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Frydman S, Freund O, Zornitzki L, Katash HA, Topilsky Y, Borenstein G. Predicting the Outcomes of Inpatient Cardiac Evaluation for Syncope Using Validated Risk Scores. Am J Med 2024:S0002-9343(24)00349-8. [PMID: 38871205 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2024.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Validated syncope risk scores were aimed to predict a cardiac etiology and are mainly used in the decision of hospital admission. Whether these scores could also predict the outcomes of inpatient cardiac evaluation is unknown and was the subject of our study. METHODS This was an observational study including consecutive patients admitted for syncope evaluation. All patients completed prolonged electrocardiogram monitoring and an echocardiography before discharge. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to evaluate the ability of validated risk scores to predict positive inpatient findings. Subsequently, a multivariate regression was performed to identify independent predictors for positive cardiac evaluation, which were then incorporated into the best predictive risk scores. RESULTS Three hundred ninety-seven patients were included, 56 (14%) with a positive inpatient cardiac evaluation. The Osservatorio Epidemiologico sulla Sincope Lazio and Canadian Syncope Risk Score achieved the largest AUC (0.701, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.63-0.77 and 0.694, 95% CI 0.62-0.77, respectively). Yet, all scores provided relatively high sensitivity with low specificity. Multivariate regression revealed age ≥75 (adjusted odds ratio 3.50, 95% CI 1.5-7.9) and abnormal cardiac auscultation (adjusted odds ratio 4.79, 95% CI 2.5-9.1) to be independent predictors. Incorporating these factors led to a significantly higher prediction ability of the Osservatorio Epidemiologico sulla Sincope Lazio (AUC of 0.787, P < .01) and Canadian Syncope Risk Score (AUC 0.778, P < .01) modified scores. CONCLUSIONS Current syncope risk scores provide limited prediction ability for the outcomes of inpatient cardiac syncope work-up. One should specifically consider age > 75 years and either cardiac murmur or irregular heart rate on examination very significant in implying a cardiac etiology for syncope. Although these factors may be obvious, current risk scores can be interpreted in such a fashion that ignores the importance of findings extracted from a good history and physical examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shir Frydman
- Internal Medicine B, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel; Department of Cardiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel.
| | - Ophir Freund
- Internal Medicine B, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Lior Zornitzki
- Department of Cardiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Haytham Abu Katash
- Department of Cardiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Yan Topilsky
- Department of Cardiology, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
| | - Gil Borenstein
- Internal Medicine B, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Israel
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Ghariq M, van den Hout WB, Dekkers OM, Bootsma M, de Groot B, Groothuis JGJ, Harms MPM, Hemels MEW, Kaal ECA, Koomen EM, de Lange FJ, Peeters SYG, van Rossum IA, Rutten JHW, van Zwet EW, van Dijk JG, Thijs RD. Diagnostic and societal impact of implementing the syncope guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology (SYNERGY study). BMC Med 2023; 21:365. [PMID: 37743496 PMCID: PMC10518933 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03056-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syncope management is fraught with unnecessary tests and frequent failure to establish a diagnosis. We evaluated the potential of implementing the 2018 European Society of Cardiology (ESC) Syncope Guidelines regarding diagnostic yield, accuracy and costs. METHODS A multicentre pre-post study in five Dutch hospitals comparing two groups of syncope patients visiting the emergency department: one before intervention (usual care; from March 2017 to February 2019) and one afterwards (from October 2017 to September 2019). The intervention consisted of the simultaneous implementation of the ESC Syncope Guidelines with quick referral routes to a syncope unit when indicated. The primary objective was to compare diagnostic accuracy using logistic regression analysis accounting for the study site. Secondary outcome measures included diagnostic yield, syncope-related healthcare and societal costs. One-year follow-up data were used to define a gold standard reference diagnosis by applying ESC criteria or, if not possible, evaluation by an expert committee. We determined the accuracy by comparing the treating physician's diagnosis with the reference diagnosis. RESULTS We included 521 patients (usual care, n = 275; syncope guidelines intervention, n = 246). The syncope guidelines intervention resulted in a higher diagnostic accuracy in the syncope guidelines group than in the usual care group (86% vs.69%; risk ratio 1.15; 95% CI 1.07 to 1.23) and a higher diagnostic yield (89% vs. 76%, 95% CI of the difference 6 to 19%). Syncope-related healthcare costs did not differ between the groups, yet the syncope guideline implementation resulted in lower total syncope-related societal costs compared to usual care (saving €908 per patient; 95% CI €34 to €1782). CONCLUSIONS ESC Syncope Guidelines implementation in the emergency department with quick referral routes to a syncope unit improved diagnostic yield and accuracy and lowered societal costs. TRIAL REGISTRATION Netherlands Trial Register, NTR6268.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ghariq
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | - W B van den Hout
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - O M Dekkers
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - M Bootsma
- Department of Cardiology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - B de Groot
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - J G J Groothuis
- Department of Cardiology, Diakonessenhuis, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - M P M Harms
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M E W Hemels
- Department of Cardiology, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, The Netherlands
- Department of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - E C A Kaal
- Department of Neurology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E M Koomen
- Department of Cardiology, Gelre Hospital, Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
| | - F J de Lange
- Department of Cardiology, Amsterdam University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Y G Peeters
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Flevo Hospital, Almere, The Netherlands
| | - I A van Rossum
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - J H W Rutten
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - E W van Zwet
- Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - J G van Dijk
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - R D Thijs
- Department of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, PO Box 9600, 2300 RC, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, Heemstede, The Netherlands
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Galron E, Kehat O, Weiss-Meilik A, Furlan R, Jacob G. Diagnostic approaches to syncope in Internal Medicine Departments and their effect on mortality. Eur J Intern Med 2022; 102:97-103. [PMID: 35599110 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2022.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Most data on mortality and investigational approaches to syncope comes from patients presented to emergency departments (ED). The aim of this study is to report intermediate term mortality in syncope patients admitted to Internal Medicine Departments and whether different diagnostic approaches to syncope affect mortality. Methods and results A single-center retrospective-observational study conducted at the Tel Aviv "Sourasky" Medical Center. Data was collected from electronic medical records (EMRs), from January 2010 to December 2020. We identified 24,021 patients, using ICD-9-CM codes. Only 7967 syncope patients were admitted to Internal Medicine Departments and evaluated. Logistic regression models were used to determine the effects of diagnostic testing per patient in each department on 30-day mortality and readmission rates. All-cause 30-day mortality rate was 4.1%. There was a significant difference in the number of diagnostic tests performed per patient between the different departments, without affecting 30-day mortality. The 30-day readmission rate was 11.4%, of which 4.4% were a result of syncope. Conclusion Syncope patients admitted to Internal Medicine Departments show a 30-day all-cause mortality rate of ∼4%. Despite the heterogeneity in the approach to the diagnosis of syncope, mortality is not affected. This novel information about syncope patients in large Internal Medicine Departments is further proof that the diagnosis of syncope requires a logic, personalized approach that focuses on medical history and a few tailored, diagnostic tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehud Galron
- Department of Medicine F. Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel; Recanati Autonomic Research Center, Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Orli Kehat
- I-Medata AI Center, Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Ahuva Weiss-Meilik
- I-Medata AI Center, Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel
| | - Raffaello Furlan
- Internal Medicine, Humanitas Research Hospital, Humanitas University, Rozzano, Italy
| | - Giris Jacob
- Department of Medicine F. Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel; Recanati Autonomic Research Center, Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv-Yafo, Israel.
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Uppoor RB, Patel K. Syncope: Diagnostic Yield of Various Clinical Investigations. Cureus 2022; 14:e23596. [PMID: 35505734 PMCID: PMC9053362 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.23596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: The present study was designed to evaluate the clinical profile of patients with syncope and the usefulness of various tests to reach a diagnosis of syncope and its etiology. Methods: This was a cross-sectional, observational study that enrolled 90 consecutive patients (aged ≥ 12 years) who presented with syncope. Detailed information was obtained from each enrolled patient on history and physical examination. All patients underwent electrocardiography (ECG) and echocardiographic examination. Other specific tests were also performed based on the findings from medical history, physical examination, ECG, and echocardiography findings. Results: Among 90 patients with syncope, 45% were males, and age distribution showed a bimodal distribution with two peaks. A total of 67% and 5% of patients had past history of syncope and injury due to syncope, respectively. Of the patients, 38% underwent Holter monitoring, 79 (87%) underwent head-up tilt table test (HUTT) test, 8% underwent treadmill test, 36% underwent CT/MRI of the brain, 25% underwent electroencephalography, 40% underwent carotid sinus massage, 7% underwent coronary angiography, 3% underwent electrophysiological study, and 3% of patients underwent carotid Doppler ultrasound. The commonly noted syncope was vasovagal/neutrally mediated syncope (68%). However, the etiology of syncope could not be determined in six (7%) patients. Conclusion: This study concluded that the initial evaluation of patients with syncope should focus on history, physical examination, and ECG examination. Information obtained from such basic evaluations should be used to guide the selection of further high yield tests to reduce the cost of evaluation and for appropriate workup for the diagnosis of syncope.
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Ghariq M, van Bodegom-Vos L, Brignole M, Peeters SYG, de Groot B, Kaal ECA, Hemels MEW, de Lange FJ, van Dijk JG, Thijs RD. Factors facilitating and hindering the implementation of the European Society of Cardiology Syncope Guidelines at the Emergency Department: A nationwide qualitative study. Int J Cardiol 2021; 333:167-173. [PMID: 33662482 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2021.02.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Syncope care is often fragmented and inefficient. Structuring syncope care through implementation of guidelines and Syncope Units has been shown to improve diagnostic yield, reduce costs and improve quality of life. We implemented the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) 2018 syncope guidelines at the Emergency Departments (ED) and established Syncope Units in five Dutch hospitals. We evaluated the implementation process by identifying factors that hinder ('barriers') and facilitate ('facilitators') the implementation. METHODS AND RESULTS We conducted, recorded and transcribed semi-structured interviews with 19 specialists and residents involved in syncope care from neurology, cardiology, internal medicine and emergency medicine. Two researchers independently classified the reported barriers and facilitators, according to the framework of qualitative research (Flottorp), which distinguished several separate fields ('levels'). Software package Atlas.ti was used for analysis. We identified 31 barriers and 22 facilitators. Most barriers occurred on the level of the individual health care professional (e.g. inexperienced residents having to work with the guideline at the ED) and the organizational context (e.g. specialists not relinquishing preceding procedures). Participants reported most facilitators at the level of innovation (e.g. structured work-flow at the ED). The multidisciplinary Syncope Unit was welcomed as useful solution to a perceived need in clinical practice. CONCLUSION Implementing ESC syncope guidelines at the ED and establishing Syncope Units facilitated a structured multidisciplinary work-up for syncope patients. Most identified barriers related to the individual health care professional and the organizational context. Future implementation of the multidisciplinary guideline should be tailored to address these barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ghariq
- Dept of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - L van Bodegom-Vos
- Dept of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - M Brignole
- Faint & Fall programme, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Ospedale San Luca, Milan, Italy
| | - S Y G Peeters
- Dept of Emergency Medicine, Flevo Hospital, Almere, the Netherlands
| | - B de Groot
- Dept of Emergency Medicine, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - E C A Kaal
- Dept of Neurology, Maasstad Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M E W Hemels
- Dept of Cardiology, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, the Netherlands; Dept of Cardiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - F J de Lange
- Dept of Clinical and Experimental Cardiology, Heart Centre, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences Amsterdam University Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - J G van Dijk
- Dept of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - R D Thijs
- Dept of Neurology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands; Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland, Heemstede, the Netherlands.
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Zheng Q, Tang Q, Wang ZL, Li Z. Self-powered cardiovascular electronic devices and systems. Nat Rev Cardiol 2020; 18:7-21. [PMID: 32895536 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-020-0426-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular electronic devices have enormous benefits for health and quality of life but the long-term operation of these implantable and wearable devices remains a huge challenge owing to the limited life of batteries, which increases the risk of device failure and causes uncertainty among patients. A possible approach to overcoming the challenge of limited battery life is to harvest energy from the body and its ambient environment, including biomechanical, solar, thermal and biochemical energy, so that the devices can be self-powered. This strategy could allow the development of advanced features for cardiovascular electronic devices, such as extended life, miniaturization to improve comfort and conformability, and functions that integrate with real-time data transmission, mobile data processing and smart power utilization. In this Review, we present an update on self-powered cardiovascular implantable electronic devices and wearable active sensors. We summarize the existing self-powered technologies and their fundamental features. We then review the current applications of self-powered electronic devices in the cardiovascular field, which have two main goals. The first is to harvest energy from the body as a sustainable power source for cardiovascular electronic devices, such as cardiac pacemakers. The second is to use self-powered devices with low power consumption and high performance as active sensors to monitor physiological signals (for example, for active endocardial monitoring). Finally, we present the current challenges and future perspectives for the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zheng
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qizhu Tang
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhong Lin Wang
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. .,School of Materials Science and Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Zhou Li
- CAS Center for Excellence in Nanoscience, Beijing Key Laboratory of Micro-Nano Energy and Sensor, Beijing Institute of Nanoenergy and Nanosystems, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China. .,School of Nanoscience and Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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Tran DT, Sheldon RS, Kaul P, Sandhu RK. The Current and Future Hospitalization Cost Burden of Syncope in Canada. CJC Open 2020; 2:222-228. [PMID: 32695972 PMCID: PMC7365814 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2020.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Single-center studies have shown the high costs associated with the hospital evaluation of syncope. National cost estimates for syncope-related hospitalizations are sparse, and none exist in Canada. METHODS The Canadian Institute for Health Information Discharge Abstract Database was used to identify acute care hospitalizations with a primary diagnosis of syncope between fiscal years (FY) 2004 and 2015 in all provinces and territories (except Quebec). We used multiple linear regression to calculate the trends in prevalence of hospital admissions and generalized linear regression to estimate the costs of a hospitalization. The syncope hospitalization rate and the cost per hospitalization in Quebec were assumed to be the average of the rest of the country. The future hospitalization cost burden of syncope was projected to 2030. RESULTS There were 128,263 hospitalizations for a primary diagnosis of syncope over the 10-year study period, resulting in a total cost of $619.9 million (Canadian). An estimate of 41,044 syncope hospitalizations occurred in Quebec, costing $198.7 million. The total hospitalization cost of syncope in Canada was estimated at $818.5 million. The annual costs of syncope hospitalizations increased from $66.6 to $68.5 million between FY2004 and FY2015, respectively, and are projected to increase to $87.1 million in 2030. CONCLUSION Hospitalization costs for syncope in Canada are high and rising. Research is needed to identify opportunities to deliver more efficient and cost-effective care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dat T. Tran
- Institute of Health Economics, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Canadian VIGOUR Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert S. Sheldon
- Division of Cardiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Padma Kaul
- Canadian VIGOUR Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Division of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Roopinder K. Sandhu
- Canadian VIGOUR Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Division of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Ammar H, Ohri C, Hajouli S, Kulkarni S, Tefera E, Fouda R, Govindu R. Prevalence and Predictors of Pulmonary Embolism in Hospitalized Patients with Syncope. South Med J 2019; 112:421-427. [PMID: 31375838 DOI: 10.14423/smj.0000000000001009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Approximately one in six patients hospitalized with syncope have pulmonary embolism (PE), according to the PE in Syncope Italian Trial study. Subsequent studies using administrative data have reported a PE prevalence of <3%. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and predictors of PE in hospitalized patients with syncope. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients who were hospitalized in the MedStar Washington Hospital Center between May 1, 2015 and June 30, 2017 with deep venous thrombosis, PE, and syncope. Only patients who presented to the emergency department with syncope were included in the final analysis. PE was diagnosed by either positive computed tomographic angiography or a high-probability ventilation-perfusion scan. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to assess the associations between clinical variables and the diagnosis of PE in patients with syncope. RESULTS Of the 408 patients hospitalized with syncope (mean age, 67.5 years; 51% men [N = 208]), 25 (6%) had a diagnosis of PE. Elevated troponin levels (odds ratio 6.6, 95% confidence interval 1.9-22.9) and a dilated right ventricle on echocardiogram (odds ratio 6.9, 95% confidence interval 2.0-23.6) were independently associated with the diagnosis of PE. Age, active cancer, and history of deep venous thrombosis were not associated with the diagnosis of PE. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of PE in this study is approximately one-third of the reported prevalence in the PE in Syncope Italian Trial study and almost three times the value reported in administrative data-based studies. PE should be suspected in patients with syncope and elevated troponin levels or a dilated right ventricle on echocardiogram.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussam Ammar
- From the Internal Medicine Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, United Kingdom, and the Internal Medicine Department, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston
| | - Chaand Ohri
- From the Internal Medicine Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, United Kingdom, and the Internal Medicine Department, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston
| | - Said Hajouli
- From the Internal Medicine Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, United Kingdom, and the Internal Medicine Department, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston
| | - Shaunak Kulkarni
- From the Internal Medicine Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, United Kingdom, and the Internal Medicine Department, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston
| | - Eshetu Tefera
- From the Internal Medicine Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, United Kingdom, and the Internal Medicine Department, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston
| | - Ragai Fouda
- From the Internal Medicine Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, United Kingdom, and the Internal Medicine Department, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston
| | - Rukma Govindu
- From the Internal Medicine Department, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, MedStar Health Research Institute, Hyattsville, Maryland, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, Nuneaton, United Kingdom, and the Internal Medicine Department, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston
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Qian XL, Pan YS, Chen JJ, Jiang QQ, Huang D, Li JB. The value of multidisciplinary team in syncope clinic for the effective diagnosis of complex syncope. PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY: PACE 2019; 42:821-827. [PMID: 31004502 DOI: 10.1111/pace.13703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syncope is a perplexing challenge that often receives thorough evaluation, yet the diagnosis remains unclear. Usually, the emergency department is the first point at which patients present with syncope. However, diverse medical factors, including low diagnostic rates and inconsistent management by doctors, add to healthcare costs and delay diagnosis for syncope patients. METHODS Patients who had been to the emergency department at least once but were not given a clear diagnosis of syncope were recruited into our study at the time they visited syncope clinic staffed by a multidisciplinary team. Complete medical histories and clinical examinations were conducted by both experienced cardiologists and neurologists. If patients were not given a conclusive diagnosis at the syncope clinic on the basis of outpatient examinations, they were admitted for further evaluation. RESULTS A total of 209 consecutive patients claiming "syncope" visited the syncope clinic, yet only 167 patients were formally diagnosed with syncope. For these 167 patients, the mean age was 55.93 ± 17.40 years old, and 41.3% were male. The proportions of cardiac syncope, reflex syncope, orthostatic hypotension (OH), and syncope of uncertain etiology were 19.8%, 64.1%, 7.8%, and 8.4%, respectively. The diagnostic rate was 91.6%, and the hospitalization rate was 23.4%. Patients with reflex syncope and OH were younger than patients with cardiac syncope. Cardiac syncope tends to occur more frequently in males, while reflex syncope is more likely in females. CONCLUSIONS The cooperation of professional cardiologists and neurologists will play an important role in improving diagnostic rates, lowering admission rates, and reducing medical costs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Lin Qian
- Heart Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Ye-Sheng Pan
- Heart Center, Tongji University Affiliated Oriental Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jing-Jiong Chen
- Neurology, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Qing-Qing Jiang
- Neurology, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Dong Huang
- Heart Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
| | - Jing-Bo Li
- Heart Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, P. R. China
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Use of a Pediatric Syncope Unit Improves Diagnosis and Lowers Costs: A Hospital-Based Experience. J Pediatr 2018; 201:184-189.e2. [PMID: 29961647 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.05.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Revised: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the effect of a dedicated pediatric syncope unit on the diagnostic and therapeutic management of children with suspected syncope. We also evaluated the effectiveness of the pediatric syncope unit model in decreasing unnecessary tests and hospitalizations, minimizing social costs, and improving diagnostic yield. STUDY DESIGN This single-center cohort observational, prospective study enrolled 2278 consecutive children referred to Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital from 2012 to 2017. Characteristics of the study population, number and type of admission examinations, and diagnostic findings before the pediatric syncope unit was implemented (2012-2013) and after the pediatric syncope unit was implemented (2014-2015 and 2016-2017) were compared. RESULTS The proportion of undefined syncope, number of unnecessary diagnostic tests performed, and number of hospital stay days decreased significantly (P < .0001), with an overall decrease in costs. A multivariable logistic regression analysis, adjusted for confounding variables (age, sex, number of diagnostic tests), the period after pediatric syncope unit (2016-2017) resulted as the best independent predictor of effectiveness for a defined diagnosis of syncope (P < .0001). CONCLUSIONS Pediatric syncope unit organization with fast-tracking access more appropriate diagnostic tests is effective in terms of accuracy of diagnostic yield and reduction of costs.
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Brignole M, Moya A, de Lange FJ, Deharo JC, Elliott PM, Fanciulli A, Fedorowski A, Furlan R, Kenny RA, Martín A, Probst V, Reed MJ, Rice CP, Sutton R, Ungar A, van Dijk JG. 2018 ESC Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of syncope. Eur Heart J 2018; 39:1883-1948. [PMID: 29562304 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 990] [Impact Index Per Article: 165.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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12
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Pournazari P, Oqab Z, Sheldon R. Diagnostic Value of Neurological Studies in Diagnosing Syncope: A Systematic Review. Can J Cardiol 2017; 33:1604-1610. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2017.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 04/09/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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13
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Sandhu RK, Tran DT, Sheldon RS, Kaul P. A Population-Based Cohort Study Evaluating Outcomes and Costs for Syncope Presentations to the Emergency Department. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2017; 4:265-273. [PMID: 29749948 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Revised: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to examine outcomes and costs of patients with syncope admitted and discharged from the emergency department (ED). BACKGROUND ED visits for syncope are common, yet the impact on health care utilization is relatively unknown. METHODS A total of 51,831 consecutive patients presented to the ED with a primary diagnosis of syncope (International Classification of Diseases-9 code 780.2 and International Classification of Diseases-10 code R55) in Alberta, Canada from 2006 to 2014. Outcomes included 30-day syncope ED and hospital readmissions; 30-day and 1-year mortality; and annual inpatient, outpatient, physician, and drug costs, cumulative. RESULTS Of adults presenting to the ED, 6.6% were hospitalized and discharged with a primary diagnosis of syncope (Cohort 1), 8.7% were hospitalized and discharged with a primary diagnosis other than syncope (Cohort 2), and 84.7% were discharged home with a syncope diagnosis (Cohort 3). The 30-day ED revisits for syncope varied from 1.2% (Cohort 2) to 2.4% (Cohort 1) (p < 0.001), and readmission rates were <1% among cohorts. Short- and long-term mortality rates were highest for Cohort 2 and lowest for Cohort 3 (30-day mortality: Cohort 1 of 1.2%, Cohort 2 of 5.2%, Cohort 3 of 0.4%; p < 0.001) (1-year mortality: Cohort 1 of 9.2%, Cohort 2 of 17.7%, Cohort 3 of 3.0%; p < 0.001). Total cost of syncope presentations was $530.6 million (Cohort 1: $75.3 million; $29,519/patient, Cohort 2: $138.1 million; $42,042/patient, Cohort 3: $317.3 million; $9,963/patient; p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Most patients with syncope presenting to the ED were discharged and had a favorable prognosis but overall costs were high compared with patients hospitalized. Further research is needed for cost-saving strategies across all cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roopinder K Sandhu
- Division of Cardiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Dat T Tran
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Canadian VIGOUR Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert S Sheldon
- Division of Cardiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Padma Kaul
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada; Canadian VIGOUR Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, Cohen MI, Forman DE, Goldberger ZD, Grubb BP, Hamdan MH, Krahn AD, Link MS, Olshansky B, Raj SR, Sandhu RK, Sorajja D, Sun BC, Yancy CW. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS Guideline for the Evaluation and Management of Patients With Syncope: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. Circulation 2017; 136:e60-e122. [DOI: 10.1161/cir.0000000000000499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Win-Kuang Shen
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | | | - David G. Benditt
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Mitchell I. Cohen
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Daniel E. Forman
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Zachary D. Goldberger
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Blair P. Grubb
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Mohamed H. Hamdan
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Andrew D. Krahn
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Mark S. Link
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Brian Olshansky
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Satish R. Raj
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Roopinder Kaur Sandhu
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Dan Sorajja
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Benjamin C. Sun
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
| | - Clyde W. Yancy
- Writing committee members are required to recuse themselves from voting on sections to which their specific relationships with industry may apply; see Appendix 1 for detailed information. ACC/AHA Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines Liaison. ACC/AHA Representative. HRS Representative. ACEP and SAEM Joint Representative. ACC/AHA Task Force on Performance Measures Liaison
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15
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16
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Respuesta. Med Clin (Barc) 2017; 148:480. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2017.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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17
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Shen WK, Sheldon RS, Benditt DG, Cohen MI, Forman DE, Goldberger ZD, Grubb BP, Hamdan MH, Krahn AD, Link MS, Olshansky B, Raj SR, Sandhu RK, Sorajja D, Sun BC, Yancy CW. 2017 ACC/AHA/HRS guideline for the evaluation and management of patients with syncope: A report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines and the Heart Rhythm Society. Heart Rhythm 2017; 14:e155-e217. [PMID: 28286247 DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2017.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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18
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Kenny RA, Brignole M, Dan GA, Deharo JC, van Dijk JG, Doherty C, Hamdan M, Moya A, Parry SW, Sutton R, Ungar A, Wieling W. Syncope Unit: rationale and requirement--the European Heart Rhythm Association position statement endorsed by the Heart Rhythm Society. Europace 2015; 17:1325-40. [PMID: 26108809 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euv115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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19
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20
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Martens L, Goode G, Wold JFH, Beck L, Martin G, Perings C, Stolt P, Baggerman L. Structured syncope care pathways based on lean six sigma methodology optimises resource use with shorter time to diagnosis and increased diagnostic yield. PLoS One 2014; 9:e100208. [PMID: 24927475 PMCID: PMC4057404 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0100208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims To conduct a pilot study on the potential to optimise care pathways in syncope/Transient Loss of Consciousness management by using Lean Six Sigma methodology while maintaining compliance with ESC and/or NICE guidelines. Methods Five hospitals in four European countries took part. The Lean Six Sigma methodology consisted of 3 phases: 1) Assessment phase, in which baseline performance was mapped in each centre, processes were evaluated and a new operational model was developed with an improvement plan that included best practices and change management; 2) Improvement phase, in which optimisation pathways and standardised best practice tools and forms were developed and implemented. Staff were trained on new processes and change-management support provided; 3) Sustaining phase, which included support, refinement of tools and metrics. The impact of the implementation of new pathways was evaluated on number of tests performed, diagnostic yield, time to diagnosis and compliance with guidelines. One hospital with focus on geriatric populations was analysed separately from the other four. Results With the new pathways, there was a 59% reduction in the average time to diagnosis (p = 0.048) and a 75% increase in diagnostic yield (p = 0.007). There was a marked reduction in repetitions of diagnostic tests and improved prioritisation of indicated tests. Conclusions Applying a structured Lean Six Sigma based methodology to pathways for syncope management has the potential to improve time to diagnosis and diagnostic yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leon Martens
- Medtronic Hospital Solutions, Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Grahame Goode
- Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Blackpool, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lionel Beck
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Carémeau, Nîmes, France
| | - Georgina Martin
- Northern General/Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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21
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Wiener Z, Chiu DTW, Shapiro NI, Grossman SA. Substance abuse in emergency department patients with unexplained syncope. Intern Emerg Med 2014; 9:331-4. [PMID: 24297764 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-013-1026-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 11/15/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Current data suggest that up to 60 % of patients presenting to the ED with syncope leave the hospital without a defined etiology. Although a relationship between syncope and substance abuse has been described, no study to date has looked at the relationship between syncope of unknown etiology and substance abuse in patients presenting to the ED. The objective of the study was to determine whether a history of or current substance abuse is associated with an increased incidence of syncope of unknown etiology in ED patients. A prospective, observational, cohort study of consecutive ED patients aged ≥18 who presented with syncope was conducted between 6/03 and 7/06. Patients were queried in the ED and charts reviewed about a history of or current substance abuse. Substance abuse was defined as consumption of >2 alcoholic beverages nightly, repetitive use of any illicit substances, or documentation by the patient's physician of concern regarding suspected substance abuse. Data were analyzed using SAS with Chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests. We enrolled 518 patients who presented to the ED after syncope, 161 of whom did not have an identifiable etiology for their syncopal event. 62 patients had a history of, or current substance abuse. Among patients with a history of, or current substance abuse, 45 % had unexplained syncope, as opposed to 29 % of patients without such a history (p = 0.01). Our results suggest that prior and current substance abuse is associated with increased incidence of syncope of unknown etiology. Patients evaluated in the ED or even hospitalized with syncope of unknown etiology may benefit from substance abuse screening and possibly detoxification referral.
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22
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Recognizing Cardiac Syncope in Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department with Trauma. J Emerg Med 2014; 46:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2013.04.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2012] [Revised: 03/19/2013] [Accepted: 04/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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23
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Wiener DH. Achieving High-Value Cardiac Imaging: Challenges and Opportunities. J Am Soc Echocardiogr 2014; 27:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.echo.2013.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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24
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Sadri H, Winsor P. The effect of late adoption of Canadian innovations: a case for implantable cardiac monitors. Healthc Manage Forum 2014; 27:S46-S57. [PMID: 25046970 DOI: 10.1016/j.hcmf.2014.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Syncope is a sudden and generally momentary loss of consciousness, which can have serious adverse events. The outcomes of the syncope episode can vary from a fall to fatal accidents. Syncope has a major negative effect on the patient's health-related quality of life. The economic burden of syncope on healthcare systems is considerable. There are no clear diagnostic pathways for identifying the cause of syncope; patients can be admitted to hospital and undergo expensive and often repeated and inconclusive diagnostic tests. Implantable cardiac monitors have been available for more than a decade to help early diagnosis of syncope in unexplained cases. However, despite being a Canadian invention, the use of the implantable cardiac monitors has been suboptimal in the Canadian healthcare system. This study provides an overview of syncope, its management, and presents the estimated potential cost savings per diagnosis of systematic use of implantable cardiac monitors in Ontario.
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25
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Linker NJ, Voulgaraki D, Garutti C, Rieger G, Edvardsson N. Early versus delayed implantation of a loop recorder in patients with unexplained syncope — Effects on care pathway and diagnostic yield. Int J Cardiol 2013; 170:146-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2013.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2013] [Revised: 08/21/2013] [Accepted: 10/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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26
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Wiener Z, Shapiro NI, Chiu DTW, Grossman SA. The prevalence of psychiatric disease in emergency department patients with unexplained syncope. Intern Emerg Med 2013; 8:427-30. [PMID: 23645509 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-013-0946-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/20/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Current data suggest that up to 60 % of patients presenting to the emergency department with syncope leave the hospital without a defined etiology. Prior studies suggest a prevalence of psychiatric disease as high as 26 % in patients with syncope of unknown etiology. The objective of this study was to determine whether psychiatric disease is associated with an increased incidence of syncope of unknown etiology. Prospective, observational, cohort study of consecutive ED patients >18 presenting with syncope was conducted from 6/03 to 7/06. Patients were queried in the ED and charts reviewed for a history of psychiatric disease and use of psychiatric medication. Data were analyzed using SAS v9.2 with Fisher's exact tests. We enrolled 518 patients who presented to the ED after syncope, 161 (31 %) did not have an identifiable etiology for their syncopal event; 166 patients (32 %) had a history of or current psychiatric disease. Among men with psychiatric disease, 37 % had an unknown etiology of their syncopal event, compared to 23 % of men without psychiatric disease (p = 0.04). However, among women with syncope of unknown etiology, there was no significant difference between those with and without psychiatric disease (34.4 vs. 32.7 %) with p = 0.77. Our results suggest that men with psychiatric disease have an increased incidence of syncope of unknown etiology. Given this relationship, clinicians might consider screening for psychiatric disorders in syncopal patients when no clear etiology can be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zev Wiener
- Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA
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27
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Abstract
Syncope, a clinical syndrome, has many potential causes. The prognosis of a patient experiencing syncope varies from benign outcome to increased risk of mortality or sudden death, determined by the etiology of syncope and the presence of underlying disease. Because a definitive diagnosis often cannot be established immediately, hospital admission is frequently recommended as the "default" approach to ensure patient's safety and an expedited evaluation. Hospital care is costly while no studies have shown that clinical outcomes are improved by the in-patient practice approach. The syncope unit is an evolving practice model based on the hypothesis that a multidisciplinary team of physicians and allied staff with expertise in syncope management, working together and equipped with standard clinical tools could improve clinical outcomes. Preliminary data have demonstrated that a specialized syncope unit can improve diagnosis in a timely manner, reduce hospital admission and decrease the use of unnecessary diagnostic tests. In this review, models of syncope units in the emergency department, hospital and outpatient clinics from different practices in different countries are discussed. Similarities and differences of these syncope units are compared. Outcomes and endpoints from these studies are summarized. Developing a syncope unit with a standardized protocol applicable to most practice settings would be an ultimate goal for clinicians and investigators who have interest, expertise, and commitment to improve care for this large patient population.
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Krahn AD, Andrade JG, Deyell MW. Selecting appropriate diagnostic tools for evaluating the patient with syncope/collapse. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2013; 55:402-9. [PMID: 23472778 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2012.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The investigation of syncope is challenging and physicians have an ever-increasing array of diagnostic tools at their disposal. There are two essential goals that drive investigation: risk stratification and identification of etiology. In this review, we outline our approach while providing a synopsis of the available supportive evidence. The key to syncope is in the story as told by the patient and a bystander, since this drives both risk assessment and diagnostic testing. All patients should initially be evaluated with a systematic history and physical examination as well as an ECG. The initial evaluation provides an estimation of risk and directs whether inpatient or outpatient evaluation is appropriate. In a substantial proportion of patients, the etiology will be evident after initial evaluation and no further investigation is required. In the remaining, targeted use of additional investigations in the form of cardiac imaging, provocative testing and/or ambulatory ECG monitoring should be performed. A thoughtful and systematic approach to the investigation of syncope optimizes the diagnostic yield but also ensures efficient usage of limited health care resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew D Krahn
- Division of Cardiology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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Sutton R, Benditt DG. Epidemiology and economic impact of cardiac syncope in western countries. Future Cardiol 2012; 8:467-72. [PMID: 22642635 DOI: 10.2217/fca.12.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This article updates our current understanding of the epidemiology and economic impact of syncope in western countries. Unfortunately, both of these aspects of syncope are inadequately understood; in part the problem is due to the difficulty in public health data separating 'true syncope' from conditions that cause other forms of transient loss of consciousness. However, in certain respects, the epidemiology of syncope is becoming clearer. Similarly, we have come to understand that the economic impact of syncope is substantial and is much larger than is necessary, primarily because management, especially excessive hospitalization, often remains suboptimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Sutton
- Imperial College London, Imperial Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK; ICCH Building, 59-61 North Wharf Road, London W2 1LA, UK.
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Krahn AD, Morillo CA, Kus T, Manns B, Rose S, Brignole M, Sheldon RS. Empiric pacemaker compared with a monitoring strategy in patients with syncope and bifascicular conduction block--rationale and design of the Syncope: Pacing or Recording in ThE Later Years (SPRITELY) study. Europace 2012; 14:1044-8. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/eus005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Marrison V, Fletcher A, Parry S. The older patient with syncope: Practicalities and controversies. Int J Cardiol 2012; 155:9-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2010.10.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2010] [Accepted: 10/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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Planas Comes F, San Vicente L, Planas Ayma F, Viles J, Planas A, Serrado A, Kaplinsky E, Altimira M. Eficacia de un protocolo para el diagnóstico y tratamiento del síncope en una población no seleccionada. Med Clin (Barc) 2012; 138:7-10. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medcli.2010.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2010] [Revised: 12/20/2010] [Accepted: 12/23/2010] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Davis S, Westby M, Pitcher D, Petkar S. Implantable loop recorders are cost-effective when used to investigate transient loss of consciousness which is either suspected to be arrhythmic or remains unexplained. Europace 2011; 14:402-9. [DOI: 10.1093/europace/eur343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Sheldon RS, Morillo CA, Krahn AD, O'Neill B, Thiruganasambandamoorthy V, Parkash R, Talajic M, Tu JV, Seifer C, Johnstone D, Leather R. Standardized Approaches to the Investigation of Syncope: Canadian Cardiovascular Society Position Paper. Can J Cardiol 2011; 27:246-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2010.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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SHELDON ROBERT, HERSI AHMAD, RITCHIE DEBBIE, KOSHMAN MARYLOU, ROSE SARAH. Syncope and Structural Heart Disease: Historical Criteria for Vasovagal Syncope and Ventricular Tachycardia. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2010; 21:1358-64. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8167.2010.01835.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Edvardsson N, Frykman V, van Mechelen R, Mitro P, Mohii-Oskarsson A, Pasquié JL, Ramanna H, Schwertfeger F, Ventura R, Voulgaraki D, Garutti C, Stolt P, Linker NJ. Use of an implantable loop recorder to increase the diagnostic yield in unexplained syncope: results from the PICTURE registry. Europace 2010; 13:262-9. [PMID: 21097478 PMCID: PMC3024039 DOI: 10.1093/europace/euq418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims To collect information on the use of the Reveal implantable loop recorder (ILR) in the patient care pathway and to investigate its effectiveness in the diagnosis of unexplained recurrent syncope in everyday clinical practice. Methods and results Prospective, multicentre, observational study conducted in 2006–2009 in 10 European countries and Israel. Eligible patients had recurrent unexplained syncope or pre-syncope. Subjects received a Reveal Plus, DX or XT. Follow up was until the first recurrence of a syncopal event leading to a diagnosis or for ≥1 year. In the course of the study, patients were evaluated by an average of three different specialists for management of their syncope and underwent a median of 13 tests (range 9–20). Significant physical trauma had been experienced in association with a syncopal episode by 36% of patients. Average follow-up time after ILR implant was 10 ± 6 months. Follow-up visit data were available for 570 subjects. The percentages of patients with recurrence of syncope were 19, 26, and 36% after 3, 6, and 12 months, respectively. Of 218 events within the study, ILR-guided diagnosis was obtained in 170 cases (78%), of which 128 (75%) were cardiac. Conclusion A large number of diagnostic tests were undertaken in patients with unexplained syncope without providing conclusive data. In contrast, the ILR revealed or contributed to establishing the mechanism of syncope in the vast majority of patients. The findings support the recommendation in current guidelines that an ILR should be implanted early rather than late in the evaluation of unexplained syncope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Edvardsson
- Division of Cardiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at Sahlgrenska University Hospital, S-413 45 Göteborg, Sweden.
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McCarthy F, De Bhladraithe S, Rice C, McMahon CG, Geary U, Plunkett PK, Crean P, Murphy R, Foley B, Mulvihill N, Kenny RA, Cunningham CJ. Resource utilisation for syncope presenting to an acute hospital Emergency Department. Ir J Med Sci 2010; 179:551-5. [PMID: 20552293 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-010-0497-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2009] [Accepted: 05/04/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syncope is a common clinical problem accounting for up to 6% of hospital admissions. Little is known about resource utilisation for patients admitted for syncope management in Ireland. AIM To determine the utilisation of resources for patients admitted for syncope management. METHODS Single centre observational case series of consecutive adult patients presenting to an acute hospital Emergency Department with syncope over a 5-month period. RESULTS Two-hundred and fourteen of 18,898 patients (1.1%) had a syncopal episode, 110 (51.4%) of whom were admitted. Mean length of stay was 6.9 days. Sixty-four of these admissions were deemed unnecessary by retrospective review when compared to ESC guidelines. Eighty-five (77.3%) admitted patients had cardiac investigations and 56 (51%) had brain imaging performed. CONCLUSIONS Syncope places a large demand on overstretched hospital resources. Most cases can be managed safely as an outpatient and to facilitate this, hospitals should develop outpatient Syncope Management Units.
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Affiliation(s)
- F McCarthy
- Department of Medicine for the Elderly, St James's Hospital, James's Street, Dublin, Ireland.
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Mendu ML, McAvay G, Lampert R, Stoehr J, Tinetti ME. Yield of diagnostic tests in evaluating syncopal episodes in older patients. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 169:1299-305. [PMID: 19636031 DOI: 10.1001/archinternmed.2009.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 122] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Syncopal episodes are common among older adults; etiologies range from benign to life threatening. We determined the frequency, yield, and costs of tests obtained to evaluate older persons with syncope. We also calculated the cost per test yield and determined whether the San Francisco syncope rule (SFSR) improved test yield. METHODS Review of 2106 consecutive patients 65 years or older admitted following a syncopal episode. RESULTS Electrocardiograms (in 99% of admissions), telemetry (in 95%), cardiac enzyme tests (in 95%), and head computed tomographic (CT) scans (in 63%) were the most frequently obtained tests. Results from cardiac enzymes tests, CT scans, echocardiography, carotid ultrasonography, and electroencephalography all affected diagnosis or management in less than 5% of cases and helped determine the etiology of syncope less than 2% of the time. Postural blood pressure (BP) recording, performed in only 38% of episodes, had the highest yield with respect to affecting diagnosis (18%-26%) or management (25%-30%) and determining etiology of the syncopal episode (15%-21%). The cost per test affecting diagnosis or management was highest for electroencephalography ($32 973), CT scans ($24 881), and cardiac enzymes test ($22 397) and lowest for postural BP recording ($17-$20). The yields and costs for cardiac tests were better among patients meeting, vs those not meeting, the SFSR. For example, the cost per cardiac enzymes test affecting diagnosis or management was $10 331 in those meeting, vs $111 518 in those not meeting, the SFSR. CONCLUSIONS Many unnecessary tests are obtained to evaluate syncope. Selecting tests based on history and examination and prioritizing less expensive and higher yield tests would ensure a more informed and cost-effective approach to evaluating older patients with syncope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallika L Mendu
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520-8025, USA
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Zhang Q, Du J, Wang C, Du Z, Wang L, Tang C. The diagnostic protocol in children and adolescents with syncope: a multi-centre prospective study. Acta Paediatr 2009; 98:879-84. [PMID: 19183119 DOI: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.2008.01195.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM The appropriate diagnostic protocol for children with syncope has not been well established. A diagnostic protocol was developed and prospectively implemented to improve the diagnostic performance of paediatricians. METHODS The study population included 474 consecutive patients (range 6-17 years) presenting with a syncopal spell in one of the five participating hospitals of China. In step 1, all patients underwent initial evaluation for history, physical examination, standing test and standard electrocardiography (ECG). In step 2, priority was given to cardiographic tests for possibly cardiogenic syncope, or electroencephalographic examination and brain imaging for suspected neurological syncope, or psychiatric tests for suspected psychiatric syncope. Patients with unexplained syncope underwent head-up tilt testing (HUT). RESULTS The initial evaluation gave a definite diagnosis in 59 (12.4%) and possible diagnosis in 54 of the 474 patients. Further testing gave a definite diagnosis for 326 patients (69.7%). After the entire diagnostic protocol, definite diagnosis was established in 385 patients (81.1%). Autonomic-mediated reflex syncope (AMS) accounted for 73.0% of cases. The average cost of diagnostic results per patient was RMB 1030.24 +/- 150.09 ($118.42 +/- 17.25). CONCLUSION The use of a simplified diagnostic protocol for children and adolescents with syncope improves diagnostic yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingyou Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, China
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IGLESIAS JUANF, GRAF DENIS, FORCLAZ ANDREI, SCHLAEPFER JUERG, FROMER MARTIN, PRUVOT ETIENNE. Stepwise Evaluation of Unexplained Syncope in a Large Ambulatory Population. PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY: PACE 2009; 32 Suppl 1:S202-6. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8159.2008.02291.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Petkar S, Bell W, Rice N, Iddon P, Cooper P, Fitzpatrick A. Rationale for a rapid access blackouts triage clinic. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.12968/bjca.2008.3.10.31223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Paul Cooper
- Greater Manchester Centre for Neurosciences, Hope Hospital, Salford
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Sarasin FP, Pruvot E, Louis-Simonet M, Hügli OW, Sztajzel JM, Schläpfer J, Herrera M, Graz J, Berchier C, Mischler C, Yersin B. Stepwise evaluation of syncope: A prospective population-based controlled study. Int J Cardiol 2008; 127:103-11. [PMID: 17698219 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2007.04.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2006] [Revised: 04/17/2007] [Accepted: 04/23/2007] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evaluation of syncope remains often unstructured. The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of a standardized protocol designed to improve the diagnosis of syncope. METHODS Consecutive patients with syncope presenting to the emergency departments of two primary and tertiary care hospitals over a period of 18 months underwent a two-phase evaluation including: 1) noninvasive assessment (phase I); and 2) specialized tests (phase II), if syncope remained unexplained after phase I. During phase II, the evaluation strategy was alternately left to physicians in charge of patients (control), or guided by a standardized protocol relying on cardiac status and frequency of events (intervention). The primary outcomes were the diagnostic yield of each phase, and the impact of the intervention (phase II) measured by multivariable analysis. RESULTS Among 1725 patients with syncope, 1579 (92%) entered phase I which permitted to establish a diagnosis in 1061 (67%) of them, including mainly reflex causes and orthostatic hypotension. Five-hundred-eighteen patients (33%) were considered as having unexplained syncope and 363 (70%) entered phase II. A cause for syncope was found in 67 (38%) of 174 patients during intervention periods, compared to 18 (9%) of 189 during control (p<0.001). Compared to control periods, intervention permitted diagnosing more cardiac (8%, vs 3%, p=0.04) and reflex syncope (25% vs 6%, p<0.001), and increased the odds of identifying a cause for syncope by a factor of 4.5 (95% CI: 2.6-8.7, p<0.001). Overall, adding the diagnostic yield obtained during phase I and phase II (intervention periods) permitted establishing the cause of syncope in 76% of patients. CONCLUSION Application of a standardized diagnostic protocol in patients with syncope improved the likelihood of identifying a cause for this symptom. Future trials should assess the efficacy of diagnosis-specific therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- François P Sarasin
- Emergency Center, Hopital Cantonal, University of Geneva Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland.
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Tan MP, Parry SW. Vasovagal Syncope in the Older Patient. J Am Coll Cardiol 2008; 51:599-606. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2007.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2007] [Revised: 11/08/2007] [Accepted: 11/12/2007] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Graf D, Schlaepfer J, Gollut E, van Melle G, Mischler C, Fromer M, Kappenberger L, Pruvot E. Predictive models of syncope causes in an outpatient clinic. Int J Cardiol 2008; 123:249-56. [PMID: 17397948 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2006.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2006] [Revised: 11/03/2006] [Accepted: 12/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The investigation of unexplained syncope remains a challenging clinical problem. In the present study we sought to evaluate the diagnostic value of a standardized work-up focusing on non invasive tests in patients with unexplained syncope referred to a syncope clinic, and whether certain combinations of clinical parameters are characteristic of rhythmic and reflex causes of syncope. METHODS AND RESULTS 317 consecutive patients underwent a standardized work-up including a 12-lead ECG, physical examination, detailed history with screening for syncope-related symptoms using a structured questionnaire followed by carotid sinus massage (CSM), and head-up tilt test. Invasive testings including an electrophysiological study and implantation of a loop recorder were only performed in those with structural heart disease or traumatic syncope. Our work-up identified an etiology in 81% of the patients. Importantly, three quarters of the causes were established non invasively combining head-up tilt test, CSM and hyperventilation testing. Invasive tests yielded an additional 7% of diagnoses. Logistic analysis identified age and number of significant prodromes as the only predictive factors of rhythmic syncope. The same two factors, in addition to the duration of the ECG P-wave, were also predictive of vasovagal and psychogenic syncope. These factors, optimally combined in predictive models, showed a high negative and a modest positive predictive value. CONCLUSION A standardized work-up focusing on non invasive tests allows to establish more than three quarters of syncope causes. Predictive models based on simple clinical parameters may help to distinguish between rhythmic and other causes of syncope.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Graf
- Service de Cardiologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, BH07, CHUV, Rue du Bugnon 46, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland
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Rodríguez-Entem F, González-Enríquez S, Olalla-Antolín JJ, Cobo-Belaustegui M, Expósito-García V, Llano-Cardenal M, Casanova-Martín MA, Ruisánchez C. Manejo del síncope en el servicio de urgencias sin ingreso hospitalario: utilidad de un protocolo coordinado con la unidad de arritmias. Rev Esp Cardiol 2008. [DOI: 10.1157/13114953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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van Dijk N, Boer KR, Colman N, Bakker A, Stam J, van Grieken JJM, Wilde AAM, Linzer M, Reitsma JB, Wieling W. High diagnostic yield and accuracy of history, physical examination, and ECG in patients with transient loss of consciousness in FAST: the Fainting Assessment study. J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol 2007; 19:48-55. [PMID: 17916139 DOI: 10.1111/j.1540-8167.2007.00984.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transient loss of consciousness (TLOC) is a common clinical problem. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the yield and accuracy of the initial evaluation, consisting of standardized history, physical examination, and ECG performed by attending physicians in patients with TLOC. METHODS AND RESULTS Five hundred and three adult patients (mean age 53 +/- 19; 56% male) presenting with TLOC to the Academic Medical Center Amsterdam between February 2000 and May 2002 were included in this study. After initial evaluation, the physician made a certain, a highly likely (>80% certain), or no initial diagnosis. Initially undiagnosed patients received additional cardiological testing, additional history taking, and autonomic function tests. After 2 years of follow-up, an expert committee determined the final diagnoses. Two-year follow-up was obtained in 99% of the patients. The yield of certain diagnoses after the initial evaluation was 24%, increasing to 63% after including the highly likely diagnoses. The diagnostic accuracy of the initial certain diagnoses was 93% (95% CI 87-97%), decreasing to 88% (95% CI 84-91%) after inclusion of the initial highly likely diagnoses. CONCLUSION Attending physicians can make a diagnosis based on initial evaluation in 63% of patients with TLOC, with an overall diagnostic accuracy of 88%. The use of additional testing, beyond history, physical examination, and ECG can be avoided in many patients with TLOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nynke van Dijk
- Departments of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam (AMC-UvA), Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In the absence of an established critical pathway to evaluate patients with syncope presenting to the emergency department, this review is timely because of new clinical evidences supporting a specialized syncope management unit in the emergency department, and it is relevant because of the potential impact on a very large and heterogeneous population. RECENT FINDINGS Three observational syncope studies from Italy showed a high degree of variability in practice patterns, diagnostic yields, and lengths of hospital stay. An appropriate and efficacious syncope management pathway in the emergency department remains far from established. In a randomized trial from a tertiary care hospital in the US, the SEEDS study demonstrated that a designated 'syncope unit' in the emergency department, with a multidisciplinary effort and appropriate resources, significantly improved diagnostic yield, reduced hospital admission and total length of hospital stay in intermediate-risk patients. Long-term follow-up showed that reduced hospital stay did not negatively affect survival and recurrent syncope. SUMMARY Limited randomized trial data suggest a designated syncope unit in the emergency department holds promise to provide specialized and efficient care for patients with syncope. Additional data are needed to assess the general applicability of this critical pathway in community-based hospitals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Smars
- Department of Emergency Medicine and Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Brignole
- Department of Cardiology and Arrhythmologic Centre, Ospedali del Tigullio, 16033 Lavagna, Italy.
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Simoncini M, D’agostino E, Pernigotti L. Syncope: Is it a misunderstood syndrome? Arch Gerontol Geriatr 2007; 44 Suppl 1:371-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.archger.2007.01.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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