Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement

A nomoscore of four genes for predicting the rupture risk in abdominal aortic aneurysm patients with osteoarthritis

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) represents one of the most life-threatening cardiovascular diseases and is increasingly becoming a significant global public health concern. The aneurysms-osteoarthritis syndrome (AOS) has gained recognition, as patients with this syndrome often exhibit early-stage osteoarthritis (OA) and have a substantially increased risk of rupture, even with mild dilation of the aneurysm. The aim of this study was to discover potential biomarkers that can predict the occurrence of AAA rupture in patients with OA.

METHODS

Two gene expression profile datasets (GSE98278, GSE51588) and two single-cell RNA-seq datasets (GSE164678, GSE152583) were obtained from the GEO database. Functional enrichment analysis, PPI network construction, and machine learning algorithms, including LASSO, Random Forest, and SVM-RFE, were utilized to identify hub genes. In addition, a nomogram and ROC curves were generated to predict the risk of rupture in patients with AAA. Moreover, we analyzed the immune cell infiltration in the AAA tissue microenvironment by CIBERSORT and validated key gene expression in different macrophage subtypes through single-cell analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 105 intersecting DEGs that showed consistent changes between rAAA and OA dataset were identified. From these DEGs, four hub genes (PAK1, FCGR1B, LOX and PDPN) were selected by machine learning. High predictive performance was observed for the nomogram based on these hub genes, with an AUC of 0.975 (95 % CI: 0.942-1.000). Abnormal immune cell infiltration was detected in rAAA and correlated significantly with the hub genes. Ruptured AAA cases exhibited higher nomoscore values and lower M2 macrophage infiltration compared to stable AAA. Validation in animal models (PPE+BAPN-induced rAAA) confirmed the significant role of these biomarkers in AAA pathology.

CONCLUSION

The present study successfully identified four potential hub genes (PAK1, FCGR1B, LOX and PDPN) and developed a robust predictive nomogram to assess the risk of AAA rupture. The findings also shed light on the connection between hub genes and immune cell components in the microenvironment of rAAA. These findings support future research on key genes in AAA patients with OA, providing insights for novel management strategies for AAA.

Factors that Influence Growth Rates of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms. Analysis of a Mexican Cohort

OBJECTIVE

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms (AAA) growth remains a process not fully understood. The objective of this study was to analyze risk factors associated with changes in AAA diameter in a Mexican cohort.

METHODS

An observational study in which we analyzed the entirely of patients in which an AAA was reported in a Computed Tomography (CT) study from 2014 to 2021 who had a follow-up CT. We divided them by groups depending on the diagnosis of type 2 diabetic mellitus and pharmacological history (diabetic vs non-diabetic, metformin vs non-metformin intake and statin vs non-statin intake). We compared pre and post follow-up AAA diameters using paired t-tests. A multivariate analysis was performed in order to identify independent variables associated with an increased growth rate. Statistical analysis was performed on Stata 17.

RESULTS

During the studied period 72 (39.77%) patients had a follow-up CT. Mean age was 75 years (±9.05) and 52 (72.22%) were men. When comparing infra-renal largest diameter through time based on metformin intake, a significant difference was found only in the metformin non-intake group (42.05 ± 12.54 vs45.34 ± 12.06 [P = 0.02]), in contrast the metformin intake group measures were non-significantly different (36.13 ± 7.04 vs 37.00 ± 4.51; P = 0.57) through follow-up. In the multivariate analysis AAA largest diameter at diagnosis correlated with significantly increased growth rate (coeff = 0.06, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

AAA diameters appear to change through time in a non-linear pattern influenced by different epidemiological and clinical factors. Metformin intake appears to promote a stability in AAA diameter growth in our studied population.

The science and practice of imaging-based screening: What the radiologist needs to know

Imaging-based screening is an important public health focus and a fundamental part of Diagnostic Radiology. Hence, radiologists should be familiar with the concepts that drive imaging-based screening practice including goals, risks, biases and clinical trials. This review article discusses an array of imaging-based screening exams including the key epidemiology and evidence that drive screening guidelines for abdominal aortic aneurysm, breast cancer, carotid artery disease, colorectal cancer, coronary artery disease, lung cancer, osteoporosis, and thyroid cancer. We will provide an overview on societal interests in screening, screening-related inequities, and opportunities to address them. Emerging evidence for opportunistic screening and the role of AI in imaging-based screening will be explored. In-depth knowledge and formalized training in imaging-based screening strengthens radiologists as clinician scientists and has the potential to broaden our public health leadership opportunities. SUMMARY SENTENCE: An overview of key screening concepts, the evidence that drives today's imaging-based screening practices, and the need for radiologist leadership in screening policies and evidence development.

A comprehensive review on computational analysis, research advances, and major findings on Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms for the years 2021 to 2023

BACKGROUND

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a pathological condition characterized by the dilation of the lower part of the aorta, where significant hemodynamic forces are present. The prevalence and high mortality risk associated with AAA remain major concerns within the scientific community. There is a critical need for extensive research to understand the underlying mechanisms, pathophysiological characteristics, and effective detection methods for abdominal aortic abnormalities. Additionally, it is imperative to develop and refine both medical and surgical management strategies. This review aims to indicate the role of computational analysis in the comprehension and management of AAAs and covers recent research studies regarding the computational analysis approach conducted between 2021 and 2023. Computational analysis methods have emerged as sophisticated and non-invasive approaches, providing detailed insights into the complex dynamics of AAA and enhancing our ability to study and manage this condition effectively.

METHODS

Computational analysis relies on fluid mechanics principles applied to arterial flow, using the Navier-Stokes equations to model blood flow dynamics. Key hemodynamic indicators relevant to AAAs include Time-Average Wall Shear Stress (TAWSS), Oscillatory Shear Index (OSI), Endothelial Cell Activation Potential (ECAP), and Relative Residence Time (RRT). The primary methods employed for simulating the abdominal aorta and studying its biomechanical environment are Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Methods (FEM). This review paper encompasses a thorough examination of recent literature, focusing on studies conducted between 2021 and 2023.

RESULTS

The latest studies have elucidated crucial insights into the blood flow characteristics and geometric attributes of AAAs. Notably, blood flow patterns within AAAs are associated with increased rupture risk, along with elevated intraluminal thrombus volume and specific calcification thresholds. Asymmetric AAAs exhibit heightened risks of rupture and thrombus formation due to low and oscillating wall shear stresses. Moreover, larger aneurysms demonstrate increased wall stress, pressure, and energy loss. Advanced modeling techniques have augmented predictive capabilities concerning growth rates and surgical thresholds. Additionally, the influence of material properties and thrombus volume on wall stress levels is noteworthy, while inlet velocity profiles significantly modulate blood flow dynamics within AAAs.

CONCLUSIONS

This review highlights the potential utility of computational modeling. However, the clinical applicability of computational modeling has been limited by methodological variability, despite the ongoing accumulation of evidence supporting the prognostic significance of biomechanical and hemodynamic indices in this field. The establishment of standardized reporting is critical for clinical implementation.

Risk Factors for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in Patients With Diabetes

OBJECTIVE

Although diabetes has been shown to be negatively associated with development of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), patients with diabetes may still develop aneurysms. In this study we examined risk factors for development of AAA in patients with diabetes.

METHODS

Adults over 50 years with diabetes who underwent health screening between 2009 and 2012 were followed for incident AAA until December 31, 2019. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to calculate multivariate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for risk factors associated with AAA.

RESULTS

Among 1,913,066 participants (55.3% men), 6,996 AAA cases were identified during a mean follow-up of 7.7 years. Increased AAA risk was observed for age ≥ 65 years (HR 2.69, 95% CI 2.55-2.83), men (HR 1.81, 95% CI 1.69-1.94), smoking (ex-smoker ≥ 20 pack-years, HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.61-1.89; current smoker < 20 pack-years, HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.59-1.94; current smoker ≥ 20 pack-years, HR 2.40, 95% CI 2.23-2.59), abdominal obesity (HR 1.30, 95% CI 1.23-1.38), and comorbidities: hypertension (HR 1.63, 95% CI 1.53-1.73), dyslipidemia (HR 1.35, 95% CI 1.29-1.42), chronic kidney disease (HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.44-1.61), cardiovascular disease (HR 1.71, 95% CI 1.58-1.86). Heavy (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.61-0.74) and mild alcohol consumption (HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.74-0.83), overweight (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.81-0.93) and obesity (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.75-0.87), longer diabetes duration (≥ 5 years: HR 0.74, 95% CI 0.70-0.78), and using ≥ 3 oral hypoglycemic agents (HR 0.84, 95% CI 0.79-0.90) were associated with decreased AAA risk, while insulin use was associated with a marginally increased risk (HR 1.09, 95% CI 1.00-1.18). Among the oral hypoglycemic agents, metformin (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.90-1.00), thiazolidinedione (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.79-0.97), and sulfonylurea (HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.83-0.93) were associated with decreased risk of AAA.

CONCLUSIONS

Although diabetes is associated with decreased AAA risk, those with comorbid cardiometabolic diseases, abdominal obesity, and smoking history should be aware of increased AAA risk. Further studies are warranted to verify the potential use of oral hypoglycemic agents for reducing AAA risk.

Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of polygenic risk score-stratified screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm

As the heritability of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is high and AAA partially shares genetic architecture with other cardiovascular diseases, genetic information could help inform AAA screening strategies. Exploiting pleiotropy and meta-analysing summary data from large studies, we construct a polygenic risk score (PRS) for AAA. Leveraging related traits improves PRS performance (R2) by 22.7%, relative to using AAA alone. Compared with the low PRS tertile, intermediate and high tertiles have hazard ratios for AAA of 2.13 (95%CI 1.61, 2.82) and 3.70 (95%CI 2.86, 4.80) respectively, adjusted for clinical risk factors. Using simulation modelling, we compare PRS- and smoking-stratified screening with inviting men at age 65 and not inviting women (current UK strategy). In a futuristic scenario where genomic information is available, our modelling suggests inviting male current smokers with high PRS earlier than 65 and screening female smokers with high/intermediate PRS at 65 and 70 respectively, may improve cost-effectiveness.

Artificial intelligence-driven multiomics predictive model for abdominal aortic aneurysm subtypes to identify heterogeneous immune cell infiltration and predict disease progression

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) poses a significant health risk and is influenced by various compositional features. This study aimed to develop an artificial intelligence-driven multiomics predictive model for AAA subtypes to identify heterogeneous immune cell infiltration and predict disease progression. Additionally, we investigated neutrophil heterogeneity in patients with different AAA subtypes to elucidate the relationship between the immune microenvironment and AAA pathogenesis.

METHODS

This study enrolled 517 patients with AAA, who were clustered using k-means algorithm to identify AAA subtypes and stratify the risk. We utilized residual convolutional neural network 200 to annotate and extract contrast-enhanced computed tomography angiography images of AAA. A precise predictive model for AAA subtypes was established using clinical, imaging, and immunological data. We performed a comparative analysis of neutrophil levels in the different subgroups and immune cell infiltration analysis to explore the associations between neutrophil levels and AAA. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were performed to elucidate the interplay between CXCL1, neutrophil activation, and the nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway in AAA pathogenesis. Furthermore, the effect of CXCL1 silencing with small interfering RNA was investigated.

RESULTS

Two distinct AAA subtypes were identified, one clinically more severe and more likely to require surgical intervention. The CNN effectively detected AAA-associated lesion regions on computed tomography angiography, and the predictive model demonstrated excellent ability to discriminate between patients with the two identified AAA subtypes (area under the curve, 0.927). Neutrophil activation, AAA pathology, CXCL1 expression, and the NF-κB pathway were significantly correlated. CXCL1, NF-κB, IL-1β, and IL-8 were upregulated in AAA. CXCL1 silencing downregulated NF-κB, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-8.

CONCLUSION

The predictive model for AAA subtypes demonstrated accurate and reliable risk stratification and clinical management. CXCL1 overexpression activated neutrophils through the NF-κB pathway, contributing to AAA development. This pathway may, therefore, be a therapeutic target in AAA.

Aortic aneurysms in a general population cohort: prevalence and risk factors in men and women

AIMS

The prevalence and difference in risk factors for having thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) in men compared with women in the general population is not well described. This study aimed to test the hypotheses that (i) cardiovascular risk factors for TAA and AAA differ and (ii) the prevalence of TAA and AAA is sex specific.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Aortic examination using computed tomography angiography was performed in 11 294 individuals (56% women), with a mean age of 62 (range 40-95) years participating in the Copenhagen General Population Study. TAAs were defined as an ascending aortic diameter ≥45 mm and a descending aortic diameter ≥35 mm, while AAAs were defined as an abdominal aortic diameter ≥30 mm. Demographic data were obtained from questionnaires. Overall prevalence of aortic aneurysms (AAs) in the study population included: total population 2.1%, men 4.0% and women 0.7% (P-value men vs. women P < 0.001). AAs were independently associated with male sex, increasing age, and body surface area (BSA). While TAAs were associated with hypertension, odds ratio (OR) = 2.0 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.5-2.8], AAAs were associated with hypercholesterolaemia and smoking, OR = 2.4 (95% CI: 1.6-3.6) and 3.2 (95% CI: 1.9-5.4).

CONCLUSION

Subclinical AAs are four times more prevalent in men than in women. In both sexes, increasing age and BSA are risk factors for AAs of any anatomical location. Whereas arterial hypertension is a risk factor for TAAs, hypercholesterolaemia and smoking are risk factors for AAAs.

Association between diabetes status and long-term outcomes following open and endovascular repair of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Current literature reports conflicting findings regarding the effect of diabetes mellitus (DM) on outcomes of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair. In this study we examined the effect of DM and its management on outcomes after open AAA repair (OAR) and endovascular AAA repair (EVAR).

METHODS

We identified all patients undergoing OAR or EVAR for infrarenal AAA between 2003 and 2018 in the Vascular Quality Initiative registry data linked with Medicare claims. We excluded patients with missing DM status. Patients were stratified by their preoperative DM status, and then further stratified by DM management: dietary, noninsulin antidiabetic medications (NIMs), or insulin. Outcomes of interest included 1-year aneurysm sac dynamics, 8-year aneurysm rupture, reintervention, and all-cause mortality. These outcomes were analyzed with the χ2 test, Kaplan-Meier methods, and multivariable Cox regression analyses.

RESULTS

We identified 34,021 EVAR patients and 4127 OAR patients, of whom 20% and 16% had DM, respectively. Of all DM patients, 22% were managed by dietary management, 59% by NIM, and 19% by insulin. After EVAR, DM patients were more likely to have stable sacs, whereas non-DM patients were more likely to have sac regression at 1 year. Compared with non-DM, DM was associated with a significantly lower risk for 8-year rupture in EVAR (EVAR hazard ratio [HR], 0.68; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.51-0.92). Compared with non-DM, NIM was associated with lower risk of rupture within 8-years for both EVAR and OAR (EVAR HR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.44-0.94; OAR HR, 0.29; 95% CI, 0.41-0.80), whereas dietary control and insulin had a similar rupture risk compared with non-DM. However, compared with non-DM, DM was associated with a higher risk of 8-year all-cause mortality after EVAR and OAR (DM vs non-DM: EVAR HR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.11-1.23; OAR HR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.00-1.36). After further DM management substratification, compared with non-DM, management with NIM and insulin were associated with a higher 8-year mortality in EVAR and OAR (EVAR: NIM HR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.05-1.20; insulin: HR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.26-1.55; OAR: NIM HR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.06-1.54; and insulin: HR, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.15-2.13). Finally, there was a similar risk of reintervention across the DM and non-DM populations for EVAR and OAR.

CONCLUSIONS

DM was associated with a lower adjusted risk of rupture after EVAR as well as OAR in patients managed with NIM. Nevertheless, just as in patients without AAA, preoperative DM was associated with a higher adjusted risk of all-cause mortality. Further study is needed to evaluate for differences in aneurysm-related mortality between DM and non-DM patients, and studies are planned to evaluate the independent effect of NIM on aneurysm-related outcomes.

An international, expert-based, Delphi consensus document on controversial issues in the management of abdominal aortic aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

As a result of conflicting, inadequate or controversial data in the literature, several issues concerning the management of patients with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) remain unanswered. The aim of this international, expert-based Delphi consensus document was to provide some guidance for clinicians on these controversial topics.

METHODS

A three-round Delphi consensus document was produced with 44 experts on 6 prespecified topics regarding the management of AAAs. All answers were provided anonymously. The response rate for each round was 100%.

RESULTS

Most participants (42 of 44 [95.4%]) agreed that a minimum case volume per year is essential (or probably essential) for a center to offer open or endovascular AAA repair (EVAR). Furthermore, 33 of 44 (75.0%) believed that AAA screening programs are (probably) still clinically effective and cost effective. Additionally, most panelists (36 of 44 [81.9%]) voted that surveillance after EVAR should be (or should probably be) lifelong. Finally, 35 of 44 participants (79.7%) thought that women smokers should (or should probably/possibly) be considered for screening at 65 years of age, similar to men. No consensus was achieved regarding lowering the threshold for AAA repair and the need for deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis in patients undergoing EVAR.

CONCLUSIONS

This expert-based Delphi consensus document provides guidance for clinicians regarding specific unresolved issues. Consensus could not be achieved on some topics, highlighting the need for further research in those areas.

A Dual-Targeting, Multi-Faceted Biocompatible Nanodrug Optimizes the Microenvironment to Ameliorate Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a highly lethal cardiovascular disease that currently lacks effective pharmacological treatment given the complex pathophysiology of the disease. Here, single-cell RNA-sequencing data from patients with AAA and a mouse model are analyzed, which reveals pivotal pathological changes, including the M1-like polarization of macrophages and the loss of contractile function in smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Both cell types express the integrin αvβ3, allowing for their dual targeting with a single rationally designed molecule. To this end, a biocompatible nanodrug, which is termed EVMS@R-HNC, that consists of the multifunctional drug everolimus (EVMS) encapsulated by the hepatitis B virus core protein modifies to contain the RGD sequence to specifically bind to integrin αvβ3 is designed. Both in vitro and in vivo results show that EVMS@R-HNC can target macrophages as well as SMCs. Upon binding of the nanodrug, the EVMS is released intracellularly where it exhibits multiple functions, including inhibiting M1 macrophage polarization, thereby suppressing the self-propagating inflammatory cascade and immune microenvironment imbalance, while preserving the normal contractile function of SMCs. Collectively, these results suggest that EVMS@R-HNC presents a highly promising therapeutic approach for the management of AAA.

Family history as the strongest predictor of aortic and peripheral aneurysms in patients with intracranial aneurysms

OBJECTIVE

Intracranial aneurysms (IA) and aortic aneurysms (AA) are both abnormal dilations of arteries with familial predisposition and have been proposed to share co-prevalence and pathophysiology. Associations of IA and non-aortic peripheral aneurysms are less well-studied. The goal of the study was to understand the patterns of aortic and peripheral (extracranial) aneurysms in patients with IA, and risk factors associated with the development of these aneurysms.

METHODS

4701 patients were included in our retrospective analysis of all patients with intracranial aneurysms at our institution over the past 26 years. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and aneurysmal locations were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to study associations with and without extracranial aneurysms.

RESULTS

A total of 3.4% of patients (161 of 4701) with IA had at least one extracranial aneurysm. 2.8% had thoracic or abdominal aortic aneurysms. Age, male sex, hypertension, coronary artery disease, history of ischemic cerebral infarction, connective tissues disease, and family history of extracranial aneurysms in a 1st degree relative were associated with the presence of extracranial aneurysms and a higher number of extracranial aneurysms. In addition, family history of extracranial aneurysms in a second degree relative is associated with the presence of extracranial aneurysms and atrial fibrillation is associated with a higher number of extracranial aneurysms.

CONCLUSION

Significant comorbidities are associated with extracranial aneurysms in patients with IA. Family history of extracranial aneurysms has the strongest association and suggests that IA patients with a family history of extracranial aneurysms may benefit from screening.

Polygenic Risk Score Informed Clinical Model for Improving Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex disease with environmental and genetic risk factors. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) based on disease-specific risk-associated single nucleotide variants (SNVs) have demonstrated effectiveness in stratifying individual-level disease risk for cardiovascular diseases. This prospective cohort study assessed associations of PRS of AAA (PRSAAA) with risk of incident AAA, analyzed the effectiveness of a combined clinical-genetic risk model, and explored the clinical utility of the model in identifying high-risk individuals for AAA screening.

METHODS

PRSAAA was calculated using 911,440 SNVs and PRS of coronary artery disease was calculated using 2,324,683 SNVs derived from mixed ancestry genome-wide association studies. The UK Biobank was used as the study cohort. All individuals with complete genetic data available and no diagnosis of AAA at the time of recruitment were included in the analysis and followed prospectively to assess for incident AAA. A PRS-informed clinical model, Prob-AAA, was developed using clinically significant variables and PRSAAA.

RESULTS

Four hundred eighty-one thousand one hundred 5 individuals were included in the analysis with 2,668 incident AAA cases. Incident AAA increased from 0.30 to 0.93% between the lowest and highest decile of PRSAAA; similarly, severe AAA, requiring surgery and/or presenting with rupture, increased from 23 to 39% of incident AAA cases across deciles. PRSAAA was a predictor of incident AAA diagnosis (hazard ratio 2.06 [1.70-2.48]) independent of other clinical risk factors including male sex, older age, and smoking history. Prob-AAA was an independent predictor of incident AAA (hazard ratio 1.92 [1.69-2.20]), and identified 9.6% of cases of incident AAA compared to only 4.2% by PRSAAA. Current screening guidelines captured 5.7% of the overall cohort, with an incident AAA rate of approximately 3.2%. Among males not included by current guidelines, Prob-AAA identified an additional cohort, approximately 2% of the overall cohort, with a similar rate of incident AAA.

CONCLUSIONS

Prob-AAA, a PRS-informed clinical model for AAA, improved upon the predictive power of current, clinical risk factor-informed, screening guidelines for AAA.

Socioeconomic Status Based on Area Deprivation Index Does Not Affect Postoperative Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair in the VA Health-Care System

BACKGROUND

Living conditions and socioeconomic status are known to impact individual health and access to medical care. Prior research has validated the Area Deprivation Index (ADI) tool as a measure of socioeconomic disadvantage for a given locality. Living in a neighborhood with a higher ADI score has been associated with increased rates of hospital readmission due to complications following surgery. We set forth to identify the possible associations between a patient's ADI score and postoperative endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) outcomes in the Veterans Health Care Administration (VHA).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of patients who underwent EVAR from January 2010 to December 2021 at a level 1A VHA Hospital. Patient demographics and intraoperative variables were obtained. ADI score was calculated based on home addresses and resulted in a local score on a scale of 1-10 and a national percentile on a scale of 1-100. We then further stratified these patients into local and national quintile groups. Local ADI 1 included scores of 1-2, and local ADI 5 included scores of 9-10. National ADI 1 comprised scores 1-20, and national ADI 5 scored 81-100. The other scores were equally divided into ADI 2, 3, and 4. Higher ADI scores were associated with lower socioeconomic status. We identified clinical outcomes, including wound infection, respiratory failure, urinary tract infection, acute kidney injury, limb stenosis, readmission, length of stay, and subsequent reintervention rates.

RESULTS

241 patients underwent EVAR over the time period examined. 57.3% (n = 138) of patients were in quintiles 4 and 5 for local ADI; when national ADI percentiles organized these same patients, 47.3% (n = 114) were in quintiles 4 and 5. Patient demographics did not vary between the local and national groups. We saw no statistically significant difference in intraoperative variables, postoperative complications, readmission, loss to follow-up, or 1-year mortality rates across ADI quintiles at the local or national level. Binary Logistic Regression showed no statistical significance for local and national ADI quintiles for hospital readmission and overall postoperative complications.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that there was no statistical significance between hospital readmission rates or worse surgical outcomes across local and national ADI quintiles. This suggests that the VHA resources and multidisciplinary support may improve care across neighborhoods. This comprehensive care provided at VHA may mitigate postoperative complications in patients undergoing EVARs. Further research is warranted to investigate the role of area deprivation in health care and EVAR outcomes in a veteran population.

Lessons Learned from Dutch Medical Disciplinary Law Regarding Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection Care

BACKGROUND

The current study is an explanatory analysis of Dutch disciplinary law regarding aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection care. We aim to give insight in the way disciplinary judges rule on quality of care and to extract the lessons to be learned.

METHODS

The online open-access governmental database, which includes all disciplinary rulings since 2010, was searched using search terms related to aortic aneurysm and dissection care. First, abstracts were screened for relevance. Thereafter, the full text of all remaining cases was read. Cases related to the diagnosis, treatment, or the postoperative phase of an aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection were included. Characteristics were registered and analyzed for quantitative assessment. Each case was summarized and coded for qualitative analysis.

RESULTS

Forty-eight first-instance cases were included, of which 19 (40%) were founded. Reprimands (n = 9) and warnings (n = 7) were the prevailing measures. Seven out of 8 appeal cases filed by plaintiffs were unfounded. Six out of 9 appeals filed by defendants were adjudged and led to a less severe measure. Most cases concerned the subject of 'wrong treatment/wrong diagnosis' (75%). Whether not recognizing an aneurysm or dissection led to disciplinary culpability depended on case-specific circumstances, and much importance was attached to adequate documentation. In many complaints, an element of inadequate communication was recognized.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient-involvement, clear communication, and implementing changes after a mistake could increase patient satisfaction, avert complaints, and prevent time-consuming trials. Maintaining adequate documentation and having knowledge on the analytical framework of the court is beneficial when confronted with a complaint.

A prospective longitudinal study of risk factors for abdominal aortic aneurysm

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors for abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) from the largest Welsh screening cohort to date. Patients were recruited from 1993 (to 2015) as part of the South East Wales AAA screening programme through general practitioners. Demographic data and risk factors were collected by means of a self-report questionnaire. Statistical tests were performed to determine whether associations could be observed between AAA and potential risk factors. Odds ratios (OR) were also calculated for each of the risk factors identified. A total of 6879 patients were included in the study. Two hundred and seventy-five patients (4.0%) presented with AAA, of which 16% were female and 84% were male. Patients with AAA were older than the (no AAA) control group (p < 0.0001). The following risk factors were identified for AAA: family history of AAA (p < 0.0001); history of vascular surgery (p < 0.0001), cerebrovascular accident (p < 0.0001), coronary heart disease (p < 0.0001), diabetes (p < 0.0001), medication (p = 0.0018), claudication (p < 0.0001), smoking history (p = 0.0001) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (p = 0.0007). AAA is associated with classical vascular risk factors, in addition to other less-well-documented risk factors including previous vascular surgery. These findings have practical implications with the potential to improve future clinical screening of patients in order to reduce AAA mortality.

Ultrasound screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm in primary care

INTRODUCTION

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) constitutes a pathology with high mortality. There is currently no screening program implemented in primary care in Spain.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the usefulness of ultrasound in the detection of AAA in the at-risk population in primary care. Secondarily, to identify subjects whose vascular risk (VR) should be reclassified and to determine whether AAA is associated with the presence of carotid plaque and other risk factors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Cross-sectional, descriptive, multicenter, national, descriptive study in primary care.

SUBJECTS

A consecutive selection of hypertensive males aged between 65 and 75 who are either smokers or former smokers, or individuals over the age of 50 of both sexes with a family history of AAA.

MEASUREMENTS

Diameter of abdominal aorta and iliac arteries; detection of abdominal aortic and carotid atherosclerotic plaque. VR was calculated at the beginning and after testing (SCORE).

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty patients were analyzed (age: 68.3±5 years; 89.3% male). Baseline RV was high/very high in 55.3%. AAA was detected in 12 patients (8%; 95% CI: 4-12); aortic ectasia in 13 (8.7%); abdominal aortic plaque in 44% and carotid plaque in 62% of the participants. VR was reclassified in 50% of subjects. The detection of AAA or ectasia was associated with the presence of carotid plaque, current smoking and lipoprotein(a), p<0.01.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of AAA in patients with VR is high. Ultrasound in primary care allows detection of AAA and subclinical atherosclerosis and consequently reclassification of the VR, demonstrating its utility in screening for AAA in the at-risk population.

Cost-effectiveness analysis of endovascular versus open repair in patients with abdominal aortic aneurysm in Iran: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is one of the most important cardiovascular diseases, especially in the elderly. People with this disease are at risk of rupture of the abdominal aorta and death. The present study was conducted with the aim of analyzing the cost-effectiveness of endovascular repair compared to open surgery in AAA patients in Iran.

METHODS

A Markov chain model was developed based on the use of endovascular repair and open surgery. The base-case patient was defined as a 65-year-old man presenting with AAA diameter greater than 5 cm. The determination of costs was from the perspective of the public sector provider. QALY was used to calculate the effectiveness. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) and TreeAge software were used for cost-effectiveness analysis. The follow-up period was 10 years and the willingness to pay (WTP) was determined as three times the Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita.

RESULT

At the end of year 10, the endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) strategy gained 1 318 313 559 Iranian Rial (IRR) (67 885.29$) in cost and 3.57 QALYs in effectiveness. In contrast, the use of the open surgery repair (OSR) strategy gained 1 186 761 858 IRR (61 111.16$) in cost and 3·32 QALYs in effectiveness. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio, comparing EVAR versus OSR, was 53, 346, 3757 IRR (178.36$) per QALYs, which is lower than the proposed WTP, indicating that EVAR is more expensive and more effective. Based on the Monte Carlo simulation test, EVAR is the preferred strategy in 58.6% of the population.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular repair has a relative superiority compared to open surgery, and the probability of the effectiveness of endovascular repair compared to open surgery does not change with increasing willingness to pay.

Accuracy of Online Artificial Intelligence Models in Primary Care Settings

INTRODUCTION

The importance of preventive medicine and primary care in the sphere of public health is expanding, yet a gap exists in the utilization of recommended medical services. As patients increasingly turn to online resources for supplementary advice, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in providing accurate and reliable information has emerged. The present study aimed to assess ChatGPT-4's and Google Bard's capacity to deliver accurate recommendations in preventive medicine and primary care.

METHODS

Fifty-six questions were formulated and presented to ChatGPT-4 in June 2023 and Google Bard in October 2023, and the responses were independently reviewed by two physicians, with each answer being classified as "accurate," "inaccurate," or "accurate with missing information." Disagreements were resolved by a third physician.

RESULTS

Initial inter-reviewer agreement on grading was substantial (Cohen's Kappa was 0.76, 95%CI [0.61-0.90] for ChatGPT-4 and 0.89, 95%CI [0.79-0.99] for Bard). After reaching a consensus, 28.6% of ChatGPT-4-generated answers were deemed accurate, 28.6% inaccurate, and 42.8% accurate with missing information. In comparison, 53.6% of Bard-generated answers were deemed accurate, 17.8% inaccurate, and 28.6% accurate with missing information. Responses to CDC and immunization-related questions showed notable inaccuracies (80%) in both models.

CONCLUSIONS

ChatGPT-4 and Bard demonstrated potential in offering accurate information in preventive care. It also brought to light the critical need for regular updates, particularly in the rapidly evolving areas of medicine. A significant proportion of the AI models' responses were deemed "accurate with missing information," emphasizing the importance of viewing AI tools as complementary resources when seeking medical information.

Measurement of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Strain Using MR Deformable Image Registration: Accuracy and Relationship to Recent Aneurysm Progression

BACKGROUND

Management of asymptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) based on maximum aneurysm diameter and growth rate fails to preempt many ruptures. Assessment of aortic wall biomechanical properties may improve assessment of progression and rupture risk. This study aimed to assess the accuracy of AAA wall strain measured by cine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) deformable image registration (MR strain) and investigate its relationship with recent AAA progression.

METHODS

The MR strain accuracy was evaluated in silico against ground truth strain in 54 synthetic MRIs generated from a finite element model simulation of an AAA patient's abdomen for different aortic pulse pressures, tissue motions, signal intensity variations, and image noise. Evaluation included bias with 95% confidence interval (CI) and correlation analysis. Association of MR strain with AAA growth rate was assessed in 25 consecutive patients with >6 months of prior surveillance, for whom cine balanced steady-state free-precession imaging was acquired at the level of the AAA as well as the proximal, normal-caliber aorta. Univariate and multivariate regressions were used to associate growth rate with clinical variables, maximum AAA diameter (D max ), and peak circumferential MR strain through the cardiac cycle. The MR strain interoperator variability was assessed using bias with 95% CI, intraclass correlation coefficient, and coefficient of variation.

RESULTS

In silico experiments revealed an MR strain bias of 0.48% ± 0.42% and a slope of correlation to ground truth strain of 0.963. In vivo, AAA MR strain (1.2% ± 0.6%) was highly reproducible (bias ± 95% CI, 0.03% ± 0.31%; intraclass correlation coefficient, 97.8%; coefficient of variation, 7.14%) and was lower than in the nonaneurysmal aorta (2.4% ± 1.7%). D max ( β = 0.087) and MR strain ( β = -1.563) were both associated with AAA growth rate. The MR strain remained an independent factor associated with growth rate ( β = -0.904) after controlling for D max .

CONCLUSIONS

Deformable image registration analysis can accurately measure the circumferential strain of the AAA wall from standard cine MRI and may offer patient-specific insight regarding AAA progression.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Screening for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a significant vascular disease found in 4% to 8% of the screening population. If ruptured, its mortality rate is between 75% and 90%, and it accounts for up to 5% of sudden deaths in the United States. Therefore, screening of AAA while asymptomatic has been a crucial portion of preventive health care worldwide. Ultrasound of the abdominal aorta is the primary imaging modality for screening of AAA recommended for asymptomatic adults regardless of their family history or smoking history. Alternatively, duplex ultrasound and CT abdomen and pelvis without contrast may be appropriate for screening. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.

Implicit screening of abdominal aortic aneurysms among veterans using lumbar spine MRI

BACKGROUND

Early detection of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) is critical given the high morbidity and mortality of a ruptured aneurysm. Screening ultrasound is recommended for men 65 and 75 years of age with a smoking history. However, studies have shown that the rate of ultrasound screening is low and that implicit AAA screening by abdominal imaging studies that were not originally intended for AAA screening can play a major role in AAA detection.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective was to evaluate the role of lumbar spine MRIs as an implicit AAA screening study by assessing the detection rate of AAAs in a broader cohort of veterans that included screening and non-screening populations.

METHODS

4085 consecutive lumbar spine MRIs from our institution between 2/2020 and 9/2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Each study was labeled AAA present, AAA not present, or indeterminate by radiologists. The correlation between the presence of AAAs and cardiovascular risk factors was assessed using multinomial logistic regression.

RESULTS

AAAs were present in 89 studies (2.2 %) from 80 patients (mean age 75.8 (56-93), M:F 10:0) and absent in 3935 cases (96.3 %) from 3310 patients (mean age 61.7 (19-100), M:F 9:1). Indeterminate cases (n = 61, 1.5 %) were mainly due to incomplete visualization (70.5 %). Mean AAA size was 3.6 cm with most AAAs (n = 43) smaller than 3.5 cm. Sixteen AAAs were 3.5-3.9 cm, 16 between 4 and 4.9cm, and 6 between 5 and 5.9 cm. Artifact precluded measurements in 8 cases. Among the AAA-positive cases, 20 had no prior documentation of AAA. Twenty-one patients with AAAs would not have met the criteria for the routine AAA screening ultrasound. Higher rates of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and smoking were observed for the AAA cohort at 78.8 % (OR 2.037, CI 1.160-3.576, P = .013), 82.5 % (2.808, 1.543-5.110, P < .001), and 75 % (3.340, 1.979-5.638, P < .001), respectively, compared to the matched no-AAA cohort (58.2 %, 57.6 %, and 50.8 %; n = 2055).

CONCLUSION

Lumbar spine MRI is a valid modality for implicit screening of AAAs.

CLINICAL IMPACT

Those interpreting lumbar spine MRIs should be vigilant about assessing for AAAs, especially in men with a history of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or tobacco smoking.

A 20-Year Analysis of Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Outcomes and Associated Factors in Korea

BACKGROUND

Unlike western countries, which have reported distinct decreases in incidence of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) over the last few decades, epidemiologic studies in Korea have not shown significant changes in incidence or mortality of rAAA. The purpose of this study was to analyze the changes in rAAA treatment outcomes and various associated risk factors over the past 2 decades.

METHODS

A 20-year retrospective multicenter review for rAAA cases from the period of January 2000 to December 2020 was undertaken. Preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative clinical data were extracted for patients diagnosed with rAAA. For analysis, outcomes from the early era, defined as patients treated between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2010, were compared with outcomes from the late era, defined as patients treated between January 1, 2011, and December 31, 2020.

RESULTS

The total in-hospital mortality was 34.1% in the early era compared to 44.8% in the late era. Patients in the late era were older than those in the early era (75.2 ± 10.3 years vs. 70.3 ± 8.9 years; P = 0.009). Treatment with rAAA endovascular aneurysm repair increased from 2.3% in early to 13.8% in late era (P = 0.031). In the early era, more patients were operated by experienced surgeons than the late era (78.1% vs. 45.9%; P = 0.002). The emergency room to operating room time did not show improvement over the 20 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that mortality rate of rAAA in Korea has not changed over the last 2 decades. The study suggests the need for national preventive strategies, improved systemic coordination, and potential centralization of vascular services to enhance survival rates for rAAA.

Controlling the nutritional status score: a new tool for predicting postoperative mortality in patients with infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm treated with endovascular aneurysm repair

Background

AAA is a fatal condition that commonly occurs during vascular surgery. Nutritional status exerts a significant influence on the prognosis of various pathological conditions Scores from the CONUT screening tool have been shown to predict outcomes of certain malignancies and chronic diseases. However, the ramifications of nutritional status on AAA patients undergoing EVAR have not been elucidated in prior studies. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the correlation between CONUT scores and postoperative prognostic outcomes in patients with AAA undergoing EVAR.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of 177 AAA patients treated with EVAR from June 2018 to November 2019 in a single center. Patient characteristics, CONUT scores, and postoperative status were collected. These patients were stratified into groups A and B according to CONUT scores. Subsequently, a comparative analysis of the baseline characteristics between the two cohorts was conducted. Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression analyses were employed to identify the autonomous predictors of mid-term mortality and complications, respectively.

Results

Compared with group A, patients in group B had higher midterm mortality (p < 0.001). Univariate analysis showed that CONUT scores; respiratory diseases; stent types; preoperative Hb, CRP, PT, and Fb levels were risk factors for death. Multivariate analysis confirmed that CONUT score [HR, 1.276; 95% CI, 1.029-1.584; p = 0.027] was an independent risk factor for mortality. Logistic regression analysis showed that prior arterial disease, smoking, and D-dimer levels were risk factors, although multivariate analysis showed smoking (OR, 3.492; 95% CI, 1.426-8.553; p = 0.006) was an independent risk factor. Kaplan-Meier curves showed that patients in group B had shorter mid-term survival than those in group A (log-rank p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Malnutrition was strongly associated with mid-term mortality in patients with infrarenal AAA treated with EVAR.

Machine learning-based prediction of abdominal aortic aneurysms for individualized patient care

OBJECTIVE

The United States Preventative Services Task Force guidelines for screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are broad and exclude many at risk groups. We analyzed a large AAA screening database to examine the utility of a novel machine learning (ML) model for predicting individual risk of AAA.

METHODS

We created a ML model to predict the presence of AAAs (>3 cm) from the database of a national nonprofit screening organization (AAAneurysm Outreach). Participants self-reported demographics and comorbidities. The model is a two-layered feed-forward shallow network. The ML model then generated AAA probability based on patient characteristics. We evaluated graphs to determine significant factors, and then compared those graphs with a traditional logistic regression model.

RESULTS

We analyzed a cohort of 10,033 patients with an AAA prevalence of 2.74%. Consistent with logistic regression analysis, the ML model identified the following predictors of AAA: Caucasian race, male gender, advancing age, and recent or past smoker with recent smoker having a more profound affect (P < .05). Interestingly, the ML model showed body mass index (BMI) was associated with likelihood of AAAs, especially for younger females. The ML model also identified a higher than predicted risk of AAA in several groups, including female nonsmokers with cardiac disease, female diabetics, those with a family history of AAA, and those with hypertension or hyperlipidemia at older ages. An elevated BMI conveyed a higher than expected risk in male smokers and all females. The ML model also identified a complex relationship of both diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia with gender. Family history of AAA was a more important risk factor in the ML model for both men and women too.

CONCLUSIONS

We successfully developed an ML model based on an AAA screening database that unveils a complex relationship between AAA prevalence and many risk factors, including BMI. The model also highlights the need to expand AAA screening efforts in women. Using ML models in the clinical setting has the potential to deliver precise, individualized screening recommendations.

Medium-Term Survival After Unrepaired Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

PURPOSE

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is almost always considered fatal without open surgical or endovascular repair. We report a case that has defied this norm and explore the possible factors involved in this exceedingly rare outcome.

CASE REPORT

An 87 year old gentleman presented with an acute ruptured AAA with left retroperitoneal hematoma. He was counseled for emergent repair, but opted for conservative management instead. He has remained well at the time of writing, 13 months from the rupture, with clinical resolution of symptoms along with radiological resolution of the hematoma.

CONCLUSION

Timely repair remains the mainstay of management for ruptured AAA, although this rare case highlights that it is possible for ruptured AAA to seal spontaneously with patient surviving up to 13 months. We have sought to hypothesize the factors in this case that may have contributed to prolonged survival following untreated ruptured AAA.

CLINICAL IMPACT STATEMENT

While the overwhelming evidence is that a ruptured AAA left unrepaired is fatal, our case report illustrates a rare case that shows it is possible for ruptured AAA to seal spontaneously, with patient surviving up to 13 months. We seek to hypothesize the factors that may contribute to such prolonged survival.

Aortic aneurysms in patients with atherosclerotic coronary artery disease in the southwestern region of Romania - clinical and histopathological study

An aneurysm is defined as a dilation of the arterial wall with a diameter exceeding 1.5 times the normal diameter of the vessel concerned. Aortic aneurysms (AAs) can develop at any level but are mostly found at the abdominal and infrarenal levels and extend to the iliac arteries. AAs are usually asymptomatic and are most often discovered incidentally during various imaging investigations for other conditions. Rupture of an AA is usually dramatic, being one of the causes of sudden cardiac death. Surgical treatment and, more recently, endovascular treatment are the only effective methods of AA repair. In this study, we screened for the diagnosis of AAs in patients with stable exertional angina who had indications for coronary angiography. The study was carried out in the period 2021-2023 in the Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases Timişoara, Romania. Of the 2458 patients with exertional angina who required coronary angiography, a number of 1844 (75%) patients had at least one stenotic atheromatous plaque, and of these 312 patients had AAs, of which 173 at the level of the abdominal aorta.

Narrative Review of Risk Assessment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Rupture Based on Biomechanics-Related Morphology

CLINICAL IMPACT

Studies have shown that the biomechanical indicators based on multi-scale models are more effective in accurately assessing the rupture risk of AAA. To meet the need for clinical monitoring and rapid decision making, the typical morphological parameters associated with AAA rupture and their relationships with the mechanical environment have been summarized, which provide a reference for clinical preoperative risk assessment of AAA.

Why selective screening for asymptomatic carotid stenosis is currently appropriate: a special report

INTRODUCTION

Two of the main reasons recent guidelines do not recommend routine population-wide screening programs for asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis (AsxCS) is that screening could lead to an increase of carotid revascularization procedures and that such mass screening programs may not be cost-effective. Nevertheless, selective screening for AsxCS could have several benefits. This article presents the rationale for such a program.

AREAS COVERED

The benefits of selective screening for AsxCS include early recognition of AsxCS allowing timely initiation of preventive measures to reduce future myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, cardiac death and cardiovascular (CV) event rates.

EXPERT OPINION

Mass screening programs for AsxCS are neither clinically effective nor cost-effective. Nevertheless, targeted screening of populations at high risk for AsxCS provides an opportunity to identify these individuals earlier rather than later and to initiate a number of lifestyle measures, risk factor modifications, and intensive medical therapy in order to prevent future strokes and CV events. For patients at 'higher risk of stroke' on best medical treatment, a prophylactic carotid intervention may be considered.

2024 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics: A Report of US and Global Data From the American Heart Association

BACKGROUND

The American Heart Association (AHA), in conjunction with the National Institutes of Health, annually reports the most up-to-date statistics related to heart disease, stroke, and cardiovascular risk factors, including core health behaviors (smoking, physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and obesity) and health factors (cholesterol, blood pressure, glucose control, and metabolic syndrome) that contribute to cardiovascular health. The AHA Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Update presents the latest data on a range of major clinical heart and circulatory disease conditions (including stroke, brain health, complications of pregnancy, kidney disease, congenital heart disease, rhythm disorders, sudden cardiac arrest, subclinical atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, valvular disease, venous thromboembolism, and peripheral artery disease) and the associated outcomes (including quality of care, procedures, and economic costs).

METHODS

The AHA, through its Epidemiology and Prevention Statistics Committee, continuously monitors and evaluates sources of data on heart disease and stroke in the United States and globally to provide the most current information available in the annual Statistical Update with review of published literature through the year before writing. The 2024 AHA Statistical Update is the product of a full year's worth of effort in 2023 by dedicated volunteer clinicians and scientists, committed government professionals, and AHA staff members. The AHA strives to further understand and help heal health problems inflicted by structural racism, a public health crisis that can significantly damage physical and mental health and perpetuate disparities in access to health care, education, income, housing, and several other factors vital to healthy lives. This year's edition includes additional global data, as well as data on the monitoring and benefits of cardiovascular health in the population, with an enhanced focus on health equity across several key domains.

RESULTS

Each of the chapters in the Statistical Update focuses on a different topic related to heart disease and stroke statistics.

CONCLUSIONS

The Statistical Update represents a critical resource for the lay public, policymakers, media professionals, clinicians, health care administrators, researchers, health advocates, and others seeking the best available data on these factors and conditions.

Temporal trends in mortality of aortic dissection and rupture in the UK, Japan, the USA and Canada

OBJECTIVE

Aortic dissection and aortic aneurysm rupture are aortic emergencies and their clinical outcomes have improved over the past two decades; however, whether this has translated into lower mortality across countries remains an open question. The purpose of this study was to compare mortality trends from aortic dissection and rupture between the UK, Japan, the USA and Canada.

METHODS

We analysed the WHO mortality database to determine trends in mortality from aortic dissection and rupture in four countries from 2000 to 2019. Age-standardised mortality rates per 100 000 persons were calculated, and annual percentage change was estimated using joinpoint regression.

RESULTS

Age-standardised mortality rates per 100 000 persons from aortic dissection and rupture in 2019 were 1.04 and 1.80 in the UK, 2.66 and 1.16 in Japan, 0.76 and 0.52 in the USA, and 0.67 and 0.81 in Canada, respectively. There was significantly decreasing trends in age-standardised mortality from aortic rupture in all four countries and decreasing trends in age-standardised mortality from aortic dissection in the UK over the study period. There was significantly increasing trends in mortality from aortic dissection in Japan over the study period. Joinpoint regression identified significant changes in the aortic dissection trends from decreasing to increasing in the USA from 2010 and Canada from 2012. In sensitivity analyses stratified by sex, similar trends were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Trends in mortality from aortic rupture are decreasing; however, mortality from aortic dissection is increasing in Japan, the USA and Canada. Further study to explain these trends is warranted.

Increased Mortality in Octogenarians Undergoing Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair for Smaller Aneurysms Warrants Caution

BACKGROUND

Geriatric patients constitute a growing portion of the general population, with particular increase in the prevalence of octogenarians. The incidence and prevalence of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) have been clearly shown to be associated with advancing age. The effect of advanced age in outcomes from endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is unclear. We study the effect of advanced age, as an independent risk factor for mortality in octogenarian geriatric patients (OGPs) compared to nonoctogenarian geriatric patients (NOGPs) undergoing EVAR.

METHODS

The 2011-2017 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP) Procedure-Targeted Vascular database was queried for geriatric patients (>65 years) undergoing EVAR for symptomatic and asymptomatic indications. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed comparing outcomes between OGPs and NOGPs.

RESULTS

Of the 10,490 geriatric patients who underwent EVAR, 7,508 (71.6%) were NOGPs and 2,982 (28.4%) were OGPs. Octogenarians were more often female (82.3% vs. 76.7%). In comparison to NOGPs, fewer OGPs were treated for AAA <5.5 cm (46.7% vs. 54.9%, P < 0.001) and AAA <5.0 cm (19.2% vs. 24.0%, P < 0.001). Nearly 90% of male and over 80% of female NOGPs and OGPs treated for AAA <5.0 cm were asymptomatic. Octogenarian geriatric patients (OGPs) had less dyspnea (15.3% vs. 17.3%, P = 0.01), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (16.1% vs. 20.5%, P < 0.001), diabetes (12.7% vs. 17.8%, P < 0.001), and smoking (13.2% vs. 36.3%, P < 0.001) compared to NOGPs. Octogenarian geriatric patients (OGPs) were found to have a greater length of stay (2 days vs. 1 day, P < 0.001), as well as rate of mortality (3.4% vs. 1.7%, P < 0.001). Both symptomatic and asymptomatic OGPs had a higher rate of mortality than their NOGP counterparts (symptomatic 16% vs. 9.5%, P < 0.001; asymptomatic 1.3% vs. 0.5%, P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed OGPs to have increased overall associated risk of mortality compared to NOGPs (odds ratio (OR) 1.88, confidence interval (CI) 1.39-2.54, P < 0.001), as well as in the symptomatic (OR 1.54, CI 1.06-2.23, P < 0.001) and asymptomatic cohorts (OR 2.66, CI 1.59-4.45, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Octogenarian geriatric patients (OGPs) accounted for over a quarter of geriatric patients undergoing EVAR. This elderly group was associated with an increased rate and risk of mortality compared to NOGPs, even when controlling for known risk factors for mortality. Given this increased risk of mortality in OGPs undergoing EVAR, elective treatment of AAAs in this advanced age group should be performed with caution, particularly in those with diameters in which the risk of rupture may not warrant repair.

New Directions in Diagnostics for Aortic Aneurysms: Biomarkers and Machine Learning

This review article presents an appraisal of pioneering technologies poised to revolutionize the diagnosis and management of aortic aneurysm disease, with a primary focus on the thoracic aorta while encompassing insights into abdominal manifestations. Our comprehensive analysis is rooted in an exhaustive survey of contemporary and historical research, delving into the realms of machine learning (ML) and computer-assisted diagnostics. This overview draws heavily upon relevant studies, including Siemens' published field report and many peer-reviewed publications. At the core of our survey lies an in-depth examination of ML-driven diagnostic advancements, dissecting an array of algorithmic suites to unveil the foundational concepts anchoring computer-assisted diagnostics and medical image processing. Our review extends to a discussion of circulating biomarkers, synthesizing insights gleaned from our prior research endeavors alongside contemporary studies gathered from the PubMed Central database. We elucidate the prevalent challenges and envisage the potential fusion of AI-guided aortic measurements and sophisticated ML frameworks with the computational analyses of pertinent biomarkers. By framing current scientific insights, we contemplate the transformative prospect of translating fundamental research into practical diagnostic tools. This narrative not only illuminates present strides, but also forecasts promising trajectories in the clinical evaluation and therapeutic management of aortic aneurysm disease.

Blood pressure variability supersedes heart rate variability as a real-world measure of dementia risk

Blood pressure variability (BPV) and heart rate variability (HRV) have been associated with Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) in rigorously controlled studies. However, the extent to which BPV and HRV may offer predictive information in real-world, routine clinical care is unclear. In a retrospective cohort study of 48,204 adults (age 54.9 ± 17.5 years, 60% female) receiving continuous care at a single center, we derived BPV and HRV from routinely collected clinical data. We use multivariable Cox models to evaluate the association of BPV and HRV, separately and in combination, with incident ADRD. Over a median 3 [2.4, 3.0] years, there were 443 cases of new-onset ADRD. We found that clinically derived measures of BPV, but not HRV, were consistently associated with incident ADRD. In combined analyses, only patients in both the highest quartile of BPV and lowest quartile of HRV had increased ADRD risk (HR 2.34, 95% CI 1.44-3.81). These results indicate that clinically derived BPV, rather than HRV, offers a consistent and readily available metric for ADRD risk assessment in a real-world patient care setting. Thus, implementation of BPV as a widely accessible tool could allow clinical providers to efficiently identify patients most likely to benefit from comprehensive ADRD screening.

Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm discovered by pocket-sized ultrasound in a low resource setting: a case report

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening condition characterized by the weakening and dilation of the abdominal aorta. AAA primarily affects men, smokers, and the elderly, with rupture being a fatal complication. While point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is valuable in diagnosing AAA, the role of using pocket-sized ultrasound in a low resource setting remains less explored. This case report presents a unique instance of a suspected ruptured AAA diagnosed using pocket-sized ultrasound in an emergency department (ED) situated in a low resource setting where ultrasound machines are absent, and emergency physicians lack proficiency in ultrasound usage.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 78-year-old man with a history of hypertension and bladder cancer presented to the ED with suprapubic pain. Initial evaluation showed no concerning findings. However, the next day, he collapsed, became unconscious, and experienced a cardiac arrest. Despite resuscitation efforts, the patient's condition deteriorated. POCUS revealed an 8-cm dilated abdominal aorta with an intimal flap, indicative of a dissecting AAA and a substrate for AAA rupture. Unfortunately, the patient died despite resuscitation efforts.

CONCLUSION

This case highlights the importance of considering AAA in patients with risk factors and abdominal pain in a low resource setting. POCUS using a pocket-sized ultrasound can aid in early AAA detection, potentially preventing rupture through preemptive vascular intervention. Emergency departments should prioritize ultrasound availability, and emergency physicians should be proficient in its use.

Underestimation of Occupational Radiation Exposure During Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

ABSTRACT

During interventional procedures of endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), the dosimeter was conventionally placed on chest facing toward the surgical table, instead of the main source of scatter radiation. Purpose of this study is to evaluate the underestimation of occupational radiation exposure. Phantom experiments were performed in a hybrid operating room equipped with an interventional angiography system. Electric personal dosimeters were placed at the level of eyes, chest, abdomen, and gonad of three positions, representing the principal operator (PO), assistant operator (AO), and sterile nurse (SN). Personal dose equivalent was measured with two different orientations of radiation detection, facing the table and facing the phantom, respectively. In addition to fluoroscopy, the dose produced by digital subtraction angiography was also measured to estimate the radiation exposure of routine EVAR. In this study, staff doses of 26 EVAR cases were also collected in our hospital to correlate the estimated dose. Our results show that the facing-phantom dose normalized by dose area product of patient is significantly higher than the facing-table dose when the latter is regularly seen in clinical practice. This underestimation could be even worse at a more distant position (e.g., AO and SN) as the incident angle of scatter radiation is larger. Besides, the estimated dose is highly correlated with the on-site measured dose (R 2 ~ 0.8) at chest and gonad of the PO.

Diagnostic Utility of a Combined MPO/D-Dimer Score to Distinguish Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm from Peripheral Artery Disease

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and peripheral artery disease (PAD) share pathophysiological mechanisms including the activation of the fibrinolytic and innate immune system, which explains the analysis of D-dimer and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in both conditions. This study evaluates the diagnostic marker potential of both variables separately and as a combined MPO/D-dimer score for identifying patients with AAA versus healthy individuals or patients with PAD. Plasma levels of MPO and D-dimer were increased in PAD and AAA compared to healthy controls (median for MPO: 13.63 ng/mL [AAA] vs. 11.74 ng/mL [PAD] vs. 9.16 ng/mL [healthy], D-dimer: 1.27 μg/mL [AAA] vs. 0.58 μg/mL [PAD] vs. 0.38 μg/mL [healthy]). The combined MPO/D-dimer score (median 1.26 [AAA] vs. -0.19 [PAD] vs. -0.93 [healthy]) showed an improved performance in distinguishing AAA from PAD when analysed using the receiver operating characteristic curve (area under the curve) for AAA against the pooled data of healthy controls + PAD: 0.728 [MPO], 0.749 [D-dimer], 0.801 [score]. Diagnostic sensitivity and specificity ranged at 82.9% and 70.2% (for score cut-off = 0). These findings were confirmed for a separate collective of AAA patients with 35% simultaneous PAD. Thus, evaluating MPO together with D-dimer in a simple score may be useful for diagnostic detection and the distinction of AAA from athero-occlusive diseases like PAD.

Expansion of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening and Ultrasound Utilization and Diagnosis

This cohort study uses a deidentified national administrative claims database to assess the association of eligibility expansion with abdominal aortic aneurysm screening and diagnosis.

Metabolic syndrome and the risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm: A nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) remains unclear. We investigated the potential association between AAA and MetS and its components in a large population-based cohort.

METHODS

We used the Korean National Health Insurance Service database including 4,162,640 participants aged ≥50 years who received a routine health examination in 2009. Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze the association between MetS and its components (elevated waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, triglycerides, and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C]) with AAA incidence, with adjustment for confounders.

RESULTS

During a median 9.4 years of follow-up, 18,160 participants developed incident AAA. MetS was associated with an increased risk of AAA compared to the non-MetS group (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.34-1.43). Among the individual components, elevated waist circumference, blood pressure, triglycerides, and reduced HDL-C were associated with increased AAA risk, while elevated glucose alone was associated with reduced AAA risk (aHR, 0.85; 95% CI, 0.82-0.87). AAA risk also increased linearly with the increasing number of MetS components, with the highest risk found in the presence of all 5 components (aHR, 1.98, 95% CI, 1.83-2.15).

CONCLUSIONS

MetS and its individual components, with the exclusion of elevated glucose, were associated with higher risk of AAA. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the association between MetS and AAA.

Presentation and outcomes of thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms in females, existing gaps, and future directions: A descriptive review

Thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms are more common in men. Yet, females often have worse outcomes, fewer interventions, and lower treatment rates. Females have also benefited less from the research and treatment of those diseases than men. Understanding sex- and sex-specific differences in thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms can improve care delivery, reduce disparities, and optimize outcomes for females with thoracic aortic aneurysms and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. The authors reviewed the literature on the presentation and outcomes of thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms in females, discussing the existing gaps and future directions to address them.

Association between the non-HDL-cholesterol to HDL- cholesterol ratio and abdominal aortic aneurysm from a Chinese screening program

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) can result in high mortality upon rupture but are usually undiagnosed because of the absence of symptoms in the early stage. Ultrasound screening is regarded as an impactful way to prevent the AAA-related death but cannot be performed efficiently; therefore, a target population, especially in Asia, for this procedure is lacking. Additionally, although dyslipidaemia and atherosclerosis are associated with AAA. However, it remains undetermined whether the non-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol ratio (NHHR) is associated with AAA. Therefore, this study was aimed at examining whether NHHR is associated with AAA.

METHOD

A total of 9559 participants who underwent AAA screening at Guangdong Provincial People's Hospital and through screening in two communities in Dongguan, from June 2019 to June 2021 joined in this screening program. The diagnosis of AAA was confirmed by the ultrasound examination of the abdominal aorta rather than any known or suspected AAA. Clinical and laboratory data of participants were collected. The participants were separated into a normal group and an AAA group according to the abdominal aortic status. To eliminate confounding factors, a propensity score matching (PSM) approach was utilized. The independent relationship between NHHR and AAA was assessed through the utilization of multivariable logistic regression analysis. In addition, internal consistency was evaluated through subgroup analysis, which controlled for significant risk factors.

RESULTS

Of all the participants, 219 (2.29%) participants were diagnosed with AAA. A significant elevation in NHHR was identified in the AAA group when contrasted with that in the normal group (P < 0.001). As demonstrated by the results of the multivariable logistic regression analysis, AAA was independently associated with NHHR before (odds ratio [OR], 1.440, P < 0.001) and after PSM (OR, 1.515, P < 0.001). Significant extension was observed in the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROCs) of NHHR compared to those of single lipid parameters before and after PSM. An accordant association between NHHR and AAA in different subgroups was demonstrated by subgroup analysis.

CONCLUSION

In the Chinese population, there is an independent association between NHHR and AAA. NHHR might be propitious to distinguish individuals with high risk of AAA.

A two-scale numerical study on the mechanobiology of abdominal aortic aneurysms

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) are a serious condition whose pathophysiology is related to phenomena occurring at different length scales. To gain a better understanding of the disease, this work presents a multi-scale computational study that correlates AAA progression with microstructural and mechanical alterations in the tissue. Macro-scale geometries of a healthy aorta and idealized aneurysms with increasing diameter are developed on the basis of existing experimental data and subjected to physiological boundary conditions. Subsequently, microscopic representative volume elements of the abluminal side of each macro-model are employed to analyse the local kinematics at the cellular scale. The results suggest that the formation of the aneurysm disrupts the micromechanics of healthy tissue, which could trigger collagen growth and remodelling by mechanosensing cells. The resulting changes to the macro-mechanics and microstructure of the tissue seem to establish a new homeostatic state at the cellular scale, at least for the diameter range investigated.

Balancing evidence-based care with patient-centered individualized care

Weak evidence, when manifested in clinical guidelines, can translate into biased vascular care. In vascular surgery, we have few randomized controlled trials with appropriate representation of females and persons of color, so generalizability of trial results can be problematic. Physicians are required to balance evidenced-based care (which is only as good as the underlying evidence) with personalized treatment recommendations that are often based on demographics, social circumstances, and/or existing therapeutic relationships. Biases, whether implicit or explicit, have an oversized effect on treatment decisions, and patient outcomes. In this commentary, we propose three principles to strengthen the vascular surgery evidence foundation and patient-centered decision-making going forward: (1) generating evidence designed for individualized care, (2) constructing clinical guidelines that are context specific and complexity aware, and (3) strengthening the training and support for surgeons to deliver patient-centered individualized care.

2022 ACC/AHA guideline for the diagnosis and management of aortic disease: A report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2022 ACC/AHA Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Aortic Disease" provides recommendations to guide clinicians in the diagnosis, genetic evaluation and family screening, medical therapy, endovascular and surgical treatment, and long-term surveillance of patients with aortic disease across its multiple clinical presentation subsets (ie, asymptomatic, stable symptomatic, and acute aortic syndromes).

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from January 2021 to April 2021, encompassing studies, reviews, and other evidence conducted on human subjects that were published in English from PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, CINHL Complete, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline. Additional relevant studies, published through June 2022 during the guideline writing process, were also considered by the writing committee, where appropriate.

STRUCTURE

Recommendations from previously published AHA/ACC guidelines on thoracic aortic disease, peripheral artery disease, and bicuspid aortic valve disease have been updated with new evidence to guide clinicians. In addition, new recommendations addressing comprehensive care for patients with aortic disease have been developed. There is added emphasis on the role of shared decision making, especially in the management of patients with aortic disease both before and during pregnancy. The is also an increased emphasis on the importance of institutional interventional volume and multidisciplinary aortic team expertise in the care of patients with aortic disease.

ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Pulsatile Abdominal Mass, Suspected Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: 2023 Update

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is defined as abnormal dilation of the infrarenal abdominal aortic diameter to 3.0 cm or greater. The natural history of AAA consists of progressive expansion and potential rupture. Although most AAAs are clinically silent, a pulsatile abdominal mass identified on physical examination may indicate the presence of an AAA. When an AAA is suspected, an imaging study is essential to confirm the diagnosis. This document reviews the relative appropriateness of various imaging procedures for the initial evaluation of suspected AAA. The American College of Radiology Appropriateness Criteria are evidence-based guidelines for specific clinical conditions that are reviewed annually by a multidisciplinary expert panel. The guideline development and revision process support the systematic analysis of the medical literature from peer reviewed journals. Established methodology principles such as Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation or GRADE are adapted to evaluate the evidence. The RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method User Manual provides the methodology to determine the appropriateness of imaging and treatment procedures for specific clinical scenarios. In those instances where peer reviewed literature is lacking or equivocal, experts may be the primary evidentiary source available to formulate a recommendation.