Changes in Arterial Access Site and Association With Mortality in the United Kingdom: Observations From a National Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Database

Temporal trends of in-hospital mortality and its determinants following percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with acute coronary syndrome in England and Wales: A population-based study between 2006 and 2021

BACKGROUND

There is limited data around drivers of changes in mortality over time. We aimed to examine the temporal changes in mortality and understand its determinants over time.

METHODS

743,149 PCI procedures for patients from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society (BCIS) database who were aged between 18 and 100 years and underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) for Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) in England and Wales between 2006 and 2021 were included. We decomposed the contributing factors to the difference in the observed mortality proportions between 2006 and 2021 using Fairlie decomposition method. Multiple imputation was used to address missing data.

RESULTS

Overall, there was an increase in the mortality proportion over time, from 1.7% (95% CI: 1.5% to 1.9%) in 2006 to 3.1% (95% CI: 3.0% to 3.2%) in 2021. 61.2% of this difference was explained by the variables included in the model. ACS subtypes (percentage contribution: 14.67%; 95% CI: 5.76% to 23.59%) and medical history (percentage contribution: 13.50%; 95% CI: 4.33% to 22.67%) were the strongest contributors to the difference in the observed mortality proportions between 2006 and 2021. Also, there were different drivers to mortality changes between different time periods. Specifically, ACS subtypes and severity of presentation were amongst the strongest contributors between 2006 and 2012 while access site and demographics were the strongest contributors between 2012 and 2021.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient factors and the move towards ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) PCI have driven the short-term mortality changes following PCI for ACS the most.

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

BACKGROUND

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

Estimating the cost-effectiveness and return on investment of the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry in Australia: a minimum threshold analysis

OBJECTIVES

We sought to establish the minimum level of clinical benefit attributable to the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (VCOR) for the registry to be cost-effective.

DESIGN

A modelled cost-effectiveness study of VCOR was conducted from the Australian healthcare system and societal perspectives.

SETTING

Observed deaths and costs attributed to coronary heart disease (CHD) over a 5-year period (2014-2018) were compared with deaths and costs arising from a hypothetical situation which assumed that VCOR did not exist. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and published sources were used to construct a decision analytic life table model to simulate the follow-up of Victorians aged ≥25 years for 5 years, or until death. The assumed contribution of VCOR to the proportional change in CHD mortality trend observed over the study period was varied to quantify the minimum level of clinical benefits required for the registry to be cost-effective. The marginal costs of VCOR operation and years of life saved (YoLS) were estimated.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

The return on investment (ROI) ratio and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER).

RESULTS

The minimum proportional change in CHD mortality attributed to VCOR required for the registry to be considered cost-effective was 0.125%. Assuming this clinical benefit, a net return of $A4.30 for every dollar invested in VCOR was estimated (ROI ratio over 5 years: 4.3 (95% CI 3.6 to 5.0)). The ICER estimated for VCOR was $A49 616 (95% CI $A42 228 to $A59 608) per YoLS. Sensitivity analyses found that the model was sensitive to the time horizon assumed and the extent of registry contribution to CHD mortality trends.

CONCLUSIONS

VCOR is likely cost-effective and represents a sound investment for the Victorian healthcare system. Our evaluation highlights the value of clinical quality registries in Australia.

Effect of Radial Artery Compression with a Novel Automatic Pressure-Controlled Radial Compression Device: A Short-Term Prospective Interventional Pilot Study

This study was conducted to design a novel radial compression device with the function of automatic pressure control and evaluate the feasibility and safety of this new technique. Patients who underwent transradial access (TRA) coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the First Hospital of Jiaxing between August 2021and October 2021 were prospectively enrolled in this pilot interventional study. The patients were grouped in a 1 : 1 ratio to receive compression with a novel device (the experimental group) or a conventional device without pressure control (the control group). The primary endpoint was the compression time, and the main secondary endpoints were rebleeding, upper-limb swelling, radial artery occlusion (RAO), and device-related pressure injury (DPI). Eighty-four patients were enrolled in this study. No significant differences were found in the baseline clinical characteristics between the two groups. Compared with the control group, the compression time in the experimental group was significantly reduced (207.4 ± 15.5 vs. 378.1 ± 19 min, p < 0.001). Besides, the rate of upper-limb swelling was also significantly lower in the novel device group (2.4% vs. 85.7%, p < 0.001), as well as the rate of DPI (19.05% vs. 100%, p = 0.005). Furthermore, the pain score in the experimental group was significantly lower than in the control group (0.79 ± 0.42 vs. 1.83 ± 0.58, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in the rate of rebleeding (7.1% vs. 14.3, p = 0.48) between the two groups. In addition, no RAO occurred in any of the groups. The novel automatic pressure-controlled radial compression device could reduce the hemostasis time and decrease the rate of adverse complications. It might be a promising and effective compression device in TRA coronary invasive procedures.

Temporal patterns, characteristics, and predictors of clinical outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention for stent thrombosis

BACKGROUND

There are limited data on the outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) following stent thrombosis (ST) and differences exist based on timing.

AIMS

Our aim was to study the rates of PCI procedures for an ST indication among all patients admitted for PCI at a national level and to compare their characteristics and procedural outcomes based on ST timing.

METHODS

All PCI procedures in England and Wales (2014-2020) were retrospectively analysed and stratified by the presence of ST into four groups: non-ST, early ST (0-30 days), late ST (>30-360 days), very late ST (>360 days). Multivariable logistic regression models were performed to assess the odds ratios (OR) of in-hospital MACCE (major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events, a composite of mortality, acute stroke and reinfarction) and mortality.

RESULTS

Overall, 7,923 (1.4%) procedures were for ST indication, most commonly for early ST (n=4,171; 52.6%), followed by very late ST (n=2,801; 35.4%) and late ST (n=951; 12.0%). The rate of PCI for ST declined between 2014 and 2020 (1.7 to 1.4%; p<0.001). Early ST was the only subgroup associated with increased odds of MACCE (OR 1.22, 95% CI: 1.05-1.41), all-cause mortality (OR 1.21, 95% CI: 1.07-1.36) and reinfarction (OR 2.48, 95% CI: 1.48-4.14), compared with non-ST indication. The odds of mortality were significantly reduced in ST patients with the use of intravascular imaging (OR 0.66, 95% CI: 0.48-0.92) and newer P2Y12 inhibitors (ticagrelor: OR 0.69, 95% CI: 0.49-0.95; prasugrel: OR 0.54, 95% CI: 0.30-0.96).

CONCLUSIONS

PCI for ST has declined in frequency over a 7-year period, with most procedures performed for early ST. Among the different times of ST onset, only early ST is associated with worse clinical outcomes after PCI. Routine use of intravascular imaging and newer P2Y12 inhibitors could further improve outcomes in this high-risk procedural group.

Impact of Intracoronary Imaging-Guided Percutaneous Coronary Intervention on Procedural Outcomes Among Complex Patient Groups

Background Intracoronary imaging (ICI) has been shown to improve survival after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Whether this prognostic benefit is sustained across different indications remains unclear. Methods and Results All PCI procedures performed in England and Wales between April, 2014 and March 31, 2020, were retrospectively analyzed. The association between ICI use and in-hospital major acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events; composite of all-cause mortality, stroke, and reinfarction and mortality was examined using multivariable logistic regression analysis for different imaging-recommended indications as set by European Association for Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions consensus. Of 555 398 PCI procedures, 10.8% (n=59 752) were ICI-guided. ICI use doubled between 2014 (7.8%) and 2020 (17.5%) and was highest in left main PCI (41.2%) and lowest in acute coronary syndrome (9%). Only specific European Association for Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions imaging-recommended indications were associated with reduced major acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events and mortality, including left main PCI (odds ratio [OR], 0.45 [95% CI, 0.39-0.52] and 0.41 [95% CI, 0.35-0.48], respectively), acute coronary syndrome (OR, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.70-0.82] and 0.70 [95% CI, 0.63-0.77]), and stent length >60 mm (OR, 0.75 [95% CI, 0.59-0.94] and 0.72 [95% CI, 0.54-0.95]). Stent thrombosis and renal failure were associated with lower mortality (OR, 0.69 [95% CI, 0.52-0.91]) and major acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (OR, 0.77 [95% CI, 0.60-0.99]), respectively. Conclusions ICI use has more than doubled over a 7-year period at a national level but remains low, with <1 in 5 procedures performed under ICI guidance. In-hospital survival was better with ICI-guided than angiography-guided PCI, albeit only for specific indications.

State-of-the-Art Endovascular Therapies for the Femoropopliteal Segment: Are We There Yet?

Peripheral arterial disease is an increasingly prevalent condition with significant associated morbidity, mortality, and health care expenditure. Endovascular interventions are appropriate for most patients with either ongoing symptoms of intermittent claudication despite lifestyle and medical optimization or chronic limb-threatening ischemia. The femoropopliteal segment is the most common arterial culprit responsible for claudication and the most commonly revascularized segment. Endovascular approaches to revascularization of the femoropopliteal segment are advancing with an evolving landscape of techniques for arterial access, device-based therapies, vessel preparation, and intraprocedural imaging. These advances have been marked by debate and controversy, notably related to the safety of paclitaxel-based devices and necessity of atherectomy. In this review, we provide a critical overview of the current evidence, practice patterns, emerging evidence, and technological advances for endovascular intervention of the femoropopliteal arterial segment.

Trends in Arterial Access Site Selection and Bleeding Outcomes Following Coronary Procedures, 2011-2018

BACKGROUND

Prior studies of radial access for cardiac catheterization have focused on early adopters of the technique, and some have described a risk/treatment paradox of low radial access use among high bleeding risk patients. This study aimed to determine (1) trends in radial access use over time, (2) if increasing use of radial access is driven by new invasive and interventional cardiologists (operators) or existing operators changing their practice, and (3) if increasing radial rates are associated with lower bleeding rates and elimination of the risk/treatment paradox.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study using data from the Clinical Assessment, Reporting, and Tracking Program, we calculated radial access rates and risk-adjusted postprocedural bleeding rates of patients undergoing diagnostic angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) between 2011 and 2018 in Veterans Affairs hospitals. We used separate bleeding risk models for diagnostic angiography and PCI and assessed temporal trends with the Kendall Tau-b test.

RESULTS

Among 253 179 diagnostic angiograms and 93 614 PCIs, radial access rates increased over time for both diagnostic (17.5%-60.4%; P<0.01)) and PCI procedures (14.0%-51.8%; P<0.01). Existing operators and new operators increased their use at similar rates, but new operators entered practice with higher baseline rates. Nearly all operators used radial access at least once in 2018. Overall adjusted rates of bleeding declined, a trend that was significant for diagnostic angiography (2.4%-1.4%, P=0.02) but not PCI (3.4%-2.5%, P=0.20). Femoral access patients had a higher predicted risk for bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

A steady rise in radial access for diagnostic angiography and PCI was driven by increasing use among existing operators and high use by new operators. While this was associated with decreasing bleeding rates, a risk/treatment paradox for access site selection persists; patients at higher bleeding risk were still more likely to receive femoral access.

The cost-effectiveness of radial access percutaneous coronary intervention: A propensity-score matched analysis of Victorian data

Background

Despite evidence of the comparative benefits of transradial access percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) over transfemoral access, its uptake remains highly varied across Australia. Few studies have explored the implications of the choice of access site during PCI from the perspective of the Australian healthcare setting. We, therefore, performed a cost‐effectiveness analysis of radial versus femoral access PCI.

Methods

Data from the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (VCOR) were used to inform our economic analyses. Patients treated through either radial or femoral access PCI were propensity score‐matched using the inverse probability weighted (IPW) method, and the incidence of major bleeding and all‐cause mortality in the cohort was used to inform an economic model comprising a hypothetical sample of 1000 patients. Costs and utility data were drawn from published sources. The economic evaluation adopted the perspective of the Australian healthcare system.

Results

Among a cohort of 1000 patients over 1 year, there were 19 fewer deaths, and six fewer episodes of nonfatal major bleeding in the radial group compared to the femoral group. Total cost savings attributed to radial access was AUD $1 214 688. Hence, from a health economic point of view, radial access PCI was dominant over femoral access PCI. Sensitivity analyses supported the robustness of these findings.

Conclusions

Radial access is associated with improved patient outcomes and considerably lower costs relative to femoral access PCI. Our findings support radial access being the preferred approach for PCI across a variety of indications in Australia.

Estimating the economic impacts of percutaneous coronary intervention in Australia: a registry-based cost burden study

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we sought to evaluate the costs of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) across a variety of indications in Victoria, Australia, using a direct per-person approach, as well as to identify key cost drivers.

DESIGN

A cost-burden study of PCI in Victoria was conducted from the Australian healthcare system perspective.

SETTING

A linked dataset of patients admitted to public hospitals for PCI in Victoria was drawn from the Victorian Cardiac Outcomes Registry (VCOR) and the Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset. Generalised linear regression modelling was used to evaluate key cost drivers. From 2014 to 2017, 20 345 consecutive PCIs undertaken in Victorian public hospitals were captured in VCOR.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Direct healthcare costs attributed to PCI, estimated using a casemix funding method.

RESULTS

Key cost drivers identified in the cost model included procedural complexity, patient length of stay and vascular access site. Although the total procedural cost increased from $A55 569 740 in 2014 to $A72 179 656 in 2017, mean procedural costs remained stable over time ($A12 521 in 2014 to $A12 185 in 2017) after adjustment for confounding factors. Mean procedural costs were also stable across patient indications for PCI ($A9872 for unstable angina to $A15 930 for ST-elevation myocardial infarction) after adjustment for confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The overall cost burden attributed to PCIs in Victoria is rising over time. However, despite increasing procedural complexity, mean procedural costs remained stable over time which may be, in part, attributed to changes in clinical practice.

Revascularisation strategies in patients with significant left main coronary disease during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background

There are limited data on the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on left main (LM) coronary revascularisation activity, choice of revascularisation strategy, and post‐procedural outcomes.

Methods

All patients with LM disease (≥50% stenosis) undergoing coronary revascularisation in England between January 1, 2017 and August 19, 2020 were included (n = 22,235), stratified by time‐period (pre‐COVID: 01/01/2017–29/2/2020; COVID: 1/3/2020–19/8/2020) and revascularisation strategy (percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) vs. coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Logistic regression models were performed to examine odds ratio (OR) of 1) receipt of CABG (vs. PCI) and 2) in‐hospital and 30‐day postprocedural mortality, in the COVID‐19 period (vs. pre‐COVID).

Results

There was a decline of 1,354 LM revascularisation procedures between March 1, 2020 and July 31, 2020 compared with previous years' (2017–2019) averages (−48.8%). An increased utilization of PCI over CABG was observed in the COVID period (receipt of CABG vs. PCI: OR 0.46 [0.39, 0.53] compared with 2017), consistent across all age groups. No difference in adjusted in‐hospital or 30‐day mortality was observed between pre‐COVID and COVID periods for both PCI (odds ratio (OR): 0.72 [0.51. 1.02] and 0.83 [0.62, 1.11], respectively) and CABG (OR 0.98 [0.45, 2.14] and 1.51 [0.77, 2.98], respectively) groups.

Conclusion

LM revascularisation activity has significantly declined during the COVID period, with a shift towards PCI as the preferred strategy. Postprocedural mortality within each revascularisation group was similar in the pre‐COVID and COVID periods, reflecting maintenance in quality of outcomes during the pandemic. Future measures are required to safely restore LM revascularisation activity to pre‐COVID levels.

Comparison of Outcomes of Patients With Versus Without Chronic Liver Disease Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

There are limited data on the outcomes of chronic liver disease (CLD) patients admitted for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). All PCI hospitalizations from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (2004 to 2015) were analyzed and stratified by the presence, cause and severity of CLD, as well as the indication for PCI. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of in-hospital adverse outcomes in patients with CLD compared with those without CLD. Among 7,296,679 PCI admissions, 54,368 (0.7%) had a CLD diagnosis. Among patients with CLD, 36,853 (67.8%) had severe CLD. Patients with CLD had higher likelihood of adverse outcomes including major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (aOR 1.25, 95%CI 1.20 to 1.30), mortality (aOR 1.43, 95%CI 1.35 to 1.51), major bleeding (aOR 2.22, 95%CI 2.12 to 2.32). When accounting for severity, only severe CLD subgroup was more likely to have MACCE and all-cause mortality compared to no-CLD patients (p <0.001). Among CLD etiologic subgroups, those with 'alcohol-related liver disease' and 'other CLD' were consistently more likely to develop MACCE, all-cause mortality and major bleeding in comparison to no-CLD patients, while 'chronic viral hepatitis' subgroup had only increased odds of major bleeding (p <0.001). In conclusion, CLD patients admitted for PCI are more likely to have worse in-hospital outcomes, particularly in the severe CLD subgroup and 'alcohol-related liver disease' and 'other CLD' etiologic subgroups.

Radial vs. Femoral Access for Percutaneous Coronary Artery Intervention in Patients With ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

We aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of transradial vs transfemoral access for coronary angiography and intervention in patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) without cardiogenic shock.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing outcomes of STEMI patients who underwent transradial angiography (TRA) compared to transfemoral angiography (TFA). Our outcomes of interest were major adverse cardiac events (MACE), all-cause mortality, severe bleeding, access site bleeding, myocardial infarction, stroke, and major vascular complications. Summary statistics are reported as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

In a pooled analysis of 17 RCTs with 12,118 randomized patients, the use of transradial compared to transfemoral approach in STEMI patients without cardiogenic shock was associated with a significant reduction in MACE [OR 0.85 (95% CI 0.73-0.99; p = 0.04; NNT = 111; I² = 0%)] and all-cause mortality [OR 0.71 (95% CI 0.57-0.88; p < 0.01; NNT = 111; I² = 0%)]. Severe bleeding [OR 0.57 (95% CI 0.44-0.74; p < 0.01; NNT = 77; I² = 0%)], access-site bleeding [OR 0.39 (95% CI 0.26-0.59; p < 0.01; NNT = 67; I² = 24%)], and major vascular complications [OR of 0.31 (95% CI 0.17-0.55; p < 0.01; NNT = 125; I² = 0%)] were lower in TRA compared to TFA. There was no difference in stroke (0.6% vs 0.5%) or recurrent myocardial infarction (2.01% vs 2.02%) between the two approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

For coronary intervention in STEMI patients without cardiogenic shock, there is a clear mortality benefit with the TRA over TFA. Further studies are needed to see if this mortality benefit persists over the long-term.

Transradial versus transfemoral access for cardiac catheterization: a nationwide pilot study of training preferences and expertise in The United States

Background

The objective was to assess current training preferences, expertise, and comfort with transfemoral access (TFA) and transradial access (TRA) amongst cardiovascular training fellows and teaching faculty in theUnited States. As TRA continues to dominate the field of interventional cardiology, there is a concern that trainees may become less proficient with the femoral approach.

Methods

A detailed questionnaire was sent out to academic General Cardiovascular and Interventional Cardiology training programs in the United States. Responses were sought from fellows-in-training and faculty regarding preferences and practice of TFA and TRA. Answers were analyzed for significant differences between trainees and trainers.

Results

A total of 125 respondents (75 fellows-in-training and 50 faculty) completed and returned the survey. The average grade of comfort for TFA, on a scale of 0 to 10 (10 being most comfortable), was reported to be 6 by fellows-in-training and 10 by teaching faculty (p<0.001). TRA was the first preference in 95% of the fellows-in-training compared to 69% of teaching faculty (p 0.001). While 62% of fellows believed that they would receive the same level of training as their trainers by the time they graduate, only 35% of their trainers believed so (p 0.004).

Conclusion

The shift from TFA to radial first has resulted in significant concern among cardiovascular fellows-in training and the faculty regarding training in TFA. Cardiovascular training programs must be cognizant of this issue and should devise methods to assure optimal training of fellows in gaining TFA and managing femoral access-related complications.

Early radial artery occlusion following the use of a transradial 7-French sheath for complex coronary interventions in Chinese patients

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to explore the impact of 7-Fr sheaths on the incidence of early radial artery occlusion (RAO) after transradial coronary intervention (TRI) in Chinese patients.

BACKGROUND

RAO precludes future use of the vessel for vascular access. Transradial catheterization is usually performed via 5-Fr or 6-Fr catheters; 7-Fr sheath insertion enables complex coronary interventions but may increase the RAO risk.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled 130 consecutive patients undergoing complex TRI using 7-Fr sheaths. Radial artery ultrasound assessment was performed before and after TRI. Early RAO was defined as the absence of flow on ultrasound within 6-24 hr after TRI. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the factors related to early RAO after TRI.

RESULTS

7-Fr sheaths were mainly used for chronic total occlusion (44.6%), bifurcation (30.0%), and tortuous calcification (25.4%) lesions. All patients were successfully sheathed. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) procedural success was 96.2%; 119 patients (91.5%) had preserved radial artery patency after TRI. All 11 RAO cases (8.5%) were asymptomatic. The radial artery diameter was significantly larger postoperatively (3.1 ± 0.4 mm) than preoperatively (2.6 ± 0.5 mm) (p < .001). No parameters significantly differed between patients with and without RAO. TRI history was the only independent risk factor of early RAO (odds ratio: 6.047, 95% confidence interval: 1.100-33.253, p = .039).

CONCLUSIONS

7-Fr sheath use after transradial access for complex PCI is feasible and safe. Evaluating the radial artery within 24 hr after TRI allows timely RAO recognition, important for taking measures to maintain radial artery patency and preserve access for future TRIs.

Preprocedural Anxiety in the Transradial Cardiac Catheterization Era

BACKGROUND

Transradial cardiac catheterization is increasingly being used for the management of coronary artery disease given the low risk of procedural discomfort and complications with this approach. However, the evidence relating to preprocedural anxiety levels in these patients is scarce.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anxiety levels and the predictors of anxiety in patients undergoing transradial cardiac catheterization procedures.

METHODS

Data were collected using a self-administered survey. Anxiety was measured using the Spielberg's State-Trait Anxiety Inventory questionnaire. Multiple regression analysis was used to identify whether gender, age, family history of heart disease, smoking status, history of depression, and trait anxiety scores were predictors of preprocedural anxiety.

RESULTS

A total of 198 patients participated in this study. More than half of the patients (53.5%) were classified as having a high state anxiety level. The mean (SD) preprocedural trait and state anxiety scores were 35.34 (9.8) and 36.43 (11.4), respectively. Female patients, those younger than 65 years, current smokers, and those with a family history of heart disease, a history of depression, and a history of anxiety had significantly higher anxiety scores. Having high trait anxiety scores was the only predictor of preprocedural anxiety.

CONCLUSION

Although the transradial approach has a low procedural risk and causes less discomfort to the patient, anxiety persists in more than 50% of patients, with trait anxiety being the best predictor. Nurses should therefore try to decrease anxiety levels in the preprocedural phase to minimize postprocedural adverse outcomes in this group of patients.

Radial artery access is associated with lower mortality in patients undergoing primary PCI: a report from the SWEDEHEART registry

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this observational study was to evaluate the effects of radial artery access versus femoral artery access on the risk of 30-day mortality, inhospital bleeding and cardiogenic shock in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

METHODS

We used data from the SWEDEHEART registry and included all patients who were treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention in Sweden between 2005 and 2016. We compared patients who had percutaneous coronary intervention by radial access versus femoral access with regard to the primary endpoint of all-cause death within 30 days, using a multilevel propensity score adjusted logistic regression which included hospital as a random effect.

RESULTS

During the study period, 44,804 patients underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention of whom 24,299 (54.2%) had radial access and 20,505 (45.8%) femoral access. There were 2487 (5.5%) deaths within 30 days, of which 920 (3.8%) occurred in the radial access and 1567 (7.6%) in the femoral access group. After propensity score adjustment, radial access was associated with a lower risk of death (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.55-0.88, P = 0.025). We found no interaction between access site and age, gender and cardiogenic shock regarding 30-day mortality. Radial access was also associated with a lower adjusted risk of bleeding (adjusted OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.25-0.79, P = 0.006) and cardiogenic shock (adjusted OR 0.41, 95% CI 0.24-0.73, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction, primary percutaneous coronary intervention by radial access rather than femoral access was associated with an adjusted lower risk of death, bleeding and cardiogenic shock. Our findings are consistent with, and add external validity to, recent randomised trials.

Contributors to the Growth of Same Day Discharge After Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background:

Financial pressures for reducing hospitalization costs have driven to a move toward same day discharge (SDD) following uncomplicated percutaneous coronary intervention. The UK healthcare system has transitioned to predominantly SDD for elective percutaneous coronary intervention. This study aimed to examine patient’s clinical, procedural, and institutional characteristics that are associated with the increased adoption of SDD adoption over time in the United Kingdom and determine whether these vary by region.

Methods:

The data were derived from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society including all the elective percutaneous coronary intervention from 2007 to 2014 in the United Kingdom. We structured 8 meaningful groups of variables, and their relative importance was obtained by decomposing the R 2 in each study year.

Results:

The relative importance of Strategic Health Authorities was substantially higher than all other factors every year, with some reduction over time, from 49.2% (95% CI, 45.4%–52.4%) in 2007 to 43.4% (95% CI, 39.9%–46.6%) in 2014. Center volume followed with 8.95% (95% CI, 7.0%–10.9%) to 19.8% (95% CI, 16.7%–22.4%). Between patients’ clinical and procedural characteristics, pharmacology and access site had the highest relative importance values, from 14.3% (95% CI, 12.1%–16.4%) to 7.1% (95% CI, 5.5%–8.8%) and from 3.6% (95% CI, 2.3%–5.1%) to 11.8% (95% CI, 9.4%–14.3%), respectively. Relative importance of different groups varied differently across Strategic Health Authorities.

Conclusions:

Growth of SDD was mainly associated with regional characteristics, while subcontributors varied substantially between different regions. Standardized guidelines would provide more homogenous adoption of SDD nationally. This analysis might be of wider interest in healthcare systems slower in SDD adoption.

The Current Status of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Korea: Based on Year 2014 & 2016 Cohort of Korean Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (K-PCI) Registry

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

In this second report from Korean percutaneous coronary intervention (K-PCI) registry, we sought to describe the updated information of PCI practices and Korean practice pattern of PCI (KP3).

METHODS

In addition to K-PCI registry of 2014, new cohort of 2016 from 92 participating centers was appended. Demographic and procedural information, as well as in-hospital outcomes, of PCI was collected using a web-based reporting system. KP3 class C was defined as any strategy with less evidence from randomized trials and more aggressive for PCI than medical therapy or bypass-surgery.

RESULTS

In 2016, total 48,823 PCI procedures were performed at 92 participating centers. Mean age of the patients was 65.7±11.6 years, and 71.7% were males. Overall patient characteristics and PCI practices in 2016 were similar to those in 2014. The biggest change was the decrease in the in-hospital occurrence of myocardial infarction (MI;1.6%→0.7%, p<0.001). Many associations between PCI volumes and demographic/procedural characteristics observed in 2014 have disappeared. The median of door-to-balloon time was 62 minutes, and 83.3% of ST-elevation MI patients received primary PCI within 90 minutes, while the median of total ischemic time was 168 minutes and patients who had total ischemic time within 120 and 180 minutes were 29.1% and 54.1%, respectively. The proportion of KP3 class C cases in non-acute coronary syndrome patients decreased from 13.5% in 2014 to 12.1% in 2016 (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In this second report from K-PCI registry, we described the current practices of PCI and changes from 2014 to 2016 in Korea.

Outcomes Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Non-ST-Segment-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients With Coronary Artery Bypass Grafts

Background There are limited data on outcomes of patients with previous coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) presenting with non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We compare clinical characteristics and outcomes in non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing PCI with or without prior CABG surgery in a national cohort. Methods and Results We identified 205 039 patients with non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction who underwent PCI between 2007 and 2014 in the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society database. Clinical, demographic, procedural, and outcome data were analyzed by dividing into 3 groups: group 1, PCI in native coronary arteries and no prior CABG (n=186 670); group 2, PCI in native arteries with prior CABG (n=8825); group 3, PCI in grafts (n=9544). Patients in group 2 and 3 were older and had more comorbidities and higher mortality at 30 days (group 2, 2.6% and group 3, 1.9%) and 1 year (group 2, 8.29% and group 3, 7.08%) as compared with group 1 (1.7% and 4.87%). After multivariable analysis, no significant difference in outcomes was observed in 30-days mortality (odds ratio; group 2=0.87 [CI, 0.69-1.80; P=0.20], group 3=0.91 [CI, 0.71-1.17; P=0.46]), in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular event (odds ratio: group 2=1.08 [CI, 0.88-1.34; P=0.45], group 3=0.97 [CI=0.77-1.23; P=0.82]), and in-hospital stroke (odds ratio: group 2=1.37 [CI, 0.71-2.69; P=0.35], group 3=1.13 [CI, 0.55-2.34; P=0.73]; group 1=reference). Conclusions Patients with prior CABG are presenting with non-ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction and treated with PCI had more comorbid illnesses, but once these differences were adjusted for, prior CABG did not independently confer additional risk of mortality and major adverse cardiovascular event.

The association between the public reporting of individual operator outcomes with patient profiles, procedural management, and mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention: an observational study from the Pan-London PCI (BCIS) Registry using an interrupted time series analysis

AIMS

The public reporting of healthcare outcomes has a number of potential benefits; however, unintended consequences may limit its effectiveness as a quality improvement process. We aimed to assess whether the introduction of individual operator specific outcome reporting after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the UK was associated with a change in patient risk factor profiles, procedural management, or 30-day mortality outcomes in a large cohort of consecutive patients.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This was an observational cohort study of 123 780 consecutive PCI procedures from the Pan-London (UK) PCI registry, from January 2005 to December 2015. Outcomes were compared pre- (2005-11) and post- (2011-15) public reporting including the use of an interrupted time series analysis. Patients treated after public reporting was introduced were older and had more complex medical problems. Despite this, reported in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events rates were significantly lower after the introduction of public reporting (2.3 vs. 2.7%, P < 0.0001). Interrupted time series analysis demonstrated evidence of a reduction in 30-day mortality rates after the introduction of public reporting, which was over and above the existing trend in mortality before the introduction of public outcome reporting (35% decrease relative risk 0.64, 95% confidence interval 0.55-0.77; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The introduction of public reporting has been associated with an improvement in outcomes after PCI in this data set, without evidence of risk-averse behaviour. However, the lower reported complication rates might suggest a change in operator behaviour and decision-making confirming the need for continued surveillance of the impact of public reporting on outcomes and operator behaviour.

Retroperitoneal Hemorrhage After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: Incidence, Determinants, and Outcomes as Recorded by the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society

BACKGROUND

Retroperitoneal hemorrhage (RH) is a rare bleeding complication of percutaneous coronary intervention, which can result as a consequence of femoral access or can occur spontaneously. This study aims to evaluate temporal changes in RH, its predictors, and clinical outcomes in a national cohort of patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention in the United Kingdom.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We analyzed RH events in patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention between 2007 and 2014. Multiple logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with RH and to quantify the association between RH and 30-day mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events. A total of 511 106 participants were included, and 291 in hospital RH events were recorded (0.06%). Overall, rates of RH declined from 0.09% to 0.03% between 2007 and 2014. The strongest independent predictors of RH events were femoral access (odds ratio [OR], 19.66; 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.22-34.43), glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor (OR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.99-3.47), and warfarin use (OR, 2.53; 95% CI, 1.07-5.99). RH was associated with a significant increase in 30-day mortality (OR, 3.59; 95% CI, 2.19-5.90) and in-hospital major adverse cardiovascular events (OR, 5.76; 95% CI, 3.71-8.95). A legacy effect was not observed; patients with RH who survived 30 days did not have higher 1-year mortality compared with those without this complication (hazard ratio, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.49-1.91).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that RH is a rare event that is declining in the United Kingdom, related to transition to transradial access site utilization, but remains a clinically important event associated with increased 30-day mortality but no long-term legacy effect.

Vascular Access Site and Outcomes in 58,870 Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention With a Previous History of Coronary Bypass Surgery: Results From the British Cardiovascular Interventions Society National Database

OBJECTIVES

Using the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) database, access site choice and outcomes of patients undergoing PCI with previous coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were studied.

BACKGROUND

Given the influence of access site on outcomes, use of radial access in PCI-CABG warrants further investigation.

METHODS

Data were analyzed from 58,870 PCI-CABG procedures performed between 2005 and 2014. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of access site choice and its association with outcomes.

RESULTS

The number of PCI-CABG cases and the percentage of total PCI increased significantly during the study period. Femoral artery (FA) utilization fell from 90.8% in 2005 to 57.6% in 2014 (p < 0.001), with no differences in the rate of change of left versus right radial use. In contemporary study years (2012 to 2014), female sex, acute coronary syndrome presentation, chronic total occlusion intervention, and lower operator volume were independently associated with FA access. Length of stay was shortened in the radial cohort. Unadjusted outcomes including an access site complication (1.10% vs. 0.30%; p < 0.001), blood transfusion (0.20% vs. 0.04%; p < 0.001), major bleeding (1.30% vs. 0.40%; p < 0.001), and in-hospital death (1.10% vs. 0.60%; p = 0.001) were more likely to occur with FA access compared with radial access. After adjustment, although arterial complications, transfusion, and major bleeding remained more common with FA use, short- and longer-term mortality and major adverse cardiac event rates were similar.

CONCLUSIONS

In contemporary practice, FA access remains predominant during PCI-CABG with case complexity associated with it use. FA use was associated with longer length of stay, and higher rates of vascular complications, major bleeding, and transfusion.

Radial versus femoral vascular access in ST-elevation myocardial infarction: Are the results of femoral operators unfairly represented in observational research?

BACKGROUND

Recent randomized controlled trials comparing femoral and radial access in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) have shown conflicting results regarding the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and major bleeding.

METHODS

Using data from the HEAT-PPCI trial, we compared the primary efficacy (all-cause mortality, stroke, new myocardial infarction or unplanned repeat revascularization) and safety (major bleeding BARC 3-5) outcomes at 28 days, by final access site used (radial or femoral) and by default operator type. We then assessed outcomes in femoral cases performed by both operator types.

RESULTS

Radial access (RA) was associated with fewer MACE (91/1472 = 6.2% vs. 36/332 = 10.8% P = .003) and major bleeding events (38/1472 = 2.6% vs 22/332 = 6.6% P = .001) when compared to femoral access (FA). When analyzing outcomes by default operator type, there was a similar incidence of MACE (111/1575 = 7% vs 16/229 = 7% P = .97) and major bleeding events (49/1575 = 3.1% vs 11/229 = 4.8% P = .18). In cases where FA was performed by default radial operators, there was a higher rate of MACE (22/122 = 18% vs 14/210 = 6.7% P = .003) and major bleeding events (11/122 = 9% vs 11/210 = 5.2% P < .001), potentially explained by a higher risk profile in these cases.

CONCLUSION

Default femoral operators achieved comparable outcomes when compared to default radial operators. The less favorable outcomes observed in FA cases may result from its selective use by radial operators in high risk cases.

The influence of Elixhauser comorbidity index on percutaneous coronary intervention outcomes

BACKGROUND

Clinical outcomes with respect to the evolution of comorbidity burden in national cohorts of patients undergoing PCI have not been reported.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to explore the association between comorbidity burden and periprocedural outcomes in patients treated with PCI in the National Inpatient Sample.

METHODS

6,601,526 PCI procedures were identified between 2004 and 2014 and comorbidities were defined by the Elixhauser classification system (ECS) consisting of 30 comorbidity measures. Endpoints included in-hospital mortality, periprocedural complications, length of stay and cost. Patients were classified based on their ECS in five categories (ECS I < 0, ECS II = 0, ECS III = 1-5, ECS IV = 6-13, and ECS V ≥ 14).

RESULTS

Patients with a score over 13 had a fivefold increase in the odds of mortality (OR: 5.13, 95% CI: 4.76-5.54), major bleeding (OR: 11.46, 95% CI: 10.66-12.33) and doubled the hospitalization costs ($31,452 vs $17.566).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study of over six million PCI procedures demonstrates that patients with the greatest comorbid burden (as defined by an ECS of >13) have a fivefold increase risk of in-hospital mortality, a fourfold increase in in-hospital periprocedural complications and an 11-fold increase in major bleeding events once differences in baseline patient characteristics are adjusted for. In addition, ECS significantly impacts the length of stay and doubles the healthcare costs. Comorbid burden is an important predictor of poor outcomes after PCI and should be considered as part of the decision-making processes in patients undergoing PCI.

Antiplatelet drug selection in PCI to vein grafts in patients with acute coronary syndrome and adverse clinical outcomes: Insights from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society database

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate outcomes associated with different P2Y12 agents in Saphenous Vein graft (SVG) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

BACKGROUND

SVG PCI is associated with greater risks of ischemic complications, compared with native coronary PCI. Outcomes associated with the use of potent P2Y12 blocking drugs, Prasugrel and Ticagrelor, in SVG PCI are unknown.

METHODS

Patients included in the study underwent SVG PCI in the United Kingdom between 2007 and 2014 for acute coronary syndrome and were grouped by P2Y12 antiplatelet use. In-hospital major adverse cardiac events, major bleeding and 30-day and 1-year mortality were examined. Multiple imputations with chained equations to impute missing data were used. Adjustment for baseline imbalances was performed using (1) multiple logistic regression (MLR) and (separately) (2) propensity score matching (PSM).

RESULTS

Data weres analyzed from 8,119 patients and most cases were treated with Clopidogrel (n = 7,401), followed by Ticagrelor (n = 497) and Prasugrel (n = 221). In both MLR and PSM models, there was no significant evidence to suggest that either Prasugrel or Ticagrelor was associated with significantly lower 30-day mortality compared with Clopidogrel. The odds ratios reported from the multivariable analysis were 1.22 (95% CI: 0.60-2.51) for Prasugrel vs. Clopidogrel and 0.48 (95% CI: 0.20-1.16) for Ticagrelor vs. Clopidogrel. No significant differences were seen for in-hospital ischemic or bleeding events.

CONCLUSIONS

Our real world national study provides no clear evidence to indicate that use of potent P2Y12 blockers in SVG PCI is associated with improved clinical outcomes.

Incidence and Clinical Course of Limb Dysfunction Post Cardiac Catheterization - A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

We systematically reviewed the available literature on limb dysfunction after transradial access (TRA) or transfemoral access (TFA) cardiac catheterization. Methods and Results: MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for studies evaluating any transradial or transfemoral procedures and limb function outcomes. Data were extracted and results were narratively synthesized with similar treatment arms. The TRA group included 15 studies with 3,616 participants and of these 3 reported nerve damage with a combined incidence of 0.16% and 4 reported sensory loss, tingling and numbness with a pooled incidence of 1.61%. Pain after TRA was the most common form of limb dysfunction (7.77%) reported in 3 studies. The incidence of hand dysfunction defined as disability, grip strength change, power loss or neuropathy was low at 0.49%. Although radial artery occlusion (RAO) was not a primary endpoint for this review, it was observed in 3.57% of the participants in a total of 8 studies included. The TFA group included 4 studies with 15,903,894 participants; the rates of peripheral neuropathy were 0.004%, sensory neuropathy caused by local groin injury and retroperitoneal hematomas were 0.04% and 0.17%, respectively, and motor deficit caused by femoral and obturator nerve damage was 0.13%.

CONCLUSIONS

Limb dysfunction post cardiac catheterization is rare, but patients may have nonspecific sensory and motor complaints that resolve over a period of time.

Changes in Periprocedural Bleeding Complications Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in The United Kingdom Between 2006 and 2013 (from the British Cardiovascular Interventional Society)

Major bleeding is a common complication after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), although little is known about how bleeding rates have changed over time and what has driven this. We analyzed all patients who underwent PCI in England and Wales from 2006 to 2013. Multivariate analyses using logistic regression models were performed to identify predictors of bleeding to identify potential factors influencing bleeding trends over time. 545,604 participants who had PCI in England and Wales between 2006 and 2013 were included in the analyses. Overall bleeding rates decreased from 7.0 (CI 6.2 to 7.8) per 1,000 procedures in 2006 to 5.5 (CI 4.7 to 6.2) per 1,000 in 2013. Increasing age, female sex, GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors use, and circulatory support were independently associated with increased risk of bleeding complications whereas radial access and vascular closure device use were independently associated with decreases in risk. Decreases in bleeding rates over time were associated with radial access site, and changes in pharmacology, but this was offset by greater proportion of ACS cases and the adverse patient clinical demographics. In conclusion, major bleeding complications after PCI have decreased due to changes in access site practice and decreased usage of GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors, but this is offset by the increase of patients with higher propensity to bleed. Changes in access site practice nationally have the potential to significantly reduce major bleeding after PCI.

Temporal Changes in Co-Morbidity Burden in Patients Having Percutaneous Coronary Intervention and Impact on Prognosis

This study aims to evaluate the impact of co-morbidity burden on outcomes in patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to identify all PCI procedures undertaken in the United States from 2004 to 2014. We then determined co-morbidity burden for each patient record based on the Charlson Co-morbidity Score. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to examine the association between co-morbidity burden and in-hospital mortality other in-hospital complications. A total of 6,601,526 PCI procedures were included in the analysis. Overall co-morbidity burden increased over time, with severe co-morbidity burden (defined as a CCI score ≥3) increasing from 5.3% in 2004 to 14.2% in 2014 (p <0.0001). After adjustment for confounding factors increasing co-morbidity burden was independently associated with increased odds of in-hospital mortality, complications, length of hospital stay, and total cost of hospitalization post PCI. A CCI score of 1 was independently associated with an increase in the odds of in hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] 1.19 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.15 to 1.25]), a score of 2 associated with an almost 1.5-fold increase (OR 1.41 [95% CI 1.34 to 1.48]) and a score of ≥3 a 2-fold increase (OR 1.96 [95% CI 1.86 to 2.07]) compared with no co-morbid burden (CCI score of 0). In conclusion, our results show that co-morbid burden is independently associated with increased risk of in-hospital mortality, in-hospital complications, length of stay, and healthcare costs.

Stenting in Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Acute ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction

The treatment of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has advanced dramatically over the past 30 years since the introduction of reperfusion therapies, such that mechanical reperfusion with primary percutaneous coronary intervention is now the standard of care. With STEMI, as with other forms of acute coronary syndrome, stent deployment in culprit lesions is the dominant form of reperfusion in the developed world and is supported by contemporary guidelines. However, the precise timing of stenting and the extent to which both culprit and non-culprit lesions should be treated continue to be active areas of study. In this review, we revisit key data that support the use of mechanical reperfusion therapy in STEMI patients and explore the optimal timing for and extent of stent implantation in this complex patient group. We also review data surrounding the deleterious effects of untreated residual myocardial ischemia, the importance of complete revascularization, and the recent data exploring culprit-only versus multivessel stenting in the STEMI setting.

Effect of Comorbidity On Unplanned Readmissions After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (From The Nationwide Readmission Database)

It is unclear how comorbidity influences rates and causes of unplanned readmissions following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). We analyzed patients in the Nationwide Readmission Database who were admitted to hospital between 2010 and 2014. The comorbidity burden as defined by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). Primary outcomes were 30-day readmission rates and causes of readmission according to comorbidity burden. A total of 2,294,346 PCI procedures were included the analysis. The patients in CCI = 0, 1, 2 and ≥3 were 842,272(36.7%), 701,476(30.6%), 347,537(15.1%) and 403,061(17.6%), respectively. 219,227(9.6%) had an unplanned readmission within 30 days and rates by CCI group were 6.6%, 8.6%, 11.4% and 15.9% for CCI groups 0, 1, 2 and ≥3, respectively. The CCI score was also associated with greater cost (cost of index PCI for not readmitted vs readmitted was CCI = 0 $21,257 vs $19,764 and CCI ≥ 3 $26,736 vs $27,723). Compared to patients with CCI = 0, greater CCI score was associated with greater independent odds of readmission (CCI = 1 OR 1.25(1.22–1.28), p < 0.001, CCI ≥ 3 OR 2.08(2.03–2.14), p < 0.001). Rates of non-cardiac causes for readmissions increased with increasing CCI group from 49.4% in CCI = 0 to 57.1% in CCI ≥ 3. Rates of early unplanned readmission increase with greater comorbidity burden and non-cardiac readmissions are higher among more comorbid patients.

Incidence, Determinants, and Outcomes of Left and Right Radial Access Use in Patients Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in the United Kingdom: A National Perspective Using the BCIS Dataset

OBJECTIVES

The authors sought to determine the relationships between left radial access (LRA) or right radial access (RRA) and clinical outcomes using the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society (BCIS) database.

BACKGROUND

LRA has been shown to offer procedural advantages over RRA in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) although few data exist from a national perspective around its use and association with clinical outcomes.

METHODS

The authors investigated the relationship between use of LRA or RRA and clinical outcomes of in-hospital or 30-day mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), in-hospital stroke, and major bleeding complications in patients undergoing PCI between 2007 and 2014.

RESULTS

Of 342,806 cases identified, 328,495 (96%) were RRA and 14,311 (4%) were LRA. Use of LRA increased from 3.2% to 4.6% from 2007 to 2014. In patients undergoing a repeat PCI procedure, the use of RRA dropped to 72% at the second procedure and was even lower in females (65%) and patients >75 years of age (70%). Use of LRA (compared with RRA) was not associated with significant differences in in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR]: 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.90 to 1.57; p = 0.20), 30-day mortality (OR: 1.17, 95% CI: 0.93 to 1.74; p = 0.16), MACE (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.86 to 1.32; p = 0.56), or major bleeding (OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 0.87 to 1.77; p = 0.24). In propensity match analysis, LRA was associated with a significant decrease in in-hospital stroke (OR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.82; p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large PCI database, use of LRA is limited compared with RRA but conveys no increased risk of adverse outcomes, but may be associated with a reduction in PCI-related stroke complications.

Health Economic Analysis of Access Site Practice in England During Changes in Practice: Insights From the British Cardiovascular Interventional Society

BACKGROUND

Transradial access (TRA) for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is associated with a reduced risk of mortality compared with transfemoral access, access site-related bleeding complications, and shorter length of stay. The budget impact from a healthcare system that has largely transitioned to TRA for PCI has not been previously published.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data from 323 656 patients undergoing PCI between 2010 and 2014 were obtained from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society database. Costs for TRA and transfemoral access PCI were estimated based on procedure cost, length of stay, and differences in the rates of complications (major bleeding and vascular complications). In the base case, a propensity-matched data set between transfemoral access and TRA was used to directly compare the cost per PCI, whereas in the real-world analysis, the full data set was used. Across all indications and all years, TRA offered an average cost saving of £250.59 per procedure (22% reduction) versus transfemoral access with the majority of cost saving derived from reduced length of stay (£190.43) rather than direct costs of complications (£3.71). In the real-world analysis, adoption of TRA was estimated to have provided cost savings of £13.31 million across England between 2010 and 2014; however, if operators in all regions had adopted TRA at the rate of the region with the highest utilization, cost savings of £33.40 million could have been achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

The transition to TRA in England has been associated with significant cost savings across the national healthcare system, in addition to the well-established clinical benefits.

Accelerated patent hemostasis using a procoagulant disk; a protocol designed to minimize the risk of radial artery occlusion following cardiac catheterization

PURPOSE

Radial artery occlusion flowing cardiac catheterisation has been linked to flow reduction and prolonged compression. We investigate whether these factors can be optimised following transradial cardiac catheterisation by using an accelerated band removal protocol facilitated by a haemostasis promoting pad, in combination with a patent haemostasis technique.

METHODS

In this single centre prospective study, 389 consecutive patients undergoing TRA for coronary angiography or angioplasty were randomised to two haemostasis protocols: use of a Helix™ compression device alone (HC) or in combination with a haemostatic pad (StatSeal® disc) and an accelerated haemostasis protocol (AC). A patent haemostasis technique was employed in both study arms. The primary efficacy endpoint was the time to haemostasis and the secondary safety outcome was access site related complications: re-bleeding, haematoma and radial artery patency assessed within 24 h using reverse Barbeau's Test (BT).

RESULTS

Between May and Nov 2017, 191 patients were randomised to receive HC and 198 patients to AC. Compression time was significantly higher with HC as compared to AC (165.8 ± 63.1 versus 79.7 ± 41.2 min, p < 0.001). There were no significant differences in re-bleeding and RAO between groups (3.7% versus 5.6%, p = 0.37 and 6.3% versus 4.1%, p = 0.33) respectively. Incidence of haematoma was higher in AC group (4.7% versus 12.1%, p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

A reduction in radial artery compression time can be achieved by using Statseal in association with an accelerated haemostasis protocol without increasing the risk of access site bleeding and RAO. The combination of reduced compression time combined with maintained radial flow via patent haemostasis has the potential to reduce the risk of radial occlusion after transradial catheterisation.

The Relationship of Body Mass Index to Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Outcomes: Does the Obesity Paradox Exist in Contemporary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Cohorts? Insights From the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society Registry

OBJECTIVES

The aims of this study were to examine the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and clinical outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and to determine the relevance of different clinical presentations requiring PCI to this relationship.

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a growing problem, and studies have reported a protective effect from obesity compared with normal BMI for adverse outcomes after PCI.

METHODS

Between 2005 and 2013, 345,192 participants were included. Data were obtained from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society registry, and mortality data were obtained through the U.K. Office of National Statistics. Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine the association between BMI group (<18.5, 18.5 to 24.9, 25 to 30 and >30 kg/m²) and adverse in-hospital outcomes and mortality.

RESULTS

At 30 days post-PCI, significantly lower mortality was seen in patients with elevated BMIs (odds ratio [OR]: 0.86 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80 to 0.93] 0.90 [95% CI: 0.82 to 0.98] for BMI 25 to 30 and >30 kg/m², respectively). At 1 year post-PCI, and up to 5 years post-PCI, elevated BMI (either overweight or obese) was an independent predictor of greater survival compared with normal weight (OR: 0.70 [95% CI: 0.67 to 0.73] and 0.73 [95% CI: 0.69 to 0.77], respectively, for 1 year; OR: 0.78 [95% CI: 0.75 to 0.81] and 0.88 [95% CI: 0.84 to 0.92], respectively, for 5 years). Similar reductions in mortality were observed for the analysis according to clinical presentation (stable angina, unstable angina or non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction).

CONCLUSIONS

A paradox regarding the independent association of elevated BMI with reduced mortality after PCI is still evident in contemporary U.K. practice. This is seen in both stable and more acute clinical settings.

Temporal changes in radial access use, associates and outcomes in patients undergoing PCI using rotational atherectomy between 2007 and 2014: results from the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society national database

AIMS

Access site choice for cases requiring rotational atherectomy (PCI-ROTA) is poorly defined. Using the British Cardiovascular Intervention Society PCI database, temporal changes and contemporary associates/outcomes of access site choice for PCI-ROTA were studied.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Data were analysed from 11,444 PCI-ROTA procedures performed in England and Wales between 2007 and 2014. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify predictors of access site choice and its association with outcomes.

RESULTS

For PCI-ROTA, radial access increased from 19.6% in 2007 to 58.6% in 2014. Adoption of radial access was slower in females, those with prior CABG, and in patients with chronic occlusive (CTO) or left main disease. In 2013/14, the strongest predictors of femoral artery use were age (OR 1.02, [1.005-1.036], P = .008), CTO intervention (OR 1.95, [1.209-3.314], P = .006), and history of previous CABG (OR 1.68, [1.124-2.515], P = .010). Radial access was associated with reductions in overall length of stay, and increased rates of same-day discharge. Procedural success rates were similar although femoral access use was associated with increased access site complications (2.4 vs. 0.1%, P < .001). After adjustment for baseline differences, arterial complications (OR 15.6, P < .001), transfusion (OR 12.5, P = .023) and major bleeding OR 6.0, P < .001) remained more common with FA use. Adjusted mortality and MACE rates were similar in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

In contemporary practice, radial access for PCI-ROTA results in similar procedural success when compared to femoral access but is associated with shorter length of stay, and lower rates of vascular complication, major bleeding and transfusion.