Nicorandil Reduces the Incidence of Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Patients Undergoing Coronary Angiography/Intervention - Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Including GRADE Qualification

BACKGROUND

Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is associated with increased mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We aimed to assess the latest evidence on the effect of nicorandil on the incidence of CIN in patients undergoing CAG/PCI.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search on topics that assessed nicorandil and CIN in CAG/PCI patients from inception up until November 2019 through several electronic databases.

RESULTS

There were a total of 1532 subjects from 7 randomized controlled trials. Nicorandil was associated with decrease CIN incidence (OR 0.31 [0.20, 0.46], p < 0.001; I2: 0%). Funnel plot was asymmetrical, indicating the risk of publication bias. Oral administration (OR 0.29 [0.18, 0.46], p < 0.001; I2: 0%) has a greater efficacy compared to intravenous route (OR 0.40 [0.17, 0.93], p < 0.001; I2: 73%). Pooled analysis of adjusted OR revealed that nicorandil reduced CIN incidence independent to other factors in the respective studies (OR 0.34 [0.16, 0.74], p = 0.006, I2: 75%). Protection against CIN (OR 0.37 [0.22, 0.61], p < 0.001; I2: 22%) was also demonstrated in renal dysfunction subgroup, pooled adjusted OR showed that the effect is independent (OR 0.30 [0.10, 0.90], p = 0.03, I2: 86%). GRADE assessment showed moderate level of certainty for the CIN reducing effect of nicorandil in both unadjusted and adjusted models with an absolute reduction of 85 per 1000 and 87 per 1000. Harbord test showed no evidence of small-study effects (p = 0.866).

CONCLUSION

Nicorandil is associated with a lower risk of CIN in patients undergoing CAG/PCI with a moderate level of certainty.

Intravitreal ranibizumab versus dexamethasone implant in macular edema due to branch retinal vein occlusion: Systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Intravitreal ranibizumab (RNB) and dexamethasone intravitreal implant (DII) were developed in the recent past and has been widely used for macular edema secondary to BRVO. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of intravitreal ranibizumab (RNB) compared to dexamethasone intravitreal implant (DII) in patients with macular edema secondary to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search on topics that assess RNB and DII in patients with macular edema secondary to BRVO from several electronic databases.

RESULTS

There were 678 subjects from five studies. Ranibizumab was associated with a greater increase in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA; mean difference 9.13, I2: 0%) compared to DII. Ranibizumab also demonstrated a greater ⩾10 (OR 2.76, I2: 0%) and ⩾15 letters (OR 2.78, I2: 0%) gain. RNB has better BCVA (logMAR scale) improvement at 6 months' follow up (mean difference -0.15, I2: 64%) in favor of RNB. Higher IOP was found in DII group on follow-up (mean difference -2.92, I2: 89%) and RNB has lesser IOP ⩾10 mmHg increase compared to DII (OR 0.08, I2: 0%). Cataract formation and/or progression was less in RNB (OR 0.53, I2: 75%). The need for rescue laser was similar the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Intravitreal RNB was more effective with less pronounced effect on IOP and cataract formation and/or progression compared to DII for patients with macular edema secondary to BRVO.

Absence of electrocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy and poor outcome in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement-A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate whether the absence of electrocardiographic (ECG) left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was associated with poor outcome in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

METHODS

We performed systematic review search on PubMed, Embase, and Scopus up until January 22, 2021. The key exposure was the absence of ECG LVH, defined as the absence of LVH by electrocardiographic criteria. The outcome of interest was composite poor outcome, which is a composite of mortality and/or rehospitalization after TAVR. The effect estimate was reported as hazard ratio (HR). In addition, we generate sensitivity and specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratio (PLR and NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under curve (AUC).

RESULTS

There are four studies comprising of 827 patients included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The prevalence of poor outcome in this pooled analysis was 30%. The absence of ECG LVH was associated with increased poor outcome in patients undergoing TAVR (HR: 1.86, [1.34, 2.57], p < .001; I2 : 0%). Absence of ECG LVH was associated with a sensitivity of 0.75 [0.64, 0.83], specificity of 0.42 [0.30, 0.55], PLR of 1.3 [1.1, 1.5], NLR of 0.60 [0.45, 0.80], DOR 2 [1, 5], and AUC of 0.66 [0.62, 0.70]. Fagan's nomogram indicates in a 22% prevalence of poor outcome in the included studies, the absence of ECG LVH and ECG LVH was associated with 27% and 15% posttest probability for poor outcome, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Absence of ECG LVH was associated with poor outcome in patients undergoing TAVR.

Fragmented QRS is associated with intraventricular dyssynchrony and independently predicts nonresponse to cardiac resynchronization therapy-Systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Fragmented QRS (fQRS) is postulated to be associated with ventricular dyssynchrony and might be able to predict a nonresponse to cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) implantation. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we aim to assess whether fQRS can be a marker of intraventricular dyssynchronies in patients with ischemic and nonischemic cardiomyopathy and whether it is an independent predictor of nonresponse in patients receiving CRT.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search on topics that assesses fQRS and its association with intraventricular dyssynchrony and nonresponse to CRT up until September 2019.

RESULTS

Fragmented QRS is associated with intraventricular dyssynchrony (OR 10.34 [3.39, 31.54], p < .001; I2 : 80% with sensitivity 76.8%, specificity 77%, LR+ 3.3, and LR- 0.3). Subgroup analysis showed that fQRS is associated with intraventricular dyssynchrony in patients with narrow QRS complex (OR 20.92 [12.24, 35.73], p < .001; I2 : 0%) and nonischemic cardiomyopathy (OR of 19.97 [12.12, 32.92], p < .001; I2 : 0%). Fragmented QRS was also associated with a higher time-to-peak myocardial sustained systolic (Ts-SD) (OR 15.19 [12.58, 17.80], p < .001; I2 : 0% and positive Yu index (OR 15.61 [9.07, 26.86], p < .001; I2 : 0%). Fragmented QRS has a pooled adjusted OR of OR of 1.70 [1.35, 2.14], p < .001; I2 : 62% for association with a nonresponse to CRT. QRS duration is found to be higher in nonresponders group mean difference -8.54 [-13.38, -3.70], p < .001; I2 : 70%.

CONCLUSION

Fragmented QRS is associated with intraventricular dyssynchrony and is independently associated with nonresponse to cardiac resynchronization therapy.

Intravitreal conbercept improves outcome in patients undergoing vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the latest evidence concerning the efficacy of conbercept on vitrectomy for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and its efficacy compared to control and other antivascular endothelial growth factor.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search on topics that assess the role of conbercept in patients undergoing vitrectomy for PDR from inception to November 2019, using PubMed, EuropePMC, Cochrane Central Database, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, and Clinicaltrials.gov. Two researchers independently searched literature, extracted data, and evaluated the risk of bias. RevMan 5.3 and StataMP 16 software were used to perform data analysis.

RESULTS

There were 699 cases (eyes) from eight studies. Baseline best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was better in the control group compared to conbercept group (mean difference [MD] = 0.13, I2   = 0%). A greater BCVA improvement was observed in the conbercept group after 1-month (MD = -0.27, I2   = 1%), 3-month (MD = -0.28, I2   = 0%), and 6-month (MD = -0.20, I2   = 78%) follow-up. The need for endodiathermy (odds ratio [OR] = 0.20, I2   = 0%) and silicone oil tamponade use (OR = 0.59, I2   = 72%) and intraoperative bleeding (OR = 0.11, I2   = 33%) was lower in conbercept group. Postoperative early (OR = 0.22, I2   = 0%) and late (OR = 0.47, I2   = 0%) vitreous hemorrhage was lower in conbercept group. There was no significant difference in BCVA improvement and intraoperative outcome between conbercept and ranibizumab.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravitreal conbercept was associated with a more significant BCVA improvement, better intraoperative outcome, and less postoperative vitreous hemorrhage compared to no conbercept.

Fracture of the Port Catheter and Migration Into the Coronary Sinus: Case Report and Brief Review of the Literature

INTRODUCTION

Totally implantable venous device has a good safety profile, although certain complications may occur. Late mechanical complications include catheter fracture and cardiac migration which are rarely occurring in approximately 0.1% to 1% of patients.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 33-year-old woman referred by the surgical oncologist for port catheter fragment extraction through endovascular approach. She was asymptomatic on presentation and has a history of hypertension and smoking. Chest X-ray showed a port catheter fragment previously thought to be in the right atrium at the level of 8-9 thoracic vertebrae (right heart catheterization showed that the port catheter fragment was in the coronary sinus). Angiography of the right outflow tract indicates that the fragment was not in the outflow tract or pulmonary arteries but posterior to it. It was concluded that the port catheter fragment had migrated deep into the coronary sinus and the snare was unable to pull the fragment. It was deemed unfeasible to remove the fragment through the endovascular approach.

DISCUSSION

The port catheter fracture had migrated entirely into the coronary sinus and to the deep of our knowledge; this was the fourth case reported in the current literature. We tried to do a review of previous similar case reports; interestingly, this was the only case where the fragmented catheter was situated deep within the coronary sinus without any part of the fragment projected to the right atrium. This made the retrieval of the fragment much more difficult with a high chance of failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Migration of totally implantable venous device into coronary sinus is a rare but possible complication and might be difficult to remove if the position is unfavorable.

Comparison between radial versus femoral percutaneous coronary intervention access in Indonesian hospitals, 2017-2018: A prospective observational study of a national registry

BACKGROUND

Coronary heart disease is a leading cause of death in Indonesia and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is a routinely performed procedure. The aim of this study is to provide real-world insight on the demographics of coronary artery disease and comparison between radial compared to femoral PCI in Indonesia, which performed radial access whenever possible.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study involving 5420 patients with coronary artery disease who underwent PCI at 9 participating centers in the period of January 2017-December 2018.

RESULTS

Radial access rate was performed in 4038 (74.5%) patients. Patients receiving femoral access has a higher rate of comorbidities and complex lesions compared to radial access. The incidence of in-hospital mortality, cardiogenic shock, major arrhythmia, and tamponade were higher in femoral group. The incidence of in-hospital mortality was 114 (2.1%). New-onset angina (OR 3.412), chronic renal failure (OR 3.47), RBBB (OR 4.26), LBBB (OR 6.26), left main stenosis PCI (OR 3.58), cardiogenic shock (OR 4.9), and arrhythmia (OR 15.59) were found to be independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. Radial access did not independently affect in-hospital mortality. In propensity-matched cohort, radial access was not associated with lower in-hospital mortality in both bivariable and multivariable model. However, radial access was associated with reduced in-hospital mortality in STEMI subgroup (OR 0.31).

CONCLUSION

Higher rate of adverse events was noted on the femoral access group. However, it might stem from the fact that patients with more comorbidities and complex lesions are more likely to be assigned to femoral access-group. Neither radial or femoral access is superior in terms of in-hospital mortality upon propensity-score matching/multivariable analysis.

Electrocardiographic early repolarization is associated with future ventricular arrhythmia after acute myocardial infarction-Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Early repolarization (ER) has been linked to ventricular arrhythmia (VA) and sudden cardiac death in patients without structural heart disease. We aimed to assess the latest evidence on whether ER is associated with future VA after acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search on the topic that assesses ER and VA/adverse cardiovascular events in AMI. We included studies with sufficient details on ER and VA, we also performed a meta-analysis on their morphology.

RESULTS

A total of 3350 subjects from 9 studies were included. Five hundred and twenty-one (15.55%) had ER and 2829 (84.45%) did not. On meta-analysis, ER (+) in AMI was associated with VA with a pooled odds ratio (OR) of 3.58 (2.70-4.73), P < 0.001; heterogeneity I 2 34%. Subgroup analysis of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) showed an OR of 2.79 [1.98-3.93], P < 0.001; heterogeneity I 2 0%. Inferior location of ER (+) was associated with VA OR 3.98 [1.86-8.53], P = 0.008; I 2 67%. Notching had a 5.41 [3.52-8.32], P < 0.001; low heterogeneity I 2 0% of having VA. Pooled OR for J-point elevation was 4.72 [2.63-8.46], P < 0.001; I 2 25%. Horizontal ST-segment was associated with VA with an OR of 4.30 [1.89-975], P < 0.001; I 2 59%. Lateral location and slurred morphology were not associated with VA. Upon sensitivity analysis for inferior location and horizontal ST-segment, removal of a study reduces heterogeneity significantly.

CONCLUSION

Early repolarization especially those with the inferior location, notching morphology, an elevated J-point and horizontal ST-segment had a higher likelihood of VA in AMI including STEMI patients.

The prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia and the association of physical exercise with quality of life of uninvestigated dyspepsia patients in Indonesia: An internet-based survey

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological data on the prevalence of uninvestigated dyspepsia (UD) and its impact on the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in Indonesian population are still lacking. There is no study investigating the association between exercise and the HRQOL in UD patients. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of UD and its association with physical exercise, and its impact on HRQOL in Indonesian patients with UD.

METHODS

This was a population-based, cross-sectional study, conducted using an internet-based questionnaire which was randomly distributed throughout Indonesia using the social media. The questionnaire contained socio-demographic details, exercise levels, Rome III criteria for dyspepsia, and SF-NDI (Short Form-Nepean Dyspepsia Index). The frequency, duration, the intensity of exercise, and the classification of exercise according to ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) were included in the assessment. The screening for UD was conducted using the Rome III criteria and the SF-NDI score was calculated to assess the HRQOL in patients with UD.

RESULTS

A total of 2725 valid responses were collected. The overall prevalence of UD in the study was 49.75%. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that gender (female) and lack of exercise were independently associated with UD (OR 2.07, 95% CI 1.74-2.47, p < 0.001 and OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.42-2.07, p < 0.001). The median SF-NDI score among 1295 UD subjects in non-exercising and exercising groups was 21.00 and 18.00 (p < 0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated the prevalence of UD and the association between exercise and HRQOL among UD patients in Indonesia.

In-depth review of cardiopulmonary support in COVID-19 patients with heart failure

Coronavirus disease 2019 infection has spread worldwide and causing massive burden to our healthcare system. Recent studies show multiorgan involvement during infection, with direct insult to the heart. Worsening of the heart function serves as a predictor of an adverse outcome. This finding raises a particular concern in high risk population, such as those with history of preexisting heart failure with or without implantable device. Lower baseline and different clinical characteristic might raise some challenge in managing either exacerbation or new onset heart failure that might occur as a consequence of the infection. A close look of the inflammatory markers gives an invaluable clue in managing this condition. Rapid deterioration might occur anytime in this setting and the need of cardiopulmonary support seems inevitable. However, the use of cardiopulmonary support in this patient is not without risk. Severe inflammatory response triggered by the infection in combination with the preexisting condition of the worsening heart and implantable device might cause a hypercoagulability state that should not be overlooked. Moreover, careful selection and consideration have to be met before selecting cardiopulmonary support as a last resort due to limited resource and personnel. By knowing the nature of the disease, the interaction between the inflammatory response and different baseline profile in heart failure patient might help clinician to salvage and preserve the remaining function of the heart.

Markers of ventricular repolarization as an additional non-invasive electrocardiography parameters for predicting ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation in patients with Brugada Syndrome - A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Controversies surrounded the management of asymptomatic Brugada syndrome. Prognostication using electrophysiology study (EPS) is disputable. Non-invasive parameters may be a valuable additional tool for risk stratification. We aim to evaluate the use markers of ventricular repolarization including Tpeak-to-Tend (TpTe), Tpe Dispersion, TpTe/QT ratio, and QTc interval as additional non-invasive electrocardiography parameters for predicting ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation in patients with Brugada syndrome.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive search on TpTe, Tpe Dispersion, TpTe/QT ratio, and QTc interval as a predictor for ventricular tachycardia(VT)/fibrillation(VF)/aborted sudden cardiac death/appropriate ICD shock in patients with Brugada syndromes up until October 2018.

RESULTS

We included ten studies in the qualitative synthesis and eight studies in meta-analysis. There were a total of 2126 subjects from ten studies. We found that TpTe interval (mean difference 11.97 m s [5.02-18.91]; p < 0.001; I2 80% possibly on ≥80-100 m s and maximum QTc interval (mean difference 11.42 m s [5.90-16.93], p < 0.001; I2 28%) were the most potential ECG parameters to predict VT/VF/AT/SCD. Tpe dispersion and TpTe/QT ratio have a high heterogeneity. Upon sensitivity analysis, there is no single study found to markedly affect heterogeneity of Tpe dispersion and TpTe/QT ratio. Removal of a study reduced maximum QTc interval heterogeneity to 0%.

CONCLUSIONS

Measurement of TpTe interval, Tp-e dispersion, TpTe/QT ratio, and QTc interval on ECG emerge as a promising prognostication tool which needs further investigations with a more standardized method, outcome, and cut-off points. As for now, only maximum QTc interval has a reliable result with low heterogeneity sufficiently reliable for prognostication.

The association between serum prealbumin and poor outcome in COVID-19 - Systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between the prealbumin and severity and mortality in COVID-19.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search from PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases up until 2 February 2021. The primary outcome was the poor outcome, a composite of mortality and severity. Severe COVID-19 was defined as COVID-19 that fulfill the criteria for severe pneumonia or patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome/disease progression/need for intensive care unit or mechanical ventilation. The effect estimates were a mean difference between patients with and without a poor outcome in mg/dL and odds ratio (OR) per 1 mg/dL decrease in prealbumin level. The effect estimates were reported with their 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

RESULTS

Nine studies comprising of 2104 patients were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Patients with poor outcome have lower prealbumin level (mean difference -71.48 mg/dL [95% CI -93.74, -49.22], p<0.001; I2: 85.9%). Every 1 mg/dL decrease in prealbumin level was associated with 1% increase in poor outcome (OR 0.992 [0.987, 0.997], p=0.004, I2: 81.7%). Meta-regression analysis showed that the association between the prealbumin level and poor outcome varies with gender (male) (coefficient: 3.50, R2: 100%, p<0.001), but not age, diabetes, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Low serum prealbumin was associated with poor outcomes in patients with COVID-19.

Dose response relationship between D-dimer level and mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients: a retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic. Coagulopathy is one of the most common complications characterized by increased D-dimer level. We aimed to investigate the dose-response relationship between elevated D-dimer level and mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study in 259 critically ill COVID-19 patients requiring intensive care unit admission between March and December 2020. We compared the mortality rate between patients with and without elevated D-dimer. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, Fagan's nomogram, and dose-response relationship were performed to determine the association between D-dimer level and mortality.

RESULTS

Overall mortality rate was 40.9% (106 patients). Median D-dimer level was higher in non-survivor group (10,170 ng/mL vs 4,050 ng/mL, p=0.028). The association remained significant after multivariate logistic regression analysis (p=0.046). The optimal cut-off for D-dimer level to predict mortality from ROC curve analysis was 9,020 ng/mL (OR (odds ratio) 3.73 [95% CI (confidence interval) 1.91 - 7.28], p<0.001). D-dimer level >9,020 ng/mL confers 67% posterior probability of mortality and D-dimer level <9,020 ng/mL had 35% probability of mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a non-linear dose-response relationship between D-dimer level and mortality with P nonlinearity of 0.004. D-dimer level was associated with mortality in critically ill COVID-19 patients in the non-linear dose-response relationship.

The use of intermittent pneumatic compression to prevent venous thromboembolism in neurosurgical patients-A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains high despite the use of low-molecular weight heparin (LMWH) and compression stocking (CS). We aimed to evaluate the use of IPC as VTE prophylaxis in neurosurgical patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We conducted meta-analysis to assess the use of IPC as VTE prophylaxis in neurosurgical patients from several databases.

RESULTS

There was a total of 7.515 subjects from 5 studies. Reduction in VTE incidence was demonstrated by the IPC group (OR 0.40 [0.31, 0.52], p < 0.001; I2: 44 %). IPC was shown to reduce the incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) (OR 0.43 [0.32, 0.57], p < 0.001; I2: 0 %) compared to the control group. Incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) was lower (OR 0.42 [0.25, 0.70], p < 0.001; I2: 80 %) in IPC. Upon sensitivity analysis, PE was significantly lower in IPC (OR 0.24 [0.13, 0.45], p < 0.001; I2: 0 %). Subgroup analysis on patients undergoing neurosurgical intervention (operation) and receiving LMWH + CS shows a markedly reduced incidence of VTE (OR 0.37 [0.28, 0.50], p < 0.001; I2: 3 %), DVT (OR 0.39 [0.28, 0.54], p < 0.001; I2: 0 %), and PE (OR 0.22 [0.11, 0.43], p < 0.001; I2: 0 %) in IPC.

CONCLUSION

Intermittent pneumatic compression was associated with less VTE in neurosurgical patients, especially in those who received neurosurgical interventions, however, the certainty of evidence remained inadequate for creating a strong recommendation and further randomized controlled trials are needed before drawing a definite conclusion.

Peri-left bundle branch pacing after atrioventricular node ablation and failed his bundle pacing in atrial fibrillation

We described a case where peri-left bundle branch pacing (PLBP) may become an alternative approach in difficult His bundle pacing (HBP) following atrioventricular nodal ablation in a patient with atrial fibrillation. After atrioventricular nodal ablation, the HBP lead was removed to another LBB position distal to the first PLBP lead, due to acute threshold increase. At 3 month follow-up, PLBP exhibited acceptable pacing parameters without any adverse event.

Evidence-Based Case Report: The Use of D-Dimer Assay to Exclude Left Atrial Thrombus in Patient with Atrial Fibrillation >48 Hours

INTRODUCTION

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) for >48 hours who are a candidate for cardioversion should have transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) performed to exclude left atrial thrombus (LAT) that may cause systemic thromboembolism upon conversion to sinus rhythm. However, TEE facilities were limited, especially in developing countries.

CASE ILLUSTRATION

A 50 years-old man presented with exertional dyspnea and palpitation for 72 hours prior to admission. Electrocardiography showed AF with a ventricular rate of 140x/minute. Cardioversion was decided to be the best approach. This patient has an AF >48 hours of onset, hence, LAT should be excluded by the use of TEE. Unfortunately, there was no TEE facility nearby.

DISCUSSION

Upon comprehensive search on the use of D-Dimer assay to exclude the LAT in AF patients, we found seven studies showed increased D-dimer level in those with left atrial thrombus. In 4 studies, AUC was > 0.70, sensitivity and specificity varied from 75.9% to 89% and 73.1% to 95% respectively. However, there is no single cut-off point, due to the heterogeneity of cut-off points.

CONCLUSION

D-dimer assay combined with other variables of atrial thrombus exclusion score is valuable in excluding LAT. Previously, weeks of anticoagulation is more advisable before attempting cardioversion in the absence of nearby TEE facilities. With current evidence, a low D-dimer and ATE score of 0 is safe for cardioversion.

Diagnostic prediction model in subjects with low-risk unstable angina pectoris/non-ST segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to construct a prediction model based on non-invasive examination and cardiovascular risk factors, to predict the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD) and its severity in patients with low-risk unstable angina pectoris (UAP)/Non-ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the association between non-invasive examinations and cardiovascular risk factors in predicting CAD. Model constructed based on non-invasive assessment and cardiovascular risk factors was compared to coronary angiography, the reference standard.

RESULTS

This study included 104 patients, comprising 60 men and 44 women, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 52.3 (6.8) years. Two diagnostic prediction models were constructed after series of analyses. The main model consists of NO, CIMT, history of smoking, and Age-Gender, while the alternative model consists of CIMT, history of smoking, and Age-Gender. The main model has AUC of 74.5% (95% CI: 64.9-84.1), sensitivity of 72.7% (95% CI: 57.2-85.0), specificity 65.0% (95% CI: 51.6 -76.9 for a cut-off point of 74.5. While the alternative model has 69.0% AUC (95% CI: 58.9-79.1), sensitivity of 65.9% (95%: 50.1-79, 5), a specificity of 56.7% (95% CI: 43.2-69.4) for a cut-off point of 69. The main model and the alternative model have similar diagnostic prediction performance based on the ROC comparison test (p = 0.70).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on these results, we conclude that NO, CIMT, smoking history, and age-gender have a value of diagnostic validity in subjects with low-risk UAP/NSTEMI.

The association between mean platelet volume and poor outcome in patients with COVID-19: Systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to assess the association between mean platelet volume (MPV) and poor outcome in patients with COVID-19.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive literature search using the PubMed, Embase and Scopus databases with keywords "2019-nCoV" OR "SARS-CoV-2" OR "COVID-19" AND "mean platelet volume" OR "MPV" on 8 July 2021. The primary outcome was composite poor outcome, defined as severe COVID-19 or mortality. The pooled effect estimate was reported as mean differences in terms of MPV between the group with and without outcome.

RESULTS

There were 17 studies which consist of 4549 patients with COVID-19 were included in this study. The incidence of poor outcome was 25% (20%-30%). Mean MPV was found to be higher in the poor outcome group in compare to no poor outcome group (10.3 ± 1.9 fL vs 9.9 ± 1.7 fL). The mean MPV difference between both group was 0.47 fL [95% CI 0.27, 0.67], p < 0.001; I2: 62.91%, p < 0.001). In the sub-group analysis, patients with severe COVID-19 had higher MPV (mean difference 0.54 fL [95% CI 0.28, 0.80], p < 0.001; I2: 54.84%, p = 0.014). Furthermore, MPV was also higher in the mortality group (mean difference 0.54 fL [95% CI 0.29, 0.80], p = 0.020; I2: 71.11%, p = 0.004). Meta-regression analysis showed that the association between MPV and poor outcome was not affected by age (p = 0.789), gender (p = 0.167), platelets (p = 0.056), white blood cells (p = 0.639), and lymphocytes (p = 0.733).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis indicated that increased MPV was associated with severity and mortality in patients with COVID-19. Further research is needed to determine the optimum cut-off point.

Transjugular Seldinger approach for permanent pacemaker implantation in octogenarian with inaccessible upper limbs venous system

In up to 13.7% of device implants, lead entry through the cephalic, axillary, or subclavian veins might be unfeasible. Transjugular permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation may be considered as a bailout strategy in the difficult anatomy of conventional veins, before resorting to epicardial pacing lead, which requires general anesthesia and thoracotomy. We described a case report of a single chamber PPM implantation in an 83-year-old man using transjugular Seldinger approach without surgical cut down of the internal jugular vein, due to spasm, stenosis, and thrombosis of the upper limbs venous systems. Acceptable lead impedance and threshold were maintained during 2 months follow-up.

Decrease in the Number of Patients Presenting With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Across Catheterization Centers in Indonesia During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has become a global problem, put a heavy burden on the health care system, and resulted in many fatalities across the globe. A reduction in the number of cardiac emergencies, especially ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), is observed worldwide. In this study, we aimed to analyze the trends of cases and presentation of STEMI across several cardiac catheterization centers in Indonesia. Method: This retrospective study was performed by combining medical record data from five different hospitals in Indonesia. We compared data from the time period between February to June 2019 with those between February and June 2020. Patients who were diagnosed with STEMI and underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) procedures were included in the study. Results: There were 41,396 emergency department visits in 2019 compared with 29,542 in 2020. The number of patients with STEMI declined significantly from 338 in 2019 to 190 in 2020. Moreover, the total number of PPCI procedures reduced from 217 in 2019 to 110 in 2020. The proportion of PPCI was not significantly reduced (64.2 vs. 57.9%). The majority of the patients were men, with a mean age of 54 years in 2019 and 55 years in 2020. We observed a significantly longer door-to-balloon time in 2020 than in 2019 (p < 0.001). We also observed a difference in the door-to-balloon time and ischemic time between the two periods. Conclusion: We observed a decline in the number of patients presenting with STEMI to our centers. However, we observed no significant decline in the percentage of PPCI performed across our centers during this pandemic.

Concurrent right atrial isomerism, complete atrioventricular septal defect, and single ventricle in an L-transposition of great arteries patient complicated by brain abscess

We present a case of an 11-year-old Indonesian female who was referred to our facility after surgical excision of brain abscess. The patient has been previously diagnosed with right atrial isomerism, complete atrioventricular septal defect, and L-Transposition of great arteries. Multiple staged surgeries are required for the management of this condition.

Direct vs preimplantation balloon valvuloplasty in transcatheter aortic valve replacement-Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and prospective-matched cohorts

BACKGROUND

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of direct vs preimplantation balloon valvuloplasty (predilatation) before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature search up until March 2020 from PubMed, SCOPUS, EuropePMC, Cochrane Central Database, ProQuest, and ClinicalTrials.gov. We included randomized controlled trial (RCT) and prospective-matched cohorts that compared direct TAVR and preimplantation balloon valvuloplasty before TAVR. The primary outcome was the device success as defined by Valve Academic Research Consortium 2. The secondary outcome was a patient-prosthesis mismatch, the need for balloon postdilatation, composite adverse events, and 1-year mortality.

RESULTS

There were a total of 3078‬ patients from eight studies. This meta-analysis showed that direct TAVR has a similar device success rate (P = .63), the need for postdilatation (P = .82), and composite adverse events (P = .98) compared with preimplantation balloon valvuloplasty. Subgroup analysis for balloon-expandable valves showed lower need for balloon postdilatation (risk ratio [RR], 0.63 [0.47, 0.84]; P = .002; I2 , 0%) in direct TAVR group but higher incidence of acute kidney injury (RR, 3.23 [1.25, 8.40]; P = .02; I2 , 0%) and major/life-threatening bleeding (RR, 1.54 [1.17, 2.02]; P = .002; I2 , 0%). Subgroup analysis for the RCTs alone and RCTs + propensity-matched cohorts showed similar device success and composite adverse events in both groups. However, pooled RCTs showed a higher need for balloon postdilatation in direct TAVR (RR, 1.83 [1.03, 3.24]; P = .04; I2 , 0%).

CONCLUSION

Direct TAVR has similar efficacy and safety to preimplantation balloon valvuloplasty. However, better-designed RCTs are required before drawing a definite conclusion.