Complete vs Culprit-Lesion-Only Revascularization for ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Percutaneous Coronary Revascularization Strategies After Myocardial Infarction: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Complete revascularization with percutaneous coronary intervention improves outcomes compared with culprit revascularization following myocardial infarction (MI) with multivessel coronary artery disease. An all-cause mortality reduction has never been demonstrated. Debate also remains regarding the optimal timing of complete revascularization (immediate or staged), and method of evaluation of nonculprit lesions (physiology or angiography).

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to perform an updated systematic review with frequentist and Bayesian network meta-analyses including the totality of randomized data investigating revascularization strategies in patients presenting with MI and multivessel coronary artery disease.

METHODS

The primary comparison tested complete vs culprit revascularization. Timing and methods of achieving complete revascularization were assessed. The prespecified primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Outcomes were expressed as relative risk (RR) (95% CI).

RESULTS

Twenty-four eligible trials randomized 16,371 patients (weighted mean follow-up: 26.4 months). Compared with culprit revascularization, complete revascularization reduced all-cause mortality in patients with any MI (RR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.74-0.99; P = 0.04). Cardiovascular mortality, MI, major adverse cardiac events and repeat revascularization were also significantly reduced. In patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, the point estimate for all-cause mortality with complete revascularization was RR: 0.91 (95% CI: 0.78-1.05; P = 0.18). Rates of stent thrombosis, major bleeding, and acute kidney injury were similar. Immediate complete revascularization ranked higher than staged complete revascularization for all endpoints.

CONCLUSIONS

Complete revascularization following MI reduces all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, MI, major adverse cardiac events, and repeat revascularization. There may be benefits to immediate complete revascularization, but additional head-to-head trials are needed.

Quantitative flow ratio or angiography for the assessment of non-culprit lesions in acute coronary syndromes, a randomized trial

BACKGROUND

Patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for acute coronary syndromes often have multivessel disease (MVD). Quantitative flow ratio (QFR) is an angiography-based technology that may help quantify the functional significance of non-culprit lesions, with the advantage that measurements are possible also once the patient is discharged from the catheterization laboratory.

AIM

Our two-center, randomized superiority trial aimed to test whether QFR, as compared to angiography, modifies the rate of non-culprit lesion interventions (primary functional endpoint) and improves the outcomes of patients with acute coronary syndromes and MVD (primary clinical endpoint).

METHODS

In total, 202 consecutive patients (64 [56-71] years of age, 160 men) with STEMI (n = 69 (34%)), NSTEMI (n = 94 (47%)), or unstable angina (n = 39 (19%)) and MVD who had undergone successful treatment of all culprit lesions were randomized 1:1 to angiography- vs. QFR-guided delayed revascularization of 246 non-culprit stenoses (1.2/patient).

RESULTS

The proportion of patients assigned to medical treatment versus percutaneous intervention was not different between groups (angiography group: 45 (45%) vs. QFR: 56 (55%), P = 0.125; relative risk = 0.80 (0.60-1.06)). At 12 months, a primary clinical endpoint event (composite of death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, revascularization, and significant angina) occurred in 24 patients (angiography-guided) and 23 patients (QFR-guided; P = 0.637, HR = 1.16 [0.63-2.15]). None of its components was different between groups.

DISCUSSION

QFR guidance based on analysis of images from the primary intervention was not associated with a difference in the rate of non-culprit lesion staged revascularization nor in the 12-month incidence of clinical events in patients with acute coronary syndromes and multivessel disease.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT04808310).

From Atherosclerotic Plaque to Myocardial Infarction-The Leading Cause of Coronary Artery Occlusion

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) constitutes the most common cause of death worldwide. In Europe alone, approximately 4 million people die annually due to CVD. The leading component of CVD leading to mortality is myocardial infarction (MI). MI is classified into several types. Type 1 is associated with atherosclerosis, type 2 results from inadequate oxygen supply to cardiomyocytes, type 3 is defined as sudden cardiac death, while types 4 and 5 are associated with procedures such as percutaneous coronary intervention and coronary artery bypass grafting, respectively. Of particular note is type 1, which is also the most frequently occurring form of MI. Factors predisposing to its occurrence include, among others, high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in the blood, cigarette smoking, chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, and familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH). The primary objective of this review is to elucidate the issues with regard to type 1 MI. Our paper delves into, amidst other aspects, its pathogenesis, risk assessment, diagnosis, pharmacotherapy, and interventional treatment options in both acute and long-term conditions.

Culprit-Only Revascularization, Single-Setting Complete Revascularization, and Staged Complete Revascularization in Acute Myocardial Infarction: Insights From a Mixed Treatment Comparison Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials

BACKGROUND

Complete revascularization improves cardiovascular outcomes compared with culprit-only revascularization in patients with acute myocardial infarction ([MI]; ST-segment-elevation MI or non-ST-segment-elevation MI) and multivessel coronary artery disease. However, the timing of complete revascularization (single-setting versus staged revascularization) is uncertain. The aim was to compare the outcomes of single-setting complete, staged complete, and culprit vessel-only revascularization in patients with acute MI and multivessel disease.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and clinicaltrials.gov databases were searched for randomized controlled trials that compared 3 revascularization strategies.

RESULTS

From 16 randomized controlled trials that randomized 11 876 patients with acute MI and multivessel disease, both single-setting complete and staged complete revascularization reduced primary outcome (cardiovascular mortality/MI; odds ratio [OR], 0.52 [95% CI, 0.41-0.65]; OR, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.62-0.88]), composite of all-cause mortality/MI (OR, 0.52 [95% CI, 0.40-0.67]; OR, 0.78 [95% CI, 0.67-0.91]), major adverse cardiovascular event (OR, 0.42 [95% CI, 0.32-0.56]; OR, 0.62 [95% CI, 0.47-0.82]), MI (OR, 0.39 [95% CI, 0.26-0.57]; OR, 0.73 [95% CI, 0.59-0.90]), and repeat revascularization (OR, 0.30 [95% CI, 0.18-0.47]; OR, 0.46 [95% CI, 0.30-0.71]) compared with culprit-only revascularization. Single-setting complete revascularization reduced cardiovascular mortality/MI (OR, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.55-0.91]), major adverse cardiovascular event (OR, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.50-0.91]), and all-cause mortality/MI driven by a lower risk of MI (OR, 0.53 [95% CI, 0.36-0.77]) compared with staged complete revascularization. Single-setting complete revascularization ranked number 1, followed by staged complete revascularization (number 2) and culprit-only revascularization (number 3) for all outcomes. The results were largely consistent in subgroup analysis comparing ST-segment-elevation MI versus non-ST-segment-elevation MI cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Single-setting complete revascularization may offer the greatest reductions in cardiovascular events in patients with acute MI and multivessel disease. A large-scale randomized trial of single-setting complete versus staged complete revascularization is warranted to evaluate the optimal timing of complete revascularization.

Complete versus partial revascularization for older adults with acute coronary syndrome: a meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized and multivariable adjusted data

BACKGROUND

Evidence from randomized studies support complete over culprit-only revascularization for patients with acute coronary artery syndrome (ACS) and multivessel coronary artery diseases (MVD). Whether these findings extend to elderly patients, however, has not been thoroughly explored.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing clinical outcomes of elderly individuals (defined as age ≥75 years) with ACS and MVD submitted to complete vs partial-only percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane were searched. We computed pooled hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI) to preserve time time-to-event data.

RESULTS

We included 7 studies, of which 2 were RCT and 5 were multivariable adjusted cohorts, comprising a total 10 147, of whom 43.8% underwent complete revascularization. As compared with partial-only PCI, complete revascularization was associated with a lower all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 0.71; 95% CI 0.60-0.85; P < 0.01), cardiovascular mortality (hazard ratio 0.64; 95% CI 0.52-0.79; P < 0.01), and recurrent myocardial infarction (hazard ratio 0.65; 95% CI 0.50-0.85; P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between groups regarding the risk of revascularizations (hazard ratio 0.80; 95% CI 0.53-1.20; P = 0.28).

CONCLUSION

Among elderly patients with ACS and multivessel CAD, complete revascularization is associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, and recurrent myocardial infarction.

Complete versus culprit-only percutaneous coronary intervention in elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome and multivessel coronary artery disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Culprit-only percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is commonly performed for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) with multivessel coronary artery disease (MVD) in the elderly. Complete revascularization has been shown to benefit the general population, yet its safety and efficacy in older patients are uncertain.

METHODS

Following PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing complete versus culprit-only PCI in patients ≥65 years old with ACS and MVD. The primary outcome was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Secondary outcomes included myocardial infarction (MI), ischemia-driven revascularization (IDR), all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular mortality. Data were pooled using a random effects model with a restricted maximum likelihood estimator to generate risk ratios (RRs).

RESULTS

Five RCTs with 4105 patients aged ≥65 years were included. Compared with culprit-only PCI, complete revascularization reduced MI (RR 0.65; 95 % CI 0.49-0.85; p < 0.01). MACE (RR 0.75; 95 % CI 0.54-1.05; p = 0.09) and IDR (RR 0.41; 95 % CI 0.16-1.04; p = 0.06) were not significantly different between both strategies among those aged ≥65. However, there was a significant reduction in MI (RR 0.69; 95 % CI 0.49-0.96; p-value = 0.03), MACE (RR 0.78; 95 % CI 0.65-0.94; p < 0.01), and IDR (RR 0.60; 95 % CI 0.41-0.89; p < 0.01) in those aged ≥75.

CONCLUSIONS

In elderly patients aged ≥65 years with ACS and MVD, a strategy of complete revascularization by PCI reduces MI compared to culprit-only PCI with no significant difference in MACE and IDR. However, complete revascularization reduced MI, MACE, and IDR in those aged ≥75 years suggesting a possible benefit in this age group.

A Narrative Review of Revascularization in Chronic Coronary Syndrome/Disease: Concepts and Misconceptions

Ischemic heart disease represents a significant global burden of morbidity and mortality. While revascularization strategies are well defined in acute settings, there are uncertainties regarding chronic coronary artery disease treatment. Recent trials have raised doubts about the necessity of revascularization for "stable", chronic coronary syndromes or disease, leading to a shift towards a more conservative approach. However, the issue remains far from settled. In this narrative review, we offer a summary of the most pertinent evidence regarding revascularization for chronic coronary disease, while reflecting on less-often-discussed details of major clinical trials. The cumulative evidence available indicates that there can be a prognostic benefit from revascularization in chronic coronary syndrome patients, provided there is significant ischemia, as demonstrated by either imaging or coronary physiology. Trials that have effectively met this criterion consistently demonstrate a reduction in rates of spontaneous myocardial infarction, which holds both prognostic and clinical significance. The prognostic benefit of revascularization in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction remains especially problematic, with a single contemporary trial favouring surgical revascularization. The very recent publication of a trial focused on revascularizing non-flow-limiting "vulnerable" plaques adds further complexity to the field. The ongoing debates surrounding revascularization in chronic coronary syndromes emphasize the importance of personalized strategies. Revascularization, added to the foundational pillar of medical therapy, should be considered, taking into account symptoms, patient preferences, coronary anatomy and physiology, ischemia tests and intra-coronary imaging.

The Evolving Field of Acute Coronary Syndrome Management: A Critical Appraisal of the 2023 European Society of Cardiology Guidelines for the Management of Acute Coronary Syndrome

Acute coronary syndromes (ACS), encompassing conditions like ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE-ACS), represent a significant challenge in cardiovascular care due to their complex pathophysiology and substantial impact on morbidity and mortality. The 2023 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) guidelines for ACS management introduce several updates in key areas such as invasive treatment timing in NSTE-ACS, pre-treatment strategies, approaches to multivessel disease, and the use of imaging modalities including computed tomography (CT) coronary angiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and intracoronary imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). They also address a modulation of antiplatelet therapy, taking into consideration different patient risk profiles, and introduce new recommendations for low-dose colchicine. These guidelines provide important evidence-based updates in practice, reflecting an evolution in the understanding and management of ACS, yet some potentially missed opportunities for more personalized care and technology adoption are discussed.

Evaluation of Nonculprit Coronary Artery Lesions in Patients with Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Background:

Multivessel coronary artery disease is a common finding during the primary percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). It might be a cause for recurrent attacks. This study aimed to evaluate nonculprit lesions (NCLs) encountered in the three major epicardial coronary arteries.

Methods:

Patients with STEMI who underwent PPCI and matched the study inclusion criteria were enrolled. They were evaluated clinically, biomedically, and coronary angiographically. The coronary angiography analysis was examined by four cardiologists using the Quantitative Coronary Artery Analysis software. The data was analyzed statistically.

Results:

Of the 154 patients included in the study, 130 (84.4%) were males and 24 (15.6%) were females, with a mean age of 52.92 ± 13.14 years. Five hundred seventy-four NCLs were found in 132 (85.7%) patients. Nonobstructive lesions with stenosis less than 70% of vessel diameter were more frequent than obstructive lesions. The left circumflex coronary artery (LCX) was the first one of the three major arteries to be affected by obstructive NCLs. The obstructive NCLs were 128 in number; found in 78 (50.4%) patients; 65 (50.8%) of them were in LCX; 32 (25%) were in left anterior descending (25%); and 31 (24.2%) were in right coronary artery.

Conclusions:

NCLs are common among STEMI patients. LCX obstructive NCLs are comparable to those in the other two major epicardial coronary arteries, with respect to frequency and severity of luminal stenosis.

[Management of acute coronary syndrome : ESC guidelines 2023]

The new guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) on the management of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in 2023 encompass updates for both the guidelines pertaining to ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and acute coronary syndrome without ST segment elevation (NSTE-ACS). The previously separated guidelines from 2017 and 2020 were therefore revised and summarized. These guidelines address various topics, including diagnostics, acute management, antithrombotic treatment, out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, cardiogenic shock, invasive strategies, and long-term treatment. The notable updates compared to earlier guidelines address the recommendation regarding the timing of invasive diagnostics in NSTE-ACS (Non-ST elevation acute coronary syndrome), the procedure of revascularization in multivessel coronary artery disease and alternative regimens for antithrombotic treatment in patients with a high risk of bleeding.

Effects of complete revascularization according to age in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel disease (COMPLETE-AGE)

BACKGROUND

In ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), complete revascularization with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) reduces major cardiovascular events compared with culprit-lesion-only PCI. Whether age influences these results remains unknown.

METHODS

COMPLETE was a multinational, randomized trial evaluating a strategy of staged complete revascularization, consisting of angiography-guided PCI of all suitable nonculprit lesions, versus a strategy of culprit-lesion-only PCI. In this prespecified subgroup analysis, treatment effect according to age (≥65 years vs <65 years) was determined for the first coprimary outcome of cardiovascular (CV) death or new myocardial infarction (MI) and the second coprimary outcome of CV death, new MI, or ischemia-driven revascularization (IDR). Median follow-up was 35.8 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 27.6-44.3 months).

RESULTS

Of 4,041 patients randomized in COMPLETE, 1,613 were aged ≥ 65 years (39.9%). Higher event rates were observed for both coprimary outcomes in patients aged ≥ 65 years comparted with those aged < 65 years (11.2% vs 7.9%, HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.22-1.83; 14.4% vs 11.8%, HR 1.28, 95% CI 1.07-1.52, respectively). Complete revascularization reduced the first coprimary outcome in patients ≥ 65 years (9.7% vs 12.5%, HR 0.77; 95% CI, 0.58-1.04) and < 65 years (6.7% vs 9.1%, HR 0.72; 95% CI, 0.54-0.96)(interaction P = .74). The second coprimary outcome was reduced in those ≥ 65 years (HR 0.56, 95% CI, 0.43-0.74) and < 65 years (HR 0.48, 95% CI, 0.37-0.61 (interaction P = .37). A sensitivity analysis was performed with consistent results demonstrated using a 75-year threshold (albeit attenuated).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with STEMI and multivessel CAD, complete revascularization compared with culprit-lesion-only PCI reduced major cardiovascular events regardless of patient age and could be considered as a revascularization strategy in older adults.

The Prognostic impact of treatments evolution in STEMI

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate in a real-world primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) registry the impact of the evolution of evidence-based treatments on prognosis.

METHODS

STEMI patients undergoing pPCI at the University Hospital of Trieste, Italy, were enrolled. The first cohort (old treatments cohort) included STEMI patients treated between January-2007 and December-2012, and the second cohort (new treatments cohort), between January-2013 and December-2020. Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighting (IPTW) Cox regression models as well as multivariable Cox regression models were performed to assess the risk of a composite primary endpoint (PE) of all cause death, reinfarction and re-PCI at 5 years.

RESULTS

A total of 2425 STEMI patients were enrolled. At multivariable Cox regression, the new-treatments cohort had lower risk of PE and mortality. Weighted (IPTW) Cox proportional hazard models confirmed the lower risk of the new treatments cohort for PE (HR 0.72; 95% CI 0.56-0.91, p = 0.007) and 5-year mortality (HR 0.70, 95%CI 0.54-0.91, p = 0.009). When considering both clinical and procedural variables, complete revascularization (HR 0.46, 95%CI 0.27-0.80, p = 0.006) and the administration of prasugrel or ticagrelor (HR 0.72, 95%CI 0.52-0.99, p = 0.013) were independent predictors of PE as well as of 5-year mortality. Patients receiving prasugrel or ticagrelor or drug eluting stent were at lower risk of 1-year stent thrombosis (HR 0.50, 95%CI 0.28-0.90, p = 0.021).

CONCLUSIONS

In a real-word STEMI population the prognosis of patients has improved in the last decades, and this was associated to the use of new antithrombotic treatments and to the implementation of complete revascularization.

Fractional Flow Reserve-Negative High-Risk Plaques and Clinical Outcomes After Myocardial Infarction

Importance

Even after fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided complete revascularization, patients with myocardial infarction (MI) have high rates of recurrent major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). These recurrences may be caused by FFR-negative high-risk nonculprit lesions.

Objective

To assess the association between optical coherence tomography (OCT)-identified high-risk plaques of FFR-negative nonculprit lesions and occurrence of MACE in patients with MI.

Design, Setting, and Participants

PECTUS-obs (Identification of Risk Factors for Acute Coronary Events by OCT After STEMI [ST-segment elevation MI] and NSTEMI [non-STEMI] in Patients With Residual Non-flow Limiting Lesions) is an international, multicenter, prospective, observational cohort study. In patients presenting with MI, OCT was performed on all FFR-negative (FFR > 0.80) nonculprit lesions. A high-risk plaque was defined containing at least 2 of the following prespecified criteria: (1) a lipid arc at least 90°, (2) a fibrous cap thickness less than 65 μm, and (3) either plaque rupture or thrombus presence. Patients were enrolled from December 14, 2018, to September 15, 2020. Data were analyzed from December 2, 2022, to June 28, 2023.

Main Outcome and Measure

The primary end point of MACE, a composite of all-cause mortality, nonfatal MI, or unplanned revascularization, at 2-year follow-up was compared in patients with and without a high-risk plaque.

Results

A total of 438 patients were enrolled, and OCT findings were analyzable in 420. Among included patients, mean (SD) age was 63 (10) years, 340 (81.0) were men, and STEMI and non-STEMI were equally represented (217 [51.7%] and 203 [48.3%]). A mean (SD) of 1.17 (0.42) nonculprit lesions per patient was imaged. Analysis of OCT images revealed at least 1 high-risk plaque in 143 patients (34.0%). The primary end point occurred in 22 patients (15.4%) with a high-risk plaque and 23 of 277 patients (8.3%) without a high-risk plaque (hazard ratio, 1.93 [95% CI, 1.08-3.47]; P = .02), primarily driven by more unplanned revascularizations in patients with a high-risk plaque (14 of 143 [9.8%] vs 12 of 277 [4.3%]; P = .02).

Conclusions and Relevance

Among patients with MI and FFR-negative nonculprit lesions, the presence of a high-risk plaque is associated with a worse clinical outcome, which is mainly driven by a higher number of unplanned revascularizations. In a population with a high recurrent event rate despite physiology-guided complete revascularization, these results call for research on additional pharmacological or focal treatment strategies in patients harboring high-risk plaques.

Effect of complete revascularization in acute coronary syndrome after 75 years old: insights from the BleeMACS registry

BACKGROUND

The prognostic benefit of complete revascularization in elderly patients (aged over 75 years) with multi-vessel disease and acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is currently unclear. This study aimed to determine the long-term prognostic impact of complete revascularization in this population.

METHODS

We conducted this study using data obtained from the BleeMACS (Bleeding complications in a Multicenter registry of patients discharged after an Acute Coronary Syndrome) registry, which was carried out from 2003 to 2014. The objective was to categorize older patients diagnosed with ACS into two groups: those who underwent complete revascularization and those who did not. Propensity score matching and the Kaplan-Meier analysis were employed to examine differences in one-year clinical outcomes. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), which encompassed a combination of all-cause mortality and myocardial infarction.

RESULTS

Out of 1263 patients evaluated, 445 patients (35.2%) received complete revascularization. Patients who underwent complete revascularization had a higher prevalence of hypertension and prior percutaneous coronary intervention compared to those who did not. During the one-year follow-up period, complete revascularization was associated with a significantly decreased risk of MACE [13.7% vs. 20.5%, hazard ratio (HR) = 0.63, 95% CI: 0.45-0.88, P = 0.007] and a lower risk of myocardial infarction (5.9% vs. 9.9%, HR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.33-0.92, P = 0.02). However, it was not linked to a lower risk of all-cause death (9.5% vs. 13.5%, HR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.45-1.02, P = 0.06). Similar results were observed in the subgroup analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term clinical improvements were observed in ACS patients aged over 75 years with multi-vessel disease who achieved complete revascularization. Therefore, adhering to guidelines for complete revascularization should be recommended for elderly patients.

Management of Residual Risk in Chronic Coronary Syndromes. Clinical Pathways for a Quality-Based Secondary Prevention

Chronic coronary syndrome (CCS), which encompasses a broad spectrum of clinical presentations of coronary artery disease (CAD), is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Recent guidelines for the management of CCS emphasize the dynamic nature of the CAD process, replacing the term "stable" with "chronic", as this disease is never truly "stable". Despite significant advances in the treatment of CAD, patients with CCS remain at an elevated risk of major cardiovascular events (MACE) due to the so-called residual cardiovascular risk. Several pathogenetic pathways (thrombotic, inflammatory, metabolic, and procedural) may distinctly contribute to the residual risk in individual patients and represent a potential target for newer preventive treatments. Identifying the level and type of residual cardiovascular risk is essential for selecting the most appropriate diagnostic tests and follow-up procedures. In addition, new management strategies and healthcare models could further support available treatments and lead to important prognostic benefits. This review aims to provide an overview of the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in the management of patients with CCS and to promote more effective multidisciplinary care.

Complete Revascularization Versus Culprit-Lesion-Only PCI in STEMI Patients With Diabetes and Multivessel Coronary Artery Disease: Results From the COMPLETE Trial

BACKGROUND

In the COMPLETE trial (Complete Versus Culprit-Only Revascularization to Treat Multivessel Disease After Early PCI for STEMI), a strategy of complete revascularization reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events compared with culprit-lesion-only percutaneous coronary intervention in patients presenting with ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multivessel coronary artery disease. Patients with diabetes have a worse prognosis following STEMI. We evaluated the consistency of the effects of complete revascularization in patients with and without diabetes.

METHODS

The COMPLETE trial randomized a strategy of complete revascularization, consisting of angiography-guided percutaneous coronary intervention of all suitable nonculprit lesions, versus a strategy of culprit-lesion-only percutaneous coronary intervention (guideline-directed medical therapy alone). In prespecified analyses, treatment effects were determined in patients with and without diabetes on the first coprimary outcome of cardiovascular death or new myocardial infarction and the second coprimary outcome of cardiovascular death, new myocardial infarction, or ischemia-driven revascularization. Interaction P values were calculated to evaluate whether there was a differential treatment effect in patients with and without diabetes.

RESULTS

Of the 4041 patients enrolled in the COMPLETE trial, 787 patients (19.5%) had diabetes. The median HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) was 7.7% in the diabetes group and 5.7% in the nondiabetes group. Complete revascularization consistently reduced the first coprimary outcome in patients with diabetes (hazard ratio, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.59-1.29]) and without diabetes (hazard ratio, 0.70 [95% CI, 0.55-0.90]), with no evidence of a differential treatment effect (interaction P=0.36). Similarly, for the second coprimary outcome, no differential treatment effect (interaction P=0.27) of complete revascularization was found in patients with diabetes (hazard ratio, 0.61 [95% CI, 0.43-0.87]) and without diabetes (hazard ratio, 0.48 [95% CI, 0.39-0.60]).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients presenting with STEMI and multivessel disease, the benefit of complete revascularization over a culprit-lesion-only percutaneous coronary intervention strategy was consistent regardless of the presence or absence of diabetes.

Comparison of long-term outcomes of complete vs. incomplete revascularization in elderly patients (≥75 years) with acute coronary syndrome and multi-vessel disease undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

The optimal revascularization strategy for elderly patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) remains uncertain. We evaluated the impact of complete revascularization (CR) vs. incomplete revascularization (IR) in elderly ACS patients with multivessel disease (MVD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

METHODS

Using registry data from 2011 to 2019, we conducted a propensity-score matched cohort study. Elderly patients (≥75 years) with ACS and MVD who underwent PCI were divided into CR and IR groups based on angiography during index hospitalization. Major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), including all-cause mortality, recurrent non-fatal myocardial infarction, and any revascularization, were assessed at 3-year follow-up.

RESULTS

Among 1,018 enrolled patients, 496 (48.7%) underwent CR and 522 (51.3%) received IR. After 1:1 propensity-score matching, we analyzed 395 pairs. At 3-year follow-up, CR was significantly associated with lower MACE risk compared to IR (16.7% vs. 25.6%, HR = 0.65, 95% CI: 0.47-0.88, p = 0.006), driven by reduced all-cause mortality. This benefit was consistent across all pre-specified subgroups, particularly in ST segment elevation (STE)-ACS patients. In non-STE (NSTE)-ACS subgroup analysis, CR was also associated with a lower risk of cardiac mortality compared to IR (HR = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.12-0.75, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

In elderly ACS patients with MVD undergoing PCI, CR demonstrates superior long-term outcomes compared to IR, irrespective of STE- or NSTE-ACS presentation.

Moving toward Precision Medicine in Acute Coronary Syndromes: A Multimodal Assessment of Non-Culprit Lesions

Patients with acute coronary syndrome and multivessel disease experience several recurrent adverse events that lead to poor outcomes. Given the complexity of treating these patients, and the extremely high risk of long-term adverse events, the assessment of non-culprit lesions becomes crucial. Recently, two trials have shown a possible clinical benefit into treat non-culprit lesions using a fraction flow reserve (FFR)-guided approach, compared to culprit-lesion-only PCI. However, the most recent FLOW Evaluation to Guide Revascularization in Multivessel ST-elevation Myocardial Infarction (FLOWER-MI) trial did not show a benefit of the use of FFR-guided PCI compared to an angiography-guided approach. Otherwise, intracoronary imaging using optical coherence tomography (OCT), intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), or near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) could provide both quantitative and qualitative assessments of non-culprit lesions. Different studies have shown how the characterization of coronary lesions with intracoronary imaging could lead to clinical benefits in these peculiar group of patients. Moreover, non-invasive evaluations of NCLs have begun to take ground in this context, but more insights through adequately powered and designed studies are needed. The aim of this review is to outline the available techniques, both invasive and non-invasive, for the assessment of multivessel disease in patients with STEMI, and to provide a systematic guidance on the assessment and approach to these patients.

Ischemia-guided vs routine non-culprit vessel angioplasty for patients with ST segment elevation myocardial infarction and multi-vessel disease: the IAEA SPECT STEMI trial

BACKGROUND

In patients with multi-vessel disease presenting with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the efficacy and safety of ischemia-guided, vs routine non-culprit vessel angioplasty has not been adequately studied.

METHODS

We conducted an international, randomized, non-inferiority trial comparing ischemia-guided non-culprit vessel angioplasty to routine non-culprit vessel angioplasty, following primary PCI for STEMI. The primary outcome was the between-group difference in percent ischemic myocardium at follow-up stress MPI. All MPI images were processed and analyzed at a central core lab, blinded to treatment allocation.

RESULTS

In all, 109 patients were enrolled from nine countries. In the ischemia-guided arm, 25/48 (47%) patients underwent non-culprit vessel PCI following stress MPI. In the routine non-culprit PCI arm, 43/56 (77%) patients underwent angioplasty (86% within 6 weeks of randomization). The median percentage of ischemic myocardium on follow-up imaging (mean 16.5 months) was low, and identical (2.9%) in both arms (difference 0.13%, 95%CI - 1.3%-1.6%, P < .0001; non-inferiority margin 5%).

CONCLUSION

A strategy of ischemia-guided non-culprit PCI resulted in low ischemia burden, and was non-inferior to a strategy of routine non-culprit vessel PCI in reducing ischemia burden. Selective non-culprit PCI following STEMI offers the potential for cost-savings, and may be particularly relevant to low-resource settings. (CTRI/2018/08/015384).

Current Role of Intracoronary Imaging for Implementing Risk Stratification and Tailoring Culprit Lesion Treatment: A Narrative Review

Our understanding of the pathophysiology of acute coronary syndrome and of the vascular biology of coronary atherosclerosis has made enormous progress with the implementation of intravascular imaging. Intravascular imaging contributes to overcoming the known limitations of coronary angiography and allows for the in vivo discrimination of plaque morphology giving insight into the underlying pathology of the disease process. The possibility of using intracoronary imaging to characterize lesion morphologies and correlate them with clinical presentations may influence the treatment of patients and improve risk stratification, offering the opportunity for tailored management. This review examines the current role of intravascular imaging and describes how intracoronary imaging represents a valuable tool for modern interventional cardiology in order to improve diagnostic accuracy and offer a tailored approach to the treatment of patients with coronary artery disease, especially in the acute setting.

Immediate versus staged complete revascularization in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel coronary artery disease: results from a prematurely discontinued randomized multicenter trial

BACKGROUND

We aimed to compare clinical outcomes between immediate and staged complete revascularization in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for treating ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multivessel disease (MVD).

METHODS

A total of 248 patients were enrolled in a prospective, randomized, and multicenter registry. Immediate revascularization was defined as one-time PCI of culprit and non-culprit lesions at the initial procedure. Staged revascularization was defined as PCI of non-culprit lesions at a later date (mean, 4.4 days; interquartile range, 1-11.4), following initial culprit revascularization. The end points were major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; composite of total death, recurrent myocardial infarction, and revascularization), any individual components of MACE, cardiac death, stent thrombosis, and stroke at 12 months.

RESULTS

During a follow-up of 1 year, MACE occurred in 12 patients (11.6%) in the immediate revascularization group and in 8 patients (7.5%) in staged revascularization group (hazard ratio [HR] 1.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65-3.91). The incidence of total death was numerically higher in the immediate group than in the staged group (9.7% vs 2.8%, HR 3.53, 95% CI 0.97-12.84); There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in risks of any individual component of MACE, cardiac death, stroke, and in-hospital complications, such as need for transfusion, bleeding, acute renal failure, and acute heart failure. This study was prematurely terminated due to halt of production of everolimus-eluting stents (manufactured as PROMUS Element by Boston Scientific, Natick, Massachusetts).

CONCLUSIONS

Due to its limited power, no definite conclusion can be drawn regarding complete revascularization strategy from the present study. Further large randomized clinical trials would be warranted to confirm optimal timing of complete revascularization for patients with STEMI and MVD.

Complete revascularization in acute myocardial infarction: a clinical review

In patients with ST segment elevation and non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (MI), multivessel (MV) coronary artery disease is found in approximately 50%, leading to worse clinical outcomes. Recent data have suggested that complete revascularization with MV percutaneous coronary intervention is associated with a reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events as compared to culprit vessel-only revascularization. However, the optimal timing of MV intervention, appropriate non-culprit lesion assessment, and the best revascularization strategy in specific subsets such as cardiogenic shock remain to be established. This review article summarizes current evidence on revascularization strategies in patients with acute MI and MV disease.

Management of Non-Culprit Lesions in STEMI Patients with Multivessel Disease

Multivessel disease is observed in approximately 50% of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Data from randomized clinical trials has shown that complete revascularization in the STEMI setting improves clinical outcomes by reducing the risk of reinfarction and urgent revascularization. However, the timing and modality of revascularization of non-culprit lesions are still debated. PCI of non-culprit lesions can be performed during the index primary PCI or as a staged procedure and can be guided by angiography, functional assessment, or intracoronary imaging. In this review, we summarize the available evidence about the management of non-culprit lesions in STEMI patients with or without cardiogenic shock.

Treatment strategies of acute myocardial infarction: updates on revascularization, pharmacological therapy, and beyond

Owing to recent advances in early reperfusion strategies, pharmacological therapy, standardized care, and the identification of vulnerable patient subsets, the prognosis of acute myocardial infarction has improved. However, there is still considerable room for improvement. This review article summarizes the latest evidence concerning clinical diagnosis and treatment of acute myocardial infarction.

Coronary angiography- or fractional flow reserve-guided complete revascularization in multivessel disease STEMI: A Bayesian hierarchical network meta-analysis

AIMS

To identify the best strategy to achieve complete revascularization (CR) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multi-vessel disease (MVD).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We systematically reviewed the literature for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IRA-only PCI and CR guided by angiography or fractional flow reserve (FFR) in MVD-STEMI. Both frequentist (classical) and Bayesian network meta-analysis were performed, including a comparative hierarchy estimation of the probability to reduce the primary composite endpoint of all-cause death and new myocardial infarction (MI). We identified 11 RCTs, including 8193 STEMI patients. Compared with IRA-only strategy, CR significantly reduced the primary endpoint (OR: 0.73; 95%CI0.55-0.97). We observed non-significant difference between angiography and FFR guidance in reducing the primary endpoint (OR: 0.73, 95% CI 0.35-1.57). The Bayesian probability analysis ranked angio-guided CR as the best intervention yielding lowest risk of all-cause death or new MI (SUCRA92%).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with MVD-STEMI, CR is associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality and new MI compared with IRA-only PCI. Angio-guided CR is associated with the lowest risk of all-cause death or new MI, therefore the role of FFR-guidance in this setting is questionable.

CONDENSED ABSTRACT

Both frequentist and Bayesian network meta-analysis were performed to compare infarct-related artery (IRA)-only percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and complete revascularization (CR) guided by angiography or fractional flow reserve (FFR) in multivessel disease (MVD) and acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Eleven randomized controlled trials were identified, including 8193 STEMI patients. Compared with IRA-only strategy, CR significantly reduced the incidence of the composite endpoint of all-cause death and new myocardial infarction without significant difference in angio-guided and FFR-guided CR. The Bayesian probability analysis ranked angio-guided CR as the best intervention yielding lowest risk of the composite endpoint and, therefore the role of FFR-guidance in this setting is questionable.

Association of Residual Ischemic Disease With Clinical Outcomes After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUND

Anatomical scoring systems have been used to assess completeness of revascularization but are challenging to apply to large real-world datasets.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of complete revascularization and its association with longitudinal clinical outcomes in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system using an automatically computed anatomic complexity score.

METHODS

Patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) between October 1, 2007, and September 30, 2020, were identified, and the burden of prerevascularization and postrevascularization ischemic disease was quantified using the VA SYNTAX (Synergy Between PCI With Taxus and Cardiac Surgery) score. The association between residual VA SYNTAX score and long-term major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; death, myocardial infarction, repeat revascularization, and stroke) was assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 57,476 veterans underwent PCI during the study period. After adjustment, the highest tertile of residual VA SYNTAX score was associated with increased hazard of MACE (HR: 2.06; 95% CI: 1.98-2.15) and death (HR: 1.50; 95% CI: 1.41-1.59) at 3 years compared to complete revascularization (residual VA SYNTAX score = 0). Hazard of 1- and 3-year MACE increased as a function of residual disease, regardless of baseline disease severity or initial presentation with acute or chronic coronary syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

Residual ischemic disease was strongly associated with long-term clinical outcomes in a contemporary national cohort of PCI patients. Automatically computed anatomic complexity scores can be used to assess the longitudinal risk for residual ischemic disease after PCI and may be implemented to improve interventional quality.

Long-term risk of new-onset arrhythmia in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction according to revascularization status

Aims

Emerging data show that complete revascularization (CR) reduces cardiovascular death and recurrent myocardial infarction in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, the influence of revascularization status on development of arrhythmia in the long-term post-STEMI phase is poorly described. We hypothesized that incomplete revascularization (ICR) compared with CR in STEMI is associated with an increased long-term risk of new-onset arrhythmia.

Methods and results

Patients with STEMI treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) at Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Denmark, with CR or ICR were identified via the Eastern Danish Heart registry from 2009 to 2016. Using unique Danish administrative registries, the outcomes were assessed. The primary outcome was new-onset arrhythmia defined as a composite of atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF), sinoatrial block, advanced second- or third-degree atrioventricular block, ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation (VT), or cardiac arrest (CA), with presentation &gt;7 days post-PPCI. Secondary outcomes were the components of the primary outcome and all-cause mortality. A total of 5103 patients (median age: 62.0 years; 76% men) were included, of whom 4009 (79%) and 1094 (21%) patients underwent CR and ICR, respectively. Compared with CR, ICR was associated with a higher risk of new-onset arrhythmia [hazard ratio (HR), 1.33; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.07–1.66; P = 0.01], AF (HR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.00–1.66; P = 0.05), a combined outcome of VT and CA (HR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.10–2.84; P = 0.02) and all-cause mortality (HR, 1.27; 95% CI, 1.05–1.53; P = 0.01). All HRs adjusted.

Conclusion

Among patients with STEMI, ICR was associated with an increased long-term risk of new-onset arrhythmia and all-cause mortality compared with CR.

One-year results from the Assessing MICRO-vascular resistances via IMR to predict outcome in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients with multivessel disease undergoing primary PCI (AMICRO) trial

BACKGROUND

In ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary angioplasty (PPCI) the index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR) correlates to the extent of myocardial damage and left ventricular (LV) function recovery. Data on the IMR time-course and impact on clinical outcome in STEMI patients with multi-vessel disease (MVD) are scarce.

AIMS

We designed a prospective, multicenter clinical trial to assess the infarct-related artery (IRA)-IMR in STEMI patients with MVD undergoing PPCI and to explore its potential in relationship with outcome and LV remodeling.

METHODS

The study enrolled 242 STEMI patients with MVD. Both fractional flow reserve (FFR) and IMR of the IRA were assessed after successful PPCI. Then, FFR/IMR measurements were repeated in the IRA at a staged angiography, and FFR-guided angioplasty was performed in non-IRA lesions. The primary endpoint was the composite of cardiovascular death, re-infarction, re-hospitalization for heart failure, resuscitation or appropriate ICD shock at 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

A significant improvement of IRA-IMR values (from 47.9 to 34.2, p < 0.0001) was observed early after PPCI. Staged FFR-guided angioplasty was performed in 102 non-IRA lesions. We failed to find a correlation between IRA-IMR, clinical events and LV remodeling. Notwithstanding, in patients with anterior STEMI an inverse correlation between initial IMR values and LV function at follow-up was observed.

CONCLUSION

After successful PPCI, a significant proportion of patients with STEMI and MVD had coronary microvascular dysfunction as assessed by IMR that recovered early after reperfusion. Higher IMR values predicted lack of improvement of LV function only in anterior STEMI.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier [NCT02325973].

Angiographic quantitative flow ratio in acute coronary syndrome: beyond a tool to define ischemia-causing stenosis-a literature review

Background and Objective

Numerous studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of physiology-guided coronary revascularization in chronic coronary syndrome, resulting in a high level of guideline recommendation for these patients. However, the application of coronary physiology in acute coronary syndrome (ACS), especially in the acute phase of myocardial infarction, remains challenging. Over the last decade, the number of novel physiological indices derived from the computation of angiography have been developed as alternatives to pressure wire-based fractional flow reserve. Among these angiography-based indices, the quantitative flow ratio (QFR) is undoubtedly the one with the largest amount of data cumulated so far. In this article, we aim to review the related studies that describe efforts to investigate the diagnostic role of QFR and discuss perspectives for its current and future applications in the setting of the ACS.

Methods

A literature search was performed on the electronic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar and Web of Science covering publications in English up to May 2022.

Key Content and Findings

An emerging body of evidence has validated the diagnostic accuracy of angiography-derived QFR for the assessment of functional severity of coronary stenosis in both acute and chronic coronary syndromes. In parallel, multiple technologies, i.e., QFR-based pullback pressure gradient index, angiography-derived index of microcirculatory resistance and intravascular imaging-based morphofunctional evaluation methods, have been proposed, allowing operators to easily obtained physiological data of micro and macro-circulation, together with atherosclerotic lesion characteristics in catheterization laboratories. More recently, promising results supporting the clinical value of QFR in guiding revascularization and predicting outcomes for ACS patients have been published.

Conclusions

Angiography-based QFR bears the potential of a wider adoption of coronary physiology assessment in the ACS setting due to its quicker and less-invasive nature. However, the current evidence mainly derived from retrospective studies or post-hoc analyses of prospective trials. Future studies are needed to further explore the benefits of QFR-guided revascularization on outcomes in ACS.

Incidence, Predictive Factors and Long-Term Clinical Impact of Left Ventricular Remodeling According to the Completeness of Revascularization in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Multivessel Disease

In this study, we identified several factors related to left ventricular remodeling (LVR) and examined the impact of LVR on the prognosis of patients with ST-elevated myocardial infarction and multivessel disease treated with complete (CR) or incomplete (IR) revascularization. LVR was defined as an LV end-diastolic diameter >55 mm. A total of 262 patients without LVR at presentation were followed up with echocardiography between 1 month and 1 year. The primary outcome was a composite of all-cause death (AD), MI, and heart failure (HF), referred to as a major adverse cardiovascular endpoint (MACE). Then, each variable was analyzed as a secondary outcome. Follow-up echocardiography identified 26 patients (9.9%) with LVR. LVR was associated with an initial LV ejection fraction <50%, Killip 3 disease at presentation, and a peak troponin I level >70 mg/dL. Survival analysis showed an association between LVR and adverse outcomes only in the IR group, in which the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) was increased for the MACE (HR = 3.22, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.19−8.71, p = 0.002) and HF (HR = 21.37, 95% CI = 4.47−102.09, p< 0.001), but not for the CR group. In STEMI with MVD, LVR within the first year after percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with worse outcomes in the IR but not the CR group.

[Application of wearable 12-lead electrocardiogram devices in pre-hospital diagnosis of acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the value of wearable 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) devices in pre-hospital diagnosis of acute ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS

This analysis was conducted among 441 patients selected from the''National ECG Network'', who used wearable 12-lead ECG device with critical situation warning of ST change between January 2019, and August, 2021.The general characteristics, response time and complaints of the patients with STEMI were analyzed.The accuracy of pre-hospital diagnosis of STEMI was compared between clinician's interpretation of ECGs and AI diagnosis by the wearable ECG device.

RESULTS

In 89 of the patients, a pre-hospital diagnosis of STEMI was made by physicians based on ECGs from the wearable devices, and 58 of them sought medical attention after online warning, with a referral rate of 65.17%.The average time for diagnostic assessment of the ECGs was 153.02 s, and the average time for confirmation of the diagnosis was 178.06 s.The sensitivity for pre-hospital diagnosis of STEMI by clinician's interpretation of the ECGs and by AI diagnosis was 100% and 88.37%, respectively, with a specificity of 95.40% and 79.31%, respectively.The pre-hospital diagnosis by clinicians and AI diagnosis of STEMI both showed a high consistency with the subsequent definite clinical diagnosis of STEMI.

CONCLUSION

Wearable 12-lead ECG devices can accurately record ECG characteristics of STEMI patients outside the hospital and allow immediate data uploading for an early diagnosis.The diagnoses of STEMI made based on AI technology are highly consistent with those by clinicians, demonstrating excellent clinical performance of the wearable ECG devices.

Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention and Application of the Pharmacoinvasive Approach Within ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Care Networks

The management of acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has transitioned from observation and reactive treatment of hemodynamic and arrhythmic complications to accelerated reperfusion and application of evidence-based treatment to minimize morbidity and mortality. International research established the importance of timely reperfusion therapy and the application of fibrinolysis, primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and subsequent development of the pharmacoinvasive approach. Clinician thought leaders developed and investigated comprehensive systems of care to optimize the outcomes of patients with STEMI, with a key focus in Canada being the integration of prehospital paramedics in diagnosis, triage, and treatment. This article will review highlights of these interventions and identify future challenges and opportunities in STEMI patient care.

Meta-Analysis Comparing Fractional Flow Reserve and Angiography-Guided Complete Revascularization of Nonculprit Artery for ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

This study aimed to compare complete revascularization (CR) guided by angiography with a fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided strategy in patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multivessel disease (MVD). CR is preferred to culprit-only revascularization for patients with STEMI and MVD. However, whether FFR-guided CR is superior to angiography-guided CR is unclear in patients presenting with STEMI who have MVD. Randomized controlled trials comparing CR with an FFR- or angiography-guided strategy to culprit-only revascularization in patients with STEMI and MVD were systematically identified. A random-effects network meta-analysis was performed comparing clinical outcomes in the 3 arms. A total of 13 studies with a total of 8,927 patients were included in our analysis. Compared with culprit-only revascularization, angiography-guided CR was associated with a significantly decreased risk of myocardial infarction (MI) (hazard ratio [HR] 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.37 to 0.82), all-cause death (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.49 to 0.97), and cardiovascular death (HR 0.54, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.85) but FFR-guided CR was not (MI: HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.12; cardiovascular death: HR 0.89, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.24; all-cause death: HR 0.93, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.18). The network meta-analysis comparison of angiography- versus FFR-guided CR showed an HR of 0.75 (95% CI 0.50 to 1.11) for all-cause death and an HR of 0.71 (95% CI 0.54 to 1.17) for MI. In conclusion, for patients with MVD presenting with STEMI, angiography-guided CR may provide additional benefits compared with FFR-guided CR.

Management of patients with ST-segment myocardial infarction and multivessel disease: what are the options in 2022?

Multivessel coronary disease is a frequent finding in patients with STEMI. However, choosing the optimal treatment strategy for these patients can be challenging. The benefit of complete versus culprit-vessel-only revascularization demonstrated by several studies led to a change in the current 2018 ESC/EACTS revascularization guidelines recommending treatment of nonculprit lesions before hospital discharge. This article summarizes current data in this area, looks at remaining knowledge gaps and gives an outlook regarding ongoing trials. The latter will provide further robust evidence for the optimal management of patients with STEMI and multivessel disease.

Current recommendations for revascularization of non-infarct-related artery in patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and multivessel disease

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Immediate reperfusion therapy of the infarct-related artery (IRA) is the mainstay of treatment, either via primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) or thrombolytic therapy when PPCI is not feasible. Several studies have reported the incidence of multivessel disease (MVD) to be about 50% of total STEMI cases. This means that after successful PPCI of the IRA, residual lesion(s) of the non-IRA may persist. Unlike the atherosclerotic plaque of stable coronary artery disease, the residual obstructive lesion of the non-IRA contains a significantly higher prevalence of vulnerable plaques. Since these lesions are a strong predictor of acute coronary syndrome, if left untreated they are a possible cause of future adverse cardiovascular events. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of the obstructive lesion of the non-IRA to achieve complete revascularization (CR) is therefore preferable. Several major randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses demonstrated the clinical benefits of the CR strategy in the setting of STEMI with MVD, not only for enhancing survival but also for reducing unplanned revascularization. The CR strategy is now supported by recently published clinical practice guidelines. Nevertheless, the benefit of revascularization must be weighed against the risks from additional procedures.

Angiography versus FFR guided complete revascularization versus culprit-only revascularization for patients presenting with STEMI: Network meta-analysis

This study aimed to compare the outcomes of different revascularization strategies among patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and multivessel coronary artery disease (MVD) undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). MVD is present in about one-half of patients presenting with STEMI. Despite several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing complete revascularization (CR) and culprit-only revascularization (COR), the optimal PCI strategy for STEMI patients with MVD remains unsettled. Moreover, it is unclear whether angiography-guided CR or fractional flow reserve (FFR)-guided CR is associated with better outcomes. PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library were searched for RCTs comparing CR strategies with COR strategy in patients with STEMI between January 1, 2000 and September 30, 2021 were identified. A frequentist network meta-analyses were performed for three PCI strategies: (1) COR; (2) angiography-guided CR; and (3) FFR-guided CR. Ten RCTs including 7979 patients were included. A strategy of angiography-guided CR or FFR-guided CR was associated with a significantly lower rate of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and unplanned revascularization compared with COR. Although there were no statistical significant difference between angiography-guided CR and FFR-guided CR, P score analysis showed that angiography-guided CR was ranked as the best strategy for reducing MACE, all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, recurrent myocardial infarction, and unplanned revascularization. In patients presenting with STEMI and MVD undergoing primary PCI, angiography-guided CR or FFR-guided CR improve outcomes compared with COR. Furthermore, the strategy of angiography-guided CR ranked as the best revascularization strategy in those patients.

Approccio diagnostico e terapeutico al paziente con sindrome coronarica acuta

The current management strategy of acute coronary syndromes aims at symptoms relief as well as at specifically antagonizing each of the different pathogenic components of myocardial ischemia, including the pro-thrombotic state, poor coronary flow and myocardial damage.

Different approaches are available, including revascularization procedures and pharmacological interventions. Various anti-anginal, anti-thrombotic and anti-coagulant drugs can be used according to individual features and needs, as well as secondary prevention measures based on statin use and ACE-inhibition. The appropriate use of available measures is crucial to reduce mortality and improve long-term prognosis in patients with acute coronary syndromes.

Protocolized Post-Cardiac Arrest Care with Targeted Temperature Management

Improvements in teamwork and resuscitation science have considerably increased the success rate of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Cerebral injury, myocardial dysfunction, systemic ischemia and reperfusion response, and precipitating pathology after the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) constitute post-cardiac arrest syndrome. Because the entire body is involved in cardiac arrest and the early post-arrest period, protocolized post-arrest care consisting of cardiovascular optimization, ventilation and oxygenation adjustment, coronary revascularization, targeted temperature management (TTM), and control of seizures and blood sugar would benefit survival and neurological outcomes. Emergent coronary angiography is suggested for cardiac arrest survivors suspected of having ST-elevation myocardial infarction, however the superiority of culprit or complete revascularization in patients with multivessel coronary lesions remains undetermined. High-quality TTM should be considered for comatose patients who are successfully resuscitated from cardiac arrest, however the optimal target temperature may depend on the severity of their condition. The optimal timing for making prognostication should be no earlier than 72 h after rewarming in TTM patients, and 72 h following ROSC in non-TTM patients. To predict neurological recovery correctly may need the use of several prognostic tools together, including clinical neurological examinations, brain images, neurological studies and biomarkers.