as to evaluate blood pressure thresholds associated with these readmissions. Study designWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of women delivering at a tertiary care center between January 2018 and May 2022 who experienced a hospital readmission for postpartum hypertension or new onset postpartum preeclampsia. Charts were reviewed for clinical and sociodemographic data. Patients with early readmission (<72 hours after discharge) were compared with patients readmitted after three days of initial discharge. Data were analyzed using Chi-square, Student's t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and logistic regression where appropriate. The p-value <0.05 was significant. ResultsDuring the study period, 23,372 deliveries occurred. Postpartum readmission due to worsening of a known diagnosis of hypertension or new onset postpartum preeclampsia occurred in 1.1% and 0.49% respectively. Patients with early readmission were more likely to have hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) as the indication for delivery. Among patients readmitted, 93% had two or more systolic BP ≥ 140 or diastolic BP ≥ 90, and 73% had blood pressure of either systolic between 130-139 or diastolic between 80-89 within 24 hours prior to initial discharge. Only 27 patients met criteria (BP ≥ 160/110 on more than one vitals check during their hospitalization) to be started on antihypertensives prior to initial delivery discharge; of those 25 (93%) were discharged with a new prescription for an antihypertensive. After controlling for confounding variables, predischarge blood pressure between 130-140/80-90 mmHg [aOR 2.4(1.5-4.0] was associated with an increased likelihood of early readmission. ConclusionsPatients with delivery for HDP and predischarge BP ≥140/90 mmHg were less likely to have an early readmission within 3 days of initial discharge, however, patients with predischarge BP 130-139/80-89 were more likely to have an early readmission for HDP and postpartum preeclampsia. Further research is indicated to evaluate interventions to prevent postpartum readmission in patients at high risk for persistent hypertension or new onset postpartum preeclampsia.

Estimation of antihypertensive effect after initiating continuous positive airway pressure treatment in Japanese patients with sleep disordered breathing

Abstract Introduction It is true that patients with cardiovascular diseases including hypertension have already suffered from sleep disordered breathing (SDB). Furthermore, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) treatment shows antihypertensive effect by improving sympathetic nervous activity. On the other hand, we reported that CPAP treatment had a beneficial effect on hypertension, but 70% patients still remain inadequately treated. As a result, we need the strict blood pressure follow up for patient with SDB after initiating CPAP treatment at ESC congress 2022. Purpose Our aim in this study is to estimate the antihypertensive effect after initiating CPAP treatment, also estimate the differences of CPAP effect by focusing on Japanese non-obese body. Methods All patients were conducted full night polysomnography. One-hundred eighty patients showed obstructive SDB {apnea hypopnea index (AHI) &amp;gt;20/hour}, and CPAP treatment were initiated. We divided into three groups by using body mass index (BMI). Group A showed BMI &amp;lt; 25 kg/m2 (n = 59). Group B showed 25 ≦BMI &amp;lt; 30 kg/m2 (n = 68), and Group C showed 30 ≦ BMI kg/m2 (n = 53). If patients had already taken blood pressure-lowering agents, they had to continue blood pressure-lowering agents without changing other agents or dose intensification. According to Japanese society of hypertension guidelines for the managements of hypertension 2019 (JSH2019), we estimated the improvement of blood pressure to assess effectiveness of CPAP treatment after six-month follow up. Results The study group consisted of 180 SDB patients (152 males, 28 females). The mean age was 53 ± 12 years. Figure 1 showed polysomnographic data before initiating CPAP treatment. Group A was significantly lower apnea hypopnea index (AHI) than in Group B and C (p &amp;lt; 0.0001). Figure 2 showed the changes of blood pressure after initiating CPAP treatment (six-month). There was no significant difference respect to changes of systolic blood pressure (ΔSBP), but Group A showed the tendency for worsening SBP compared with other groups. Conclusions We could estimate that CPAP treatment had only limited effects in antihypertensive effect for Japanese patients, who especially had non-obese body and lower AHI level. We need the strict blood pressure follow up for patient with SDB after initiating CPAP treatment.Figure

Abstract 020: Undulating Flow Velocities as an Induced Test of Autoregulation After Thrombectomy for Acute Ischemic Stroke

Introduction Loss of autoregulation after endovascular therapy (EVT) for large‐artery acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is well documented. [1] This might result in worse outcomes, despite successful recanalization, from hyper‐ or hypoperfusion with a risk for hemorrhagic conversion or larger stroke volume, respectively. Transcranial doppler (TCD) was previously used to document this phenomenon using spontaneous fluctuations in reactivity. Herein, we present a patient with suspected obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) with undulating flow velocities on TCD, serving as a test for induced vasoreactivity with pre‐ and post‐EVT TCD. Methods A case‐report. Results A middle‐aged patient was admitted with acute left cerebellar stroke (figure 1A). An Embolic etiology was suspected and a 20‐minuteTCD was done for spontaneous emboli detection on bilateral middle cerebral arteries (MCA). The patient fell asleep during the study and it incidentally revealed a bilaterally symmetric undulating velocity, which is a pattern that was previously described with OSA as a result of vasomotor response to multiple apnea and hypopnea episodes occurring in succession (Figure 1D – Pre‐EVT). [2] This pattern indicates intact vasomotor reactivity to fluctuating O2 and CO2 levels during episodes of apnea. Six days later, the patient developed acute right MCA stroke (Figure 1B) and was treated with EVT with successful reperfusion (TICI 2B67) (Figure 1C). TCD was repeated after EVT, and the previously seen undulating pattern was lost with significantly reduced variability on the right MCA compared to the contralateral side (figure 1E – Post‐EVT). This indicates a significant reduction in vasomotor reactivity and autoregulatory capacity of the right MCA. Follow up imaging revealed hemorrhagic conversion in the bed of the stroke with intraparenchymal bleeding (PH1) (Figures 1F‐H). This case is unique since it provides an induced test of autoregulation and compares pre‐ and post‐EVT autoregulatory function. Prior reports did not use any stressors to test for autoregulation. While in this case, apnea served as a natural test for autoregulation allowing for easier detection. This can serve as a future marker that can be easily quantified and might guide post‐EVT care. Using breath holding maneuvers or medication (e.g., Acetazolamide) might be considered in the future to quantify the autoregulatory response. Further studies are required to investigate the utility of induced, instead of spontaneous, autoregulation assessment post‐EVT to guide blood pressure goals and the duration of strict blood pressure control after endovascular intervention. Conclusion Induced tests for autoregulation using TCD might be feasible and should be considered in the future as an easy method for quantifying autoregulation post‐EVT. Further studies are required to clarify the utility of this biomarker in guiding post‐EVT care.

Natural history of the distal aorta following elective root replacement in patients with Marfan syndrome

ObjectiveIt is unclear if the addition of a prophylactic arch operation is beneficial at the time of root replacement in patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS). This project aims to understand the fate of the distal aorta following elective root replacement in patients with MFS. MethodsBetween 2000 and 2019, 124 adult patients with MFS were identified as having undergone elective aortic root replacement with a clamped distal aortic anastomosis during their lifetime. Serial axial imaging was analyzed. The primary outcome was a composite of subsequent type B aortic dissection (TBAD), aneurysmal degeneration (>4 cm), and aortic reintervention. Secondary outcomes included subsequent TBAD and mortality. ResultsMean age at root replacement was 33.3 years. Median follow-up was 11.3 years. Thirty-one patients (25%) experienced the primary outcome, with no survival difference (P = .9). The crossclamp and aortic cannulation sites were stable (growth rate, 0.33 mm/year), and 2 patients (1.6%) required reintervention there. Twenty-three patients (19.8%) experienced subsequent TBAD. Patients with TBAD had a higher rate of distal degeneration (P < .001), but no significant change in survival (P = .2). Preoperative hypertension (odds ratio, 3.96; P < .05) and younger age at root replacement (odds ratio, 1.05; P < .05) increased the risk of TBAD, based on regression analysis. ConclusionsThe distal aorta (including the clamp and cannulation site) overall appears stable in patients with MFS following elective root replacement without prophylactic arch operation. Development of TBAD seems to be the primary driver of distal degeneration. Factors associated with TBAD development included hypertension, underscoring the importance of strict blood pressure control in these patients.

Exploring flexible methods for national health examination surveys in Germany

Abstract Background National health examination surveys (HES) are rarely carried out due to high costs and high complexity. We piloted more flexible methods such as self-sampling, self-measurements and household visits conducted by a study-nurse replacing physician examinations in study centers. Methods Feasibility of several new methods for the German HES was tested, e.g.: large-scale implementation of unattended self-sampled dried blood spots (DBS) and oral-nasal swabs (ONS) in a countrywide general population panel including a large subsample with migration background (Study 1, n = 15,122); household visits with brief biosampling &amp; examinations (Study 2, n = 470); and unattended blood pressure (BP) self-measurements with mailed devices and video instructions (Study 3, n = 202). Results Among participants consenting to participate, Study 1 showed successful postal self-sampling of DBS for SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests in 98% of participants and 97% valid ONS for SARS-CoV-2 PCR tests. Study 2 showed successful standardized measurements of BP (97%), weight/height (99%) and DBS and venous blood sampling with onsite whole blood centrifugation (97%). Temperature requirements for centrifugation, cooled transport and ATC-coded medication assessment (Anatomical Chemical Classification) proved challenging and needed revised methods to avoid data loss. Nested validation studies confirmed use of a multiplex assay for various antibodies with DBS and of HbA1c analysis with uncooled specimen. The strict and time-consuming BP self-measurement-protocol with 12 measurements in Study 3 was followed only by 54% of participants. Conclusions Self-sampling and biosampling &amp; examinations in households are feasible options for HES but protocols with high complexity may result in low data completeness.

Successful conservative treatment for left ventricular free wall rupture after acute myocardial infarction

Left ventricular free wall rupture (LVFWR) is a rare but fatal complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). An 81-year-old female patient with several cardiovascular risk factors presented to the emergency department with symptoms of developing a chronic stomachache and cold sweat. An echocardiograph showed wall motion abnormalities from the lateral to posterior wall, as well as pericardial effusion containing clots of up to 17 mm in the posterior wall that indicated LVFWR after AMI. Although she was conscious after being brought to the initial care unit, she suddenly lost consciousness and fell into electromechanical dissociation (EMD). Endotracheal intubation was immediately initiated and her pericardial drainage and intra aortic balloon pump (IABP) placement, and hemodynamics recovered. Although she had 100% obstruction in the left circumflex artery (LCX) #12 on coronary angiography (CAG), she was discharged to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) without percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Conservative treatment such as intubation, sedation, pericardiocentesis and strict blood pressure management as well as treatment by IABP long-term support led to the patient being uneventfully discharged after 60 days.

Efficacy and Safety Outcomes for Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Treated with Intravenous Infusion of Tirofiban After Emergent Carotid Artery Stenting

IntroductionEmergent stenting of the extracranial internal carotid artery (ICA) in stroke patients requires antiplatelet therapy to prevent in-stent thrombosis with a higher risk of intracranial haemorrhage.Aim of the StudyAssess the efficacy and safety of emergent carotid stenting with intravenous tirofiban in acute ischemic stroke patients.MethodsPrimary endpoint: symptomatic hemorrhage. Secondary endpoints: 90-day functional outcome and mortality.ResultsOf the 62 patients, 21 (34%) received tirofiban as a single antiplatelet, and 41 (66%) received combined therapy. Premedication with anticoagulants and antiplatelets was significantly more frequent in the tirofiban-only group. The rate of symptomatic haemorrhage was significantly lower in the tirofiban-only group than in the combined group (4.8% vs. 27%, p = 0.046). The patients with tirofiban alone had a significantly better functional outcome at day 90 than the combined group (52% vs. 24%, p = 0.028). Mortality was equal (24%) in both groups. Pre-interventional NIHSS score (p = 0.003), significant blood pressure fluctuations (p = 0.012), tandem occlusion (p = 0.023), and thrombolysis (p = 0.044) showed relevant influence on the rate of symptomatic hemorrhage in the entire patient cohort.ConclusionsA single antiplatelet therapy with tirofiban regardless of the premedication may improve the functional outcome in patients with stroke due to acute extracranial carotid lesion and emergent carotid stenting with lower rates of serious intracranial haemorrhage.For patients with high pre-interventional NIHSS score, tandem occlusion and after pre-interventional thrombolysis, caution is advised. Additionally, strict blood pressure monitoring should be conducted during the first 72 h after intervention.