Effect of thrombolytic therapy on the risk of cardiac rupture and mortality in older patients with first acute myocardial infarction†

Time course of cardiac rupture after acute myocardial infarction and comparison of clinical features of different rupture types

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the time course of cardiac rupture (CR) after acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and the differences among different rupture types.

Method

We retrospectively analyzed 145 patients with CR after AMI at Shanxi Cardiovascular Hospital from June 2016 to September 2022. Firstly, according to the time from onset of chest pain to CR, the patients were divided into early CR (≤24 h) (n = 61 patients) and late CR (>24 h) (n = 75 patients) to explore the difference between early CR and late CR. Secondly, according to the type of CR, the patients were divided into free wall rupture (FWR) (n = 55) and ventricular septal rupture (VSR) (n = 90) to explore the difference between FWR and VSR.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that high white blood cell count (OR = 1.134, 95% CI: 1.019-1.260, P = 0.021), low creatinine (OR = 0.991, 95% CI: 0.982-0.999, P = 0.026) were independently associated with early CR. In addition, rapid heart rate (OR = 1.035, 95% CI: 1.009-1.061, P = 0.009), low systolic blood pressure (OR = 0.981, 95% CI: 0.962-1.000, P = 0.048), and anterior myocardial infarction (OR = 5.989, 95% CI: 1.978-18.136, P = 0.002) were independently associated with VSR.

Conclusion

In patients with CR, high white blood cell count and low creatinine were independently associated with early CR, rapid heart rate, low systolic blood pressure, and anterior myocardial infarction were independently associated with VSR.

Characterization of myocardial injury phenotype by thermal liquid biopsy

Background and aims

With the advent and implementation of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays, differentiation of patients with distinct types of myocardial injuries, including acute thrombotic myocardial infarction (TMI), acute non-thrombotic myocardial injury (nTMi), and chronic coronary atherosclerotic disease (cCAD), is of pressing clinical importance. Thermal liquid biopsy (TLB) emerges as a valuable diagnostic tool, relying on identifying thermally induced conformational changes of biomolecules in blood plasma. While TLB has proven useful in detecting and monitoring several cancers and autoimmune diseases, its application in cardiovascular diseases remains unexplored. In this proof-of-concept study, we sought to determine and characterize TLB profiles in patients with TMI, nTMi, and cCAD at multiple acute-phase time points (T 0 h, T 2 h, T 4 h, T 24 h, T 48 h) as well as a follow-up time point (Tfu) when the patient was in a stable state.

Methods

TLB profiles were collected for 115 patients (60 with TMI, 35 with nTMi, and 20 with cCAD) who underwent coronary angiography at the event presentation and had subsequent follow-up. Medical history, physical, electrocardiographic, histological, biochemical, and angiographic data were gathered through medical records, standardized patient interviews, and core laboratory measurements.

Results

Distinctive signatures were noted in the median TLB profiles across the three patient types. TLB profiles for TMI and nTMi patients exhibited gradual changes from T0 to Tfu, with significant differences during the acute and quiescent phases. During the quiescent phase, all three patient types demonstrated similar TLB signatures. An unsupervised clustering analysis revealed a unique TLB signature for the patients with TMI. TLB metrics generated from specific features of TLB profiles were tested for differences between patient groups. The first moment temperature (TFM) metric distinguished all three groups at time of presentation (T0). In addition, 13 other TLB-derived metrics were shown to have distinct distributions between patients with TMI and those with cCAD.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated the use of TLB as a sensitive and data-rich technique to be explored in cardiovascular diseases, thus providing valuable insight into acute myocardial injury events.

Study of mechanical complications in patients with acute ST-segment elevated myocardial infarction

This prospective observational study aimed to determine the proportion of mechanical complications in patients with acute STEMI and assess the associated outcomes. The study was conducted between June'21 and May'22, including 1307 patients. Mechanical complications were evaluated using 2D-Echo. Among the STEMI patients, 17 individuals (1.3 %) experienced mechanical complications. The most prevalent complication was FWR (n = 9), followed by VSR(n = 7) and PMR (n = 1). However, despite their low incidence, mechanical complications carry a significant mortality burden. Mortality rates were higher in older age and female patients.

Phosphodiesterase-5a Knock-out Suppresses Inflammation by Down-Regulating Adhesion Molecules in Cardiac Rupture Following Myocardial Infarction

Cardiac rupture is a fatal complication of acute myocardial infarction (MI), associated with increased inflammation and damaged extracellular matrix. C57BL/6 J wild type (WT) and Pde5a knockout (Pde5a^-/-) mice were selected to establish MI model. The rupture rate of Pde5a^-/- mice was significantly reduced (P < 0.01) within 7 days post MI. The cardiac function of Pde5a^-/- mice was better than WT mice both at day 3 and 7 post MI. Immunohistochemical staining and flow cytometry showed neutrophils and macrophages were decreased in Pde5a^-/- mouse hearts. Inflammatory factors expression such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, Mcp-1, TNF-α significantly decreased in Pde5a^-/- mice post MI. Moreover, western blot showed the inhibition of inflammatory response was accompanied by down-regulation of intercellular adhesion molecule-1(ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1(VCAM-1) in Pde5a^-/- mice. Knockout of Pde5a reduced inflammatory cells infiltration by down-regulating the expression of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, and prevented early cardiac rupture after MI. All authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest. This article does not contain any studies with human participants performed by any of the authors. All applicable international, national, and institutional guidelines for the care and use of animals were followed.

Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) Risk Score Assessment for Complications in Acute Anterior Wall ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Introduction and objective Effective risk stratification is integral to the management of acute coronary syndromes. The Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) risk score for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is based on eight high-risk parameters that can be used at the bedside for risk stratification of patients presenting with STEMI. This study was designed to determine the frequency of cardiac complications of anterior wall STEMI assessed on TIMI risk score and to compare the rate of cardiac complications according to the TIMI score. Materials and methods An observational case series study was conducted in the Department of Cardiology at Sandeman Provincial Hospital in Quetta, Pakistan. The study duration was six months, from September 22, 2016 to March 23, 2017. A total of 369 patients were selected who had anterior wall myocardial infarction and received thrombolytic therapy, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The TIMI score was calculated by proforma at the time of admission. Patients were divided into three groups: low-risk, moderate-risk, and high-risk TIMI groups. The frequency of complications of anterior wall myocardial infarction at the time of discharge was compared among these groups. Results The study included 285 male patients (77.2%) and 84 (22.8%) female patients. A total of 174 (47.2%) patients were smokers, 79 (21.4%) were obese, and 93 (25.2%) had hyperlipidemia. Of the 369 patients, 205 (55.6%) were included in the low-risk group, 150 (40.7%) in the moderate-risk group, and 14 (3.8%) in the high-risk group. Post-myocardial infarction arrhythmias were noted in 33 (16.09%) patients in the low-risk group and six (4%) patients in the moderate-risk group. Left ventricular dysfunction was noted in 158 (77.07%) patients in the low-risk group, 78 (52%) patients in the moderate-risk group, and seven (50%) patients in the high-risk group. Cardiogenic shock occurred in seven (3.41%) patients in the low-risk group, 47 (31.33%) patients in the moderate-risk group, and 0 (0%) patient in the high-risk group. Death occurred in seven (3.41%) patients in the low-risk group, 19 (12.66%) patients in the moderate-risk group, and seven (50%) patients in the high-risk group. Conclusion TIMI scoring provides a better assessment in terms of complications caused by STEMI. The complications include the mechanical and electrophysiology of the heart.

Loss of Protease-Activated Receptor 4 Prevents Inflammation Resolution and Predisposes the Heart to Cardiac Rupture After Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Cardiac rupture is a major lethal complication of acute myocardial infarction (MI). Despite significant advances in reperfusion strategies, mortality from cardiac rupture remains high. Studies suggest that cardiac rupture can be accelerated by thrombolytic therapy, but the relevance of this risk factor remains controversial.

METHODS

We analyzed protease-activated receptor 4 (Par4) expression in mouse hearts with MI and investigated the effects of Par4 deletion on cardiac remodeling and function after MI by echocardiography, quantitative immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Par4 mRNA and protein levels were increased in mouse hearts after MI and in isolated cardiomyocytes in response to hypertrophic and inflammatory stimuli. Par4-deficient mice showed less myocyte apoptosis, reduced infarct size, and improved functional recovery after acute MI relative to wild-type (WT). Conversely, Par4^-/- mice showed impaired cardiac function, greater rates of myocardial rupture, and increased mortality after chronic MI relative to WT. Pathological evaluation of hearts from Par4^-/- mice demonstrated a greater infarct expansion, increased cardiac hemorrhage, and delayed neutrophil accumulation, which resulted in impaired post-MI healing compared with WT. Par4 deficiency also attenuated neutrophil apoptosis in vitro and after MI in vivo and impaired inflammation resolution in infarcted myocardium. Transfer of Par4^-/- neutrophils, but not of Par4^-/- platelets, in WT recipient mice delayed inflammation resolution, increased cardiac hemorrhage, and enhanced cardiac dysfunction. In parallel, adoptive transfer of WT neutrophils into Par4^-/- mice restored inflammation resolution, reduced cardiac rupture incidence, and improved cardiac function after MI.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings reveal essential roles of Par4 in neutrophil apoptosis and inflammation resolution during myocardial healing and point to Par4 inhibition as a potential therapy that should be limited to the acute phases of ischemic insult and avoided for long-term treatment after MI.

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Older Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Cardiogenic Shock

BACKGROUND

Older adults ≥75 years of age carry an increased risk of mortality after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) complicated by cardiogenic shock.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to examine the use of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in older adults with STEMI and shock and its influence on in-hospital mortality.

METHODS

We used a large publicly available all-payer inpatient health care database sponsored by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality between 1999 and 2013. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. The influence of PCI on in-hospital mortality was assessed by quintiles of propensity score (PS).

RESULTS

Of the 317,728 encounters with STEMI and shock in the United States, 111,901 (35%) were adults age ≥75 years. Of these, 53% were women and 83% were Caucasians. The median number of chronic conditions was 8 (interquartile range: 6 to 10). The diagnosis of STEMI and cardiogenic shock in older patients decreased significantly over time (proportion of older adults with STEMI and shock: 1999: 42% vs. 2013: 29%). Concomitantly, the rate of PCI utilization in older adults increased (1999: 27% vs. 2013: 56%, p < 0.001), with declining in-hospital mortality rates (1999: 64% vs. 2013: 46%; p < 0.001). Utilizing PS matching methods, PCI was associated with a lower risk of in-hospital mortality across quintiles of propensity score (Mantel-Haenszel odds ratio: 0.48; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45 to 0.51). This reduction in hospital mortality risk was seen across the 4 different U.S. census bureau regions (adjusted odds ratio: Northeast: 0.41; 95% CI: 0.36 to 0.47; Midwest: 0.49; 95% CI: 0.42 to 0.57; South: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.46 to 0.56; West: 0.46; 95% CI: 0.41 to 0.53).

CONCLUSIONS

This large and contemporary analysis shows that utilization of PCI in older adults with STEMI and cardiogenic shock is increasing and paralleled by a substantial reduction in mortality. Although clinical judgment is critical, older adults should not be excluded from early revascularization based on age in the absence of absolute contraindications.

A risk score model for predicting cardiac rupture after acute myocardial infarction

Background:

Cardiac rupture (CR) is a major lethal complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, no valid risk score model was found to predict CR after AMI in previous researches. This study aimed to establish a simple model to assess risk of CR after AMI, which could be easily used in a clinical environment.

Methods:

This was a retrospective case-control study that included 53 consecutive patients with CR after AMI during a period from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2017. The controls included 524 patients who were selected randomly from 7932 AMI patients without CR at a 1:10 ratio. Risk factors for CR were identified using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression. Risk score model was developed based on multiple regression coefficients. Performance of risk model was evaluated using receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves and internal validity was explored using bootstrap analysis.

Results:

Among all 7985 AMI patients, 53 (0.67%) had CR (free wall rupture, n = 39; ventricular septal rupture, n = 14). Hospital mortalities were 92.5% and 4.01% in patients with and without CR (P < 0.001). Independent variables associated with CR included: older age, female gender, higher heart rate at admission, body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m², lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and no primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) treatment. In ROC analysis, our CR risk assess model demonstrated a very good discriminate power (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.895, 95% confidence interval: 0.845–0.944, optimism-corrected AUC = 0.821, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

This study developed a novel risk score model to help predict CR after AMI, which had high accuracy and was very simple to use.

Cardiac MRI-guided interventional occlusion of ventricular septal rupture in a patient with cobalt alloy stent

The case of a 68-year-old man with chest pain for 3 days is presented. Coronary angiography demonstrated subtotal occlusion of the mid-left anterior descending artery. A drug-eluting cobalt alloy stent was implanted after balloon dilation. On the 3^rd postoperative day, echocardiography showed a ventricular septal rupture (VSR) (7 mm diameter) near the cardiac apex and ventricular aneurysm. On cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the VSR was shown to be 11 mm in diameter. The membranous septum was 32 and 27.8 mm along the anteroposterior and superoinferior axes, respectively. The left-to-right shunt was apparent. Four weeks later, interventional therapy was performed to occlude the VSR according to the result of the MRI. The symptoms improved rapidly, and the patient was discharged. At the 4-month follow up visit, cardiac MRI revealed no shunt at the occlusion site, and the edge of the occluder was secured in the adjacent normal cardiac tissues. In conclusion, cardiac MRI could be considered for patients with a newly implanted cobalt alloy stent to provide an accurate assessment of VSR.

Management of cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction: A review

Despite advances in percutaneous coronary interventions and their widespread use, mortality in patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction (MI) complicated by cardiogenic shock (CS) has remained very high, and treatment options are limited. Limited evidences exist, supporting many of the routinely used therapies in treating these patients. In the present article, we discuss CS complicating MI in general and an update on the currently available treatment options, including inotropes and vasopressor, coronary revascularization, mechanical circulatory support devices, mechanical complications, and long‐term outcomes.

Comparison of epidemiology, treatments and outcomes of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction between young and elderly patients

BACKGROUND

With an ageing population, there is a need to understand the relative risk/benefit of interventions for elderly ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. The primary aim of this study was to compare epidemiology, treatments and outcomes between young and elderly STEMI patients. Our secondary aim was to determine the cut-off age when the benefits of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) were less pronounced.

METHODS

Data were collected by the Singapore Myocardial Infarction Registry. Patients were categorised into young (age <65 years) and elderly STEMI (age ≥65 years) patients.

RESULTS

We analysed 14 006 STEMI cases collected between January 2007 and December 2014; 33.9% were elderly STEMI patients. Elderly STEMI patients had longer median door to balloon (73 vs 64 min, P<0.001) time and were less likely to receive PCI (proportion difference=-23.6%, 95% CI -25.3 to -22.0). In the absence of PCI, elderly STEMI patients had a higher mortality within 30 days (elderly: HR 1.65, 95% CI 1.36 to 1.99, P<0.001; young: HR 1.10, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.54, P=0.573) and 1 year (elderly: HR 1.83, 95% CI 1.57 to 2.14, P<0.001; young: HR 1.41, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.83, P=0.009) of admission. The 1 year survival benefit of PCI started to decline after the age of 65 years.

CONCLUSION

Elderly STEMI patients were less likely to receive PCI and had longer door to balloon times. Survival benefit of PCI decreased after the age of 65 years, with the decline most evident from age 85 years onwards. The risks of PCI need to be weighed carefully against its benefits, especially in very elderly patients.

Simultaneous acute cardio-cerebral infarction: is there a consensus for management?

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are both life-threatening medical conditions with narrow therapeutic time-window that carry grave prognosis if not addressed promptly. The acute management of both condition is well documented in the literature, however the management of a simultaneous presentation of both AIS and AMI is unclear. A delayed intervention of one infarcted territory for the other may result in permanent irreversible morbidity or disability, and even death. In addition, the use of antiplatelet and anticoagulants that are inherently part of an AMI management may increase the risk for hemorrhagic conversion associated with intravenous thrombolysis used in AIS, and the use of a thrombolytic in AIS increases the risk of cardiac wall rupture in the setting of an AMI. Despite this ambiguity, there is no clear evidence-based guideline or clinical studies that have addressed the optimal management of this rare co-occurrence. This review paper examines the existing literature on the management of simultaneous acute cardio-cerebral infarction (CCI) and highlights the existing challenge to management.

Comparison of the risk of left ventricular free wall rupture in Taiwanese patients with ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction undergoing different reperfusion strategies: A medical record review study

Ventricular free wall rupture (VFWR) is the second most common cause of death in patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Nevertheless, few reports have investigated the factors, including different treatment strategies, associated with VFWR in Taiwanese patients. Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare the risk of VFWR in Taiwanese patients with acute STEMI who had received primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), rescue PCI, scheduled PCI, thrombolytic therapy, and pharmacologic treatment. In this medical records review study, records of patients with acute STEMI admitted to a regional hospital in south Taiwan between March 1999 and October 2013 were screened. Multivariate stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between the risk of VFWR and its independent factors. The overall incidence of VFWR among the 1545 patients with acute STEMI in this study was 1.6%. Compared with primary PCI, the risk of VFWR was significantly higher in patients who had received thrombolysis (adjusted odds ratio = 6.83, P = 0.003) or pharmacologic treatment alone (adjusted odds ratio = 3.68, P = 0.014). The risk of VFWR in patients receiving rescue PCI or scheduled PCI was not significantly different from that in patients receiving primary PCI. In addition, older age and Killip class >I were associated with an increased risk of VFWR in patients with acute STEMI, whereas the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors was associated with a lower risk of VFWR. In conclusion, findings from this medical record review study provide support for the use of primary PCI, rescue PCI, and scheduled PCI over thrombolytic therapy and pharmacologic treatment in reducing the risk of VFWR in Taiwanese patients with acute STEMI.

Acute Complications of Myocardial Infarction in the Current Era: Diagnosis and Management

Coronary heart disease is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. The incidence of mechanical complications of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has gone down to less than 1% since the advent of percutaneous coronary intervention, but although mortality resulting from AMI has gone down in recent years, the burden remains high. Mechanical complications of AMI include cardiogenic shock, free wall rupture, ventricular septal rupture, acute mitral regurgitation, and right ventricular infarction. Detailed knowledge of the complications and their risk factors can help clinicians in making an early diagnosis. Prompt diagnosis with appropriate medical therapy and timely surgical intervention are necessary for favorable outcomes.

Temporal trends in the use of reperfusion therapy and outcomes in elderly patients with first ST elevation myocardial infarction

AIMS

To analyze secular trends in management and short and long-term prognosis of elderly presenting with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS AND RESULTS

All patients ≥ 75 years with first STEMI admitted to our Coronary Care Unit between 1988 and 2008 were included. Baseline characteristics, clinical management, in-hospital and post-discharge outcomes in 4 time periods (1988-1993, 1994-1998, 1999-2003, 2004-2008) were compared. The final cohort consisted of 1393 patients. During the study period, there was a significant increase in the use of aspirin, β-blockers and ACE inhibitors. A significant reduction in the development of cardiogenic shock and mechanical complications was noticed. The use of reperfusion therapy increased significantly, due to a wider use of primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) while 30-days, 1-year and 5-year mortality decreased throughout the 20-year study period (p<0.001). In the multivariable logistic regression model, patients treated with PPCI showed a significantly lower 30-day (OR 0.47, 95% CI, 0.31-0.71), 1-year (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.43-0.88) and 5-year mortality (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.41-0.79) while patients receiving fibrinolysis showed a non-significant improvement in 30-day (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.62-1.49), 1-year (OR 0.86, 95% CI 0.58-1.30) and 5-year mortality (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.56-1.19).

CONCLUSION

The use of reperfusion therapy, and particularly of PPCI, for elderly patients suffering from STEMI increased significantly during the study period. This change in therapy was associated with a marked improvement in short and long-term prognosis.

Trends in the clinical and pathological characteristics of cardiac rupture in patients with acute myocardial infarction over 35 years

Background

There is little known about whether the clinical and pathological characteristics and incidence of cardiac rupture (CR) in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) have changed over the years.

Methods and Results

The incidence and clinical characteristics of CR were investigated in patients with AMI, who were divided into 3 cohorts: 1977–1989, 1990–2000, and 2001–2011. Of a total of 5699 patients, 144 were diagnosed with CR and 45 survived. Over the years, the incidence of CR decreased (1977–1989, 3.3%; 1990–2000, 2.8%; 2001–2011, 1.7%; P=0.002) in association with the widespread adoption of reperfusion therapy. The mortality rate of CR decreased (1977–1989, 90%; 1990–2000, 56%; 2001–2011, 50%; P=0.002) in association with an increase in the rate of emergent surgery. In multivariable analysis, first myocardial infarction, anterior infarct, female sex, hypertension, and age >70 years were significant risk factors for CR, whereas impact of hypertension on CR was weaker from 2001 to 2011. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) was a significant protective factor against CR. In 64 autopsy cases with CR, myocardial hemorrhage occurred more frequently in those who underwent PPCI or fibrinolysis than those who did not receive reperfusion therapy (no reperfusion therapy, 18.0%; fibrinolysis, 71.4%; PPCI, 83.3%; P=0.001).

Conclusions

With the development of medical treatment, the incidence and mortality rate of CR have decreased. However, first myocardial infarction, anterior infarct, female sex, and old age remain important risk factors for CR. Adjunctive cardioprotection against reperfusion‐induced myocardial hemorrhage is emerging in the current PPCI era.

Predictors of moderate-to-severe pericardial effusion, cardiac tamponade, and electromechanical dissociation in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction

Occurrence of moderate-to-severe pericardial effusion (PE; ≥10 mm), cardiac tamponade (CT), and sudden electromechanical dissociation (EMD) was investigated in 4,361 patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction from 1993 to 2011 in 3 different periods: 1993 to 2000 (n: 1,488); 2001 to 2008 (n: 1,844); and 2009 to 2011 (n: 1,014). Their predictors, including the use of no reperfusion therapy (n: 1,186), thrombolysis (n: 1,607), or primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI, n: 1,562), were also evaluated. Incidence of PE (8.7%, 6.8%, and 5.0%), CT (5.0%, 2.9%, and 1.9%), and EMD (3.7%, 1.7%, and 1.0%), declined over the 3 periods as did mortality (12.0% 8.2%, and 5.9%) with different rates of thrombolytic therapy (52%, 37%, and 14%) and PPCI (7%, 38%, and 76%; all p<0.001). In patients treated without reperfusion therapy, thrombolysis, and PPCI, incidence of PE (12.0%, 5.7%, and 4.3%), CT (6.0%, 3.0%, and 2.2%), and EMD (4.1%, 2.2%, and 0.8%) was different as was mortality (14.4%, 8.3%, and 5.9%; all p<0.001). Independent predictors of PE were lateral infarction (odds ratio [OR] 4.09, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.57 to 6.49), increasing age (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.07), number of electrocardiographic leads involved (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.23 to 1.45), and admission delay (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.02). Increasing ejection fraction (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.96 to 0.98), thrombolysis (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.75), and PPCI (OR 0.35, 95% CI 0.25 to 0.50), however, were protectors (all p<0.001). Lateral infarction, age, number of leads involved, ejection fraction, thrombolytic therapy, and PPCI were also predictors/protectors of CT and EMD. In conclusion, PE, CT, and EMD rates in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction have objectively fallen in the last 2 decades, and their predictors are lateral site, increasing age, number of leads involved, and lack of reperfusion therapy. Late hospital admission is also a relevant predictor of PE.

Risk of cardiac rupture after acute myocardial infarction is related to a risk of hemorrhage

Although cardiac rupture (CR) is a fatal mechanical complication of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), to date no predictive model for CR has been described. CR has common pathological characteristics with major bleeding. We aimed to investigate the relationship between the risk factors of major bleeding and CR. A total of 10202 consecutive AMI patients were recruited, and mechanical complications occurred in 72 patients. AMI patients without CR were chosen as control group. Clinical characteristics including bleeding-related factors were compared between the groups. The incidences of free wall rupture (FWR), ventricular septal rupture (VSR), and papillary muscle rupture (PMR) were 0.39%, 0.21%, and 0.09%, respectively, and the hospital mortalities were 92.5%, 45.5%, and 10.0%, respectively. Female proportion and average age were significantly higher in the groups of FWR and VSR than in the control group (P<0.01); higher white blood cell count and lower hemoglobin were found in all CR groups (P<0.01). Compared to the control group, patients with CR were more likely to receive an administration of thrombolysis [26.39% vs. 13.19%, P<0.05], and were less likely to be treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) [41.67% vs. 81.60%, P<0.05]. The major bleeding scores (integer scores) of FWR, VSR, and PMR were (17.70±7.24), (21.91±8.33), and (18.60±7.88), respectively, and were significantly higher than that of the control group (11.72±7.71) (P<0.05). A regression analysis identified age, increased heart rate, anemia, higher white blood cell count, and thrombolysis as independent risk factors of CR, most of which were major bleeding-related factors. The patients with CR have a significantly higher risk of hemorrhage compared to the group without CR. Risk of CR after AMI is related to the risk of hemorrhage.

Cardiogenic shock in ACS. Part 1: prediction, presentation and medical therapy

Ischemic cardiogenic shock is a complex, self-perpetuating pathological process that frequently causes death irrespective of medical therapy. Early definition of coronary anatomy is a pivotal step towards survival. Those destined to develop shock are likely to have three-vessel or left main stem disease with previously impaired left ventricular function. Early reperfusion of the occluded artery can limit infarct size, but ischemia-reperfusion injury or the 'no-reflow' phenomenon can preclude improvement in myocardial contractility. Emergence of shock depends upon the volume of ischemic myocardium, stroke volume, and peripheral vascular resistance. If cytokine release triggers the systemic inflammatory response, systemic vascular resistance falls and inadequate coronary perfusion pressure heralds the downward spiral. Survival depends on early recognition of shock, followed by aggressive targeted treatment of left, right, or biventricular failure. The goal is to prevent end-organ dysfunction and severe metabolic derangement by raising mean arterial pressure, which is achieved with inotropes and vasopressors, often at the expense of tachycardia, elevated myocardial oxygen consumption, and extended ischemia. The value of intra-aortic balloon counter-pulsation is now questioned in patients with advanced shock. When mean arterial pressure is <55 mmHg with serum lactate >11 mmol/l, death is likely and mechanical circulatory support becomes the only chance for survival.

Primary percutaneous coronary interventions in nonagenarians

BACKGROUND

The optimal treatment of very elderly patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is not yet defined. The aim of this study is to present the feasibility and safety of primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) in nonagenarians.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent primary PCI due to STEMI between 2004 and 2008 was performed. Patients age 90 years or older at the time of the procedure were identified and studied.

RESULTS

Twenty-two patients fulfilled the study criteria (median age 92 years; range, 90-97 years; 50% women). The procedural success rate was 82%. Bare metal stent implantation was performed in 82% of the procedures, whereas only balloon angioplasty was performed on the rest of them. One patient experienced a minor bleeding complication. Procedural mortality was 9% (2 out of 22 patients), and it was due to "no flow" phenomenon in both patients. In-hospital mortality was 27% (6/22 patients) and 30-day mortality was 32% (7/22 patients). All 3 patients with Killip class III-IV on admission died within 30 days compared with 4 of the 19 patients with Killip class I-II (P = 0.023). Furthermore, of 11 patients with anterior infarction, 7 died within 30 days compared with none of the 11 patients with infarction of other location (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Although primary PCI is feasible in patients 90 years or older suffering from STEMI, the short-term mortality rate is high especially in patients with anterior infarct location and/or severely depressed myocardial function.

Comparison of outcomes in patients aged <75, 75 to 84, and ≥ 85 years with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (from the ACTION Registry-GWTG)

ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is common in older adults and has high age-related mortality. We describe contemporary STEMI care using the National Cardiovascular Data Registry Acute Coronary Treatment and Intervention Network Registry-Get With The Guidelines (ACTION-GWTG) database. Patients with STEMI (n = 30,188) from 285 ACTION-GWTG sites from January 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008 were grouped by age (<75, 75 to 84, and ≥ 85 years) to compare baseline characteristics, reperfusion, and in-hospital outcomes. In this population, 79.7% (24,070) were <75 years old, 14.2% (4,273) were 75 to 84 years old, and 6.1% (1,845) were ≥ 85 years old (the oldest old). Compared to younger patients, the oldest-old patients (median age 88 years, interquartile range 86 to 91) were more often women, had more hypertension, and end-organ co-morbidity (heart failure and stroke, p <0.0001 for all). More than 42% of the oldest old were also cited as having contraindications to reperfusion, but with absolute or relative contraindications noted in only 10%, and patient preference was the most common reason indicated (45%). Even in reperfusion-eligible patients, the oldest old were less likely to receive it. Although patients who received reperfusion had better outcomes than those who did not, this was significant only for younger patients (< 75 years old, odds ratio 0.58, confidence interval 0.40 to 0.84). In conclusion, > 42% of the oldest old have reported contraindications to reperfusion, with neither mortality benefit nor harm in those who receive it. Disparities in process of care and co-morbidity may explain these observational findings. Whether efforts to optimize patient selection and initiate reperfusion therapy can improve outcomes in the oldest old with STEMI is unknown.

Factors related to heart rupture in acute coronary syndromes in the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events

AIMS

To determine the incidence and factors associated with heart rupture (HR) in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Among 60 198 patients, 273 (0.45%) had HR (free wall rupture, n = 118; ventricular septal rupture, n = 155). Incidence was 0.9% for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), 0.17% for non-STEMI, and 0.25% for unstable angina. Hospital mortality was 58 vs. 4.5% in patients without HR (P < 0.001). The incidence was lower in STEMI patients with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) than in those without (0.7 vs. 1.1%; P = 0.01), but primary PCI was not independently related to HR in adjusted analysis (P = 0.20). Independent variables associated with HR included: ST-segment elevation (STE)/left bundle branch block; ST-segment deviation; female sex; previous stroke; positive initial cardiac biomarkers; older age; higher heart rate; systolic blood pressure/30 mmHg decrease. Conversely, previous MI and the use of low-molecular-weight heparin and beta-blockers during first 24 h were identified as protective factors for HR.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of HR is low in patients with ACS, although its incidence is probably underestimated. Heart rupture occurs more frequently in ACS with STE and is associated with high hospital mortality. A number of variables are independently related to HR.

Mechanical complications after percutaneous coronary intervention in ST-elevation myocardial infarction (from APEX-AMI)

A decrease in mechanical complications after ST-elevation myocardial infarction may have contributed to improved survival rates associated with reperfusion by primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Mechanical complications occurred in 52 of 5,745 patients (0.91%) in the largest reported randomized trial in which primary PCI was the reperfusion strategy. The frequencies were 0.52% (30) for cardiac free-wall rupture (tamponade), 0.17% (10) for ventricular septal rupture, and 0.26% (15) for papillary muscle rupture (3 patients had 2 complications). Ninety-day survival rates were 37% (11) for cardiac free-wall rupture, 20% (2) for ventricular septal rupture, and 73.3% (11) for papillary muscle rupture. These mechanical complications occurred at a median of 23.5 hours (interquartile range 5.0 to 76.8) after symptom onset and were associated with 44% (23 of 52) survival through 90 days, which accounted for 11% of the 90-day mortality. Factors associated with mechanical complications were older age, female gender, Q waves, presence of radiologic pulmonary edema, and increased prerandomization troponin levels. In conclusion, rates of mechanical complications are lower with primary PCI than those previously reported after fibrinolytic therapy.

Comparison of Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention and Fibrinolytic Therapy in ST-Segment-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Background— Published meta-analyses comparing primary percutaneous coronary intervention with fibrinolytic therapy in patients with ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction include only randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We aim to obviate the limited applicability of RCTs to real-world settings by undertaking meta-analyses of both RCTs and observational studies.

Methods and Results— We included all RCTs and observational studies, without language restriction, published up to May 1, 2008. We completed separate bayesian hierarchical random-effect meta-analyses for 23 RCTs (8140 patients) and 32 observational studies (185 900 patients). Primary percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with reductions in short-term (≤6-week) mortality of 34% (odds ratio, 0.66; 95% credible interval, 0.51 to 0.82) in randomized trials, and 23% lower mortality (odds ratio, 0.77; 95% credible interval, 0.62 to 0.95) in observational studies. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with reductions in stroke of 63% in RCTs and 61% in observational studies. At long-term follow-up (≥1 year), primary percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with a 24% reduction in mortality (odds ratio, 0.76; 95% credible interval, 0.58 to 0.95) and a 51% reduction in reinfarction (odds ratio, 0.49; 95% credible interval, 0.32 to 0.66) in RCTs. However, there was no conclusive benefit of primary percutaneous coronary intervention in the long term in the observational studies.

Conclusions— Compared with fibrinolytic therapy, primary percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with short-term reductions in mortality, reinfarction, and stroke in ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction. Primary percutaneous coronary intervention was associated with long-term reductions in mortality and reinfarction in RCTs, but there was no conclusive evidence for a long-term benefit in mortality and reinfarction in observational studies.

Changes in hospital mortality rates in 425 patients with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction and cardiac rupture over a 30-year period

BACKGROUND

Possible changes in the incidence and outcome of cardiac rupture in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction over a long period of time have not been investigated.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The incidence of cardiac rupture in ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients and its mortality rate were investigated during a 30-year period divided into 5 intervals (1977 to 1982, 1983 to 1988, 1989 to 1994, 1995 to 2000, and 2001 to 2006). Of a total of 6678 consecutive patients, 425 experienced a free wall rupture (280 with cardiac tamponade: 227 with electromechanical dissociation and 53 with hypotension) or a septal rupture (145). After the exclusion of referrals from other centers (n=44), the incidence of definite cardiac rupture (septal rupture, anatomic evidence of free wall rupture, or electromechanical dissociation) declined progressively (6.2% in 1977 to 1982 to 3.2% in 2001 to 2006; P<0.001) in parallel with a progressive use of reperfusion therapy (0% to 75.1%; P<0.001). In addition, among patients with cardiac rupture, there was a progressive fall in the rate of death (94% to 75%; P<0.001) despite a trend toward increasing age (66+/-8 to 75+/-8 years; P<0.054) in conjunction with better control of systolic blood pressure at 24 hours (130+/-24 versus 110+/-18 mm Hg; P<0.001); an increased use of reperfusion therapy (0% to 59%; P<0.001), beta-blockers (0% to 45%; P<0.001), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (0% to 38%; P<0.001), and aspirin (0% to 96%; P<0.001); and a lower use of heparin (99% to 67%; P<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The decline in the incidence in cardiac rupture and its rate of death over the last 30 years appears to be associated with the increasing use of reperfusion strategies and adjunct medical therapy.

Role of healing-specific-matricellular proteins and matrix metalloproteinases in age-related enhanced early remodeling after reperfused STEMI in dogs

We assessed whether aging augments left ventricular (LV) damage, remodeling, and dysfunction and alters expression of healing-specific-matricellular proteins (HSMPs), matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and other pertinent proteins after acute reperfused-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (RSTEMI) in the dog model. The findings suggest a novel role for HSMPs, MMPs, and the other proteins in the age-related increase in LV damage, remodeling, and dysfunction. Potentially detrimental effects of the altered proteins appear to outweigh beneficial effects and contribute to adverse outcome. Deleterious changes include the increase in matrix-degrading MMPs, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, HSMPs such as secreted-protein-acidic-and-rich-in-cysteine (SPARC) and osteopontin (OPN), the blunted increase in endothelial-NOS (eNOS), and the decrease in IL-10 and neuronal NOS (nNOS). Potentially beneficial changes include increases in the HSMP secretory-leucocyte-protease-inhibitor (SLPI) and cytokine transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta(1). Targeting these proteins may mitigate enhanced LV remodeling and dysfunction with aging.

Pleiotropic effects of cardiac drugs on healing post-MI. The good, bad, and ugly

Healing after myocardial infarction (MI) is a well-orchestrated time-dependent process that involves inflammation, tissue repair with extracellular collagen matrix (ECCM) deposition and scar formation, and remodeling of myocardial structure, matrix, vasculature, and function. Rapid early ECCM degradation followed by slow ECCM replacement and maturation during post-MI healing results in a prolonged window of enhanced vulnerability to adverse remodeling. Decreased ECCM results in adverse ventricular remodeling, dysfunction, and rupture. Inflammation, a critical factor in normal healing, if impaired results in adverse remodeling and rupture. Several therapeutic drugs prescribed after MI exert pleiotropic effects that suppress ECCM and inflammation during healing and may have good, bad, or ugly consequences. This article reviews the potential impact of pleiotropic effects of some prototypic cardiac drugs such as renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors, statins, and thrombolytics during healing post-ST-segment-elevation MI (STEMI), with special focus on inflammation, ECCM and remodeling, and implications in the elderly.

Change to a primary PCI program increases number of patients offered reperfusion therapy and significantly reduces mortality: a real life experience evaluating the initiation of a primary PCI service at a single center without on site heart surgery in Western Norway

INTRODUCTION

After changing our treatment regimen from thrombolytic therapy to primary percutaneous intervention (PCI), we decided to perform a real-life retrospective comparison of the results obtained by thrombolytic therapy in 2000 with the results obtained by primary PCI in 2004 at our center which has no on-site cardiac surgery.

METHODS

All patients admitted with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) during 2000 and 2004 were included in our study. The charts were scrutinized by one of the authors to ensure accurate information on diagnostics and timing. Relevant data, which were predefined, were noted and compared in patients treated during the two time-periods.

RESULTS

During the year of 2000, 197 patients were admitted with STEMI. Thrombolytics were administered to 138 of these patients. During 2004, 175 patients were admitted with STEMI and PCI was performed in 173 of these patients. Door-to-needle time was 28min and door-to-balloon time 80min, respectively. In-hospital mortality was significantly reduced from 2000 to 2004 (19.3% vs 8.6%, p=0.003). 30 day-mortality was likewise reduced from 21.3% to 8.6%, (p=0.0001), and this difference remained significant after excluding patients not receiving thrombolytics in the year 2000. In-hospital stay was reduced from 9.4 to 6.4 days, (p<0.001). None of the patients required transfer to a tertiary center for acute coronary artery bypass grafting.

CONCLUSION

Initiation of a primary PCI program at a center without on site cardiac surgery is associated with a substantial increase in number of patients offered reperfusion therapy and a significant reduction in morbidity and mortality.

Acute Coronary Care in the Elderly, Part II

Background— Age is an important determinant of outcomes for patients with acute coronary syndromes. However, community practice reveals a disproportionately lower use of cardiovascular medications and invasive treatment even among elderly patients who would stand to benefit. Limited trial data are available to guide care of older adults, which results in uncertainty about benefits and risks, particularly with newer medications or invasive treatments and in the setting of advanced age and complex health status.

Methods and Results— Part II of this American Heart Association scientific statement summarizes evidence on presentation and treatment of ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction in relation to age (<65, 65 to 74, 75 to 84, and ≥85 years). The purpose of this statement is to identify areas in which the evidence is sufficient to guide practice in the elderly and to highlight areas that warrant further study. Treatment-related benefits should rise in an elderly population, yet data to confirm these benefits are limited, and the heterogeneity of older populations increases treatment-associated risks. Elderly patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction more often have relative and absolute contraindications to reperfusion, so eligibility for reperfusion declines with age, and yet elderly patients are less likely to receive reperfusion even if eligible. Data support a benefit from reperfusion in elderly subgroups up to age 85 years. The selection of reperfusion strategy is determined more by availability, time from presentation, shock, and comorbidity than by age. Additional data are needed on selection and dosing of adjunctive therapies and on complications in the elderly. A “one-size-fits-all” approach to care in the oldest old is not feasible, and ethical issues will remain even in the presence of adequate evidence. Nevertheless, if the contributors to treatment benefits and risks are understood, guideline-recommended care may be applied in a patient-centered manner in the oldest subset of patients.

Conclusions— Few trials have adequately described treatment effects in older patients with ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction. In the future, absolute and relative risks for efficacy and safety in age subgroups should be reported, and trials should make efforts to enroll the elderly in proportion to their prevalence among the treated population. Outcomes of particular relevance to the older adult, such as quality of life, physical function, and independence, should also be evaluated, and geriatric conditions unique to this age group, such as frailty and cognitive impairment, should be considered for their influence on care and outcomes. With these efforts, treatment risks can be minimized, and benefits can be placed within the health context of the elderly patient.

Update on the management of cardiogenic shock

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Cardiogenic shock is a life-threatening emergency that occurs frequently with acute coronary syndromes. If rapid myocardial reperfusion following acute myocardial infarction is not obtained, either with thrombolytics or by revascularization, cardiogenic shock frequently develops and the mortality rate is high. This review summarizes recent advances in the pathophysiology, incidence and treatment of cardiogenic shock. Particular attention is given to pharmacologic advances.

RECENT FINDINGS

Cardiogenic shock continues to occur in 5-10% of patients who suffer a myocardial infarction and the mortality remains over 50% in most studies. Treatment preference is referral to a cardiac center capable of reperfusion using multiple therapies. While no delay in reperfusion is acceptable, emphasis on implementing supportive treatment such as vasopressors, inotropes, and fluids remains critical. There is a wide variance in treatment standards despite established guidelines. Overall mortality from cardiogenic shock has decreased but the incidence remains unchanged.

SUMMARY

Emerging pharmacological interventions designed to counteract the underlying proinflammatory pathophysiologic mechanisms may, in combination with early revascularization, result in improved patient outcomes, but there is no magic bullet on the horizon. Attention to the timeliness of transport and treatment of patients with a focus on revascularization is required for cardiogenic shock patients.