Underwent Revascularization Therapy Research Articles

Prognostic Role of Neutrophil Percentage-to-Albumin Ratio in Patients with Non-ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction.

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate whether neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) levels on admission have prognostic significance regarding one-year major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) in non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) patients. Materials and Methods: A total of 464 patients aged 59.2 ± 11.6 years constituted the cohort of this retrospectively designed study. Considering a 1-year follow-up period, the patients were divided into two groups: those with MACCEs and those without. The complete blood count, serum C-reactive protein and serum albumin levels were measured at admission. The NPAR, C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR) and systemic immune-inflammation (SII) index were calculated for all patients, and the associations of these inflammatory-based biomarkers with 1-year MACCEs were evaluated. Results: During the 12-month follow-up period, MACCEs were observed in 75 (16.2%) patients, of which 35 (7.5%) patients died. The patients with MACCEs had higher CRP (p < 0.001), a higher percentage of neutrophils (p < 0.001), lower albumin levels (p < 0.001), a higher CAR (p < 0.001), a higher SII index (p = 0.008) and a higher NPAR (p < 0.001). A high anatomical SxSI score, a high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, hypoalbuminemia, high neutrophil counts, a high NPAR level and a high CAR level were independent predictors for one-year MACCEs (all p < 0.05). The NPAR (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.775, p < 0.001) and albumin level (AUC = 0.708, p < 0.001) had better and sufficient discriminatory power and predictive accuracy in determining one-year MACCEs, when compared to the neutrophil (AUC = 0.693, p < 0.001), CAR (AUC = 0.639, p < 0.001) and SII index (AUC = 0.660, p < 0.001), in terms of the receiver operating characteristic curve. The DeLong test revealed that the predictive performance of the NPAR was superior to that of the other inflammatory parameters. In particular, individuals with an NPAR value greater than 17.6 were at greater risk of developing MACCEs (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The NPAR can be used as a newly identified promising inflammatory biomarker to predict one-year MACCEs in NSTEMI patients undergoing revascularization therapy.

Prognostic significance of serum inflammatory markers in patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing revascularization therapy.

This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic significance of serum inflammatory factor levels in patients with acute ischemic stroke undergoing revascularization therapy. The study included 94 patients with acute ischemic stroke who underwent revascularization therapy at our hospital. The primary outcome was the modified Rankin scale (mRS) score assessed three months post-treatment. Patients were categorized into two groups: those with a poor prognosis (mRS score > 2) and those with a good prognosis (mRS score≤2). The patients were divided into two groups based on the type of revascularization treatment received: thrombus extraction or intravenous thrombolysis. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors associated with the prognosis of patients treated with recanalization for acute ischemic stroke. Among the 94 patients, 59 had a good prognosis, and 35 had a poor prognosis. At admission, the patients in the good prognosis group exhibited lower NIHSS scores, shorter hospital stays, fewer previous cardiac events, lower LDL levels, fasting glucose, IL-6, and TNF-a compared to those in the poor prognosis group (all P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis identified TNF-a (odd ratio (OD), 1.623; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.282-1.933; P = 0.035) and IL-6 (OD, 1.055; 95% CI, 1.024-1.088, P = 0.023) as independent risk factors for poor prognosis in patients after revascularization. Additionally, pre-hospital NIHSS scores, IL-6, and TNF-a levels were significantly lower in the good prognosis group compared to the poor prognosis group, with these differences being statistically significant. IL-6 and TNF-α may serve as prognostic markers for outcomes following revascularization therapy in patients with acute ischemic stroke, including those receiving intravenous thrombolysis.

Abstract 063: A Scoping Review of Drug‐Induced Hypertension in the Endovascular Thrombectomy Era

Introduction Since 2015, endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) has become the gold standard for treating large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke (LVO‐AIS). Drug‐induced hypertension (DIH) shows promise in enhancing collateral blood flow to the ischemic penumbra, particularly in LVO‐AIS patients with larger penumbral tissue volumes compared to other stroke subtypes. Despite its potential, current AIS guidelines lack specific recommendations regarding the use of DIH in patients undergoing recanalization therapy. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing evidence on DIH in AIS within the context of the EVT era. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search of five electronic databases, supplemented by gray literature, to identify studies on DIH in AIS between 2015 and 2024. Data extraction focused on key variables including study design, patient population, target blood pressure (BP), pharmacological agents used, dosage, timing and duration of intervention, recanalization strategies (intravenous thrombolysis, EVT), DIH's impact on outcomes, and associated adverse effects. Results Seven studies were identified, with sample sizes ranging from 50 to 218 participants (median: 136). Of these, four were retrospective, and three were randomized controlled trials. Two studies focused on patients with lacunar stroke, two on patients with early neurological deterioration, and three on a broader AIS subpopulation. Three studies specifically targeted patients ineligible for recanalization therapy, three included a mixed population of both recanalization and non‐recanalization patients, and only one exclusively studied patients eligible for EVT. Notably, none of the studies involving recanalization therapy detailed the timing of DIH initiation relative to the therapy. The most common target BP was a 20% increase from baseline systolic BP (observed in 4/7 studies). Phenylephrine infusion was the most frequently used agent (4/7 studies), followed by norepinephrine (2/7 studies). Four studies reported achieving primary efficacy outcomes of DIH, including improved functional status and early neurological improvement. Safety outcomes and adverse effects were not associated with DIH in three of the four studies that evaluated these factors. Conclusion The current evidence on DIH for AIS in the EVT era remains inconclusive, particularly concerning its benefit in patients undergoing revascularization therapy. Although achieving a 20% increase in baseline systolic BP with phenylephrine infusion is a commonly utilized approach, the variability in protocols and lack of standardized guidelines underscore the need for further research. To establish a definitive role for DIH, well‐designed, prospective studies, with specific focus on timing, AIS subtypes, and standardization of intervention protocols are required.

Yield of Whole Body Computed Tomography in Hyper-Acute Stroke Patients With Large Vessel Occlusion.

In the majority of cases, large vessel occlusion (LVO) in ischemic stroke patients has an embolic origin. Systemic embolism can occur simultaneously with brain thrombosis. This retrospective study evaluated the frequency and locations of systemic embolism in LVO stroke patients receiving revascularization therapy. In our facility, we use contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-CT) to assess suspected stroke patients and routinely perform CE-CT from the chest to the abdomen after brain CT angiography to rule out contraindications like aortic dissection and trauma for thrombolysis. Systemic embolism is also assessed using these images, while myocardial infarction is evaluated based on electrocardiograms and laboratory findings. Other relevant clinical features of each patient are also analyzed. In total, 612 consecutively admitted stroke patients and 32 LVO patients who underwent revascularization therapy were included in the present study. Systemic embolism was identified in four patients (13%). The spleen was the most commonly affected organ, followed by the heart, kidneys, limbs, and lungs. All four patients with systemic embolism exhibited LVO resulting from embolism as the underlying mechanism. Systemic embolism was observed in 13% of our LVO patients, all of whom had LVO of embolic origin.

HbA1c-based rather than fasting plasma glucose-based definitions of prediabetes identifies high-risk patients with angiographic coronary intermediate lesions: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundPrediabetes is common and associated with poor prognosis in patients with acute coronary syndrome and those undergoing revascularization. However, the impact of prediabetes on prognosis in patients with coronary intermediate lesions remains unclear. The objective of the current study is to explore the impact of prediabetes and compare the prognostic value of the different definitions of prediabetes in patients with coronary intermediate lesions.MethodsA total of 1532 patients attending Fuwai hospital (Beijing, China), with intermediate angiographic coronary lesions, not undergoing revascularization, were followed-up from 2013 to 2021. Patients were classified as normal glucose tolerance (NGT), prediabetes and diabetes according to various definitions based on HbA1c or admission fasting plasma glucose (FPG). The primary endpoint was defined as major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), the composite endpoint of all-cause death, non-fatal myocardial infarction and repeated revascularization therapy. Multivariate cox regression model was used to explore the association between categories of abnormal glucose category and MACE risk.ResultsThe proportion of patients defined as prediabetes ranged from 3.92% to 47.06% depending on the definition used. A total of 197 MACE occurred during a median follow-up time of 6.1 years. Multivariate cox analysis showed that prediabetes according to the International Expert Committee (IEC) guideline (6.0 ≤ HbA1c < 6.5%) was associated with increased risk of MACE compared with NGT (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.705, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.143–2.543) and after confounding adjustment (HR: 1.513, 95%CI 1.005–2.277). Consistently, the best cut-off point of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) identified based on the Youden’s index was also 6%. Restricted cubic spline analysis delineated a linear positive relationship between baseline HbA1c and MACE risk. Globally, FPG or FPG-based definition of prediabetes was not associated with patients’ outcome.ConclusionsIn this cohort of patients with intermediate coronary lesions not undergoing revascularization therapy, prediabetes based on the IEC-HbA1c definition was associated with increased MACE risk compared with NGT, and may assist in identifying high-risk patients who can benefit from early lifestyle intervention.

The meaning of non-culprit stenosis in hyperacute stroke with large vessel occlusion

Background and purposeTo diagnose atherosclerotic occlusion mechanism in acute ischemic stroke patients with large vessel occlusion prior to revascularization therapy is challenging. The aim was to verify the relationship between atherosclerotic occlusion and non-culprit stenosis detected in urgent neuroimaging prior to interventional procedure. Materials and methodsThis study collected hyperacute stroke with large vessel occlusion, who underwent revascularization therapy (intravenous thrombolysis, thrombectomy, or both). An atherosclerotic occlusion was defined as an occlusion that did not recanalize or had residual stenosis at the initially occluded lesion, ensured in the second angiographic imaging performed after 1 week. The remaining patients who did not fulfill the definition of atherosclerotic occlusion was classified as embolic occlusion. A non-culprit stenosis was defined as a ≥ 50%–99% stenosis located other than the culprit occluded artery. Logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the factors independently associated with atherosclerotic occlusion. ResultsA total of 162 patients (104 men, median age 76 years old) were enrolled in our study. Forty one patients (25%) was atherosclerotic occlusion. Non-culprit stenosis was frequently observed in the atherosclerotic occlusion group than the embolic occlusion group (68% vs. 26%, P < 0.001). The presence of non-culprit stenosis was independently associated with atherosclerotic occlusion (OR, 11.00; 95% CI, 3.96–30.52; P < 0.001). ConclusionIn hyperacute stroke receiving endovascular therapy, non-culprit stenosis identification may be needed in order to perform an adequate revascularization, especially for atherosclerotic occlusion.

Abstract WP117: Post-procedural Screening With ROTEM For Risk Of Hemorrhage Following Revascularization Therapy For Acute Ischemic Stroke

Introduction: Hyperfibrinolysis is associated with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) after the use of tPA for acute ischemic stroke (AIS). Point-of-care Rotational ThromboElastoMetry (ROTEM) testing may rapidly detect hyperfibrinolysis and identify AIS patients at high risk for hemorrhage. Hypothesis: Evidence of fibrinogen depletion on ROTEM will accurately predict bleeding following revascularization therapy for AIS. Methods: We reviewed medical records of AIS patients who underwent revascularization therapy between 2019-2020. All patients underwent ROTEM testing post-procedure to facilitate targeted blood product transfusion should hemorrhage occur. However, transfusion was not performed prophylactically. Repeat imaging with dual-energy CT was performed within 24 hours. A quality control registry of all AIS patients who undergo revascularization is maintained for purposes of Joint Commission certification. All variables, including ROTEM values and occurrence of intra- and extracranial hemorrhage, were entered prospectively. We examined the predictive value of a FIBTEM-A10 &lt;10mm for post-procedural hemorrhage. Results: A total of 52 patients were included. Median age was 68 years (Interquartile Range, IQR 60-83), and median admission NIHSS was 16 (IQR 10-20). Thirty-four patients (65%) received tPA, 46 (88%) received mechanical thrombectomy, and 28 (54%) received both. Median post-procedure FIBTEM-A10 was 16mm (IQR 14-22); 5 patients had values &lt;10mm. Overall, 19 (37%) suffered radiographic ICH, 5 (10%) symptomatic ICH, and 3 (6%) extracranial hemorrhage. FIBTEM-A10 &lt;10mm had sensitivity 17% and specificity 97% for any post-procedural hemorrhage. For symptomatic ICH, sensitivity was 0% and specificity 89%. Conclusions: The use of ROTEM to identify hyperfibrinolysis following AIS revascularization therapy achieved poor sensitivity and high specificity for prediction of any post-procedural hemorrhage, but was inaccurate for the prediction of symptomatic ICH.

Determinants of the Downward Trend in Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery Among Patients With Multivessel Disease and Class-I Indication for Surgery.

IntroductionCoronary artery bypass graft (CABG) is the most effective coronary revascularization procedure, and it has been endorsed by many trials and studies over the years. However, due to CABG's immediate adverse effects, patients tend to prefer percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for coronary revascularization over it. This article focuses on the recent downtrend in CABG procedures for revascularization among patients for whom it is indicated. This study’s main objective was to identify the factors responsible for the downtrend in patients undergoing CABG despite a clear indication for it in those with multivessel diseases.MethodsThis study was conducted at the Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan, from August 1, 2020, to January 1, 2021. A total of 340 patients with a class-I indication (presence of conditions regarding which there is evidence and/or general agreement that a given procedure or treatment is beneficial, useful, and effective) for CABG were enrolled in the study. Data related to all the variables were collected from patients and hospital records through an adequately designed proforma. For analysis, we applied the chi-square test to elaborate on the data for information and point biserial correlation to rule out the effect of age and weight on CABG’s downward trend.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 58.77 ± 9.54 years; 65.88% were male, and 34.12% were female. Only 17.65% of the patients underwent CABG; 71.47% opted for medical treatment, and 9.41% underwent PCI. Out of the 280 patients who did not undergo CABG, 26.76% had financial issues; 23.82% were high-risk patients and hence refused surgeries by the surgeons; 20.59% of patients were not willing to undergo surgery; 7.94% were on the waiting list, and 3.24% had deranged renal function tests (RFTs).ConclusionsA limited number of patients underwent revascularization therapy even though they had clear indications for CABG. The high-risk status of patients, patients' unwillingness, and the cost of the procedure were the primary reasons behind the downtrend in CABG procedures among patients with a clear indication for the same.

Elevated Glycated Albumin in Serum Is Associated with Adverse Cardiac Outcomes in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Who Underwent Revascularization Therapy.

Aims: The associations between increased glycated albumin (GA) in the serum and diabetic complications and mortality have been revealed in the general population. However, less is known regarding the prognostic value of GA in patients diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: In this study, all patients admitted for ACS who underwent a successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at our center from January 2018 to February 2019 were retrospectively examined. Clinical characteristics, laboratory results (e.g., serum GA levels), and procedural details were collected. The primary outcome included a composite of major adverse cardio-cerebral events (MACCE), such as death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and unplanned revascularization. The association between serum GA levels and clinical outcomes was tested in three multivariable models using Cox proportional hazard analysis. Subgroup analysis was performed in patients who were diagnosed with diabetes versus patients without diabetes. Results: A total of 1,806 ACS patients (mean age of 59.4 years; 77.8% were men; 44.9% were diagnosed with diabetes) were enrolled in this study, where the majority exhibited unstable angina (81.6%) and showed preserved left ventricular systolic function. Patients in the high GA level group were commonly female and were more likely to have metabolic disorders and to exhibit severe CAD (all p ＜0.05). MACCE occurred in 126 patients (7.0%) during a mean follow-up time of 17.2 months. The cumulative risk of MACCE at the 18-month follow-up visit significantly increased in a stepwise fashion along with increased GA levels (log-rank p =0.018) in the serum. The association between serum GA levels and MACCE was further determined after adjusting traditional risk factors and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (GA, per 1% increase: hazard ratio [HR] 1.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.06–1.13; GA, higher vs. lower tertial: HR 1.92, 95% CI 1.01–3.67). In a subgroup analysis, the prognostic role of serum GA only existed in diabetic patients, even when adjusting for traditional risk factors and HbA1c levels. Conclusions: Elevated GA levels in the serum were associated with poor intermediate-term outcomes in low-risk ACS patients who underwent PCI, especially in patients with preexisting diabetes.

Optimal Timing of Venoarterial-Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients Suffering From Refractory Cardiogenic Shock.

Although there is an increase in the use of mechanical circulatory support devices to rescue patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by refractory cardiogenic shock (CS), the optimal timing of the application remains controversial. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes between venoarterial-extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) insertion before and after coronary revascularization in AMI patients with refractory CS. A total of 253 patients with AMI who underwent revascularization therapy with VA-ECMO were included. The study population was stratified into extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (E-CPR) before revascularization (N=106, reference cohort) and refractory CS without E-CPR before revascularization (n=147, comparison cohort). Patients with refractory CS but without E-CPR before revascularization were further divided into VA-ECMO before revascularization (N=50) and VA-ECMO after revascularization (n=97). The primary endpoint was a composite of in-hospital mortality, left ventricular assist device implantation, and heart transplantation. The primary endpoint occurred in 60 patients (40.8%) of the comparison cohort and 51 patients (48.1%) of the reference cohort. Among the comparison cohort, the primary endpoint was significantly lower in VA-ECMO before revascularization than in VA-ECMO after revascularization (32.0% vs. 49.5%, OR 0.480, 95% CI 0.235-0.982, P=0.045). A similar trend was observed after a 1-year follow up. Early initiation of VA-ECMO before revascularization therapy might improve clinical outcomes in patients with AMI complicated by refractory CS.

Intraaortic Balloon Pump Counterpulsation, Part I: History, Technical Aspects, Physiologic Effects, Contraindications, Medical Applications/Outcomes.

Intraaortic balloon pump counterpulsation is the most common form of mechanical circulatory support used in patients with myocardial ischemia and cardiogenic shock. The physiologic principles of counterpulsation include diastolic augmentation of aortic pressure and systolic reduction of left ventricular afterload, resulting in hemodynamic benefits through increased coronary perfusion pressure and improved myocardial oxygen balance in patients with myocardial ischemia. Major trials have failed to conclusively demonstrate improvements in morbidity and mortality with counterpulsation therapy for patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI), cardiogenic shock, and/or severe coronary artery disease undergoing revascularization therapy, and the debate over its applications continues. Part I of this review focuses on the history of the development of counterpulsation, technical considerations, and complications associated with its use, its physiologic effects, and evidence for its use in myocardial ischemia and cardiogenic shock.

One-year limb outcome and mortality in patients undergoing revascularization therapy for acute limb ischemia: short-term results of the Edo registry.

The present study aimed to clarify the current status, therapeutic strategy, and 1-year outcome in acute limb ischemia (ALI) patients in Japan. The EnDOvascular treatment (Edo) registry database includes 324 patients from 10 institutes who were registered between November 2011 and October 2013. A total of 70 ALI patients (mean age 74.0years) from the Edo registry database were enrolled in this study. Of the 70 included patients, 72.9% were male and 35.7% had embolism. Of patients, 38.6%, 42.9%, and 18.6% underwent EVT, surgery, and hybrid thrombectomy, respectively, in primary revascularization strategy. Limb ischemia was categorized into four classes at initial evaluation: SVS/ISCVS class I (n = 13, 18.6%), SVS/ISCVS class IIa (n = 36, 51.4%), SVS/ISCVS class IIb (n = 21, 30%), and SVS/ISCVS class III (n = 0, 0%). Three patients with SVS/ISCVS class IIb limb ischemia developed myonephropathic metabolic syndrome. No catheter-directed thrombolysis was employed as a primary revascularization strategy. The 1-year rates of all-cause death, major amputation, and a composite of perioperative death or major adverse limb event were 28.6%, 5.7%, and 40.0%, respectively. Lower age, male sex, dyslipidemia, high estimated glomerular filtration rate, high albumin level, and low C-reactive protein level were independent positive predictors of all-cause death. In this registry, SVS/ISCVS class IIa ALI was predominant. Approximately 40% of primary revascularization strategy was surgery and EVT, followed by hybrid therapy. All-cause death and major amputation rates at 1 year were less than 30% and 6%, respectively.

Effect of Statin Therapy on Outcomes of Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke and Atrial Fibrillation.

BackgroundThere is insufficient evidence on the effect of statins, particularly high‐intensity statins, in patients with acute ischemic stroke and atrial fibrillation. We investigated the impact of statins on the outcomes in these patients, including those who might be vulnerable to statin therapy and those without clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.Methods and ResultsA total of 2153 patients with acute ischemic stroke and atrial fibrillation were enrolled in the present nationwide, multicenter, cohort study. The primary composite end point was the occurrence of net adverse clinical and cerebral events (NACCE; death from any cause, stroke, acute coronary syndrome, or major bleeding) over a 3‐year period based on statin intensity. NACCE rates were lower in patients receiving low‐ to moderate‐intensity (adjusted hazard ratio 0.64; 95% CI: 0.52‐0.78) and high‐intensity statins (hazard ratio 0.51; 95% CI 0.40‐0.66) than in those not receiving statin therapy. High‐intensity statins were associated with a lower risk for NACCE than low‐ to moderate‐intensity statins (hazard ratio 0.76; 95% CI 0.59‐0.96). Subgroup analyses showed that the differences in hazard ratio for 3‐year NACCE favored statin use across all subgroups, including older patients, those with low cholesterol levels, patients receiving anticoagulants, and patients without clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Magnified benefits of high‐intensity statins compared with low‐ to moderate‐intensity statins were observed in patients who underwent revascularization therapy and those under 75 years of age.ConclusionsStatins, particularly high‐intensity statins, could reduce the risk for NACCE in patients with acute ischemic stroke and atrial fibrillation; this needs to be further explored in randomized controlled trials.

Abstract WP12: Impact of the Introduction of Endovascular Treatment on Acute Ischemic Stroke Therapy in a Rural Broad Region in Japan

Background: Endovascular treatment (EVT) has been proven to be effective for selected patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS). We evaluated the effect of the introduction of EVT on outcome of AIS therapy in a rural broad region in Japan, covering an area within a radius of 80km by air ambulance. Methods: Between January 2014 and July 2016, 210 consecutive patients with acute large vessel occlusion (189 patients in the anterior circulation and 21 in the posterior circulation) admitted to our institute were analyzed. EVT was introduced into the AIS therapy at our institute in April 2015. We compared the outcome of the patients during the period before (group 1: standard medical treatment including intravenous [IV] tPA) and after (group 2: standard medical treatment including IV tPA with or without EVT) the introduction of EVT. Results: In the group 1, all 87 patients (median age, 81 years; NIHSS, 20; ASPECTS, 8; onset to door, 237min; IV tPA 24%) were treated medically (Table 1). In the group 2, among 123 patients (age, 82 years; NIHSS, 20; ASPECTS, 8; onset to door, 149min; IV tPA 16%), 47 patients were treated medically, and the remaining 76 patients underwent EVT (TICI 2b or 3, 84%). Although the median transfer distance increased (23km in the group 1 vs 30km in the group 2, p=0.028), the median time from call to admission was equivalent (42min vs 43min, p=0.93) because of the increase in the proportion of the helicopter transfer (30% vs 41%, p=0.14). The rates of patients who underwent revascularization therapy with IV tPA or EVT (24% vs 66%, p&lt;0.001) and good outcome (mRS 0 to 2) at discharge (11% vs 24%, p=0.021) increased significantly after the introduction of EVT approach. Conclusions: Our study showed that the introduction of EVT improved the outcome of the AIS therapy with significant increase in the number of patients receiving revascularization therapy. EVT in collaboration with air ambulance might expand the target area for revascularization therapy in a rural broad region.

Long-term outcomes of high-risk elderly male patients with multivessel coronary disease: optimal medical therapy versus revascularization.

BackgroundMany studies have indicated that medical therapy and percutaneous coronary intervention have similar effects in terms of the long-term prognosis of patients with stable coronary artery disease. This study investigated the effects of optimal medical therapy (OMT) and revascularization-plus-OMT in elderly patients with high-risk angina.MethodsIn this prospective non-randomized study, 241 consecutive high-risk elderly male patients (65–92 years of age) with angiographically confirmed multivessel disease were enrolled in the registry from January 2004 to April 2005. Of these, 98 patients underwent OMT and 143 underwent revascularization therapy plus OMT.ResultsAfter 6.5 years of follow-up, we found that the rate of long-term cardiac mortality was significantly higher in patients who underwent OMT than in those who underwent revascularization (6.5-year unadjusted mortality rate, 14.3% for OMT vs. 7.0% for revascularization patients; log-rank P = 0.04). However, the overall risks of major adverse cardiac cerebrovascular events (MACCE) were similar among all patients (6.5-year unadjusted mortality rate, 29.6% for OMT vs. 27.3% for revascularization patients; log-rank P = 0.67).ConclusionsOMT was associated with an increase in cardiac death but a similar 6.5-year risk of MACCE compared with revascularization in high-risk elderly male patients with coronary multivessel disease.

Effect of Early Statin Treatment in Patients with Cardiogenic Shock Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction

Background and ObjectivesThe benefit of early statin treatment following acute myocardial infarction (MI) complicated with cardiogenic shock (CS) has not been well studied. We sought to assess the effect of early statin therapy in patients with CS complicating acute MI.Subjects and MethodsWe studied 553 statin-naive patients with acute MI and CS (Killip class IV) who underwent revascularization therapy between November 2005 and January 2008 at 51 hospitals in the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry. Patients were divided into 2 groups: those who received statins during hospitalization (n=280) and those who did not (n=273). The influence of statin treatment on a 12-month clinical outcome was examined using a matched-pairs analysis (n=200 in each group) based on the propensity for receiving statin therapy during hospitalization.ResultsBefore adjustment, patients receiving statin, compared to those not receiving statin, had a more favorable clinical profile, were less likely to suffer procedural complications, and more likely to receive adequate medical therapy. Patients receiving statin had lower unadjusted in-hospital mortality and composite rate of mortality, MI, and repeat revascularization at 12 months, which remained significantly lower after adjustment for patient risk, procedural characteristics, and treatment propensity.ConclusionIn CS patients with acute MI undergoing revascularization therapy, early statin treatment initiated during hospitalization was associated with lower rates of in-hospital death and 12-month adverse cardiac events.

Outcomes of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Intermediate Coronary Artery Disease: Fractional Flow Reserve–Guided Versus Intravascular Ultrasound–Guided

This study sought to evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of a fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) strategy compared with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)-guided PCI for intermediate coronary lesions. Both FFR- and IVUS-guided PCI strategies have been reported to be safe and effective in intermediate coronary lesions. The study included 167 consecutive patients, with intermediate coronary lesions evaluated by FFR or IVUS (FFR-guided, 83 lesions vs. IVUS-guided, 94 lesions). Cutoff value of FFR in FFR-guided PCI was 0.80, whereas that for minimal lumen cross sectional area in IVUS-guided PCI was 4.0 mm(2). The primary outcome was defined as a composite of major adverse cardiac events including death, myocardial infarction, and ischemia-driven target vessel revascularization at 1 year after the index procedure. Baseline percent diameter stenosis and lesion length were similar in both groups (51 +/- 8% and 24 +/- 12 mm in the FFR group vs. 52 +/- 8% and 24 +/- 13 mm in the IVUS group, respectively). However, the IVUS-guided group underwent revascularization therapy significantly more often (91.5% vs. 33.7%, p < 0.001). No significant difference was found in major adverse cardiac event rates between the 2 groups (3.6% in FFR-guided PCI vs. 3.2% in IVUS-guided PCI). Independent predictors for performing intervention were guiding device: FFR versus IVUS (relative risk [RR]: 0.02); left anterior descending coronary artery versus non-left anterior descending coronary artery disease (RR: 5.60); and multi- versus single-vessel disease (RR: 3.28). Both FFR- and IVUS-guided PCI strategy for intermediate coronary artery disease were associated with favorable outcomes. The FFR-guided PCI reduces the need for revascularization of many of these lesions.

Abstract 2007: Effects of Myocardial Viability Assessed by Strain Stress Echocardiography on Diastolic Function in Acute Myocardial Infarction

Purpose: Myocardial viability may influence the diastolic function of left ventricle (LV) reflecting chamber remodeling in the early phase after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, the precise relationship in human has not been determined yet. So we aimed to evaluate whether myocardial viability assessed by strain rate parameters on low-dose dobutamine echocardiography (LD-DSE) may influence on LV diastolic function and remodeling process in AMI. Methods: In this prospective single center study, 134 consecutive patients with AMI and akinetic wall motion in at least two segments were enrolled and underwent LD-DSE on 5~9 days after the event. Myocardial viability was quantitatively evaluated by global peak systolic strain rate (psSR) and global time to peak of psSR. Within 6 hours after LD-DSE, left and right heart catheterization with the recording of LV end diastolic pressure and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were performed. And then 6 months later, echocardiography and thallium scan with delayed image were followed. Results: Patients (67.9% men, mean age 60.1±1.1years, 54.5% anterior wall, 53.7% ST-segment elevation) were tolerated LD-DSE without significant complications. 71.6% of patients underwent revascularization therapy. After 6 months later, LV ejection fraction was significantly increased from 48.7±1.1% to 52.0±1.1% (p=0.00) and LV end diastolic volume was significantly decreased from 94.6±4.0cc to 89.1±3.8cc (p=0.00). As we expected, global psSR at baseline of LD-DSE showed significant linear correlations with LV end diastolic pressure, E/E’ ratio and left atrial volume index (r=−0.43 and p=0.01, r=0.52 and p=0.00 and r=0.52 and p=0.00, respectively). And also global psSR at 10mcg of LD-DSE correlated with E/E’ ratio and left atrial volume index(r=0.52 and p=0.00 and r=0.36 and p=0.02, respectively). Interestingly, global psSR at 10mcg of LD-DSE correlated significantly with the change of LV end diastolic volume during 6 months follow-up (r=−0.42 and p=0.04). Conclusions: Strain rate data on LD-DSE correlates with LV diastolic function in the early phase and chamber remodeling in 6 months follow-up after AMI. So strain stress echocardiography may provide useful prognostic information for LV remodeling in AMI.

Prognostic significance of asymptomatic coronary artery disease in patients with diabetes and need for early revascularization therapy

Information on the clinical outcome of patients with diabetes with silent myocardial ischaemia is limited. We compared the clinical and angiographic characteristics, and the clinical outcomes of diabetic patients with asymptomatic or symptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD). Three hundred and ten consecutive diabetic patients with CAD were divided into two groups according to the presence of angina and followed for a mean of 5 years. Fifty-six asymptomatic patients with a positive stress test and CAD on coronary angiography were compared with 254 symptomatic patients, 167 with unstable angina and 87 with chronic stable angina. Although the severity of coronary atherosclerosis was similar in asymptomatic and symptomatic patients, revascularization therapy was performed less frequently in the asymptomatic than the symptomatic patients (26.8 vs. 62.0%; P < 0.001). Asymptomatic patients experienced a similar number of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs; death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and revascularization; 32 vs. 28%; P = 0.57), but had higher cardiac mortality than symptomatic patients (26 vs. 9%; P < 0.001). However, patients who underwent revascularization therapy at the time of CAD diagnosis in these two groups showed similar MACE and cardiac mortality (20.0 vs. 22.5%, 6.7 vs. 5.3%, respectively; all P > 0.05). This study suggests that diabetic patients with asymptomatic CAD have a higher cardiac mortality risk than those with symptomatic CAD, and that lack of revascularization therapy may be responsible for the poorer survival.

ＭＲＩ拡散強調画像（ＤＷＩ）による急性期脳主幹動脈閉塞の診断と血行再建の適応について

We have investigated the diffusion-weighted MR imaging (DWI) findings of 40 patients with acute occlusion of internal carotid artery or middle cerebral artery on admission. According to the extent of high intensity areas (HIAs), DWI findings were classified into 4 types, type 1: no detection of HIAs, type 2: detection of HIAs in perforator's territory, type 3: detection of HIAs of limited part of cerebral cortex, type 4: detection of extended HIAs. 4 patients of type 1 were examined within 2 hours after onset. The earliest case with HIA detected by DWI was examined 30 min. after onset. The detection of HIAs on DWI was correlated well to the CBF values obstained by 99m Tc-HMPAO SPECT. HIA was detected exclusive-ly in the hypoperfused area where CBF value was under 20 ml/100 g/min. All 16 patients of type 4 were received conservative therapy, because CBF value on HIAs was very low (0-14 ml/100 g/min.) as irreversible lesions. 14 of 24 patients of type 1-3 underwent revascularization therapy in acute phase and had good results. Some of type 1-3 patients had the indication of revascularization therapy. We concluded that DWI classificasion could be useful for selecting a candidate for revascularization therapy in acute phase.