Current real-life use of vasopressors and inotropes in cardiogenic shock - adrenaline use is associated with excess organ injury and mortality

Blood glucose and lactate levels as early predictive markers in patients presenting with cardiogenic shock: A retrospective cohort study

Lactate and glucose are widely used biochemical parameters in current predictive risk scores for cardiogenic shock. Data regarding the relationship between lactate and glucose levels in cardiogenic shock are limited. Thus, we aimed to analyze glucose and lactate as early markers for in-hospital mortality in cardiogenic shock. In this retrospective cohort study, 312 patients presenting with cardiogenic shock to a tertiary-care hospital between 2016 and 2018 were included. Apparent cardiogenic shock was defined as hypoperfusion with hemodynamic compromise and biochemical marker increase due to diminished tissue perfusion, corresponding to SCAI shock stages. In-hospital mortality was assessed as the primary endpoint. The median age of the study population was 71 (60-79) years and the etiology of cardiogenic shock was acute myocardial infarction in 45.8%. Overall in-hospital mortality was 67.6%. In the receiver operating curve analysis, the area under the receiver-operating curve (AUC) for prediction of in-hospital mortality was higher for lactate (AUC: 0.757) than for glucose (AUC: 0.652). Both values were significantly associated with outcome (groups created with best cutoff values obtained from the Youden index). Correlation analysis showed a significant non-linear association of both values. In a multivariable stepwise Cox regression analysis, lactate remained an independent predictor for in-hospital mortality, whilst glucose, despite being implicated in energy metabolism, was not independently predictive for mortality. Together, these data suggest that lactate at admission is superior for mortality prediction in patients with apparent cardiogenic shock. Glucose was not independently predictive for mortality.

Beta-Blockers as an Immunologic and Autonomic Manipulator in Critically Ill Patients: A Review of the Recent Literature

The autonomic nervous system plays a key role in maintaining body hemostasis through both the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Sympathetic overstimulation as a reflex to multiple pathologies, such as septic shock, brain injury, cardiogenic shock, and cardiac arrest, could be harmful and lead to autonomic and immunologic dysfunction. The continuous stimulation of the beta receptors on immune cells has an inhibitory effect on these cells and may lead to immunologic dysfunction through enhancing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-10 (IL-10), and inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory factors, such as interleukin-1B IL-1B and tissue necrotizing factor-alpha (TNF-alpha). Sympathetic overstimulation-induced autonomic dysfunction may also happen due to adrenergic receptor insensitivity or downregulation. Administering anti-adrenergic medication, such as beta-blockers, is a promising treatment to compensate against the undesired effects of adrenergic surge. Despite many misconceptions about beta-blockers, beta-blockers have shown a promising effect in decreasing mortality in patients with critical illness. In this review, we summarize the recently published articles that have discussed using beta-blockers as a promising treatment to decrease mortality in critically ill patients, such as patients with septic shock, traumatic brain injury, cardiogenic shock, acute decompensated heart failure, and electrical storm. We also discuss the potential pathophysiology of beta-blockers in various types of critical illness. More clinical trials are encouraged to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of beta-blockers in improving mortality among critically ill patients.

Inotropic Agents: Are We Still in the Middle of Nowhere?

Inotropes are prescribed to enhance myocardial contractility while vasopressors serve to improve vascular tone. Although these medications remain a life-saving therapy in cardiovascular clinical scenarios with hemodynamic impairment, the paucity of evidence on these drugs makes the choice of the most appropriate vasoactive agent challenging. As such, deep knowledge of their pharmacological and hemodynamic effects becomes crucial to optimizing hemodynamic profile while reducing the potential adverse effects. Given this perspective, it is imperative for cardiologists to possess a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing these agents and to discern optimal strategies for their application across diverse clinical contexts. Thus, we briefly review these agents' pharmacological and hemodynamic properties and their reasonable clinical applications in cardiovascular settings. Critical interpretation of available data and the opportunities for future investigations are also highlighted.

EPidemiology Of Cardiogenic sHock in Scotland (EPOCHS): A multicentre, prospective observational study of the prevalence, management and outcomes of cardiogenic shock in Scotland

Background

Despite high rates of cardiovascular disease in Scotland, the prevalence and outcomes of patients with cardiogenic shock are unknown.

Methods

We undertook a prospective observational cohort study of consecutive patients with cardiogenic shock admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) or coronary care unit at 13 hospitals in Scotland for a 6-month period. Denominator data from the Scottish Intensive Care Society Audit Group were used to estimate ICU prevalence; data for coronary care units were unavailable. We undertook multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with in-hospital mortality.

Results

In total, 247 patients with cardiogenic shock were included. After exclusion of coronary care unit admissions, this comprised 3.0% of all ICU admissions during the study period (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.6%-3.5%). Aetiology was acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in 48%. The commonest vasoactive treatment was noradrenaline (56%) followed by adrenaline (46%) and dobutamine (40%). Mechanical circulatory support was used in 30%. Overall in-hospital mortality was 55%. After multivariable logistic regression, age (odds ratio [OR] 1.04, 95% CI 1.02-1.06), admission lactate (OR 1.10, 95% CI 1.05-1.19), Society for Cardiovascular Angiographic Intervention stage D or E at presentation (OR 2.16, 95% CI 1.10-4.29) and use of adrenaline (OR 2.73, 95% CI 1.40-5.40) were associated with mortality.

Conclusions

In Scotland the prevalence of cardiogenic shock was 3% of all ICU admissions; more than half died prior to discharge. There was significant variation in treatment approaches, particularly with respect to vasoactive support strategy.

Clinical Application of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in the Treatment of Fulminant Myocarditis

Fulminant myocarditis (FM) is a rare but serious clinical syndrome which can be characterized by the rapid deterioration of cardiac function, with cardiogenic shock (CS) and arrhythmic electrical storms being common presentations, often requiring adjunctive support with mechanical circulatory devices. With the development of mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices, there are now more and more studies investigating the application of MCS in FM patients, and the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to treat FM has shown good survival rates. This review elucidates the treatment of FM, and the application and clinical outcomes associated with ECMO intervention.

Early post-resuscitation outcomes in patients receiving norepinephrine versus epinephrine for post-resuscitation shock in a non-trauma emergency department: A parallel-group, open-label, feasibility randomized controlled trial

Background

Post-resuscitation shock is the main cause of early death in post-cardiac arrest patients. To date, no randomized trial compares the efficacy between norepinephrine and epinephrine in post-resuscitation shock patients.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the feasibility of the study protocol, and explore potential differences in efficacy and adverse events between norepinephrine and epinephrine in post-resuscitation shock patients.

Methods

This single-center, parallel-group, open-label, feasibility randomized controlled trial included adult non-traumatic cardiac arrest patients who had post-resuscitation shock within one hour after successful resuscitation. Patients were randomized to receive norepinephrine or epinephrine in a 1:1 ratio. Feasibility outcomes were reported descriptively and narratively. Exploratory analyses were performed to compare the efficacy and adverse events.

Results

A total of 40 patients were equally allocated. Most feasibility goals were achieved. All patients received the allocated intervention with no withdrawals. Ten (50%) patients in the norepinephrine group and 15 (75%) patients in the epinephrine group achieved the target blood pressure by the protocol with a median time of 42 and 39 min, respectively. However, the protocol deviated in 10 (25%) patients and the recruitment rate did not reach the acceptable threshold. The vasopressor dose to achieve the target blood pressure was significantly lower in the norepinephrine group. No significant differences in mortality rates and adverse outcomes were observed in the exploratory analyses.

Conclusion

It is feasible to conduct the definitive trial comparing early post-resuscitation outcomes in patients receiving NE versus EPI for post-resuscitation shock. Some protocol modifications are necessary.

A review of the contemporary use of inotropes in patients with heart failure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The role of inotropes has evolved with its use now expanding over multiple indications including cardiogenic shock, low cardiac output states, bridging therapy to transplant or mechanical support, and palliative care. There remains no consensus as to the recommended inotrope for the failing heart. We aim to provide an overview of the recent literature related to inotrope therapy and its application in patients with advanced heart failure and hemodynamic compromise.

RECENT FINDINGS

In this review, we outline various clinical scenarios that warrant the use of inotrope therapy and the associated recommendations. There remains no mortality benefit with inotrope use. Per American Heart Association recommendations, the choice of the inotropic agent should be guided by parameters such as blood pressure, concurrent arrhythmias, and availability of the medication. Outcome variability remains a heightened concern with inpatient inotropic use in both hemodynamically stable and unstable patients. Finally, inotropic use in palliative care continues to be a recommendation for symptom control and improvement in functional status when the appropriate social support is present for the patient.

SUMMARY

In summary, the ideal inotropic agent remains at the discretion of the clinical provider. Different clinical scenarios may favor one agent over another based on the type of cardiogenic shock and mechanism of action of the inotrope. A future shift towards characterizing inotrope use based on subgroup cardiogenic shock profiles may be seen, however further studies are needed to better understand these phenotypes. Inotrope therapy remains a keystone to bridging to advanced therapies and palliative care.

Renal Congestion in Heart Failure: Insights in Novel Diagnostic Modalities

Heart failure is increasingly prevalent and is estimated to increase its burden in the following years. A well-reported comorbidity of heart failure is renal dysfunction, where predominantly changes in the patient's volume status, tubular necrosis or other mechanical and neurohormonal mechanisms seem to drive this impairment. Currently, there are established biomarkers evaluating the patient's clinical status solely regarding the cardiovascular or renal system. However, as the coexistence of heart and renal failure is common and related to increased mortality and hospitalization for heart failure, it is of major importance to establish novel diagnostic techniques, which could identify patients with or at risk for cardiorenal syndrome and assist in selecting the appropriate management for these patients. Such techniques include biomarkers and imaging. In regards to biomarkers, several peptides and miRNAs indicative of renal or tubular dysfunction seem to properly identify patients with cardiorenal syndrome early on in the course of the disease, while changes in their serum levels can also be helpful in identifying response to diuretic treatment. Current and novel imaging techniques can also identify heart failure patients with early renal insufficiency and assess the volume status and the effect of treatment of each patient. Furthermore, by assessing the renal morphology, these techniques could also help identify those at risk of kidney impairment. This review aims to present all relevant clinical and trial data available in order to provide an up-to-date summary of the modalities available to properly assess cardiorenal syndrome.

Comparative efficacy of Chinese herbal injections in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS): a systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background: Cardiogenic shock (CS) is the primary cause of death in patients suffering acute myocardial infarction. As an emerging and efficacious therapeutic approach, Chinese herbal injections (CHIs) are gaining significant popularity in China. However, the optimal CHIs for treating CS remain uncertain. Method: We searched eight databases from inception to 30 September 2023. Subsequently, we conducted the Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA). Interventions were ranked based on the surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) probability values. To compare the effects of CHIs on two distinct outcomes, a clustering analysis was performed. Furthermore, the quality of the studies was assessed. Results: For the study, we included 43 RCTs, encompassing 2,707 participants. The study evaluated six herbal injections, namely, Shenfu injection (SF), Shengmai injection (SM), Shenmai injection (Sm), Danshen injection (DS), Huangqi injection (HQ), and Xinmailong injection (XML). The analysis findings suggested that Sm (MD = -1.05, 95% CI: -2.10, -0.09) and SF (MD = -0.81, 95% CI: -1.40, -0.25) showed better efficacy compared to Western medicine (WM) alone in reducing in-hospital mortality. The SUCRA values revealed that Sm + WM ranked first in terms of in-hospital mortality, cardiac index (CI), and hourly urine output but second in improving left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and mean arterial pressure (MAP). SF + WM, however, had the greatest impact on raising the clinical effective rate. In MAP, SM + WM came out on top. Moreover, in terms of safety, only 14 studies (31.8%), including five types of CHIs: SF, Sm, SM, HQ, and XML, observed adverse drug reactions. Conclusion: To summarize, this analysis discovered that, in terms of patients suffering from CS, CHIs + WM yielded significantly greater advantages than WM alone. Based on in-hospital mortality and the remaining outcomes, Sm performed excellently among all the involved CHIs. Systematic Review Registration: https:// www.Crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42022347053.

Mechanical circulatory support for cardiogenic shock: a network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and propensity score-matched studies

PURPOSE

Cardiogenic shock is associated with high mortality. In refractory shock, it is unclear if mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices improve survival. We conducted a network meta-analysis to determine which MCS devices confers greatest benefit.

METHODS

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Scopus databases through 27 August 2023 for relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and propensity score-matched studies (PSMs). We conducted frequentist network meta-analysis, investigating mortality (either 30 days or in-hospital) as the primary outcome. We assessed risk of bias (Cochrane risk of bias 2.0 tool/Newcastle-Ottawa Scale) and as sensitivity analysis reconstructed survival data from published survival curves for a one-stage unadjusted individual patient data (IPD) meta-analysis using a stratified Cox model.

RESULTS

We included 38 studies (48,749 patients), mostly reporting on patients with Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Intervention shock stages C-E cardiogenic shock. Compared with no MCS, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation with intra-aortic balloon pump (ECMO-IABP; network odds ratio [OR]: 0.54, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.33-0.86, moderate certainty) was associated with lower mortality. There were no differences in mortality between ECMO, IABP, microaxial ventricular assist device (mVAD), ECMO-mVAD, centrifugal VAD, or mVAD-IABP and no MCS (all very low certainty). Our one-stage IPD survival meta-analysis based on the stratified Cox model found only ECMO-IABP was associated with lower mortality (hazard ratio, HR, 0.55, 95% CI 0.46-0.66).

CONCLUSION

In patients with cardiogenic shock, ECMO-IABP may reduce mortality, while other MCS devices did not reduce mortality. However, this must be interpreted within the context of inter-study heterogeneity and limited certainty of evidence.

The association of vasoactive-inotropic score and surgical patients' outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis examining the relationship between the vasoactive-inotropic score (VIS) and patient outcomes in surgical settings.

METHODS

Two independent reviewers searched PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and CNKI databases from November 2010, when the VIS was first published, to December 2022. Additional studies were identified through hand-searching the reference lists of included studies. Eligible studies were those published in English that evaluated the association between the VIS and short- or long-term patient outcomes in both pediatric and adult surgical patients. Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan Manager version 5.3, and quality assessment followed the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Critical Appraisal Checklists.

RESULTS

A total of 58 studies comprising 29,920 patients were included in the systematic review, 34 of which were eligible for meta-analysis. Early postoperative VIS was found to be associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation (OR 5.20, 95% CI 3.78-7.16), mortality (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.05-1.12), acute kidney injury (AKI) (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.13-1.41), poor outcomes (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.01-1.04), and length of stay (LOS) in the ICU (OR 3.50, 95% CI 2.25-5.44). The optimal cutoff value for the VIS as an outcome predictor varied between studies, ranging from 10 to 30.

CONCLUSION

Elevated early postoperative VIS is associated with various adverse outcomes, including acute kidney injury (AKI), mechanical ventilation duration, mortality, poor outcomes, and length of stay (LOS) in the ICU. Monitoring the VIS upon return to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) could assist medical teams in risk stratification, targeted interventions, and parent counseling.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022359100.

The "CHEOPS" bundle for the management of Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in critically ill patients: an experts' opinion

The impact of left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction (DD) on the outcome of patients with heart failure was established over three decades ago. Nevertheless, the relevance of LVDD for critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit has seen growing interest recently, and LVDD is associated with poor prognosis. Whilst an assessment of LV diastolic function is desirable in critically ill patients, treatment options for LVDD are very limited, and pharmacological possibilities to rapidly optimize diastolic function have not been found yet. Hence, a proactive approach might have a substantial role in improving the outcomes of these patients. Recalling historical Egyptian parallelism suggesting that Doppler echocardiography has been the "Rosetta stone" to decipher the study of LV diastolic function, we developed a potentially useful acronym for physicians at the bedside to optimize the management of critically ill patients with LVDD with the application of the bundle. We summarized the bundle under the acronym of the famous ancient Egyptian pharaoh CHEOPS: Chest Ultrasound, combining information from echocardiography and lung ultrasound; HEmodynamics assessment, with careful evaluation of heart rate and rhythm, as well as afterload and vasoactive drugs; OPtimization of mechanical ventilation and pulmonary circulation, considering the effects of positive end-expiratory pressure on both right and left heart function; Stabilization, with cautious fluid administration and prompt fluid removal whenever judged safe and valuable. Notably, the CHEOPS bundle represents experts' opinion and are not targeted at the initial resuscitation phase but rather for the optimization and subsequent period of critical illness.

Sepsis Management in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit

Septic shock management in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) is challenging due to the complex interaction of pathophysiology between vasodilatory and cardiogenic shock, complicating how to optimally deploy fluid resuscitation, vasopressors, and mechanical circulatory support devices. Because mixed shock portends high mortality and morbidity, familiarity with quality, contemporary clinical evidence surrounding available therapeutic tools is needed to address the resultant wide range of complications that can arise. This review integrates pathophysiology principles and clinical recommendations to provide an organized, topic-based review of the nuanced intricacies of managing sepsis in the CICU.

Cardiogenic Pulmonary Edema in Emergency Medicine

Cardiogenic pulmonary edema (CPE) is characterized by the development of acute respiratory failure associated with the accumulation of fluid in the lung's alveolar spaces due to an elevated cardiac filling pressure. All cardiac diseases, characterized by an increasing pressure in the left side of the heart, can cause CPE. High capillary pressure for an extended period can also cause barrier disruption, which implies increased permeability and fluid transfer into the alveoli, leading to edema and atelectasis. The breakdown of the alveolar-epithelial barrier is a consequence of multiple factors that include dysregulated inflammation, intense leukocyte infiltration, activation of procoagulant processes, cell death, and mechanical stretch. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) can modify or damage ion channels, such as epithelial sodium channels, which alters fluid balance. Some studies claim that these patients may have higher levels of surfactant protein B in the bloodstream. The correct approach to patients with CPE should include a detailed medical history and a physical examination to evaluate signs and symptoms of CPE as well as potential causes. Second-level diagnostic tests, such as pulmonary ultrasound, natriuretic peptide level, chest radiograph, and echocardiogram, should occur in the meantime. The identification of the specific CPE phenotype is essential to set the most appropriate therapy for these patients. Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) should be considered early in the treatment of this disease. Diuretics and vasodilators are used for pulmonary congestion. Hypoperfusion requires treatment with inotropes and occasionally vasopressors. Patients with persistent symptoms and diuretic resistance might benefit from additional approaches (i.e., beta-agonists and pentoxifylline). This paper reviews the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of CPE.

Guidelines for the Neurocritical Care Management of Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

The neurointensive care management of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is one of the most critical components contributing to short-term and long-term patient outcomes. Previous recommendations for the medical management of aSAH comprehensively summarized the evidence based on consensus conference held in 2011. In this report, we provide updated recommendations based on appraisal of the literature using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology.

METHODS

The Population/Intervention/Comparator/Outcome (PICO) questions relevant to the medical management of aSAH were prioritized by consensus from the panel members. The panel used a custom-designed survey instrument to prioritize clinically relevant outcomes specific to each PICO question. To be included, the study design qualifying criteria were as follows: prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective or retrospective observational studies, case-control studies, case series with a sample larger than 20 patients, meta-analyses, restricted to human study participants. Panel members first screened titles and abstracts, and subsequently full text review of selected reports. Data were abstracted in duplicate from reports meeting inclusion criteria. Panelists used the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation Risk of Bias tool for assessment of RCTs and the "Risk of Bias In Nonrandomized Studies - of Interventions" tool for assessment of observational studies. The summary of the evidence for each PICO was presented to the full panel, and then the panel voted on the recommendations.

RESULTS

The initial search retrieved 15,107 unique publications, and 74 were included for data abstraction. Several RCTs were conducted to test pharmacological interventions, and we found that the quality of evidence for nonpharmacological questions was consistently poor. Five PICO questions were supported by strong recommendations, one PICO question was supported by conditional recommendations, and six PICO questions did not have sufficient evidence to provide a recommendation.

CONCLUSIONS

These guidelines provide recommendations for or against interventions proven to be effective, ineffective, or harmful in the medical management of patients with aSAH based on a rigorous review of the available literature. They also serve to highlight gaps in knowledge that should guide future research priorities. Despite improvements in the outcomes of patients with aSAH over time, many important clinical questions remain unanswered.

Impact of a VA-ECMO in Combination with an Extracorporeal Cytokine Hemadsorption System in Critically Ill Patients with Cardiogenic Shock-Design and Rationale of the ECMOsorb Trial

BACKGROUND

Cardiogenic shock and arrest present as critical, life-threatening emergencies characterized by severely compromised tissue perfusion and inadequate oxygen supply. Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) serves as a mechanical support system for patients suffering shock refractory to conventional resuscitation. Despite the utilization of VA-ECMO, clinical deterioration due to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) resulting from the underlying shock and exposure of blood cells to the artificial surfaces of the ECMO circuit may occur. To address this issue, cytokine adsorbers offer a valuable solution by eliminating blood proteins, thereby controlling SIRS and potentially improving hemodynamics. Consequently, a prospective, randomized, blinded clinical trial will be carried out with ECMOsorb.

METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN

ECMOsorb is a single-center, controlled, randomized, triple-blinded trial that will compare the hemodynamic effects of treatment with a VA-ECMO in combination with a cytokine adsorber (CytoSorb®, intervention) to treatment with VA-ECMO only (control) in patients with cardiogenic shock (with or without prior cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)) requiring extracorporeal, hemodynamic support. Fifty-four patients will be randomized in a 1:1 fashion to the intervention or control group over a 36-month period. The primary endpoint of ECMOsorb is the improvement of the Inotropic Score (IS) 72 h after the intervention. Prognostic indicators, including mortality rates, hemodynamic parameters, laboratory findings, echocardiographic assessments, quality of life measurements, and clinical parameters, will serve as secondary outcome measures. The safety evaluation encompasses endpoints such as air embolisms, allergic reactions, peripheral ischemic complications, vascular complications, bleeding incidents, and stroke occurrences.

CONCLUSIONS

The ECMOsorb trial seeks to assess the efficacy of a cytokine adsorber (CytoSorb®; CytoSorbents Europe GmbH, Berlin, Germany) in reducing SIRS and improving hemodynamics in patients with cardiogenic shock who are receiving VA-ECMO. We hypothesize that a reduction in cytokine levels can lead to faster weaning from inotropic and mechanical circulatory support, and ultimately to improved recovery.

Retained Metabolic Flexibility of the Failing Human Heart

BACKGROUND

The failing heart is traditionally described as metabolically inflexible and oxygen starved, causing energetic deficit and contractile dysfunction. Current metabolic modulator therapies aim to increase glucose oxidation to increase oxygen efficiency of adenosine triphosphate production, with mixed results.

METHODS

To investigate metabolic flexibility and oxygen delivery in the failing heart, 20 patients with nonischemic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (left ventricular ejection fraction 34.9±9.1) underwent separate infusions of insulin+glucose infusion (I+G) or Intralipid infusion. We used cardiovascular magnetic resonance to assess cardiac function and measured energetics using phosphorus-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy. To investigate the effects of these infusions on cardiac substrate use, function, and myocardial oxygen uptake (MVo2), invasive arteriovenous sampling and pressure-volume loops were performed (n=9).

RESULTS

At rest, we found that the heart had considerable metabolic flexibility. During I+G, cardiac glucose uptake and oxidation were predominant (70±14% total energy substrate for adenosine triphosphate production versus 17±16% for Intralipid; P=0.002); however, no change in cardiac function was seen relative to basal conditions. In contrast, during Intralipid infusion, cardiac long-chain fatty acid (LCFA) delivery, uptake, LCFA acylcarnitine production, and fatty acid oxidation were all increased (LCFA 73±17% of total substrate versus 19±26% total during I+G; P=0.009). Myocardial energetics were better with Intralipid compared with I+G (phosphocreatine/adenosine triphosphate 1.86±0.25 versus 2.01±0.33; P=0.02), and systolic and diastolic function were improved (LVEF 34.9±9.1 baseline, 33.7±8.2 I+G, 39.9±9.3 Intralipid; P<0.001). During increased cardiac workload, LCFA uptake and oxidation were again increased during both infusions. There was no evidence of systolic dysfunction or lactate efflux at 65% maximal heart rate, suggesting that a metabolic switch to fat did not cause clinically meaningful ischemic metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings show that even in nonischemic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction with severely impaired systolic function, significant cardiac metabolic flexibility is retained, including the ability to alter substrate use to match both arterial supply and changes in workload. Increasing LCFA uptake and oxidation is associated with improved myocardial energetics and contractility. Together, these findings challenge aspects of the rationale underlying existing metabolic therapies for heart failure and suggest that strategies promoting fatty acid oxidation may form the basis for future therapies.

Early Mechanical Circulatory Support for Cardiogenic Shock

Reversal of cardiogenic shock depends on its early recognition and prompt initiation of therapy. Recognition of the clinical and hemodynamic deterioration that precedes cardiogenic shock is a crucial step in its early detection. Treatment of pre-cardiogenic shock is chiefly pharmacologic with intravenous administration of pressor, inotropic, and loop diuretic agents. Failure to reverse the preshock state with pharmacotherapy entails progression to cardiogenic shock and the need for prompt mechanical circulatory support with membrane oxygenation and possibly left ventricular decompression.

The current and future status of inotropes in heart failure management

INTRODUCTION

Heart failure (HF) is a complex syndrome with a wide range of presentations and acuity, ranging from outpatient care to inpatient management due to acute decompensated HF, cardiogenic shock or advanced HF. Frequently, the etiology of a patient's decompensation is diminished cardiac output and peripheral hypoperfusion. Consequently, there is a need for use of inotropes, agents that increase cardiac contractility, optimize hemodynamics and ensure adequate perfusion.

AREAS COVERED

Inotropes are divided into 3 major classes: beta agonists, phosphodiesterase III inhibitors and calcium sensitizers. Additionally, as data from prospective studies accumulates, novel agents are emerging, including omecamtiv mecarbil and istaroxime. The aim of this review is to summarize current data on the optimal use of inotropes and to provide an expert opinion regarding their current and future use in the management of HF.

EXPERT OPINION

The use of inotropes has long been linked to worsening mortality, tachyarrhythmias, increased myocardial oxygen consumption and ischemia. Therefore, individualized and evidence-based treatment plans for patients who require inotropic support are necessary. Also, better quality data on the use of existing inotropes is imperative, while the development of newer and safer agents will lead to more effective management of patients with HF in the future.

Early Recognition and Risk Stratification in Cardiogenic Shock: Well Begun Is Half Done

Cardiogenic shock is a complex syndrome manifesting with distinct phenotypes depending on the severity of the primary cardiac insult and the underlying status. As long as therapeutic interventions fail to divert its unopposed rapid evolution, poor outcomes will continue challenging health care systems. Thus, early recognition in the emergency setting is a priority, in order to avoid delays in appropriate management and to ensure immediate initial stabilization. Since advanced therapeutic strategies and specialized shock centers may provide beneficial support, it seems that directing patients towards the recently described shock network may improve survival rates. A multidisciplinary approach strategy commands the interconnections between the strategic role of the ED in affiliation with cardiac shock centers. This review outlines critical features of early recognition and initial therapeutic management, as well as the utility of diagnostic tools and risk stratification models regarding the facilitation of patient trajectories through the shock network. Further, it proposes the implementation of precise criteria for shock team activation and the establishment of definite exclusion criteria for streaming the right patient to the right place at the right time.

Contemporary Management of Cardiogenic Shock Complicating Acute Myocardial Infarction

Despite an improvement in pharmacological therapies and mechanical reperfusion, the outcome of patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is still suboptimal, especially in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS). The incidence of CS accounts for 3-15% of AMI cases, with mortality rates of 40% to 50%. In contrast to a large number of trials conducted in patients with AMI without CS, there is limited evidence-based scientific knowledge in the CS setting. Therefore, recommendations and actual treatments are often based on registry data. Similarly, knowledge of the available options in terms of temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices is not equally widespread, leading to an underutilisation or even overutilisation in different regions/countries of these treatment options and nonuniformity in the management of CS. The aim of this article is to provide a critical overview of the available literature on the management of CS as a complication of AMI, summarising the most recent evidence on revascularisation strategies, pharmacological treatments and MCS use.

Circulatory shock in adults in emergency department

Circulatory shock is a common condition that carries high morbidity and mortality. This review aims to update the critical steps in managing common types of shock in adult patients admitted to medical emergency and intensive care units. A literature review was performed by searching PubMed, EMBASE Ovid, and Cochrane Library, using the following search items: ("shock" OR "circulatory shock" OR "septic shock" OR "cardiogenic shock") AND ("management" OR "treatment" OR "resuscitation"). The review emphasizes prompt shock identification with tissue hypoperfusion, knowledge of the underlying pathophysiological mechanism, initial fluid resuscitation with balanced crystalloids, norepinephrine as the preferred vasopressor in septic and profound cardiogenic shock, and tailored intervention addressing specific etiologies. Point-of-care ultrasound may help evaluate an undifferentiated shock and determine fluid responsiveness. The approach to septic shock is improving; however, confirmatory studies are required for many existing (e.g., amount of initial fluids and steroids) and emerging (e.g., angiotensin II) therapies. Knowledge gaps and wide variations persist in managing cardiogenic shock that needs urgent addressing to improve outcomes.

Pharmacological treatment of cardiogenic shock - A state of the art review

Cardiogenic shock is a clinical syndrome of impaired tissue perfusion caused by primary cardiac dysfunction and inadequate cardiac output. It represents one of the most lethal clinical conditions in intensive care medicine with mortality >40%. Management of different clinical presentations of cardiogenic shock includes guidance of cardiac preload, afterload, heart rate and contractility by differential pharmacological modulation of volume, systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance and cardiac output besides reversing the triggering cause. Data from large registries and randomized controlled trials on optimal diagnostic guidance as well as choice of pharmacological agents has accrued significantly in recent years. This state-of-the-art review summarizes the basic concepts of cardiogenic shock, the diagnostic work-up and currently available evidence and guideline recommendations on pharmacological treatment of cardiogenic shock.

Minimally invasive apical cannulation and cannula design for short-term mechanical circulatory support devices

BACKGROUND

Refractory cardiogenic shock is still a major clinical challenge with high mortality rates, although several devices can be used to conquer this event. These devices have different advantages and disadvantages originating from their insertion or cannulation method, therefore many complications can occur during their use. The aim of our study was to develop and create prototypes of a novel minimal invasively insertable, transapical cannula for surgical ventricular assist devices, which uniquely incorporates the inflow and outflow routes for the blood of the patient in itself, therefore it enables the use for only one cannula for patients in cardiogenic shock.

METHODS

To define the available space for the planned cannula in the left ventricle and ascending aorta, we analyzed computed tomography scans of 24 heart failure patients, who were indicated to left ventricular assist device therapy. Parallel to these measurements, hydrodynamical calculations were performed to determine the sizes of the cannulas, which were necessary to provide effective cardiac output.

RESULTS

After the designing steps, we produced prototypes of double-lumened, tube-in-tube apically insertable devices for three different patient groups, which included a separated venous and an arterial part using 3D modelling and printing technology. All the created cannulas are able to provide 5 l/min circulatory support.

CONCLUSION

As a result of our research we created a sizing method based on the specific analysis of computed tomography pictures of end stage heart failure patients and a cannula concept, which can provide effective antegrade flow for patients in cardiogenic shock. We believe the improved version of our tool could have a significant therapeutic role in the future after further development based on animal and in vivo tests.

Inotropic support in cardiogenic shock: who leads the battle, milrinone or dobutamine?

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death globally, with acute myocardial infarction being one of the most frequent. One of the complications that can occur after a myocardial infarction is cardiogenic shock. At present, the evidence on the use of inotropic agents for the management of this complication is scarce, and only a few trials have evaluated the efficacy-adverse effects relationship of some agents. Milrinone and Dobutamine are some of the most frequently mentioned drugs that have been studied recently. However, there are still no data that affirm with certainty the supremacy of one over the other. The aim of this review is to synthesize evidence on basic and practical aspects of these agents, allowing us to conclude which might be more useful in current clinical practice, based on the emerging literature.

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Studies suggest that Milrinone has a higher safety and efficacy profile over Dobutamine.

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The evidence on the advantages of using Milrinone vs. Dobutamine is heterogeneous.

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Additional factors need to be considered to reduce the risk of adverse events.

Endothelitis profile in acute heart failure and cardiogenic shock patients: Endocan as a potential novel biomarker and putative therapeutic target

Aims: Inflammation-driven endothelitis seems to be a hallmark of acute heart failure (AHF) and cardiogenic shock (CS). Endocan, a soluble proteoglycan secreted by the activated endothelium, contributes to inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, but has been scarcely explored in human AHF. We aimed to evaluate serum (S-Endocan) and urinary endocan (U-Endocan) profiles in AHF and CS patients and to correlate them with biomarkers/parameters of inflammation, endothelial activation, cardiovascular dysfunction and prognosis.

Methods: Blood and spot urine were collected from patients with AHF (n = 23) or CS (n = 25) at days 1–2 (admission), 3-4 and 5-8 and from controls (blood donors, n = 22) at a single time point. S-Endocan, U-Endocan, serum IL-1β, IL-6, tumour necrosis factor-α (S-TNF-α), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (S-ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (S-VCAM-1) and E-selectin were determined by ELISA or multiplex immunoassays. Serum C-reactive protein (S-CRP), plasma B-type natriuretic peptide (P-BNP) and high-sensitivity troponin I (P-hs-trop I), lactate, urea, creatinine and urinary proteins, as well as prognostic scores (APACHE II, SAPS II) and echocardiographic left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were also evaluated.

Results: Admission S-Endocan was higher in both patient groups, with CS presenting greater values than AHF (AHF and CS vs. Controls, p < 0.001; CS vs. AHF, p < 0.01). Admission U-Endocan was only higher in CS patients (p < 0.01 vs. Controls). At admission, S-VCAM-1, S-IL-6 and S-TNF-α were also higher in both patient groups but there were no differences in S-E-selectin and S-IL-1β among the groups, nor in P-BNP, S-CRP or renal function between AHF and CS. Neither endocan nor other endothelial and inflammatory markers were reduced during hospitalization (p > 0.05). S-Endocan positively correlated with S-VCAM-1, S-IL-6, S-CRP, APACHE II and SAPS II scores and was positively associated with P-BNP in multivariate analyses. Admission S-Endocan raised in line with LVEF impairment (p = 0.008 for linear trend).

Conclusion: Admission endocan significantly increases across AHF spectrum. The lack of reduction in endothelial and inflammatory markers throughout hospitalization suggests a perpetuation of endothelial dysfunction and inflammation. S-Endocan appears to be a biomarker of endothelitis and a putative therapeutic target in AHF and CS, given its association with LVEF impairment and P-BNP and its positive correlation with prognostic scores.

Vasoactive pharmacological management according to SCAI class in patients with acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock

Background

Vasoactive treatment is a cornerstone in treating hypoperfusion in cardiogenic shock following acute myocardial infarction (AMICS). The purpose was to compare the achievement of treatment targets and outcome in relation to vasoactive strategy in AMICS patients stratified according to the Society of Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) shock classification.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of patients with AMICS admitted to cardiac intensive care unit at two tertiary cardiac centers during 2010–2017 with retrieval of real-time hemodynamic data and dosages of vasoactive drugs from intensive care unit databases.

Results

Out of 1,249 AMICS patients classified into SCAI class C, D, and E, mortality increased for each shock stage from 34% to 60%, and 82% (p<0.001). Treatment targets of mean arterial blood pressure > 65mmHg and venous oxygen saturation > 55% were reached in the majority of patients; however, more patients in SCAI class D and E had values below treatment targets within 24 hours (p<0.001) despite higher vasoactive load and increased use of epinephrine for each severity stage (p<0.001). In univariate analysis no significant difference in mortality within SCAI class D and E regarding vasoactive strategy was observed, however in SCAI class C, epinephrine was associated with higher mortality and a significantly higher vasoactive load to reach treatment targets. In multivariate analysis there was no statistically association between individually vasoactive choice within each SCAI class and 30-day mortality.

Conclusion

Hemodynamic treatment targets were achieved in most patients at the expense of increased vasoactive load and more frequent use of epinephrine for each shock severity stage. Mortality was high regardless of vasoactive strategy; only in SCAI class C, epinephrine was associated with a significantly higher mortality, but the signal was not significant in adjusted analysis.

Low-Dose Propranolol Prevents Functional Decline in Catecholamine-Induced Acute Heart Failure in Rats

Severe hyper-catecholaminergic states likely cause heart failure and cardiac fibrosis. While previous studies demonstrated the effects of beta-blockade in experimental models of single-catecholamine excess states, the detailed benefits of beta-blockade in more realistic models of hyper-adrenergic states are less clearly understood. In this study, we examined different therapeutic dosages and the effects of propranolol in rats with hyper-acute catecholamine-induced heart failure, and subsequent cardiopulmonary changes. Rats (n = 41) underwent a 6 h infusion of epinephrine and norepinephrine alone, with additional low-dose (1 mg/kg) or high-dose propranolol (10 mg/kg) at hour 1. Cardiac and pulmonary tissues were examined after 6 h. Catecholamine-only groups had the lowest survival rate. Higher doses of propranolol (15 mg/kg) caused similarly low survival rates and were not further analyzed. All low-dose propranolol rats survived, with a modest survival improvement in the high-dose propranolol groups. Left ventricular (LV) systolic pressure and LV end-diastolic pressure improved maximally with low-dose propranolol. Cardiac immunohistochemistry revealed an LV upregulation of FGF-23 in the catecholamine groups, and this improved in low-dose propranolol groups. These results suggest catecholamine-induced heart failure initiates early pre-fibrotic pathways through FGF-23 upregulation. Low-dose propranolol exerted cardio-preventative effects through FGF-23 downregulation and hemodynamic-parameter improvement in our model of hyper-acute catecholamine-induced heart failure.

Role of medical management of cardiogenic shock in the era of mechanical circulatory support

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The goal of this review is to summarize the current knowledge on the role of medical management of cardiogenic shock in the era of mechanical circulatory support based on important lessons from clinical trials and routine clinical practice, with a focus on providing practical recommendations that can improve contemporary in-hospital management.

RECENT FINDINGS

Despite an increasing number of invasive therapies being used to manage cardiogenic shock, evidence-based treatment regimens known to improve outcomes are limited. Medical management of cardiogenic shock includes pharmacological interventions aimed at optimizing determinants of cardiac output-contractility, preload, afterload, and heart rate. In this regard, inotropes and vasopressors remain cornerstone therapies for the management of cardiogenic shock. Norepinephrine has shown potential vasopressor advantage with compared with dopamine, and although milrinone and dobutamine are both considered appropriate first-line inotropes, there is limited data to guide selection, and a recent randomized clinical trial found no significant differences in the treatment of cardiogenic shock.

SUMMARY

In the absence of an evidence-based management approach to cardiogenic shock, clinical guidelines are based on expert opinion and routine clinical practice patterns. Further studies focusing on clinical outcomes among specific cardiogenic shock phenotypes are needed to better assess the clinical efficacy of these agents.

Norepinephrine use in cardiogenic shock patients is associated with increased 30 day mortality

Aims

Norepinephrine is recommended as a first‐line vasopressor agent in the haemodynamic stabilization of cardiogenic shock. The survival benefit of norepinephrine therapy has not been demonstrated in clinical practice, however. This study aimed to explore the relationship between norepinephrine use and outcomes in cardiogenic shock patients in real‐world conditions.

Methods and results

We conducted a retrospective cohort study based on the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III (MIMIC‐III) database. Cardiogenic shock patients were enrolled and categorized into a norepinephrine group or a non‐norepinephrine group. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to control for confounders. Cox proportional‐hazards models and multivariable logistic regression were used to investigate the relationship between norepinephrine treatment and mortality. A total of 927 eligible patients were included: 552 patients in the norepinephrine group and 375 patients in the non‐norepinephrine group. After PSM, 222 cases from each group were matched using a 1:1 matching algorithm. Thirty day mortality for patients treated with norepinephrine was significantly higher than for those in the non‐norepinephrine group (41% vs. 30%, OR 1.61, 95% CI 1.09–2.39, P = 0.017; HR 1.50, 95% CI 1.09–2.06, P = 0.013). In the multivariable analysis, there was no significant difference between norepinephrine therapy and long‐term (90 day, 180 day, or 1 year) mortality (90 day (OR 1.19, 95% CI 0.82–1.74, P = 0.363), 180 day (OR 1.17, 95% CI 0.80–1.70, P = 0.418), 1 year (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.79–1.66, P = 0.477). Patients in the norepinephrine group required more mechanical ventilation (84% vs. 67%, OR 2.67, 95% CI 1.70–4.25, P < 0.001) and experienced longer ICU stays (median 7 vs. 4 days, OR 7.92, 95% CI 1.40–44.83, P = 0.020) than non‐norepinephrine group.

Conclusions

Cardiogenic shock patients treated with norepinephrine were associated with significantly increased short‐term mortality, while no significant difference was found on long‐term survival rates. Future trials are needed to validate and explore this association.

The CSP (Cardiogenic Shock Prognosis) Score: A Tool for Risk Stratification of Cardiogenic Shock

Background

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is a critical condition and the leading cause of mortality after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Scores that predict mortality have been established, but a patient's clinical course is often nonlinear. Thus, factors present during acute care management may be explored. This study intended to develop a risk-predictive model for patients with CS.

Methods

In this observational study, adult patients who received inotropic support at the Emergency Room (ER) from January 2017 to August 2020 and were admitted to the cardiac care unit (CCU) with a diagnosis of CS were enrolled in this study. Patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, inotropic support for bradycardia, and survival &lt;24 h after ER arrival were excluded. A total of 311 patients were enrolled and categorized into derivation (n = 243) and validation (n = 68) cohorts.

Results

A history of coronary artery disease, multiple inotrope use, ejection fraction &lt;40%, lower hemoglobin concentration, longer cardiopulmonary resuscitation duration, albumin infusion, and renal replacement therapy were identified as independent prognostic factors for in-hospital mortality. The cardiogenic shock prognosis (CSP) score was established as a nomogram and three risk groups were identified: low-risk (score 115, 0% of mortality), medium-risk (score 116–209, 8.75% of mortality), and high-risk (score 210, 66.67% of mortality). The area-under-the-curve (AUC) of the CSP score was 0.941, and the discrimination value in the validation cohort was consistent (AUC = 0.813).

Conclusions

The CSP score represents a risk-predictive model for in-hospital mortality in patients with CS in acute care settings. Patients identified as the high-risk category may have a poor prognosis.

A Clinical Update on Vasoactive Medication in the Management of Cardiogenic Shock

This is a focused review looking at the pharmacological support in cardiogenic shock. There are a plethora of data evaluating vasopressors and inotropes in septic shock, but the data are limited for cardiogenic shock. This review article describes in detail the pathophysiology of cardiogenic shock, the mechanism of action of different vasopressors and inotropes emphasizing their indications and potential side effects. This review article incorporates the currently used specific risk-prediction models in cardiogenic shock as well as integrates data from many trials on the use of vasopressors and inotropes. Lastly, this review seeks to discuss the future direction for vasoactive medications in cardiogenic shock.

Inotropes and vasopressors are associated with increased short-term mortality but not long-term survival in critically ill patients

OBJECTIVE

Limited information is currently available on the impact of vasoactive medications in intensive care (ICU) and long-term outcomes. The main objective of our study was to describe the association between the use of inotropes and/or vasopressors and ICU mortality. Secondary objectives were to evaluate the association between the use of vasoactive drugs and in-hospital as well as 1-year all-cause mortality in ICU survivors.

METHODS

FROG-ICU was a prospective, observational, multi-centre cohort designed to investigate long-term mortality of critically ill adult patients. Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the association between the use of inotropes and/or vasopressors and ICU mortality, as well as in-hospital and 1-year all-cause mortality in a propensity-score matched cohort.

RESULTS

The study included 2087 patients, 939 of whom received inotropes and/or vasopressors during the initial ICU stay. Patients treated with vasoactive medications were older and had a more severe clinical presentation. In a propensity score-matched cohort of 1201 patients, ICU mortality was higher in patients who received vasoactive medications (HR of 1.40 [1.10 - 1.78], p = 0.007). One thousand six hundred thirty-five patients survived the index ICU hospitalisation. There was no significant difference according to the use of inotropes and/or vasopressors in the propensity-score matched cohort on in-hospital mortality (HR of 0.94 [0.60 - 1.49], p = 0.808) as well as one-year all-cause mortality (HR 0.94 [0.71 - 1.24], p = 0.643).

CONCLUSION

Inotropic and/or vasopressor therapy is a strong predictor of in-ICU death. However, the use of inotropes and/or vasopressors during ICU admission was not associated with a worse prognosis after ICU discharge.

Comparison of Clinical Outcomes with Initial Norepinephrine or Epinephrine for Hemodynamic Support After Return of Spontaneous Circulation

BACKGROUND

The optimal vasoactive agent for management of patients with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after cardiac arrest has not yet been identified. The Advanced Cardiac Life Support guidelines recommend initiation of either norepinephrine (NE), epinephrine (EPI), or dopamine (DA) to maintain adequate hemodynamics after ROSC is achieved. The goal of this study is to retrospectively assess the impact of initial vasopressor agent on incidence rate of rearrest, death, or need for additional vasopressor in post-cardiac arrest emergency department (ED) patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review of electronic medical records was conducted at a tertiary care, academic medical center over a 32-month period. Inclusion criteria were any patient who received vasopressors in the ED after achieving ROSC from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, or in ED cardiac arrest. The incidence of the primary outcome was assessed during care within the ED, at 6 h regardless of location (early resuscitation period), and throughout the entire hospitalization. Secondary outcomes included incidence of tachyarrhythmia while on vasopressor, type of additional therapy needed for refractory shock, and functional status at discharge as determined by discharge location (discharged home without assistance, or discharged to long-term care facility, subacute rehabilitation, or assisted living).

RESULTS

A total of 93 patients were included for analysis; 45 received NE, 42 EPI, and six DA. Due to small sample size, DA was excluded from reporting post hoc. Significantly more EPI patients met the primary outcome of refractory hypotension, rearrest, or death in the emergency department (EPI 21/42, 50% vs. NE 10/45, 22.2%; P = 0.008). The incidence was no longer significantly different during the early resuscitation period of 6 h (EPI 30/42, 71.4% vs. NE 25/45, 55.6%; P = 0.182), or during the entire hospitalization (EPI 40/42, 95.2% vs. NE 36/45, 80.0%; P = 0.051). Notably, the EPI group had higher rates of rearrest prior to vasopressor initiation, potentially signaling more severe illness despite other prognostic variables being similarly distributed. In an adjusted regression model, which included adjustment for rearrest prior to vasopressor initiation, the odds of reaching the primary outcome in the ED were 3.94 [95%CI 1.38-12.2] (P = 0.013) times higher in the EPI group compared to NE treated patients. No difference in tachyarrhythmia or functional status at discharge was detected between groups.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest prospective study of initial vasopressors used for hemodynamic support after ROSC may be warranted. Rates of intra-emergency department refractory shock, rearrest, or death were higher among epinephrine treated patients compared to norepinephrine treated patients in this population. However, inability to control for potential confounding variables in retrospective studies limits the findings. These results are hypothesis generating and further study is warranted.

Implications of Myocardial Infarction on Management and Outcome in Cardiogenic Shock

Background The randomized DOREMI (Dobutamine Compared to Milrinone) clinical trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of milrinone and dobutamine in patients with cardiogenic shock. Whether the results remain consistent when stratified by acute myocardial infarction remains unknown. In this substudy, we sought to evaluate differences in clinical management and outcomes of acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (AMICS) versus non-AMICS. Methods and Results Patients in cardiogenic shock (n=192) were randomized 1:1 to dobutamine or milrinone. The primary composite end point in this subgroup analysis was all-cause in-hospital mortality, cardiac arrest, non-fatal myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, the need for mechanical circulatory support, or initiation of renal replacement therapy (RRT) at 30-days. Outcomes were evaluated in patients with (n=65) and without (n=127) AMICS. The primary composite end point was significantly higher in AMICS versus non-AMICS (hazard ratio [HR], 2.21; 95% CI, 1.47-3.30; P=0.0001). The primary end point was driven by increased rates of all-cause mortality, mechanical circulatory support, and RRT. No differences in other secondary outcomes including cardiac arrest or cerebrovascular accident were observed. AMICS remained associated with the primary composite outcome, 30-day mortality, and RRT after adjustment for age, sex, procedural contrast use, multivessel disease, and inotrope type. Conclusions AMI was associated with increased rates of adverse clinical outcomes in cardiogenic shock along with increased rates of mortality and initiation of mechanical circulatory support and RRT. Contrast administration during revascularization likely contributes to increased rates of RRT. Heterogeneity of outcomes in AMICS versus non-AMICS highlights the need to study interventions in specific subgroups of cardiogenic shock. Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03207165.

How Would the Authors Treat Their Own Temporary Left Ventricular Failure With Mechanical Circulatory Support?

In the last 20 years, mechanical circulatory supports (MCS) have overturned completely the outcomes and the clinical recovery of patients with isolated acute left ventricle failure (iALVF). This usually occurs more frequently than right-sided heart failure or biventricular dysfunction, and it mainly is caused by acute myocardial infarction. The primary role of MCS is to restore the tissue metabolism to preserve the vital organs' function but, on the other hand, they also have to relieve the workload stress on the heart. In this way, they allow not only the heart to recover from the acute event, but MCS also can stabilize the patient toward cardiac transplantation. The short-term MCS devices currently used in clinical practice are the intraaortic balloon pump, the Impella (Abiomed, Danvers, MA), and venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO), but the choice of the right and tailored device for each patient, as well as the timing to use it, is actually one of the most debated topics of MCS management.

Inotrope Use and Intensive Care Unit Mortality in Patients With Cardiogenic Shock: An Analysis of a Large Electronic Intensive Care Unit Database

Purpose: To determine whether inotrope administration is associated with increased all-cause mortality in cardiogenic shock (CS) patients and to identify inotropes superior for improving mortality.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed data retrieved from the Philips Electronic ICU (eICU) database, a clinical database of 200,859 patients from over 208 hospitals located throughout the United States. The database was searched for patients admitted with CS to the intensive care unit (ICU) between 2014 and 2015. We evaluated 34,381 CS patients. They were classified into the inotrope and non-inotrope groups based on whether inotropes were administered during hospitalization. The primary endpoint was all-cause hospital mortality.

Findings: In total, 15,021 (43.69%) patients received inotropes during hospitalization. The in-hospital mortality rate was significantly higher in the inotrope group than in the non-inotrope group (2,999 [24.03%] vs. 1,547 [12.40%], adjusted hazard ratio: 2.24; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.09–2.39; p < 0.0001). After propensity score matching according to the cardiac index, 359 patients were included in each group. The risk of ICU (OR 5.65, 95% CI, 3.17–10.08, p < 0.001) and hospital (OR 2.63, 95% CI: 1.75–3.95, p < 0.001) mortality in the inotrope group was significantly higher. In the inotrope group, the administration of norepinephrine ≤0.1 μg/kg/min and dopamine ≤15 μg/kg/min did not increase the risk of hospital mortality, and milrinone administration was associated with a lower mortality risk (odds ratio: 0.559, 95% CI: 0.430–0.727, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, the administration of >0.1 μg/kg/min dobutamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine and dopamine >15 μg/kg/min was associated with a higher risk of hospital mortality.

Conclusions: Inotropes should be used cautiously because they may be associated with a higher risk of mortality in CS patients. Low-dose norepinephrine and milrinone may associated with lower risk of hospital mortality in these patients, and supportive therapies should be considered when high-dose inotropes are administered.

"Assessing the hemodynamic impact of various inotropes combination in patients with cardiogenic shock with Non-ST elevation myocardial infarction -the ANAPHOR study"

BACKGROUND

Various inotropic agents/vasopressors combinations are used in patients of cardiogenic shock. We performed this study to observe hemodynamic effects of various inotrope/vasopressor combinations in patients with NSTEMI cardiogenic shock (CS) at tertiary cardiac centre METHODS AND MATERIALS: Of 3832 NSTEMI, we studied 59 consecutive such patients with CS who hadn't undergone revascularization in the first 24 h in a prospective, open label, observational study. Group 1 comprised of background Dopamine with Noradrenaline titration(N = 38), Group 2 had background Dobutamine and Noradrenaline titration(N = 15) and Group 3 comprised of triple combination of Dopamine, Noradrenaline & Adrenaline(N = 6).

RESULTS

The mean change in hemodynamic parameters between these groups from baseline to 24 h showed no statistical difference. Cardiac output(CO), mean arterial pressure(MAP), central venous pressure(CVP) and cardiac power output(CPO) in group 2 were favorable at 6 and 24 h compared to baseline but mean change was insignificant as compared to others. In group 3, the increase in MAP was significant. IABP use did not change CO, CPO or SVR in any group except lower dosages of Dobutamine (49%) in IABP group. Lower in-hospital mortality in group 2 compared to others (P = 0.004) may be reflective of sicker patients in group 1 and 3.

CONCLUSION

The mean changes in hemodynamic parameters were not significant between all groups. All regimes of inotropes when selected as per clinical indication in CS with ACS resulted in similar hemodynamic effects. The mortality difference may not truly be reflective of regimes rather reflect sicker patients in the higher mortality group.

Evidence and Current Use of Levosimendan in the Treatment of Heart Failure: Filling the Gap

Levosimendan is a distinctive inodilator combing calcium sensitization, phosphodiesterase inhibition and vasodilating properties through the opening of adenosine triphosphate-dependent potassium channels. It was first approved in Sweden in 2000 for the short-term treatment of acutely decompensated severe chronic heart failure when conventional therapy is not sufficient, and in cases where inotropic support is considered appropriate. After more than 20 years, clinical applications have considerably expanded across critical care and emergency medicine, and levosimendan is now under investigation in different cardiac settings (eg, septic shock, pulmonary hypertension) and for non-cardiac applications (eg, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). This narrative review outlines key milestones in levosimendan history, by addressing regulatory issues, pharmacological peculiarities and clinical aspects (efficacy and safety) of a drug that did not receive great attention in the heart failure guidelines. A brief outlook to the ongoing clinical trials is also offered.

Vasopressors independently associated with mortality in acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock

BACKGROUND

Increasing vasopressor dose is associated with increasing mortality in patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock (AMICS). It is unknown whether the use of vasopressors is independently harmful or if their use is secondary to decreasing intrinsic cardiac power output (CPO). Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices enhance CPO. We sought to evaluate the independent impact of increasing vasopressor dose on survival in the National Cardiogenic Shock Initiative (NCSI).

METHODS

The NCSI is a single arm prospective trial evaluating outcomes associated with the use of MCS using Impella in patients with AMICS. Early initiation of MCS placement before percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and rapid de-escalation of vasopressors guided by systematic use of invasive hemodynamic measures led to 70% in-hospital survival for the first 300 patients enrolled from July 2016 to December 2019 in 57 U.S. sites.

RESULTS

Hemodynamic measures were obtained immediately after MCS and PCI. Survival curves were constructed based on CPO and use of vasopressors. For patients with CPO ≤0.6 W, survival was 77.3%, 45.0%, and 35.3% when 0, 1, or ≥ 2 vasopressors were used (p = 0.02). Similarly, for patients with CPO >0.6 W survival was 81.7%, 72.6%, and 56.8%, respectively (p = 0.01). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that increasing vasopressor requirements were independently associated with increasing mortality (p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Increasing vasopressor requirement is associated with increased mortality in AMICS independent of underlying CPO. Methods to decrease the need for vasopressors may enhance survival in AMICS.

Update on acute myocarditis

Acute myocarditis (AM), a recent-onset inflammation of the heart, has heterogeneous clinical presentations, varying from minor symptoms to high-risk cardiac conditions with severe heart failure, refractory arrhythmias, and cardiogenic shock. AM is moving from being a definitive diagnosis based on histological evidence of inflammatory infiltrates on cardiac tissue to a working diagnosis supported by high sensitivity troponin increase in association with specific cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) findings. Though experts still diverge between those advocating for histological definition versus those supporting a mainly clinical definition of myocarditis, in the real-world practice the diagnosis of AM has undoubtedly shifted from being mainly biopsy-based to solely CMRI-based in most of clinical scenarios. It is thus important to clearly define selected settings where EMB is a must, as information derived from histology is essential for an optimal management. As in other medical conditions, a risk-based approach should be promoted in order to identify the most severe AM cases requiring appropriate bundles of care, including early recognition, transfer to tertiary centers, aggressive circulatory supports with inotropes and mechanical devices, histologic confirmation and eventual immunosuppressive therapy. Despite improvements in recognition and treatment of AM, including a broader use of promising mechanical circulatory supports, severe forms of AM are still burdened by dismal outcomes. This review is focused on recent clinical studies and registries that shed new insights on AM. Attention will be paid to contemporary outcomes and predictors of prognosis, the emerging entity of immune checkpoint inhibitors-associated myocarditis, updated CMRI diagnostic criteria, new data on the use of temporary mechanical circulatory supports in fulminant myocarditis. The role of viruses as etiologic agents will be reviewed and a brief update on pediatric AM is also provided. Finally, we summarize a risk-based approach to AM, based on available evidence and clinical experience.

Vasoactive pharmacologic therapy in cardiogenic shock: a critical review

BACKGROUND

Cardiogenic shock (CS) is an acute complex condition leading to morbidity and mortality. Vasoactive medications, such as vasopressors and inotropes are considered the cornerstone of pharmacological treatment of CS to improve end-organ perfusion by increasing cardiac output (CO) and blood pressure (BP), thus preventing multiorgan failure.

OBJECTIVE

A critical review was conducted to analyze the currently available randomized studies of vasoactive agents in CS to determine the indications of each agent and to critically appraise the methodological quality of the studies.

METHODS

PubMed database search was conducted to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on vasoactive therapy in CS. After study selection, the internal validity of the selected studies was critically appraised using the three-item Jadad scale.

RESULTS

Nine studies randomized 2388 patients with a mean age ranged between 62 and 69 years, were identified. Seven of studies investigated CS in the setting of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The studies evaluated the comparisons of norepinephrine (NE) vs. dopamine, epinephrine vs. NE, levosimendan vs. dobutamine, enoximone or placebo, and nitric oxide synthase inhibitors (NOSi) vs. placebo. The mean Jadad score of the nine studies was 3.33, with only three studies of a score of 5.

CONCLUSIONS

The evidence from the studies of vasoactive agents in CS carries uncertainties. The methodological quality between the studies is variable due to the inherent difficulties to conduct a study in CS. Vasopressors and inotropes continue to have a fundamental role given the lack of pharmacological alternatives.

The future of acute and emergency care

Improved outcomes for acutely unwell patients are predicated on early identification of deterioration, accelerating the time to accurate diagnosis of the underlying condition, selection and titration of treatments that target biological phenotypes, and personalised endpoints to achieve optimal benefit yet minimise iatrogenic harm. Technological developments entering routine clinical practice over the next decade will deliver a sea change in patient management. Enhanced point of care diagnostics, more sophisticated physiological and biochemical monitoring with superior analytics and computer-aided support tools will all add considerable artificial intelligence to complement clinical skills. Experts in different fields of emergency and critical care medicine offer their perspectives as to which research developments could make a big difference within the next decade.

The medical treatment of cardiogenic shock: cardiovascular drugs

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To discuss the use of vasopressors and inotropes in cardiogenic shock.

RECENT FINDINGS

The classic form or cardiogenic shock requires administration of inotropic and/or vasopressor agents to try to improve the impaired tissue perfusion. Among vasopressors various alpha-adrenergic agents, vasopressin derivatives and angiotensin can be used. The first-line therapy remains norepinephrine as it is associated with minimal adverse effects and appears to be associated by the best outcome in network meta-analyses. On the contrary, epinephrine is associated with an increased incidence of refractory shock and observational studies suggest an increased risk of death. Vasopressin may be an excellent alternative in tachycardiac patients or in the presence of pulmonary hypertension. Concerning inotropic agents, dobutamine is the first-line agent but levosimendan is an excellent alternative or additional agent in cases not responding to dobutamine. The impact on outcome of inotropic agents remains controversial.

SUMMARY

Recent studies have refined the position of the various vasopressor and inotropic agents. Norepinephrine is recommended as first-line vasopressor agent by various guidelines. Among inotropic agents, selection between the agents should be individualized and based on the hemodynamic response.

Effect of Atrioventricular Dyssynchrony on Impella Hemodynamics: Mechanism and Its Clinical Implications

The physiologic importance of atrial systole and atrioventricular (AV) synchrony in maintaining cardiac performance is well established. However, the role of AV synchrony in maintaining adequate Impella output has not been fully evaluated. Despite the common belief that AV dyssynchrony does not affect Impella output, given that Impella is a continuous flow device, recent reports indicate that AV dyssynchrony can lead to low Impella output in patients with cardiogenic shock complicated by complete heart block. Temporary transvenous pacing without establishing AV synchrony may fail to improve Impella hemodynamics; therefore, understanding the mechanism of low Impella output in AV dyssynchrony and promptly restoring AV synchrony may improve Impella output in such cases and lead to better outcomes.

Optimising clinical trials in acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock: a statement from the 2020 Critical Care Clinical Trialists Workshop

Acute myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (AMICS) is a critical syndrome with a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Current management consists of coronary revascularisation, vasoactive drugs, and circulatory and ventilatory support, which are tailored to patients mainly on the basis of clinicians' experience rather than evidence-based recommendations. For many therapeutic interventions in AMICS, randomised clinical trials have not shown a meaningful survival benefit, and a disproportionately high rate of neutral and negative results has been reported. In this context, an accurate definition of the AMICS syndrome for appropriate patient selection and optimisation of study design are warranted to achieve meaningful results and pave the way for new, evidence-based therapeutic options. In this Position Paper, we provide a statement of priorities and recommendations agreed by a multidisciplinary group of experts at the Critical Care Clinical Trialists Workshop in February, 2020, for the optimisation and harmonisation of clinical trials in AMICS. Implementation of proposed criteria to define the AMICS population-moving beyond a cardio-centric definition to that of a systemic disease-and steps to improve the design of clinical trials could lead to improved outcomes for patients with this life-threatening syndrome.

Inotropic therapies in heart failure and cardiogenic shock: an educational review

Reduced systolic function is central to the pathophysiology and clinical sequelae of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) with reduced ejection fraction and cardiogenic shock. These clinical entities are the final common pathway for marked deterioration of right or left ventricular function and can occur in multiple clinical presentations including severe ADHF, myocardial infarction, post-cardiac surgery, severe pulmonary hypertension, and advanced or end-stage chronic heart failure. Inotropic therapies improve ventricular systolic function and may be divided into three classes on the basis of their mechanism of action (calcitropes, mitotropes, and myotropes). Most currently available therapies for cardiogenic shock are calcitropes which can provide critical haemodynamic support, but also may increase myocardial oxygen demand, ischaemia, arrhythmia, and mortality. Emerging therapies to improve cardiac function such as mitotropes (e.g. perhexiline, SGLT2i) or myotropes (e.g. omecamtiv mecarbil) may provide useful alternatives in the future.