Radial versus femoral access and bivalirudin versus unfractionated heparin in invasively managed patients with acute coronary syndrome (MATRIX): final 1-year results of a multicentre, randomised controlled trial

Outcomes of complex, high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with severe aortic stenosis: the ASCoP registry

BACKGROUND

There is a lack of evidence to guide treatment of patients with a concomitant indication for transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) and complex, high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

AIMS

We aimed to assess different strategies of PCI timing in this high-risk TAVI cohort.

METHODS

The ASCoP registry retrospectively included patients with a clinical indication for both TAVI and PCI with at least 1 criterion of complex or high-risk PCI. The primary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death and unplanned rehospitalisation for cardiovascular causes. The secondary endpoint was a composite of all-cause death, stroke, acute myocardial infarction, major bleeding, major vascular complication and unplanned revascularisation. Multivariable analysis was used to adjust for possible confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 519 patients were included: 363 (69.9%) underwent staged procedures and 156 (30.1%) concomitant TAVI and PCI. After 441 (interquartile range 182-824) days, the primary endpoint occurred in 151 (36.5%) cases, without any significant difference between the 2 groups (p=0.98), while the secondary endpoint occurred more frequently in the concomitant group (n=36 [25.8%] vs n=57 [17.4%]; p=0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients undergoing TAVI and complex/high-risk PCI, a concomitant strategy is associated with a higher rate of adverse events and increased procedural risk. (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05750927).

Distal access and procedural anticoagulation to prevent radial artery occlusion after coronary angiography - the randomised RAPID trial

BACKGROUND

Distal transradial access (TRA) and procedural anticoagulation (AC) are among the strategies to prevent radial artery occlusion (RAO) that have some gaps in evidence.

AIMS

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of different radial access sites and procedural AC in patients undergoing coronary angiography (CAG).

METHODS

The RAPID trial is a single-centre, open-label, 2x2 factorial study that randomised patients to procedural AC versus no procedural AC and also to distal versus conventional TRA with further stratification according to pre-existing oral AC. Patients with indicated percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were excluded from the analysis. The primary endpoints were the incidence of RAO, assessed by vascular ultrasound, and bleeding events.

RESULTS

The trial was stopped early for efficacy by the data and safety monitoring board after the second preplanned interim analysis and inclusion of 600 participants. Excluding patients with indicated PCI, the final study population consisted of 439 patients. Distal TRA was associated with more access site crossovers (14.9% vs 8.3%; p=0.032) and a longer total procedure time (25 min vs 20 min; p=0.001) than conventional TRA. The rates of RAO (20.3% vs 21.2%; p=0.810) and bleeding events (4.1% vs 6.9%; p=0.188) were similar after distal and conventional TRA. In contrast, procedural AC reduced the incidence of RAO (7.3% vs 33.9%; p<0.001) without increasing bleeding risk (7.3% vs 3.6%; p=0.087). These results were consistent in patients on pre-existing oral AC and those with distal TRA.

CONCLUSIONS

While distal TRA did not reduce the risk of RAO, procedural AC proved effective in all patients undergoing transradial CAG including those on pre-existing oral AC. (Strategies to Maintain Radial Artery Patency Following Diagnostic Coronary Angiography [RAPID] trial; ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04301921 [RAPID-1] and NCT04362020 [RAPID-2]).

2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes" incorporates new evidence since the "2013 ACCF/AHA Guideline for the Management of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction" and the corresponding "2014 AHA/ACC Guideline for the Management of Patients With Non-ST-Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes" and the "2015 ACC/AHA/SCAI Focused Update on Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Patients With ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction." The "2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes" and the "2021 ACC/AHA/SCAI Guideline for Coronary Artery Revascularization" retire and replace, respectively, the "2016 ACC/AHA Guideline Focused Update on Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from July 2023 to April 2024. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

Feasibility of Distal Radial Access in High Bleeding Risk Patients Who Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

BACKGROUNDS AND OBJECTIVES

The distal radial access (DRA), a potential alternative to the trans-radial approach (TRA), may offer advantages in terms of access site complications due to its smaller vessel diameter, especially for high bleeding risk (HBR) patients. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of DRA in HBR patients.

METHODS

Based on data from the KODRA registry, a prospective, multicenter cohort, this study analyzed 1,586 patients who underwent successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) via DRA. Patients were categorized into HBR and non-HBR groups. The primary endpoint of the study is DRA-related bleeding, and the secondary endpoints of the study are overall access site complications and each component of the access site complications. To reduce the effect of potential confounders, a multivariable adjustment analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The mean age of the total population was 71.1±10.8 years, and 40.3% of patients were female. Both DRA-related bleeding (odds ratio [OR], 1.15; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.67-1.97; p=0.616) and overall access site complications (OR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.67-1.72; p=0.761) were not significantly different between the HBR group and non-HBR group after multivariable adjustment. No major bleeding before discharge was observed in both groups. Furthermore, the incidence of distal and conventional radial artery occlusion was less than 1% at 1-month follow-up in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study results showed the safety of DRA for both DRA-related bleeding and access site complications among HBR patients who underwent PCI.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04080700.

Bivalirudin Versus Heparin in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Acute Coronary Syndromes

INTRODUCTION

Data on outcomes between unfractionated heparin and bivalirudin anticoagulation during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in acute coronary syndromes remain inconclusive. We aimed to systematically analyze PCI outcomes by comparing unfractionated heparin and bivalirudin.

METHODS

We systematically searched Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Ovid Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Scopus, and Web of Science from database inception in 1966 through January 2024 for studies evaluating PCI outcomes comparing unfractionated heparin and bivalirudin. Two investigators independently reviewed the data. Conflicts were resolved through consensus. Random-effects meta-analyses were used.

RESULTS

A total of 10 prospective trials were identified that enrolled 42,253 individuals who presented with an acute coronary syndrome. Our analysis found that heparin when compared to bivalirudin was associated with an increased risk of trial-based definition of major bleeding [relative risk (RR): 1.68, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29-2.20], nonaccess site complications (RR: 4.6, 95% CI: 1.75-12.09), thrombolysis in myocardial infarction major bleeding (RR: 1.70, 95% CI: 1.20-2.41), major bleeding risks (RR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.49-2.36), cardiovascular disease death (RR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.02-1.57), and thrombocytopenia (RR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.07-2.62). There were no statistically significant differences between heparin and bivalirudin for all-cause mortality, major adverse cardiovascular event, stroke, reinfarction, target vessel revascularization, and acute or stent thrombosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The present meta-analysis demonstrates bivalirudin reduces major bleeding when used for anticoagulation during PCI in patients with acute coronary syndromes and is not associated with an increased risk of stent thrombosis or major adverse cardiovascular event.

Intravascular Imaging-Guided Versus Angiography-Guided Complex PCI in Patients With High Bleeding Risk: A Secondary Analysis of the RENOVATE-COMPLEX PCI Trial

BACKGROUND

Although patients with high bleeding risk (HBR) often have complex coronary artery lesions, it is not known whether intravascular imaging-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) improves their prognosis. We sought to investigate the benefit of intravascular imaging-guided PCI for complex coronary artery lesions in patients with HBR.

METHODS

This was a secondary analysis of the RENOVATE-COMPLEX-PCI trial (Randomized Controlled Trial of Intravascular Imaging Guidance Versus Angiography-Guidance on Clinical Outcomes After Complex Percutaneous Coronary Intervention) in which patients with complex coronary artery lesions undergoing PCI were enrolled at 20 sites in Korea from May 2018 through May 2021. Patients were randomized to receive intravascular imaging-guided PCI or angiography-guided PCI and classified according to the presence of HBR. The primary end point was target vessel failure, which was a composite of cardiac death, target vessel-related myocardial infarction, or clinically driven target vessel revascularization.

RESULTS

Of 1639 trial population, 478 patients met HBR criteria. There was no significant difference in the risk of the primary end point between HBR and non-HBR patients (11.8% versus 8.2%; adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.05 [95% CI, 0.72-1.54]; P=0.790). However, patients with HBR were at higher risk for cardiac death or spontaneous target vessel-related myocardial infarction (adjusted HR, 2.04 [95% CI, 1.09-3.80]; P=0.025), all-cause death (adjusted HR, 3.30 [95% CI, 1.93-5.62]; P<0.001), and cardiac death (adjusted HR, 2.36 [95% CI, 1.10-5.09]; P=0.028). Intravascular imaging-guided PCI showed a lower risk of the primary end point compared with angiography-guided PCI in both HBR patients (9.7% versus 15.8%; adjusted HR, 0.57 [95% CI, 0.31-1.02]; P=0.060) and non-HBR patients (6.9% versus 10.8%; adjusted HR, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.43-0.99]; P=0.045), without significant interaction (P for interaction=0.796).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with HBR were associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular events after complex PCI compared with those without HBR. Intravascular imaging-guided PCI showed a lower risk of the target vessel failure without significant interaction between treatment strategy and the presence of HBR in patients undergoing complex PCI.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03381872.

Acute Coronary Syndromes in Women: A Narrative Review of Sex-Specific Characteristics

Acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) encompass a spectrum of life-threatening cardiovascular conditions, including unstable angina (UA) and myocardial infarction. While significant progress has been made in the understanding and management of ACS over the years, it has become increasingly evident that sex-based differences play a pivotal role in the pathophysiology, presentation, and outcomes of these conditions. Despite this recognition, the majority of clinical research in the field has historically focused on male populations, leading to a significant knowledge gap in understanding the unique aspects of ACS in women. This review article aims to comprehensively explore and synthesize the current body of literature concerning the sex-specific characteristics of ACS, shedding light on the epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, treatment strategies, and prognosis in women. By elucidating the distinct aspects of ACS in women, this review intends to foster greater awareness and improved clinical management, ultimately contributing to enhanced cardiovascular care for female patients.

2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes" incorporates new evidence since the "2013 ACCF/AHA Guideline for the Management of ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction" and the corresponding "2014 AHA/ACC Guideline for the Management of Patients With Non-ST-Elevation Acute Coronary Syndromes" and the "2015 ACC/AHA/SCAI Focused Update on Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Patients With ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction." The "2025 ACC/AHA/ACEP/NAEMSP/SCAI Guideline for the Management of Patients With Acute Coronary Syndromes" and the "2021 ACC/AHA/SCAI Guideline for Coronary Artery Revascularization" retire and replace, respectively, the "2016 ACC/AHA Guideline Focused Update on Duration of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from July 2023 to April 2024. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

Portuguese National Registry of Interventional Cardiology: Official report of percutaneous coronary angiography and intervention from 2014 to 2023

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

To present the report on the trends in percutaneous coronary activity data in Portugal from the last decade (from 2014 to 2023).

METHODS

Data were extracted from the Portuguese National Registry of Interventional Cardiology (RNCI) and the numbers in recent years were compared and complemented by information from the 2023 European Society of Cardiology Atlas in Interventional Cardiology (IC) survey, which was administered to the director of every IC department. Linear regression analysis was used to assess trends in activity over time.

RESULTS

From 2014 to 2023, there were 160101 percutaneous coronary interventions reported in the RNCI. The number of annual PCI in the last decade remained constant (1360/million inhabitants in 2014 to 1322/million in 2023; R2=0.039, p=0.276). Importantly, there was a 22% increase in primary PCI (306/million inhabitants in 2014 to 374/million inhabitants in 2023; R2=0.759, p<0.001) and there was a decrease in the geographical disparities in primary PCI across Portugal. The following PCI trends were noted: a 43% increase in PCI performed by radial access (57.4% in 2014 to 82.1% in 2023; R2=0.908, p<0.001), a 27% increase in drug-eluting stents (78.4% in 2014 to 99.2% of all PCI with stents in 2023; R2=0.638, p=0.003), and a 47% decrease of thrombectomy in primary PCI (35.0% in 2014 to 18.6% in 2023; R2=0.649, p=0.003). There was a slight increase in the use of intracoronary diagnostic devices during PCI, with intravascular imaging and physiological assessments reaching 7.6% and 4.2%, respectively, in 2023.

CONCLUSION

The RNCI was able to depict changes in our practice along the study period. The annual PCI volume per million inhabitants remained stable, driven by an increase in primary PCI offset by a decrease in chronic coronary syndrome indications. The geographical asymmetries were markedly reduced due to the expansion on PCI capable centers, enabling a progress towards a more universal access to percutaneous coronary techniques.

Treatment of radial artery occlusion after transradial coronary catheterization: a review of the literature and proposed treatment algorithm

The transradial artery has been established as the default access site for most coronary catheterization procedures with fewer access-related and bleeding complications, rapid hemostasis, early ambulation of the patient, and reduction in all-cause mortality compared with transfemoral access. However, radial artery occlusion (RAO) remains the most frequent complication of coronary catheterization procedures performed via transradial artery access. The purpose of our review was to conduct detailed literature research and summarize all the available treatment strategies for RAO, given the lack of a standardized treatment protocol in the literature. Pharmacological treatment with low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) or other anticoagulants, invasive strategies, and pharmaco-invasive methods available in the literature were included in our review. Data were derived from case series, case reports, clinical trials, and observational studies. Eight studies regarding pharmacological treatment with LMWH or any other anticoagulant and seven studies of invasive treatment were included in our review. There were only two randomized studies: one with LMWH (tinzaparin) and one with apixaban. Furthermore, taking into consideration data derived from the above-mentioned studies, a treatment algorithm for RAO was proposed. RAO remains the most frequent complication of coronary procedures with transradial access. Application of preventive strategies and comprehensive knowledge of the risk factors remain the key factors for the reduction of the incidence of this clinical entity. Therapeutic options include anticoagulation regimens and interventional techniques through the distal radial artery. Large, randomized, multicenter studies should be conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the available treatment methods and define a standardized treatment protocol for RAO.

The Clinical Significance of PCI-Related Myocardial Infarction in Stable Ischaemic Heart Disease Patients in the Era of hs-Troponin

BACKGROUND & AIM

The definition and clinical relevance of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-related myocardial infarction (MI) has been a topic of significant debate and controversy. It has particularly garnered widespread attention recently due to a contemporary trend of including it as a component of primary end points in major trials. The study aimed to assess the clinical relevance of PCI-related MI (PMI) according to the Fourth Universal Definition of MI using a high-sensitivity troponin (hs-Tn) assay in a real-world setting.

METHODS

This was a single centre, retrospective registry analysis of consecutive patients who underwent elective PCI for stable ischaemic heart disease between January 2014 to December 2018. The primary end point was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs)-the composite of death, spontaneous MI, stent thrombosis and the need for repeat revascularisation within 12 months from the index procedure.

RESULTS

We treated 858 patients with a mean age of 67.6 years and 78.3% were men. The incidence of PMI in our cohort was 12.8%. On univariable analysis, contrast volume >150 mL, prior coronary artery bypass graft, final thrombolysis in MI flow 0-2, total stent length and stent length >20 mm were significantly associated with increased risk of PMI. There were 46 (5.4%) MACE in total with seven (6.4%) in the PMI group and 39 (5.2%) in the non-PMI group (p=0.6). Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to estimate 1-year MACE-free survival for the patients with PMI versus non-PMI and there was no significant difference. On multivariable Cox proportional hazards analysis, contrast volume >150 mL, prior coronary artery bypass graft and estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 (mL/min/1.73 m2) were independent predictors of MACE during 1-year follow-up, whereas PMI was not an independent predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

PMI defined according to the Fourth Universal Definition of MI and using hs-Tn was common, occurring in 12.8% of patients, but not independently predictive of MACE in 1 year. As PMIs are increasingly used as a component of composite primary end points in major, practice-changing trials, establishing a clinically relevant definition of PMI is of utmost importance.

Vascular access: Femoral, radial and large-bore alternative access

Vascular access for coronary, peripheral, and structural interventions has changed significantly over the past two decades. The evolving demand for both large-bore access for valvular interventions and mechanical support devices, and for safer access for coronary interventions, in patients with comorbidities have driven progress in these areas. This review will provide an overview of the techniques of arterial access in the femoral, forearm (radial and ulnar), and alternative (transcarotid, transaxillary, and transcaval) locations based on the latest evidence and experience.

Traditional Versus Distal Radial Access for Coronary Diagnostic and Revascularization Procedures: Final Results of the TENDERA Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Study

BACKGROUND

Traditional transradial access (TRA) is widely used for coronary and non-coronary interventions with significant improvements in procedural outcomes; however, it is associated with RAO that precludes repeat use of the same artery for possible future TRI and other purposes. Distal radial access (DRA) has been proposed as an effective alternative to decrease RAO rates. Published literature describing the RAO rate after DRA versus TRA from various RCT and clinical registries has shown conflicting results.

OBJECTIVES

This study compared the forearm radial artery occlusion (RAO) rate assessed by Doppler ultrasound between distal and conventional radial access at 1-year follow-up after the initial procedure.

METHODS

TENDERA was a multicenter, randomized controlled study comparing DRA versus TRA for coronary diagnostic and interventional procedures using 5 or 6F hydrophilic-coated sheaths. The primary endpoint was forearm RAO at 12 months after radial access. The secondary endpoints included puncture time, sheath insertion and total procedure time, radiation dose, and vascular access site-related complications.

RESULTS

Eight hundred and fifty patients were randomized to either TRA (n = 418) and DRA (n = 432) groups. In the intention-to-treat analysis, the rate of forearm RAO at 12 months was observed in 39 patients (4.6%) and was significantly reduced in the DRA group compared with the TRA group (2.5% vs. 6.7%, RR 2.59 [95% CI 1.29-5.59], p = 0.010). Analysis in per protocol population has shown consistent results with forearm RAO rate 2.8% in the DRA group versus 6.5% in the TRA group (p = 0.008). The crossover rate was higher (4.6% vs. 1%, p = 0.013) and median hemostasis time was shorter (156.5 min vs. 180 min, p < 0.001) with DRA. Overall bleeding (BARC 1-2) and postprocedure hematoma > 5 cm occurred less frequently in the DRA group compared with the TRA group (3.2% vs. 20.5%, p < 0.001% and 9.0% vs. 27.0%, p < 0.001, respectively). No significant differences were observed in total procedure time and radiation dose between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

DRA for coronary diagnostic and interventional procedures is associated with reduced forearm RAO rate and shorter hemostasis time, but a longer sheath insertion time and higher crossover rate compared with TRA.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04211584.

Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention during Off-Hours: One-Decade Experience from a High-Volume Cardiovascular Center

BACKGROUND

The impact of performing a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) off-hours on clinical outcomes is not well established.

OBJECTIVE

Compare characteristics and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) of pPCI off-hours versus on-hours in a high-volume cardiology center.

METHODS

Prospective cohort of patients who underwent pPCI for ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) from 2009 to 2019. We defined off-hours pPCI as workdays from 8pm to 7:59 am as well as weekends and holidays. We compared patients treated on- and off-hours as to baseline characteristics and 1-year events.

RESULTS

A total of 2,560 patients were treated off-hours and 1,876 patients treated on-hours. The groups were similar for most of the baseline characteristics. A higher thrombus burden was seen in patients treated off-hours (50% x 45%; p < 0.01), and in this group the radial access was more frequently used (62% x 58%; p = 0.01). Procedural success was not statistically different between the groups (95.7% x 96.4%; p = 0.21). MACE rates were higher in patients treated off-hours at 30 days (10.2% x 8.5%; p = 0.04) and at one year of follow-up (15.4% x 13.1%; p = 0.03), driven by higher death rates at 30 days (7.8% x 6.1%; p = 0.03) and at 1 year follow-up (11.1% x 9.0%; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

In a high-volume cardiology center, clinical characteristics, door-to-balloon times, procedural pPCI success and complication rates of STEMI patients treated on and off-hours were similar. However, patients treated off-hours presented higher MACE and mortality rates, in spite of similar MI and stroke rates.

Hemostatic effect of 3D-printed hip fixators in children with retinoblastoma after intra-arterial chemotherapy: a non-randomized controlled trial

This study aimed to investigate the benefits of using three-dimensional (3D)-printed hip joint fixators after intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) by inguinal femoral artery puncture in children with retinoblastoma. Overall, 79 cases of retinoblastoma who had undergone IAC through the femoral artery were selected and divided into an observation group of 50 cases and an intervention group of 29 cases according to the hemostasis method employed. The patients in the observation group were treated with sandbags for hemostasis, while those in the intervention group were given 3D-printed hip joint fixators to help immobilize the hips and sandbags. We used the Face, Legs, Activity, Cry and Consolability scale (FLACC), the Wong-Baker Facial Expression Pain Scale, and self-made questionnaires to evaluate demographics, clinical characteristics, pain, complications, satisfaction, and other indicators of the two groups. There were no significant differences in general data, such as age, gender, height, weight, manual compression time, diseased eye, tumor stage, platelet count, puncture times, pain distribution, and total score, between the groups. There was a positive correlation between FLACC pain and the total Wong-Baker pain score (r = 0.599, p < 0.001). During the 2 h of sandbag compression, sandbags were dislodged in the observation group as many as ten times, which was significantly higher than that in the intervention group (up to four times; p < 0.001). This was correlated with a very high score of satisfaction (92.34 ± 19.96 out of 100). The 3D-printed hip fixator is easy to operate, has a low incidence of complications, and saves time and effort. It effectively reduces the incidence of sandbags falling off after IAC in children with retinoblastoma and does not increase the patient's pain. It is a method that could improve hemostasis in young children undergoing IAC by inguinal femoral artery.

Bivalirudin versus heparin in ST and non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction-Outcomes at two years

BACKGROUND

The registry-based randomized VALIDATE-SWEDEHEART trial (NCT02311231) compared bivalirudin vs. heparin in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for myocardial infarction (MI). It showed no difference in the composite primary endpoint of death, MI, or major bleeding at 180 days. Here, we report outcomes at two years.

METHODS

Analysis of primary and secondary endpoints at two years of follow-up was prespecified in the study protocol. We report the study results for the extended follow-up time here.

RESULTS

In total, 6006 patients were enrolled, 3005 with ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI) and 3001 with Non-STEMI (NSTEMI), representing 70 % of all eligible patients with these diagnoses during the study. The primary endpoint occurred in 14.0 % (421 of 3004) in the bivalirudin group compared with 14.3 % (429 of 3002) in the heparin group (hazard ratio [HR] 0.97; 95 % confidence interval [CI], 0.85-1.11; P = 0.70) at one year and in 16.7 % (503 of 3004) compared with 17.1 % (514 of 3002), (HR 0.97; 95 % CI, 0.96-1.10; P = 0.66) at two years. The results were consistent in patients with STEMI and NSTEMI and across major subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Until the two-year follow-up, there were no differences in endpoints between patients with MI undergoing PCI and allocated to bivalirudin compared with those allocated to heparin.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov; Unique identifier: NCT02311231.

Feasibility and safety of left distal trans-radial approach for coronary angiogram and percutaneous coronary intervention in a center in Hong Kong

INTRODUCTION

The left distal trans-radial approach is not only more convenient for the operator than the conventional left forearm radial approach, it is also more comfortable for right-hand patients during the peri-procedural period. Comparing with conventional approach, it has lower bleeding risk, less pain and lower risk of radial artery occlusion. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility and the safety of left distal trans-radial approach for coronary angiogram and percutaneous coronary intervention in Hong Kong Chinese who had smaller body built and therefore smaller radial arterial size.

METHOD

In this single-center prospective study, 72 patients undergoing elective coronary angiography and/or percutaneous coronary intervention were recruited from August to October 2018. All right-handed patients aged 18 or above undergoing elective procedures during the period were recruited. Exclusion criteria were non-palpable radial arteries, pregnancies, incapability to consent, abnormal Allen's test, and emergency procedures. Sixty patients (42 males, age ranging from 45 to 86 years old) were recruited and underwent the procedures via left distal radial approach. The measurements during access establishment, the procedure details, complications, patients' satisfaction, and arterial occlusion rate were studied.

RESULTS

The procedures with left distal radial approach were successful in 51 patients (85%). Crossover rate to conventional right radial approach was 15% (nine patients). Among successful cases, the mean patients' satisfaction was 8.32/10 and the mean pain score was 1.6/10. Post-procedural radial artery occlusion was not encountered.

CONCLUSION

Left distal radial approach is a feasible alternative for patients undergoing coronary angiography and/or percutaneous coronary intervention in Hong Kong Chinese patients. It provides good comfortability with minimal pain in right-handed patients. The risk of radial artery occlusion is minimal.

Radial Artery Spasm-A Review on Incidence, Prevention and Treatment

Radial artery spasm (RAS) is a common complication associated with transradial access (TRA) for coronary interventions, particularly affecting elderly patients in whom radial access is preferred due to its benefits in reducing bleeding complications, improving clinical outcomes, and lowering long-term costs. This review examines the incidence, prevention, and treatment of RAS. Methods included an online search of PubMed and other databases in early 2024, analyzing meta-analyses, reviews, studies, and case reports. RAS is characterized by a sudden narrowing of the radial artery due to psychological and mechanical factors with incidence reports varying up to 51.3%. Key risk factors include patient characteristics like female sex, age, and small body size as well as procedural factors such as emergency procedures and the use of multiple catheters. Preventive measures include using distal radial access, hydrophilic sheaths, and appropriate catheter sizes. Treatments involve the intraarterial administration of nitroglycerine and verapamil as well as mechanical methods like balloon-assisted tracking. This review underscores the need for standardizing RAS definitions and emphasizes the importance of operator experience and patient management in reducing RAS incidence and improving procedural success.

Investigating optimal compression approach following radial artery puncture: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The method for compressing hemorrhagic sites after transradial access has been a topic of interest, yet definitive guidelines remain elusive. This study aims to address this gap by optimizing the mechanical compression hemostasis protocol after transradial access.

METHODS

This retrospective analysis included 300 patients from the Department of Cerebrovascular Diseases, Shanghai Fourth People's Hospital affiliated to Tongji University, who underwent transradial access for cerebrovascular angiography. Following the procedure, patients received radial artery compression hemostasis using a balloon compressor. They were divided into group A (n=100, continuous deflation) and group B (n=200, intermittent deflation) according to different hemostasis methods. The incidence of bleeding at the puncture site and complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

The rate of bleeding at the puncture site was significantly lower in group B (20 out of 200 patients) compared to group A (20 out of 100 patients) (P=0.032). Similarly, the incidence of puncture site complications, such as edema, congestion, and wound infection was lower in group B (5 out of 200 patients) compared to group A (10 out of 100 patients) (P=0.006).

CONCLUSION

Four hours of compression with intermittent deflation (group B) emerged as the optimal compression method after transradial access, demonstrating fewer complications at the patient's puncture site.

Complete vs Culprit-Only Revascularization in Older Patients With Myocardial Infarction and High Bleeding Risk: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Patients with high bleeding risk (HBR) have a poor prognosis, and it is not known if they may benefit from complete revascularization after myocardial infarction (MI).

Objective

To investigate the benefit of physiology-guided complete revascularization vs a culprit-only strategy in patients with HBR, MI, and multivessel disease.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a prespecified analysis of the Functional Assessment in Elderly MI Patients With Multivessel Disease (FIRE) randomized clinical trial data. FIRE was an investigator-initiated, open-label, multicenter trial. Patients 75 years or older with MI and multivessel disease were enrolled at 34 European centers from July 2019 through October 2021. Physiology treatment was performed either by angiography- or wire-based assessment. Patients were divided into HBR or non-HBR categories in accordance with the Academic Research Consortium HBR document.

Interventions

Patients were randomized to either physiology-guided complete revascularization or culprit-only strategy.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome comprised a composite of death, MI, stroke, or revascularization at 1 year. Secondary outcomes included a composite of cardiovascular death or MI and Bleeding Academic Research Consortium (BARC) types 3 to 5.

Results

Among 1445 patients (mean [SD] age, 81 [5] years; 917 male [63%]), 1025 (71%) met HBR criteria. Patients with HBR were at higher risk for the primary end point (hazard ratio [HR], 2.01; 95% CI, 1.47-2.76), cardiovascular death or MI (HR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.26-2.83), and BARC types 3 to 5 (HR, 3.28; 95% CI, 1.40-7.64). The primary end point was significantly reduced with physiology-guided complete revascularization as compared with culprit-only strategy in patients with HBR (HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.55-0.96). No indication of interaction was noted between revascularization strategy and HBR status for primary and secondary end points.

Conclusions and Relevance

HBR status is prevalent among older patients with MI, significantly increasing the likelihood of adverse events. Physiology-guided complete revascularization emerges as an effective strategy, in comparison with culprit-only revascularization, for mitigating ischemic adverse events, including cardiovascular death and MI.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03772743.

Cardiogenic Shock Prior to Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Outcomes and Predictors of Mortality (ANZACS-QI 73)

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a serious complication of acute myocardial infarction (MI) and is associated with significant mortality. We describe a contemporary, real-world cohort of patients with ST-elevation MI (STEMI) and CS, including 30-day mortality and clinically relevant predictors of mortality.

METHODS

All patients presenting with STEMI who were treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in New Zealand (2016 to 2020) were identified from the Aotearoa New Zealand All Cardiology Services Quality Improvement (ANZACS-QI) registry and stratified based on their Killip class on arrival to the cardiac catheterisation laboratory. Primary outcome was 30-day all-cause mortality. Multivariable analysis was used to identify predictors of mortality prior to PCI and to develop a mortality scoring system.

RESULTS

In total, 6,649 patients were identified, including 192 (2.9%) Killip IV (CS) patients. Thirty-day mortality was 47.5% in patients with CS, 14.6% in those with heart failure without shock, and 3% in those without heart failure. Independent predictors of 30-day mortality for patients with CS were: estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73m2 (relative risk [RR] 1.89, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.39-2.58), cardiac arrest (RR 1.54, 95% CI 1.15-2.06), diabetes (RR 1.31, 95% CI 1.01-1.70), female sex (RR 1.32, 95% CI 1.01-1.72), femoral arterial access (RR 1.42, 95% CI 1.06-1.90) and left main stem culprit (RR 2.16, 95% CI 1.65-2.84). A multivariable Shock score was developed which predicts 30-day mortality with good global discrimination (area under the curve 0.79, 95% CI 0.73-0.85).

CONCLUSION

In this national cohort, the 30-day mortality for STEMI patients presenting with CS treated with PCI remains high, at nearly 50%. The ANZACS-QI Shock score is a promising tool for mortality risk stratification prior to PCI but requires further validation.

A simple and easy technique to overcome anatomic challenges of transradial access in STEMI patients

BACKGROUND

Transradial access (TRA) is associated with fewer access-related complications, earlier discharge and lower mortality than transfemoral access (TFA), being the preferred route to perform primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PPCIs) in STEMI patients. However, the radial artery is smaller, more superficial and thinner than the femoral artery, which may make PPCIs difficult.

PURPOSE

This study describes a practical solution to overcome several of the anatomical difficulties during the TRA, demonstrating its outcomes during clinical practice.

METHODS

The authors reviewed the clinical records of 1510 STEMI patients who underwent PPCIs over seven years. Of these, 95 (6.3%) patients experienced problems in advancing a 6F guiding catheter and underwent to STR technique. This technique consists in the use of a longer 5Fr STR flush catheter, which can be used as a "child" type rapid exchange catheter inside the 6Fr guiding catheter, adopting a 5-in-6 Fr technique and creating a smooth distal tip transition of the 6Fr guiding catheter.

RESULTS

In 89/95 patients (93.7%), this new technique was successful. The majority of these patients were female (51; 53.7%) and the mean age was 67 ± 14.3 years. The mean reperfusion time since arrival at the catheterization laboratory with STR technique was 24.5 ± 9.9 min, being statistically shorter than when a crossover to TFA was used (29.3 ± 9.5 min; p < 0.017). PPCIs were successfully completed in all different coronary arteries, without complications related to the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

The STR technique is a simple and useful approach that allowed more successful passage of guiding catheters through difficult TRA, allowing a reduction of crossover to TFA in this study to 2.4 %, which translates into a shorter reperfusion time.

Transradial Versus Transfemoral Access for Bifurcation Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Using Second-Generation Drug-Eluting Stent

BACKGROUND

The benefits of transradial access (TRA) over transfemoral access (TFA) for bifurcation percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are uncertain because of the limited availability of device selection. This study aimed to compare the procedural differences and the in-hospital and long-term outcomes of TRA and TFA for bifurcation PCI using second-generation drug-eluting stents (DESs).

METHODS

Based on data from the Coronary Bifurcation Stenting Registry III, a retrospective registry of 2,648 patients undergoing bifurcation PCI with second-generation DES from 21 centers in South Korea, patients were categorized into the TRA group (n = 1,507) or the TFA group (n = 1,141). After propensity score matching (PSM), procedural differences, in-hospital outcomes, and device-oriented composite outcomes (DOCOs; a composite of cardiac death, target vessel-related myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization) were compared between the two groups (772 matched patients each group).

RESULTS

Despite well-balanced baseline clinical and lesion characteristics after PSM, the use of the two-stent strategy (14.2% vs. 23.7%, P = 0.001) and the incidence of in-hospital adverse outcomes, primarily driven by access site complications (2.2% vs. 4.4%, P = 0.015), were significantly lower in the TRA group than in the TFA group. At the 5-year follow-up, the incidence of DOCOs was similar between the groups (6.3% vs. 7.1%, P = 0.639).

CONCLUSION

The findings suggested that TRA may be safer than TFA for bifurcation PCI using second-generation DESs. Despite differences in treatment strategy, TRA was associated with similar long-term clinical outcomes as those of TFA. Therefore, TRA might be the preferred access for bifurcation PCI using second-generation DES.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03068494.

Impact of Access Site on Periprocedural Bleeding and Cerebral and Coronary Events in High-Bleeding-Risk Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Findings from the RIVA-PCI Trial

INTRODUCTION

The preference for using transradial access (TRA) over transfemoral access (TFA) in patients requiring percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is based on evidence suggesting that TRA is associated with less bleeding and fewer vascular complications, shorter hospital stays, improved quality of life, and a potential beneficial effect on mortality. We have limited study data comparing the two access routes in a patient population with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing PCI, who have a particular increased risk of bleeding, while AF itself is associated with an increased risk of thromboembolism.

METHODS

Using data from the RIVA-PCI registry, which includes patients with AF undergoing PCI, we analyzed a high-bleeding-risk (HBR) cohort. These patients were predominantly on oral anticoagulants (OAC) for AF, and the PCI was performed via radial or femoral access. Endpoints examined were in-hospital bleeding (BARC 2-5), cerebral events (TIA, hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke) and coronary events (stent thrombosis and myocardial infarction).

RESULTS

Out of 1636 patients, 854 (52.2%) underwent TFA, while 782 (47.8%) underwent the procedure via TRA, including nine patients with brachial artery puncture. The mean age was 75.5 years. Groups were similar in terms of age, sex distribution, AF type, cardiovascular history, risk factors, and comorbidities, except for a higher incidence of previous bypass surgeries, heart failure, hyperlipidemia, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) < 60 ml/min in the TFA group. No clinically relevant differences in antithrombotic therapy and combinations were present at the time of PCI. However, upon discharge, transradial PCI patients had a higher rate of triple therapy, while dual therapy was preferred after transfemoral procedures. Radial access was more frequently chosen for non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and unstable angina pectoris (UAP) cases (NSTEMI 26.6% vs. 17.0%, p < 0.0001; UAP 21.5% vs. 14.5%, p < 0.001), while femoral access was more common for elective PCI (60.3% vs. 44.1%, p < 0.0001). No differences were observed for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Both groups had similar rates of cerebral events (TFA 0.2% vs. TRA 0.3%, p = 0.93), but the TFA group had a higher incidence of bleeding (BARC 2-5) (4.2% vs. 1.5%, p < 0.01), mainly driven by BARC 3 bleeding (1.5% vs. 0.4%, p < 0.05). No significant differences were found for stent thrombosis and myocardial infarction (TFA 0.2% vs. TRA 0.3%, p = 0.93; TFA 0.4% vs. TRA 0.1%, p = 0.36).

CONCLUSIONS

In HBR patients with AF undergoing PCI for acute or chronic coronary syndrome, the use of TRA might be associated with a decrease in in-hospital bleeding, while not increasing the risk of embolic or ischemic events compared to femoral access. Further studies are required to confirm these preliminary findings.

A Randomized Comparison of Radial Artery Intimal Hyperplasia Following Distal Versus Proximal Transradial Access for Coronary Angiography: PRESERVE RADIAL

BACKGROUND

Distal transradial access (dTRA) is an alternative to conventional forearm transradial access (fTRA) for coronary angiography (CAG). Differences in healing of the radial artery (RA) in the forearm have not been evaluated between these 2 access strategies. We sought to compare the mean difference in forearm RA intimal-medial thickening (IMT) in patients randomized to dTRA versus fTRA.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this single-center randomized clinical trial, 64 patients undergoing nonemergent CAG were randomized (1:1) to dTRA versus fTRA. Ultra-high-resolution (55-MHz) vascular ultrasound of the forearm and distal RA was performed pre-CAG and at 90 days. The primary end point was the mean change in forearm RA IMT. Secondary end points included procedural characteristics, vascular injury, RA occlusion, and ipsilateral hand pain and function. Baseline demographics and clinical characteristics, mean forearm RA IMT, and procedural specifics were similar between the dTRA and fTRA cohorts. There was no difference in mean change in forearm RA IMT between the 2 cohorts (0.07 versus 0.07 mm; P=0.37). No RA occlusions or signs of major vascular injury were observed at 90 days. Ipsilateral hand pain and function (Borg pain scale score: 12 versus 11; P=0.24; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulders, and Hand scale score: 6 versus 8; P=0.46) were comparable.

CONCLUSIONS

Following CAG, dTRA was associated with no differences in mean change of forearm RA IMT, hand pain, and function versus fTRA for CAG. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate mechanisms and predictors of RA healing and identify effective strategies to preserving RA integrity for repeated procedures.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT04801901.

Open Radial Artery Study

Radial artery occlusion (RAO) has been the most common postprocedural complication of transradial artery access. The optimal method of prevention of RAO is still lacking. In our study, we aimed to evaluate the effect of patent hemostasis on early (24 hours) and late (2 weeks) RAO prevention. The Open Radial Artery Study was a single-arm, prospective, and multicenter study. The primary end points were early and late RAO at the vascular access site after transradial coronary procedures. Secondary end points were access site hematoma, pseudoaneurysm formation, arteriovenous fistula, and nerve injury. A total of 2,181 patients were analyzed (67% male, mean age 68 years). The mean interventional duration and hemostatic times were 75.6 ± 55.6 and 60 ± 5.6 minutes, respectively. Radial artery spasm occurred in 10% of patients (n = 218). Catheter kinking, radial artery rupture, or dissection were not observed during the procedure. RAO, hematoma, pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous fistula, or nerve damage was not observed in any of the patients in the early or late period. In patients who undergo coronary diagnostic or interventional procedures through transradial artery access, the patent hemostasis method seems a critical step in the prevention of early and late RAO.

Pretreatment With P2Y12 Inhibitors in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Insights From the Bern-PCI Registry

BACKGROUND

Evidence to support immediate P2Y12 inhibitor loading in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is limited.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to compare outcomes of STEMI patients receiving immediate or delayed P2Y12 inhibitor treatment.

METHODS

Using data from the prospective Bern-PCI registry between 2016 and 2020, we stratified STEMI patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention according to time periods with different institutional recommendations regarding P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment. In cohort 1 (October 2016-September 2018), immediate P2Y12 inhibitor treatment was recommended. In cohort 2 (October 2018-September 2020), P2Y12 inhibitor treatment was recommended after coronary anatomy was confirmed. The primary endpoint was a composite of major adverse cardiac or cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) defined as all-cause death, recurrent myocardial infarction, stroke, or definite stent thrombosis at 30 days. Sensitivity analysis included only patients in whom these recommendations were followed.

RESULTS

Cohort 1 included 1,116 patients; pretreatment was actually given in 708 (63.4%). Cohort 2 included 847 patients; pretreatment was withheld in 798 (94.2%). The mean age was 65 ± 13 years, and 24% were female. Baseline characteristics were well-balanced between groups. The median difference for P2Y12 loading to angiography was 52 minutes between cohort 1 and 2 and 100 minutes between patients receiving vs not receiving pretreatment. Rates of MACCEs were similar between cohort 1 and cohort 2 (10.1% vs 8.1%; adjusted HR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.65-1.28; P = 0.59) and between patients receiving vs not receiving pretreatment (7.1% vs 8.4%; adjusted HR: 1.17; 95% CI: 0.78-1.74; P = 0.45).

CONCLUSIONS

In this cohort study of patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention, P2Y12 inhibitor pretreatment was not associated with improved MACCEs.

Prognostic implication of hemoglobin reduction with and without clinical bleeding after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute coronary syndromes

BACKGROUND

Bleeding events are associated with higher mortality rates in patients with cardiovascular diseases, including patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing coronary revascularization. We aimed to determine whether a reduction in hemoglobin (Hgb) from pre- to postpercutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), with or without evidence of clinical bleeding, is a correlate of in-hospital mortality for patients presenting with ACS who underwent primary PCI.

METHODS

We divided 33816 consecutive patients with ACS who underwent PCI into three categories: (1) target group (defined as Hgb reduction without overt bleeding [n = 112]); (2) Hgb reduction with overt bleeding (n = 48); and (3) control group (defined as no Hgb reduction and no overt bleeding [n = 3156]). Hgb reduction was defined as a drop of >3 g/dL in Hgb value from preprocedure and postprocedure during the index hospitalization. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. We used logistic regression to examine the relationship between Hgb reduction with and without bleeding and in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

In crude analysis, the Hgb reduction with overt bleed group had a higher in-hospital mortality rate (16.7%) than the target (9.8%) and control groups (0.6%). Adjusted logistic regression estimates a 0.393 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.137, 1.869) odds ratio for in-hospital death of the target group over the Hgb reduction with bleed group, and a 54.517 (95% CI: 2.07, >1000) odds ratio of the target group over the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients presenting with ACS undergoing PCI, Hgb reduction with and without overt bleeding were both independently associated with in-hospital mortality.

Coronary calcification in patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes: insights from the MATRIX trial

AIMS

The role of coronary calcification on clinical outcomes among different revascularization strategies in patients presenting with acute coronary syndromes (ACSs) has been rarely investigated. The aim of this investigation is to evaluate the role of coronary calcification, detected by coronary angiography, in the whole spectrum of patients presenting with acute ACS.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The present study was a post hoc analysis of the MATRIX programme. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as the composite of all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction (MI), or stroke up to 365 days. Among the 8404 patients randomized in the MATRIX trial, data about coronary calcification were available in 7446 (88.6%) and therefore were included in this post hoc analysis. Overall, 875 patients (11.7%) presented with severe coronary calcification, while 6571 patients (88.3%) did not present severe coronary calcification on coronary angiography. Fewer patients with severe coronary calcification underwent percutaneous coronary intervention whereas coronary artery bypass grafting or medical therapy-only was more frequent compared with patients without severe calcification. At 1-year follow-up, MACE occurred in 237 (27.1%) patients with severe calcified coronary lesions and 985 (15%) patients without severe coronary calcified lesions [hazard ratio (HR) 1.91; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.66-2.20, P < 0.001]. All-cause mortality was 8.6% in patients presenting with and 3.7% in those without severe coronary calcification (HR 2.38, 1.84-3.09, P < 0.001). Patients with severe coronary calcification incurred higher rate of MI (20.1% vs. 11.5%, HR 1.81; 95% CI 1.53-2.1, P < 0.001) and similar rate of stroke (0.8% vs. 0.6%, HR 1.35; 95% CI 0.61-3.02, P = 0.46).

CONCLUSION

Patients with ACS and severe coronary calcification, as compared to those without, are associated with worse clinical outcomes irrespective of the management strategy.

Chinese expert consensus on transradial access in percutaneous peripheral interventions

Transradial access (TRA) is a safe and comfortable approach and the preferred access for percutaneous coronary intervention. However, TRA is not widely used for peripheral interventions. Currently, there is a lack of data on patient selection, appropriate medical devices, complication prevention, and TRA adoption. Therefore, the Chinese Society of Interventional Oncology of the China Anti-Cancer Association organized nationwide experts to establish a Working Group of China Expert Consensus on TRA in percutaneous peripheral interventions in 2022, and jointly formulated this consensus to better promote the application of TRA in peripheral interventions to guide clinicians on patient selection, technical recommendations, and physician training. This consensus mainly focuses on the current situation, advantages and limitations of TRA in peripheral interventions, anatomical characteristics of the radial artery, patient selection, technical aspects, prevention and management of complications, radiation dose, and learning curve. A consensus was reached through a literature evaluation and by referring to the opinions of the expert group.

Complex high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention types, trends, and outcomes according to vascular access site

BACKGROUND

Radial access is associated with improved outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI); however, its role in complex, high-risk percutaneous coronary intervention (CHiP) remains poorly studied.

METHODS

We studied retrospectively all registered patients's records from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society dataset and compared the baseline characteristics, trends and outcomes of CHiP procedures performed electively between January 2006 and December 2017 according to the access site.

RESULTS

Out of 137,785 CHiP procedures, 61,825 (44.9%) were undertaken via transradial access (TRA). TRA use increased over time (14.6% in 2006 to 67% in 2017). The TRA patients were older, with a greater prevalence of previous stroke, hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, and smokers. TRA was used more frequently in most CHiP procedures (elderly (51.6%), chronic renal failure (52.6%), poor left ventricular (LV) function (47.6%), left main PCI (48.0%), treatment for severe vascular calcification (50.3%); although transfemoral access (TFA) was used more commonly in those with prior history of coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and PCI to a chronic total occlusion and LV support patients. Following adjustment for differences in clinical and procedural characteristics, TFA was independently associated with higher odds for mortality [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.3 (1.1-1.7)], major bleeding [aOR: 2.9 (2.3-3.4)], and MACCE (following propensity score matching) [aOR: 1.2 (1.1-1.4)]. The same was found with multiple accesses: mortality [aOR: 2.1 (1.5-2.8)], major bleeding [aOR: 5.5 (4.3-6.9)], and MACCE [aOR: 1.4 (1.2-1.7)].

CONCLUSION

TRA has become the predominant access site for CHiP procedures and is associated with significantly lower mortality, major bleeding and MACCE odds than TFA.

Safety of routine protamine in the reversal of heparin in percutaneous coronary intervention: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To determine the safety and efficacy of protamine in the reversal of heparin in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

BACKGROUND

Heparin is routinely used for anticoagulation in PCI. Protamine is not used routinely to reverse heparin's effects in PCI, partly due to the perceived risk of stent thrombosis.

METHODS

Relevant studies published in English were searched for in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases from inception to April 26th, 2023. Our primary outcome of interest was stent thrombosis in patients receiving PCI for all indications. Secondary outcomes included mortality, major bleeding complications, and hospitalization length. Dichotomous outcomes were analyzed using a Mantel-Haenszel random-effects model and expressed as odds ratios (OR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI), while continuous outcomes were analyzed using an inverse variance random-effects model expressed as mean differences (MD) with their 95% CI.

RESULTS

11 studies were included in our analysis. Protamine use was not associated with stent thrombosis: OR 0.58, 95% CI: 0.33, 1.01 (p = 0.05) nor with mortality (p = 0.89). Protamine administration was associated with a decreased incidence of major bleeding complications: OR 0.48; 95% CI: 0.25, 0.95 (p = 0.03) and decreased length of hospitalization (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients pre-treated with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT), protamine may be a safe and efficacious option to facilitate earlier sheath removal, reduce major bleeding complications, and reduce length of hospitalization without increased risk of stent thrombosis.

Implementation of the ESC STEMI guidelines in female and elderly patients over a 20-year period in a large German registry

AIMS

We investigated the implementation of new guidelines in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients in a large real-world patient population in the metropolitan area of Berlin (Germany) over a 20-year period.

METHODS

From January 2000 to December 2019, a total of 25 792 patients were admitted with STEMI to one of the 34 member hospitals of the Berlin-Brandenburg Myocardial Infarction Registry (B2HIR) and were stratified for sex and age < 75 and ≥ 75 years.

RESULTS

The median age of women was 72 years (IQR 61-81) compared to 61 years in men (IQR 51-71). PCI treatment as a standard of care was implemented in men earlier than in women across all age groups. It took two years from the 2017 class IA ESC STEMI guideline recommendation to prefer the radial access route rather than femoral until > 60% of patients were treated accordingly. In 2019, less than 60% of elderly women were treated via a radial access. While the majority of patients < 75 years already received ticagrelor or prasugrel as antiplatelet agent in the year of the class IA ESC STEMI guideline recommendation in 2012, men ≥ 75 years lagged two years and women ≥ 75 three years behind. Amongst the elderly, in-hospital mortality was 22.6% (737) for women and 17.3% (523) for men (p < 0.001). In patients < 75 years fatal outcome was less likely with 7.2% (305) in women and 5.8% (833) in men (p < 0.001). After adjustment for confounding variables, female sex was an independent predictor of in-hospital mortality in patients ≥ 75 years (OR 1.37, 95% CI 1.12-1.68, p = 0.002), but not in patients < 75 years (p = 0.076).

CONCLUSION

In-hospital mortality differs considerably by age and sex and remains highest in elderly patients and in particular in elderly females. In these patient groups, guideline recommended therapies were implemented with a significant delay.

Predictors of radial to femoral artery crossover during primary percutaneous coronary intervention in ST-elevation myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In contrast to traditional femoral artery access, radial artery access for primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is associated with reduced mortality and bleeding but has higher crossover rates. Therefore, factors associated with crossover warrant exploration as crossover due to technical challenges associated with the radial route may be mitigated.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to identify predictors of radial access failure or crossover to femoral access in PPCI.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was undertaken according to the Joanna Briggs Institute Systematic Reviews Checklist with searches conducted in Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, and SCOPUS databases. Inclusion criteria for this study included patients with STEMI; PPCI; and primary research identifying predictors of radial access failures and/or crossovers, published in English, and after 2010. This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020167122). Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows version 26.0 (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY) and RevMan version 5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration, London, United Kingdom) with meta-analysis conducted by using the DerSimonian and Laird random-effects method. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies was utilised for quality and risk of bias assessment, with EndNote software used for citations.

RESULTS

Eight observational studies met inclusion criteria, comprising 12,621 patients. Risk of bias of these studies was assessed using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Quality Assessment Tool for Observational Cohort and Cross-Sectional Studies. The mean age was 61.2 ± 12.0 years, and 75.3% were male. Crossover from transradial to transfemoral artery occurred in 529 (4.2%) patients. Reasons for radial access failure included failed puncture (35.3%), peripheral occlusion or tortuosity (24.5%), and radial artery spasm (20.1%). Predictors of crossover included older age (odds ratio [OR], 1.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.44-2.65; p < 0.001), female sex (OR, 2.10; 95% Cl, 1.58-2.80; p < 0.001), weight ≤65 kg (OR, 2.95; 95% CI, 1.95-4.46; p < 0.001), and previous percutaneous coronary intervention (OR, 2.80; 95% Cl, 1.74-4.52; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Older age, female sex, weight ≤65 kg, and previous percutaneous coronary intervention were predictors of crossover or failure from the radial to femoral artery. As these predictors are known to be associated with high bleeding and mortality, they should not preclude attempting a radial-first approach in all patients with STEMI. However, as these results were unadjusted, this study warrants further research to thoroughly investigate predictors of radial artery crossover.

Stroke risk in radial versus femoral approach in coronary intervention: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

Peri-cardiac catheterization (CC) stroke is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Little is known about any potential difference in stroke risk between transradial (TR) and transfemoral (TF) approaches. We explored this question through a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PubMed were searched from 1980 to June 2022. Randomized trials and observational studies comparing radial versus femoral access CC or intervention that reported stroke events were included. A random-effects model was used for analysis.

RESULTS

The total population in our 41 pooled studies comprised 1 112 136 patients - average age 65 years, women averaging 27% in TR and 31% in TF approaches. Primary analysis of 18 randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) that included a total of 45 844 patients showed that there was no statistical significance in stroke outcomes between the TR approach and the TF approach [odds ratio (OR) 0.71, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48-1.06, P -value = 0.013, I2 = 47.7%]. Furthermore, meta-regression analysis of RCTs including procedural duration between those two access sites showed no significance in stroke outcomes (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.86-1.34, P -value = 0.921, I2 = 0.0%).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in stroke outcomes between the TR approach and the TF approach.

Validation of a Contemporary Acute Kidney Injury Risk Score in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome

BACKGROUND

A simple, contemporary risk score for the prediction of contrast-associated acute kidney injury (CA-AKI) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was recently updated, although its external validation is lacking.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to validate the updated CA-AKI risk score in a large cohort of acute coronary syndrome patients from the MATRIX (Minimizing Adverse Haemorrhagic Events by Transradial Access Site and Systemic Implementation of angioX) trial.

METHODS

The risk score identifies 4 risk categories for CA-AKI. The primary endpoint was to appraise the receiver-operating characteristics of an 8-component and a 12-component CA-AKI model. Independent predictors of Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes-based acute kidney injury and the impact of CA-AKI on 1-year mortality and bleeding were also investigated.

RESULTS

The MATRIX trial included 8,201 patients with complete creatinine values and no end-stage renal disease. CA-AKI occurred in 5.5% of the patients, with a stepwise increase of CA-AKI rates from the lowest to the highest of the 4 risk categories. The receiver-operating characteristic area under the curve was 0.67 (95% CI: 0.64-0.70) with model 1 and 0.71 (95% CI: 0.68-0.74) with model 2. CA-AKI risk was systematically overestimated with both models (Hosmer-Lemeshow goodness-of-fit test: P < 0.05). The 1-year risks of all-cause mortality and bleeding were higher in CA-AKI patients (HR: 7.03 [95% CI: 5.47-9.05] and HR: 3.20 [95% CI: 2.56-3.99]; respectively). There was a gradual risk increase for mortality and bleeding as a function of the CA-AKI risk category for both models.

CONCLUSIONS

The updated CA-AKI risk score identifies patients at incremental risks of acute kidney injury, bleeding, and mortality. (Minimizing Adverse Haemorrhagic Events by Transradial Access Site and Systemic Implementation of angioX [MATRIX]; NCT01433627).

Alternative (Transulnar or Distal Radial) Arterial Access for Chronic Total Occlusion Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (Subanalysis from the Minimalistic Hybrid Approach Algorithm Registry)

The transradial approach (TRA) has become the primary choice for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI); however, it may not be always feasible because of clinical and/or technical challenges. Alternative forearm accesses, such as transulnar approach (TUA) and distal radial approach (dTRA) may allow maintaining a wrist approach for the procedure, avoiding the femoral artery. This issue is particularly relevant in patients who underwent multiple revascularizations, such as those with chronic total occlusion (CTO) lesions. This study aimed to evaluate whether the use of TUA and/or dTRA is comparable with TRA in CTO PCI using a minimalistic hybrid approach algorithm, which limits the number of accesses used to minimize vascular access complications. Patients with CTO PCI treated solely through a fully alternative approach (TUA and/or dTRA) were compared with those treated solely through a standard TRA approach. The primary efficacy end point was procedural success, whereas the primary safety end point was the composite of major adverse cardiac and cerebral events and vascular complications. Of 201 CTO PCIs attempted, 154 procedures were considered for analysis (standard, n = 104, alternative, n = 50). Alternative and standard groups demonstrated comparable rates of both procedural success (92% vs 94.2%, p = 0.70) and primary safety end point (4.8% vs 6.0%, p = 0.70). Of interest, 7 French guiding catheters were more frequently used in the alternative group (44% vs 26%, p = 0.028). In conclusion, CTO PCI after minimalistic hybrid approach by way of alternative forearm vascular accesses (dTRA and/or TUA) is feasible and safe to perform, compared with CTO PCI by way of standard TRA.

Vascular Access in Percutaneous Coronary Intervention of Chronic Total Occlusions: A State-of-the-Art Review

The outcomes of chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention have considerably improved during the last decade with continued emphasis on improving procedural safety. Vascular access site bleeding remains one of the most frequent complications. Several procedural strategies have been implemented to reduce the rate of vascular access site complications. This state-of-the-art review summarizes and describes the current evidence on optimal vascular access strategies for chronic total occlusion percutaneous coronary intervention.

Alirocumab effect on preventing periprocedural ischaemic events in coronary heart disease patients undergoing coronary stenting (APPEASE trial): study protocol of a multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-related myocardial infarction (type 4a MI) and major periprocedural myocardial injury have been demonstrated leading to poor prognosis of patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) undergoing elective PCI and still remain high occurrence even after the therapy of dual antiplatelet agents and statins. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitor alirocumab has been shown to be effectively in reducing the risk of acute MI (AMI). However, the effect of alirocumab on preventing PCI-related MI or major periprocedural myocardial injury in patients with CHD undergoing elective PCI remains uncertain.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Alirocumab effect on Preventing Periprocedural ischaemic Events in coronary heart diseAse patients undergoing coronary StEnting trial is a multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial aiming to determine whether alirocumab could reduce the incidence of type 4a MI or major periprocedural myocardial injury in patients with CHD undergoing elective PCI. In total, 422 non-AMI CHD patients planned to undergo elective PCI will be randomly assigned to receive standard pharmacotherapy of CHD (control group) or additional use of subcutaneous alirocumab 75 mg 1 day before procedure (alirocumab group). The primary outcome is type 4a MI or major periprocedural myocardial injury defined as high-sensitivity cardiac troponin elevating above 5×99 th percentile upper reference limit in 48 hours after PCI. Patients will continue receiving standard pharmacotherapy or additional biweekly subcutaneous alirocumab 75 mg for 3 months according to the initial randomisation group. We will follow up for 3 months and record all the major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Incidence of PCI-related MI or major periprocedural myocardial injury, and MACE in 3 months after PCI will be compared between control group and alirocumab group.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval has been obtained from the Medical Ethics Committee of the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University with approval number: (2022)02-140-01. The results of this study will be reported through peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR2200063191.

A Randomized Comparison of Radial Artery Intimal Hyperplasia Following Distal vs. Proximal Transradial Access for Coronary Angiography: PRESERVE RADIAL Trial

Background

Distal transradial access (dTRA) is an alternative to conventional forearm transradial access (fTRA) for coronary angiography (CAG). Differences in healing of the radial artery in the forearm (FRA) have not been evaluated between these 2 access strategies. We sought to compare FRA intimal-medial thickening (IMT) in patients randomized to dTRA vs. fTRA for CAG.

Methods and Results

Sixty-four consecutive patients undergoing non-emergent CAG were randomized (1:1) to dTRA vs. fTRA. Ultrahigh resolution (55 MHz) vascular ultrasound) of the FRA and distal RA was performed pre-CAG and at 90 days. Primary endpoint was 90-day FRA IMT. Secondary endpoints included procedural characteristics, vascular injury, RA occlusion and ipsilateral hand pain and function. Baseline demographics and clinical characteristics, mean FRA IMT, time to RA access, procedure time, and radiation exposure were similar between the dTRA and fTRA cohorts. There were no between group differences in 90-day FRA IMT (0.37 mm vs 0.38 mm, respectively; p =0.73). No RA occlusions or signs of major vascular injury were observed at 90 days. Ipsilateral hand pain and function (Borg pain scale:12 vs 11, p =0.24; DASH scores: 6 vs 8, p =0.46) were comparable.

Conclusions

In this single center randomized clinical trial, similar patterns of FRA vascular healing at 90 days, procedural results as well as hand pain and function were observed following dTRA vs. fTRA for CAG. Further investigation is warranted to better understand the mechanistics and predictors of RA healing and to identify strategies aimed at preserving RA integrity for future procedures.

What is New?

DTRA has been proposed as an alternative to traditional fTRA in the wrist for CAG and PCI because of ergonomic and post-procedural recovery benefits to the patient, as well as potential reductions in occlusion of the FRA.There are gaps in knowledge, however, regarding potential differences in remodeling of the FRA in patients undergoing dTRA versus fTRA.In this randomized clinical trial, there were no differences in IMT and patterns of vascular injury and healing, using ultrahigh resolution (55 MHz) ultrasound, at 90 days in patients randomized to dTRA or FTRA for elective and non-emergent CAG and PCI.

What Are the Clinical Implications

Our findings highlight the need for further inquiry through large multicenter randomized clinical trials to better the understand the mechanistics and predictors of IMT and to identify strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of vessel remodeling in patients undergoing TRA across the entire severity spectrum of cardiovascular disease.

Outcomes and Institutional Variation in Arterial Access Among Patients With AMI and Cardiogenic Shock Undergoing PCI

BACKGROUND

Contemporary data comparing the outcomes of transradial access (TRA) vs transfemoral access (TFA) among patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock (AMI-CS) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are limited.

OBJECTIVES

This study examines in-hospital outcomes and institutional variation among patients with AMI-CS undergoing TRA-PCI vs TFA-PCI.

METHODS

Patients admitted with AMI-CS from the NCDR CathPCI registry between April 2018 and June 2021 were included. Multivariable logistic regression and inverse probability weighting models were used to assess the association between access site and in-hospital outcomes. A falsification analysis using non-access site-related bleeding was performed.

RESULTS

Among 35,944 patients with AMI-CS undergoing PCI, 25.6% were performed with TRA. The proportion of TRA-PCI increased over the study period (22.0% in the second quarter of 2018 vs 29.1% in the second quarter of 2021; P-trend <0.001). Significant institutional-level variability in the use of TRA-PCI was also observed: 20.9% of all sites using TRA in <2% of PCIs (low utilization) vs 1.9% of all sites using TRA in >80% of PCIs (high utilization). Patients undergoing TRA-PCI had a significantly lower adjusted incidence of major bleeding (odds ratio [OR]: 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.67-0.76), mortality (OR: 0.73; 95% CI: 0.69-0.78), vascular complications (OR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.54-0.84), and new dialysis (OR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.77-0.97). There was no difference in non-access site related bleeding (OR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.84-1.03). Sensitivity analyses revealed similar benefit with TRA-PCI among patients without arterial cross-over. There were no significant interactions observed between TRA-PCI with mechanical circulatory support and in-hospital outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large nationwide contemporary analysis of patients with AMI-CS, about quarter of PCIs were performed via TRA with wide variability across US institutions. TRA-PCI was associated with significantly lower incidence of in-hospital major bleeding, mortality, vascular complications, and new dialysis. This benefit was observed irrespective of mechanical circulatory support use.

Comparison of the feasibility and safety between distal transradial access and conventional transradial access in patients with acute chest pain: a single-center cohort study using propensity score matching

BACKGROUND

Distal transradial access (dTRA) has been suggested to have great advantages over cTRA. However, there is a lack of preliminary data on dTRA in patients undergoing emergency coronary angiography (CAG) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). To explore the feasibility and safety of distal transradial access in patients with acute chest pain.

METHODS

A total of 1269 patients complaining of acute chest pain in our emergency department from January 2020 to February 2022 were retrospectively included. The patients who met the inclusion criteria were divided into the conventional transradial access (cTRA) group (n = 238) and the dTRA group (n = 158). Propensity score matching was used to minimize the baseline differences.

RESULTS

The cannulation success rate in the dTRA group was significantly lower than that in the cTRA group (87.41% vs. 94.81%, p < 0.05). No significant differences in the puncture time and total procedure time were noted between the two groups (p > 0.05). Compared with the cTRA group, the hemostasis duration was significantly shorter [4(4, 4) h vs. 10(8, 10) h, p < 0.001) and the incidence of minor bleeding (BARC Type I and II) was significantly lower in the dTRA group than that in the cTRA group (0.85% vs. 5.48%, p = 0.045). Asymptomatic radial artery occlusion was observed in six patients (5.83%) in the cTRA group and one patient (1.14%) in the dTRA group (p = 0.126). The subgroup analysis of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) showed no significant differences in the puncture time, D-to-B time or total procedure time between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The dTRA for emergency CAG or PCI has an acceptable success rate and puncture time, a shorter hemostasis time, and a downward trend in RAO rate compared to the cTRA. The dTRA did not increase the D-to-B time in emergency coronary interventions in STEMI patients. On the contrary, a low incidence of RAO by the dTRA created an opportunity for future coronary interventions in non-culprit vessels in the same access.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Retrospectively registered in Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (registry number: ChiCTR2200061104, date of registration: June 15, 2022).

Impact of transradial versus transfemoral access for preprocedural coronary angiography on TAVR-associated complications

Background

Vascular injury and bleeding complications remain frequent after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Whether the access-site of preprocedural coronary angiography (CAG) affects TAVR-related complications is not known. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of transradial (TRA) versus transfemoral access (TFA) for preprocedural CAG on outcomes in patients undergoing subsequent TAVR.

Methods

The study cohort included 1002 patients undergoing transfemoral TAVR, of whom 39.4% (395/1002) had undergone radial and 60.6% (607/1002) femoral access for pre-TAVR CAG. The primary endpoint was a composite of 30-day mortality and major vascular complications after TAVR. Key secondary endpoints included VARC-3-defined complications.

Results

The primary endpoint occurred less frequently in patients with prior TRA (3.3%) as compared to patients with prior TFA (6.3%, p = 0.04), which was mainly driven by significantly lower rates of major vascular complications (0.8% vs 2.5%, p = 0.05). Moreover, incidences of periprocedural access-related vascular injury and unplanned endovascular interventions were lower in TRA patients (13.2% vs 18.0%, p = 0.05). The rate of major bleeding tended to be lower in the TRA (1.5%) as compared to the TFA group (3.5%) but was not significantly different (p = 0.07). Moreover, the rate of life-threatening bleeding was comparable between both groups (0.5% vs 0.8%, p = 0.71).

Conclusion

Transradial access for preprocedural CAG was associated with significantly lower rates of vascular complications following subsequent TAVR as compared to transfemoral access. However, despite the tendency to lower major bleedings with transradial access, no significant association was detectable between the access-site of coronary angiography and TAVR-related bleeding complications.

Acute coronary syndrome management in hemophiliacs: How to maintain balance?: A review

To analyze existing literature and understand how to balance the minimization of bleeding risk and ensuring adequate anticoagulation during coronary intervention treatment and long-term postoperative anticoagulation in hemophilia patients during the perioperative period, in order to provide guidance for healthcare professionals in developing effective treatment plans. This narrative review will analyze existing studies, case reports, and clinical guidelines to determine the most effective strategies for managing acute coronary syndrome in hemophilia patients. When evaluating the literature, factors such as patient age, medical history, and severity of the condition will be considered. The current management guidelines for acute coronary syndrome in hemophilia patients are not based on systematic evaluation and mainly rely on expert opinions. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of existing literature and recommends coagulation factor replacement therapy before anticoagulation and intervention treatment, as well as personalized anticoagulation treatment during the postoperative period for better management of hemophilia patients with acute coronary syndrome. These recommendations can help healthcare professionals develop more effective treatment plans for hemophilia patients.

Use of the Sheathless Eaucath Is an Effective Strategy to Overcome Resistant Severe Radial Spasm

Objectives

We aimed to assess the effectiveness of the sheathless Eaucath guiding catheter (SEGC) in overcoming severe spasm.

Background

Radial spasm is a frequent challenge in transradial access (TRA) and can be difficult to manage.

Methods

We performed a prospective observational study of 1000 consecutive patients undergoing coronary angiography with or without percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients with primary transfemoral access (TFA) or primary use of a sheathless guide catheter were excluded. Patients who developed angiographically confirmed severe spasm were treated with further sedation and vasodilators. If the conventional catheter would still not advance, it was exchanged for a SEGC. The primary endpoint was the successful passage of the SEGC through the radial with successful engagement of the coronary artery in patients with resistant severe spasm.

Results

Primary TFA access was used in 58 (5.8%) and primary radial access with a SEGC in 44 (4.4%) patients. Of the remaining 898 patients, 888 (98.9%) had a radial sheath successfully inserted. Of these, 49 (5.5%) developed severe radial spasm with inability to advance the catheter. Following treatment with additional sedation and vasodilators, the severe spasm resolved in 5 (10.2%) patients. Passage of a SEGC was attempted in the remaining 44 patients with resistant severe spasm. Passage of the SEGC and engagement of coronary arteries were successful in all cases. There were no complications related to use of the SEGC.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that use of the SEGC for resistant severe spasm is highly effective, safe, and may reduce the need for conversion to TFA.

Assessment of In-Hospital Mortality and Its Risk Factors in Patients with Myocardial Infarction Considering the Logistical Aspects of the Treatment Process-A Single-Center, Retrospective, Observational Study

Technological progress, such as the launching of a new generation of drug-coated stents as well as new antiplatelet drugs, has resulted in the treatment of myocardial infarction (MI) becoming much more effective. The aim of this study was to assess in-hospital mortality and to conduct an assessment of risk factors relevant to the in-hospital death of patients with MI. This study was based on an observational hospital registry of patients with MI (ACS GRU registry). For the purpose of the statistical analysis of the risk factors of death, a univariate logistic regression model was applied. In-hospital general mortality amounted to 7.27%. A higher death risk was confirmed in the following cases: (1) serious adverse events (SAEs) that occurred during the procedure; (2) patients transferred from another department of a hospital (OR = 2.647, p = 0.0056); (3) primary percutaneous coronary angioplasty performed on weekdays between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. (OR = 2.540, p = 0.0146). The influence of workload and operator experience on the risk of death in a patient with MI has not been confirmed. The results of this study indicate the increasing importance of new risk factors for in-hospital death in patients with MI, such as selected logistical aspects of the MI treatment process and individual SAEs.

Combination Therapy With Nicardipine and Isosorbide Dinitrate to Prevent Spasm in Transradial Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (from the NISTRA Multicenter Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial)

Verapamil and nitroglycerin are widely used to prevent radial artery spasm (RAS) during percutaneous cardiovascular procedures. However, these agents are not typically available in most African countries and consequently, isosorbide dinitrate is often the only spasmolytic treatment. Our aim was to compare the efficacy of isosorbide dinitrate alone versus isosorbide dinitrate used together with nicardipine to prevent RAS during transradial coronary procedures. This was a randomized controlled double-blind multicenter trial. Patients (n = 1,523) were randomized to receive either a sole therapy of isosorbide dinitrate (n = 760) or the combination of isosorbide dinitrate and nicardipine (n = 763). Our primary end point was the occurrence of RAS; defined as considerable perceived hindrance of catheter advancement. Our secondary end points were severe RAS; defined as (1) severe arm pain, (2) the need for either morphine or midazolam treatment, and (3) necessity for crossover to the contralateral radial or femoral artery. RAS incidence was reduced with the combination therapy versus isosorbide dinitrate alone (15% vs 25%, p <0.001), with a number needed to treat of 10 patients. There was also a significant reduction in the incidence of the secondary end points with combination therapy (3.6% vs 8.2%, p <0.001), with a number needed to treat of 22 patients. This result was driven by reductions in both femoral crossover (0.5% vs 2.4%, p = 0.003) and the use of morphine or midazolam injections (1.6% vs 3.5%, p = 0.02) with combination therapy. In conclusion, we demonstrated the superiority of the combination therapy of isosorbide dinitrate and nicardipine over isosorbide dinitrate alone in reducing the incidence of RAS.

Transient vs In-Hospital Persistent Acute Kidney Injury in Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome

BACKGROUND

The occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI) among patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) undergoing invasive management is associated with worse outcomes. However, the prognostic implications of transient or in-hospital persistent AKI may differ.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic implications of transient or in-hospital persistent AKI in patients with ACS.

METHODS

In the MATRIX (Minimizing Adverse Haemorrhagic Events by Transradial Access Site and Systemic Implementation of Angiox) trial, 203 subjects were excluded because of incomplete information or end-stage renal disease, with a study population of 8,201 patients. Transient and persistent AKI were defined as renal dysfunction no longer or still fulfilling the AKI criteria (>0.5 mg/dL or a relative >25% increase in creatinine) at discharge, respectively. Thirty-day coprimary outcomes were the out-of-hospital composite of death, myocardial infarction, or stroke (major adverse cardiovascular events [MACE]) and net adverse cardiovascular events (NACE), defined as the composite of MACE or Bleeding Academic Research Consortium type 3 or 5 bleeding.

RESULTS

Persistent and transient AKI occurred in 750 (9.1%) and 587 (7.2%) subjects, respectively. After multivariable adjustment, compared with patients without AKI, the risk for 30-day coprimary outcomes was higher in patients with persistent AKI (MACE: adjusted HR: 2.32; 95% CI: 1.48-3.64; P < 0.001; NACE: adjusted HR: 2.29; 95% CI: 1.48-3.52; P < 0.001), driven mainly by all-cause mortality (adjusted HR: 3.43; 95% CI: 2.03-5.82; P < 0.001), whereas transient AKI was not associated with higher rates of MACE or NACE. Results remained consistent when implementing the KDIGO (Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes) criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with ACS undergoing invasive management, in-hospital persistent but not transient AKI was associated with higher risk for 30-day MACE and NACE. (Minimizing Adverse Haemorrhagic Events by Transradial Access Site and Systemic Implementation of Angiox [MATRIX]; NCT01433627).